Free open spaces in Bangkok for a pre-wedding photo shoot. 

Athough indoor studios have numerous benefits for pre-wedding photo shoot sessions, such as full light and climate control, shooting outdoors has become a growing trend for the last few years. The benefits are numerous: from the natural joy of being outside, to endless options for alternate shots and backdrops, increasing both visual interest and versatility. For many, it’s a unique and romantic way to show yourselves off, with couples even going to London, Paris, or other more exotic locations to get that perfect shot. However, for the budget conscious, fear not! Bangkok is also home to some beautiful parks and open spaces that could provide the perfect stunning backdrop – and better yet, for free.

Before you explore any of these magical sites, however, things to keep in mind include getting your shots during the magic hours of sunrise and sunset, comfortable shoes as you walk between locations, and staying hydrated.

1. China Town (Yaowarat Road) and Old-Town Riverside

   You may think that this and the adjoining ‘Little India’ are a strange place to organise a pre-wedding photoshoot, but it can be one of the most unique and exquisite backdrops in the city. Always a busy and charming place with its vibrant décor and colour, narrow and busy side streets, food stalls, and tuk-tuks galore, it’s a street full of stories waiting to be discovered – and you can easily create your own, any time of the day or night. Depending on the time of day, the shots can look completely different, and the area is a maze with many surprises, including the street art-filled hub, Talaad Noi. You can even take unique pictures among old car parts if you visit the latter, for a less ostentatious and more industrial vibe; or in the middle of Yaowarat Road itself, for a daring, long-exposure shot. If you’re a couple fascinated by people, history and cultural diversity, this is the place for you.|

2. Siam Square
   If you want a more urban- jungle vibe, this is the perfect spot for you. While in China Town you can capture the beauty of old Bangkok, Siam Square is the hub of all things cool. Lately revamped with a whole new look, this hotspot for teens and young adults can turn out to also be a hotspot for your photo shoot. Even though this area lacks greenery, it makes up for it with trendy cafés, boutiques and markets. The skywalk, the zone that connects to all the main department stores in the area such as Siam Paragon and CentralwOrld, could be one of the most interesting spots you’ll find in the city. With its structures for shade that are reminiscent of lily pads, this entire district is covered in art by renowned Thai street artists, and will be sure to make for some distinctive shots if you can edit out the crowds.
   
   
3. Rama IX Park 
   
   If you want to capture the skyline but still add variety to your photos, then the largest park in the city would be one of the best choices for you. This slice of paradise behind Seacon Square features beautiful pavilions, a large lake, and extensive flower gardens. Here, there are gardens with exotic flowers inspired by some of the greatest gardens in the world, such as the French garden replete with a colonnade and sculptures, and the Italian garden with its beautiful fountains. There’s also a Chinese- and American-inspired garden as well (THB 10 entrance fee).
   
   
   
   
   

4. Bang Krachao
   
   Thanks to the government’s orders to keep this place commercially undeveloped to preserve its lush beauty, Bang Krachao is a portal to a whole new world away from the chaos of the city. Also known as the ‘Green Lung of Bangkok,’ you can take raw and authentic photos on this river island without the city’s skyscrapers and shopping malls, especially
   if you want to incorporate the beauty of nature. Options include any of its numerous walking or cycling trails (look out for cyclists if you choose the latter); along its canals; at the eco-friendly Bangkok Tree House hotel (though you may have to ask the hotel for permission); the Sri Nakhon Khuean Khan Park and Botanical Garden; and its many picturesque cafés.
   
   

5. Lumphini Park 
   
   
   Another oasis that also functions as the city’s green lungs is Lumphini Park, the oldest public park in the city and widely considered by some to be one of the world’s best parks. With carefully- curated lawns, an artificial lake, and local flora, you will undoubtedly get beautiful shots here, with the best views of the surrounding skyline through the trees and over the lake. There are numerous spots for you to choose from, such as the famed clock tower, or the Lanna Pavilion.
   
   
   
   
   

6. Chocolate Ville
   
   
   A whimsical setting that still looks modern, you’ll forget that you’re in Thailand when you step into Chocolate Ville. A charming place with its European village theme, can take photos with the chapel, barn, clock tower, railway station or my personal favourite, the windmill and the lighthouse. The list is endless and you’ll definitely have a blast with your partner! Every corner is Instagram-worthy and will transport you – and your pictures – to a different time in another country.
   
   
   
7. Rama VIII Bridge 
   
   This suspension bridge crosses the Chao Phraya river, with Arun Amarin on one side. There is space for pedestrians and cyclists on both sides of the bridge so you won’t have to worry about traffic while you take that perfect shot. The asymmetrical structure of the bridge makes it one of the most recognisable in the country, and it’s also the world’s largest asymmetrical-styled cable bridge. From the height of this bridge, you’ll get to capture the cityscape and the stunning River of Kings, and it’s one of the best spots to capture the sunset as well. Right next to the bridge is also the Rama VIII Park, another beautiful spot by the river bank where you can get some shots while you’re in the area.

A quick and easy guide to buy wedding jewellry, with insight from Khanna Jewellers.  

A woman’s wedding jewellery feels sacred, with some families starting years before she’s even old enough to find a partner, while grandmothers and close aunties might even take a peek in their own treasure boxes, for an ornament to
pass on to you on your special day. As a blushing bride-to-be, you may receive jewellery from family members, along with jewellery from your partner’s family, but you will also have to buy a couple of pieces and your own wedding set. Since jewellery is often an investment and a statement of your own personal style, buying your wedding jewellery is a significant step on your (very long) wedding to-do list.
To help you get started, Masala has put together a helpful guide, along with advice from highly-acclaimed Khanna Jewellers.

First things first, what type of jewellery is available?
Understanding the different types of work, their aesthetic, and value, will play important factors in your decision making process.

• Jadau Jewellery

  Jadau refers to a jewellery-making technique that traces back to the Mughal empire, however, it has been perfected by the Rajasthani and Gujarati craftsmen. The gold is framed for uncut diamonds, pearls, or precious stones, they are then embedded into the gold, without the use of any bonding element. This process is used for polki, kundan, and meenakari jewellery. It is made entirely by hand, therefore a big set can take months to complete.

  Kundan jewellery uses this process, but kundan specifically refers to the purest form of gold. The gold used to encase the stones and diamonds is 24k gold. While polki jewellery refers to uncut diamonds, this can be set in a kundan frame, and the technique used to make the set is called jadau. A set like this would be called a kundan polki set. If you are looking for a traditional set, one that will make you feel like royalty on your wedding day, look out for these sets.

  Look out for:
  – The purity of gold that is used: it should be 22k gold or higher
  – If the embedded stones are precious or semi-precious
  – Kundan jewellery uses 24k gold, so ask your jeweller for a certificate
  
  
  
  

• Meenakari
  When you see colourful and intricate sets of traditional jewellery, in pretty pastels or royal hues, with artistic patterns, it is most likely the use of meenakari, where gold or silver has been coloured with enamel. This can be used in kundan and polka sets too.
  
  
  
• Diamonds and Gemstones 
  One of the most sought after and stunning looks is one that uses diamond and gemstone sets. From an array of just diamonds or a mix of diamonds and stones, a diamond set will look just as sparkly many years down the line. It is a popular choice amongst brides for their reception or sangeet. Don’t be afraid to add a hint of colour with a variety of precious stones like emeralds, rubies, tanzanite, and more.
  

Romantic retreats across the land of smiles, for every kind of couple!

Congratulations! You’re officially married, and made it to the other side of the wedding! Your honeymoon is the first gift of your relationship, and hence, where you spend it is a significant decision. Have a look at our curated list of resorts, with various options for an ultimate getaway.

Loy Pela Voyages, Bangkok

Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort, Golden Triangle

Located in the Golden Triangle, near the borders of Myanmar and Laos, Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort is a bucket list resort, making it an ideal choice for your honeymoon. Elephants are a big part of Thailand’s history and culture, and at the camp, you can learn about the resort’s conservation programme, while getting involved in a variety of activities including bathing, feeding, and trekking. The camp itself is a bubble of luxury, where you can also avail of their spa treatments and take in the natural surroundings.

 

InterContinental Khao Yai Resort, Khao Yai

In the middle of the mountainous region of Khao Yai, just a stone’s throw away from Khao Yai National park, is a resort unlike any other. InterContinental Khao Yai Resort, invites you on their repurposed train carriages to explore Thailand’s golden age of train travel. Set in a luscious tropical rainforest, you can step away from the bustling world, and spend your time being transported to your own little post-marital bubble, all while pampering yourself spoilt with the resort’s dining and spa options.

 

OFF THE BEATEN PATH 

Celebrate your nuptials at one of these romantic resorts that are completely tucked away from the world. As you enter a new chapter in your relationship, these resorts will allow the both of you to build a strong foundation.

Six SensesYao Noi, Koh Yao Noi

The Naka Island, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Phuket, Naka Yai Island

Anantara Koh Yao Yai Resort & Villas, Koh Yao Yai

Como Point Yamu, Phuket

Chiva-Som, Hua Hin 

The Sukhothai Bangkok, Bangkok

Centara Reserve Samui, Koh Samui 

Anew age for the leading Thai hospitality brand, Centara Reserve Samui serves top-tier luxury on a silver platter, served to you by your very own Reserve host. The resort sits on the quieter end of Chaweng beach, where you can avail of the calm serenity or the bustling nightlife, whichever you wish. The property unveiled their new look in 2022, with a modern and incredibly Instagrammable aesthetic. Featuring 184 rooms, six restaurant and bars, and a world-class spa, it has all the ingredients you need to make it a honeymoon to remember. The Reserve Spa Cenvaree is an immersive relaxation journey to rejuvenate your soul. They use aromatic oils and therapeutic herbs that are locally harvested from the grounds.

Soneva Kiri, Koh Kood

Keemala, Phuket

The Sarojin, Khao Lak 

Surely, newlyweds have meticulously gone through every detail of their wedding festivities leaving no stone unturned. Not a single element is out of place, crucial to presenting the most memorable and ideal wedding experience. And not a single drop goes to waste, which means there is careful consideration of the types of beverages that will be mixed by their bartenders or servers, swigged by their guests, and enjoyed by all.

We asked a few experts in the world of alcoholic beverages about their own experiences and observations of how South Asian couples and families are incorporating spirits, signature cocktails, and other wonderful concoctions into their wedding festivities. But before we dive into a more personal take from our local experts, the kind folks at Diageo Moët Hennessy have given us a general overview of all the beverage trends capturing the market’s attention.

What is trending at the moment and which drinks are in demand?
Globally, rum is making a comeback, but our customers still love gin and continue to look for premium tequila. Special or signature cocktails are always in demand for most weddings and we always aim to deliver world-class, customised cocktails. From our own experience, personalised cocktails with advanced techniques have consistently made it to the top of the list.

What do couples and their families traditionally request for weddings?
A simple mix of whisky or personalised cocktails is the usual affair, as they become the perfect combination of delicious and refreshing drinks suitable for weddings.

Any tips for beginners hoping to add a list of wonderful drinks for their festivities?
For future plans, mocktails and non-alcoholic wine and beer will be great choices to experiment with for weddings. In turn, it would give us the opportunity to utilise our products, such as Seedlip or Tanqueray, and incorporate them into new blends and drink ideas. And if you are a health-conscious consumer, aim for low alcohol by volume and gluten-free drinks, which can serve as a better alternative.

POURED BY THE PROFESSIONALS

What seems to be the alcoholic beverage of choice at weddings?

Vikram Arunagiri, Managing Director, Gulp Bangkok:
There has been a huge shift towards tequila and a variety of gin. The natural assumption for Indian weddings is that there is a high consumption of whisky. However, we have come to witness, especially at blockbuster-scale weddings, the tequila and gin duo has become the preferred companion to these celebrations. Moreover, the variety of gins in the market is extremely popular with the modern-day crowd because of the price point. It also goes to show that people are educated on the types of drinks they consume and have a sophisticated palette. They know their cocktails and desire strong, bold flavours, and avoid repeat drinks. They need variety.

Nakul Roy, Commercial Director, Bacardi Thailand:
In Thailand, premium and luxury tequila and agave spirits seem to be the “flavour of the month” among discerning consumers. We are confident we can thrive in this space with our powerful brand Patron and we offer consumers a best-in-class tequila. In key tourist areas, we see a huge uplift in premium white rum, Bacardi consumption, especially in simple mixed drinks such as a cuba libre or popular cocktails such as mojitos and daiquiris. For nightlife, premium events, and festivals, Grey Goose Vodka seems to be the drink of choice, either with bottle service or simple mixed cocktails. We are also seeing keen interest in our Dewars whisky range on these occasions, especially the 15-year-old.

Kieran James, GM International Business, Third Eye Distillery:
Beverage trends ebb and flow with the ever-changing times. Observing how these trends vary across neighbouring countries is intriguing, as I’ve experienced during my travels around Southeast Asia in recent months. Amidst the diversity, a few noteworthy trends have emerged. When you step into a top-notch cocktail bar today, you’re likely to encounter a captivating drink featuring a clarified milk punch, a mesmerising creation born out of the process of redistilling, or perhaps an irresistible elixir crafted through fermentation techniques. Moreover, sustainability has become a prevalent theme, with a focus on minimalistic yet extraordinary libations that harmoniously blend technique and flavour. And it’s impossible not to mention the ever-simple yet enduring highball cocktail.

What seems to be the alcoholic beverage of choice at weddings?

Vikram Arunagiri, Managing Director, Gulp Bangkok:

Wedding parties now require a full bar service with vodka, a selection of gins, blended whiskey like Chivas, single malts, white rum for common mojito requests, and tequila like Jose Cuervo. The more the merrier because that gives us the opportunity to create more and discover new drinks.

Kieran James, GM International Business, Third Eye Distillery:
While it may not be the most common request, many are now requesting bespoke cocktail menus. With meticulous attention to detail, our team of experts can tailor menus to align precisely with their preferences. To ensure absolute perfection, we’ve organised workshop sessions before the grand event, where the couples could sample each recipe and provide feedback. This collaborative approach allows us to fine-tune the drinks and create an impeccable beverage experience. We relish working with wedding couples who share our passion for exceptional beverages and appreciate the significance of every detail of their special day. Amidst the myriad elements that go into wedding planning, the beverage offering often remains overlooked in terms of its potential to elevate the occasion and create a truly memorable experience. This is slowly changing.

Nakul Roy, Commercial Director, Bacardi Thailand:
Most wedding couples and their families usually go with trusted, well-known spirits that are meticulously crafted, with a focus mainly on the liquid. Decision-making factors seem to be based on mouthfeel, smoothness, drinkability, and/or mixability. We get wedding orders on Grey Goose Vodka and Bombay Sapphire to be their most desired brands and also a lot of interest in our Martini Prosecco and sparkling wines. It goes without saying Bacardi, Patron, and our whisky portfolio with Dewars and Aberfeldy single malts do very well.

What type of drinks are customers leaning toward as of late?

Vikram Arunagiri, Managing Director, Gulp Bangkok:
What we have noticed recently are that specific labels of gin, such as Roku and Hendricks, remain a crowd favourite; The Botanist Islay Dry Gin is another that is gradually making the rounds. It’s becoming more apparent that clients are searching for a boutique experience, searching for bottles from Lady Triêu, a contemporary gin from Vietnam, and Ki No Bi Kyoto Dry Gin from Japan. Aside from the gins and the selection of tequila from Don Julio, 1800, and Cenote, an ultra-premium 100% Agave Azul Tequilana Weber tequila, are leading the charge in that category.

Kieran James, GM International Business, Third Eye Distillery:
The landscape of wedding beverages is experiencing a fascinating shift, with an increasing desire for bespoke offerings that infuse weddings with an air of uniqueness. Gone are the days when couples settle for the same old drinks that have been tirelessly replicated at numerous celebrations. Today’s younger wedding couples yearn for libations that reflect their individual style, veering away from mainstream offerings. This presents an exciting opportunity for experimentation and discovering new, distinct brands that captivate their senses and contribute to a truly personalised celebration.

There must have been, or continue to be, unique themes or types of drinks wedding parties have requested. 

 

Vikram Arunagiri, Managing Director, Gulp Bangkok:
It shouldn’t be surprising that people nowadays want to carry out their celebrations in a responsible and sustainable manner. Sustainability is now in every industry. We have couples who require zero waste and no plastic. This forced us to be more creative with the drinks we present. For example, using every bit of the fruit for a cocktail has brought about new challenges, and it’s a unique addition to the drinks menu.

 

We have also been requested to recreate drinks from famous bars, which can be a risky proposition because we are essentially copying others. Clearly, we want to avoid that as much as possible. One massive challenge, however, is when a couple approached us to provide a winter-themed bar set, where they only had all ice bars. You can imagine how difficult it was to manage a slippery surface and keep it at a particular temperature throughout the festivities.

Kieran James, GM International Business, Third Eye Distillery:
Every wedding celebration deserves a beverage programme that stands out and leaves an indelible impression. One sure-fire way to achieve this is through a bespoke cocktail menu. As an example, we once had the pleasure of working with a wedding party where the couple desired ‘his’ and ‘her’ signature cocktails. Collaborating closely with our talented mixologists, the couple participated in the creation process, resulting in a delightful libation that became a symbol of their union throughout the festivities. We even took the time to teach them the recipe, allowing them to revisit and commemorate their special day whenever they desire, through the magic of their bespoke cocktail.

Nakul Roy, Commercial Director, Bacardi Thailand:
Modern twists on classic cocktails are still very much in vogue at wedding parties, from creative twists on negronis and old- fashioneds, to more accessible cocktails such as using exotic fruits and refreshing herbs and ingredients. Personalisation and ‘building your own’ drink continues to be a popular choice, such as choosing your own garnish for gin & tonics, or bespoke espresso martinis. 

What advise would you give to soon-to-be newlyweds hoping to have the best combination of beverages for Indian wedding festivities?

 

Vikram Arunagiri, Managing Director, Gulp Bangkok:
They have to allocate the budget wisely. The drinks are as important as the food for wedding events. Too many couples tend to overlook this detail, which leads to an unfavourable outcome when the alcohol bill arrives. You want to make sure you get the best bang for your buck. To freshen things up, boutique products can also be incorporated into the menu. I highly suggested that you invest a little more into the beverage selection so you are guaranteed authenticity and high quality. If you want the wedding to be more memorable than it already is, the experience can be elevated by this approach.

 

Kieran James, GM International Business, Third Eye Distillery:
The key is to embrace an open-minded spirit of exploration. Break free from the confines of the status quo and dare to discover new and exciting possibilities. To navigate this journey, seeking guidance from a knowledgeable expert can be immensely valuable. At Stranger & Sons, we pride ourselves on offering precisely such guidance, helping you curate a beverage programme that perfectly encapsulates your vision. Through private tastings tailored specifically for wedding couples, we can guide you through the entire process, providing insights on where to start and unveiling a world of flavours and possibilities that will ensure your wedding beverages are nothing short of extraordinary.

 

Nakul Roy, Commercial Director, Bacardi Thailand:

Having a vast selection is great but sometimes it’s best to be decisive to help hasten the decision-making at the bar for your guests. Keep it simple on yourselves and your planners – you will have enough vendors and suppliers so sometimes it can be more efficient to choose suppliers that have a one- stop shop for spirits with a strong portfolio offering in lead category status. We have a full portfolio and will continue to cater to these momentous occasions. Our distributor, IWS, and pretty much all key wholesalers, carry our brands. You can reach out to our office directly and our sales teams and marketing team will be more than happy to assist and guide you in the right direction throughout your selection process.