Weddings Brochure

Issue 1

WEDDINGS INTHE MED

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...The Islands of Malta and Gozo...

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When you’re sipping a glass of champagne watching the sun set over the crystal clear waters of Malta reflecting on the best day of your life, you’ll know you couldn’t have chosen a better destination than Malta.

With fresh, local, expertly cooked Mediterranean food, impeccable service, breathtaking beauty and excellent weather – a wedding anywhere else seems to spite itself!

The Truly Mediterranean Islands of Malta and Gozo provide the ideal back drop to every wedding, with year-round sunshine, azure waters and luxurious resorts. In Maltese culture, marriages are lavish affairs, but whether you’re planning a laidback do for close family or a spectacular affair for 200, any wedding held in Malta will be one to remember.

Boasting around 365 beautiful churches dotted around the Islands, Malta is an ideal destination for those desiring a religious wedding. Of course if your ideal nuptials are more, chic cocktails at cosmopolitan hotels, bare foot romance on the beach or old world charm there is a wide choice of licenced venues, all of which are set to inspire and delight. The grandiose will love one of the

grand baroque palaces with stunning Gardens or those preferring something more rustic can choose a beautiful farmhouse set in the quaint countryside of Gozo. For nature lovers, Malta’s beautiful sandy beaches provide a location like no other, with the warm Mediterranean lapping at your feet.

We know that the decision of how and where to get married is one of the most important you’ll ever make and want to let you know that choosing Malta as a destination, you can rest assured that no task will be too big or small to ensure the perfect ceremony, celebration or honeymoon.

Alex Incorvaja Director UK & Ireland

introduction

Firstly I wish you warm congratulations, getting married is one of the most special and exciting moments for every couple and as a married man I know exactly how perfect it needs to be!

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WEDDED BLISS

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With year-round sunshine, spellbinding Mediterranean waters, spectacular scenery, luxurious resorts and delectable cuisine, Malta can make a dream wedding become reality.

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At just a three-hour flight from all the major airports in Britain, it is a short trip to one of the most romantic and magical wedding destinations in the world – the Maltese Islands.

Malta is situated in the centre of the Mediterranean, 62 miles south of Sicily. It is in fact an archipelago of three islands: Malta, its smaller sister Gozo – with its stunning landscapes and scenery, and the tiny island of Comino. The islands have untouched and rich with wildlife. With its Mediterranean climate, Malta offers year-round sunshine with long summer days and warm dry winters, providing the perfect wedding destination 365 days a year.

The islands have a long and rich history, boasting some of the world’s most ancient standing buildings. Valletta is the capital of Malta and is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage City as it is filled with examples of grand architecture. Malta’s past seems to

transcend the ages, from its mythological links of Homers Odyssey, to attracting the Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans and the crusading Knights of St John.

The islands exude a sense of the magical and mysterious. This aura hasn’t gone unnoticed and, coupled with some of the most beautiful landscape in the Mediterranean, Malta has become extremely popular with Hollywood, providing the backdrop for countless cinematic blockbusters such as Gladiator, Troy and U571.

Weddings In Maltese culture, marriages are lavish affairs but whether you’re planning a laidback reception for close friends and family or a spectacular affair for a much larger number, any wedding held in Malta will be one to remember. From church weddings to civil ceremonies, it has a vast array of wedding services to fit all budgets and offers

great value for money, making a Maltese destination wedding available to everyone.

Malta is a Roman Catholic country and boasts more than 350 beautiful churches around the islands, making it a fantastic destination for couples desiring a religious ceremony. For those who wish to have a civil ceremony there are also numerous venues, including many luxurious hotels.

However, Malta’s venues are in no way limited to just hotels and churches. The historic capital of Valletta, with its ancient buildings and magnificent harbour, adds a sumptuous backdrop to any ceremony. As does the former capital Mdina, with its magnificent panoramic view of the island.

With such a varied and colourful historic past, Malta offers something for everyone.

The grandiose will love one of the imposing baroque palazzos with stunning gardens and those preferring something more rustic can choose a beautiful farmhouse set in the

Accommodation With an abundance of luxury hotels, Malta offers visitors an amazing selection of accommodation. International brands such as Radisson Blu and Le Meridien in St Julians, Malta and Kempinski San Lawrenz in Gozo

have chosen to open beautiful properties.

The stunning Hotel Phoenicia Malta and the Grand Hotel Excelsior, both situated close to the island’s capital, Valletta provide a luxurious stay; as do the Hotel Cavalieri in St Julians and Calypso Hotel in Gozo. Malta also offers a number of elegantly styled boutique hotels including The Xara Palace Relais & Chateaux, a grandiose 17th Century palazzo in Mdina, The Palace in Sliema and the Ta’ Cenc in Gozo. Be it traditional or modern, grand or boutique, there are resorts available to fit all tastes and budgets.

Nightlife Although Malta is renowned for its relaxing ambience, there are still plenty of places to dance the night away. There is a large choice of venues, with the main nightlife locations situated in Valletta, Paceville and Bugibba. Not to mention a number of open air clubs, which are particularly popular on

Friday and Sunday nights, and are beginning to attract a wider crowd from across Europe.

Also, with Malta’s warm climate, beach parties are very popular during the summer.

Food and drink Food is an important part of Maltese culture, and its geography and history has helped create a blend of Mediterranean flavours.

With its Sicilian, Italian, Lebanese and North African influences, Malta has taken the bits from each to form its own distinct gastronomic identity. This is evident in many of the restaurants and bistros throughout Malta and Gozo.

From acclaimed restaurants to family run eateries, the focus remains on fresh, delicious produce and celebrates a rich culinary history that is still constantly evolving. For the culinary enthusiast www.restaurantsmalta.com is a great place to find out about the best ❥

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quaint countryside. For nature lovers, Malta’s beautiful sandy beaches provide a location like no other. In fact there are so many magical wedding destinations that choosing to get married in Malta is the easy part – the tricky bit is narrowing down the choices.

With all these alternatives it is recommended you speak with one of the numerous wedding planners based in Malta. With their knowledge of the region and expertise they can ensure a dream wedding matches any budget. They can help bring to light all the available options as well as explaining the cultural and legal aspects of getting married in Malta.

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places to eat and explore Maltese cuisine.

Wine connoisseurs can explore the local vineyards, as Malta has five main winemakers taking advantage of the rich grapes grown in the region.

Many of Malta’s hotels can provide bespoke wedding menus that deliver a varied taste of the traditional and modern. Alternatively there are a number of excellent catering businesses which specialise in producing delectable dishes on site.

Spa

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For those who like to be pampered, the Maltese islands are a haven for spa and wellness enthusiasts. Offering the latest treatments and facilities, from ayurvedic massages to special healing baths, visitors are spoilt for choice. Twelve of the luxury hotels in Malta and two in Gozo offer state-of-the-art spa facilities, with special allinclusive packages available.

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Activities For the more sporty and adventurous there are an abundance of activities of which to take advantage. The waters around the islands have been voted the best in the Mediterranean for diving and the excellent dive schools cater for beginners and pros alike.

Malta’s location makes it the ultimate yachting hub and chartering is easy throughout the islands. But for those who prefer to stay on land, the island’s rocky terrain provides climbers, trekkers and mountain bikers, with limitless trails to explore. The warm, dry Maltese climate also makes it a great destination for golfers.

Honeymoons With all the excitement of the wedding, many couples will have only had time to see a fraction of the island. Queen Elizabeth II

and her husband, Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, spent the first two years of their married lives residing in Malta, the only country outside Britain where they have lived. She looks back with fondness on those years and in 2007 the Queen and the Duke returned to Malta to mark their 60th wedding anniversary – in what many referred to as the couple’s second honeymoon.

Couples honeymooning in Malta will be able to experience a romantic escape like no other. With hotels providing special honeymoon suites with stunning views as well as other couple-focused amenities to make you feel like royalty.

For further information on Malta please visit www.visitmalta.com ❤

HHHHH Bring us your wedding vision and let us show you its realisation...

Overview It’s your wedding day. Picture yourself at a hotel of exceptional luxury, on Malta’s Mediterranean coast just outside the imposing medieval walls of Valletta.

Sparkling chandeliers are reflected in rich marble floors, while our grand staircase whisks you away to a ballroom overlooking the bustling harbour.

Venture into the heart of the building and you will be mesmerised by our spectacular waterside views of Fort Manoel and the north coast. This is the Mediterranean hospitality – this is the Grand Hotel Excelsior Malta.

Situated within walking distance of the historic walled capital city of Valletta, it commands Malta’s prime waterfront location. The Grand Hotel Excelsior offers 428 elegant rooms and suites, each with its own romantic balcony or

terrace, offering breathtaking views of the marina and harbour or the hotel’s colourful plaza.

Boasting 13 versatile banquet rooms – from the opulent grand ballroom, which has panoramic sea views and can hold up to 1,000 people, to delightful intimate events in stunning surroundings – there is something for everybody.

The Grand Hotel Excelsior believes dining should always be a pleasure; that is why our wedding food is of the highest quality and is unique to each couple, their taste and style.

The award-winning kitchen puts together delectable, innovative menus for you to choose from and can tailor these whether it’s for a sit down meal for 20 guests or a stand-up reception for 800.

Every couple receives a personal welcome and friendly, professional service. The hotel’s dedicated team of wedding planners will arrange an initial meeting to establish precisely what the bride and groom desire, after which the entire wedding ceremony, reception and/ or honeymoon is tailored exclusively to order.

The Grand Hotel Excelsior can perform civil wedding ceremonies and will make all the arrangements from start to finish.

Exceptional cuisine, flawless service and world-class luxury in the magnificent setting of a Mediterranean island rich in history and natural beauty… everything is in place for a spectacular wedding day and a dream honeymoon at the Grand Hotel Excelsior.

Hotel facilities:

Restaurants: Admiral’s Landing, Spice Island, Yacht Club, TIKI Bar and Restaurant, Harbour View Bar Pool: Outdoor pool and indoor pool Spa: Full spa with sauna, steam bath and 8 treatment rooms Gym: Fully equipped gymnasium Sport: Diving packages Additional: Private beach, executive chauffeur driven service, babysitting services, laundry and dry cleaning, business centre, tailor-made excursions

Wedding facilities:

Service/ceremony/blessing facilities: Yes Reception room and capacity: 13 versatile banquet rooms, each seating between 6 and 900 people.

Catering services: Yes Hotel wedding planner: Mr Neal Debono is a full time wedding and events specialist working at Grand Hotel Excelsior Wedding couples suite: Yes

General information

Wedding contact: Mr Neal Debono Telephone: 00356 9911 9982 Address: Great Siege Road, Floriana Email: weddings@excelsior.com.mt Web: www.excelsior.com.mt

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GRAND HOTEL EXCELSIOR

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LE MÉRIDIEN ST JULIANS HOTEL & SPA HHHHH Exchange your vows with us and your day will be all you ever dreamed of...

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Overview

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As your wedding fairy tale unfolds before your eyes, you know you’ve made the right choice. This is the right moment.

The right person. The right place. Indeed, our dedicated events team will be inspired by your vision to ensure they make this the perfect day for you.

Whether you wish for a grand celebration or something more intimate, Le Méridien St Julians will embrace your wedding with a passionate level of service. As part of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, our promise is to provide you with a true dream wedding.

Located in picturesque Balluta Bay, the Le Méridien St Julians Hotel & Spa celebrates the Maltese way of living and its diverse

culture. Nestled on the former gardens of a 19th-century villa, it is the perfect base for a stimulating journey to discover all of Malta’s many treasures.

Dining locations around the hotel are set alive by a creative kitchen brigade and a passionate executive head chef. We can provide an extensive range of wedding menus to fit all gastronomic tastes. Discover the island’s unique Mediterranean recipes, travel to other continents with surprising ethnic-themed nights, dine al fresco on the highest rooftop in town or enjoy the exciting vibe of the hotel’s contemporary lounge. Cuisine is definitely a lifestyle at Le Méridien.

With an amazing range of amenities, including pools, a gym, water sports and golf nearby, there will always be something for you and your guests to do.

Before your wedding day, what better way to relax then in the Lotus Spa MyoKa. A holistic approach is given to this spa experience, in a tropical setting with impressive carved columns imported from Bali. This relaxing area is a must during your stay to our stunning five-star hotel.

Hotel facilities

Rooms: 276 rooms and suites Restaurants: 2 restaurants + 2 seasonal outlets (open in Summer only) Pool: 1 indoor + 1 rooftop outdoor pool Spa: Lotus Spa MyoKa

Gym: Ultra-modern fitness centre (free for Guests) Golf: 10km away from the hotel Sport: In the hotel: squash court and aerobics classes (at a charge); at proximity of the hotel: water sports, scuba diving, horse riding

Wedding facilities

Service/ceremony/blessing facilities: On request

Reception room and capacity: Outdoor venues (rooftop and terraces), large exhibition hall, banquet hall and restaurants that can cater for small weddings and up to parties of 300pax.

Catering services: Yes Hotel Wedding planner: Yes

General information

Wedding contact: Bugeja Bernice Seasonal opening: Open all year round Address: 39 Main Street, Balluta Bay, St Julians, STJ1017 Telephone: 00356 2311 2109 Email: sales.malta@lemeridien.com Web: www.lemeridienmalta.com

HHHHH Welcome to the Hotel Phoenicia Malta – one of the most exclusive and historic destinations in Malta.

Let us wrap you in romance, history and unique Mediterranean charm Overview: Combining old world elegance and with modern luxury, the Hotel Phoenicia Malta is a premier five-star luxury Art Deco boutique hotel which has a well-earned reputation as one of the most desirable wedding venues in Malta.

Located at the city gates of Valletta, and boasting acres of beautifully landscaped gardens and a grand ballroom, this magnificent hotel offers an idyllic location for a dream wedding.

With some 365 churches in Malta, religious ceremonies are still the most popular form of wedding. However, civil ceremonies are also

legally recognised and the Hotel Phoenicia Malta is a licensed wedding venue that can host ceremonies on site; either within the hotel or outdoors in our landscaped gardens. Our experienced wedding planner will be able to take you through the various stages of paperwork that accompany a civil ceremony in Malta.

Our selection of wedding venues makes getting married on the island that much easier. Whether you choose the lavish surroundings of our striking grand ballroom, or the picturesque setting of our Bastion pool, the Hotel Phoenicia Malta will ensure your Mediterranean wedding is something you will remember forever.

We are passionate about our food. Every single one of our delectable menus, whether for receptions or gala dinners, is carefully thought through to combine the best local produce and a variety of enticing flavours.

Set amid 7.5 acres, the hotel combines comfort and luxury with stunning views at every turn. The fantastic facilities, such as our Bastion pool deck and various spa treatments, are the perfect way to relax.

We understand the stresses of the day, and our specialist wedding planner will be there for you every step of the way, ensuring your wedding turns out to be the occasion of which you have always dreamed.

So let us provide you with an absolutely unforgettable experience.

Hotel facilities:

Rooms: 136 Restaurants: 3 Pool: 1 outdoor pool, heated in winter.

Gym: Available Golf: Mini golf available Additional: 7.5 acres of mature gardens, 6 function rooms, including a grand ballroom.

Wedding facilities:

Service/ceremony/blessing facilities: Various packages are available as per the attached portfolio – tailor-made packages are also possible on request Catering services: Food and beverage catering is provided by the hotel Hotel wedding planner: Katriona Schembri Wedding couples suite: The hotel offers the couple complimentary overnight stay in a suite with a wedding booked for a minimum of 50 guests.

Additional: A dedicated wedding planner to assist the couple with all their requirements through to the end of the wedding.

General information

Wedding contact: Katriona Schembri Address: The Mall, Floriana FRN 1478 Telephone: +356 2122 5241 Fax: +356 2123 5254 E-mail: weddings@phoeniciamalta.com Web: www.weddings-malta.com

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HOTEL PHOENICIA MALTA

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RADISSON BLU RESORT, ST JULIANS HHHHH Dream weddings and honeymoons in a St Julians gem

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Overview

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For an incredible, memorable destination wedding, choose Malta for its breathtaking scenery, rich culture and exceptional weather. Choose the Radisson Blu Resort, St Julians for your perfect Malta wedding; with inspirational ideas, a glorious celebration of laughter, tears, kisses, pledges, oaths and toasts are guaranteed at this gem among St Julians hotels.

The Radisson Blu Resort, St Julians is a five-star deluxe hotel situated in St George’s Bay on the island’s northern coast, directly overlooking the crystal clear blue waters of the Mediterranean and with stunning views stretching from the historic Grand Harbour on the east to the sister island of Gozo on the west. When it comes to capturing your special day, the beautiful views overlooking

the Mediterranean Sea make the perfect photographic backdrop. The central location makes it ideal for getting away from it all and focusing your mind on making your wedding day an unforgettable experience.

The resort offers a private beach club and a range of sports and leisure facilities, including massage rooms, tennis courts, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, jacuzzi, gym, sauna and much more. A fantastic team of professionals are constantly on hand and have the experience to organise your wedding and cater for all tastes and budgets. Whether you choose an exclusive private gathering for 15 or a wedding of 100, our wedding packages have been designed to cover many traditional elements of a wedding reception, making it easy for you to plan your day exactly the way you want it. Chefs at the five-star restaurant offer a delectable menu of banquet and seated dinner options to couples marrying at the resort. The range of top-class restaurants, combined with the spectacular views, elegant facilities and perfect professional planning, ensure any wedding at the Radisson Blu is every bit as memorable as you dreamed it.

Hotel facilities

Rooms: 252 Restaurants: Le Bistro, Kontiki, The Edge Pool: 3, including one indoor Spa: Yes

Gym: Yes Golf: 15 minutes away by car Sport: Tennis, water sports, diving

Wedding facilities

Venues suitable for Civil Ceremony / Blessing: The Edge 4 - 30 persons The Carlson Suite / Terrace 4 - 200 persons The Conservatory / Terrace 4 - 40 persons The Grand Ballroom / Terrace 40 500 persons

Venues for Wedding Dinner: The Edge Terrace 40 - 200 persons The Carlson Suite 40 - 100 persons The Grand Ballroom / Terrace 40 300 persons Le Bistro Upper Terrace 10 - 40 persons The Kontiki Restaurant / Terrace 2 200 persons

General information

Wedding contact: Victoria Hancock or Diana Michelli Telephone: +356 21374894 Address: Radisson Blu Resort, St Julians, St George’s Bay, St Julians STJ3391 Email: weddings.malta@radissonblu.com Web: www.islandhotels.com

HHHHH Urban chic meets serene relaxation at the super luxurious Palace Hotel Overview: The Palace provides a stunning mix of contemporary décor and old-fashioned elegance, and is one of Malta’s most sought-after five-star hotels.

Located in the centre of Sliema, one of the most stylish destinations on this charming island, The Palace is within walking distance of the rocky beach and buzzing nightspots St Julians and Paceville.

Think cosmopolitan yet relaxing, the hotel is the ultimate in luxury. Comfort and sterling service are the top priority and are impeccably offered by a top team of professionals.

The Palace offers a variety of exclusive venues that cater for every wedding day desire.

The Royal Hall, The State Hall, The Tabloid and Alexandra Gardens: all these sites have been designed from concept to décor stage in order to ensure the perfect setting for your once-ina-lifetime occasion.

Another incredible option is TemptAsian.

Panoramic views of Sliema and the

Grand Harbour together with a relaxing Asian themed setting and specialities, ensure your happy wedding memories will last a lifetime.

Adjoining The Palace is a monument of a bygone age. The unique 200-year-old Palazzo Capua, rich in architectural features and endowed with fine antiques, has recently been restored to its former grandeur.

And if your idea of a romantic break includes the power of indulgence, the stateof-the art spa is a must: enjoy one of the signature treatments, all carried out by fully qualified therapists.

The on-site wedding team at The Palace can organise your dream wedding for you and guide you every step of the way, allowing you to arrive on the Maltese island and find everything prepared for the big day.

Easy, affordable, perfect!

Hotel facilities:

Rooms: 149 Restaurants: TemptAsian, The Tabloid, Talk of Town Café Pools: 2 ( Outdoor + Indoor) Spa: Yes Gym: Yes Additional: 24 taxi service, seasonal bar – Lounge 360 open for the summer.

Palazzo Capua (200 year old building) – an extension of the hotel.

Wedding facilities:

Service/ceremony/blessing facilities: Yes, blessing facilities at the Catholic Parish Church opposite

Reception room and capacity: Royal Hall – banquet 120, reception 300 State Hall – banquet 100, reception 250 Tabloid – banquet 100, reception 250 TemptAsian – banquet 150, reception 450 TemptAsian Pool Deck – banquet 300, reception 550 Palazzo Capua – banquet 70, reception 200 Catering services: 4-star service & 5-star service both in-house & outside catering Hotel wedding planner: The Events Team Wedding couples suite: Yes

General information

Wedding contact: Sylvain Azzopardi Contact details: +356 21 333 444 Seasonal opening: Open all year round Telephone: +356 21 333 444 Address: AX Hotels, The Palace, High Street Sliema SLM 1542 Email events@thepalacemalta.com, info@palazzocapuamalta.com Web: www.thepalacemalta.com, www.palazzocapuamalta.com

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THE PALACE

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THE XARA PALACE HHHHH On your wedding day experience the grandeur and luxury of The Xara Palace Relais & Chateaux

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Overview:

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The Xara Palace Relais & Chateaux is an exclusive five-star boutique hotel in Mdina.

Housed within the walls of a 17th-century palazzo, and offering 17 individually designed suites and spectacular panoramic views over the island and out to sea, The Xara Palace is a landmark in the old capital of Mdina.

Now modernised to the highest international standards, this historic building still retains the time-honoured character for which it is renowned, and guests feel part of an intimate and secluded, yet eclectic atmosphere.

Weddings at The Xara Palace are as spectacular as the grand settings in which they take place. With our resident wedding planner we can make your wedding even more memorable that you could possibly imagine.

The atrium is the original covered courtyard of this 17th-century palazzo and offers a unique

outdoor feeling in an indoor space. Ideal for the smaller intimate celebrations, it will accommodate up to 150 guests at a stand-up reception.

The de Mondion restaurant and adjacent terraces are located on the uppermost level and form part of the original fortifications of Mdina. From these strategically located terraces one feels that the beautiful Island of Malta is magically in the palm of your hand.

A breathtaking view over a 180-degree span, with the deep blue Mediterranean Sea clearly visible on the horizon, offers an idyllic venue to host a wedding party of 150 guests at a stand-up reception or a seated dinner party for a maximum of 70 guests.

The piazza, as the word implies, is the majestic square situated directly outside the hotel. The splendid old buildings that form the square provide an impressive backdrop. This outdoor venue offers catering for a stand-up reception for 500 guests and a seated affair for 160 guests.

The Xara Palace catering is the added bonus that one is looking for when organising this special day. Satisfying your guests’ expectations by way of good food and an efficient bar service is the key to a memorable wedding – one that will be the talk of the town for many months to follow.

Hotel facilities:

Rooms: 17 rooms and suites Restaurants: 2 Gym: Available in-house

Pool: Not available. Four suites have a private terrace and jacuzzi.

Spa: Not available in-house but can be sub-contracted on request Golf: Available off site, 8km away

Wedding facilities:

Service/Ceremony/Blessing facilities: Civil ceremony can be organised in-house.

Two beautiful churches are within walking distance.

Reception room and capacity: The Atrium for up to 150 guests; the de Mondion for up to 60 guests dining; the de Mondion for up to 150 guests for a stand-up reception; the Piazza for up to 160 guests; the Piazza for up to 500 guests for a stand-up reception; The Xara Lodge for up to 800 guests.

Catering services: All in-house catering Hotel wedding planner: Yes Wedding couples suite: We offer a one night complimentary stay for couples requiring services for 40 guests and over Additional: We offer the option for clients to take over the entire palazzo for their wedding

General information

Wedding contact: Johanna Ward Telephone: 00356 21 450 560 Address: Misrah il-Kunsill, Mdina MDN 1050 Email: weddings@xarapalace.com.mt Web: www.xarapalace.com.mt

HHHH We will ensure your once-in-alifetime day is absolutely perfect from start to finish Overview It is every couple’s dream to celebrate that special day with a memorable ceremony, followed by an unforgettable reception surrounded by family and friends. Whether you want to go all out with a fully fledged celebration or prefer a more intimate gathering, the Cavalieri Hotel banqueting team can guarantee that your dream wedding will become a reality.

Choose from a vast array of exquisite hors d’oeuvres, grand five-course meals, rippling chocolate fountains or an impressive selection of cakes and sweets. Our esteemed executive chef and experienced food and beverage manager will ensure that you make the right choice to fit your budget, personality and needs.

It happens once in a lifetime, so you’ll understandably want your wedding day to be

perfect from start to finish. That’s where the highly experienced Cavalieri Hotel wedding team steps in. Our commitment is to look after you every step of the way; from the planning, organisation and co-ordination right through to the culmination of your special day. We will be close at hand to discuss each and every detail to make sure that your greatest expectations are surpassed.

The Cavalieri Hotel is a four-star establishment positioned in a quiet and unique setting directly overlooking the popular and picturesque St Julians Bay. Located on the doorstep of the Portomaso Yacht Marina, and within easy walking distance of the resort’s popular attractions, it is an ideal residence for you and your guests’ wedding stay.

The Cavalieri Hotel has 258 rooms as well as public areas that highlight the space and light the hotel’s advantageous location enjoys.

The lobby area is immediately welcoming with its striking views across St Julians Bay. The hotel has its own private lido with a large outdoor swimming pool, and indoor swimming pool which is enclosed within a solarium and there is also a sauna, fitness centre and massage room.

Local attractions include Malta’s most popular nightlife area, the Dragonara Casino and Spinola Bay – the heart of St Julians – a great place for you and your guests to have fun during your stay. The seafront and beautiful

promenade – with its many bars, restaurants and shops, as well as the main bus routes to Valletta and Sliema and the Gozo ferry terminal – are all close by.

At the Cavalieri Hotel we promise to look after everything, from the largest plans to smallest of details. All we ask in return is for you to focus on enjoying a flawless, romantic and memorable day!

Hotel facilities

Rooms: 258 Restaurants: 2 Pool: 2 Spa: Massage parlour Gym: Fitness room Additional: Sushi bar

Wedding facilities

Service/ceremony/blessing facilities: Can be arranged

Reception room and capacity: Various Catering services: Yes Hotel wedding planner: Yes Wedding couples suite: Yes

General information

Contact details: Ms Claire Sammut Telephone: +356 23180000 Address: Spinola road, St Julians Email: fb@cavalierihotel.com.mt Web: www.cavalierihotelmalta.com

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CAVALIERI HOTEL

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MAKE YOUR DATE WITH HISTORY

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By getting married in Gozo, Calypso’s famed island of love and romance, you will be falling into a world of beauty and inspiration

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Just five kilometres from Malta’s mainland, the island of Gozo is a tranquil oasis ideally suited to host the wedding of your dreams. The hidden beaches, rolling hills and historical villages provide the perfect backdrop for your big day, and its alluring blend of amazing activities and laidback lifestyle will entice you from the moment you arrive.

The journey from the Maltese mainland provides you with the perfect opportunity to get your wedding off to a special start. For many the short trip is made via a simple ferry, this is both regular and affordable which makes it extremely convenient for guests making the trip. However for those wanting a more spectacular entrance for their big day why not ride waves and charter a yacht, zoom over in a speed boat or perhaps make a real splash by flying in by seaplane!

Gozo is commonly referred to as the Island of Calypso; a name that originates from the Greek mythological location of Ogygia in Homer’s Odyssey. In the legendary epic, it is said that on this island Ulysses was bewitched by the nymph Calypso and spent seven long years as a prisoner of love. The fabled cave which served as Ulysses’s home can still be visited today, perched in the cliff face overlooking Ramla l-Hamra, one of Gozo’s most spectacular beaches.

Much like this famous tale, the island oozes a sense of magic, mystery and desire, making it the perfect place to be married and begin your own journey of fantasy. Gozo’s rich and dramatic landscape could be one of make believe and will feel like that to many as they walk through the island’s rich and lush landscape. Explore the spectacular natural scenery of Dwejra, home to the Azure Window

(one of the natural wonders of the world), or the breathtaking hidden cove of San Blas Bay and spectacular inlet of Mgarr Ix Ini. With the warm water and abundant sea life that surround the island, Gozo is one of the most highly rated dive spots in the Mediterranean and, with an idyllic backdrop at almost every turn, is a dream wedding setting.

The island’s capital, Victoria (still called Rabat by locals), is a delightful small town filled with narrow streets and sunlit squares.

The church, with its ornate interior of marble, gilt and ebony, is one of the many spectacular places to say ‘I do’ and provides a picturesque and romance filled setting for your ceremony.

The island’s centuries-old Cittadella is found in Victoria and is another of Gozo’s unforgettable wedding venues. The The renowned Ggantija Megalithic Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the church of St John in

a wedding banquet fit for the gods. With vast amounts of fresh organic meat, fruit and vegetable produce sourced through local farms, a generous supply of fresh fish and mix of unique spices - the taste buds will be left tingling. The island is famed for its Mediterranean fusion cooking and any wedding party will be equally amazed and delighted at the range of world class food on offer. For the wine lovers, why not choose what bottle to serve on the big day by exploring the local vineyards and the wide variety of grape bouquets on offer.

Accommodation on Gozo varies from beautiful authentic farmhouses to luxury villas and 5 and 4 star hotels, catering to all needs and budgets. Spectacular sea views and rustic landscapes are never hard to find wherever you choose to stay. Offering a diverse range of wedding formats, Gozo has

a variety of services available which make planning your ceremony stress free and great value for money.

For those wanting to explore the islands great history there is an array of museums, picturesque villages and ornate buildings and churches. The sandy and rocky beaches coupled with world class diving facilities, watersports and sailing ensures there is no shortage of entertainment for the more adventurous in your wedding party. From its amazing historical past of folklore and fact, to the modern shopping centres and eclectic restaurants; this is a region that contrasts and compliments in equal measure, ensuring there is something for everyone who visits.

With its sun-drenched Mediterranean climate, unspoilt rustic beauty and history on every corner, Gozo really is the ideal place to mark the most special day of your life. â?Ľ

gozo

the village of Xewkija, which boasts a building with the third largest unsupported dome in the world, add to the list of magnificent sites found on the island.

Like Malta, Gozo’s religion is Roman Catholic, but couples from other denominations or those preferring a civil ceremony will be able to find abundance of venues to suit them and in just as spectacular settings as the ornate churches throughout the island. Such a variety of wedding venues mean small intimate affairs as well as large wedding parties for hundreds can be catered for alike. So if you desire a centuries old church, palazzo, quaint farmhouse or luxurious hotel, Gozo can provide them all.

With its very own gastronomic specialties, Malta’s sister island never ceases to surprise the food aficionado. Hotels, restaurants and caterers in Gozo can present you with

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gozo 14

Top spots for…

Museums: The Natural Science Museum,

restaurants and cafes in every village. Ta’ Frenc is one of the finest restaurants on the island with an incredible eclectic menu that encapsulates all that is great with Gozo cuisine.

Pampering: Gozo is rightly known as a place to get away from it all.

The spa at the Kempinski San Lawrenz Hotel offers the ultimate in unadulterated relaxation.

Culture: The Basilica of Ta’ Pinu is a popular place of pilgrimage and probably the holiest site on the island.

the Museum of Archaeology, Gharb Folklore Museum and Maritime Museum are all fascinating places to visit.

History: The Ggantija Temples, which date back to 3600BC, is just one example of the many captivating sites available.

Views: Spectacular views are available from all over the island and at Ta’ Cenc cliffs you can enjoy unobstructed views of all three islands in the Maltese archipelago Diving: Caves, drop-offs, boulder slopes, a chimney and the famed Blue Hole dive site off the west coast make for world-class diving opportunities

Food Lovers: There are top-class

Gozo aims to be an eco island by 2020 and for those wanting a carbon friendly wedding there are a number of hotels on the island that are eco-certified.

Go to www.eco-gozo.com for more information.

Tourist Information Office in Gozo: Telephone: (356) 22915452 Address: No. 17, Independence Square Victoria, Gozo. VCT 1021 Web: www.visitmalta.com/gozo www.gozo.gov.mt ❤

HHHHH A small, exclusive celebration or a grand lavish affair, the Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz Gozo will add a touch of magic to the most important day of your life Overview In the heart of the Mediterranean, just south of Sicily, lies the small island Gozo. Here, set among its unspoiled landscape of green hills, dramatic cliffs and secluded bays, you will find one of the finest hotels in the Mediterranean – the Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz.

Kempinski is synonymous with luxury and attention to the smallest detail – so who better to look after you and your guests on the most important day of your life.

A little chapel awaits the fairy-tale bride, amid wild flowers and chirping birds. Then get whisked away to the celebrations of your marriage. A small intimate dinner? A grand luxurious banquet? It doesn’t matter, we spoil you for choice of indoor

or al fresco venues and we’ll add the touch of magic you deserve on your wedding day.

The Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz is a fivestar countryside resort offering the highest levels of service, comfort and style. Surrounded by 30,000sq/m of garden, the resort complex was built to fit architecturally into the yellow limestone.

It has 122 rooms and suites, which offer guests the ultimate in comfort, privacy and relaxation. Each room has a private balcony overlooking the beautiful valley of San Lawrenz, landscaped gardens or pool areas.

As a holiday is never complete without delicious cuisine, at the Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz dining is a delight for the eyes and the taste buds. For fine dining there is L’Ortolan restaurant or Trattoria San Lawrenz, both providing delicious Mediterranean and light Maltese cuisine with field fresh vegetables, olives, herbs and citrus picked fresh from the resort’s own garden.

Fishermen from the local village of San Lawrenz supply fresh fish for the barbecue buffet in the Gazebo garden. There is also one pool bar, a café & lounge with a sundown cocktail terrace and the finest pastries on the island as well as 24-hour room service.

At the Kempinski Spa, guests can relax their bodies and minds in one of the largest and best ayurvedic and spa centres in the Mediterranean. With a variety of retreats and treatments are available. There is also an

indoor pool area with jacuzzi, two outdoor pools and an outdoor children’s pool.

For more active guests, there are two tennis courts, two squash courts and a fitness centre.

The dive centre offers the opportunity to explore the amazing underwater world of Gozo.

Hotel facilities:

Rooms: 122 Restaurants: L’Ortolan Restaurant; Trattoria San Lawrenz; Cafe & Lounge Bar; Gazebo (open only in summer) Pool: 2 outdoor (one of which adults only), 1 outdoor family pool, 2 indoor Spa: Yes Gym: Yes

Wedding facilities:

Service/ceremony/blessing facilities: Yes Reception room and capacity: Meeting rooms, plus outdoor up to 250 pax Catering services: yes Hotel wedding planner: Yes Wedding couples suite: Yes

General information

Wedding contact: Deryk Sacco Telephone: +356 22115211 Address: Triq ir-Rokon, San Lawrenz SLZ1040, Gozo Email: deryk.sacco@kempinski.com Web: www.kempinski.com/gozo

venues

KEMPINSKI HOTEL SAN LAWRENZ

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HOTEL TA CENC & WELLNESS SPA HHHHH Every desire you have is catered for on your perfect day

venues

Overview

16

Words are often not enough to describe the beauty of the perfect wedding day.

Could this be why so many couples from across the world choose Ta Cenc as the venue for their perfect wedding?

Located on the beautiful island of Gozo, there are unrivalled opportunities to make your wedding dream come true – with 45 churches, magnificent cathedrals and 400-year-old chapels tucked away in peaceful valleys all over the island. You cannot fail to find the perfect venue to say ‘I do’. Civil marriages are held within the grounds of Ta Cenc, inside the unique setting of the 17th-century Palazzo Palina built by a grandmaster of the Knights of St John.

The reception held inside this palazzo will make your special day a truly unforgettable

one. First-class catering and every other desired service is co-ordinated by our expert team at the hotel.

If you want to arrive at your ceremony in a horse-drawn carriage, have a choir accompanied by a small orchestra or simply a piano to enrich the ceremony, the photographers and videographers, the florists, hairstylists and entertainers – everything is catered for at a Ta Cenc wedding. Nothing is too much trouble.

And why not finish the day with a local fireworks display, which are among the best in the world? Their exuberance has often been used to reflect the emotions of this special day.

Several celebrities have chosen to hold their wedding at Ta Cenc and there is a reason why – each wedding is planned as an individual event, which makes it exclusive and original.

The history and beauty of the surroundings encapsulates everything you desire for your dream day. And all this at a price that is significantly better value than anything offered by many other European destinations!

Hotel Facilities

Rooms: 83 Restaurants: 2 Pool: 1 adults, 1 family as well as 1 heated indoor/outdoor pool located at the spa Spa: Yes

Gym: Yes Golf: No Sport: 2 tennis courts, diving, cycling, horseback riding Additional: Restaurant at the private beach (open 2012)

Wedding Facilities

Service/ceremony/blessing facilities: Yes Reception room and capacity: Various 2 pax -500 pax

Catering services: Yes Hotel wedding planner: Yes Wedding couples suite: Yes Venues: 17th-century Palazzo Palina, beach

General information

Wedding contact: David Xerri Telephone: +356 22191000 Address: Cenc Street, Sannat, Gozo Email: davidxerri@vjborg.com Web: www.tacenc.com

HHHH A stone’s throw away from the bright, blue, Mediterranean Sea sits the hotel of your wedding dreams Overview:

after a sunny winter break or sun-drenched summer holiday. For those after something a bit more adventurous, you can try diving in the clear waters or take long walks in the countryside, Hotel Calypso offers the perfect cocktail of comfortable surroundings, breathtaking views and friendly service to accompany your island vacation. The picturesque local area is lively in summer while tranquil and quiet during the rest of the year.

The town has around 300 full-time inhabitants and serves as the summer residence for many locals who, like tourists, are drawn to its picturesque setting and welcoming atmosphere.

Hotel Calypso’s reputation for fine food and excellent services date back to its early days. Fresh fare, seasonal ingredients and exciting recipes are the order of the day whatever your palate and with six in-house options to choose from you’ll definitely be spoilt for choice.

Enjoyable all year round, Hotel Calypso’s spacious sundeck is a great place to watch the sunset at the end of your most memorable of days.

If you’re considering a Mediterranean ceremony then you’ve come to the right place – a wedding at Hotel Calypso in Gozo is the perfect solution.

The island is the ideal destination for a romantic retreat, and the Hotel Calypso is a highly regarded name that you can trust for your big day, from organising your ceremony and reception, to planning the little details that will ensure it’s a time you’ll remember forever.

Perfectly positioned on the north shore of Gozo, in the fishing harbor of Marsalforn, Hotel Calypso is a delightful haven only a short ferry ride from Malta, its larger and busier sister. Merging an eclectic history and Hotel facilities exciting culture with scenic views and our Rooms: 100 world-famous Mediterranean hospitality, Restaurants: 2 Gozo is the ideal place to relax, whether you’re Pool: Yes

Wedding facilities:

Service/ceremony/blessing facilities: Yes Reception room and capacity: 220 seated Catering services: Yes Hotel wedding planner: Yes, upon request Wedding couples suite: Yes

General information

Wedding contact: John Portelli Telephone: +356 21562000 Address: Hotel Calypso, Marsalforn Bay, Marsalforn, Gozo, MFN 1104 Email: info@hotelcalypsogozo.com Web: www.hotelcalypsogozo.com

venues

HOTEL CALYPSO

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caterers

OSBORNE CATERERS AT VILLA ARRIGO

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Exceptional catering and chic wedding receptions.

Organising your wedding is one of the most special and personal events of your life. At Osborne Caterers we understand this, so to ensure your magical day is as perfect as you imagined we limit the number of weddings we style and cater for each year. This allows time for us to really get to know you and understand exactly what you want for your dream day.

At Osborne Caterers we have a reputation for being an exceptional outside caterer – meaning that we are not part of a restaurant or hotel but that we operate independently to give you the very best service.

We specialise in weddings and corporate function catering, but our expertise extends to private parties, dinners, barbecues and more.

Our bespoke catering service is hands on – we will assist you through all aspects of the varied and delectable offerings we provide, ensuring it matches your tastes and budget.

We are passionate about cuisine and delivering fine food made with fresh ingredients.

Osborne Caterers can keep the drinks flowing at your reception by providing you with well-stocked bars; and with our waiting staff on hand we guarantee the service will be exceptional. Also available are marquees, tables,

occasion. Allow us, or together with your chosen wedding planner, to arrange everything down to the smallest detail.

If you require somewhere to hold your reception then look no further than our premier venue – the stunning Villa Arrigo. This beautiful location has an array of reception areas, including the main house, the grand marquee, the upper gardens and lower gardens. The venue can cater for all sizes of reception – from an intimate gathering to 1500 guests at an extravagant party.

Villa Arrigo is also ideally situated across the road from a chapel, making it extremely convenient for a church wedding.

Osborne Caterers wants you to have the perfect reception you deserve, with the best possible food and finest service.

Please contact us for further details and assistance in planning your function, we look forward to hearing from you.

General information

Email: info@osbornecaterers.com Web: www.osbornecaterers.com

caterers

chairs, linen, cutlery, crockery, décor, flower arrangements and all that you can imagine to make your function an outstanding success!

Our aim is to provide exceptional cuisine with professional, consistent and reliable service, and we will gladly meet you at your function venue to plan your event. Food is prepared in our spotless and spacious kitchen to maintain the highest standards of hygiene, care and excellence throughout the preparation. You are most welcome to tour our facility at any time convenient to you.

From glamorous black-tie to relaxed and informal, we will make your event a memorable

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TA’ FRENC RESTAURANT Providing all the essential ingredients for the perfect wedding...

restaurants

Overview:

20

Based in Gozo, surrounded by beautiful countryside views of Xaghra, Zebbug and Marsalforn, Ta’ Frenc restaurants authentic aged farmhouse provides an idyllic spot for your perfect Malta wedding reception.

Hold your reception or even the ceremony itself at Ta’ Frenc, and you are guaranteed the most perfect wedding imaginable. From the moment we receive your enquiry at Ta’ Frenc, our dedicated wedding coordinator will oversee every detail from beginning to end, to ensure that your special day is truly memorable. Our experienced and professional staff will guide you through the many necessary preparations and help with flowers, your wedding cake, place cards, printed menus and limousines.

Bring us your vision and let us show you its realisation. From intimate to extravagant, traditional to unexpected, Ta’ Frenc is at your service and dedicated to creating an unforgettable wedding experience that is uniquely yours.

We have a choice of reception areas in an array of styles. Select from the sumptuous Wine Cellar, or the restored Executive Dining Room. For those who want an alfresco affair why not choose our stunning Garden, which we believe is one of the best outdoor locations you will ever find.

Our Executive Chef believes in sourcing local produce, working with farmers on Gozo for the supply of the freshest fruit, vegetables and meat. Chickens, quails and rabbits are reared locally for the restaurant and the Mediterranean’s best fish and seafood is caught daily by local fishermen. Bread is baked in-house, the sun-dried salt comes from salt pans in Xwejni, and the honey used to sweeten herbal infusions, prepared with freshly picked herbs from the garden, is pure Gozo honey. These details all add up to a unique dining experience that has become unmistakably Ta’ Frenc.

An extensive and award-winning wine list, with circa 700 different labelled wines available, all housed in a stunning, purpose built, climate controlled cellar. We offer wines from local vineyards as well as from around the world, in order to give guests the very best in choice and value. Ta’ Frenc was the first restaurant in the Maltese islands to introduce its ownlabel house champagne, bottled and shipped exclusively for Ta’ Frenc by Boizel. So what better way to celebrate you wedding day then with a bottle of our vintage champagne.

Ta’ Frenc spells chic: its walls are adorned with original works of art by local artists and a collection of traditional Maltese clocks, and a lovely collection of decanters are displayed in niches along the walls. Its décor is a beautiful melange of traditional and modern – the older part of the restaurant was a farmhouse and the animals’ mangers are still visible.

Our luxurious Honeymoon Package of one night’s accommodation, with Ta’ Frenc Champagne, fruit and flowers on arrival is surely the perfect end to the perfect day.

Wedding facilities:

Service/ceremony/blessing facilities: On request Reception room: 9 Indoor and outdoor venues available Capacity: Up to 350 in an individual reception room. More with multiple rooms Catering services: Yes Wedding planner: Yes Additional: Honeymoon night stay available

General information

Wedding contact: Joseph Tabone Telephone: 00356 21553888 Mobile: 79454794 Address: Ghajn Damma Street (Halfway between Victoria & M’forn) Xaghra, Gozo, Malta Email: info@tafrencrestaurant.com Web: www.tafrencrestaurant.com

The experts helping you to tie the knot on the Maltese islands In 2004, Mark and Mariella Burton decided to leave their positions as managers for one of the main British tour operators to start their own wedding planning company. Dream Days was born.

Since then, Mark and Mariella have arranged close to 300 weddings on the Maltese islands, ranging from intimate affairs for two to larger parties for 200 guests and more.

Dream Days wedding couples come mainly from Ireland and Britain, but the company also caters for other English speaking areas around the world such as the United States, Australia and Scandinavia.

Mark, the director of sales, says: “Our wedding couples deserve exceptional service and a stress free wedding, and that is what we offer. We always strive to go that extra mile and that is what sets us apart from other wedding planners in Malta.”

References from Dream Days customer’s confirm that they agree with Mariella and Mark, and these are readily available from

the company. Dream Days’ Facebook page is also a great way to read about what the company is up to on a day-to-day basis and offers an opportunity to interact with other wedding couples.

Mariella, the director of events planning, loves planning weddings of all shapes and sizes and says: “We plan every wedding as if it was that of our daughters. We give 110 per cent and our biggest reward is watching months of preparation smoothly unfold before our eyes on the day of the wedding”.

Dream Days offers a selection of stunning venues, from an elegant 19th-century country manor situated in the heart of a quaint village to a 200-year-old Maltese farmhouse surrounded by a vineyard and orange grove. We also have numerous venues by the sea overlooking the clear blue waters of the Mediterranean.

Should a church wedding be desired, the presence of some 365 churches on the islands means there is an excellent choice of venue. There is the elegance and splendour of baroque parish churches or the intimacy and seclusion of countryside chapels.

Although Malta’s religion is Roman Catholic, other religious denominations are widely represented in Malta.

Some couples are looking for a lavish and luxury wedding, while others desire a casual and informal affair. Either way, Dream Days believes that the perfect recipe for the perfect

wedding is… good food, good wine, good music and the beautiful warm climates the Maltese Islands have to offer.

Add in a stress free process and stunning locations, and you have all the reasons you need to book your wedding with Dream Days on the Maltese Islands.

Mariella and Mark are waiting for you to contact them to get the ball rolling… please contact Dream Days today for a free no obligation quote.

General information

Wedding contact: Mark Burton or Mariella Burton Telephone: +356 9962 7899 or +356 7788 7700 Address: Dream Days Wedding Planners, 83 Triq Idmejda, Balzan, BZN 1520 Email: info@dream-days.com Web: www.dream-days.com

wedding planners

DREAM DAYS WEDDINGS

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OUR MALTESE DREAM

real weddings

When Shane, from Ireland, and Kamala, from Sweden, decided to tie the knot they wanted a Mediterranean dream spot and found that Malta had everything they wanted and more, as the delighted bride explains

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The meeting…

The look…

We first met in a pub in Galway when I was over there on holiday and it was certainly love at first sight! I ended up moving to Ireland to be with Shane and it wasn’t long before we became engaged.

I wore a slim A-line dress, with a corset bodice. The bodice was made of Italian lace and the skirt was layered in the same lace, it had lace cuff sleeves and around the bodice there was a white satin band that tied around the back. I teamed this with diamond earrings with a single pearl, a pearl bracelet and a single pearl gold necklace.

Shane wore a grey three-piece suit with a white shirt and grey tie, and the bridesmaids wore offthe-shoulder long chiffon dresses in shale green.

The proposal…

Shane took me away for a long weekend in New York and while on a romantic walk through Central Park he produced a fake ring and popped the question. The proposal took me by surprise, but there was no doubt about my answer and I said ‘yes’ immediately. I couldn’t have asked for a more romantic setting.

The location…

As we are from different countries it made perfect sense to get married abroad, and

the Mediterranean weather and scenery was something we both agreed was a must. Italy was somewhere we considered at first, but after a trip to Malta in February last year we saw it had everything we wanted and didn’t need to look any further – we fell in love with the beautiful island and lovely people straight away. When we returned home we knew we were making the right decision.

The planning…

We planned everything with the help of Dream Days Weddings, who made the whole event a fantastic experience from start to finish. We both have very busy jobs, so it would have been impossible without them.

The big day…

We arrived in Malta a week before the big day to make sure all the final preparations were in place and to enjoy the island.

Seventy-five guests joined us, with many of them treating it as a holiday and staying in Malta for a week or two. There was a great

choice of accommodation on offer and our guests stayed in villas and hotels close to St Julians Bay. On the day itself, the delivery of the flowers, along with the hair and beauty and make-up all added to the excitement of the day before Shane and his best man, his brother Aiden, left for the venue around 3pm and I followed in a Jaguar about 45 minutes later.

All of our guests waited at the poolside on the terrace of the farmhouse and we were married at Razzet L’abjad in a wonderful civil ceremony underneath the vines in a traditional Maltese villa with a vineyard.

Following the ceremony, drinks and canapés in the gardens of the venue, we

enjoyed a lavish buffet with a choice of slowroasted leg of pork with cider and sage gravy, pan-fried fillets of sea bass on a sauteed cheery tomato and germolata dressing or chicken supreme with asparagus & leek in sherry cream sauce.

Some interesting traditions from Sweden were introduced to the wedding, including the tinkling of spoons in the wine glasses by the guests, which signals to the bride and groom to kiss!

Our amazing day ended with us dancing underneath the vines until 2am, when we left our guests to start our honeymoon in Malta, Rome and Sorrento. ❤

real weddings

We went to Malta to meet Mark from Dream Days, who took us to a number of different locations and we fell in love with the first one we saw – Razzet L’abjad Farmhouse and Vineyard. Sixteen months and 400 emails between us and Dream Days later, we were ready to get married there.

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wedding planners

DISCOVER MALTA & MEDITERRANEAN WEDDINGS

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Whatever your wedding dream, fulfil it with Discover Malta Established in 2005, Discover Malta is a leader in the wedding planning sector and is renowned for consistent attention to detail and focus. Operated and managed by the wedding planner herself, the goal is to provide wedding couples with undivided attention throughout the entire organisation and planning process of each and every unique wedding.

A one-stop wedding planner located in the heart of St Julians, Discover Malta is a boutique provider for all types of wedding budgets and styles. All of our weddings take place in breathtaking venues located across the Maltese Islands. Discover Malta has organised over 400 weddings & events in the Mediterranean using carefully selected providers to ensure quality and excellence at any cost. Contact the wedding planning team directly for an unbeatable package in wedding design and etiquette.

Discover Malta cater for the following weddings: Bespoke Weddings in Malta, the Blue Lagoon Comino and Gozo; Traditional Indian Weddings; Same Sex Weddings; Beach Weddings; Civil Blessings & Marriage Ceremonies; Church Weddings; Sit-down Dinners, Buffet’s, BBQs, Receptions

Services: An A to Z of all wedding related services across the Maltese Islands including flowers, photography, musicians, live bands, bridal car, wedding transport, hair stylists, wedding make-up artists, marriage registration/legalities to marry in Malta, post and pre-wedding events and honeymoons.

General information

Contact details: The Wedding Team at Discover Malta/Discover Malta & Mediterranean Weddings on Facebook.

Telephone: +356 99882225 Locations: St Julians Malta, London, Dublin, New Jersey USA. Email: info@discovermaltanow.com Web: www.discovermaltanow.com

MALTA AND GOZO – AT A GLANCE The Islands The three main islands, Malta, Gozo and Comino are inhabited, while the three smaller islands Cominotto, Filfla and St. Paul’s Island are uninhabited.

Location Located in the centre of the Mediterranean, the Maltese Islands are some 62 miles south of Sicily.

Malta is the largest landmass of the Maltese Islands and covers 246 kilometres squared with 136 kilometres of coastline. Gozo is approximately 67 kilometres squared and has 50 kilometres of coastline. Comino covers only 2.7 kilometres squared.

Time: GMT +1

•

• • • • •

International dialling code: 00 356

Driving

The population of Malta is over 410,000 people.

Driving is on the left. The speed limit is 64 km/h on country roads and 40 km/h in built-up areas. International and national driving licenses are required for car hire.

Language:

Travel information

The official languages are Maltese and English. Many residents are multi lingual.

The Maltese Islands are easily accessible from across the UK. Flights are direct and only take approximately three hours.

Malta International Airport is just 20 minutes from Valletta For further information on which airlines fly into Malta from International gateways please visitwww.visitmalta.com/getting_there

Population:

Currency: The official currency is the Euro. Many hotels and larger shops and restaurants also accept foreign currency.

Entry requirements Entry Visas are not required by anyone holding a passport from the European Union. Please check with the Malta High Commission for entry requirements of any other nationalities.

Telephone: 020 7292 4800.

Church of Scotland & Methodist Church of Great Britain Jewish Synagogue Bible Baptist Church Greek Orthodox Church Pentecostal Church Mosque

Civil weddings

The Marriage Registry – Malta Address: Evans Buildings, Merchants Street, Valletta Telephone: +356 2220 9212/3/4/5/6/7 Email: pubreg.marriage@gov.mt

The Marriage Registry – Gozo Address: Down Town, Triq L-Ewropa, Victoria VCT2732, Gozo Telephone: +356 22199 9200 Email: info@gov.mt

Marriage information

Getting married in Malta and Gozo

Religious denominations represented locally include: • Roman Catholic Church • Church of England (Anglican) • Evangelical Baptist Church

Marriages in the Maltese Islands are subject to the provisions of the Marriage Act, 1975, which became effective on the 12th August 1975. For further information kindly email pubreg.marriage@gov.mt

Climate Malta has a typical Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, and humid winters .

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Days of sunshine Malta

18

22

25

28

28

30

30

29

27

24

21

17

Temperature (C) Malta

14

15

16

20

24

29

31

33

29

25

16

12

Hours of Sunshine

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

11

9

8

7

6

Rainfall (cm) Malta

90

60

39

27

10

1

0

6

43

78

91

110

The MTA would like to thank the following companies and photographers for contributing images to this supplement: Alan Venables, Clive Vella, Isabelle Zammit, Mario Casirgaghi, Ted Attard, Bride Malta, Dream Day Weddings and On Site Malta.

information

Size

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Published by Pelusa: www.pelusa.co.uk