It was in November 2015 that Andrea Borgese and Lena Pysmena moved to Malta – and their new island home became the location of their wedding when the pair got engaged.
The plan was to get married on 1st June 2020, with their friends and family flying in from Italy and Germany to share in the celebrations. But then, COVID-19 happened, and along with countless couples around the world, Lena and Andrea had to cancel their plans.
The couple had all but given up on celebrating their wedding, and spoke about shifting it to October, but when Malta’s Prime Minister announced the loosening of restrictions and re-opening of restaurants last week, they had an idea.
“We came up with a plan to celebrate with our friends living here on the island, and then have another party in Germany once the airport re-opens! We still had our appointment at the Civil Registry, so we decided to plan an intimate wedding,” the newlyweds reveal, fresh from tying the knot just yesterday.
Their venue was the one they chose originally, on the beach at Paradise Bay, but a lot of the other elements had to be rethought, and fast!
“We planned everything in 10 days,” they share, adding that a number of their suppliers – much like their family and friends – couldn’t make it as they were stuck in other countries. “Originally our photographer and videographer were coming from abroad too, so the plans needed to change, and we had to re-organise it. We were so lucky to find Kris and James – they were amazing.”
Indeed, for photographer Kris Micallef, being contacted to shoot a wedding a few short days before the date was definitely unusual, but he knew it would be unique from the start. “I knew they were going to be a fun couple, knowing how relaxed they were about planning their new version of their wedding,” says Kris. “The experience was great from start to finish – it was super relaxed and there were so many happy vibes! I love intimate weddings and also love the location they went for. It was very different to what we're used to working at, so it was nice to experience it.”
Videographer James Abdilla agrees, adding, "although this wedding was different due to the current challenging situation it was very cheerful, with a relaxed and romantic mood. The couple had to lessen the number of guests but this ended up helping them to further enjoy and appreciate their special day. In addition to this, we had more time to spend with the couple to capture their day better. The couple was very affectionate and emotional."
The couple share his thoughts about the setting, describing it as a beautiful, authentic and natural celebration. “It was great to be able to share it with our friends, and the location was awesome. The staff and band were amazing too – we really had a good time. It was so nice to see everyone having fun and enjoying the music,” they reveal, extending their thanks to Wembley Motors too, for coming through with a beautiful vintage car at the last minute.
It’s clear that the couple made the best out of their situation and have some words of encouragement for couples who have also been affected by the pandemic. “It’s all about love – we’ve heard so many stories about couples being sad about postponing their day, and of course we understand the feeling. We decided not to wait and make the most of it, and we don’t regret it! Whatever you choose to do, it will be alright, and it will happen when it happens,” says Lena sweetly.
Andrea’s advice, meanwhile, is that of a typical groom. “Definitely have an open bar – the guests will love it!”
Congratulations you two!
Photos by Kris Micallef