Sonali and Kenan’s cross-cultural romance in Malta

When Sonali, an Indian-British bride, and Kenan, a Turkish groom, first met at work, neither could have imagined that cosy Italian dinners and shared laughter over coffee breaks would one day lead them to exchange vows overlooking the Mediterranean. Their love, which blossomed quietly, found its way into their rituals—Kenan even learned to make pistachio tiramisu just for Sonali, a nod to their favourite dessert and the sweetness of their bond.

Choosing Malta—with its medieval streets, stunning views, and culinary delights—felt natural for the couple, who wanted a destination that celebrated both their cultures while offering timeless romance. With the expertise of Momente Weddings and the visual storytelling of Raabta by Shrey Bhagat, their cross-cultural wedding became an unforgettable experience for everyone who attended.

The festivities began with a Roman holiday-inspired welcome dinner at Upper Barrakka Gardens, where guests dined under the stars amidst sculptures and Renaissance-inspired décor, embracing the grandeur of Valletta’s panoramic views. The haldi ceremony brought a playful twist with a nod to Phoebe Buffay’s “You’re my lobster” line, adding vibrant Maltese summer energy to the tradition while capturing the couple’s shared humour.

Rather than a conventional sangeet, Sonali and Kenan chose to showcase Malta’s nightlife, leading their guests through an evening of music and laughter that celebrated the island’s often-overlooked evening culture. Their wedding ceremony, held in a tranquil seaside garden, featured a floral mandap and Mdina glass elements, seamlessly merging Indian traditions with Malta’s local essence as the couple exchanged vows in Manish Malhotra couture.

The celebrations concluded with a show-stopping reception styled after the baroque opulence of Europe and the romance of Phantom of the Opera, set dramatically against the Grand Harbour at sunset—a fitting finale to a celebration defined by love, heritage, and timeless beauty.

“After months of planning, I was so excited to see everything come together,” Sonali shared. “Our bond started simple—he liked my smile, I liked his eyes, and we shared a sense of humour. We just knew it was meant to happen, and I couldn’t have been happier as we finally tied the knot.”

Sonali and Kenan’s wedding was not just an event but a reflection of a love that transcends borders, proving that when heritage and heart come together, the celebration is nothing short of magical.

All images: Raabta by Shrey Bhagat

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