I DO July 2016

NEWSPAPER POST

JULY 2016 | ISSUE NO 61 | ¤2.50

I DO JULY 2016 ISSUE NO 61

Summer Loving 8 PAGES BRIDAL FASHION

NEW COLLECTION

Coliseum Arcades, Zachary Street, Valletta – Tel: 2122 4234 • Email: weddingbells@sis.net.mt • Website: WeddingBells.bridemalta.com • www.theweddingsite.com/weddingbells LIKE US ON www.facebook/weddingbells.valletta

weddings@popeyemalta.com

Popeye Village Malta Weddings

Contact us to book your appointment 307, Triq il-Kbira San Guzepp, St’ Venera T:2730 9108 M: 7931 8987 E: info@evamariee.com W: www.evamariee.com

welcome

W

e’re back with another packed issue for summer 2016 surely to inspire you when planning, dress shopping and brain storming ideas for gorgeous celebrations.

This issue, I Do has chosen the iconic location of Popeye Village for another stunning photoshoot. Through WeddingBells, we’re also bringing you designer inspiration from the Anna Romysh show at the Mercedes Benz Malta Fashion Week and freshly baked ideas from a new designer store on the market – Lilly Lou. We’ve also rounded up five of the most inspirational wedding stories of the year hoping these give you the answers for your wedding related questions and much more.

Are you nervous about facing the camera at your wedding? Don’t be because here’s the trick. There’s a specific technique actors use to look perfect and confident in every photo. Tighten your eyes as if you were going to squint and slightly relax your top lids – it’s almost like smiling with your eyes.

It’s okay to feel nervous but don’t be afraid to act silly. Search through Pinterest boards and save what you like.

Make sure to return to them before your special day.

Themes for engagements or prewedding photo shoots can make your photos stand out. This, coupled with a special place that has meaning and candid photos will create the perfect combination.

I Do team, Annaliza & Elaine

THIS PAGE This mermaid wedding dress with a long train of tulle and lace that provocatively highlights the feminine silhouette.

Oozing femmininity and sensuality, this wedding dress impresses with its simplicity and innovative design. Dress exclusively available at EVA MARIEE COVER Two Stella York dresses in one! Wear this luxurious above-knee lace dress with a floor length royal organza princess skirt made from layers of tulle. After the ceremony, celebrate with your friends and family sans tulle skirt, to dance the night away in comfort. The back features beaded illusion lace that zips up under coordinating pearl buttons. Dress exclusively available at EVA MARIEE

‘When you realise you want to spend the rest of your life with somebody, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible’ – When Harry Met Sally

Get in touch with us on Facebook www.facebook.com/IDoBridalMagazineMalta

I DO JULY 2016 ISSUE NO 61

PUBLISHED BY Standard Publications Ltd, Standard House, Birkirkara Hill, St Julian’s STJ 1149, T 21345888, F 21344884 FOR EDITORIAL CONTENT AND STORIES CONTACT THE I DO TEAM ido@independent.com.mt DESIGN Christine Spiteri, Sean Ellul, Conrad Bondin ADVERTISING Marcelle Portelli PRINTER PrintIT

welcome

W

e’re back with another packed issue for summer 2016 surely to inspire you when planning, dress shopping and brain storming ideas for gorgeous celebrations.

This issue, I Do has chosen the iconic location of Popeye Village for another stunning photoshoot. Through WeddingBells, we’re also bringing you designer inspiration from the Anna Romysh show at the Mercedes Benz Malta Fashion Week and freshly baked ideas from a new designer store on the market – Lilly Lou. We’ve also rounded up five of the most inspirational wedding stories of the year hoping these give you the answers for your wedding related questions and much more.

Are you nervous about facing the camera at your wedding? Don’t be because here’s the trick. There’s a specific technique actors use to look perfect and confident in every photo. Tighten your eyes as if you were going to squint and slightly relax your top lids – it’s almost like smiling with your eyes.

It’s okay to feel nervous but don’t be afraid to act silly. Search through Pinterest boards and save what you like.

Make sure to return to them before your special day.

Themes for engagements or prewedding photo shoots can make your photos stand out. This, coupled with a special place that has meaning and candid photos will create the perfect combination.

I Do team, Annaliza & Elaine

THIS PAGE This mermaid wedding dress with a long train of tulle and lace that provocatively highlights the feminine silhouette.

Oozing femmininity and sensuality, this wedding dress impresses with its simplicity and innovative design. Dress exclusively available at EVA MARIEE COVER Two Stella York dresses in one! Wear this luxurious above-knee lace dress with a floor length royal organza princess skirt made from layers of tulle. After the ceremony, celebrate with your friends and family sans tulle skirt, to dance the night away in comfort. The back features beaded illusion lace that zips up under coordinating pearl buttons. Dress exclusively available at EVA MARIEE

‘When you realise you want to spend the rest of your life with somebody, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible’ – When Harry Met Sally

Get in touch with us on Facebook www.facebook.com/IDoBridalMagazineMalta

I DO JULY 2016 ISSUE NO 61

PUBLISHED BY Standard Publications Ltd, Standard House, Birkirkara Hill, St Julian’s STJ 1149, T 21345888, F 21344884 FOR EDITORIAL CONTENT AND STORIES CONTACT THE I DO TEAM ido@independent.com.mt DESIGN Christine Spiteri, Sean Ellul, Conrad Bondin ADVERTISING Marcelle Portelli PRINTER PrintIT

Have you always wanted a couture dress with a fraction of the price? Here is this stunning off shoulder wedding dress. The lacey details are amazing. The dress has a very tight fit, for that bride that wants to show off her figure. Dress exclusively available at EVA MARIEE

Summer Loving Photography Bernard Polidano Make up Natasha Polidano Gowns Eva Mariee Bridal Exclusive Hair Styling MAF Hairdressing Flowers Joseph Baldacchino from Flower Arts Studio

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Two Stella York dresses in one! Wear this luxurious above-knee lace dress with a floor length royal organza princess skirt made from layers of tulle. After the ceremony, celebrate with your friends and family sans tulle skirt, to dance the night away in comfort. The back features beaded illusion lace that zips up under coordinating pearl buttons. Dress exclusively available at EVA MARIEE

THIS PAGE AND TOP FACING Have you always wanted a couture dress with a fraction of the price? Here is this stunning off shoulder wedding dress. The lacey details are amazing. The dress has a very tight fit, for that bride that wants to show off her figure. Dress exclusively available at EVA MARIEE

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THIS PAGE AND FACING Two Stella York dresses in one! Wear this luxurious above-knee lace dress with a floor length royal organza princess skirt made from layers of tulle. After the ceremony, celebrate with your friends and family sans tulle skirt, to dance the night away in comfort. The back features beaded illusion lace that zips up under coordinating pearl buttons. Dress exclusively available at EVA MARIEE

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THIS PAGE Maitza from the PRONOVIAS 2015 Dreams Collection. Dress in lace and tulle with gemstone embroidery appliqués.

Bodice with soft sweetheart neckline and tulle skirt with frills. EXCLUSIVELY AVAILABLE AT PRONOVIAS. OPPOSITE Marianella from the PRONOVIAS 2015 Modern Bride Collection. Lace and tulle mermaid dress. Draped bodice with a sweetheart neckline, straps and lace appliqués. Skirt with irregular organza tulle with different edges. EXCLUSIVELY AVAILABLE AT PRONOVIAS.

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This mermaid wedding dress with a long train of tulle and lace that provocatively highlights the feminine silhouette.

Oozing femmininity and sensuality, this wedding dress impresses with its simplicity and innovative design. Dress exclusively available at EVA MARIEE

PHOTOGRAPHY Bernard Polidano 7947 2559 www.bernardpolidano.tumblr.com BRIDAL OUTFITTING EVA MARIEE BRIDAL EXCLUSIVE 2730 9108, 7931 8987 HAIR STYLING Christian Mifsud MAF Hairdressing 2144 0772, 9944 6929 www.mafhairdressing.com MAKE-UP Natasha Polidano 9989 9760 FLORISTS Joseph Baldacchino from Flower Arts Studio 2726 0645, 2125 0645, 9926 0645 info@flowerarts.net www.flowerarts.net SHOT ON LOCATION Popeye Village (Anchor Bay) Joseph Borg 2152 4782/3/4, 7952 4782 weddings@popeyemalta.com MODEL Nikolett Uracs at Supernova Model Management

Something New, Something Old, Something Bloom & Something Borrowed At Romano Cassar we are passionate about our work. With a particular enthusiasm for wedding arrangements, the team approaches each bridal bouquet with the aim of creating the ultimate romantic statement. Whether it is a bold assortment of cascading blooms or a delicate ensemble of tiny classic buds, each element is tailored to the celebration at hand.

romanocassar.com Romano Cassar Ltd. 24, Hammieri Road, Qormi. QRM1509 Tel: +356 21441264 / Mob: +356 79373100

find us on facebook

the couple SOLANGE

&ANTOINE Solange Casha, 30, Cafeteria Manager and Antoine Magri, 31, Self-employed

5 September 2015 WEDDING MASS HELD AT BALLUTA CHURCH AND RECEPTION HELD AT GRAND HOTEL EXCELSIOR PHOTOS Rene Rossignaud

BLACK LACE

&

yellow notes I DO 17

S

olange Casha and Antoine Magri had been together for nine years before getting married. It was during a brief time that they broke up that they realised they were made for each other. Antoine had popped the million dollar question some time after they got back together.

The proposal took place in the couple’s new home. Antoine decorated the apartment himself with tea light candles along the corridor and flower petals on the bed.

Coldpay’s song Yellow played in the

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background while he asked Solange to be his wife. The song was then used for the newlyweds’ first dance during the wedding.

Solange and Antoine tied the knot on 5th September last year. The theme chosen for the wedding was black lace. This was reflected in the bridal party’s clothing, the bride’s shoes and the wedding cake.

The wedding mass was held at the church dedicated to Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Ballutta bay since both liked the church’s unique interior and exterior, as well as its location. It was also ideal because they

wanted classical music to be played during their wedding mass so they could make use of the church’s organ. With her angelic voice, Soprano Claire Caruana, provided by Tunin Entertainment animated the mass celebrated

by Father Joseph Ciappara.

The bride wore a very simple mermaid style dress with tulle by WeddingBells. She added a simple belt with pearls and Swarovski crystals on the waist and had an ivory beaded shawl which flowed from shoulder to shoulder for the church ceremony.

The groom’s suit was by Bortex.

He wore a blue dinner jacket with a black silky collar and black trousers. The groomsmen’s suits were hired from The Knot. They wore grey dinner jackets with black silky collars.

The reception took place at the Admirals Landing of the Grand Hotel Excelsior in Floriana. Both the bride and groom fell in love with the venue upon the first time they visited it. They wanted a venue which is able to fit around 350-400 guests and which offered an indoor alternative in case of bad weather.

Most importantly, they wanted the venue to enjoy a breathtaking view.

The Admirals Landing fitted all the criteria, with its location overlooking Marsamxetto creek.

Being a fan of classic cars, Antoine’s brother-in-law helped the couple hire three beautiful classic cars to transport the wedding party to the church and venue. Antoine together with his mother, brothers and sister used a 1968 Ford Mustang. Antoine’s brother-in-law and bestman together with his son used a Chevrolet Corvette and Solange’s sister and witness, used a Triumph MG. Each guest was given souvenirs from a selection of ties, bow ties and cufflinks for the men, and lip sticks, necklaces, pocket mirrors, earrings and lipstick boxes for the women. The couple also gave a donation to Inspire Foundation.

Since both had their birthdays on the wedding day, Solange on the 5th of September and Antoine on the 6th September, they also cut a birthday cake before cutting the wedding cake.

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Antoine’s uncle Ninu also joined in the fun as he shares his birthday with the groom.

Florist Julie Lupi took care of decorating both the church and venue with lovely bouquets of colourful flowers.

During the first part of the wedding, guests were entertained with jazz music played by Nadine Axisa accompanied by a pianist.

Then Crosswalk took over playing two hours of non-stop music for guests to dance the night away.

Both acts were provided by Tunin Entertainment with Crosswalk being one of their exclusive bands. For their first dance as newlyweds, Solange and Antoine chose Coldplay’s song Yellow.

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The after party at Haywharf Clubhouse was Antoine’s surprise birthday present for Solange. The guests partied on till the early hours of the morning!

A funny moment was during the going away when the groom was lifted by his friends. That part of the venue had a lower ceiling. The groom ended up bumping his head to a Fire Exit sign. He was left with a red bump throughout the after party and the following day!

Solange and Antoine went on a 17 day self-guided tour to Iceland for their honeymoon.

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BURGUNDY&PEARLS

the couple NICOLETTE

&JAKE

Nicolette Micallef, 31, Managing partner at ConServ & Co. and Jake Debono, 29, Sales at Le Meridien Hotel & Spa

11 July 2015 NUPTIAL MASS HELD AT ATTARD PARISH CHURCH AND RECEPTION HELD AT OSBORNE CATERER’S VILLA ARRIGO. PHOTOS Martin Abela of Martins Is The Name

I

t was New Year’s Eve of 2012 when at the stroke of midnight Jake Debono told his girlfriend Nicolette Micallef that he wanted to spend the rest of his life with her. They had only been together for three months so naturally, Nicolette did not take him very seriously and laughed it off. The two had met over a blind date set up by a mutual friend.

After around two months, Nicolette reminded Jake of the episode on New Year’s Eve, checking whether he really meant those words. Jake insisted that he seriously meant those words and he also meant to marry her.

Nicolette and Jake tied the knot on 11 July last year. They wanted a classic wedding with lots of surprises and a colour palette of burgundy and pearl. The colours featured throughout the wedding including the invitations received by the guests.

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The nuptial mas was held at Attard Parish Church as both like typical Maltese churches. Mass was celebrated by Fr Alfred Vella.

Both the bride and groom were keen on tying the knot in an old fashioned church surrounded by lots of flowers. During the vows the newlyweds exchanged two-toned white and rose gold wedding rings. Nicolette’s brother, Matthew of Coronation Candles, handmade a unity candle which was used during the wedding mass.

Classical church hymns were played by a harpist. Sticking to tradition, the couple had rice instead of confetti, thrown at them for good luck, as they walked out of the church.

The wedding reception for 40 guests was held at Osborne Caterer’s Villa Arrigo. The couple had fallen in love with the venue immediately especially with its lower gardens. In fact, they had booked the venue for their big day, even before Jake joined the Osborne Caterers’ team.

Once again, lots of flowers were used to decorate the venue to achieve a classic setup with a modern twist.

Candles placed in jars hanging from trees were used to add to the romantic atmosphere. An old refurbished wooden window was used so guests could pin postcards with well wishes to it, instead of the traditional guest book. Blown up swans were seen floating on the venue’s pond. Personalised napkins which had the couples’ names and wedding date printed on them were given out with the food. A selection of single malt whiskeys was offered to guests during the after party. All of Nicolette’s and Jake’s grandparents were involved in the wedding since they were lucky to still have them. As souvenirs, the guests received handmade scented candles custom made by the bride’s brother.

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The newlyweds danced to Savage Garden’s song ‘I knew I loved you’ for their first dance. The song is dear to both as it reminds them of the early days of their romance.

The bride wore a Pronovias dress in mermaid style. It was the very first wedding gown she tried on. The dress was complemented with a cathedral veil, a headpiece made from ganutell by Nicolette’s grandmother and a lovely bouquet of

burgundy roses. The bridesmaids and mother of the bride wore dresses designed by Jesmond Sammut of YesusDeMaris. The groom wore a tailor-made Gagliardi suit from Bortex. The bride wore another dress designed by YesusDeMaris, for the going away. After the wedding, the bride made use of Queen’s laundry and dry cleaners service to ensure her bridal gown is clean to preserve well in time.

Asked about the groom’s involvement in

the wedding planning, Jake told I Do that it was time to enjoy planning his own wedding after twelve years working in the wedding industry. Wedding planner Chris X was also roped in to ensure everything goes on without a hitch.

Nicolette and Jake went to Croatia for their honeymoon which also included a chartered mini-cruise around the Croatian archipelago.

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the couple TARA

&PADDY

Tara Fitzgerald, 28, Pharmaceutical Quality Specialist and Paddy Lynch, 35, Automotive Metal Finisher

22nd June 2015 CIVIL CEREMONY FOLLOWED BY

A BUFFET RECEPTION WAS HELD AT IR-RAZZETT L-ABJAD PHOTOS Thomas Sunderland Photography, Ireland

love birds GARDEN PARTY I DO 35

T

ara and Paddy are two lovebirds from Ireland. They have been a couple since 2005. “We socialised in the same town and had some mutual connections.

We were both secretly interested in one another, but neither one of us was brave enough to take the plunge to ask the other out on a date. After over two years of getting to know one another, Paddy plucked up the courage to ask me out. I gladly accepted,” Tara told I Do Magazine. They bought their first house together in 2009 and are proud dog parents to two Chihuahuas, Bailey and Roxy.

A simple but personal engagement was in store for the Irish couple. “Paddy and I love

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the simple things in life and we are happiest when we spend time together at home with our two dogs. It was Christmas time in 2013 and I was making the most of a Saturday morning sleep in! Paddy was treating me to breakfast in bed. After what felt like an hour of clattering and banging downstairs, there was some activity outside the bedroom door.

The door opened slightly and in walked Roxy, wearing her Christmas outfit and bearing a rose and note. When I opened the note it simply read “Tara”. Almost immediately followed Bailey; also bearing a Christmas outfit, note and rose. His note read “Will you”. The next moment took my breath away. The bedroom door opened fully. Paddy walked in dressed in a suit. He

handed me a rose and a note which read ‘Marry Me’. Of course there were 10 minutes of tears, hugs and cuddles and a most definite yes. And no he didn’t forget breakfast.” Tara went on.

Two days later, the couple travelled to Paul Sheeran Jewellers in Dublin and picked an art deco inspired platinum engagement ring.

Almost immediately, they knew they wanted to hold their wedding abroad. “We had visited Malta on two separate occasions in the past with friends and we fell in love with the island. It’s beauty and simplicity is breathtaking. Sunshine is almost always guaranteed and the Mediterranean climate offers the type of outdoor venues that we could only dream of having in Ireland.”

Mark and Mariella Burton, the husband and wife team from Dream Days Weddings Malta and Gozo, were hired to help organise the wedding.

Although Tara is very organised and a selfconfessed perfectionist, she has a tendency to be quite indecisive, so she expected to spend quite a bit of time wandering through bridal stores in search of the perfect dress.

“To everybody’s disbelief, I found my dress immediately. I knew I had found the one when my sister Chloe, my friend Caroline and I were all in floods of tears. My dad came with me the next day to give the final seal of approval. The Ronald Joyce dress was made of beautiful lace and tulle, with subtle Swarovski crystals incorporated into the fabric. The gown was completed with a full length Ronald Joyce veil which also incorporated a fine border of Swarovski

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crystals. This veil really complemented the dress.”

In seeking inspiration to plan the wedding, Tara thought about the things that were most precious to them - memories of her grandmother and her love of her garden and Paddy’s mum’s favourite flowers the Calla Lilly (both of whom have passed away). She wanted to ensure that anybody attending had a fun filled and memorable day. She also wanted to factor in the love birds idea throughout the wedding. All of this resulting in her theme ‘Love birds’ garden party’. Both the ceremony and the reception were held at Razzett l-Abjad.

Tara wanted the wedding ceremony to reflect the couple’s personalities. They opted for a civil wedding ceremony and incorporated many personal details. Musical pieces dear to the couple and vows based on

relationship science were chosen. It was an emotional ceremony and there wasn’t a dry eye in the house. After the ceremony, the guests were served with a beautiful selection of canapés, food and wine, taken care of by Osborne Caterers.

The Irish wedding continued with a boat trip around the Maltese islands including a stop at the Blue Lagoon, Comino. It was the perfect way to offer their guests a glimpse of the beauty of the islands.

Tara and Paddy had a honeymoon year.

Upon returning home from Malta with family and friends, they had an Irish mini-moon. The first international trip was an Arabian cruise visiting a number of locations throughout the United Arab Emirates and Oman. The next trip took them to America visiting numerous locations in California before finishing their trip in New York.

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Wearable sculptures Among the dozens of red carpet numbers during the Mercedes Benz Malta Fashion Week 2016 was a whirlwind of beautiful wedding dresses under the label Anna Romysh Haute Couture. This top designer brand in the FaragĂŠ Fashion Group portfolio was presented by WEDDINGBELLS. WEDDINGBELLS Director MARQUITA KEMPER shares her experience of working closely with Anna Romysh in bringing about this superb show.

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HOW DID THE CONNECTION BETWEEN WEDDINGBELLS AND ANNA ROMYSH COME ABOUT? WEDDINGBELLS has been making all collections from the Faragé Fashion House available to Maltese brides for the past 10 years. Over this time, Anna has become a very good friend. We love exchanging creative ideas and I describe her as a very passionate woman with a heart of gold.

TELL US ABOUT THE COLLECTION SHOWCASED AT MFW 2016.

This year WEDDINGBELLS, in collaboration with Faragé, presented the Anna

Romysh Haute Couture Collection 2017. Held at the beautifully restored Fort St Angelo in Vittoriosa, the collection includes a floor length gown with nude side panels and a fresh take on Baroque design, a tea length number with an adorned neckline in soft beige, layers of lace, 3D floral designs, silk, unexpected accessories and Swarovski crystals.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE BRIDE WHO OPTS FOR AN ANNA ROMYSH DESIGN? I would say the girl that chooses an Anna Romysh gown is definitely one who wants to make a statement. She is usually a strong woman with a soft and sensual side to her – a bride that appreciates quality and detail.

DESCRIBE THE MATERIALS AND EMBELLISHMENTS USED IN HER DESIGNS. Anna only picks the very best sometimes, choosing her fabrics next to international designers like Ellie Saab. As mentioned before, she loves detail. She usually uses many different laces and embellishments to create one masterpiece.

ANNA ROMYSH ALWAYS SURPRISES AUDIENCES AND FUTURE BRIDES WITH PECULIAR DESIGNS AND COLOURS. DESCRIBE THE SHOW STOPPER? I would say that each of Anna’s creations is a show stopper but having said this there is always one design that tops it all. This year it was definitely the nude mermaid dress with ivory Baroque inspired embroidered motifs. This gave the illusion of spirals stuck perfectly caressing the model’s curves. It was perfectly modeled by Bibyana of Supernova Model Management.

Photo by Keith Darmanin

BASED IN PARIS AND NEW YORK, ANNA ROMYSH IS SYNONYMOUS WITH LUXURIOUSLY DETAILED COUTURE GOWNS. WHAT INSPIRES HER? Anna is all about detail and only uses the very best material to create wearable sculptures. I always feel she is more of an artist than a designer simply because each piece is a work of art possibly taking months to complete. She only works when she is inspired and only when she feels it is the right time.

Many things inspire her including the Maltese natural light which she finds to be very special.

the couple SARAH

&GEORGE

Sarah Galea, 33, full time mum and George Micallef, 40, catering industry

2nd August 2015 CEREMONY AT OUR LADY OF SANCTUARY MELLIEĦA AND RECEPTION AT LA PIAZZA, CORINTHIA HOTEL, ST GEORGES BAY PHOTOS Max Portughes

THE TRUE

MEANING I DO 43

S

arah dreamt of being the perfect bride as we all do. However, three weeks before the wedding she broke two bones in her foot from a simple step on to a pavement which she misjudged.

Postponing the wedding was not an option as George had family coming from abroad and so did she. Her brother lives in the UK, her sister in Australia and two aunts and an uncle came from the USA. She cried solidly for the first week at least, as juggling a baby, making final preparations and nursing her foot was hard. She feels this was a test for them which was tough but they got through it and it made them stronger. They can look back and laugh about it now.

Once she kind of accepted what had happened, it was easier. She was determined to walk down the aisle without crutches and managed to get a fibreglass cast just for the wedding. The downside to this was that her foot had to be kept elevated regularly, so at the reception she had to be seated most of the time. She also had to have it removed the next day.

This unfortunate incident however made her realise that it’s not about the aesthetic side of things (as beautiful as we all want to look and feel). It’s really about the true meaning of marriage.

“Whether in a cast or not I was marrying the love of my life who knows me for me. For George it made absolutely no difference. He was so incredibly supportive. I was so worried of what the guests would think and I felt embarrassed about it,” Sarah says. “I made it down the aisle, the ceremony was absolutely beautiful, I was so worried about smudging my make up being so emotional, but I was too happy to cry (and in spite of everything) I couldn’t stop smiling. I wish I could relive our wedding day, it was over way too quickly. This was by far the BEST day of my life”.

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Sarah and George met three-and-a-half years before tying the knot, just six monts after Sarah moved to Malta from Australia. Born and raised in Australia, she moved back to Malta to be close to her parents and her sister. Having travelled extensively, Malta always had a special place in her heart giving her the feeling of contentment and completeness like nowhere else in the world.

She believes meeting George was pure destiny and fate: “I was looking for a part time job to get me through university and I wasn’t going to walk in this particular restaurant (where he worked) as I had already been offered a job next door to it.

But something drove me to walk in anyway, I did and George hired me”.

They clicked straight away, got to know each other and for a good six months had a purely platonic relationship which led them to become great friends. She highlights that George’s attitude to life is always such an inspiration to her. She still has the same feeling of four years ago – something no one ever gave her and which she can’t explain in words.

George always said he would never get married and did not plan to have kids either. Yet meeting Sarah changed it all.

“We are married, have a beautiful 18-month-old son and are expecting our second child at the end of August. We just couldn’t be happier that we have found our perfect match. I pray our love stays alive forever!” Sarah says.

Both had had the fair share of travelling and meeting various kinds of people so it was much easier for them to decide what they wanted from life.

They chose the theme of life creation and beauty, with their hand painted guest tree and cake symbolising life and their wonderful son.

She wanted to steer away from the typical all white bouquet and the colourful flowers symbolised happiness.

The ceremony was held at the Sanctuary of Our Lady in Mellieħa simply because it’s an especially stunning and miraculous sanctuary which touches both their hearts.

The reception was held at “La Piazza” Corinthia Hotel, St Georges Bay. The venue was overlooking the sea, with a beautiful watch tower, which they turned into a cheese and wine room, marking its historical beauty. They loved all the greenery surrounding it and decided to put fairy lights in the trees. The space and layout – the separate section where they had the band and where people could dance and most importantly the overall feel – won them both and felt unique.

Invitations were a beautiful cut out laser baroque design in ivory shimmer which folded in four and met in the centre. Text was printed on the inside in gold. The love poem introducing the celebration made their invitations different. This represented them all over.

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Sarah’s dress was by Mori Lee and was purchased from the UK. She always loved the strapless fishtail style so it was easy for her to choose it. She added a custom touch and had a beautiful crystal and beaded motif made in the shape of a heart which complemented the uniqueness of the dress.

She loved it so much and didn’t even change into her after party dress.

Queen’s Laundry and Dry Cleaners brought the dress back to perfection after the wedding.

George’s suit was rented from The Groom in Santa Venera.

Her wedding ring is a gorgeous heart shaped solitaire diamond chosen solely by George without her input whatsoever. They agreed he would choose for her as they felt

this is so much more meaningful and special.

Besides walking down the aisle, Sarah also managed to dance with George to the tune of At Last by Etta James, sung live and beautifully by the talented Amelia Hope backed up by the band Zone 5.

She recalls that the highlight of the wedding was a typical Sarah moment. The fact that she had to limp down the aisle in quite an inelegant fashion was hard enough. So she forgot to put her veil over her head and realised when she arrived at the altar and met George. She pulled her OMG face and arranged the veil the way it should have been for George to remove before kissing her. She was really upset about this as her veil had swarovski crystals scattered all through it

although it’s something to laughs about now.

Sharing some advice she says: “Don’t pay too much attention to the fine details as I did. The guests just don’t notice it. What’s most important to them is having good and plenty of food and abundant drinks… if you have that you can’t go wrong. The day goes by so quickly... just enjoy your day (as) it’s only once. I worried too much about whether the guests were happy and having a good time. In my case I couldn’t move around and talk to guests so it was hard for me to enjoy it to the full as I felt rude”.

They spent the days following the wedding in Gozo as that was the best option – still it was a special time they shared just the three of them.

They planned to go abroad this year.

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New Collection 2016/2017 Now Available

the couple LEANNE

&JEFFREY Leanne Sultana, 35, High School Teacher and Jeffrey Meilak, 28, Logistics Team Leader

4th July, 2015 WEDDING HELD AT DAĦLET QORROT BAY PHOTOS www.weddingphotosmalta.com

by Hush

ISLAND TIME

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eanne grew up in the Western Suburbs of Sydney, Australia with a strong Gozitan heritage, visiting Malta often as a child.

Her love affair with Malta began very early on.

In 2006, Leanne purchased an Around the World plane ticket and with a friend spent the better part of a year travelling, knowing that she would be spending all of the European summer in Gozo.

During this summer Leanne visited the Dive Bar at Marsalforn with friends and cousins on a nightly basis. This was where she met Jeffrey and they got to know each other. He worked behind the bar as a summer job to get through university.

L

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The obstacles for this relationship were great from the very beginning. Leanne had plans to live and work in London for the rest of the year before returning to Australia. The thought of moving to Malta seemed ridiculous at the time. So was this just a summer fling?

Leanne could not be sure so she followed through with her plans to live and work in London. This was meant to mark the end of the relationship but instead it strengthened it and a long-distance relationship ensued.

Finally, after a period of time, Leanne returned to Malta with a one-way ticket and the couple began a life together knowing that distance, change of country, age differences and many other things, would not break them.

After living in Malta for over 5 years, the

couple decided to move to Australia so Leanne could be closer to her family.

There was an ‘almost’ proposal in April 2013.

Jeffrey had carried a ring, hidden in his backpack as the couple travelled around the exotic islands of the Philippines but it never happened! The holiday came to an abrupt end when the couple had a motorcycle accident and spent the remaining weeks in a Filipino hospital.

Jeff’s chance came again in December of that year when the pair travelled to Thailand.

This time Jeff took no risks and organised a fantastic proposal within days of arriving. Jeff arranged a private dinner on the sand right at the water’s edge on a secluded beach on Phi Phi Island – a real item on Leanne’s bucket list! It was there that he popped the question.

The ceremony and reception were held at Daħlet Qorrot Bay on the 4th July 2015. This venue was chosen for many reasons but mostly as Jeff’s fondest childhood memories are at the bay. Leanne and Jeffrey spent a lot of time there as their relationship developed over the years. And of course, it was chosen because of its natural beauty and the fact that it is quintessentially Gozitan.

A relaxed and fun atmosphere was important for the couple: “We now live in Australia so all we wanted was to showcase our beloved Gozo to our friends and family who flew in from around the world. It was a celebration of Gozo as much as a celebration of our union,” Leanne narrates.

The wedding was a mix of Gozitan and Australian traditions. The venue and the atmosphere were different to most weddings as it was all very relaxed (including the dress code). Every detail of the wedding was personal as most decorations were made, designed and executed by the couple and their families.

The overall theme was rustic chic. They celebrated natural elements with a touch of class.

Tables were natural timber with mint table runners and decorated with recycled jars in all shapes and sizes. The jars were wrapped with twine and filled with candles or rustic flower arrangements made up of chrysanthemums, babies’ breath and lisianthus. Meanwhile,

bales of hay covered in natural fabric were arranged on the sand and accompanied by tree stumps as side tables. Antique wine barrels were used as standing bar tables.

The guest book was actually a game of ‘Jenga’.

The guests left words of advice on the small timber pieces accompanied by a sign ‘please sign your name on our jenga game’. This was placed on nanna’s antique dressing table. Frames with pictures of their parents and grandparents on their wedding day accompanied the guest book.

The wishing well was an antique suitcase borrowed from an uncle.

A vintage ice-cream stand, from which dessert was served, was built by Jeff’s dad. He also built a bar and a cocktail bar out of white washed recycled timber, to match.

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The cake was made of three tiers of cheese – their favourite! Jeff made the cake topper by burning ‘Mr & Mrs’ in pieces of Australian tree trunks. The cake table was built by Jeff’s dad using recycled pallets. Tassle bunting made by Leanne’s sister was hung across the front.

Besides scoops of ice-cream and a range of toppings, guests were treated to a range of desserts served in jars, presented on ice. Blackboards displayed the evening’s menu. Food was served on bio-wood plates and wooden cutlery was used.

A really important part of the ambience was the lighting. The cliffs surrounding Daħlet Qorrot Bay were illuminated in a warm yellow. The area was also filled with fairy lights overhead and in the trees.

The stage had a sign across it saying ‘everybody dance now’.

A photo booth area was also set up as a vintage lounge (again provided by Nanna!) with tree stumps as side tables. In the background, a 6ft white, illuminated ‘J&L’ sign made of timber was displayed. Besides this, Jeff’s dad made the wedding gazebo out of timber with jars of flowers tied to it. Ivory chiffon hung from it.

The wedding invitations were mint and gold and rather informal like much of the celebration. They were wrapped with bakers twine and each had a tag with guests’ names. They made this really personal by using people’s nicknames or other inside jokes.

Fans used during the ceremony were in the same colours and fonts but they glued them onto sticks so people could fan themselves.

It was important for the couple to give something back so it was an easy decision to donate to Puttinu Cares as a way of saying thank you to their guests rather than giving souvenirs.

Leanne’s wedding ring is a pear shaped diamond set in white gold with smaller diamonds around it and on the band. Jeff’s is a white gold band with some matte detail.

Leanne wore a Johanna Johnson gown in champagne ivory. Made of French silk with spaghetti straps, it has a very low back and a very small train. Over the dress was a fishtail, tulle skirt which ties around the waist. The headpiece was beaded French lace in gold tones. Both the dress and head piece hinted at art deco as Johanna Johnson designs call on the 1920s and 1930s.

Leanne highlights, “It was pretty much the first dress I tried on. I knew it was ‘the one’ instantly.

Afterwards, I tried on other dresses basically to keep my sisters happy, as they were so surprised that it was so easy!”

Jeff’s waist coat and trousers were custom made by the Australian Menswear Label MJ Bale as they couldn’t find a design they liked. The bow tie was from Ted Baker.

Gozo Laundry and Dry Cleaning brought the attire back to its original condition following the wedding.

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They danced to Never Tear Us Apart by the Australian band INXS as most of their 320 guests watched on. The dance finished off with a fireworks display and was one of the highlights of the wedding. The Travellers provided the big band feel during the wedding and this was followed by Gozitan DJ duo The Wobis who performed a lot of electro swing music, in 1930s style.

While planning the wedding, Leanne and Jeff set a budget and while they did go over, they were close thanks to their creative friends and family who built and made most of the decorations.

It’s important to remember that Daħlet Qorrot was a blank canvas and they had to build everything from the ground up – literally. They researched and designed their bars, wedding gazebo and other decorations and then had Jeff’s father build most of it.

Elegant Impressions provided a helping hand with wedding planning.

For the couple, the marriage was the culmination of a nine-year romance: “It was a celebration of our love and all of the people who have been there to share the journey with us. It was spectacular to us to have all our friends and family from all over the world with us. We were so thrilled that loads of family and friends

flew in from Sydney, Melbourne, London, New York, Utah, Finland, and Switzerland among others,” the couple explain.

With so many overseas visitors, they decided to create a website (http://lsultanas.wix.com/jeffwedslea) with further information.

It was special for Leanne and her entire family to be in Malta all together for the first time. Leanne and Jeffrey’s families spent time together all at once.

The speeches, an Australian tradition they wanted to include, were definitely the highlight of the wedding as they were funny, personal, touching and entertaining. The guests were all involved.

“The marriage is just the beginning… Let the journey continue!” they believe.

In words of advice to couples planning their weddings, they say: “Don’t sweat the small stuff” and “the wedding is one day, the marriage is forever”.

Since Leanne and Jeff had flown to Malta from Australia, they wanted to spend every possible minute with their special family and friends before having to return home.

They booked a farmhouse overlooking Daħlet Qorrot for a week. Their ‘real’ honeymoon was in December when they travelled to Central America (Panama, Nicaragua and Costa Rica).

Lucienne Atkins Jones

MALTESE FASHION DESIGNER SPEAKS ABOUT THE JOURNEY INTO THE BECOMING OF LILLY LOU

Lucienne is one of the Maltese known fashion designers, and we’re not just talking about Malta here.

You see, Lucienne, the Maltese fashion designer started her first collection under the brand Lilly Lou internationally in the UK. To let you know more about the designer we had a quick chat with her, and she told us about her successful journey as a Maltese fashion designer.

SO TELL US, HOW DID IT ALL START? Designing is my passion. I started drawing illustrations at a very young age. As I grew up, my passion for fashion designing grew bigger, designing my first bridal gowns and evening dresses for family and friends. I studied and worked in media so I utilized my marketing expertise to develop a brand from scratch. So, Lilly Lou, started in year 2011 - currently offers ready-to-wear and custom-made evening and bridal dresses.

Lilly Lou team builds up exquisite dresses with fine material, precious embroideries, and outstanding quality while always maintaining a form of sophistication. We aim to become the first high-end international brand based in Malta.

WHAT IS BEHIND THE NAME LILLY LOU? My mother who was called Lilly was a great inspirational to me, she always told me to follow my dream and gave me great encouragement. She was the strongest and kindest hearted woman I have ever known.

When she was terminally ill, I used to sit with her in bed and have long chats with her and she encouraged me to follow my dream and start my own collection. So yes, Lilly is after my mother and Lou is just my name but shortened. If she was still alive she would be so very proud of me.

HOW WOLD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR AESTHETIC? My designs are different from modern, classic to vintage couture, each woman have a different style and personality, but if I was choosing a style for myself I would go for simplicity, classic and royal.

WHAT MAKES LILLY LOU STAND OUT AMONG OTHER LOCAL DESIGNERS? Lilly Lou is an international brand, and not a

WHO’S THE FASHION DESIGNER YOU LOVE AND ALWAYS LOOK UP TO? Ziad Nakad.

LET’S GO BACK TO YOUR LOCAL CLIENTS, BECAUSE WE’VE SEEN MANY BRIDES LOOKING GREAT ON THEIR BIG DAY WEARING LILLY LOU! HOW DO YOU BRING THE CLIENT’S DREAM TO A REALITY? Maltese women like to dress up, and they give great attention to their wedding dresses.

However, Lilly Lou’s clients have a certain personality and a special style, so it is always our pleasure meeting the demands of the mentality of our clients. We make sure that their dream dress comes into reality. It has to be awesomely unique. Lilly Lou’s brides always feel their dresses are a modern, majestic royal piece of art and a piece of themselves.

work shop or studio. Aside from our designs, our aim is to make our ladies feel confident, and confident women always look good. In addition to that, we serve on an international level with international standards and high quality.

WE KNOW THAT YOU DESIGN FOR EVERY BODY SHAPE, AND ACCORDING TO THE PERSONALITY OF THE CLIENT TELL US MORE ABOUT THAT! My specialty is to understand the clients’ body shape, and accordingly design something that perfectly fits their bodies, by hiding the unflattering body parts and highlighting the best parts in their silhouette, with or without being revealing. All clients have different characters and personality, when designing the dress I always take that into consideration.

IS READY-TO-WEAR ANYWHERE ON YOUR FUTURE PLAN? We already have evening and bridal ready-towear. But, if you mean casual ready-to-wear, it is definitely part of our plan.

A PIECE OF ADVICE YOU’D TELL YOURSELF WHEN YOU FIRST STARTED… It is always the 3 P’s for me: work with passion, be persistent, and always be prepared!

FINALLY, YOUR FUTURE HOPES FOR LILLY LOU… To succeed on a global level.

Visit us at Lilly Lou Bridal Designer, 16A, Triq Haz-Zebbug, Attard • T: 2713 3178/9975 7778 E: admin@lillyloubridaldesigner.com www.lillyloubridaldesigner.com I DO 59

We invite you to visit db San Antonio Hotel + Spa and appreciate the wide selection of venues with fantastic views for your special occasion. The hotel has the perfect facilities to organize your wedding reception by the pool or on the roof terrace enjoying the open panoramic views and facing sunset. We also offer an indoor venue, the Casablanca Suite which can host up to 600 guests standing. Contact our Events Department who will gladly arrange a show round and discuss our menu options. Bookings for 2017,2018 and 2019 are now being accepted.

db San Antonio Hotel + Spa, Triq it-Turisti, Qawra, St. Paul’s Bay, SPB 1024, Malta • T: 2350 3750/1 E: events@dbhotelsresorts.com • W: www.dbhotelsresorts.com

Gifts, mementos, cake toppers and more made to order, and personalised, by Mdina Glass. Malta’s leading producer of glassware also offers a wide range of handmade glass lanterns, hanging lights, bowls and more, available to rent, to decorate and personalise your venue.

Make that special day that little more special.

For more information visit Mdina Glass at Ta’ Qali Crafts Village.

E: onlinesales@mdinaglass.com.mt T: 2141 5786 • W: www.mdinaglass.com.mt

MAF Hairdressing MAF Hairdressing was created

by Christian Mifsud in 2008.

His secret to success in the industry is the love in doing what he does. Whether it is a simple blow dry to organizing a hair show creativity is a must, along the use of professional products in order to be able to offer his clients the best experience when visiting the salon.

MAF believes also in the importance of male grooming and hence barbering services are also available. Christians career started when he was enrolled at mcast and later continued furthering his studies at the Mayfair academy in the U.K. He is keen on continuously seeking training and other inspiring experiences. MAF Hairdressing has received various prestigious awards both national and international.

We welcome you to head your way to our salon, join our Facebook page and visit our website www.mafhairdressing.com.mt

Gaudi by JB Stores Gaudi is a special enclosed section that you can find at JB Department Stores in Iklin. It is the place to find the finest and most exclusive fabrics. Whether you are the bride, the mother of the bride or groom or if you require a particular dress for a special occasion, Gaudi is the place to visit. At Gaudi you will find a designer and also professional sales assistants that can help you choose from the variety of fabrics that you will see. At Gaudi you will be able to choose the right fabric to create the perfect dress for your figure and style. The staff at Gaudi can also help you find a good seamstress to complete your dress. Visit Gaudi by JB Stores and you will certainly not regret it!

Gaudi by JB Stores, JB Stores, Iklin.

Call for an appointment on 23341343 www.jbstores.com

A cocktail bar is the symbol of style and fun; a centrepiece at your function where guests can socialise, while trying out a wide assortment of colourful and tasty cocktails prepared by highly skilled and amicable specialists. With over twenty years of experience at wedding receptions and just about every other type of function besides, Damian’s Mobile Cocktail & Wine Bar promises to be the detail that makes all the difference between an everyday event and a truly memorable occasion that people will remember fondly for years to come. You see it’s not just about serving drinks and making delicious cocktails, but setting the scene for a magnificent event with a studied touch of effervescence and flair.

Damian Muscat M: 99847074 E: info@damianscocktails.com • W: www.damianscocktails.com

Magical weddings at Villa Arrigo Villa Arrigo, one of Malta’s most extraordinary venues for church/civil weddings, conference dinners, seminars and any other reception.

A perfect setting with landscaped gardens, air conditioned – heated Marquee, fabulous rooms, and a setting ideal to capture that special moment.

The venue is conveniently situated within walking distance to a nearby chapel. Villa Arrigo hosts numerous weddings, where couples can also host their civil ceremony followed by a reception, dinner or a simple get together at the venue itself.

The wedding or event is organized completely around the individual client.

Contact: Veronica Zammit Tabona, or John Vella Galea T: 21423214 • E: info@osbornecaterers.com

Glamorous, sexy and extravagant. It is an indelible mind-set with each creation a perfect complement to a bride’s attitude, style and spirit.

Wearing EVA MARIEE dresses, a bride will truly be a STAR on her Wedding Day, adorned in a head turning creation brought to life that brings elegance and sophistication.

We work with the best designers around the World and our dresses have that exceptional fit that gives the body the perfect form.

We strive very hard to offer our brides the best and professional service and last but not least a magical experience.

Contact us to book your appointment – www.evamariee.com

GB Jewellers A wedding ring is a symbol of love for eternity! GB Jewellers is a leader in wedding rings offering a vast selection to choose from.

Any ring design, be it yellow, white or rose gold, with or without stones, including diamonds or zircons could be modified to every customers’ desires. GB Jewellers also offers a variety of Jewellery which is appropriate for the bride, bridesmaids and also mothers of the bride and groom.

Seal your marriage with wedding rings from GB Jewellers.

Visit one of our outlets GB Jewellers Birkirkara and The Strand Gzira.

T: 21499679 / 21322889 E: kegb@vol.net.mt W: www.gbjewellery.com Facebook: gbjewellersmalta

Conrad Briffa We offer live music for both wedding ceremonies and receptions.

We do not believe in ready-made packages.

Your wedding day is as unique as you are - we offer this flexibility! You can have a combination of musicians or singers that is specially customised for you with our professional guidance.

You will be dealing with the same person who will be with you on your wedding day. From a soloist to a band, you can be sure we can meet any budget. Join the hundreds of satisfied couples and send us an enquiry before your date is fully booked.

Visit www.conradbriffa.com for more info E: info@conradbriffa.com • M: 99448717

The Xara Lodge

Following the success of the Infinitely Xara Wedding Show at The Xara Lodge, the Infinitely Xara team is delighted to announce that their special offers created specifically for this event are valid up to the 15th July 2016. Infinitely Xara have a passion for turning each of their client’s dreams into a reality and wish to see their every wish and desire met, to make the first day of the rest of their lives the best one yet.

Benefit from any of these amazing offers and book your wedding now at The Xara Lodge, and let your fairy tale begin...

For more information kindly log on to our website, www.xaralodge.com, or contact our sales team on weddings@xarapalace.com.mt T: 22567567

CATHOLIC MARRIAGE PREPARATION COURSES October 2016 LOCALITY Attard Balluta Birkirkara Santa Marija Birżebbuġa Blata l-Bajda Fgura Floriana Għargħur Ħamrun San Gejtanu Ħal-Luqa Ibra Marsa Marija Re ina Msida Mosta Paola Kristu Re Qormi San Ġorġ Qormi San Sebastjan Rabat San Ġiljan San Ġwann Santa Luċija Tarxien Valletta San Pawl Żabbar Żebbuġ Żejtun Żurrieq Università 1 ** Università 2 **

VENUE Ċentru Ġwanni Pawlu II Ċentru Parrokkjali Ċentru Parrokkjali Santa Marija Sala Parrokkjali Youth Fellowship, Gattard House Ċentru Parrokkjali Dar ta’ Kana, Il-Mall Ċentru Parrokkjali Skola St Joseph, Blata l-Bajda Ċentru Parrokkjali Ċentru Parrokkjali Ċentru Parrokkjali Ċentru Parrokkjali Familja Mqaddsa Ċentru Sant’Andrija Kunvent San Ġużepp Ċentru Parrokkjali Ċentru Parrokkjali Ċentru Pastorali Parrokkjali L-Iskola Magister Academy Ċentru Parrokkjali Sala Parrokkjali Dar Nażaret Domus Paoli Ċentru Nażaret Dar San Ġużepp, Misraħ l-Isptar Sala Parrokkjali Ċentru Pastorali Chaplaincy Chaplaincy

TEL 21434949 21344306, 21318730 21448026 21651200 21241010, 99847364 21661745, 99247304 99491670 21411853 21238593 21809310 21370196 21240661 21334949 21433826, 99943365 21695022 21492997 21486350 21454467 21380270 21386112 21828931 21828153 21223348 21824383 21460800 21694563 21642010 23402341 23402341

Attendance to the Cana Courses at least two years prior to the date of marriage BOOKINGS FOR THE COURSES ARE TO BE MADE WITH THE PARISH PRIEST OF THE LOCALITY WHERE THE COURSE WILL BE HELD. Please call during office hours.

Il-Moviment ta’ Kana, Istitut Kattoliku, Floriana FRN 1441 Malta Tel: 2203 9300 / 315 Email: info@canamovement.org

www.canamovement.org

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LILLY LOU BRIDAL DESIGNER 16A, Triq Haz-Zebbug, Attard | Call us today: +356 9975 7778 or +356 2713 3178 Email: admin@lillyloubridaldesigner.com | www.lillyloubridaldesigner.com