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Love Letters
Let our Malina brides inspire you through Love Letters, an article series that takes you inside the weddings of our beautiful real-life couples dressed in Malina from all around the world, sharing their best tips and experiences from their biggest day in life
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WEDDING BY THE SEA AT MARSTRAND
Get inspired by beautiful Jennifer and Adam's wedding on the swedish west coast and charming little island Marstrand. Photographer: Natalie Greppi, Make-up: @makeupbyjaqueline
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How did you decide on your wedding dress?
I tried on several different models and styles, ranging from lace, tulle, and A-line to something more understated. In the end, I decided on a classic and simple dress that exuded a bit of an "I have nothing to prove" attitude. Carmen gown was therefore the perfect choice.
Bridal dress: Carmen bridal gown
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How did you prepare for your wedding day?
My four bridesmaids and I got ready in the bridal suite at the Grand Hotel Marstrand, and it was also where we spent our wedding night. We thought it created a beautiful overall experience with Marstrand and its stunning houses and facades, the fortress, the Grand Hotel dating back to 1892 with a view over the harbor, and the rustic reception venue Sillsalteriet, which also has its origins in the 19th century.
Pajamas: Sasha robe / Eye mask: Bride eye mask
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Tell us about your look. What is your favorite detail with your wedding dress?
I added a little flair to the dress by opting for a half-up hairstyle and bridal shoes with an open toe, featuring a 12 cm heel with a platform. My veil is also from Malina (Luxe Veil) and in the morning, I had a fan from Malina as well. I love the square neckline on my dress, which feels incredibly classic and tasteful.
Bridal dress: Carmen bridal gown / Hair accessories: Luxe veil
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How did you choose location as the venue for your wedding?
We fell in love with the reception venue Sillsalteriet instantly. First and foremost, we adore Marstrand and the Swedish west coast. Sillsalteriet, with its origins from the 19th century, exposed wooden beams, and its location right at the entrance to Marstrand harbor, felt warm, inviting, and relaxed - just as we wanted it. The entire party arrived there by boat from Marstrand Island, giving all our guests a fantastic view of the entire Marstrand, which truly sparkled on this sunny day. Add a live band on the deck to that, and you'll understand the magic!
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How did you pick your bridal bouquet?
My bridal bouquet, featuring shades of burgundy, was a tribute to my grandmother who passed away during the pandemic (we are one of the couples who had to postpone our wedding from 2020 to 2022), so it felt very sad that she wasn't with us on our big day as she was an important person in my life. My grandmother loved flowers, especially red ones. It felt special that the bridal bouquet held such symbolism, and she was truly with us throughout the day.
Bridal dress: Carmen bridal gown / Hair accessories: Luxe veil
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Tell us about your choice regarding table setting and decorations?
We had small vases on the tables with flowers in the same colors as in my bridal bouquet and the bridesmaids' bouquets. We tied a ribbon with jute twine around the cloth napkins and we had created booklets in a matching design (with a seashell on them, which we thought suited so nicely since we were right by the sea) as the ceremony program (By Stina Design). We hung white pennants from the ceiling and placed fairy lights in the ceiling, which really added a lot. We also had a Polaroid camera that prints out the photos instantly. We asked the guests to take pictures and paste them into the guest book if they wanted to write a greeting. It was a lovely touch and we have many wonderful photos from it.
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Can you share a fun detail from your wedding?
Some fun details are that we had a live band and a saxophonist throughout the day - in the church, on the boat trip from Marstrand Island to the reception venue Sillsalteriet, during the mingle, and at the party. It really set the mood from the very beginning!
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Was there any moment during the day that was extra special too you?
An extra special moment was our first dance as a married couple. We had it outdoors under a clear starry sky. Our guests had large sparklers and we danced to Ed Sheeran - "Thinking Out Loud". Since the venue is on the mainland opposite Marstrand Island, we had a truly magical view of Marstrand Island in the evening light with the fortress perched at the top of the island. After a while, my dad took over from my husband, and all our guests started dancing too. I've heard several people say afterwards that it was truly a "moment" and that they kind of fell in love with their partners all over again. So, so beautiful!
Bridal dress: Carmen bridal gown / Hair accessories: Luxe veil
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What advice to you have for other couples getting married?
Put a lot of planning into the details. It doesn't have to be expensive; many things can be done yourself or found second-hand. Choose your toastmasters carefully based on who can convey the atmosphere you want at the wedding. We wanted to kick off the party atmosphere already during the dinner, so our toastmasters hid party props under the tables (for example LED foam sticks and glow glasses) and assigned one person per table to be responsible for getting the party started. When someone gave a speech, a song of their choice played, and it should be a bit up-tempo. Looking back on it, we invested endless hours in planning, and it makes the wedding feel like so much more than "just a day".
Bridal dress: Carmen bridal gown
Photographs captured by Natalie Greppi