Photography: Skyy Woo
Styling Assistant: Jimmy Tan
Hair & Makeup: Khai Lee (Hp: 96759639, using Bed Head by TIGI & by Terry
Model: DJ/Mannequin
All accessories, stylist’s own
Special thanks to
Druk Asia Bhutan Travel specialists (www.drukasia.com), Cipto & Joni, DrukAir Singapore (www.drukair.com.sg), our guide Chencho Bull & driver Thinley Dorji.
Thanks also to the wonderful staff at COMO Uma Paro and COMO Uma Punakha hotels for their wonderful hospitality, attentive service and warm friendship.
Dochula Pass, graced with 108 memorial chortens or stupas, was built by Her Majesty Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk, the eldest Queen Mother in a circular construction to honour Bhutanese soldiers killed in a fight with Indian militants in 2003. The mountain pass is adjacent to the kingdom’s first Royal Botanical Park and is a popular destination for locals and tourists. At over 3,000m above sea level, it grants one a beautiful view of Bhutan in all directions.
Floral embellished gown with layered tulle skirt, Rico-A-Mona Bridal
Druk Wangyal Lhakhang Temple at Dochula Pass was completed in 2008, and is a Bhutanese fusion of the 21st and 15th centuries, with traditional Buddhist culture alongside modern wall murals bearing images such as a Druk Air plane and even monks with a laptops. Outside the temple is this magnificent old rhododendron tree.
Silk chiffon A-line gown with long train and beaded lace bodice, Silhouette The Atelier.
Tiger’s Nest is the popular name of Taktsang Palphug Monastery in Paro Valley. It is said to be the holiest Himalayan Buddhist site in Bhutan, and hugs the side of a cliff more than 3,000m above the Paro Valley. It is here that Guru Rinpoche, also known as Padmasambhava, was said to have materialised in the eighth century on the back of a flying tigress. The monastery and temple complex, which commemorates this auspicious beginning, was built in the 1600s. Shrouded in clouds on most days, it is accessible on foot or by a mule track that winds its way through a lush pine forest. Even the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge made the three-hour trek up to the temple earlier this year.
Buddha Point, located atop a hill in Kuenselphodrang Nature Park, overlooks the southern entrance to Thimphu Valley.
It has one of the largest statues (51.5m) of Buddha in the world that sits in lotus position upon a large meditation hall. Made of bronze and gilded, the Buddha Dordenma houses 125,000 smaller similar statues. The sprawling pavilion around it has gilded statues of deities, adding a regal feel to the area.
Satin silk cheongsam with a sheer back showing colourful floral detailing, DiGio Bridal
For daytime outdoor weddings, keep your makeup fresh and natural. Khai created a look with blushing pink hues and a light layer of shimmer. Brows are natural and the eyes have a darker upper lid for more impact. A simple side parting with braiding is chic and romantic.
Sheer cropped top and A-line skirt with pretty petals, DiGio Bridal.
The COMO Uma Punakha is an intimate luxury hideaway with soul-stirring views that’s set on a secluded hilltop overlooking the Mo Chu River in Punakha Valley.
The COMO Uma Punakha is an intimate luxury hideaway with soul-stirring views that’s set on a secluded hilltop overlooking the Mo Chu River in Punakha Valley.
Chiffon dress with floral embroidery on the bodice and white shorts under the skirt, DiGio Bridal.
A clean, sheer face with darker upper lids and deeper red lips up the wow factor. The hair is drawn back in a free and easy bun, creating a and breezy contrast to the makeup.
Dress, Rico-A-Mona Bridal
The COMO Uma Paro Hotel, inspired by traditional Bhutanese architecture, is a serene haven surrounded by lush mountains and valleys. Perfect for couples yearning for intimate time together.
Gown with sheer lacy train, Rico-A-Mona Bridal
Rinpung Dzong, meaning fortress on a heap of jewels, was built in 1646 to defend the Paro valley against Tibetan invaders. The dzong is now used as a government administrative centre and school for monks. Built on a steep hill, its interiors feature stunning Bhutanese architecture and fabulous murals. Just below the dzong is a traditional cantilever bridge that is perfect for wedding shoots.
Gown with sheer floral embellished bodice and soft chiffon skirt, Silhouette The Atelier.
Shot at Druk Wangyal Lhakhang Temple near the Dochula Pass.
Boat neck dress with flouncy sleeves and lace trims, Rico-A-Mona Bridal
Kyichu Lhakhang in Paro is one of Bhutan’s oldest (seventh century) and most beautiful temples. Locals circle the temple numerous times while chanting with prayer beads, and turning prayer wheels for spiritual blessings and well-being. This chorten is said to contain the ashes of Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche, the revered Buddhist master and spiritual teacher of the queen mother.
Lace mermaid gown with sheer panels, Rico-A-Mona Bridal
Shot at Punakha Dzong
Lace gown with tulle skirt and low sheer back, Rico-A-Mona Bridal