Weddings

weddings The Malta Independent on Sunday 28 January 2018

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weddings

How to be a BLOOMING

BRIDE Every bride wants to be a picture of health on her wedding day but that might mean some adjustments in the food, drink and lifestyle department

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or obvious reasons, drastic diets and crippling exercise plans are not advised. But it's a good idea to begin any self improving habits as far ahead of the wedding date as possible. It will allow for any lapses and ensure the best results.

To make it easier do an honest

and realistic appraisal of what you want to achieve. Base this on an achievable way to make yourself look and feel your best, not just for your wedding day but for the rest of your life.

But don't forget, your fiancĂŠ chose you and trying to turn yourself into any one of the guru-approved examples of perfection that constantly dominate the media is bound to end in tears.

Never mind crank diets, food is our fuel, try and digest too much of the wrong stuff and the body stops working as we would like it to. Give it what it needs, in sensible amounts, and looking and feeling good will be the result.

Because only you know exactly when you get most hungry and how to plan meals and snacks to suit your appetite and lifestyle, all the 'perfect diets/eating plans for you' in the world are not going to help.

It is your goal that will decide how successful you will be.

All you actually need to know is that healthy food is so called for a good reason. And there is so much around that whatever your tastes, pun intended, you can always find enough to compensate for some of the unhealthy items you think you can't live without.

You could find a foodie friend to join you for morale support.

Magazine articles, apps and blogs may provide ideas and information, but ultimately you have to create the eating plan that suits you, otherwise it just won't work. This takes patience, imagination,

Never mind crank diets, food is our fuel, try and digest too much of the wrong stuff and the body stops working as we would like it to. discipline and the ability to be kind to yourself.

There is a lot of truth in the saying: "A little of what you fancy does you good." But it's not OK to reward yourself for a week of abstaining from everything you enjoy by guzzling junk food at the weekend and undoing all the good you achieved.

And since even healthy eating will not move weight away from specific areas of the body, exercise is also needed to complete the makeover. Have a think about what you want exercise to do for you and decide on something that will give you what you want. But choose an activity you really enjoy because you must be prepared to stick with it to get the best results. You may even discover a new hobby and decide it's worth buying all the kit, gear and accessories that go with it.

But it's not just about what we eat and how energetic we are.

What we drink plays a huge

part in our state of health too.

The average adult woman's body comprises 55% water, for men it's 60%. Just imagine the damage we're unconsciously doing to ourselves by not drinking enough pure water; at least two litres a day by some counts. The efficient functioning of all our organs depends on our intake of water, which also flushes toxins and waste from our bodies, and that, of course, affects, our inner health and the outward appearance of our skin, hair and nails. Think of the wedding close-ups.

Overall health also depends on sleep, or more precisely the quality of our sleep. Poor sleep is responsible for hormone imbalances leading to changes in appetite, lack of concentration and less ability to carry out everyday tasks.

All the plans and excitement of a wedding are enough to keep anyone awake at night so do whatever it takes to find the relaxation methods for getting to sleep that are best for you.

This will be especially useful in the nights leading up to the big day.

Finally, after all your efforts the time will come to let a little pampering add to your look good, feel good demeanour.

You have earned a few treats such as massages, a sauna and preparations for the big day like, facials, manicures, pedicures and specialist hair and skin care therapies. And, best of all, on your wedding day you know you will be looking truly radiant.

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It PAYS to plan The bride, her mother, best friends and a wedding planner are not the only people responsible for the success of a wedding

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here are a number of things that are traditionally the groom’s responsibility and several that should fall within his remit.

For a couple planning their wedding the majority of issues are for the bride to decide. But she will obviously want to include her partner, so they can

both feel totally part of the whole occasion. So, once the general themes and schemes, location and reception, transport and honeymoon preferences have been agreed, these are the ways a good groom can carry his share of the load.

1. Choose his best man, appoint the ushers, let them know what will be expected of

them and, with the help of the best man, where and when clothes fittings etc. will be; keep his father and father-in-law up to date with all the arrangements and liaise with them over any speeches they will be making.

2. Contribute to the guest list, including those his parents would like to invite, plus his own friends, and make sure his bride has all their contact details and addresses in good time to send out the invitations.

He also needs to keep track of the replies from his guest list, check their menu choices and answer any questions they may have, and keep his bride in the loop.

3. Deal with any family issues on his side. That is sisters who hate their bridesmaid dresses and his mother's kind help being interpreted as interfering criticism. Allow for a certain amount of nerves and genuine concerns then solve the problem, once and for all by firmly stating that it's not actually the cast who are taking one the most important steps of

their lives, it the two star players. Their decisions stand and they would just love everyone to let them choose what makes them happy.

4. Learn and practise the first dance. For some reason this still has an important place in the wedding celebrations. If there is no way out just insist it's very short. Should one of the couple have an almost morbid phobia about it the other ought to give in; more than you can imagine depends on this.

But it may not be possible to escape dancing with the mothers, even grandmothers, bridesmaids and VIP guests.

5. Choose and buy the gifts for the groom's men. With a little imagination small gifts, chosen individually for each one are more fun to give and will be really appreciated.

6. Write his speech, be prepared for toasts and practise the vows. Unaccustomed as he may be to public speaking, a groom today has no excuse.

There is enough online material and professional speech writers to make it sound good. Take

advice. Leave out anything unoriginal except traditional thankyous and high praise for everyone, and resist the temptation to shock.

7. Go for good grooming.

Dress, haircut, shiny shoes, whatever it takes to look the man his bride expects, book the fittings in good time. And do not be tempted to go for a totally new look or image. It will throw the bride completely and what if she hates it?

8. Make all the honeymoon arrangements, including the tickets, passports, visas, accommodation, insurance, driving and car paperwork and the vaccinations and international health care cover necessary for certain destinations. Read all the small print on documents, prebooking notices and receipts and confirm every detail in writing. Leave emergency contact details with a family member or friend and arrange for wherever you will come home to to be welcoming on your return.

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And the MOTHERS w While everyone’s eager to see what the bride will wear, her mother and mother-inlaw are also anxious to look their best.

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oth tradition and codes of etiquette can help with the decision making, and a lot depends on how well the two ladies know each other. The ideal would be for both to discuss with the bride what they would like to wear.

She will certainly have a style and colour scheme in mind and, in the interest of visual and emotional harmony, they should really respect this.

Some brides may have quite set ideas about what is appropriate attire for a mother, especially their own mother,

and be very concerned that she should avoid the 'mutton as lamb' risk. Grooms too may be sensitive about the balance between how they see their mother and the way she likes to see herself. And it will benefit mothers to understand and accept these sentiments.

The general advice is never to wear anything that will take attention away from the bride.

But as everyone's eyes will be glued on her throughout, nothing short of a pantomime dame finale costume would do that. It is therefore perfectly possible for the mothers' outfits to complement the bride’s choices and be as elegant and flattering as they could wish for, while still reflecting their personalities and any religious or cultural preferences.

It was always expected that the brides' mother would choose her outfit first, but this is not as so relevant today. Most grooms' mothers will have a perfect dress in mind and, as long as it matches the overall costume spectrum everyone will be

happy.

There was also a suggestion that neither mother wore white, but today there are so many variations where white does not look in the least bit 'bridal' that it could be quite acceptable; although in this case the

bride really should be consulted first. Wearing the same colour can work very well, but only if they each wear different shades.

And it is important to go for an individual look, to avoid appearing like a double act. The secret is for both ladies to dress

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wore‌

in honour of the occasion and not as if it was a competition.

Comfort and elegance should be the aims. Comfort because of all the toing and froing, bending, sitting and standing, getting in and out of cars and, hopefully, dancing that will be involved; and elegant because this is the celebration of the marriage of

their beloved daughter or son.

Start planning and purchasing the outfits in good time, it is too easy for the bride's mother to get so wrapped up in her daughter's dress and arrangements that she leaves little time to spend on her own.

At least six months is suggested since it nearly always takes longer than you might anticipate to find and match up all the accessories. Allow for the change of seasons and when stores bring in their new stock, if buying a ready-made outfit.

That way you will have the best possible choice, even if it means making a purchase several months ahead of the day. When you are buying online, leave plenty of time for returns, if necessary. And, like the bride, it's a good idea to wear your hair in a similar style to the one you will have for the wedding when trying on hats or any other headwear or ornaments.

As for shoes, just bear in mind that no matter how gorgeous they look or how perfectly they go with your

hat/bag/jewellery, you are going to be on your feet in them for a very long time. And while the youngsters may be kicking off their heels half way through the reception, this might be a little undignified for the mother of either the bride or the groom!

When all is said and done their child's wedding is a chance for mothers to dress up a little more than usual to show how proud they are of their daughter or son and how important their special day is for them too.

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You’re GETTING MARRIED, NO PRESSURE then!

Is there any way to plan and celebrate your wedding without going into mental meltdown and a fitness freak-out?

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t’s quite easy really, in spite of the never ending words of advice on the web and family and friends regaling you with ways to avoid any horrors they have experienced, or imagine might befall you, if you should…. well,

listen to too many doom scenarios and you may just decide to elope, which would be a real shame for everyone else.

Simply remember this is yours and your partner's wedding. Whatever your nearest and dearest suggest you ought to do, or not do, must

never be allowed to influence your final choices and plans.

Naturally, whoever is paying will expect a certain input so, up to a point, be prepared for a bit of give and take. If there are any real deal breakers ask a neutral family member or friend to mediate. This will take the pressure off you, as he or she will be able to put your case without getting too personal and emotional.

You're the bride; everyone wants to put your happiness first. But they also want to be helpful, to wear something they feel comfortable in, that they think makes them look their best and to share only happy memories of your special celebration.

So, be absolutely adamant on what you consider are the vital details and then allow for any eccentricities on behalf of others. Very often guests will see what you may think of as excruciatingly unacceptable dress or behaviour as quaint and amusing. So brush off the odd extraordinary outfit,

handbags lined with plastic ready to receive all the finger food that aunty had no time to stuff in her mouth, and the inevitable people who begin every sentence with: "Of course, for my wedding I had etc, etc, etc."

Yours is going to be the best wedding ever, no matter what.

And to establish all this you need only the three Cs.

are the most effective elements.

A wedding planner worth their title will understand this and rise to the occasion. Neither your guests' enjoyment of your wedding or the length of your marriage will ultimately be down to what it cost. That is unless you over budget so much you are still paying for it when other financial demands begin to appear.

Cash – does even a Kardashian have enough of this? The most memorable weddings are not necessarily those that had huge sums spent on them. Style, simplicity and sheer happiness

Communication skills – You've been planning your wedding forever, or so it may seem. You have a clear picture of every detail in your mind. To achieve your dream, choose your team early and allocate their rolls. Plan meetings separately, and occasionally all together, for updates. These should be fun, so everyone looks forward to them. You will ease your load by delegating certain tasks, friends and family will feel involved and problems can be solved promptly as soon as they appear.

Confidence – If you think you are short of self confidence you may well be right. But there are so many ways to boost your confidence that you can certainly expect to arrive at your wedding with all the panache of a celebrity on a red carpet. With all the techniques available for overcoming your nerves and anxieties you will certainly find one that will help you. Take a friend if necessary, but go for it. You have everything to gain.

Practise any skills you will need on the day like walking down the aisle, dancing, meeting and greeting and saying your vows, until you are happily looking forward it all.

Resolve to take any mishap in your stride. The chances are that no one will notice it anyway. And you won't be the first bride to muddle a line in her vows or spell her name wrongly on the register.

Remember, everyone will be on your side and traditionally it is universally agreed that there is something especially charming about a blushing bride.

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Don’t be a GRUESOME GUEST Even today there are a few points of etiquette to consider when you join the celebrations.

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rom the hen and stag dos, and prewedding parties till the moment the happy couple are waved off into the distance, never lose sight of two facts, this occasion is all about them and whatever you do at the wedding will not stay at the wedding. Or any other event connected with it.

There is always instagram and any number of sites on which regrettable behaviour can be replayed. If you don’t want to be a laughing stock or banned from any further nuptial celebrations, make sure you will have no regrets when the wedding

photo/videos are let loose online.

EARLY ON – Answer your invitation as soon as possible and if a ‘guest’ is not included don’t ask if you can bring one. If you’re attending a hen or stag do plan it carefully then go with the flow.

Set your budget and stick to it; having a good time doesn’t necessarily mean nearly bankrupting yourself, especially if you don’t remember any of it the next day. Don’t take unnecessary risks, especially with the hen or stag. Their opposite number will not thank you.

PLAYING YOUR PART – If you are a best man, bridesmaid, usher, witness or good friend and supporter, be reliable. Turning up on time for rehearsals and paying attention to the details will mean there will be no need for nerves. For this celebration consider yourself the ‘designated driver’ and remain sober and in control, till the last minute. Yours is a seriously responsible job.

DRESS TO IMPRESS – Whatever you think of the bride’s

choice of outfits, it is her choice, and it is her day. If you are easily embarrassed find out from the get go if there is any threat of themed ‘costumes’ or eccentric national dress, then either plead a prior engagement or suggest that subjecting half your guests to hours of acute discomfort and embarrassment may not be the best way to begin married life.

At every wedding there will be at least one guest for whom the occasion is an excuse to go over the top and one for whom getting dressed up means putting their teeth in. But in general it’s a lovely chance to do yourself and your friends proud. Just re-

member: You should never upstage the bride. Fascinators lose all hope of looking good, if they don’t stay in place. Designer shoes won’t impress anyone if they are lying on the edge of the floor because they are too painful to wear. And don’t forget to gather up any bags, hats, jackets, ties or other articles of clothing you may have removed during the course of the celebrations before you leave.

EATING AND DRINKING – Few occasions are more likely to encourage over indulging than a wedding. What with the principal participants’ nerves, the guests’ excitement and expectations and the emphasis on exceptional catering arrangements this is hardly surprising. But people who grab at every passing plate of food, or complain that there is nothing they can eat, or insist that they, and everyone around, use toasts to the slightest thing as an excuse to get roaring drunk are losers and should be removed before they can spoil the party for the other guests.

Speeches If you are asked to make a speech keep it short and simple and don’t try to be clever or witty at anyone’s expense.

You may have known the bride or groom since you were preschoolers, but this is not the time to drag up embarrassing anecdotes. And if the other speeches seem to drone on forever, be discrete about whiling away the time on your iphone.

ENTERTAINMENT – Be it a live band, singer, mini cabaret, bagpipes or Għana, music is a big part of any wedding festivities.

Singing along to it and dirty dancing may be invited as the reception morphs into an after party. But keep your performing talents till then if you don’t want to look a complete prat.

BEFORE YOU GO – Take plenty of photos, complement the bride and groom and their families on the event and write something nice in the couple’s guest book. They invited you to one of the most important and happiest events of their lives and that is how you will all want to remember the day.

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Wedding presents fit Most newlyweds are happy with items from a wedding list and cash but members of the British royal family receive weird and wonderful gifts

One of Queen Elizabeth’ gifts was a race horse.

ritain's Prince Harry will marry Meghan Markle, an American actress, in May this year.

And, along with the business and profits potentials created by the manufacture and sale of millions of royal wedding souvenirs, the other gift to the nation and the City of London of thousands of extra tourists up for the big day, will probably be more welcome than some of the extraordinary and questionable wedding presents his family

have received through the centuries.

Royal couples have sent out thank you letters for such generous donations as a racehorse, from the Aga Kahn, for Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip, or a ÂŁstg1,000,000 gem-encrusted gold model of an Arabian boat, as presented to Prince Charles and Princess Diana for their wedding, by the Emir of Bahrain.

Extravagant gifts in such circumstance are nothing new. King Philip IV of Spain bestowed several priceless jewels on his daughter Isabella when she mar-

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ried England's King Edward II, in 1326. Sadly, Edward promptly re-gifted this treasure to his royal mistress who, to make matters worse, was actually a pretty boy by the name of Piers Gaveston.

In 1533, when she was only 14 years old, Catherine de Medici married King Henry II, of France.

At the wedding her father-in law, Francis I received a unicorn's horn, mounted in gold, from Pope Clement VII, which she subsequently gave to her granddaughter on her marriage.

Queen Victoria's wedding to Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg

and Gotha, netted the couple, among priceless items from all over the empire, a giant cheese, from farmers in the English county of Somerset. Weighing 500 kilos it was pressed with the royal coat of arms and covered in a wire case to keep away the rats.

The present Queen Elizabeth was married in 1947, when postwar rationing was still in force, and many of her gifts reflected this. Among the most charming were 500 tins of canned pineapple, from the government of Queensland, Australia, and a turkey, sent by a woman in New York. Lord Mountbatten, gave his nephew Prince Philip and his new bride Princess Elizabeth, a picnic hamper.

Winston Churchill gave a complete set of his books. And it is rather fun to imagine the gold and jade necklace, from King Farouk of Egypt, on display alongside a hand-knitted cardigan and bed socks which were among the presents from members of the public.

More than 6,000 gifts arrived for Prince Charles's wedding to Lady Diana Spencer, in 1981. Although, today the royal family only accept token gifts and those from family and close friends, word from the Palace at the time indicated that some practical gifts from commercial sources would be welcomed, since the couple

had a country home and London apartment which both needed to furnishing This yielded at least a specially made, king-size bed. An entire kitchen unit valued at $18,500 was accepted from a German company, the Canadian's gift of a roomful of 18th and early 19th on which the couple were consulted, and more personal gifts of a painting for Prince Charles, and a large gold, diamonds and platinum brooch for his bride. There were also Australia's present of 20 handcrafted silver platters, packed in a French-polished, Australian Blackwood box, and a quantity of all-wool broadloom carpet, which it is believed was laid in the Prince Charles's home Highgrove, from the people of New Zealand.

And among the copious amounts of priceless jewels, glass and porcelain from heads of state and foreign royalty are: a piece of lace made of yarn which had been spun by Mahatma Gandhi; a small painting in oils of Prince Charles playing polo; an Art Deco style clock; whisky from Scotland; a spare copy of The Complete English Traveller, first published in 1771 and needing to be rebound, as a token present from the Cambridge University library; several kilos of peat, sent by a rural county council, to en-

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for ROYALTY Prince William and his bride received a model cassowary from a fan in Australia. rich the earth on the Duchy estate and a silver-plated mousetrap.

The couple also had a wedding list at the fashionable and almost exclusive the General Trading Company for close friends, who had to be approved before they could see the list to choose their gifts.

More recently, Prince William and his bride-to-be Catherine Middleton wanted to acknowledge their position and the needs of so many by putting a very personal stamp on their wedding and asking not to be given specific gifts; although,

In 1863 King Frederick VII of Denmark had the crown jeweller in Copenhagen design this necklace in the Byzantine style as a wedding gift for his daughter.

Lord Mountbatten, gave his nephew Prince Philip and his new bride Princess Elizabeth, a picnic hamper.

Queen Victoria’s sapphire tiara was a wedding gift to the Princess Royal, from her father. they did accept a papier mache model of the world's most dangerous bird, a cassowary, from a fan on their tour of Australia.

Realising that they had everything they needed, they requested guests, including heads of state, royalty and diplomats

from around the world, to make confidential donations to charities instead of sending presents.

Advice on how to make postal and online donations was sent out with all the wedding invitations.

This revolutionary scheme, raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for the charities the couple support. And, in the case of family and close friends they still received the special, personal gifts that always mean so much, to mark their marriage.

Prince Charles and Princess Diana’s gifts included a silver plated mousetrap. bit as much interest and affection The wedding of Prince Henry worldwide and will surely be a and Megan Markle may be a little chance for the couple to find a more low-key than those of his way for their gifts to go in giving, grandparents, parents and as they live happily ever after. brother. But it will prompt every

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The well-suited

GROOM It can safely be said that the days when the only thought a bridegroom gave to his wedding suit was should it be morning or lounge are long gone.

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ow we have moved on from the expectations that all the groom needed to do was stick a flower in his button hole, hire a top hat and play it very low key in the costume department while the bride's amazing dress got all the ooos and ahs.

In fact it's quite probable that a groom now puts almost as much consideration into what he and his entourage will wear as his bride puts into hers.

And the great thing is that no one thinks this too much or foppish anymore, and there are so many styles and colour choices to choose from when it comes to suits, jackets and trousers; not

to mention ties, waistcoats and socks.

It is not only acceptable but actually expected for grooms to steer away from the boring grey suit towards one in navy or another colour. It's become even more usual for the suit to be ditched altogether and exchanged for sleek trousers, worn with a long jacket, in an unusual cut, made in a heavy silk or velvet, depending on the time of year. But, wherever possible do go for natural breathable fabrics.

Now that almost anything goes, the groom has no excuse but to step up to the altar, so to speak, looking nothing short of stunning. And about time too; anything less is hardly a compliment to his bride, standing

beside him in the dress of a lifetime plus all the trimmings.

But this means daunting choices have to be made, for the groom, his best man and any groom's men. So here are some tips for absolutely looking part without feeling awkward and with the advantage of bagging some cool gear to spice up your everyday wear. Your guide lines will be your bride's vision of how she sees the styles and colours involved.

Patterns, for example paisleys, florals, spots, strong stripes and checks need handling with care.

Musical chorus line is not always a good look. But used subtly these can work to excellent effect.

Your ensemble should match, but be highly distinguishable

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from, that of your best man and ushers. Sharing elements like ties, waistcoats or matching socks will create unison. Accessories, such as buttonholes and handkerchiefs should be eyecatching, even amusing, but not enough to bring clowns to mind. Colour wise they can match the groom's outfit or echo the bride's bouquet or the overall wedding colour theme.

When choosing a suit remember that if you remove the jacket at any time, you still need to look good. A themed wedding, such as beach, vintage, country garden, city slickers or comic heroes (yes, it has happened) will give you even more scope to tweak the traditional dress code into something a little more down your street. A well

tailored linen suit, navy blazer and white flannel slacks, rustic or Cossack shirt, chinos, leather, suede or tartan trousers are not out of the question and would look very striking in the right setting. But do make sure you have exactly the right shoes to complete the look.

Some grooms find the whole idea of 'dressing up' an anathema. Some see it as a chance to bring out their inner Beau Brummel. No one wants to feel like they're channeling a tailor's dummy and everyone simply wants to be comfortable on such an important day. So it's nice to know that as long as you and your bride are happy with your combined choices, in the end that is really all that matters.

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The FOOD of LOVE Catering trends for weddings are introducing ideas that are decidedly different from the usual traditions

an appetising selection of cold meats, cheeses, antipasto, dips, breads, crackers, tapas and salads, all laid out in stylish dishes, platters, baskets and boards.

These can be eaten alone, or guests can create bruschetta and crostinis for themselves.

Some couples may want to bring an international touch to the wedding feast, and there are many ways this can be done. Choose a pizza buffet bar; make it exceptional with only the best of toppings, or an oyster bar to add a real touch of class. Go west, with taco and nacho bars, or east with an Asian fusion station.

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ould we soon be saying so long to the sitdown three course meals, budge over buffets and chow chocolate fountain?

Nowadays the simple choice between a buffet and a sit down meal is being set aside. Menu trends, as we go towards the 2020s look set to demolish or at least radically alter the way couples cater for the diverse preferences of their guests.

It's probably fair to say that feeding the guests is one of the most important aspects of a wedding reception, and one with an awful lot of details to consider. But, luckily, several very attractive possibilities are becoming really popular. For example, as more and more people enjoy all-day breakfasts and brunches, many wedding caterers are offering this concept, especially for morning weddings.

The final decision will obviously depend on the season, and what time of day the wedding is held, where the reception will be and, of course, the budget you have available.

The following ideas are just to offer a few fresh, fun and attractive ways to introduce some new touches to your catering and menu plans, or even replace the whole traditional approach with something original, like a 'street party' theme.

Savoury sensations

Menus could be based on a 'locally grown and produced' theme, with the accent on the best quality, locally-sourced, even organic, food. Your celebration will be supporting sustainable products and local businesses. There will be plenty of scope for choosing healthy foods and allowing for any allergies and special diets. And any guests from overseas will be delighted to have such a special chance to sample Malta's finest recipes and produce.

Because our food choices have changed so much over

Sweet treats

the past few years, a lot of couples are going for the nostalgia of comfort food. Honestly, wouldn't the majority of guests appreciate something relaxed, tasty and evocative of happy memories, rather than exotic dishes that can so often fail to live up to expectations.

And, couples can personalise their wedding menu, by including favourite foods. A special twist can be added by hiring food trucks or units which will serve fish and chips, top-of-the-range burgers, hot dogs, crepes, sushi, or Indian and Chinese dishes.

Another new concept is the grazing table, providing

It is perfectly reasonable to banish all food guilt at a wedding. Go ahead and spoil all your guests, who secretly have a sweet tooth and don't admit it, by offering some of the new, entertaining dessert alternatives which have become must-haves at weddings recently, for both their practicality and decorative appearance.

The multi-tiered wedding cake, the cutting of which is imbued with such sentiment, will probably be around for the foreseeable future. But a universal love of cakes is creating ways for them to be served in their own right as part of the wedding fare, together with any number of mini desserts. Think dessert buffets with fresh fruit, cream and mini puddings.

Donuts, cupcakes, macaroons and mini-meringues are appearing on trolleys and stalls at all the best weddings these days. Ice-cream wagons, especially for summer weddings, are a brilliant idea. With plenty of flavours and different toppings guests can make up their own sundaes and, maybe, more than just one cornetto?

Then there are sweet bars, with marshmallows, lollipops, truffles, candied fruits and coconut ice; or candy floss and popcorn stations. Guests will enjoy carrying around pretty bags of sweets, toffee popcorn and pastel- coloured candy floss on a stick to nibble at will. Take-away bags can double as souvenirs too, particularly for any children attending.

And so to drinks

Free bar, cash bar and/or waiter service, you will have to decide in good time. But the inclusion of barrels of beer, a mini wine bar, alcohol-free and craft cocktail bars, along with the spirits' level, will certainly add an extra edge to the celebrations.

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VILLA MDINA

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the venue with a history

illa Mdina boasts of the new transformed villa into an elegant wedding venue. The treasured original features have been retained combined with lavish interior décor and with state-of-the art lighting.

This perfect combination of vintage glamour and modern style creates the ideal setting for couples who desire the best of both worlds. It provides a

timeless and sophisticated backdrop for a wedding reception and other celebrations. Villa Mdina can accommodate up to 500 wedding guests inside the magnificent airconditioned historic halls and another 500 in the elegant, extensive, landscaped gardens. The stylish gazebo provides shade during sunny morning functions. Guests can opt for the comfort of the air-conditioned interiors, or relish the open-air areas.

The adjacent ultra-modern catering facilities provide exquisite food to further enhance that special occasion.

Guests at the Open Days were spoilt for choice - they could sample a vast array of finger-food, prepared onsite by the Busy Bee team.

Choosing the unique Villa Mdina for one’s wedding reception will ensure that the couple’s special day is in expert hands. The bride and the

groom can relax, knowing that the tiniest details are being taken care of.

The long showcase weekend of the Open Days was an unmitigated success.

Follow Villa Mdina / Busy Bee on Facebook or call Roderick Gatt for an appointment on Tel. No. 21340400.

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The Perfect Setting for your Wedding - Dolmen Hotel

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onderfully located at the water’s edge, the recently renovated Dolmen Hotel offers exceptional venues from a Classical Wedding in a stylish venue, to a beach wedding with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. The completely refurbished Olympia Suite offers style and fine design for couples seeking a traditional wedding. Complementing this venue, couples will find extensive gardens which also include a unique Neolithic site.

For couples looking for a seaside wedding, The Dolmen Hotel’s Beach is an exceptional wedding venue which offers stunning photographic opportunities. From the Tropical exterior to the warmly inviting interiors, the venue offers ample space for larger weddings, with multiple areas where guests can disperse.

Complementing this venue one will also find a spacious terrace and an infinity pool deck. It is a unique sunset location – relaxed, indulgent and beautiful.

Your wedding is one of the most exciting days of your life and whether you decide on a beach or a more traditional wedding, you are guaranteed superb personal attention and professional service and facilities. We are passionate about making your dream wedding a reality and take great pride in creating memories of your special day that you will always cherish.

Osborne Caterers, Malta’s leading catering and event design company.

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sborne Caterers is backed by years of experience in food preparation for any occasion; from a small dinner to a large reception at home.

Our young and creative team of professionals will cater for any occasion from the purely traditional to the most unusual events. The event is organised completely around the client, providing a highly personalised service. The combination of traditional and trend-setting ideas has become our hallmark.

Al Ponte Pizzeria & Restaurant

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l Ponte is renowned as one of the best restaurants on the island. It is highly esteemed for its delicious Mediterranean food complimented by a wide selection of local and foreign wines.

The restaurant’s open kitchen allows anyone to appreciate our chefs at work, preparing mouth-watering dishes including a wide selection of pizza cooked to perfection in our renowned stone oven.

This celebrated à la carte restaurant boasts a rustic vault ceiling over a beautiful terrace for the enjoyment of al fresco dinning throughout the year.

Al Ponte also offers a Cafeteria Menu including a Baker’s corner during the morning hours, whereas the full menu is then served from mid-day onwards.

Al Ponte Pizzeria & Restaurant MARITIM Antonine Hotel & Spa George Borg Olivier Street, Mellieha MLH 1021 Tel: 00356 2289 2245 • E-Mail: info@alponterestaurant.com Facebook: alponterestaurant

Weddings? …there’s no place like paradise!

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e it a wedding for 20 or 500 guests, we can definitely make it a day to remember as our catering and banquet facilities are second to none.

Moreover the resort’s professional and capable staff will assume responsibility for the details large and small to ensure that your dream wedding comes to fruition.

Venues include the Island’s Edge Lido beach, Captain’s Bridge pool deck and the Mosé Hall, all offering unobstructed views of the clear blue Mediterranean Sea. Why not have your wedding under a Bedouin tent on our private sandy beach?

There is also extensive terrace space surrounding the outdoor pools overlooking the picturesque Paradise Bay, which can accommodate small or large parties.

The private sandy beach is also an interesting option for an after wedding party.

The choice of venues within the Paradise Bay Resort is endless!

Paradise Bay Resort…

Malta’s best kept secret.

Marfa Road, Cirkewwa, MLH 9068, Malta T. (+356) 2152 1166 F. (+356) 2152 1153 E. events@paradise-bay.com www.paradise-bay.com

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weddings JANUARY 2018 |

REVERIE

THE KNOT

êverie specialises in contemporary bridesmaid dresses and exclusive evening wear. The bridesmaid collection includes over 60 unique styles, sourced from leading suppliers including TrueBride, an award-winning UK-based design company and Dessy, a leading US manufacturer. Each style is available in 60 different colour shades. Rêverie recently launched a new brand of bridesmaid dresses – ProperMaids by Rêverie – a more affordable line to cater for lower budgets.

Rêverie offers gorgeous and figure flattering evening wear directly imported from all around Europe, notably the UK. Rêverie’s evening wear collection, made up of over 150 styles, guaranteesexclusivity since each and every dress is only available in one size and one colour Rêverie is located in Vjal Kottoner, Fgura.

he Knot provides a high quality hiring service to cater for all occasions and needs. Specialising in groom and groomsmen’s wedding suits, The Knot strives to make all clients look their best for their special day. It offers a wide selection of designer groom’s suits in a variety of styles and colours as well as plus sizes. It also provides a selection of shoes to finish off any look.

The Knot also offers a hiring service for men's evening wear, formal wear, religious occasions, graduation gowns, and a large variety of hats and fascinators in various colours.

Take the stress out of occasions and leave it to professionals to provide you with the best options of stylish and elegant formal wear – hire your outfits from The Knot.

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Wedding Wise Before The Event

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his will be your Wedding Day and you’ve been dreaming about it for as long as you can remember. You are so excited that you cannot wait to start planning your special day, but you suddenly feel overwhelmed by the very thought of all the preparations and perhaps, you’ve just realised that you don’t know where to start.

So, before you start to panic, we’d like to let you know that we, at Wedding Wise, are here to relieve you from the stress involved in planning your wedding. As event planners, we will cover all the tasks that you entrust us with and alleviate some of the pressure.

We guess you have lots of thoughts and visions of how your wedding day should be, so it is important for us to hear you out and understand what your dream is all about. Only then

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Lab Photo Ltd is the leading photography printing laboratory that does not just settle for the highest quality and standards, but is continuously striving to improve our products and services. We do not rest on our laurels, and with the introduction of new high-end printing equipment, we have further pushed our quality ever higher. Our higher standards can be gauged by the increase in top photographic artists, both foreign and local, who are trusting us with their work and exhibits.

Apart from other products and services, ILab specialises in fine art pigment printing, high-end chromogenic printing, wraps, blocks, framing, photograph albums, photo books, folios, wall display products, murals and photo memorabilia. The exceptional high professional standards that the lab embraces make us the first choice of discerning photographers.

Follow us on Facebook or visit our website http://www.ilabphoto.com/ to keep updated with our exciting new developments.

can we give you the right advice regarding the average size of your wedding party and whether the venues that you have chosen are suitable.

We can guide you to choose the right décor and flower arrangements, particularly if you have a theme in mind that you would like us to develop, as well as the music accompaniment throughout.Then there’s the photography that must be given serious consideration, for where

will we be without memories of that wonderful day!

Having said all this, it is essential to keep to your budget plan and once we know this very important detail, it will be easier for us to work together toturn this occasion into a great celebration.

So, if wedding bells are in the air, why not get in touch with us? We’d love to meet up with you and help you make your dream come true.

from the moment you walk in throughout dinner, while our

kitchen brigade ensures you are served the best with Hard Rock’s signature dishes. After dinner you can relax or dance to the live music while enjoying our cocktails to stir up some fun.

For details contact us on sales@hardrockcafe.com.mt

Bachelor or hen parties – the best choice

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re you planning a special event? Would you like to meet up with friends or family before you tie the knot? Look no further, as both Hard Rock Cafe Bay Street and Valletta Waterfront offer you the perfect venue with more than 15 years of experience. A selection of different menus to suit your tastes is available, either seated or standing, including open bar options with mouth-watering finger food selections. A live DJ warms up the atmosphere on Friday nights which is ideal for a fun night out. Our sales team will be more than happy to assist you with your booking, our service team will ensure you enjoy the night

perfection in photographic printing

eCABS ties the knot

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ollowing its success within the local transport industry, eCABS has extended the quality benchmark by offering upscale Luxury Executive Vehicles catering for that special occassion of a lifetime.

This is where eCABS have invested thoroughly in their chauffeurs who come in full uniform and are particularly trained to adapt to the clients’ needs and high expectations during such important celebrations. Executive chauffeurs are coupled with top brand vehicles including the elegant Mercedes E-Class, executive BMW 5Series and top of the range BMW 7-Series, which definitely leaves a mark to impress. Furthermore, the luxurious fleet caters for groups of 5+ passengers by offering the latest Vito models which extend the comfort of the Mercedes brand.

Smart technology has been the core achievement in putting the client’s mind at rest when booking their transport needs. All vehicles come equipped with a real time tracking network which incorporates an automated messaging system notifying the client when the vehicle is approaching the requested pick up address.

The current fleet of vehicles allows eCABS to have any type of car available around Malta within low pick up time frames, providing guests with the convenience of booking their transport back home at their own leisure. This may further be combined with a range of modern people carriers and vans providing a shuttle service between the venue and main parking spaces or residences.

While luxury normally comes with an expensive price tag, eCABS gives particular importance to the client’s specific requirements and offers peculiar transport packages which fulfill the client’s needs and expectations while honouring the allocated budget.

Further information about transport logistics for Weddings, Events and Corporate requirements contact eCABS via email events@ecabs.com.mt