A love story that began in a lecture hall at Newcastle University’s Law School recently found its grand celebration in Malta, and it caught the attention of The New York Times to boot!

Earlier this month, Braxton Osei-Bonsu and Ricky Handa tied the knot in not one, but two spectacular ceremonies on the island. On July 16th, the couple exchanged vows in front of 110 guests at the stunning Palazzo Parisio in Naxxar. The civil ceremony, officiated by Amanda Grech from the Malta Public Registry, was followed by a Christian blessing to honour the bride’s faith.

Just two days later, on July 18th, celebrations continued with a vibrant Hindu ceremony and lively Indian wedding festivities at Villa Bologna in Attard, paying tribute to Ricky’s family heritage. The couple’s love story is also one of cultures – Braxton’s father is Ghanaian and Irish, while her mother is Vietnamese – making their Malta wedding the ultimate fusion of traditions.

The groom’s connection to Malta goes back to his twenties, when he visited the island and fell in love with its charm. Returning years later for their wedding, the couple wove local touches throughout their celebrations: Maltese dancers performing to traditional folk music, décor in red and white to reflect the Maltese flag, and a menu featuring local favourites, including the much-loved pastizzi.

Every special moment was beautifully captured by Maltese wedding photographer Frank Balzan, whose images of the ecstatic couple dancing the night away were featured in The New York Times.

Congrats to the newlyweds!