Last week we posted Effie and Winston’s beautiful set of bridal portraits that were taken back home in Shanghai by Chris Spira. This week, we bring you proof that the photographer makes all the difference, and that weddings in Malaysia can be really beautiful too. Enjoy!
Effie: “We wanted a tropical wedding that was not too far away for most of our friends, and somewhere that was not too commercial. Penang appealed to us because it’s a beach resort town that was just the right scale, and with enough texture to fill an extended weekend; you have the beach, the tropical forest and the heritage town, all strung together via a coastal road.
“Rasa Sayang Resort is an old family vacation spot that Winston’s family grew up with. We both loved the majestic rain trees that formed this beautiful outdoor canopy right in front of the ocean. We had an ‘a-ha’ moment when we saw it. Ferringhi Garden, where we had the dinner reception, is simply a beautifully crafted garden by the restaurant owner, Fabian. It had just the right level of intimacy, and of course, the food and service is world class.
“I designed the gown and the veil with the help of a local tailor in Shanghai – heavyweight ivory silk with a low, open back and buttoned all the way down to the train end of the gown. I wanted something simple yet elegant and comfortable because of the weather in Penang. It’s extremely hot!
“We adore the cakes at China House. It was very difficult to pick one. Luckily, Jojie the chief pastry chef worked with us to convert some of our favourites into mini cupcakes, and that worked out great because everyone got to sample at least a few flavours.
“I found Chris literally through her work – images from separate posts that led us to her website. Right from the beginning there was a level of trust and comfort that helped immensely. It was an extraordinary joy (and relief), especially on the big day, to not have to worry about how the images will turn out.
“This didn’t show in the photographs, but all those chairs in the spiral setting for the outdoor ceremony were actually wet. That everyone would fly out to a tiny island on a Monday afternoon and sit on wet chairs was just incredible. We want to say a big thank you and love you to all our friends and family who made it that day.”
Tip from the bride: “Do not stress the world out.”
EFFIE & WINSTON {Malaysia}
Photography by Chris Spira Photography / Ceremony Venue Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa, Penang / Reception Venue Ferringhi Gardens / After Party Venue Bora Bora / Bridal Gown Designed by bride, tailor-made in Shanghai / Bride’s Shoes by Dolce & Gabbana / Groom’s Attire by Liverano & Liverano (Day) and Jil Sanders (Night) / Wedding Bands by Van Cleef & Arpels / Groomsmen’s Attire by The Armoury, Hong Kong / Bridal Car Rental by Ah Poh / Wedding Cake by China House / Art and Stationery by Effie Yang Design