16 Sky Time SEPTEMBER

wedding destinations

Wedding bells in Malta

PEoPlE alWayS aSk “how do you know when you have met the ‘one’”? I also wondered that in my single days and then I met my now husband Mark. I definitely think we were destined to meet! I’m from Galway in Ireland and he’s from Cape Town in South Africa and we met in Dubai where we both still work and live. We first met in 2004 and stayed in contact for many years – I left Dubai, went home to Ireland and came back after a couple of years when we eventually got together. We had the most romantic picnic in the park and from that day I knew I would spend the rest of my life with Mark because I didn’t want the day to end.

After a great two years together and after courteously asking my father for my hand, Mark spontaneously popped the question at home one evening. I’ll never forget it as I had a huge smile all evening and we even kept the champagne cork as a memory.

We then started the task of where and when to get married which was a bit challenging as we are both from different countries and live in Dubai. Our first inclination was to have the wedding in Ireland – picturesque, lots of family could come, a great holiday for everyone plus its home for me so I could get a lot of

help with the organizing. But on second thoughts, we decided to go for something different and in particular a wedding destination. After much discussion we decided on Malta in June. It was a no-brainer really; the Med, amazing weather and a great holiday for everyone.

We came across Sarah Young Wedding Planner online and from the moment we rang Sarah, I knew we were going to be in very professional and experienced hands. I could not get over how quick Sarah responded to every query we had – every question and concern was quickly answered and dealt with immediately. Every time we came to Malta to look at the venue, church, food, hair and make-up trials, we were spoiled with the personal attention and service from Sarah, her assistant Lisa and the team.

The week leading up to our wedding day was brilliant. We had exclusive use of a Turkish gullet and spent the day with all our wedding guests sailing around and diving into the clear blue waters of the Blue Lagoon in Comino and Gozo a couple of days before the wedding.

The wedding day itself was magical and unforgettable. Everything went perfectly again thanks to Sarah, Lisa

and the team. Our guests were amazed by everything from the beautiful, historic church, the stunning picturesque venue to the granita-stand, fireworks and fabulous DJ. We never had to worry or stress about anything as it was all taken care of by Sarah and the team. We really couldn’t have asked for more – and the guests still talk about it.

Irene’s dress and those of the Bridesmaids: Vera Wang New York Irene’s bridesmaids: Rita and Aisling

Mark’s Bestmen: Steve and Rob Wedding Planner: Sarah Young www.weddingplannermalta.com