Gabriela Ilieva: Telling stories through photography

When I first received the inquiry for this wedding day, my brain was rational: I did shoot the wedding of the future bride's friend and colleague, they were all happy so they recommended me, the future bride is not Bulgarian so of course she'd trust a local friend etc... But months later, once the wedding day began, I realised: this is so much more! This was truly special. 250 people from all over the world gathered in a magical place - Hyatt Regency Pravets Resort, and I was the one to capture the magic - what a task though! What a day!

It was so colorful, so different and dynamic — I’d even call it a personal challenge. 250 people from around the world, a horse entrance, a two-hour ceremony, music and colors, countless fascinating rituals, different understandings and traditions, silence and laughter — and at the center of it all, Alisa and Eashan's smiles that never left their faces! From 9 in the morning until 10 at night. We had a few prep meetings, discussions, and even watched videos of traditional ceremonies, but the day still turned out to be surprising and beautiful. I was the only photographer which, at times, was challenging but I’m actually glad about that — I saw my own limits, saw my mind even more alert. It was a challenge to shoot in my style, because so many of the small moments (in my opinion) needed to be given their own sacred space but I'm content.

The emotions I feel — even now as I write this — outweighs all the photos I'm not fully happy with. I’m incredibly grateful to have been part of this day - not as someone important on the vendors list, but simply as an observer. I love working with foreigners, capturing the energy of weddings from different nationalities, because I see the alternative ways happiness is perceived and expressed — and it’s so beautiful. Take a look at this short selection: