Meet Kaushala and Pasindu... 

Meet the stunning Kaushala Liyanage - a Colombo based fashion designer with appearances at Colombo Fashion Week and Pasindu Samarakkody - a handsome, daring aerospace engineer, better known as Kaush and Pasi, with whom I had the fantastic opportunity to converse on their striking wedding, how to lead a successful marriage, and advice! Kaush and Pasi have been highschool hearts before they tied the knot on in 2010 bringing them to 6 years of a happily ever after. 

Location: Paradise Road The Tintagel Colombo 
Date: January 23rd 2010 

Hey Kaushala! Where did you and your husband tie the knot? 

We got officially married at the Harbor View Hotel and concluded it with a small dinner at Paradise Road The Tintagel Colombo which was exclusively for our closest family and friends. It was rather small and intimate. 

What were your inspirations for your wedding dress and the ceremony décor? 

I always believed in simplicity and the elegant nature of the colour white, which is why I picked out a dress that’ll never go out of style and yet characterize who I am. 

Where did you purchase your wedding dress? 

I’m a designer, hence I designed it myself. 

What would you say in your opinion are few of the mistakes brides make when picking out or designing their wedding dress? 

I think the biggest mistake everyone tends to repeat is that they listen to what others want them to wear. You need to keep in mind that this is YOUR day and it’s all about YOU therefore following your heart is important. 

How do you settle an argument? 

Good question. I think every couple has their own ways of dealing with stress and other discomforting situations. When we argue, we argue, and we simply let out whatever we have to say to each other. And that’s when the timeout comes and it’s just to have one's space for maybe 15 minutes? (We can’t really stay away from each other haha) and it is at this time that makes you think about things and to replay the scenario in your mind only to laugh about how silly it is all. And then comes the walk of shame, were you to go make peace. If you hold on to things and don’t express yourself, things add up and could escalate. 

What type of activities do you two enjoy? 

We absolutely love to do everything together! Whether it’s eating, or watching movies or simply rant and gossip. And to spend time with our beautiful daughter is our all time favourite activity. 

What do you feel makes a successful marriage? 

Honesty, understanding each other and to give it all you have. You should never throw away something that’s so great and so hard to find, marriage isn’t easy and it is a lot of work. Me and Pasi have known each other since we were kids therefore it makes it a bit easier since we have a deep connection and quite an understanding. Nowadays people believe spending lavishly on grand weddings is the ideal thing to do, however in my perspective I believe it’s not about spending so much on those important moments of your life, nor is it the grand gestures of a romantic dinner or fancy gifts. A good marriage is based on those moments of laughter, the breakdowns, the hugs, snuggles, kisses and the I love you’s. Those are what matters and not material things and to keep it real. 

Do you have kids? 

Yes a one year old! Who has been the best thing that has ever happened to us. She multiplies our joy by infinity, and is our ray of sunshine and happiness that we’ve been missing out. 

How did you guys meet? 

We met in school; we secretly fancied each other for a very long time until Pasindu finally decided to ask me out. 

If you could give newlyweds advice what would it be? 

Whether it’s travelling or dining out or even working out. Do it TOGETHER. Go crazy and let down your hair and dance together to the music of life. Identify your priorities, save! Don’t go spending on things that’s gonna end up collecting dust. Always remember the cuddles, and kisses – day and night. 

Interviewed by Zainab Faizal