Photo credit: www.cntraveler.com
“Many of our discussions were held over Zoom, so trips to Bermuda were likely going to happen no matter what,” shares Alisha, noting how frequently the couple visits the island. On one memorable occasion, they were joined by their best man and his wife for a tasting of their wedding menu, while during another visit, the bride-to-be tested her hair and makeup.
The dinner was catered by The Loren, featuring delicacies including yellowfin tuna tartare and rockfish, a local favorite.
Craft unforgettable visuals
Reflecting on their special day, the couple highlights two moments that truly celebrated their stunning location. Their ceremony was held on “the disc,” a circular area at the hotel that extends into the sea and is typically used for fitness classes and conferences. “Dirk and I conceived the idea of a pie formation, with Sergio and me at the center surrounded by our guests; this had never been done on the disc before,” Alisha explains. This setup not only resulted in breathtaking aerial photographs, but it also allowed guests to take in the incredible ocean views and the renowned pink sands.
As the ceremony concluded—conducted by Sergio’s uncle and mostly Christian in tradition, with an Arabic reading by one of Alisha’s friends—the newlyweds treated their guests to a Gombey procession. This vibrant, distinctly Bermudian performance art and folk tradition was described in their wedding programs as having evolved from Bermuda’s slave history, providing a form of artistic expression in the face of adversity, according to the nonprofit Sankofa Bermuda.
“When Sergio and I shared our first kiss, the drums began, and the crowd was surprised, saying, ‘What is that?!’ There was an air of mystery,” Alisha recalled. “Everyone was so captivated, particularly our guests from the States and Canada who had never witnessed anything like it.” They began to dance, leading the procession of performers and their guests down the hill to the reception area on the lawn in front of the Residence.
Honor the island with special vendors
The Gombey wasn’t the only authentic Bermudian element at the wedding. The couple also featured a cigar roller from the Bermuda Cigar Company, reflecting the island’s rich history as a trading hub for Cuban cigars. “It was incredibly popular, and everyone adored him—he was such a kind, charming man,” Alisha noted.
Source
www.cntraveler.com