Sun, 12 Jan 1997

Guess What? Susi Susanti, Alan Budikusuma

Indonesia' golden badminton couple, Susi Susanti and Alan Budikusuma, who were both awarded golden medals at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics Games, are getting married. They will exchange vows at the altar on Feb. 9 while the reception will take place on Feb. 23. at Grand Melia hotel, Jakarta.

"I am preparing a grand Athena wedding for them," said Kim Thong, a fashion designer and noted wedding reception consultant, who needed more than a year to prepare the event.

Much time was needed to search for beaded paraphernalia in all corners of the globe, such as Thai key rings for door gifts and a bridal tiara from an antique collection of the Franklin Mint, like the one worn at New York's first staging of Cinderella.

"The Grecian influence is not only in the choice of apparel or the wedding cake which will be shaped in the form of an antique stadium, but also in the grandeur of the wedding reception," said Kim, who is busy making three gowns in shades of silver, off- white, and peppermint.

"I will make their wedding ceremony an unforgettable event, just like a fairy tale," he said.

Kim, who has been given full say over preparations by Susi and Alan, has appointed a specialist to choreograph the festivity of the year, which will include several surprise performances. (36)