I DO October 2022

nyone who has planned a wedding will know that plans can go awry. Disappointments pop up everywhere, and last minute decisions have to be made. And so it can be for the IDO team.

When an earlier than usual deadline came up we found ourselves having to cover for those whose other previous obligations made it impossible for them be on board. And, just like anxious couples we wondered if it would ever come together.

But, of course, it has, thanks to so many people who gave us all the advice and offers of help that we needed to make it happen. And this is to thank them for their patience and understanding.

Meanwhile, autumn is perhaps one of the loveliest times of the year for a wedding, with cooler days and the warmth and sentiments that the end of summer always brings.

Its cooler days have the warmth and sentiments that the end of summer always brings. Your budget will go further, your choice of venues will be wider and off peak travel dates will send you further on your honeymoon. That and the wedding story info should do it.

It is also a good time to look forward to, and start planning for, a wedding. We can tell how from all the joyful wedding stories you are sending how weddings are now taking place with the same excitement and celebration that we all look for on such an occasion.

And wedding providers are creating more and more original and attractive ways to fill your wedding with extra, different touches and make it everything you could possibly hope it will be.

We hope this issue will fill you with ideas for your perfect way to say IDO.

The IDO team

AUTUMN IS NATURE’S

“Fall in love with moments, the ones that autumn makes just for you..”

SourceUnknown

OWN MOSAIC

Milù by mimi, Nutar Zarb Street, Attard. Tel: +356 21435412 Monday to Friday from 9.00hrs till 12.00hrs & 16.00hrs till 19.00hrs, Saturday from 9.30hrs till 12.00hrs Online gallery: facebook.com/Milubymimi www.milubymimi.com.mt

GREAT EXPECTATIONS

Now you are actually married and it’s time for all the plans and promises you made to yourselves for a perfect marriage to spring into action. But, it might be wise to rethink the optimistic expectations that seemed so simple and real when you were first together. Life, people and circumstances, do not stay the same. Some of the conditions and dynamics of your life together will, inevitably, change. So for any marriage to be happy and successful it is essential that these expectations are adapted, as necessary from anniversary to anniversary.

The high expectations couples have when they start married life mean they sometimes put huge pressure on each other, and themselves. Without meaning to they can up their hopes and efforts unrealistically. And the first obstacle, disagreement or misunderstanding they have will be shattering; especially if they have yet to have a ‘ row to end all rows’ or, worse still, have promised each other that they will never fight!

Setting more realistic expectations is not a compromise on the perfection marriage because, believe it or not, the definition of a perfect marriage will alter a bit as the anniversaries go by. So set all expectations based on simple realities, like maintaining a loving, supportive and respectful relationship.

Which brings to mind the fatal expectation many brides or grooms have that, once married, they can ‘cure’ their partner of any habits they dislike. Make that mistake and it’s a recipe for disaster,

even if it may work for a month or two.

Expect and be willing to work around each other’s likes and dislikes, interests and weird quirky ways, or don’t even think of living happily ever after.

Like everything in life marriage is what you put into it. When there are times that the effort seems to outweigh the results go back to what your current expectations are, as a couple, and decide if their importance risks the quality of your life.

Today it can be too easy to drift along complaining that everything seems to conspire against us. But the, for want of a better word, partnership that is marriage can be the perfect way to meet whatever life throws at us, and fulfill all our expectations.

WHEN ALL THE SPECULATION, PREPARATION AND ANTICIPATION HAS ENDED IN THE MOST WONDERFUL WEDDING YOU EVER DREAMED OF, THE EXPECTATION SETS IN.

Set possible goals and encourage ambitions, but don’t base the success of a married relationship only on the achievement any of these. Expectations that fail for whatever reason should not be allowed to ruin the actual marriage. It’s far better that a marriage compensates for expectations that don’t quite make the grade, and encourages new more achievable ones.

Gold in a glass

If there is one event that cries out for old traditions it’s a wedding. Cocktail bars are a very lively and attractive way of serving drinks at a wedding. They will certainly offer something for everyone. Colourful, decorated cocktails are fun and highly popular, non- alcoholic and veggie and floral cocktails are a regular choice, and many people just love a classic ‘old-fashioned’ cocktail.

Here are some new recipes, and an old favourite to bring back a touch of nostalgia – something else that goes with weddings.

RUM WITH FIGS

1 tbsp fig preserve 59mlrum 1/2lemon 90mlginger beer figs and sprigs of thyme to garnish

METHOD –

Shake the fig preserve, rum, and lemon juice together, then strain into a glass filled with ice. Top up with ginger beer.

WHISKEY AND APPLE

50mlscotch whiskey 1/4lemon

150ml apple juice ice cubes as required slices of apple or cinnamon to garnish

METHOD –

Place ice cubes into a glass and pour the whisky over them. Top up the glass with apple juice and a squeeze of lemon and garnish with apple slices or cinnamon stick.

TEQUILA

SUNRISE

45mltequila 90mlfreshly squeezed orange juice 5mlgrenadine

METHOD –

1. Shake tequila and orange juice well with crushed ice. 2. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass. 3. Add grenadine and stir gently, for no longer than is necessary to produce layers of oranges and reds. Garnish with a maraschino cherry (optional).

ALL ABOUT LOVE

Coliseum Arcades, Zachary Street, Valletta. Tel: 2122 4234 WWW.WEDDINGBELLSMALTA.COM

Photography Matthew B Spiteri Make up Make-up by Miriam Bridal dresses WeddingBells Headbands & Jewellery Zsa Zsa Bouquets Flowers by Anna Zammit

A stunning full lace dress by Justin Alexander, New York, with off the shoulder sleeves in ivory nude, from WeddingBells, worn with a rose gold and zircon head band and matching jewellery from ZSAZSA Valletta l Bouquet by Flowers by Anna Zammit.

This beautiful A-line dress, by Milo Nova has a deep plunge neckline and beaded spaghetti straps. A skirt of sparkling lace overlays a tulle skirt which has hoops for extra volume, from WeddingBells. Matching veil held in place with delicate white gold and zircon coronet, bracelet, ear rings and pendent, available from ZsaZsa l Bouquet by Flowers by Anna Zammit.

Perfect for an after party or to shine at a small, family wedding this jumpsuit features palazzo trousers and a sparkle tulle bodice with a low neckline, and leg of mutton sleeves that echo the 1980s, from WEDDINGBELLS and is worn with a headband of white gold, zircon and pearls available from Zsa Zsa.

SLIEMA - VALLETTA - PAVI - THE DUKE GOZO www.monsoonaccessorize.com.mt

BRIDAL DRESSES

WeddingBells’ dresses and veils, positively glowed in the clear morning sun.

MAKE UP

Make-up artist Miriam used a subtle touch to create a perfect look for an autumn bride.

THE THEME

Autumn weddings, bathed in calm and quiet reflections.

FLOWERS

Gorgeous

bouquets

by Flowers By Anna Zammit showed touches of autumn’s rich colours.

MODEL

Our model Bevis May shone in this season’s beautiful gowns.

Behind the scenes ON

OUR SHOOT

ACCESSORIES

Head bands and jewellery from Zsa Zsa complimented each outfit.

THE LOCATION

We found the perfect location for this time of year in Villa Arrigo’s wonderfully designed gardens.

Meet our

model

THE BRIDES ON OUR POPULAR BRIDAL FASHION PAGES PLAY A VERY IMPORTANT PART IN EACH ISSUE OF IDO. SO WE THINK THEY DESERVE A PAGE TO SHARE SOME OF THEIR THOUGHTS AND FEELINGS ABOUT THIS AND THAT.

For this issue our model is BEVIS MAY GRIMA, and this is the first time she has appeared in IDO.

Where do you live?

I live in Santa Venera.

Where else you would like to live and why?

I would like to live somewhere abroad like Australia, because I have family there, or Switzerland, or Finland for the beautiful scenery and pace of life.

What is the happiest job or career you could have? A fashion designer, specialising in Street Fashion.

How do you like to relax?

Spending some time alone, in a peaceful environment,

Who are the people, and/or pets who make you happiest, for whatever reasons?

Obviously, my children and mother as they are big part of me. They are the ones I don’t imagine myself living without.

What could the world without, and what does it need more of?

The world could do more without greed and control and needs more love, peace and unity.

How do you feel about social media and what do you mostly use it for?

Social media is good, if used with good intentions it can connect you with people and give you many opportunities. I mostly use it for communicating with family and friends, and to promote my modelling.

YOUR WEDDING HAIRSTYLE

ADDED TO ALL THE CHOICES WE HAVE TO MAKE FOR OUR WEDDINGS IS THE CURRENT CONCERN WE ALL SHOULD HAVE FOR THE ENVIRONMENT. IT IS OBVIOUS THAT RISING COSTS EVERYWHERE WILL INFLUENCE HOW WE LOOK AT WAYS TO CELEBRATE IN AS ECONOMICALLY AND ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY WAY AS POSSIBLE.

AND, BELIEVE IT OR NOT, THIS CAN EVEN AFFECT HOW YOU CHOOSE YOUR WEDDING HAIR STYLE. SO, NATURALLY WE TURNED TO AWARDWINNING HAIRSTYLIST CHRIS, AT MAF HAIRDRESSING, OF ST VENERA & FGURA AND THE STYLIST FOR OUR I DO FASHION SHOOTS, FOR SOME ADVICE.

For some simple, natural ways for a bride to include a new, different look for her hair, on her wedding day, he suggests starting with the basics and to see how they will work with her budget. Also, people are choosing reused material for their veils and tiaras, like something from their parents’ wedding which has sentimental value and is already available. Or one could use fresh flowers which are for sure biodegradable.

He is also seeing brides keeping their dress and using it for when, maybe, they have a daughter either for the christening and or her first Holy Communion.

For healthy hair that’s easy to manage in the months leading up to a wedding, and on honeymoon, care should always be as natural and gentle as possible.

Chris advises going for naturally derived products which are sulphate-free and as far as possible not tested on animals. As hairdressers we are trying to reduce the use of aerosol cans, especially on wedding hair and using pump action hair sprays to reduce the effect on the ozone.

The advantage of using such products is that they are less harsh on the hair and on the environment. And naturally derived hair products won’t weigh down the hair, which makes easier to upstyle.

And what must a bride consider if she is looking for ‘special-day’ hair decorations or colour changes and highlights that won’t harm her hair or the environment?

Think ahead. Start planning the look you want for your hair before with your hairstylist. See where you want to be on the wedding day. Going lighter might take some time, especially if we’re using naturally derived products, and if we want to keep hair healthy. If you’re going darker on the wedding day, opt to use a gloss tone at an earlier stage to see how it looks, so it won’t be difficult to change back. Enhance natural hair colours by using organic henna and organic toners which are derived from plant nectars.

A venue for all seasons

VILLA ARRIGO

IN THE BEGINNING

When an elegant, colonial style villa, constructed by Cesare Garsin was built, in 1887, it stood alone on the outskirts of Naxxar, surrounded by countryside, looking away over to the sea. It stood in the middle of a beautiful garden and its interiors displayed the elegance of the age,and befitted the Garsin family,who lived in it for many generations.In the 20th century,1986 to be exact, it was,acquired by the late Mr Ralph Arrigoand became known as Villa Arrigo. San Pawl tat-Targa has grown up nearby but the villa still stands out in its verdant landscape. It has lost none of its presence. Its magnificent hallways and rooms have kept their rare combination of both elegance and great charm. The garden spreads around revealing terraces, planted areas, lawns, a picturesque avenue and secret hideaways, all accented to create something quite enchanting. Which is why now, in the 21st century Villa Arrigo has held its position as one of the most popular venues for weddings for over three decades.

THROUGH TO TODAY

The other reason Villa Arrigo continues to be such an obvious choice for so many couples is its almost unique way of guiding brides and grooms, and often their family members,through every process they need to have their dream wedding.

Everything can be found for whatever theme you can think of. The villa is licensed for marriage ceremoniesand any type of event. Osborne Caterers have delicious, contemporary, chic food for custom-made menus. There is provision for all forms of entertainment. A huge conservatory makes a welcoming reception area throughout the year. And there is car parking space.

However you have dreamed your wedding would be. Whatever you have longed for, Villa Arrigo’s young and very professional staff will be completely dedicated to making sure that is exactly what you will have.

The perfect wedding venue is one where everything you need is on hand, where the surroundings are special, no request is too extreme and no detail ever overlooked.

Villa Arrigo ticks all these boxes.

BE A BEAUTIFUL BRIDE

BE A BEAUTIFUL BRIDE

There is a saying that ‘All brides are beautiful’, andit may well be true. But everyone, even a bride,needs their confidence boosted or confirmed, especially on one of the most important days of their lives. This is where make-up artists, hairdressers and all the specialised consultants of a spa and hair salon come in.

They can expertly apply and style your make-up and hairstyle to compliment your complexion and your dress and jewellery and to last all day from the marriage ceremony to the after party, while also looking flattering and naturalin the photos and wedding video.

But it’s not just hair and make-up. A bride needs a perfect nail bar, attention to her lashes and brows, facials, massages and,if she feels like it, waxing, Botox, Dermal Fillers and other services.And to really benefit from the pampering and feel good factor of all these treatments they need to be in the same place – a comfortable, attractive salon and spa where you can truly relax and enjoy everything that is on offer. Like Amis Day Spa and Hair Salon, in Valletta, for example. Careful planning, with your bridal party, or family members could see you taking advantage of many their specially designed packages to enjoying a fun makeover together. For the ultimate wedding party experiencethink of delicious local platters and Prosecco as an accompaniment to yourservices, a really original way to hold a bridal shower or hen party.

One of these special packages would also make a welcome and thoughtful present from a bride to her bridesmaids, maid of honour, mother, or mother-inlaw, as a thank you for their support, a bonding session, or simply to say ‘I love you’.

There is no nicer way to build up to your wedding day than by taking the time to indulge in a little luxury, especially when it makes you look and feel good as well.

THE PERFECT PACKAGE

Here are some of the treats Amis has for brides and wedding parties

Bridal Hair Up-style including Wash and Blow Dry

Bridal Make-Up Trial

Bridal Party Up-style including Wash and Blow

Bridal Party Make-Up (between 2 to 5 persons)

Wedding Party Guests Blow Dry (*short / mid length / long hair )

Wedding Party Guests Curls with Ceramic

Wedding Party Guests Up-style

Wedding Party Guests Make-up

Cold cuts platterincluding glass of Prosecco for bride and bridalparty (up to six persons including bride) FREE.

indulge in a head-to-toe package such as the Pamper Package or Soothing Package, prices start at €60 per person.

A thousand words

And there are many ways to keep all the sights, sounds and sentiments of your celebrations. With access to stills, videos and the whole ceremony on film, family and friends who cannot attend will be a part of it all.

And you will have the memories of a lifetime to keep. So, how important it is to have a photographer whose experience and genuine passion for creativity, professionalism and presentation means he can design and compile a complete visual wedding record from engagement to wedding album; making it totally personal to you and without you having to wait for months to enjoy your films and images.

With 10 years in the business, expanding and acquiring top of the range equipment, Siemenjov Galdes or Simi, as he is mostly known, now averages 35-40 weddings a year. Go to him with any dream ideas for your own wedding coverage and he will make them come true. His

aim is to produce the finest quality photos and videos of a wedding and to ensure that every couple has the unique one-to-one collaboration they need to plan every aspect of their wedding photography.

His production values are exceptional. Lighting, sound and editing, all so vital for a truly attractive, accurate way of recording images of a wedding, are magical.

Each wedding movie has its own short teaser, with the full length feature for those romantic anniversary nights in years to come. Photo albums, beautifully mounted, will also make an original gift for your witnesses or someone special in your life.

And if you have an eye-catching and totally original wedding guest book mind, you are in for a real treat.

Of course, you’ll want to see the photos as quickly as possible, so it’s just brilliant that Simi also ensures that, come rain or shine, couples get their photos within just two weeks.

Momentous occasions need to be captured. Every tiny detail of your wedding is precious, and should be treasured forever. And the only way to do this perfectly is through the power of the lens and film.

SEE FOR YOURSELVES

You can get a feel for all this during The Siemenjov Galdes Weddings Open Week 2022.

This is being held because Siemenjov wants couples to have an opportunity to meet up with him in person, in his own studio environment, discuss their hopes and ideas, make plans, ask for a quote and see examples of wedding photography and film, including digital, printed and audio visual work, first hand.

Members of Siemenjov’s team and collaborators will be joining him, giving couples the opportunity to meet with them and discuss their brands.

They include a talented female singer/pianist, who performs live during wedding ceremonies, either solo or with a male singer, a violinist and a harpist, BoothMalta, who now offer a service up to five hours with a booth attendant, digital online gallery, unlimited prints, a guestbook and all the fun the booth provides; established florist with years of experience in the field, to help couples fulfill all their wishes and Antonella Galdes Deguara, of Vanity Lounge Hair & Beauty Salon, who has over 16 years of experience including many on location weddings, and will be offering a discount on bridal hair and make-up.

In total, during the open week, couples booking photography and filming will have the opportunity to get in excess of €700 worth of discounts.

Go and focus on some of the most important items you will need, in peace and quiet, within a relevant space, with people who totally know what they are doing and only want to deliver whatever you ask for…. And they do say a camera can perform miracles.

THE MUSICIAN

WE CAN NEVER OVERLOOK THE IMPORTANCE OF MUSIC DURING A WEDDING CEREMONY AND RECEPTION SO I DOSPOKE TO GUITARIST WAYNE CAMILLERI ABOUT HOW HE ENJOYS PLAYING AT WEDDINGS.

Depending on what a couple wants Wayne has played solo, duo instrumentals during sitdown weddings and as part of a trio band for a party after the first dance, with various established singers.

As both a musician and an events organiser, Wayne knows the importance of a couple having a good idea of the location and facilities at their wedding venue and church before finalising their choice of music, includingthe stage size and set-up, sound system,etc., because everything has to be discussed beforehand.

His genuine advice regarding location is to check the time limit at the venue. At some you can carry on till late, but some have permits only to 11pm. “Remember, we don’t break rules”, he says. No band wants to be left in the awkward situation of stopping or being fined.

As wedding guests represent several generations. Wayne allows for this by having a large assortment of songs in different styles in his repertoire, along with able musicians who play them well. Basically, this all comes from learning how to do it right and years of playing on a regular basis.

He adds that you also need a singer who can read what the guests want, and make the right choices on the fly and, above all is confident and can communicate skilfully with the band and sing whatever is decided.

Wayne says “Some songs just work in any situation...like Prince’s Kiss, Bob Marley’s No Woman No Cry also comes to mind, ironically. Inevitably the chorus to Sweet Caroline seems to mysteriously always make everybody happy. And that’s the main objective for us, lol.”

The couple’s preferences, first dance choice, songs they wish to be played during party time, and songs that are not to be played,are all discussed beforehand. “Some people hate Sweet Caroline, he says, adding “We also discuss the choice of the main singer for their wedding. Thankfully I work with most singers here”.

And while Wayne continually performs on TV and at concerts, wherever they take him, would he also be open to joining in on the pre wedding celebrations by organising and performing at hen or stag events, or pre wedding get togethers? “Absolutely. It’s all about creating a good time with music, from a full blast rock party to background acoustic duo. It’s all about creating a great memorable night.”

Wayne says he has to too many personal favourite musicians to mention but he listens to an insane amount of music daily, from Chill out to 80s pop, to heavy metal. “I have to say that I think ABBA are in the top three favourite artists ever. I’m still a big fan of the 80s’ pop bands like Aplhaville, Simple Minds, Duran Duran and especially Depêche Mode,

who have evolved beautifully over the years and remained totally relevant to this day and age. As a guitarist I have idolised Slash, Gary Moore, Joe Satriani for many years. I still do. I’m just a fan of good music and I still feel blessed every day that I do this for a living, I play music. Life is good.”

Finally has Wayne ever composed a song for a couple to play or for their first dance? “Not exactly, but close enough I guess. The groom wrote a song for his bride and needed some guidance and mentoring to sing it at his wedding and play guitar, which is not an easy feat. Thankfully it turned out to be a special moment and his efforts were appreciated”, he replied, showing clearly that with all his experience and expertise he knows exactly the power music has as “the food of love.”

SIMPLE & PERSONAL

Photography | Kris Micallef & Carlton Aguis

THE COUPLE

Valentina & Carlo

30 July 2022

Valentina Rossi, 28, a radio host, and Carlo Gerada, 31, a Dj were married at Villa Bighi.

CRUISING TO THE FUTURE

Valentina and Carlo had been together for around 10 years and they both were thinking about getting married. Then Carlo proposed,on their first cruise together. “We love to eat andrelax so it was the perfect setting for us,” said Valentina. They didn’t really have a wedding theme, wanting their wedding to reflect them just as they are, with their love of trying new thingsand eating weird food. “So we had cupcakes with insects on them. Basically it was filled with things we like“, they confirmed.

They knew how they wanted their wedding invitations so they just went withthe design and got them printed. For souvenirstheir guestsreceived small bottles of champagneso they could remember the night with a pop of celebration in a bottle. »

» A TIMELESS HARBOUR SETTING

After looking at a couple of venues Valentina and Carlo instantly fell in love with Villa Bighi for its views and versatility. So they held their wedding ceremony and reception there.

They both really looked forward to the wedding because they had totally personalised it. The wedding ceremony decorations, including a red carpet by A & S, were kept simple. “We wanted the mainfocus to be on us exchanging vows”, they explained.

“We chose personal songs performed by Kevin &amp, and Brook, we also optedfor personal readings from our loved ones,and we both wrote our own weddingvows“, they added.

For her dress Valentina went to Charles and Ron for a simple, classic and timeless lookwith beading which alsocomplimented her custom-made headpiece. Carlonever reallyliked the idea of wearing a tie or a bow tie so theypicked a more casual,open shirt look,from Bortex,keeping the colour of the suit a classic navy blue. Valentina left her bouquet in the hands of The Malta Florist. “They knew our colour scheme andthey knew I didn’t like anything over the top and they delivered just what I had inmind“, she confirmed. The couple exchanged rings which were both very different. Carlo’s was asimple,matte white gold ring, and Valentina went for an all-round sparkly ring, both chosen from Clement Jewellers. »

» A RECEPTION WITH A DIFFERENCE

For the reception decor A & S helped the couple planand achieve some of the crazy ideas they had in mind, with Confetti Crew helping too.Again The Malta Florist took care ofall the floral decorations on the day.

The catering, in the hands of Mannarinu, had guests mentioning how great it was, even well after the wedding. Valentina and Carlo had acouple of meetings before the wedding to finalise the menu and appreciated Mannarinu’s creativity and flexibility, especially when it came to their wedding cake.Because they both love cheese their cake was made from of different types of cheese wheels, and displayed on a cheese table.They also had aburger bar and insect station. »

RECEPTION HIGHLIGHTS AND SPECIAL MENTIONS

“Our first dance was really fun because we didn’t complicate things and wanted toenjoy it and, thanks to our dance instructor,Jes,we truly enjoyed every second of it”, the couple said. Extra fun was added by Rona Briffa creating a live painting on the spot.

Other entertainment included special performances by FabrizioFaniello, Aidan and Kurt Calleja.Instead of fireworks, they opted for the next best thing, il-Kapxi and everyoneenjoyed that special moment.

Valentina had several,certain people who she really wanted to be part of her special day. Natasha Polidano, who was part of her earlymodelling career,and Gabrielle Zammit Grungo who she has been working with for almost 10 years. For her hair she chose her current hair stylist Karl Brincau,who also handled her bridal team. Photos were taken care of Kris Micallef & Carlton Agius whilethe video was shot by Ders Wedding Films.

“We wanted the main focus to be on us exchanging vows”.

–Valentina & Carlo

»

ALL EXPECTATIONS EXCEEDED

Photography | Shane P. Watts

THE COUPLE

Jessica & Dale 25 June 2022

Jessica Laferla, 27, an events planner, and Dale Camille 29, a teacher/nutritionist and personal trainer, were married in the Lady of Victory church, Valletta.

THE WHEEL OF LOVE

Jessica and Dale always dreamt of having a big, lavish wedding.After being together for six years they took an impromptu trip to Barcelona, for a couple of days, in December 2019. There Dale proposed, on a Ferris wheel,on Mount Tibidabo. “I was instantly excited about the next step into our future together and planning our dream wedding”, Jessica remembers.

They went for a boho chic theme, with lots of pampas,whites, creams and blush-pink colours. Jessica tried to design and organise most things herself to give everything a personal touch. She elevated a plain, chic invitation design, found online, with emerald, green envelopes and a sticker seal depicting the couple‘s initials in gold foil. Their Mass booklets were in the same design.»

THE MOST BEAUTIFUL CHURCH

» After losing their first choice of church dueto works being carried out in summer, the couple was blessed with the availability the beautiful church of Our Lady of Victory. “It was the perfect size, and what stole our hearts was the interior of the Church, that beautiful ceiling”, the couple confirmed.

Jessica travelled, along with her father, sister and maid of honour, in a beautiful white convertible princess car from Elite Transport. “At first I was quite worried being that the car was a convertible and it was quite a hot day, but surprisingly it was a lovely drive”, she said.

It was so nice walking down the aisle in a church filled with all our family and friends. Our florist Alistair Flora Design made our vision a reality, all the flowers really complemented the church. We had Raquela Dalli Gonzi singing,along with a pianist and cellist. They were exceptional. Raquela’s voice is one of a kind and they made the experience so emotional with their music.Father Brendan put together a lovely ceremony by making it so personal and also added some humour which we loved”, the couple remembered. “When I started reading my vows, I got very emotional and started crying which I really didn’t expect”, Jessica added. »

» Jessica wentto Ivory and Co for her dress.After trying on only three dresses she found the perfect one

“Our mothers, my grandmother and maid of honour fell in love with the dress as soon as I tried it on. It exceeded my expectations in every way, I just wanted to take it home and wear it every day”, she confirmed.

To keep her dress as the main focus Jessica wore classic Chanel diamond earrings and her mother’s solitairediamond necklace, and carrieda bouquet of white peonies which she feltreally completed her look.

Her bridesmaids wore pink maxi dresses, from Monsoon, in a crossed-halter neckstyle, which suited each of them nicely, and the flower girls all looked so pretty in white tutu dresses.

Dale went for a classic look and wore a black tux with a white bow tie and waistcoat, whilst his groomsmen wore black tuxes with black bow ties and waistcoats, all from Bortex.

The couple exchanged rings from family friends Carlo and Sergio, Zampa ,whose help and experience in jewellery design everything so straight- forward.

A VENUE OF SHEER BEAUTY

Having the wedding reception at The Sheer Bastion was especially sentimental for Jessica, who has been the sales manager there since it opened. “I planned our wedding from the catering side too, making it even more tailor- made. We had Nexos lighting set up a beautiful ceiling of fairy lights and a stunning stage for our band. Save The Date set up decorations around the venue, and Alistair set up our flower arrangements and our dreamy floral hoop backdrop. They made the place look incredible.”

As the couple are obsessed with tacos, they had a taco station and as part of the Hammett’s group there is a South American restaurant so you can only imagine how good the tacos were.»

» “We opted for a simple wedding cake design with some cotton flowers, pampas and gold leaf. Mannarinu did an excellent job with the cake. Apart from the look of the cake, the flavours were delicious”, Jessica explained.

Drinks were also by Sheer Bastions, offering a gin bar, cocktail bar and a slush bar.

Stylish Photobooth was charge of the photobooth for the day, and now the couple have a lovely guest book with everyone’s photos and messages to cherish.

For entertainment, the 16-piece band Brass House Unit really made the night. Kevin went out of his way to make sure they had the best night of their lives.

Dale and Jessica had choreographed and started practising their first dance weeks before. Jessica was surprised how they managed to get through it, with all the twists, turns and jumps, and pleased that it turned out really well.

In fact, everyone was dancing throughout. It was difficult to stop with DJ Thomas Cruz playing with a saxophonist,followed by Owen Leuellen and later on DJ Nikki VP to close the night. »

» Jessica and Dale are forever grateful for their familieswho helpedthemwith the planning and chores of the wedding, making it easier for them to concentrate on the important details. Gabrielle Zammit Grungo our make-up artist, hairdressers Katia Azzopardi and Dale’s aunt Marcelle Genovese made us all look stunning. I had help from Josef Gauci from Ivory and Co. Malcolm Debono and Shane P. Watts managed to capture our day beautifully. It’s so nice to have photos and a video to look back at whenever we’d want to relive the day.

SPECIAL HIGHLIGHTS

Quite a few things stood out for the couple including walking out of the church and be surprised with their two dogs which made their day so much more memorable. And Jessica’s great uncle Arnold, who is a marvellous artist, gifting themsuch a sentimental present of a beautiful painting of Our Lady of Victory church where they got married.Being surrounded and supported by all our friends and family was so heart-warming. “Seeing everyone having such a good time all night long was so fulfilling. I had one drink that night, but I was so full of adrenaline it was as though I drank all night long. Everything came together so well, our expectations were surely exceeded”, Jessica concluded.

“It was such a perfect day; we wouldn’t have changed a thing.” –Jessica & Dale

COUPLE

Dorian & Paul THE

16 July 2022

ISLAND INSPIRATIONS

A HOLIDAY PROPOSAL

As Dorian and Paul’s relatonship progressed naturally over two years, they decided to get married. “You feel when a person is your Mr Right. We both had to make difficult decisions to get this started and between our age and past experiences, including coming out, marriage was immediately on our books” they explained.

So, in 2016 on Boxing Day on a Christmas holiday in the Maldives, Paul took Dorian, on a private boat to a deserted island, and proposed... in sandals and beachwear. He also also played the song That’s Why I Love You, by Ira Losco, which the couple then chose for their first dance at their wedding.

Another island, Sicily, inspired their wedding theme. Having visited the island various times for wine, food and art, it was a natural choice. From there they had custom-made Testa Di Moro and ceramic vases, and ceramic tiles to use as the base for the Wedding Cake. Using predominantly blue and yellow colours and plenty of lemons, their theme was complete. »

Photography | Tonio Lombardi

Dorian Cassar, 41, a radio & TV presenter and boutique hotel owner, and Paul Camilleri, 41, a lecturerand photographer, were married at Meridiana Wine Estates, Ta’ Qali.

» And, wisely, few days before the wedding, the couple organised an Oyster and Champagne Party at their Lodge Boutique Hotel for everyone involved in the wedding. This served also as a briefing meeting to go over all the details of the wedding.

SIMPLE, STYLISH AND PERSONAL

The couple wanted a simple yet very personal ceremony, so they asked their friend Noel Formosa, who is also the mayor of San Lawrenz in Gozo to hold it.. They wrote the script, to make it as intimate and personal as possible and they each made a short speech. As fans of Italian singers Marco Mengoni and Emma Marrone, and to keep with the theme of the wedding, the song Ti Ho Voluto Bene Veramante, by Mengoni was played during the entrance and Amami, by Emma Marrone, just after the wedding vows. And they exchanged rings from Bvlgari, Milano.

They wore suits tailored for them for them by Luke Azzopardi, who also also adapted Sean’s initial artwork for theirinvitations as the design for the fabric. This was also used for their bow ties and those of the ushers, shorts for Dan Dorian’s nephew, who was their ringbearer, and scarves for their four female witnesses.

A SPLENDID RECEPTION

Completeing their Sicilian theme wedding, the couple wanted a big open space to host around 600 guests and which they could set up as they wanted. And it needed to be something unique and different, which is not usually associated with weddings.

The Meridiana Wine Estate came to mind, it ticked all their boxes. They both love wine, Dorian is also a sommelier and has hosted a wine show on TV, so the venue was made for them.

Designer Sean Cini, The Creative Guru, was given the task of creating something original. And, as the venue only holds small weddings, the ceremony was held on the terrace, decorated with the Sicilian ceramics and vases, which were filled with fresh flowers and yellow lemons by Gozitan florist George Sacco Xerri.

And the reception was held in the carpark, where, the gravel was covered with synthetic turf provided by Audio Systems Ltd. The same company was also responsible for the lighting, stage and audio.

Paul and Dorian chose AX Caterers and had several meetings with the pastry chef before finalising on the size and flavour for the cake, which was lemon to go with their theme, and sat on a splendid hexagon wooden stand made by carpenter Maurice Bugeja to hold the original ceramic tiles from Sicily.

» From just after the ceremony guests enjoyed a positive concert from singers and musicians including Kevin Paul, Amber, Aidan, Janvil and Ira Losco, who sang their first dance song live. And as the special surprise of the night. Glen Vella performed his song Harsa Biss (Muzika Muzika winner 2021), and halfway through, Dorian sang the remainder of the song to everyone’s surprise. Dorian took singing lessons with Glen and has since recorded the song featuring Glen Vella, at Philip Vella’s studio, and it was also then aired on the radio.

The afterparty was hosted by JD Patrick and at the very end there was a mix of the best Eurovision hits from Luke Borg.

SO MANY THANK YOUS

For their immense help with their wedding day Dorian and Paul want to thank Desiree Spiteri and Claudia Diacono from Tunin’ Entertainment (who took care of all the complicated logistics of the venue and they were responsible with overseeing the smooth running of the wedding,) hairdresser friend Josmar Giordimania and makeup artist Karl Zammit Nash. Grooms Matthew Camilleri, Dr Justin Ellul Desira, Etienne Farrugia and Clayton Saliba, and witnesses Alexia Camilleri, Anabel Vella, Enna Camilleri and Bernice Bugeja. »

» And, after all the wonderful celebrations, here comes the “aahh factor”, from the couple themselves:

“Instead of souvenirs, we decided to give a donation to CLAWS Cat Sanctuary. A few months before the wedding, we adopted Leo, one of our three furry babies, from this sanctuary and we realised how much effort and money these people put out into saving cats. So as cat lovers, we both decided to buy them cat food to ease their financial burden.

Luckily, our story had very good impact on social media, which hopefully helped to increase visibility of these places and to create more awareness.”

“You feel when a person is your Mr Right.”

–Dorian & Paul.

CATHOLIC MARRIAGE PREPARATION COURSES

LOCALITY

VENUE

Swatar - FULLY BOOKED Sala Parrokkjali

Naxxar

DATE & TIME TEL

6th January, 7.15pm99236639, 79472403

Ċentru Pastorali Ġesu Ħniena Divina6th January, 7.30pm21431327, 99429531

Qrendi - FULLY BOOKEDĊentru Parrokkjali

Birkirkara Ċentru Parrokkjali

San Ġużepp Ħaddiem

Santa Venera

Ċentru Parrokkjali

Ibraġ Ċentru Parrokkjali

Siġġiewi

Dar tal-Providenza

8th January, 9.30am 79617337

9th January, 7.15pm 21483245

11th January, 7.30pm 21482851

15th January, 3pmjohnjgatt@yahoo.com parrocca.ibrag@maltadiocese.org

22nd January, 9.15am99265011, 99990987

Attendance at the Cana Courses, from two years prior to the date of marriage.

BOOKINGS FOR THE COURSES ARE TO BE MADE WITH THE PARISH PRIEST OF THE LOCALITY WHERE THE COURSE WILL BE HELD. Please call during office hours.

Il-Moviment ta’ Kana, Istitut Kattoliku, Floriana FRN 1441 Malta

Tel: 2223 8000 Email: info@canamovement.org

Grupp BelongParrocca San Franġisk ta’ Assisi, Qawra28th January, 4pm 99462992 www.canamovement.org

https://www.facebook.com/familjakana http://www.youtube.com/user/familjakana