Imogen and Travis

After 12 years and three planned proposals, this couple finally said ‘I do’ in an iconic Bendigo venue.

Photography by Ildiko Photography

A Year 11 accounting class in 2008 is where it all began for Imogen and Travis… sort of. While these lovebirds count it as their first meeting, it wasn’t until two years later, during a night out for their university Orientation Week, that they made it official. They’ve never looked back since. Ten years later, Travis decided to propose, but it wasn’t that simple. A little thing called COVID-19 foiled his plans not once, but twice. A holiday to New Zealand in March 2020 was Plan A, and Plan B was a getaway for their 10th anniversary in August that year. Both trips were unfortunately cancelled due to lockdowns. Instead, during a beautiful sunset at the Mount Alexander lookout just before they were meant to go away, Travis finally got down on one knee and popped the question. After a challenging couple of years, all of Travis and Imogen’s family and friends gathered together at Ulumbarra Theatre on April 9, 2022, to watch them wed. Ulumbarra doubled as the ceremony and reception venue, and a wall of greenery labelled “Travigen’s” (their couple portmanteau) acted as the perfect backdrop. Another cute touch were the little motifs of their dog Fuji. Imogen wore a showstopping red princess gown from Bella E La Bestia Bridal in Maribyrnong, and seeing her walk down the aisle in it was the highlight of the day for Travis. To match a dress as unique as Imogen’s, special accessories were a must. “My necklace was one my mum wore at her own wedding, while my red bracelet we bought when Travis and I travelled to Japan, our favourite holiday,” says Imogen. Travis dressed for the occasion in a grey suit from Joe Paul Menswear. Barber Joe from Honeyeater attended to the men’s grooming, with Kristy Patullo at Maiden Boutique and Killer Queen Beauty and Creative Studio styling Imogen and her bridesmaids. Rings from Michel’s Jewellery in Strath Village were exchanged during the ceremony, which was officiated by Jo Menzel. The delicious cake for the reception was from Cake Chic by Lyndell, and DJ Jess Maguire provided the allimportant tunes.

“I think our use of music made the whole day unique to us, from the ceremony, walking-down-the-aisle songs to the entrance songs and first dance,” says Imogen. The couple practised hard for their first dance, which went off without a hitch. They chose to dance to The Undercurrents by Maximo Park, a song that holds deep meaning for them. Imogen will never forget walking around Bendigo with the bridal party and photographer Ildiko. The wedding took place during the town’s Elvis fever, allowing for a fun photoshoot outside the Bendigo Art Gallery. The only hiccup on the day? “Tripping on my dress a few times!” says Imogen. Luckily, her bridesmaids were on hand to help carry the stunning dress. Everything else for Travis and Imogen’s wedding went to plan, and their advice to other couples would be to “look at different ideas and stick to what you would like for your own wedding”. “The day is about you, so take some time to reflect and enjoy it.” After the big day was done, Imogen and Travis headed off on a road trip around Sydney, the Blue Mountains, the Central Coast and Canberra. They enjoyed many fancy dinners and the entertainment of the big city, and plenty of relaxation was savoured before heading back to their normal lives. “Not much has changed, as we’ve been together almost 12 years,” they say. “But being able to say we’re husband and wife has been really nice.”

COMMODORE MOTEL MILDURA

STAY | TASTE | CONFERENCES

Within walking distance to the Mildura shopping and dining precinct. All our modern rooms are designed with comfort in mind and contemporary decor for both the business and leisure guest.

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BENDIGO ERNEST HOTEL

STAY | DINE | SHOP | EXPLORE

Situated in the heart of the CBD, our new boutique offering provides holiday and business travellers a luxurious, modern and ambient getaway set against a grand heritage backdrop. Complimentary off-street parking. 100m from the Art Gallery.

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PINOT AND PICASSO

PAINT & SIP

Not your average art class! Creative workshops with a BYO boozy twist. Perfect for catch-ups, birthdays, hen’s, team building events. Unleash your inner creative and surprise yourself! Book now! Hargreaves Mall, Bendigo.

GOLDEN REEF MOTOR INN

STAY | DINE | SHOP | EXPLORE

An ideal base to discover the Bendigo region, with easy access to the CBD, major attractions and sporting events. Experience spacious, clean, modern and comfortable accommodation with pool, spa and free wifi available.

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STAR CINEMA

BENDIGO’S ONLY BOUTIQUE CINEMA

Plush couches, a licensed bar and an amazing programme of current and classic films for the discerning film enthusiast. Operating in the grand old Eaglehawk Town Hall, we screen 7 nights a week plus matinees Friday to Sunday.

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CORTILLE

COFFEE | ALL DAY BREAKFAST | LUNCH | LICENSED

Our seasonal main menu includes delicious favourites such as mushroom crumpets, cauliflower and gorgonzola fritters, fried chicken and waffles, 5 grain porridge and lamb. Offering a light tapas style menu on Friday and Saturday evenings.