Ellen and Henrik opted for a destination wedding for many of the same reasons as most couples: “We wanted to gather all our loved ones at one of our favorite spots in the World – like having a vacation with everyone you care about.” What made this Swedish couple’s nuptials exceptional was their choice of the beautiful island of Malta.

“[Nearly] the entire island is built out of limestone, which gives the island a very rustic and romantic, pale look,” says the bride. “We also wanted to have our wedding at a location where you don’t have to worry about the weather – Malta has roughly 320 sunny days a year, so we felt calm about getting [our wish.]”

Henrik and Ellen own a vacation home on Malta, so this gave them an advantage when it came to the logistics of planning a destination wedding. “We know many people on the island and they were all very nice to us and helped out…it would have been harder without them since we did not have a wedding planner,” says Ellen.

On the big day, the couple exchanged vows in a ceremony led by a friend and surrounded by 90 of their nearest and dearest. They put special touches on the big day in the form of transportation. “All the guests were transported in two old, local Maltese busses – which got stuck in an alley on the way and arrived at the ceremony 30 minutes later than planned!” laughs Ellen.

In the end, Ellen and Henrik got what they were after when it came to their destination wedding – a gorgeous backdrop, lots of quality time with family and friends, and a party none of their guests will soon forget. The bride has some words of advice for other couple’s planning a wedding away, “Be well prepared so you feel you have everything under control, then when the day comes, let go of everything! Just focus on getting married and have trust in your friends/family/wedding planner.”

Vendors: Ceremony and Reception Site: Palazzo Parisio in Naxxar, Malta, Photography: Alicia Swedenborg, Floral Design: David Grech with The Floral Designer, DJ: DJ Coco from Sweden, Hair & Makeup: Malin Holmström from Björn Axén, Sweden, Cake Topper: Etsy, Wedding Gown: Yolan Cris, Shoes: Christian Louboutin, Hairpiece: Lo Boheme, Groom’s Attire: Bluecut from Douglas Menswear, Bridesmaids’ Attire: By Malina, Groomsmens’ Attire: Tiger of Sweden.