It's that time of the year again; wedding season. That's right, suddenly, everyone around you is getting married, and all that's left to do is ask everyone what they'll be wearing and what time they'll be showing up to the reception. But aside from the stress that may come with a wedding invitation, weddings are a time of joy and love, especially Maltese ones. If this is your first time attending a Maltese wedding and don't know what to expect, keep reading for some of our tips!

The occasional karozzin

When wedding cars seem a tad too mainstream, a karrozzin is the way to go! The bride may show up to the Church in a typical Maltese carriage, like something out of your favourite childhood fairytale. Whilst not the most efficient mode of transport for the big day, this is indeed a picturesque alternative, especially in the Medieval Silent City of Mdina.

Big and fancy churches

Choosing the perfect Church for a wedding ceremony in Malta is no easy feat. To start with, it is virtually impossible to travel a few miles in Malta, without stumbling upon at least three chapels. What's worse is that they are all equally as elaborate and glamorous. Whether it's an ornate cathedral or a large dome the wedding is being held in, expect; gold, flowers and frescoes featuring every religious figure conceivable.

Flower girls and bridesmaids in plentiful

Maltese are social beings, so choosing a manageable amount of flower girls and bridesmaids without offending anyone in the process is quite the challenge. For this reason, the bride may have a fleet of children marching and running down the aisle in front of her, throwing confetti, on her special day. This is the only way the bride can avoid any family feuds and hard feelings. Limiting the bridesmaid selection is no less complicated for the very same reason.

Emotional extended families

As previously stated, Maltese families are large and emotionally invested. Waterproof makeup is a given for the women involved, and male relatives also tend to have a handkerchief close-by. The more eager family members may find it necessary to whip out an oversized tablet to capture the moment, regardless of whether or not they are stepping on the priest's stole, because they haven't mastered the zoom function yet.

Dancing. Lots of it

Generally, sit down dinners just don't suffice for the Maltese. We're all about that bass, that beat and that… chacha? Indeed, the groom's tipsy great aunt has started to holler song requests and pulling up a scandalised foreigner to dance. Anything should be expected. If the dancing is likely to be particularly intense, foldable pumps may be available for the ladies to kick off their heels and get down on the dance floor.

A speech from the best man

The Maltese language generally comes in handy here. The best man may take the guests back to the groom's past, revisit all of his worse decisions and show the guests how the bride whipped him into shape. The speech comes complete with childhood banter and innuendos in our native tongue. Expect whistling, chanting and cheering from the rest of the "lads". We Maltese are very...supportive.

Heat

Guests are expected to have an understanding of the difference between morning and evening wedding attire. If sequins is worn in the morning, or a hat is employed in the afternoon, expect gossiping and glares, from the older crowd especially. However, one should be warned about accounting for the Maltese weather. Be mindful of colours for summer dresses – anything that masks a sweat patch is a wise decision.

Souvenirs

These may range from perlini to customised homemade soap bars in the shape of the bride's profile. These are mementos that are given to guests as a reminder of the couple's special day, and as a 'thank you' for attending the celebration of their marriage. Because at the end of the day, your presence is the biggest gift you could give the newlyweds.

Guestbooks and photo booths

Grab hold of some props – a cardboard moustache or a feather boa, and head inside the photobooth! Photo booths are a growing trend at Maltese weddings and they make for good souvenirs for the guests! You may also be invited to leave a message in the guestbook for the loving couple.

Fireworks

The Maltese will find any excuse to set off some fireworks. If the couple is involved in the village festas, you are guaranteed they have made arrangements with the locals in-charge to end their big day with a BANG -literally-.

For more Maltese style of celebration check out aticles in the Culture & Lifestyle sections.