Ricky and Braxton's Culturally Rich Wedding at Palazzo Parisio & Villa Bologna

When couples choose Malta for their destination wedding, they’re drawn by the island’s extraordinary blend of Mediterranean beauty, centuries-old architecture, and vibrant culture. That was certainly true for Ricky and Braxton, and their wedding at the Palazzo Parisio and Villa Bologna, two of Malta's most enchanting venues,

A multi-day celebration filled with color, culture, and unforgettable moments, the festivities began with the couple's legal ceremony at the magnificent Palazzo Parisio. Documented by leading Malta wedding photographer Franklin Balzan, their legal ceremony and entire weekend was captured beautifully in a visually rich story of close connection, honored traditions, and elegant fashion.

Day One: Blessing at Palazzo Parisio

The wedding celebrations began with a beautiful blessing and legal wedding ceremony. Guests arrived at the palace and were immersed in the grandeur of its interiors. Ornate architectural details, chandeliers, and gilded décor created a setting that felt both regal and romantic.

The ceremony itself was deeply meaningful, surrounded by the elegance of the beautifully renovated palace and the presence of close friends and family.

The couple’s design palette for the day was inspired by Malta itself, with décor in red and white, the colors of the Maltese flag. These bold tones appeared throughout the celebration and gave the event a bright and cohesive look.

Once the couple was officially married the energy exploded and guests were treated to unique cultural entertainment including a performance from traditional Maltese dancers, who performed lively folk dances that celebrated the island’s heritage.

Another playful and memorable element of the day was the presence of human statues, a creative addition that brought a theatrical feel to the celebration and even became part of the couple’s portrait session later that afternoon.

From the very first night, the party was on with exquisite food and cocktails, dancing and even fireworks! 

Day Two & Three: A Vibrant Indian Wedding Celebration

The second day guests participated in the sacred and joyous Mehdhi, Haldi, and Sangeet ceremonies. Rested and ready, on the 3rd day they found their seats for the ceremony in the stunning gardens of the 17th century Villa Bologna, where Ricky and Braxton honored Indian wedding traditions with vibrant color and loving energy.

While the Palazzo Parisio felt regal and classic, the celebration at Villa Bologna was bursting with gorgeous Indian designs elements and the feeling of family and friends in community.

Beginning with an upbeat Baraat, the groom arrived with fanfare to the ceremony gardens transformed with vibrant exotic flowers in rich shades of red, orange, pink, and yellow. The floral arrangements lined the ceremony aisle and surrounded the mandap, creating a striking contrast against the venue's warm limestone architecture and lush greenery.

The result was a ceremony space that felt welcoming, celebratory, and visually unforgettable.

A Celebration Filled with Positive Energy and Entertainment

Entertainment played a major role in all wedding festivities, adding excitement and spectacle throughout the day. Guests were delighted by stilt walkers, samba dancers, and talented performers who helped turn the celebration into an immersive experience. At key moments, a CO₂ cannon blasted bursts of excitement into the crowd, bringing a festival-like energy to the party and keeping guests on their feet.

Of course, the culinary experience was equally memorable. With a feast of delicious Indian cuisine, another layer of cultural richness was added to the celebration.

Creative Portraits Across Two Historic Venues

One of the highlights of the wedding weekend was the time dedicated to portraits at both Palazzo Parisio and Villa Bologna with Malta wedding photographer Franklin Balzan.

Braxton had been especially excited about this part of the celebration, and the couple intentionally built time into the schedule so they could explore the grounds of the venues and to help create unique images.

At Villa Bologna in particular, the timing proved perfect. The couple enjoyed what Frank described as “magic light,” creating photographs that feel cinematic and timeless.

With a relaxed schedule and the couple fully embracing the experience, the portrait sessions were fun and co-creative. And the results were as stunning as the celebration itself.

Dining, Dancing, and a Night to Remember

As evening fell over the gardens of Villa Bologna, the wedding transformed into a magical nighttime celebration. Elegant lighting illuminated the historic surroundings while guests gathered for dinner, speeches, and music beneath the open sky. Laughter and heartfelt moments filled the evening whilst friends and family shared stories and celebrated the couple together.

As the night continued, the dance floor came alive with music and energy, turning the reception into a joyful party that brought the weekend to a truly sensational close.

We are grateful to Ricky, Braxton, and Franklin Balzan for sharing this wonderful wedding with us, and to all the people who made this celebration so visually stunning and fashionable. 

Ricky and Braxton's Malta Wedding Vendors

Photography: Franklin Balzan - @frankbalzan

Venue Day 1: Palazzo Parisio - @palazzoparisio

Venue Day 2 and 3: Villa Bologna - @villabologna

Cinematography: Wedding Motion Malta  - @weddingmotion.mt

Planner and Visual Design: Ricky Handa Events - @rickyhandaevents

On the Day Coordinator: Wed Our Way Malta - @wedourway_malta

Florals: The Malta Florist - @themaltaflorist

Decorator: Save the Date Malta - @savethedatemalta

Dress: Browns Fashion - @brownsfashion

Accessories: ClaiRamor Collection - @clairamor.collection

Ceremony Music: Jacob Portelli - @harpistjacobportelli

Reception Music and Entertainment: Afterglow Malta - @afterglowmalta

Reception Music and Entertainment: Rhythmix Live - @rhythmix.live

Transport: Paramount Coaches Malta - @paramountcoachesmalta

Fireworks: BG Malta Fireworks Display - @bgmaltafirworksdisplay