Fusion of Cultures: Guernsey-Sri Lankan Wedding Set to Feature in Hello! Magazine

Thelanki Wimalaratne and Matthew Ashton celebrated their wedding in two London venues, combining Guernsey and Sri Lankan traditions. The event, featuring a Buddhist ceremony and cultural performances, will be highlighted in Sri Lankan Hello! magazine. A homecoming celebration is also planned in Guernsey, signifying the bride’s transition into married life.

A remarkable wedding uniting Guernsey and Sri Lankan cultures recently took place across two London venues and will be featured in Sri Lankan Hello! magazine. The union of Thelanki Wimalaratne, who hails from Sri Lanka, and Matthew Ashton from Guernsey commenced with a private registry ceremony at Fitzrovia Chapel, followed by a celebration at the Natural History Museum under a majestic suspended whale.

The evening festivities began with a traditional Sri Lankan Buddhist ceremony, accompanied by captivating performances from dancers and drummers. The Sensation Band, an internationally recognized ensemble known for its performances at elite events, also entertained guests alongside Dhol drummers. Mr. Ashton, who relocated from Guernsey in 2021 for a position at the Cabinet Office, met his fiancée shortly after arriving in London, where Mrs. Ashton had relocated for a career in property development.

Mr. Ashton fondly recalls meeting his future wife while she was walking her Shih Tzu, Toby, marking the beginning of their relationship. Toby played a charming role in the wedding as he served as the ringbearer, donning a tuxedo that matched the groomsmen’s attire. Mrs. Ashton comes from a distinguished family in Sri Lanka, which led to Sri Lankan Hello! magazine reaching out to feature their wedding.

The celebration flawlessly blended cultural elements, with Mr. Ashton’s family embracing Sri Lankan customs. Women adorned sarees, while men wore suits, and the color scheme mirrored the Guernsey flag with white, red, and yellow. Mrs. Ashton described the significance of the traditional Poruwa ceremony that included Kandyan dancers and drummers during their procession into the ceremony.

The couple plans to continue their celebrations with a homecoming event in Guernsey in June at the OGH. Mrs. Ashton explained the homecoming as a post-wedding Sri Lankan festivities where the groom’s family officially welcomes the bride into their home, symbolizing her entry into married life. Although they currently reside in London, the couple frequently visits Guernsey to reconnect with their friends and family.

The wedding of Thelanki Wimalaratne and Matthew Ashton beautifully intertwined Guernsey and Sri Lankan cultures, showcasing extraordinary traditions and celebrations. From the intimate ceremony at Fitzrovia Chapel to the vibrant festivities at the Natural History Museum, their union reflects the essence of both cultures. The upcoming homecoming in Guernsey promises additional celebrations, underscoring their commitment to honoring their heritages together.

Original Source: guernseypress.com