How to describe the surreal atmosphere of this wedding? Imagine if William Shakespeare was a member of the Monty Python crew. Nothing? Ok, add to them Rowan Atkinson and the whole Blackadder ensemble? Still nothing? Well ok, now try to add that stereotypical British appreciation of alcoholic beverages, in excessive quantities? Now you’re starting to get the picture? Ok, now put all of that pressure-cooked insanity into an old Fort George in the island of Vis (Croatia).
I think that the recognizable British humor works best within a love story. Theater. The entire ceremony took place in a Shakespearean setting, developed in these wonderful “acts”. The perfect backdrop for some of the most hilarious and otherworldly things I’ve ever seen in my entire life, let alone in a wedding. The bride and her maid of honor began their preparations in a gorgeous rustic house in the center of Vis. The house must have some supernatural properties, but with a strong preference for British things, as the previous occupant of the same house was none other than Pierce Brosnan, the 007 himself.
Wedding in Fort George
This was, hands down, one of the most breathtaking weddings I have witnessed. It was organized so perfectly that I felt privileged being there. The person responsible for this brilliant organization was Zena. She is a London-based Humanist celebrant, which is so much more than a wedding planner, because she also performs the ceremony, and she had spent an entire year preparing this particular island wedding.This may sound like a long stretch of time, but you would understand if you saw the amount of detail and her dedication to every single aspect of the complex “acts” of the play, intermissions and everything else. I loved her style from the moment she said: “Please, turn off your phones, don’t take photos, and just enjoy the ceremony”. A huge applause from me! I don’t know how much she charges, but even if it is millions of pounds, it is worth every penny, if you ask me. Her theatrical sense of direction, the way she drove the newlyweds and their guests on this emotional roller-coaster – just perfect. From laughter to tears, then back again. Outstanding.
Throughout her introductory speech, I was breathless. As I said, the crossover between the Monty Python and Will Shakespeare – and I am a big fan of both – had me in stitches.
However, my surprise did not end there. At sunset, the rooftop of the Fort George set the stage for guests’ speeches, which were brilliant, heartfelt but also incredibly funny. I am beginning to think that all British people have this particular, excellent sense of humor, and the ability to do standup delivery for hours. It is either that, or I stumbled upon a wedding where all the guests at this beautiful fort in Vis were members of some yet undiscovered troupe which is soon going to air on British national TV.
Regarding the stereotype about the Brits and the booze, sure, there was some alcohol consumed, but it only served to get the party going sooner, rather than later. By the time it was time for the traditional first dance, the party was already underway. I rarely, if ever, drink at weddings, but this time I had to partake, especially when I heard the so well-known songs by the Arctic Monkeys and Chumbawamba. Maybe the cocktails helped me blend in with the guests just a little more than usual. Hey, give me a break, it was a summer wedding at the one of the most beautiful islands of the Croatian coastline. I deserved it.
Photos by Croatia Wedding Photographer Damir Plavotić
Location: Fort George, Vis Island, Croatia
