Maria & Gav — Galu Seaside, Cyprus

Cyprus wedding photography at its best

The venue

Galu Seaside sits right on the beach of Larnaca Bay. The white painted decking and gazebos are very beautiful. Chandeliers hang elegantly. The sparkling blue sea and private sandy beach lend a relaxed, easy atmosphere. It's a totally unique and stylish place, yet so relaxing at the same time. Truly refreshing — a place that makes your heart beat.

The decorations

Gorgeous white rose, orchid and peony floral decoration dotted the venue. Elegant white chairs with simple white sashes for the guests. Chandeliers and fairy lights created the setting for Maria and Gavin's "I do" moment.

The preparations

Maria prepared for her special day with her mother at a private villa. Hair and makeup came first, then her mother helped her into her wedding dress — a lace gown with a cut-out back. Her bridesmaids complemented her perfectly in their pale mint green dresses. Simple hand-tied posies of roses and peony finished off the look. Her father was very emotional when he saw her. Maria looked amazing.

Gav got ready at another villa not too far from Maria, joined by his groomsmen and two best men. There were nerves and laughter. Gav looked lovely in his pale grey suit.

The ceremony

As guests gathered and took their places, Gav waited with his best man — anxious and excited to see Maria for the first time as a bride. She walked down the aisle on her father's arm, and when she saw Gav, a huge smile erupted on her face. Rings were exchanged and promises made.

Then came their Buddhist ceremony. It was a very touching ceremony and we loved capturing the emotions. A hurricane of rose petal confetti was thrown, and the couple released two white doves.

Bridal portraits

We whisked Maria and Gav off after the group photographs and took them to the beach. They also posed by the stretch limo hired for the day. We captured some lovely shots as the afternoon light turned soft and golden — one of our favourite parts of any wedding day.

The reception

The wedding breakfast was set up on the decking. Tables were named after the gods and goddesses of Cyprus. The set-up was simple and stylish, with gold-rimmed china and crystal glasses. Centrepieces of roses, orchids and peonies with gold accents adorned each table. Their wedding cake was four-tiered with gold laurel accents. The food was really tasty and everyone seemed to enjoy it. Speeches and cake cutting followed.

While the guests finished their desserts, we took the couple off for a sunset shoot in and around the venue.

The evening

The party. Maria and Gav's wedding finally finished with dancing, Love Lights and fireworks. Cypriot dancers were there for entertainment. Lots of dancing and fun — truly an epic night.

Trash the dress — underwater shoot

A few days later, we took Maria and Gav out for some fun, just the two of them. Maria wore her wedding dress for part of the shoot at the Sea Caves and Rock Arch, which always make a dramatic backdrop. Then came the underwater shoot, and we captured some truly unique shots. Thank you both for trusting us in the water.

In conclusion

This may be one of our favourite Cyprus wedding photography venues. The ceremony was a true highlight and taught us something new. The staff at Galu went above and beyond to make us feel welcome as always.