“Together we’re creating moments of happiness and cherished memories for the new couple and their families” said Founder and CEO of LOVI Ceylon, Asanka de Mel, as he introduced LOVI Ceylon’s Groom collection. Each groom’s look was paired with extraordinary creations from Sri Lanka’s top bridal designers, jewellers, florists, hair and make-up artiste and captured by story-telling photographers.
The presentation graciously hosted at the Taj Samudra and Shangri-La hotels saw 30 leading designers working hand in hand to infuse fresh ideas, celebrate cultural diversity and show-off Sri Lankan couture—the island’s handcraft heritage. The stunning bridal costumes were painstakingly made by renowned designers Messrs. Dhananjaya Bandara, Rishard Raheem, and Michael Wijesuriya as well as Ms. Indi Yapa Abeywardena, Sonali Dharmawardena, Darshi Keerthisena, Ramona Oshini, Sandani Perera, and Jaish Parathalingam.
The newcomer, Ms. Anusha David also presented her couture creations. “We want our groom and all of the men at the wedding including the groomsmen, dads, young boys and friends, to be themselves--to feel rooted in culture, well dressed and at ease on the wedding day,” said Asanka.
The designs progressed from sketch to stitching, handcrafted fine jewellery made of precious metals encrusted with diamonds, sapphires and rubies.
Breathing life into these wonderful creations with superb hair and make-up was anchor of the shoot, Ms. Nadiya Fernando and her collaborator Omesh, while Ramani Fernando, Shane Perera, Viran Peter, also worked magic on the models.
The father - son duo Dinuka and Dineth Fonseka took on the herculean task of capturing all the creations as the anchor photography partner.
De Mel expressed his thanks to the wonderful models and the models who brought the visions and fancies of the designers to life, as well as poet and author Ashok Ferrey for being the MC.
“We have world class craftsmanship here, it’s fun to work with so many experts, who just happen to be friends, to present a beautiful collection that could nudge the course of Sri Lankan clothing identity”, said Asanka when asked about the work that went into this.