Serene, charming and even flamboyant – the island of Gozo can be described in many ways, especially when it comes to destination weddings. The small island, distinct from mainland Malta, has its own unique, magnetic pull, and it has been steadily becoming a hidden gem for couples dreaming of a destination wedding. VisitGozo met up with Mr Brian Sultana, a passionate wedding organiser who has been behind many couples who tied the knot on this idyllic island.
Serene, charming and even flamboyant – the island of Gozo can be described in many ways, especially when it comes to destination weddings. The small island, distinct from mainland Malta, has its own unique, magnetic pull, and it has been steadily becoming a hidden gem for couples dreaming of a destination wedding. VisitGozo met up with Mr Brian Sultana, a passionate wedding organiser who has been behind many couples who tied the knot on this idyllic island.
Brian, whose primary career is that of an educator at a higher secondary level, does not consider himself a full-time wedding planner. One can say that his story about wedding celebrations is one of serendipity, through a happy accident when one of his friends asked him to help her organise her wedding, quickly followed by another friend who pulled him deeper into the scene. With his skill in event planning and natural love for meeting and being around people, Brian found himself at home. Brian admits that it was never his intention to establish a business. Still, he found himself coaxed by his friends into creating a simple Facebook page, and inadvertently, this opened the door to a new chapter – destination weddings. As inquiries started pouring in from brides and grooms across the world, looking for a romantic and magical location to act as a backdrop for their, ‘I do’, Brian was overjoyed to show off the island he calls home and help couples fulfil their wedding dreams. He smiled as he explained that he had recently been in touch with a couple who were seeking to get married at ‘another’ Mediterranean destination, and Brian set out to sway them with Gozo’s unique charm.
Brian explains that each couple comes with its own story. Many couples would have had a prior connection to the island – cherished memories from childhood holidays, diving trips or a previous visit that was etched in their memories. However, some couples reach out spontaneously without having ever set foot on the island before planning their big day.
Gozo, with its stunning coastlines, beaches, picturesque countryside and wayside chapels, is an idyllic backdrop for wedding celebrations. Over the last 15 years, a growth trend has emerged for destination weddings, and Brian has coordinated with couples from diverse locations, including Ireland, Poland, Germany, London, and Australia. He explains that while Malta might be more sought after because it is more widely known, Brian is only based in Gozo, and his personal touch and genuine enthusiasm for the island often tip the scale in Gozo’s favour.
When asked what makes Gozo a special wedding destination, Brian explains that Gozo’s appeal lies in its breathtaking vistas and also the warmth of the people. Island life, with its closeness to the sea and stunning coastal backdrops, has an impressive appeal. Similarly, the friendliness and professional service that people provide make a long-lasting impression. Many ceremonies are held by the sea, followed by luncheons, parties, and celebrations in traditional wedding halls and spacious farmhouses. Most destination weddings are intimate, with a guest list that ranges from 80 to as few as 6. In Brian’s words – ‘Ultimately, destination weddings are about celebrating a significant milestone with those with whom you’re closest’. He explains that the smallest wedding party he handled catered for just four people: the couple and their witnesses.
Planning a day to remember starts with a simple message from the couple, and through the process, Brian gets to know the couple and walks them through venue options, permit requirements and logistics. Some venues, such as Dwejra, require a special permit from the respective local council and/or the Environmental and Resource Authority. Weddings can be laid-back, elegant, vibrant or elaborate. Following the mood, Brian will advise on a mix that suits the theme and budget, and that is also practical. Couples and guests frequently express how welcome they feel once on the island, and Brian highlights that the professional, friendly, and accommodating local suppliers are the hallmarks behind the success of such event organising.
As he explains the beauty of casual elegance typical of small destination weddings, Brian recalls the excitement of an elaborate wedding day, where, after saying ‘I do’ at the waters’ edge, the couple requested a cocktail hour, followed by a sit-down lunch, ending the afternoon with a Gozo train ride. After a quick outfit change, the guests were whisked off to a farmhouse for a technicolour after-party evening celebration. Another unforgettable wedding involved a 23-hour marathon shift straight – from 8 am to 5 am the next day. A whole team worked tirelessly to transform a winery venue into a luxurious lounge where magicians and fire dancers mesmerised the guests beneath the starry night sky.
Vintage buses and boat parties also add a memorable twist to the festivities. As a professional wedding organiser, Brian is always a step away, and he assists with everything from hair and makeup to decorations and photographers. He also advises about accommodation close to the venue to simplify transport and timing. When it comes to seasons, experience indicates that the best months for outdoor weddings in Gozo are April, May, June, September, October, and November, and if possible, avoiding intensely hot summer months.
When it comes to the biggest challenge in destination weddings, Brian quickly points out that when the couple is planning everything from afar, he bridges the gap by sending photos, videos and regular updates to help them visualise their day. Flexibility and planning are key, especially when civil weddings require the ceremony to take place at the location where the marriage banns were issued, regardless of the weather on the day. While typical local weddings are usually planned long in advance, destination weddings are a bigger dash and are sometimes planned and organised in as little as three months. With limited time, the challenge is to find a venue within the budget that matches the wedding’s theme.
Adding a signature local touch to a destination wedding is appreciated by both couples and guests. Brian often suggests not only Gozitan dishes on the menu but also local tokens or favours, such as sea salt, olive oil or honey. For summer weddings, pretty traditional lace fans printed with Gozo scenery are not only a thoughtful but a practical touch.
When asked for tips for couples, Brian is readily prepared with a list:
Brian believes that Gozo and weddings are a match made in heaven, and there is no doubt that the island has considerable potential in this niche. Despite being a tour de force behind many weddings, for him, this was never planned to be a business but a heartfelt pursuit, which leaves him with the sweet satisfaction of witnessing happy brides, grooms, families, and friends overjoyed at a celebration that exceeds their imagination. Many reach out afterwards, sharing beautiful memories and expressing gratitude. And when guests return, sometimes to plan their own weddings, it speaks volumes about the magic of Gozo as a wedding destination.
VisitGozo would like to thank Mr Brian Sultana for this interview and for sharing the photos.
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