BLISS November 2021

WEDDINGS & HOMES

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ISSUE NO. 44

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WINTER 2021/2022

BL SS

€7.50

Love conquers all

LATEST WEDDING TRENDS | REAL COUPLES’ STORIES | AN ECLECTIC GEM

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CONTENTS

ISSUE 44 | WINTER 2021/2022

ISSUE 44 | WINTER 2021/2022 Bliss Magazine is Malta’s leading weddings and homes magazine. Bliss is distributed exclusively to each and every couple attending the Cana Wedding Courses, and is available from a select list of bridal and wedding-related outlets in Malta. The publication is also found in all leading hairdressers, beauty salons, cafés, dental clinics, hospitals and medical clinics across the island, as part of our premier distribution network. Bliss is also sold at leading stationers in Malta.

EDITOR Sarah Muscat Azzopardi PUBLISHER

Content House Group, Mallia Buildings, 3, Level 2, Triq in-Negozju, Zone 3, Central Business District Birkirkara CBD3010 Tel: 2132 0713 info@contenthouse.com.mt www.contenthouse.com.mt DESIGN Nicholas Cutajar – Design Studio at Content House Ltd CONTRIBUTORS Rebecca Anastasi; Lisa Borain; Jo Caruana; Andrea Christians; Teri Spiteri PHOTOGRAPHY Kurt Arrigo; Alan Carville; Tonio Lombardi; Kris Micallef; Inigo Taylor; Shane P Watts; David Zammit ADVERTISING Content House Ltd – Tel: 2132 0713

PAGE 26 REAL WEDDING

PAGE 78 HONEYMOON

FASHION & BEAUTY 14 BRIDAL TRENDS 56 ALCHEMY OF LOVE 68 LUXURY LIFESTYLE THROUGH LACE 72 A FEAST OF CLASSIC STYLE

WEDDINGS & HONEYMOONS 16 A MINIMAL AND MEANINGFUL MEDITERRANEAN CELEBRATION 26 THE HAPPIEST DAY OF OUR LIVES 36 EARTHLY, EXQUISITE BOHO 46 LOVE ALWAYS WINS 76 WEDDING TRENDS 78 NEWLYWEDS IN THE GREAT OUTDOORS

HOMES

SENIOR BRAND SALES MANAGER Jessica Spiteri Catania

84 THE ART OF THE HOME 88 A PLACE WITH MEANING 97 HOME INTERIOR TRENDS 2022

OPERATIONS & CLIENT RELATIONSHIP MANAGER Elena Debattista All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted, in any form or by any means, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior written authorisation of Content House Ltd. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information contained in the magazine, the publishers cannot be held responsible for any errors it may contain.

We care about the environment Because we care about the environment, Bliss is printed on FSC-certified paper, a certification which provides assurance that the paper is from sustainable and well-managed sources, thereby minimising its environmental impacts.

BRIDAL SHOOT PAGE 56

WEDDING TRENDS PAGE 76

REAL HOME PAGE 88

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EDITORIAL

OUR COVER

DRESS Stunning yet easy to handle bridal gown by Anna Sposa. It has a perfectly coordinated mix of geometric and floral lace that is ideal for a boho themed wedding.

Dress exclusively available at WEDDINGBELLS. Earrings by Pavie, exclusively available at ZSAZSA. FLOWER CROWN A fresh floral crown of blue thistles, blue hydrangeas and delicate yet bold pink wax flowers added to the more traditional pale garden roses and pastel hued green lisianthus, dotted with grasses throughout, ALISTAIR FLORAL DESIGN. LOCATION Santo Spirito Pharmacy within the National Archives, Rabat PHOTOGRAPHER Kris Micallef SHOOT COORDINATOR & STYLIST Sarah Muscat Azzopardi HAIR Alfie's Hair & Beauty MAKE-UP Francesca, Alfie's Hair & Beauty MODEL Angelina, Models M

T

his issue of BLISS is one that is close to my heart. After a turbulent year and a half for the wedding industry, the summer of 2021 has seen many couples’ postponed nuptials finally take place, including my own. As those whose plans have been affected by the pandemic can attest, it’s been an emotional ride – yet one which has only served to make the result that much sweeter, heightening our appreciation for our loved ones, family and friends.

In this issue, we share the stories of four sets of newlyweds who, like many others, finally had the chance to make their weddings a reality after several postponements. Discover how a fashionforward bride executed her perfect vision for a wedding gown, and join in one couple’s adventure-packed honeymoon across Iceland and the Faroe Islands.

Our bridal shoot took place in a unique location in which nymph-like model Angelica created a potent love potion, shot by the talented Kris Micallef. Finally, check out the trends that will be making waves in 2022 for some home inspiration, and discover the eclectic abode of a delightful local couple, which is chock-full of collected memories.

Enjoy the issue.

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BRIDAL TRENDS

words by

SARAH MUSCAT AZZOPARDI BARCELONA BRIDAL WEEK

catwalk shots courtesy of

Modern takes on lace Lace is a bridal classic, but that doesn’t mean it’s got to be traditional!

Contemporary takes on lace abound in bridalwear, with laser-cut and graphic motifs bringing the look to a sharp 2021 remodel. Regardless of your desired silhouette, this new take on lace will make all the difference.

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New bohemian

Shorter dresses

Boho bridal styles have been having a moment for some time, but the latest iterations of the trend are far from tired! Look out for ultra-trendy Bishop sleeves, smocking and empire waists for a new bohemian look with a nod to Victoriana, which is sure to appeal to the modern romantic bride.

There’s always been room for the shorter dress on bridal runways, but with the havoc wreaked by the pandemic in the last year leading many brides to opt for a simple ceremony or elopement in place of a big bash, shorter dresses have been thrust into the spotlight, and bridal designers are taking notice.

DESIGNER

DESIGNER

DESIGNER

BELLANTUONO

JESUS PEIRO

ISABEL SANCHIS

BRIDAL TRENDS

XL ruffles

Starry sparkle

Cool tones

Voluminous gowns in bridalwear are hardly ground-breaking, yet the styles dominating recent collections have an aura all of their own. Equal parts soft and architectural, these oversized ruffled creations are perfect for the fashionista looking to make a statement on her wedding day.

If you’re partial to a bit of shimmer, you’ll love this trend! Gowns that reflect the sparkling night sky are the chic new option for the glamorous bride, without going over-the-top on shine. Flowing silhouettes that catch the light as you move have never looked so elegant.

Cool shades like pistachio, dove, lavender and sky blue are really having a moment in the bridal world, with top designers like Vera Wang, Monique Lhuillier and Oscar de la Renta leading the way.

If you’re looking for an alternative to white or ivory in 2022, go cool.

DESIGNER

DESIGNER

DESIGNER

ANTONIO RIVA

FLORA

ANTONIO RIVA

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CARLA SEBASTIAN OUR LADY OF LOURDES CHAPEL, GHAJNSIELEM TA’ CENC IL-KANTRA RESTAURANT, SANNAT

A minimal and meaningful Mediterranean celebration Newlyweds Carla Grima and Sebastian Ripard tell Sarah Muscat Azzopardi how they pulled off their memorable wedding weekend in Gozo last June, and how they didn’t let COVID restrictions get in the way of their special day.

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t was some 20 years ago when Designer and Creative Director Carla Grima, 33, and Management Consultant Sebastian Ripard, 34, met for the first time as young teens.

“Seb was camping with some of our mutual friends, and it all happened over a game of spin the bottle,” Carla laughs, recalling their first encounter. “I knew there was something special about her from the beginning,” admits Seb, though it would be several years before the two got together to make a proper go of it.

In 2010, Carla was based in London working for a fashion designer, while Seb was travelling around Europe on an Olympic sailing campaign. “He needed a place to stay in London, so he crashed at my place, which I shared with my housemate, who ended up being my maid of honour at the wedding,” Carla recalls.

The next day, she explains, Seb mentioned that he had to drive to Spain to deliver some sails and asked if Carla

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wanted to join the adventure – one that would turn out to be the first of many. “He picked me up in an old Royal Mail van that he had converted into a makeshift caravan. It was full of sails, so the only way we could both sleep in it was if we held onto each other,” she laughs, revealing “it totally felt like he had planned it all.”

By the time the pair reached their destination, a relationship had started to form, and they would go on to make it work long-distance for a few years, before moving back to Malta. And, while it would be more than 10 years before the couple tied the knot, they say that it was clear from early on that it was the real deal.

“I remember thinking, about two years in, that it was really what I had hoped and imagined a good relationship would be. I felt very comfortable with her and felt like we complemented each other. I knew this could be the person that I build the rest of my life with,” reveals Seb, sweetly.

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For Carla, it was in 2016, when the pair had survived starting up a business together, which Seb eventually left to found his own delivery company, that cemented the relationship. “It was a big thing – starting the business, having arguments as anyone would and overcoming them, and then Seb leaving, without the relationship going sour,” she says.

The proposal eventually happened on Christmas Eve in 2017. “I had come to the conclusion that I wanted to marry Carla a couple of years before I proposed, but I kept waiting until the time was right. At a point, I felt like that would never actually come, so I might as well just propose,” says Seb, explaining that since Carla would always tease him for missing family events because he was away sailing, he came up with the idea to propose at a family occasion.

“We were meant to give each other one present on Christmas Eve with her family, so I wrapped the ring box in 10 different boxes, starting off from a really big box, which eventually got smaller and smaller until it came to the ring. I also put a message for her in each box,” Seb recalls, as Carla chuckles, “I still have the messages!”

As Carla opened box after box, her sister quickly picked up on what was about to happen, exclaiming ‘oh, he’s proposing!’

“Looking back, it was really sweet, but at that moment I remember feeling really awkward,” laughs Carla. “I felt like I couldn’t show my real emotions since we were in front of so many people, but the build-up was hilarious, with my

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sister shouting to open the champagne! I was bright red by the time the ring box came out.”

From then on, Carla would take care of most of the wedding prep, with the help of her mother. “I enjoy organising events and enjoyed going into all the little details, but when we had to cut out so much stuff because of COVID restrictions, it did get stressful,” she admits, though the pair overcame this with regular trips to the beach to keep the stress away. “There’s no point in getting too stressed over one day in your life – it’s not about everything going 100 per cent right, but about being united and taking in all the special moments,” she says.

Indeed, this outlook would come in handy, as the pair would face a few setbacks before eventually tying the knot in June 2021.

“We had actually planned to get married before the pandemic and changed that when we found out we were expecting a child. Then, we planned to get married in 2020, which was impacted by COVID,” reveals Carla.

The couple chose Our Lady of Lourdes Chapel in Ghajnsielem for the ceremony – an obvious decision for both. “The chapel is really beautiful. It’s tiny, but has a view of Mgarr, Comino and Malta. I love it because you can look directly out to sea, but it also has a special meaning for Carla, because her nannu used to have a vineyard right next to it,” explains Seb. “It was really meaningful for my family, especially because my nannu had passed away the year before Seb proposed,” Carla adds.

Kurt Arrigo

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And while COVID restrictions were quite tight as their wedding day rolled around – and they had to forgo a traditional wedding reception for a meal at a restaurant – they admit, “it turned out to be quite a positive thing, as it was nice to have the small wedding we always wanted, at the venue we wanted. One of the biggest disappointments towards the end was not being able to have a live band, but we got over it!”

Explaining the change of plans, Carla says, “we always wished to have the reception at Kantra Lido, on Ta’ Cenc Cliffs. We love the view, and the feeling of being on the cliffs.

We’re there quite a lot in summer and love it.” However, since the pair was planning to have around 250 guests originally, the restaurant couldn’t accommodate them. “So, we selected Palazzo Palina, connected to Ta’ Cenc, which we were happy with, but always wanted to find a way to use Kantra for our wedding weekend. In the end, because we had to downsize the wedding, we luckily got to use Kantra.

It really worked out!”

When planning it out, the pair says they wanted the overall feel of the day to be effortless. “I wanted everyone to feel involved, to make the event feel more connected to family and friends. We didn’t have a wedding planner, which I quite liked, as I enjoyed being involved and involving bridesmaids, parents and friends,” Carla maintains.

As for a theme, Carla says they applied a loose Sicilian theme, featuring ceramic souvenirs made by her family’s business, Mediterranean Ceramics. They also added olive leaves and rusco flowers to the décor for a wild, minimal Mediterranean feel.

“I knew this could be the person that I build the rest of my life with.”

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Kurt Arrigo

“We always wished to have the reception at Kantra Lido, on Ta’ Cenc Cliffs. We love the view, and the feeling of being on the cliffs.”

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Ultimately, despite the restrictions, what the couple wanted most out of their wedding became reality. “We wanted a day filled with love and unity, and for family and friends to come together and share our love for each other,” says Carla, to which Seb adds, “I wanted to celebrate our commitment to each other with friends and family… drinking too much alcohol and enjoying good food. That’s all I wanted!”

As the big day finally arrived, all was set for the ceremony, to which Carla was driven by Seb’s 93-year-old grandfather in his classic blue and white Dollie. “He was so eager to get me there and right in front of the church that he drove into some of the outdoor seating,” laughs Carla as she recalls the special memory.

And as it turns out, the laughs didn’t end there.

Describing the proceedings as “like a scene out of Fawlty Towers”, the pair admit to having a couple of hilarious mishaps, including a candle that wouldn’t light, Carla’s veil getting pulled off, and the bride dropping a candle holder.

“There were a lot of giggles,” they say, and it all contributed to making it more memorable.

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“We spent several afternoons hand stitching silk flowers, which Seb’s sisterin-law and myself hand cut from the remnants of my wedding dress fabric.”

Their celebrant, Father John Muscat, was also a big part of that. “His words were really special and meaningful, and he let us add a few extra parts to the ceremony that aren’t typically included in a Catholic wedding.” Their grandparents were also involved, writing a message and reading it out as a bidding prayer. The newlyweds also took the time to read a vow of promise to their daughter, who was at the church, along with their dog, who also formed a special part of the ceremony.

Meanwhile, The New Victorians – with whom Carla has collaborated many times – filled the chapel with their beautiful voices. “It meant so much to us having them there.

We gave them a list of songs – some religious and some not, but still with meaningful lyrics that summed up the spiritual union of marriage – having them sing them was so emotional,” she says.

Being the Creative Director of her own brand, it’s no surprise that Carla not only designed her own dress for the day, but also her bridesmaids’ outfits.

Looking back on the process, she reveals, “I was set on a few ideas from the start of my design research, including opting for silk so that it could be dyed to another colour if I ever got the opportunity to wear it again.” Carla also wanted her dress to have a simple draped element, forming part of a construction which would be minimal and comfortable.

The stunning result featured a draped cowl back, and a detachable knot which sat low on the spine. “When I started my research and sketches, the idea was a lot simpler than what was designed, but I’m glad because I would have probably regretted wearing something so simple – I’m glad it had a bit more design and elegance to it,” Carla admits, adding that her fabric choice also changed. “I was going to go for a silk crepe de chine, which is a very luxurious wellwoven silk, but I felt that I would miss out on the shine of a silk satin, and I’m glad I chose it because it did make me feel more elegant and dressed up on the day.”

Her veil was another labour of love, which she has fond memories of working on with her mother. “We spent several afternoons hand stitching silk flowers, which Seb’s sister-inlaw and myself hand cut from the remnants of my wedding dress fabric.”

The bridesmaids also wore bespoke looks by Carla Grima Atelier. Here, Carla created a leaf print inspired by the garden at Palazzo Palina, which was printed onto elegant kaftans. “I felt like a version of a kaftan was important for me,” says Carla, who is known for the style. “I played around with different ideas and made it a little more glamorous than the resort-wear kaftans I usually create, and mixed that with a more contemporary base, which ended up being a satin cropped jumpsuit.”

Through her work, Carla explains that she’s collaborated with many incredible creatives on different projects, and was excited to have them on board for her big day too. Among them, she lists Nicole Gera from Dean Gera, who did the hair. “We are childhood friends and has helped me out from when I started out. It was really fun to have her there. She just knew what I would go for,” Carla says.

Meanwhile, makeup was entrusted to Alexia Kind, who the designer has worked with on quite a few shoots. “She knows how much I love to create makeup looks but how much I hate wearing makeup myself, so it was great that she understood that and didn’t try to overdo it. It creates a really relaxed atmosphere having a team that you’ve worked with before, and a team that knows your family and friends,” she affirms.

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“On the day, we really understood why people tell you to enjoy it because it passes so quickly – I just wanted to bottle up every moment and feeling and memory.”

Other special mentions include photographer David Zammit, who is soon to be Seb’s brother-in-law, and who’s lifestyle brand of photography the couple love; seamstress Olga, who Carla speaks highly of and who she entrusted with the construction of her wedding dress; and florist Charmaine from Sherries in Gozo, who “totally got” her vision and executed it perfectly.

In the end, the newlyweds enjoyed a magical wedding weekend in Gozo, with 80 of their closest family and friends.

“We had something planned for each day to make the most out of it,” they say, and while they admit that it would have been nice to have more of their friends over from abroad, it was special nonetheless.

Looking back on it all, Seb highlights the mass as his favourite part, sharing, “when Carla walked down the aisle, it felt like it was really happening.”

Carla’s favourite bit was also the ceremony, mainly because “it wasn’t just about us getting married and the emotions we felt for each other but hearing people’s comments after and how much they enjoyed it and their involvement in it – I thought it was really beautiful.”

Most importantly, she adds, “I’m so glad that we didn’t postpone it again. On the day, I really understood why people tell you to enjoy it because it passes so quickly – I just wanted to bottle up every moment and feeling and memory.

I’m so glad for the photos!”

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DETAILS CUSTOM INVITES & SOUVENIRS Carla’s leafy print design from the kaftans was also used as the theme for the wedding stationery, including invites and welcome notes. The souvenirs, meanwhile, were little Testa di Moro Sicilian heads, produced by her family business. “My mum grew some succulents which she planted inside. We wanted to have a nice, vibrant souvenir which you can take home and use,” Carla says.

THE CHERRY ON THE CAKE “We were really fixed on having a pistachio cake, because Seb, myself and Olivia are quite obsessed with pistachios. We couldn’t find someone who could make the cake for us, and eventually our good friend Charlene, who is a chef, came to the rescue. Seb’s mum brought us freshly ground pistachio paste from Sicily which we used to make a cream with, and building it together was really fun. We also asked our friend Jeanine, who had just opened her flower shop, to supply us with beautiful pink gypsophila to decorate it with,” Carla explains.

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CHARLENE CHRIS GOZO CATHEDRAL, VICTORIA, GOZO MARSOVIN VINEYARDS, RAMLA BAY, GOZO

The happiest day of our lives The Travellers band member and vocalist Chris Gatt met Charlene Grima at a young age. An eight-year courtship followed, which entailed many experiences and adventures, and culminated in them marrying last June in a Tuscan-style vintage wedding with a hint of boho chic. Here, they share their story with Andrea Christians.

P H OTO S B Y S H A N E P WAT T S

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rowing up in a small community made it perhaps inevitable that Charlene Grima and Chris Gatt should one day meet.

“We’re Gozitan, and Chris is only 15 days older than I am, so you tend to know the kids your age, given how small Gozo is,” explains Charlene. “Also, our brothers have been friends since childhood, so we first met and got to know each other through their friendship.”

But that this meeting would become a romance that would lead to marriage was something that neither could have known when Charlene and Chris ventured out on their first date together eight years ago.

Charlene confides that she believes their strength as a couple is based on their communication and that, despite having incredibly busy schedules at times, they always make time for one another.

“As we got to know each other, travelled together and basically grew older together, we realised that we were always there for each other; not only for the good but also the less fun times. So, we figured that getting married was the next natural step in our relationship and we

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“We figured that getting married was the next natural step in our relationship and we wanted to celebrate our love for each other with our close family and friends.”

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wanted to celebrate our love for each other with our close family and friends,” she says, revealing that Chris was keen to take things to the next level and proposed on Christmas Eve 2017.

“It was during a casual sunset picnic at one of our favourite go-to sunset spots in Gozo – probably my love for sunsets made him do it!” laughs Charlene.

Despite being intent on a summer ceremony in 2020, the onset of COVID-19 restrictions thwarted the couple’s immediate plans, leaving them no option but to postpone until the following year. Their patience was to pay off, however, as their wedding on 25th June this year proved to be everything they hoped it would be.

The venue for the reception was the first to be finalised, with the Marsovin Vineyards near Ramla Bay selected as the location. It is a place that holds a special significance for the couple as every year, Chris and his The Travellers band mates play at an intimate event there. “The special memories from this yearly event helped us opt for this venue, with the idea of turning it into a little paradise for a day,” explains Charlene.

However, their choice of location brought with it certain practical and logistical challenges that took a great deal of pre-planning and teamwork to resolve. “Although we decided to do a lot of the set-up and decorations ourselves, we couldn’t manage without the help of our family members and a number of vendors working together to make sure the vineyards were properly equipped to host a wedding. The set-up included the installation of a portable kitchen and portable bathrooms close enough to the wedding venue, a

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lighting system as well as a sound system, and all the soft furnishings and stations,” they reveal.

When it came to the dress, Charlene knew exactly what she wanted. “Given that we planned a summer wedding, I’d always wanted a simple, effortless yet different wedding dress – not the usual white dress. After a discussion with fashion designer Luke Azzopardi, we agreed on an ivory two-piece gown. The top layer of the dress featured a corseted waist and embroidered tulle, while the bottom layer was a simple heavyweight slip dress in pure silk crepe in dark ivory. I wore both for most of the evening, only changing to the silk slip dress after the first dance,” she shares.

Charlene adds that Luke Azzopardi Studio also designed a headpiece to match the embroidered leaves on the dress, which was custom-made in gold by a Gozitan goldsmith, Lukas Farrugia. To complete the look, Charlene wore her late grandmother’s gold earrings.

“I had four bridesmaids in total, all of whom were dressed in Luke Azzopardi, each with a completely different dress, material and style – all reflecting their unique characters. Their look was finished off with different dried flower crowns by The Secret Rose,” Charlene continues.

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The eve of the wedding remains a special memory for Charlene, as a time spent with close family and friends, and she recounts the group going for a sunset swim before dining together, with one friend conducting a yoga class to help relax the future bride.

As the day of the wedding dawned, Charlene’s makeup was done by beautician Adriana whilst her hair was styled

by Hair and Co, as was that of the groom. Transport to the church came in the form of a vintage Mercedes that was offered by a fellow Gozitan from his private classic car collection, whilst the memories of their special day were immortalised by well-known video artist Mauro D’Amato “who managed to capture our forever memories with our loved ones.”

The flowers, meanwhile, were left in the capable hands of George Sacco Xerri, who Charlene describes as professional and talented. “George made our mood board come to life,” she gushes.

The wedding ceremony took place at the Gozo Cathedral, in the heart of the Cittadella in Victoria, Gozo.

It was conducted by Father Mario Mercieca, a young priest who is also Charlene’s cousin, who flew down specially from Rome to administer the sacrament of marriage to the couple, in an emotional ceremony.

At the altar, all five of Chris’s band members stood beside him as his bride walked down the aisle in a touching gesture of their unity. Charlene reveals that The Travellers later played a short set at the wedding reception, with Chris singing a few of their hits during the set.

“I’d always wanted a simple, effortless yet different wedding dress – not the usual white dress.”

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DETAILS A SPECIAL WEDDING GIFT “Our wedding cake was a three-tier semi-naked cake. We decided to add gold leaf in the form of leaves, topped with a flower cake topper to match the rest of the setting. A very dear friend of mine, Angie, baked the cake as a wedding gift, and that made it even more special,” explains Charlene.

GROOM STYLE “Luke Azzopardi Studio also took care of Chris’s outfit and designed a black tuxedo, lined in their original ‘Tree of Life’ print in silk. The look was completed with a self-tie bow and slip-on boat shoes,” Charlene says.

“Our first dance was a new song written by The Travellers, Hdejja, which is about to be released. It has a special significance as it includes the lyrics ‘ersaq ejja ħdejja nieħu ħsiebek jien, inwiegħdek li ser nikbru mmutu t-tnejn flimkien,’ which means ‘come closer, I promise to take care of you, we’ll grow old and die together’. This will be included in their new album which is being launched in late October,” reveals Charlene.

Meanwhile, catering at the al fresco vineyard reception was entrusted entirely to esteemed Gozitan caterers Ta’ Frenc, with the exception of the cake. “Ta’ Frenc made themselves available throughout the whole journey, topping their service off with a delicious food feast on the night of the wedding,” explains Charlene, describing them as “the best caterer one could have.”

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As summer now turns to autumn, the couple are left with precious memories of the joyous occasion as they reveal that, despite having to postpone by a year, they had earlier made a promise to one another.

“That promise was that no matter what went wrong or not as originally planned, we would smile about it and move on to focus on enjoying the moment and make the day as memorable as possible. The most important thing, after all, was to celebrate us and our love, and to have fun with our closest friends and family. This mindset was also transmitted to those around us, and we will always remember it as being one of the happiest days of our lives,” says Chris.

“We will always remember it as being one of the happiest days of our lives.”

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SARAH RICHARD TA’ SKORBA FARMHOUSE, VINCENT’S ECO-FARM, MGARR TA’ SKORBA FARMHOUSE, VINCENT’S ECO-FARM, MGARR

Earthly, exquisite boho Bliss’ very own editor Sarah Muscat Azzopardi (née Micallef) tied the knot with her beau, Richard, this summer in a bucolic and soulful celebration at Vincent’s Eco-Farm, which was filled with love, community… and a little bit of rain. Here, they relive the big and small emotions with Rebecca Anastasi.

P H OTO S B Y K R I S M I C A L L E F

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ave you ever wanted to know what the nuptials of a wedding and homes magazine editor would be like? Well, you’ve come to the right place! This summer, on 4th September, Bliss’ long-standing editor, Sarah Micallef – now Muscat Azzopardi – married her soulmate, Richard, after eight happy years together.

Their first encounter was in 2009, atypically, during a job interview, and the pair ended up working together for a few years. “My first impressions of Rik were that he seemed nice, and friendly, but there was not, at that stage, anything more since I wanted to impress him on a professional level,” Sarah recalls, smiling, looking to Richard who responds: “well, at the time, I had never met anyone so passionate about one thing, in your case, fashion. You were so focused and determined.”

The pair lost touch after Richard left the company, but, two years later, in 2013, they reconnected when Richard needed to collect an embroidered frame – created by Sarah herself.

“We got talking again,” Sarah explains, “we were both single at that point, which we weren’t before, and he asked me out for a drink… well, a coffee which turned into drinks.”

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“I still love my wedding dress so much – I feel like the best version of myself in it.”

Early on in their blossoming relationship, the couple felt they were deeply compatible. “It’s a value match,” Richard states, adding “we are very different, personality-wise, but we have many common interests.” Sarah explains further: “it’s a feeling you get when you have certain conversations which tell you that you both have a similar outlook on life, and value the same things.”

Three months in, they decided to buy a house together.

“Everyone thought we were crazy,” Sarah says. “But we knew this was a relationship which was going to last. And, six months later, we found an old house which needed a lot of renovation. That took two years so, by the time we moved in together, the people around us thought it was ‘safer’, so to speak.”

In July 2019, after living together for almost 18 months, Richard took Sarah out for dinner at a Japanese restaurant.

“Halfway through the meal, I asked Sarah if she wanted to join me on a honeymoon to Japan,” Richard remembers.

“She proceeded to cry through dinner, so I ate the rest of the sushi myself. I did manage to give her the engagement ring though!”

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Preparations got quickly underway. Of course, after years of styling wedding shoots, and research into bridal trends, Sarah knew exactly what she wanted. “I mainly took care of the design and concept of the wedding,” the bride explains.

“We knew we wanted a smaller, intimate wedding. The location was actually our point of departure, since we wanted it to be outdoors and we were looking for a farm or a field which would allow for a more relaxed atmosphere, and we wanted to create a festival-type vibe.”

The couple found Ta’ Skorba Farmhouse at Vincent’s Eco-Farm pretty quickly, and they booked the celebration for May 2020, although they were – like many others last year – forced to change the dates twice due to the pandemic. “The venue was absolutely amazing; they gave us no trouble at all to move dates and they were very accommodating. They had not had many weddings there before us, having catered mainly to smaller foreign celebrations, so they really went all out for us,” Sarah explains.

And Sarah also knew what she wanted when it came to the wedding dress. “It actually started when I was doing some research for a Bliss trends feature a few years ago, and I had come across this photo on Instagram, in which the model was wearing a dress I thought was stunning. I bookmarked it at the time – since I loved the shot itself – and when I got engaged, I decided to look the designer up, who turned out to be the founder of a celebrated boho design house in New Zealand called Rue de Siene. I found they had stockists in the

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“There was a real community created around the organisation of our wedding.”

UK and there was actually a shop close to where my family lives in Manchester, so we engineered a trip to visit when that store had their trunk show, that is when they showcase all the dresses from this specific brand over two days,” Sarah describes.

While in the UK, to make sure she covered all bases, Sarah, together with members from her family, also booked appointments with other suppliers before they headed to the Rue de Siene stockists. “There were some really nice dresses but none of them gave me the ‘wow’ factor. On the last day, we went to the trunk show. I tried on about eight gowns, and we loved them all. There wasn’t a dress which didn’t come out and my family didn’t gasp,” she laughs.

“But I had left my personal favourite to the end. I had seen it online before and thought this might be it – and as soon as I tried it on, and opened the curtain, my father and aunt started crying. The decision was made. I still love that dress so much – I feel like the best version of myself in it.”

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DETAILS THE FLOWER CROWN STATION One of the more bucolic details of the wedding was the flower crown station, designed and made by Sarah herself. “I made these flower crowns for each of the female guests and set it up so they would all pick one which matched their outfit before settling down for the ceremony.

It was so exciting seeing everyone looking so beautiful in their crowns, as I walked down the aisle, and really lent towards the entire boho aesthetic,” the bride says.

With the dress sorted, attention turned to the wedding details. “Due to the change in dates, there was much more time to work on the theme of the wedding, to source the décor, to gather the props that I wanted,” Sarah says, going into the immense amount of research which went into creating the gorgeous detailing in the use of boho cane furniture; vintage glass bottle centrepieces; crochet place mats for all the guests – which were handmade by Sarah’s mother and aunts – and a ‘chill out’ area. “Our florist, Alistair, was also invaluable throughout the whole process. I created a detailed mood board for him, and, since I’m very visual by nature, my expectations were high. And he totally exceeded them,” Sarah says.

Key to the process was the help of family and friends.

“There was a real community created around the organisation of our wedding,” Sarah beams. “From the people who were involved directly, such as the bridal party, to our suppliers, and family and friends who helped out in any way they could, it was such a celebration of love and connection. Everyone lent a hand and made us feel really special.”

In the meantime, Richard was entrusted with the music and the drinks, which the couple got from Farsons Direct.

“Farsons Direct were incredibly helpful throughout the entire process, from organising a selection of wines to taste, based on the items on the menu, to the collection of returns the day after the wedding. The process was plain sailing, smooth from beginning to end,” says Richard.

“There was a downpour, a freak storm. My brother had noticed and had raced to the venue, to put the speakers inside, and try and save as much as he could.”

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CROCHET RATTAN PLACEMATS Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the couple had to forsake their initial idea of having a festival-style celebration, with food trucks lining the venue. But the sit-down meal was, instead, a great opportunity to show off some of their family skills. “My mum, her sister and her aunt are crochet geniuses, and they made the crochet rattan placemats for everyone. It took them all summer to do, but it really brought everyone together,” Sarah recalls.

BOTTLES OF HOMEMADE OLIVE OIL As souvenirs, the couple opted to highlight the bonds of family and community through the gift of little bottles of olive oil, a mixed blend made by using olives from Richard’s parents’ field. “Everything about the wedding was as personalised as possible so that people felt they were really part of something,” Richard says.

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As for the music, “I got a band together that was basically built around the wedding,” he explains. “My brother, Adrian, used to play with them, and he actually sang a bit on the day – unplanned and unpractised – but the band were able to play the kind of music we had asked for specifically,” he continues. “That was Rik’s baby,” Sarah acknowledges, “even though music is something we really consider a shared interest. The way a wedding sounds is just as important as the way it looks, and the celebration really came together with the sound selected,” she asserts.

The few days before the wedding were frantic, as the bride and groom set up the location themselves, with all the props and design items they had planned. The hard work paid off and, on the morning of the big day itself, all the couple had to look forward to was celebrating the special event with their closest family and friends.

“At 11am on the big day, I messaged Sarah from the barber’s shop and said ‘finally, I’m going to have some peace and quiet’,” Richard recalls. But suddenly, his phone went off with calls and messages. “There was a downpour, a freak storm. My brother, Ed, had noticed and had raced to the venue, to put the speakers inside, and try and save as much as he could. In the meantime, I got there with my friend and witness, Clint, and we called for reinforcements.”

While this was going on, Sarah was busy getting ready at home. “Ryan, my brother and bridesman, as well as Emma, my cousin and bridesmaid, were intent on making me relax that morning, so I got my makeup and hair done knowing that we will just have to deal with whatever came our way. I had to make peace with the situation and, thankfully, the sun came out again at noon.”

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“It was a real celebration of love and not just our love, but that of our family and friends.”

By this time, however, a lot had gotten soaked, pushing the groom, his brother and friends to set everything up again… from scratch. “I had so many people call me to ask if we needed a hand and many really came through for us in our time of need. So, we worked from 12.15pm to 4pm – that was when some of the 87 wedding guests started to arrive! My aunt and uncle wondered why I wasn’t ready yet,” Richard laughs.

Yet, by the time Sarah pulled up with her bridal party, in a vintage Lancia Fulvia driven by Richard’s brother, the venue was back in place, ready for the celebration to begin.

“It’s hard to separate the emotion of the whole event from the moment I first saw Sarah that day. She looked stunning. It was a real emotional kick,” the groom gushes.

The ceremony, presided over by a humanist celebrant, was filled with personal moments, as Adrian, Richard’s brother, and two of Sarah’s friends, wrote heartfelt speeches, instead of reciting pre-written readings. “They brought us to tears,” Sarah recalls. “They were so touching and beautiful, exceeding my expectations completely,” as Richard admits to “bawling”.

Following the ‘I dos’, the party sat down to a five-course dinner, crafted by Corinthia Caterers. “They were real champions,” the bride says. “They were our first choice since we believe in their food and the service they offer. Richard and I are big foodies, and this is one of the things which really connects us, so we wanted the meal to be memorable for our guests – and it was. The food was beautifully presented, and

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the cake was delicious – a semi-naked affair, decorated with flowers and consisting of two flavours: lemon poppy seed and white chocolate and raspberry.”

Indeed, all the hard work in the run-up to the big day, and, later, the rain, could not dampen the joy of the day. “I loved it from start to finish,” Sarah says, as Richard adds: “it was a real celebration of love, and not just our love, but that of our family and friends.”

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SEPHORA DWAYNE OUR LADY OF VICTORY CHURCH, VALLETTA ROSSELLI – AX PRIVILEGE, VALLETTA

Love always wins Undeterred by the restrictions posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Sephora (née Baldacchino) and Dwayne Vella were determined to go ahead with their wedding and get married as soon as they were able. They tell their story to Andrea Christians.

P H OTO S B Y K R I S M I C A L L E F

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n 2017, neither Sephora nor Dwayne would have said that they believed in love at first sight. That is, until they met, and the rest, as they say, is history.

From a love of travelling, cooking and hiking to their favourite style of décor, Sephora recalls how they “clicked” on just about everything, and within a short time, both had the distinct feeling that they had met the person that they would spend the rest of their life with.

An artist and art historian, Sephora is creative, spontaneous and outgoing, and is complemented perfectly by Dwayne who, as an engineer, has a calm demeanour and analytical mind. “I’m the creative one and Dwayne is very practical,” laughs Sephora, in what is obviously a coupling where both appreciate the qualities of the other.

Convinced that it was not a case of if but when they would get married, the couple embarked on house hunting – again, in total agreement of what it was they were looking for in their future home.

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“Simplicity and elegance were the defining aspects of this small, intimate wedding.”

As nature lovers, Sephora secretly hoped that the proposal, when it happened, would be outdoors and in a romantic location, and Dwayne did not disappoint. In late 2019, whilst on a trip to the picturesque city of Vienna, Dwayne asked Sephora to be his wife just as snow started falling around them.

Neither wanted a long engagement and by the beginning of 2020, plans were underway for their wedding. Both recall the planning stage as a fun experience, having agreed to scale down their original plans and to opt for a wedding that would be small, intimate, and elegant.

The first decision made was the venue, with Rosselli – AX Privilege in Valletta chosen as it embodied everything they were looking for regarding the décor and menu. The couple reveal that they were particularly impressed by the tailor-made service that the establishment offered, which catered for their every need.

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Undaunted by the restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Sephora and Dwayne were determined to go ahead with the ceremony, and as soon as seated gatherings with social distancing were permitted, the date was set for late spring 2021. Opting for a six-course meal, they envisaged the reception as a shared “culinary experience” with their guests and were even more excited as the restaurant within the Rosselli, Under Grain, had just been awarded its first Michelin star.

When it came to the wedding dress, in keeping with the understated theme of the wedding, Sephora knew that she was looking for a combination of simplicity and style.

Surprisingly, her dream dress was presented to her early on in her search – as the very first gown she saw at Wedding Bells in Valletta, which offers a wide range of choices to suit all tastes.

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“Sephora completed the outfit with a long simple veil that would trail gracefully behind her as she made her way down the aisle.”

Having described what she wanted, Sephora was amazed to be shown a dress that matched almost exactly what she had envisaged but, unable to believe it could be that easy, she still visited several other shops before returning to claim this first gown, in purest white, that had stolen her heart. It would take just a few minor alterations from an excellent seamstress to make it perfect, and Sephora completed the outfit with a long simple veil that would trail gracefully behind her as she made her way down the aisle.

The same simplicity was reflected in the choice of flowers, with Sephora opting for a demure bouquet of white peonies, a flower she has always loved for its beauty, both in bud and in bloom. For Dwayne and his two brothers, who were his best man and witness, dark blue morning suits were the order of the day, with orchids as the chosen flower for the boutonnieres.

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“Despite the circumstances, love always wins.”

On the day of the wedding, it was an early start for the bride, along with her mother and sister, and the first task was to have their hair styled by Justin and Mark from Hair Factory, ready for the occasion. Sephora’s hair was teased into a low bun, followed by a visit from the makeup artist as the hour quickly approached for the entourage to make the journey to the church. They did so in a white Austin Princess that, as a spacious seven-seater, was able to carry all the immediate family members.

The church chosen for the ceremony was Our Lady of Victory – Valletta’s oldest church, which marks the foundation stone of the city. Sephora describes it as “a personal choice” as it reflects her passion for historical art and architecture. Dwayne and his groomsmen had stayed at another hotel and according to tradition, waited patiently at the altar for the bride, who was given away by her father.

The ensuing ceremony was both touching and joyous as, in the presence of family and friends, Sephora and Dwayne made their vows to one another in a service conducted by Father John Scicluna, who has known them for some time.

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On exiting the church, the newlywed’s love of nature was once again demonstrated with gathered olive leaves thrown as an eco-friendly alternative to confetti. The olive leaf theme was also repeated in the decoration of the wedding cake.

The man in charge of capturing the memories that day was Kris Micallef, a photographer whose work Sephora had long admired after seeing an exhibition of his art several years before, deciding then that he would one day be the person to photograph her big day.

All 36 guests at the reception that followed had received a personally written invitation on handmade paper, that had been personally written by Sephora to add a further personal touch to the proceedings. Arriving at the Rosselli after the ceremony, the mood was exuberant as the champagne flowed, speeches were made, and an exquisite meal was served.

Now, as their life together proceeds and new memories are made, the events of that day remain forever with them as the day when two hearts became one and, as Sephora says, “despite the circumstances, love always wins.”

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ALCHEMY OF LOVE LOCATION: Santo Spirito Pharmacy within the National Archives, Rabat PHOTOGRAPHER: Kris Micallef SHOOT COORDINATOR & STYLIST: Sarah Muscat Azzopardi HAIR: Alfie's Hair & Beauty MAKE-UP: Francesca, Alfie's Hair & Beauty MODEL: Angelina, Models M

Dress

: Pomp by Pollardi is a fairytale dress for a fairytale wedding. It features multiple striking layers, while the upper part of the dress boasts a beautiful sparkle corset with hanging sleeves, creating a sweet yet sexy bridal look. Exclusively available at Ellie Mae boutique.

Floral Headpiece: A statement floral headband featuring a bold white chrysanthemum and garden roses, accented with touches of blue from hydrangeas and thistle flowers, Alistair Floral Design.

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Dress: Exquisite beaded lace embellishes this

timeless, sparkling tulle ballgown, featuring a seductive deep V-neck and opulent semi-Cathedral train. Exclusively available at ArtBridal boutique.

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Dress: Stunning yet easy to handle bridal gown by Anna Sposa. It has a perfectly coordinated mix of geometric and floral lace that is ideal for a boho themed wedding. Dress exclusively available at WEDDINGBELLS. Earrings by Pavie, exclusively available at ZSAZSA.

Flower Crown

: A fresh floral crown of blue thistles, blue hydrangeas and delicate yet bold pink wax flowers added to the more traditional pale garden roses and pastel hued green lisianthus, dotted with grasses throughout, Alistair Floral Design.

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Dress: Stunning gown by Lana Shiy Couture that is glamorous yet comfortable. The beautiful matching veil is optional, but undoubtedly completes the look of this stunning piece that is exclusively available at WEDDINGBELLS. Earrings by Pavie, exclusively available at ZSAZSA.

Bouquet: A bolder take on a bridal bouquet, featuring a beautiful pink chrysanthemum alongside berzelia berries, spray roses and an antique hydrangea, Alistair Floral Design.

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Dress: Decadently beaded lace and a sexy low back with a sheer accent create this captivating, mesmerizing look.

Exclusively available at ArtBridal boutique.

Floral Headpiece: A statement floral headband featuring a bold white chrysanthemum and garden roses, accented with touches of blue from hydrangeas and thistle flowers, Alistair Floral Design.

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Dress

: Another amazing piece by Lana Shiy Couture, consisting of intricate beadwork on the bodice, bell sleeves and an A-line skirt made from the softest of tulle, which creates an enchanting feel. Exclusively available at WEDDINGBELLS. Earrings by Pavie, exclusively available at ZSAZSA.

Flower Crown: A fresh floral crown of blue thistles, blue hydrangeas and delicate yet bold pink wax flowers added to the more traditional pale garden roses and pastel hued green lisianthus, dotted with grasses throughout, Alistair Floral Design.

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Dress

: An elegant silhouette and impeccable details, with fine embroideries that showcase an effortless glamorous modern edge. Exclusively available at ArtBridal boutique.

Dress: The Conqueror by Ida Torez features a modern classic

silhouette that is gradually taking over classic oversized bridal skirts. The luxe organza dress boasts a sleek, modern cut, and an interesting concept of the design lies in the corset, which is hidden under heavy beaded lace, enveloping the figure and accentuating every curve. The top of the corset is embroidered with pearls and crystals. Exclusively available at Ellie Mae boutique.

Bouquet: A bolder take on a bridal bouquet, featuring a beautiful

pink chrysanthemum alongside berzelia berries, spray roses and an antique hydrangea, Alistair Floral Design.

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LUXURY LIFESTYLE

THROUGH LACE

Born and raised on the island, Elena Capel Cure left Malta’s shores years ago to move closer to her friends in West London. Little did she know that this would be the first step she made towards the launch of her luxury lifestyle brand, Blue Ribbons and Lace. She chats with Teri Spiteri to share more about the brand’s journey so far, and its plans for the future.

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“I

love styling, fashion and interiors, and I’m always looking for something quirky and unusual,” Elena “When I moved to West London, most of my friends were getting married and would call me to help them with the styling of their wedding dress. Some did not opt for a traditional wedding dress, but a number of separates in white,” she recalls.

She remembers that others were purchasing white, ivory or cream evening dresses from designers and platforms such as Net-a-Porter or Moda Operandi, but both Elena and her friends still felt they needed that something special – that extra push to convert them into a bride. “I remember one or two were very lucky to have heirloom tiaras or a lace veil, or in one case both. But many had neither to fall back on,” she laments.

This was the start of something special. Elena had helped out numerous friends by offering styling advice on their wedding day, and had listened to every one of them. She understood what they liked and didn’t like, and could tell that they were looking for something

particular which was not widely available ‒ namely, lace veils.

Lace veils have an interesting backstory, as it turns out.

They used to be a wedding accessory that was only available to the lucky few who had one in the family. Throughout the years, they remained a rare but coveted statement piece, with one or two popping up occasionally on the fashion runways of Paris or Milan.

Inspiration struck, and Elena set about launching a brand to fill the gap in the market. The result is lifestyle brand Blue Ribbons and Lace, inspired by chic, paredback aesthetics and timeless staples. Lace veils were the cornerstone of the business, the first in a series of products that set the brand apart from the competition. “Our lace veils are unique on the market. They are flawless and perfect,” she states with confidence.

Yet sourcing the veils was a challenge in itself, as Elena was determined to use only the best for her brand. “We managed to convince an international lace atelier, who works closely with international designers, to produce

“Making these lace veils by hand is a dying artform, as not many people want to take up this skill.”

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the veils especially for our brand. They, in turn, had to convince specialists to come back to work from retirement and set up the framework. Making these lace veils by hand is a dying artform, as not many people want to take up this skill,” she notes sadly.

This is surprising, as the brand’s pieces are in high demand, particularly among the millennial generation.

Elena’s customers are brides who want a wedding look that celebrates their personal style. They are fashion forward women who are looking for something unique and individual, while remaining traditional. In her own words, they are “girls who want to be a cool princess bride, without being over-the-top Disney.”

As the business grew, Elena continued to draw inspiration from those around her. The same group of friends who requested her styling services for their weddings went on to have children. “They asked me to source christening gowns which were simple and not over-the-top, made out of luxury lace and fabrics,” she remarks.

This led the brand to evolve and grow to accommodate a whole new area of business: a product line dedicated to children’s pieces. “One of my friends wanted something reminiscent of a royal christening gown. We asked the lace atelier to create a fabric with a vintage feel and gold thread, and the Czarina Christening Gown was born,” she smiles.

Many orders followed, and the line was a success, leading to the creation of two other gowns in the range: the Dauphin and the Princesa.

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“Work, children and travel will all form part of the brand. Blue Ribbons and Lace aims to be a lifestyle brand that reflects the way we live.”

The children’s line was only the beginning of the brand’s evolution, however. Today, the brand develops curated collections in the worlds of wedding accessories, girls’ party dresses and home accessories, always maintaining classic and vintage design as its core values.

Moving forward, Elena has plans to continue growing and expanding the business in the coming years, and new lines and categories are already in the pipeline. “We will definitely have more lace and new accessories which reflect the different aspects of life,” she explains. “Work, children and travel will all form part of the brand. Blue Ribbons and Lace aims to be a lifestyle brand that reflects the way we live.” www.blueribbonsandlace.co.uk

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A FEAST OF

CLASSIC STYLE Years after Rachel and Kurt Rapinett met while working in San Francisco, they decided to tie the knot in a timeless celebration. And Rachel’s bespoke wedding gown, designed and created by Luke Azzopardi, as well as her going-away jumpsuit by Eva Lendel, ticked all the boxes, as Rebecca Anastasi finds out.

P H OTO S B Y TO N I O LO M B A R D I

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MY DRESS

S

ome relationships are just meant to be – even when they don’t seem to start out that way. In 2014, Rachel was on a four-month work assignment in the Golden City of San Francisco in California when she met Kurt Rapinett, also from Malta, and who had also been sent on a project. They immediately became close friends, but nothing more, since they were both in steady relationships at the time.

“At the time we each had partners, but, after both of our long-term relationships ended, a couple of years after first meeting, we found refuge in each other, and our deep friendship developed into something more.” There were some initial hiccups, however.

“Getting together after coming out of long-term relationships wasn’t plain sailing, but none of our friends or family were surprised. Perhaps they could see we were soulmates and meant for each other,” Rachel smiles.

The couples’ solid friendship formed the foundation of their intimate relationship and sowed the seeds for the loyalty and devotion which followed. “Being friends, before lovers, helped us learn so much about each other,” Rachel says.

“We already had mutual friends and common interests, and we knew we could trust each other since we had often confided in each other about our problems prior to our relationship. We are still best friends, and we think our friendship is the backbone of our relationship,” she continues, adding that, even today, “we like nothing better than hanging out with each other.” The strength of these bonds was clear to both, she asserts: “We are each

other’s soulmates, so marriage was a natural step.”

The pair originally planned to get married in May 2020, so dress shopping, for Rachel, started the summer before, without knowing plans would be scuppered, with the wedding eventually taking place this summer. “I had tried on around 40 dresses, but none of them ticked all of the boxes! I’m very specific and know exactly what I want, so I then decided to collaborate with fashion designer Luke Azzopardi to create a custom-made couture wedding dress that was inspired by my vision and handmade just for me.

The atelier has defined new standards for couture locally, so it was the obvious choice for me,” Rachel explains.

The process involved creating mood boards and sharing them, together with “inspirational images”, with Luke, with the overall aim to create a dress which was timeless, elegant and intricate but also fun and youthful. “He understood the essence of what I wanted immediately and formed it into something truly beautiful and classy that combines glamour and simplicity,” Rachel continues.

“The final result was a long-sleeved gown made of ivory Chantilly lace, featuring a figure-hugging silhouette that fans out with a flowing mermaid train at the bottom. The train was left unlined to show off the detail of the lace. The gown was further embellished with Swarovski beaded floral-motif lace from Solstiss, which is the lace designer and creator of patterns for Grace Kelly’s and later for Kate Middleton’s wedding gowns,” the bride describes.

“I decided to collaborate with fashion designer Luke Azzopardi to create a custom-made couture wedding dress that was inspired by my vision and handmade just for me.”

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The dress was finished off with “pearl-beaded organza three-dimensional petals which were placed to emulate the design of the Calais-Caudry lace” while also boasting an “unlined fitted bodice, plunging low back and scalloped lace – edging strategically placed on the deep-V front – to give it a contemporary twist,” Rachel continues.

The accessories Rachel chose were selected to bolster the impact of the gown. “I’m a very detail-oriented person and I believe that bridal accessories can make or break the overall look. I felt that the dress spoke for itself, and the superimposed beaded lace already made it a kinetic piece of jewellery. So, I wanted my accessories to enhance my look, not compete with it, and I limited my jewellery to Chanel drop earrings.”

Kurt had proposed to Rachel with a rose gold engagement ring, and this became the colour-theme for the rest of the wedding. As a result, and in line with this, Rachel chose rose gold Dior shoes. “What I also love about the accessories that I chose is that I’ll definitely be able to wear them again on multiple occasions in the future,” Rachel says.

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“The final result was a long-sleeved gown made of ivory Chantilly lace, featuring a figure-hugging silhouette that fans out with a flowing mermaid train at the bottom.”

MY DRESS

“I’m a very detail-oriented person and I believe that bridal accessories can make or break the overall look.”

For the veil, the bride chose a cathedral length handstitched Chantilly lace, with her hair and makeup style designed to enrich the entire look. “I wanted my hair swept back to show off the low back. But I’m not into formal updos so I opted for a fishtail braid with a hair vine woven into it. This complemented the romantic feel of the gown. I kept my makeup natural as I wanted to look and feel like myself on the day,” she recalls.

The bridesmaids’ gowns were also selected with the bride’s wedding dress in mind. “The top part of the bridesmaids’ dress featured a floral applique lace to go with the floral theme of the wedding and the floral-motif lace of my gown. The skirt was a champagne tulle tiered skirt to reflect the clean colour palette of the wedding,” Rachel explains, adding that their look was also finished off with rose-gold accessories, in line with the bride’s selection.

On the day itself – which started out with a celebration at Ta’ Giezu Church in Valletta, followed by a reception at the Grand Harbour Terrace at the Mediterranean Conference Centre – the bride changed into a jumpsuit by Eva Lendel for the couple’s going away.

A WORD FROM

THE GROOM “I must admit I teared up when I saw her walking down the aisle. The gown was a reflection of her personal style and elegance. It was exactly the fit I imagined her in. And her going away outfit showed off more of her fun side.”

“I saw it on Instagram a couple of months before the wedding and I just had to have it! I thought it was stylish and original, and more suitable for travelling to our hotel for the evening,” Rachel recalls, explaining that the upper part of the jumpsuit was made of translucent fabric, decorated with lace patterns and featuring a deep V-shaped back as well as wide-leg white crepe-satin trousers with a high waist. “I would definitely recommend a second outfit to other brides, but only if it can be re-worn outside of a bridal context,” she advises.

And, after dancing and laughing the night away, confident in her two looks and having changed into her jumpsuit, the bride was taken aback to find out that Kurt had thought of a last revelation. “Kurt surprised me with fireworks at the end of the night! This injected that extra dose of magic into the send-off. In that moment, after two postponements and months of stress during which everything seemed to work against us, I remember feeling relieved and overjoyed that everything had worked well in the end.”

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WEDDING TRENDS

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As the wedding world breathes a sigh of relief following a lengthy period of restrictions, the excitement behind crafting a beautifully memorable day has never been higher. Sarah Muscat Azzopardi discovers the top trends to look out for.

Two-piece wedding dresses

The sit-down reception

Bridal separates have been a thing for a while but never more so than now.

One of their main selling points is the ability to transform a wedding outfit – going from a formal skirt for the ceremony to an elegant bridal trouser for the reception or shorter skirt to hit the dancefloor when it’s safe to do so.

While Maltese weddings are traditionally associated with standing events, pandemic restrictions have led many to opt for smaller, seated events to celebrate their big day – and have been pleasantly surprised. Once event restrictions ease, we’re not seeing this intimate trend go anywhere in a hurry.

Regency blue

Mulberry Market Designs

 A Regency period fascination inspired by popular TV series Bridgerton has made its way into the world of weddings, most notably in the use of Regency Blue. This dreamy signature shade looks stunning alongside a cottagecore aesthetic or eclectic French countryside theme.

Hey Wedding Lady

Delicate details

 Incorporating personal loves and passions through delicate details has been rising in popularity, from embroidered messages on veils to personalised wax seals and handwritten notes to guests.

Paying attention to delicate details also goes a long way toward making the wedding feel more luxurious and personal.

Alcohol-free drinks

 While it may come as a surprise to those who associate weddings with an open bar, couples today are placing a lot more emphasis on alcohol-free drinks.

Whether it’s to accommodate guests who are looking to lower their alcohol intake or to give their pregnant guests a nice option, alcohol-free alternatives are on the rise.

Extra Special Touch

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Etsy

Modern Wedding

WEDDING TRENDS

Earthy tones

A neutral colour palette of earthy tones looks set to dominate weddings in 2022, with rust being tipped as the colour of the year. Natural tones are also beautifully accented by earthy textures like terracotta, driftwood and linen, which look stunning incorporated into your table décor.

Dried flowers

While fresh flowers will never be out of style, dried flowers – for both bouquets and décor – look set to get bigger in 2022. They’re romantic, dreamy and make for a beautiful centrepiece, going on to last much longer than fresh flowers to boot.

Meaningful cake flavours

More couples are forgoing the traditional almond wedding cake for flavours that resonate with them. In keeping with the personalisation of weddings, a recent trend sees choices of meaningful flavours that bring back memories of a first date, nostalgic childhood days, or a favourite destination.

Green Wedding Shoes

Vintage metallics

Wedding creches

Metallics always feature prominently in the bridal world, but this year, it’s all about vintage metals like copper and gold. Working beautifully with the equally trendy neutral palette of earthy tones, vintage metallics look stunning on tables and throughout the rest of your wedding décor.

With international wedding vendors reporting an increase in searches for maternity wedding and guest dresses, many are expecting more children than ever to feature on 2022 guest lists.

So much so that this has given rise to a new trend: wedding creches or nannying services to keep both adults and kids happy!

Intimate Weddings

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HONEYMOON

NEWLYWEDS IN THE GREAT OUTDOORS Steve and Angela Scicluna are no strangers to travel. Having experienced culture and adventure in every corner of the globe, they hoped for a honeymoon that would tick all the boxes while bringing them even closer together. A three-week trip across Iceland and the Faroe Islands was just the ticket, as Teri Spiteri finds out.

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ike many other couples, Steve and Angela’s plans for a 2020 wedding and a honeymoon in British Columbia, Canada, were dashed by the pandemic ‒ but these two aren’t the type to dwell on what should have been. Once they had finally tied the knot on 12th June 2021, they spent a couple of nights in Gozo to decompress. That’s when the real planning started.

“We didn’t want to plan too far ahead because of the ever-changing COVID situation, so we put the whole honeymoon together in just three weeks. We only bought the flights five days before take-off!” they reveal.

Angela is a school teacher, and was finishing off the scholastic year while reading travel blogs and brainstorming ideas with her husband. “We both love the outdoors and wanted a honeymoon that offered a mix of adventure and relaxing luxury. We settled on the Faroe Islands and Iceland because they’re close to home,” she explains.

Steve, a freelance architect, fidgets in his seat. Five months after returning home, he’s still bursting with enthusiasm about their experience and is eager to share every detail and photo of the trip. “We flew into Denmark and spent the overnight layover in Billund, which is the home of Lego. Acting like kids at all the attractions was a great way to get into the holiday mood,” he grins.

The next morning, they kicked off their one-week stay in the Faroe Islands – a remote archipelago connected by underwater tunnels – that are home to 30,000 people and 70,000 sheep. Their first stop was Gasadalur, the most uninhabited of the islands, but it turns out that they needed a little help to get there. “There are only 30 houses on the island, it’s super remote, and the bus route we had banked on using to get there wasn’t working. Luckily, we met two locals at the airport who offered us a lift to our accommodation,” says Angela with a sigh of relief.

“We didn’t want to plan too far ahead because of the everchanging COVID situation, so we put the whole honeymoon together in just three weeks.”

They spent the next two days taking in the magical simplicity of the islands, hiking around silky waterfalls and getting to know the friendly locals. “We took a ferry out to Mykines Island, known as Puffin Island, and hiked up the mountain in thick fog which cleared just as we reached the pinnacle. The view was out of this world,” Steve recalls.

Another highlight was the Trælanípa trek, which offered dramatic, Daliesque views of Lake Sørvágsvatn which appears to be perched high above the Atlantic Ocean.

Their next stop was Tórshavn, one of the smallest capital cities in the world that’s brimming with colourful houses and quaint restaurants serving excellent food. On a ‘Hook & Cook’ fishing experience, Angela struggled to reel in a six-kilo cod – one of 12 caught by the honeymooners, to the tour guide’s surprise. “You’re meant to cook and eat the fish you catch on the day, but we had so many that we gave most of them to our guide to share with his family,” she smiled.

They did keep an extra portion for themselves though, and it made for the perfect home-cooked dinner the following night in their secluded cottage in Vidareidi. “It’s the northernmost part of the islands, and we spent our last

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“We took a ferry out to Mykines Island, known as Puffin Island, and hiked up the mountain in thick fog which cleared just as we reached the pinnacle.”

day trekking the highest peak in the area: Villingardalsfjall.

Once we got to the top, Angela was quite nervous because I kept taking photos while teetering on the edge. It was totally worth it though. The views were breath-taking,” says Steve, as Angela nods in reluctant agreement.

With their first week over, they made their way to Iceland, starting with two days in the coastal capital of Reykjavik. “We fell in love with this city,” they gush, adding that they’re both avid foodies. “It’s cool and refined, packed with excellent gastrobars offering a range of international cuisines. We never stopped eating, and everything was divine. Everything except the fermented shark, that is,” Angela scowls, referring to the local hákarl delicacy that’s known for its acquired taste.

Their gastronomic experiences in the city varied from Michelin star restaurants to a popular street food which quickly became a staple during their two-week stay: the

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famous Icelandic hot dog. “You have to order ‘one with everything’ – they’re delicious and addictive,” they explain, “we even packed some to cook ourselves on the next leg of the trip.”

That next leg would be their rugged and highly recommended approach to seeing the country: driving the Ring Road in a campervan. Their trusty steed came equipped with a kitchen, fridge, heating system and a bench that converts into a double bed.

“It’s the best way to see Iceland. If you only stay in hotels, you’ll not only spend a lot more money, but you’ll also miss out on a lot of what the country has to offer. We would wake up right next to the most beautiful lakes and waterfalls, and being already so close to nature meant that we didn’t have to leave the hotel early to start our day,” Steve reasons, confirming that the designated campsites were fully equipped with comfortable toilets and showers.

They started with the Golden Circle, visiting Geysir and stopping in Silfra for one of the coolest experiences of the trip (pun intended). “Silfra is the only place in the world where two tectonic plates meet above sea level. It’s called a fissure, a crevice in the ground that widens by one metre every year. We’re scuba divers, so when we heard that you could dive in the fissure, we just had to go,” says Angela.

Steve interjects, “this was a crazy story actually: we found out quite late that you need both open water and drysuit certifications to dive in Silfra, so we were clamouring to complete the courses just a couple of days before we left Malta. We’re so glad we managed! These glacier waters are ice cold at 2°C and among the clearest in the world, with visibility of 120 metres. It’s like watching TV in 8K. To put

HONEYMOON

this into perspective, Malta’s underwater visibility is 20-30 metres on a good day,” he explains.

Their next stop was the West Fjords, a stop that most tourists bypass due to the long drive with disastrous road conditions. Nevertheless, Steve and Angela insist that it was worth every mile of sheer panoramic beauty. “It’s quite something to drive on a road with the ocean on one side and a lake on the other. Plus, we got to see the most magnificent waterfall, known as the ‘bridal dress’.”

Their road trip continued up North to the fishing village of Husavik, where the couple enjoyed some whale watching before driving Eastward to Studfall Canyon. Steve is emphatic: “I can’t recommend this National Park enough.

We trekked through unique volcanic rock formations, waterfalls and caves which you can even view from a skywalk. The scenery is beyond words.”

Further south, the pair was mesmerised by Diamond Beach, a black sand shore dotted with hunks of glacier ice that were carried downstream. They then followed that stream up to the source, getting a front-row seat to the tragic effects of climate change on a guided glacier hike.

Their carefully planned road trip culminated in the honeymoon experience they had been looking forward to: a night in the Buubble, known as the ‘5 Million Star Hotel’.

“You sleep in a transparent inflatable bubble in the middle of the forest, completely cut off from anyone else. It’s just you and nature, but with a hint of luxury,” Angela explains. “We were lucky to experience some rain while we were there, and being amidst all those sights and sounds while you cosy up with champagne and strawberries was magical.”

After a cosy night under the stars, they extended their indulgent experience in Grindavik, home of the famous geothermal seawater pool called The Blue Lagoon. After three weeks of outdoorsy adventure, the newlyweds treated themselves to a luxurious spa day followed by a delectable Michelin star meal.

Just when they thought their trip was over, they were given one last opportunity of a lifetime. “We thought we were done for the night, but suddenly realised that the volcano nearby was erupting! We had hoped to see this

“[The campervan is] the best way to see Iceland. If you only stay in hotels, you’ll not only spend a lot more money, but you’ll also miss out on a lot of what the country has to offer.”

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“We thought we were done for the night, but suddenly realised that the volcano nearby was erupting!” phenomenon up close the day before but had no such luck.

So, with skin covered in essential oils and bellies stuffed with food, we quickly changed back into our hiking gear and set off up the mountain,” Angela beams.

At that time of year, the sun never quite sets on Iceland, so it turns out that 10pm is as good a time as any to hike up a volcano. While Steve made an effort to truly enjoy the experience with a full stomach, Angela was exhilarated.

“Being so close to the bright red eruption and hearing the lava bubbling and sloshing around under your feet has got to be the highlight of the trip for me. I was blown away,” she says.

Looking back on three weeks of adventure, the couple have certainly collected some wonderful memories to cherish. The best part, however, was banking plenty of quality time. The couple share a sweet smile as they explain, “we’re so busy with work back home that we love any opportunity to spend time together, and this trip was perfect for that. All that driving meant that we had lots of time to connect and sharing such cramped quarters in the campervan made for a very intimate few weeks.”

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HOME DECOR

THE ART OF THE HOME Combining quality with affordability, Art at Home has helped homeowners furnish their spaces with style for over 25 years. General Manager Neville Refalo explains how this family-run furniture firm is still transforming homes with everything from lighting to sofas – and so much more.

P H OTO S B Y I N I G O TAY LO R

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or the team at Art at Home, furniture is so much more than simple function. In fact – it is art, inspiring the name of a company that, after more than 25 years in operation, is now synonymous with quality, expertise and customer care.

That is not to say that the vast range of quality products offered by Art at Home have prices beyond the means of most homeowners: quite the contrary, as the company’s General Manager Neville Refalo points out.

“We sell everything to fill a whole house apart from bathrooms, with different packages to fit every budget,” he says. “We understand that, nowadays, it is very difficult for young couples or newlyweds, for instance, to own their home and have the most expensive furniture. Property prices have risen and we Maltese love to own our home, not just rent it. So, bearing in mind the struggles most people face when buying property, we make sure to offer high-quality items at competitive prices that don’t break the bank.”

Established in 1995, Art at Home is a family-run business that has not just turned furniture into an art form, but its customer experience as well. “Over the years, we have become renowned for our stellar service,” continues Mr Refalo, adding that the company specialises in custommade furniture produced in their own factory and has a number of stores in different areas around Malta. “This helps as it means that almost all of our items are in-stock and ready to be delivered to our customers.”

“Our team of professionals can offer great advice on every aspect of home décor, with honesty, authenticity and integrity. These are values I harp on every day and which we have continued to build on since I joined the company ‒ although they were already ingrained beforehand. I can never accept a customer not being happy with any of our products or services. It is a cliché to say that ‘the client is always right’, but everyone on our team lives by that mantra day after day. Customers who visit our showroom do so

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again and again, as they know they will receive excellent service before, during and after sales. And we always keep in mind how the customer thinks and feels, in every aspect right down to how we select our products.”

Each item in the Art at Home range – which includes ready-made and custom-made bedrooms and kitchens, sofas, chairs and lighting fixtures – is carefully hand-picked by experts. Ensuring diversity and innovation, the team caters for the variety of local tastes and ideas by experiencing items first-hand, as Mr Refalo explains.

“We choose all the products ourselves and test them individually. We frequently travel overseas to view a single item if we believe in it, so that we can see it, touch it, try it and be sure about it. Our commitment to quality means that we want to personally vouch for every one of our products – and, with that knowledge, we are more equipped to provide our customers with an unparalleled service and better value for money. We strive to sell the best quality for the price the client is paying, whether it is for a small vase or an entire apartment package,” he explains.

With such dedication to bespoke service and quality products, backed by decades of experience, what advice can the expert Art at Home team offer to homeowners, particularly young couples starting out in their new home or those adapting their property for a growing family?

“My best advice would be to think ahead,” answers Mr Refalo. “As with many other consumables, even furniture has a lifetime in both materials and aesthetics. There are trends for bedrooms and kitchens that may seem very beautiful in that moment but, after a couple of years, might feel outdated. So, before choosing a bedroom, you need to decide how long you intend to use it. It is much better to buy a modern but plain bedroom that can stand the test of time, and maybe change the colours of the décor in the room by replacing rugs, quilts or curtains.”

Budgeting is also important, particularly when buying furniture intended for long-term use. “Most of the time, cheap is expensive,” highlights Mr Refalo. “If you want a room to last through daily wear and tear, you cannot base the choice on price alone. Items that are cheap in both price and quality tend to need frequent replacement. It is better

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“I can never accept a customer not being happy with any of our products or services. It is a cliché to say that ‘the client is always right’, but everyone on our team lives by this mantra day after day.” to spend an extra €100 on higher quality and save money in the long run.”

The Art at Home team’s visits to different countries for new home furniture, meanwhile, make sure that the business stays updated on the latest trends in the local and international industry. Yet, the company’s quarter-of-acentury-long history has also afforded the team a unique understanding of the values of Maltese homeowners, allowing them to anticipate what products may or may not work locally.

“Over the years we have not only tracked down industry trends, but also developed them to create innovative

furnishing designs with the Maltese market in mind,” concludes Mr Refalo. “Maltese people have their own values and treasure their homes in a way unlike most others. Of course, we must also prepare and cater for the many nonMaltese people living here, who also look to buy high-end furniture for their homes. As a proud generator of change, Art at Home continues to fabricate and provide furniture and decorative pieces that will ensure both comfort and function in people’s homes, for many years to come.”

More information about Art at Home may be found online at www.artathome.com.mt

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REAL HOME

A PLACE WITH MEANING Bettina Pace Ricci and Paul Sapienza talk Sarah Muscat Azzopardi through their impressive home renovation – splitting a traditional townhouse dating back to the early 1900s into two contemporary apartments brimming with their distinctly eclectic style and character.

P H OTO S B Y A L A N C A RV I L L E

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espite being in their 20s, enthusiastic young couple Bettina Pace Ricci and Paul Sapienza are not new to the property game. Having purchased – and flipped – their first property together in 2014, the couple caught the renovation bug, and haven’t been without a project since.

“Once we got onto the property ladder, it’s been one project after another,” reveals Bettina, who works in marketing – so much so that fiancé Paul has turned it into a career.

After studying accounting, Paul admits that he quickly realised it wasn’t for him, going on to get a job with a local architecture firm, where he fell into a project management role. After a few years of working on project management and property valuations, he’s now turned his attention to real estate. “I’ve found my niche, and it is definitely property!”

The couple’s first property, a maisonette in Sliema, was what Bettina describes as “a real diamond in the rough” and while many questioned their decision to buy it, they saw its potential, and went

on to successfully flip it and sell it on within a year.

At the time, Paul says, the property market was experiencing a boom, and the couple’s original intention was to move out of Sliema and buy a place in the countryside.

But, as luck would have it, an unconverted townhouse dating back to the early 1900s proved too good to miss.

“As soon as we sold it, this property came up for sale at a bargain price. We couldn’t turn it down,” he recalls, explaining that the house which they now call home was three times the size of their previous place, so proved a serious upgrade.

Still, as the pair would discover, you can have too much of a good thing. “As we started working on the house, we realised that it was just too much space for what we need,” explains Paul – a realisation that would spur the young couple to change their plans.

“Paul originally designed it as a full house, before we decided to split it up into two apartments,” Bettina reveals, describing the process as one that was constantly developing.

“Paul originally designed it as a full house, before we decided to split it up into two apartments.”

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“We had so much fun working on it together, eating loads of pizza in the process.”

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Now, as you enter the house at ground floor, you’re greeted by an entryway opening up to a grand staircase which is original to the house. This leads up to a twobedroom apartment on the first floor, while upstairs, where the roof and a small washroom used to be, is a one-bedroom studio apartment which the couple calls home.

The pair also reveal that they’re in the process of purchasing the three shops along the front of the house, which is set on a corner. “That will be our next project,” they laugh, with Paul revealing that he looks forward to having a garage within the property to house his other passion: classic cars.

Looking back on the property’s interesting history, Paul explains, “it was originally one house, until it eventually got split up into four – incorporating three shops along the front of the property,” revealing that one of them was quite a famous bar, owing to a special association with World War II air raid warden Mary Ellul, popularly known as ‘Mary the Man’.

During the war, Mary was celebrated for rescuing people from under the rubble of collapsed buildings, and after it, became known for her unique way of dealing with rowdy sailors – by chucking them into the Sliema sea when she worked as a bouncer – from bars like this very one downstairs, Paul explains.

Nowadays a lot more peaceful, this particular area in Sliema is also a plus for the couple, who admit their preference for a quiet locality. “It really feels like a village

REAL HOME

“We have a real mixture of things because we’ve both developed a particular eye – we know that whatever it is, is going to influence the entire space.”

here. All sorts of hawkers, including a fishmonger and the bigilla van, come around regularly,” they say, and the neighbours all know each other. “The area is UCA, and we love it – it’s convenient and while it’s not countryside, it’s close to the sea,” adds Paul.

The studio apartment, in which the couple currently live, features an open-plan layout which makes everything easily visible – from the living area, you can see the bedroom on the left, and the kitchen and dining space on the right.

Further on the left, the bathroom is concealed within a partition separating the space from the stairwell, and on the right, a terrace wraps around the apartment.

Their approach to the conversion of the property had a lot to do with respecting the building’s heritage, being careful to retain as much of the Maltese character as they could while making the property energy efficient.

For a corner house with lots of apertures, it involved a lot of sanding, they laugh, revealing, “it seemed like doors and windows were just coming out of everywhere!”

This is where Paul’s dad stepped in to lend a hand. “We couldn’t have done it without my dad,” Paul says, smiling, “he did the stuff we didn’t want to!” Nodding in agreement, Bettina adds, “he took it on as his own project, and he’s very detail-oriented, so he went to a level of detail which we wouldn’t have managed ourselves!”

The pair finally moved in in December 2018, originally living in the first-floor apartment, while the top floor remained unfinished, simply tiled and plastered. “We had decided mid-way through construction that we would split the house into apartments, and eventually live on the top floor,” says Paul, as Bettina qualifies, “the key word being eventually, because we needed a break by then!”

And after taking some time off from their home project, the onset of the pandemic last year proved to be the perfect opportunity for the couple to dedicate themselves to it once more.

“We had started working on the studio pre-pandemic, but COVID gave us the push we needed to really get going,” says Paul, explaining that they had ordered the kitchen in November for delivery in April, to coincide with their first tenant moving into the downstairs apartment. As it turns out however, the kitchen ended up being delivered a couple of months late, forcing the two to, once again, get creative.

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“People would call us up and say, ‘my nanna is moving out of her house, would you like to come and see if there’s anything you need?’”

“We had to wash the dishes in the bathroom sink which was a bit of a nightmare,” laughs Bettina, adding that all was well in the end, true to the couple’s laidback nature.

“When the pandemic forced us to lock ourselves in, we worked on it together – we built the wardrobe, which serves as a partition between the bedroom and kitchen, and that really motivated us to get started again. We had so much fun working on it together, eating loads of pizza in the process,” she continues affectionately.

And now that the couple have taken the plunge to downsize, they admit to having fallen in love with tiny living.

“There’s not a day that goes by in which I’m not thankful for having a tiny space. We both grew up in houses, so we weren’t sure how we would adjust, but we really love it,” says Bettina, who admits that it also makes you more selective when you’re choosing things for the house.

“You want everything to be a nice object that you like, because one bad choice can spoil the entire space. We have a real mixture of things because we’ve both developed a particular eye – we know that whatever it is, is going to influence the entire space,” she maintains.

When it comes to décor, Bettina has no qualms admitting that it’s majorly second hand. “We spent most of our savings on the conversion, so when it came to furnish,

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we just went with what came our way. People would call us up and say, ‘my nanna is moving out of her house, would you like to come and see if there’s anything you need?’” she smiles, laughing, “everyone was really generous, including our parents and grandparents.”

“The quirks are what make the house so special,” she continues, highlighting particular pieces that the couple have collected and adapted over the years, including a deskturned-vanity in the bathroom, and a pair of mismatched bedside tables. “One is homemade, that I made for Paul for his birthday, and the other one came with the house,” Bettina says, admitting, “I’m sure some people must walk in and think something looks a bit funny, but I just love each and every item.”

“You can’t be afraid of colour, either!” adds Paul, which immediately elicits a laugh from Bettina. Exchanging a conspiratorial glance, they share another of their many stories. “When we chose the green for the door, the carpenter actually called us to make sure we’d given him the right shade,” they share, recalling that he wouldn’t proceed until Paul went to his workshop in person to give him the go ahead.

Ultimately, the couple describe the finished effect as eclectic but, more importantly, meaningful, and are at pains to pick particular items that stand out more than others.

Among them, they can’t help but mention the “gigantic fish” in the kitchen which Bettina found on Facebook Marketplace, “George the goose lampshade” which they bought from Paris when they got engaged, as well as posters from Paul’s grandfather’s old bookshop and paintings by friends, including a showstopper by promising young artist Martina Mifsud in the living room.

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As for their favourite parts of the house, Bettina chooses the terrace, where she works, exercises and enjoys her morning coffee. “I love seeing the greenery out here. The plants all grew from little sprouts, they’re like our babies!”

For Paul, it’s the staircase. “Looking down from above, you can see all the different patterns – the tiles on the first floor are one pattern, alongside the tiles in the different rooms, which are a different pattern… lots of little details, including the different finish on each level of the stairs themselves.”

And as we reach the end of our chat, I ask, is there anything that the experience has taught them, that they’d share with other couples looking to purchase their own property?

“We’d definitely encourage anyone to respect traditional architecture and see the potential in old Maltese buildings.

They’re unique, and resale value is better than an apartment, so it does pay off too,” says Paul, ever the practical one – to which Bettina adds, “nothing compares to the feeling of a place in which you can see remnants of the past. You just have to see the potential to spot a diamond in the rough.”

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HOME DECOR

HOME INTERIOR TRENDS 2022:

REVELATIONS BORN FROM SOLITUDE As a direct response to what we’ve all been missing since the coronavirus pandemic hit, the home interior trends for 2022 are all about objects and design with sustainability and circularity at heart. It has been a time for designers to experience revelations born from the solitude of quiet contemplation to create truly functional, striking products and spaces.

Think technical innovation, material exploration, and, perhaps most interestingly, community. As an acknowledgment of the ongoing isolation that the world has endured, design this year is inspired by touch and interaction, grounded by an earthy, natural composition, as Lisa Borain discovers.

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Croma, floor lamp designed by Luca Nichetto for Lodes

01. Different Shades of Green

Although highly symbolic on so many levels, the most obvious thing about green is that it’s reminiscent of nature and represents sustainability. 2022 will be bringing us different shades of green in the most celebrated new furniture pieces and designed spaces.

02. Earth

Nature is and always will be a huge source of inspiration in design, but now so more than ever due to our reintroduction to the great outdoors. Expect to see more products which are reminiscent of aspects in nature and are made of sustainable materials. Spaces which encourage and appreciate interaction with our external surroundings are also on the rise.

Glasshouse wallpaper collection by Sanderson

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03. Polka Dots

After the emergence from a sombre time, there is always going to be a playful side of design to bring out the quirkiness in people. The polka dot pattern will make a big comeback in 2022 with its lively and animated associations.

04. 90s Urban Style

This look is all about the street art movement that started in the ‘90s: colourful furniture with very minimalistic yet space-age design. Bold accents, such as neon signs, animal prints, geometry, rounded shapes, a new reading of the classics – and even a bit of kitsch – complete this style.

Think Banksy meets Space Odyssey.

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Zuma, a smart home system that completely hides wires and tools in a striking ceiling design

05. Smart Design The pandemic brought about a new consumer: one that appreciates a comfortable, high tech home office. As a result, some brilliant smart furniture designs are unfolding, which offer digital or automated features.

06. Colours of the Year The Pantone Fashion Colour Trend Report Spring/ Summer 2022 features 10 popping colours that will help create vibrant and bold offerings into the home design space next year. Bright, cheery, electric, and arresting, the colours are Cascade, Coral Rose, Super Sonic, Popcorn, Potpourri, Bubblegum, Orchid Bloom, Sudan Brown, Fragile Sprout, and Coffee Quartz.

Covet House

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