Issue 10 | Summer | Brisbane Wedding Weekly Magazine by Brisbane Wedding Weekly

BRIGHT DELIGHT Photographed by: Katrina Cram Photography

108 A L I S TA I R A N D R E N E E Photographed by: Heart and Colour

A MARRIOTT WEDDING KAIT AND THOMAS

Photographed by: Joseph Willis

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Photographed by: Ivy & Pine Photography

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Contents EDITION 10 | SUMMER

FROM THE EDITOR

OFF INTO

THE SUNSET

CHRIS AND ANNA

Madison Bryers

Honeymoon destinations

Their wedding

A WARM

JOHNNIE AND

CLIFF AND SINIKIWE

Gold Coast reception venues

Their wedding

Their engagement

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176

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RECEPTION

GEORGIA

FROM T H E E DITOR Madison Bryers

December already?! The making of this issue was brought to you by many a moment spent swooning over the absolutely stunning imagery that was submitted to us. In these pages you will find several real weddings, all with very different vibes, yet all spectacular in their own ways. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll even spot a few wedding videos along the way! On page 62 you will find some helpful hints for planning your honeymoon, whatever your budget. 2016 holds some exciting expansion for our publication, and we give you a little taste as we widen our horizons and showcase the work of some incredibly talented and creative Gold Coast vendors on page 108. Also see our pick of the best Gold Coast reception venues on page 171. For this issue we teamed up with our friends at the Marriott Hotel, to show you what they can do for you in 2016 for just $105 per person (page 218), before capping off 2015 with a gorgeous engagement shoot by Amanda from We Are Twine. On behalf of Britta and the whole BWW team, we would like to thank you for your support in 2015, and wish you a very happy holidays.

Love Madison

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Alister and Renee PHOTOGRAPHED BY HEART AND COLOUR

the love story Renee: I was living with my good friend and bridesmaid. Alister was living with one of our mutual friends. Both our leases were up. All four of us decided to move into a 4-bedroom rental in January 2010. I knew of Alister but had never spent any time with him. All I knew was that he was in a band, played the bass guitar and was a bit too cool for me. We immediately worked well as housemates. He had a cheekiness about him that was instantly charming. I was attracted to his down to earth nature and lack of pretence. In about May 2010 we talked about the idea of a group weekend trip to Melbourne. We both asked a few friends to come along. None could make it. I remember asking Alister whether we should still go. He responded maybe a little too eagerly in the postive. By that stage there was chemistry between us, but given our age difference (6 years) the possibility of him being interested in me never entered my mind as a realistic possibility. We had a delightful evening out in Melbourne, Alister told me he â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;liked meâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. I responded in kind. That was the beginning of the next five years and a lovely weekend in Melbourne, which for obvious reasons, now holds an affinity in our hearts.

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her on him These were the words I said to him in our wedding speech. “He is kind. He is honest. He is a person of integrity. He has a quiet ambition and confidence about him. He is an extremely hard worker. He has the respect of his peers and of his soldiers, and of me. He is always willing to accommodate others. He is the least judgemental person I know. He always believes the best in people and about any situation. He is funny. He does not take himself to seriously. He loves to learn and is constatly seeking out information and knowledge on a wide range of subjects. He is willing to learn and to grow. He is eager for new experiences. He is someone I can be with for days, weeks and months on end and whose presence I never tire of. I am content when I am with him. My heart is happy just to ‘be’ with him. He accepts me for who I am and does not seek to change me. He is supportive. He challenges me. He allows me to be me. He is fiercely protective. He loves and adores me. And I love him. He holds an unwavering space in my heart. And he’s a bit cute.”

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him on her I love the way Renee has made me a better person. She inspires me with her drive, strength and devotion. She has always supported me and stood by me.

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wedding style Industrial, simple, elegant and warm.

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special moment Renee: My favourite moment was when we said our vows to each other, which we had written together. It was so special having our nearest and dearest there to witness our declarations and promises to each other. It was really what the whole day was about and the most special moment that I will never forget. Alister: The moment I first saw my beautiful bride. This moment will always be captured in my mind and is something I will remember forever. I also valued the time where we said our vows, which we had written together, to each other, in front of our closest friends.

sentimental touches Renee: We added our own touches to the ceremony so it wasn’t too traditional. We had a husband and wife marry us rather than just one celebrant. Murray had been Alister’s high school principal and were the ministers of the church we attend. Both had played important roles in our lives so it made sense to have them both play such a significant part in our wedding day. We also wrote our own vows together. We maintained the traditional touches of my father walking me down the aisle and Alister not seeing me until I walked down the aisle. Alister: Our ceremony differed from the traditional with Renee’s idea of each bridesmaid having their young daughters as flower girls walk down the aisle with them. It was very cute.

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;We had a five tower cheese cake as part of a grazing table which we cut right after the ceremony. We also had a champagne toast at that point. While we had photos our guests then all enjoyed the cheese and grazing table. The table was so full it lasted and our guests were grazing on it until the end of the night. The table and cake was put together by our amazing caterers who came all the way from Melbourne, Sam and Celeste Gant from Pot & Pan.â&#x20AC;?

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the proposal The night actually didn’t go to plan at all, but it was still wonderful. Alister was placed in Melbourne for six months with the Army. I lived in Brisbane. I went to visit him one weekend. He took me for dinner at the restaurant where we had gotten together almost five years before. We then went for a walk along the river which we had also done five years ago. However, this time “White Night’ was on and 500,000 people had descended on Melbourne city so it wasn’t the romantic night he had hoped for as every inch of the city was packed with crowds. We ended up back at our apartment where he proposed when it was just the two of us with a beautiful pear shaped diamond ring. He knew I didn’t want a public proposal so the way it ended up was just perfect. Just the two of us.

Marriage means Renee: A commitment to face the adventures of life, both the difficult and the wonderful, together. Alistair: A commitment between two people to grow with each other, stretch each other, teach each other and overcome with each other.

“The wedding favours were such a special part of the day for us. My bridesmaid Stacey and her husband Mark run a leather business in Melbourne called Kind Sir. They hand stamped all of our guests and suppliers leather tags with our guest’s names and a quote (‘To travel is to live’ and ‘Explore Dream Discover’). These luggage tags doubled as place cards on the tables. Our guests were delighted with such a beautiful gift that they can use over and over again.”

the reception Renee: We wanted our nearest friends to be able to come together and celebrate over a delicious and sustainable meal in a setting where they could create new friends and feel relaxed. We therefore decided on a setting of two long parallel tables with the bridal party sitting with our guests rather than having a separate table, and with a sit down shared menu of wholesome, delicious food. We chose natural wooden tables to compliment the greenery and white florals which adorned the room and tables. Alistair: With Reneeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s love for the natural we created a place where our friends and family could easily share the eveningâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s moment with each other.

the food Renee: We wanted a meal that was able to be shared between our guests and that was simply delicious food that they kept going back for, which they did! When we found our caterers Pot & Pan from Melbourne I knew they would be perfect for what we had in mind. The mains we chose were 12 hour slow cooked lamb shoulder, whole woodoven roasted snapper and slow cooked pork belly accompanied by a range of sides. Desserts were roving and were donut balls, ice cream sliders and Portuguese custard tarts. So many of our guests commented that they have never been to a wedding with such amazing food! We also organised espresso martinis (a favourite of mine) to be served at about 8:30pm with dessert. This was a great treat which our guests, and we, absolutely loved.

advice Renee: Be true to yourself and don’t feel the need to have or do something just because it’s tradition or because that is what is ‘usually done’ at a wedding. A wedding should be a unique reflection of who you are as a couple rather than a pro forma event. Alistair: Be proactive and be understanding of each other’s opinions.

ake the Label, Cameo Collective, Thurley | Groomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Suit: Custom by P Johnson Tailors | Groomsmen Suits: Roger David | Flowers: Green ttle Peach Co. | Entertainment: Brett Shaw and Hayley Calvert | Favours: Kind Sir Leatherware | Videography: Joseph Willis Videography dination: Gather and Plan

off into th

honeymoons to We’ve all imagined it… driving off into the sunset in a chic (possibly vintage) car decorated with old beer cans and an artistically written ‘Just Married’ trailing behind you as your nearest and dearest wave you off after the best day of your life. We all accept that the honeymoon comes after the wedding. The term ‘honeymoon’ has dubious origins, but many accept its meaning to be derived from the olde English ‘hony moone’. Hony, meaning honey, refers to the unique feeling that couples experience through the first few tender weeks of marriage, as well as the tradition dating back to early centuries where newlyweds were gifted enough mead, or honey wine, to last them a moon’s cycle. Today the honeymoon has evolved into a chance for the newly-hitched couple to take some time away from the world, de-stress after all of the wedding planning and enjoy each other’s company. This fundamental purpose is important to keep in mind when planning your honeymoon as things can quickly spiral out of hand when thinking about costs, schedules, and the actual wedding. It’s not uncommon for couples nowadays to delay their honeymoon until a week, or longer, after their wedding so that they have the chance to properly organise their time away. Some newlyweds will even wait longer so that they can line up their honeymoon with work holidays, but like many other things, it’s down to personal choice. Are you chasing an adventure? Or just after some relaxed time with your loved one? Luckily for you, we’ve rounded up three of the best places to honeymoon that can cater to any taste or budget.

$ A BEACHSIDE BREAK For an inexpensive option, any local beachside town is an amazing place to unwind with a margarita by the pool. We Brisbanites are spoilt for choice, with so many options within easy driving range… Byron Bay, Mooloolaba and Broadbeach are all wonderful, but our pick of the bunch has got to be Noosa. Noosa boasts the glamorous Hastings Street, jam-packed with fabulous boutiques, swanky restaurants and tanned locals, but it only takes a short drive towards the Hinterlands to escape the hustle and find yourself in the middle of nowhere where you can find wineries, cheese makers and other local artisans hidden in the hills. For those with a taste for saltwater, Noosa also provides a myriad of beaches. From the Noosa Main beach to those hidden away and only accessible by foot, you’re sure to find the perfect spot to surf or sunbathe. There’s also an outlet for those gym bunnies – the Noosa National Park starts just at the end of Hastings Street and the trail is known for its spectacular coastal scenery.

he sunset

fit any budget And of course, we can’t forget the Noosa River and its famous canals. There are dozens of resorts that back onto the water so you won’t be short of options when finding a place to stay within budget. Without many travel fees, a honeymoon in Noosa might give you a little bit of extra dosh to splash on fancy accommodation, but there’s also other fantastic options that cater to a lower price range.

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$$ A DEVILISH DELIGHT Tasmania is not generally seen as the holiday spot of choice for anyone under the age of fifty, but we think that this little state is the perfect spot to get away amongst rugged wilderness and quaint country towns. With natural wonders such as Cradle Mountain, Wineglass Bay and Mount Wellington all within reach, Tasmania is a wonderful place where you can slow right down surrounded by some of the best scenery that Australia has to offer. Drive through the mountains to be surprised by the local wildlife and impressive natural structures, then warm up at an isolated tea room. You can also reminisce on Australia’s convict history by visiting the Port Arthur Site, or shop up a storm of locally made goods at the weekly Salamanca Markets in Hobart.

One thing you can’t go past though, is the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) also located in Hobart. Mona contains everything from Ancient Egyptian artefacts to provocative contemporary art, making it one of the most controversial, privately owned art collections in the world. Encompassing all facilities from accommodation to fine dining, tennis courts to wineries, MONA is a must-see. There’s just one more spot we think you should check out – the aptly named Honeymoon Bay in Freycinet National Park. Whilst still a local holiday, Tasmania gives you the chance to experience a different way of life below the Bass Strait. Without the fuss of passports or currency conversion, this little island is the perfect destination to live luxe without stretching the budget.

Image Source: http://www.wineglassbaytours.com.au/

Image Source: http://www.positano.com/

$$$ A EUROPEAN ADVENTURE Okay, sure, they call Paris the city of love. And while the French capital certainly has its fair share of delectable treats on offer, there are heaps of other places dotted around Europe that offer just as much romance as Paris. Our pick? Positano on the Amalfi Coast in Italy. A favourite among celebs, this seaside town is famous for its colourful houses stacked up on the hill looking over the breathtaking coastline below. With a vibrant resort atmosphere, you’ll definitely feel loved-up and well-fed with the Italians. For something quintessentially Italian, try taking a Vespa along the coastal road and absorbing the scenery. Otherwise, you can immerse yourself in the picture-perfect landscape and take a boat along the shore to discover all of the hidden coves and bays amongst the cliffs.

You can get to Positano via a seventy-five minutes bus ride from Naples. But make sure to pack your walking shoes – the towns along the Amalfi Coast are known for their lack of roads. Instead, you’ll explore via steep flights of steps and find ancient Roman ruins beside local markets where you can get the most beautiful custom-made sandals. To get the most out of your stay, there’s no doubt that you’ll have to spend a little bit of cash but it’s definitely worth it - sit back on your balcony, enjoy the view, and taste the salt air. Wherever you choose to go, make sure that you use the time to appreciate your partner and take in married life. As they say, ‘the first month is the sweetest!’

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Chris and Anna Photos by Kait Photography

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him on her I love Annaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s passion for life, care for others, optimism and sense of adventure.

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her on him I love his integrity, approach to life and humour

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the first date Anna: We went out for dinner to a turkish restaurant along South Bank, Brisbane and then took the City Cat to Bulimba, where we had dessert. I was new to Brisbane and was obsessed with the City Cat, so it was the perfect night. Chris made me laugh until I nearly cried. Chris: I wanted it to be fun, above all else. I wanted us to be able to get to know each other â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and the night surpassed my expectations.

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the proposal Anna: Chris took me to the exact place where we had our first kiss a year ago to the day - a long stretch of beach that had a rock wall which led a couple of hundred metres out into the bay. Chris had spent hours that afternoon hanging the lights around the rock wall so as we walked out onto it, hundreds of fairy lights lit up the rock wall. Chris then turned to me, smiling, and asked if I would marry him. I was so excited, I exclaimed, “YES!” nearly knocking the ring out of his hands. Chris: It was so fun to plan and the look on Anna’s face when I proposed was priceless. I wanted it to not only be special but above all sentimental.

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the ceremony Anna: I think our wedding reflected us. We had photos before the ceremony, so Chris saw me first in my wedding dress before many others did. We had the wedding and reception at the same venue, an hour apart. The reception was held an hour after the ceremony and everyone who was invited to the ceremony stayed on for the reception. We completed created the celebrantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s speech and our own vows, and the reception was cocktail. The venue usually didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t use the restaurant for receptions, but we were lucky to have it because it was the perfect place and being half alfresco, it suited our theme perfectly.

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special moment Anna: Walking down the aisle to Chris while our favourite song - Sky full of Stars - was playing acoustically by the band. Also, half the ceremony was officiated by our mentors/pastors, which was amazing. Chris: Of course Anna walking down the aisle was a highlight for me. Overall the day ran smoothly but seeing Anna at the end of the aisle was the first moment where I felt a real sense of peace. All the weeks of planning and organising had lead this moment and it was perfect.

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wedding style We wanted a modern Moroccan feel - we had a lot of lanterns, moroccan trays, silver tea pots with flowers, candles, and a moroccan aisle rug for the aisle.

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first dance Lost Stars from the film Begin Again. We wanted something unique.

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marriage means Anna: Spending every day with the one person that makes you feel so completely full of joy. It means love, commitment and promising to each other a lifetime of fun, laughter and adventures. Chris: Getting to spend the rest of your life with the one you love.

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the honeymoon Anna: We actually won a trip to Paris to see the French Open Finals, so we stayed in Paris for a week. We also went to Zanzibar as sailing in Zanzibar was a dream of mine since I was a child. We then spent some time in Turkey and on the French Riviera. Chris: Both of us like to be on the move. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not very good at sitting around and relaxing for long periods of time. Having said that we wanted to have a few days relaxing after the busy months leading up to the wedding. We managed to find a great balance of relaxation and adventure, it really was the perfect Honeymoon!

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BRIGHT DELIGHT by katrina cram photography

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gown . on kliff

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model . jessica cavallaro hair and makeup . sugar mobile makeup head piece . komorebi bride

ST YLING shoot the groom

flowers by julia rose venue . babalou

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WILLOW erin clare couture

KAIT AND THOMAS P H O T O S BY J O S E P H W I L L I S

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HIM ON HER I love Kaitâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s love of life and people, her never-ending joy and kind heart for me and others.

HER ON HIM I love Thomasâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; sincere and loving heart! He is sensitive but strong and caring.

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THE FIRST

Kait: In the city! We sat underneath the stars in t hours.

Thomas: Kabuki Teppanyaki Restaurant at the St walk through the botanic

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D AT E

the botanical gardens and talked for

tamford Plaza. Then ice cream and a cal gardens.

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THE PROPOSAL Kait: In stunning Canungra Valley, it was beautiful and special since Thomas had planned every single moment of the morning and it was so beautifully executed. Thomas: O’Rielly’s Vineyard, Canungra. Early morning hot air balloon ride, champagne breakfast and then a stroll by the beautiful creek at O’Rielly’s.

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THE CEREMONY Kait: We opted for a traditional wedding ceremony; we wanted to get married the same way as our grandparents and parents had done before us. Thomas: People have been getting married in churches for 1000s of years. It’s a special place to stand before God and make a lifelong commitment.

SPECIAL MOMENT Kait: Seeing Thomas’ face when I first walked into the church, couldn’t focus on any other person in the room other than him. Thomas: Seeing Kait walk into the church and start walking down the aisle to me and seeing the huge smile on her face.

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ADVICE Kait: Always focus on what really matters, your marriage and not your wedding day. Communicate always and embrace and enjoy every element of the wedding season. Thomas: Focus on the marriage, not the wedding. The wedding day is just a celebration of joining together. Of course you want to have a beautiful day and enjoy it. But actually joining together as husband and wife and getting that right is far more important.

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MARRIAGE MEANS Kait: A long life commitment to loving and journeying together for the rest of our live, with God always in the centre. Thomas: Spending the rest of my life with my best friend. Honouring God by being the best husband I can be and by putting my wife first before myself always.

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THE RECEPTION Kait: I wanted a relaxed, happy vibe. Thomas: All of the creativeness inside Kaitâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mind.

FIRST DANCE Young and Beautiful by Lana Del Ray

LOVE THE WEDDING? WAT C H T H E V I D E O

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a warm reception Picking the venue for your reception is undoubtedly one of the most crucial (and stressfull!) steps in wedding planning. Usually one of the first decisions made, the reception space can determine the style, size and cost of your wedding. Luckily, the array of reception venues available on the Gold Coast leaves you spoilt for choice with numerous options that are sure to please anyone. Are you looking for an intimate setting for a small, sit-down dinner? Or are you planning to have a raging party? These five stunning venues feature lush gardens, spacious function rooms, and picturesque views that will definitely make your special day one you will never forget. Take a look at our top five picks for reception venues on the Gold Coast.

Intercontinental Sanctuary Cove Located at the northern end of the Gold Coast within Sanctuary Cove, this magnificent location boasts a number of different function rooms that can cater from thirty to three hundred guests. Intercontinental Sanctuary Coveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s function rooms include The Grange with its polished timber floors and high ceilings, The Fireplace overlooking the beautiful fountain terrace and The Garden Lounge perfect for an intimate wedding, just to name a few. You can also have your ceremony on site, with the Intercontinental Sanctuary Coveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gorgeous crystal chapel set amidst lush tropical gardens, manicured lawns, elegant fountains and a magnificent beach lagoon pool. The hotel also hosts a range of other wedding rituals that you can incorporate into your wedding to really make it one not to be forgotten. You can design your own ritual or use one that others have before, such as the tea and stone ceremonies. With dishes and cocktails hailing from Intercontinental hotels all over the world, you are spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing the catering. Maybe a Squash Risotto with White Truffle Oil and Black Truffles for appetisers, Crispy Sea Bass with Green Mango, Bean Sprout and Cilantro Salad as your main, Dark Chocolate Mousse with Caramelised Hazelnuts for dessert with a signature Singapore Sling cocktail?

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Justin Lane If you are looking for a different option, look no further then Justin Lane Pizzeria and Bar located in Burleigh Heads. With their new function room located on the first floor that boasts views of the Burleigh foreshore, Justin Lane can cater to 85 people for a sit down reception and 125 for a cocktail style. This gorgeous restaurant utilises fresh local produce and ingredients to create enticing meals that wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t leave your guests disappointed. The delicious menu includes little appetizers: Meredith goats cheese, pickled zucchini and pork and fennel meatballs, as well as amazing pizza and pasta options: smoked pork belly, pear, provolone and chives pizza and the Tiger prawn, pappardelle, tomato, confit garlic and chilli pasta. Able to cater for both sit-down dinners and standing cocktail parties, this location is designed to give you and your guests a private, intimate experience. The function room comes fully equipped with a projector and large automatic screen, inhouse PA system and a wireless microphone that will help make your day unforgettable.

Image Source: Adam Ward Photography

Image Source: Surfers Paradies Golf Club

Surfers Paradise Golf Club The Surfers Paradise Golf Club provides a classic setting with spectacular views of the picturesque golf course, which offers the perfect backdrop for your perfect day or night time reception. With elegant sit down and cocktail style options available, including such delicacies as marinated butterfly prawn salad, Grilled coral trout with citrus butter sauce and white chocolate and raspberry gateaux. If you are leaning towards a cocktail option you can expect Thai prawn spring rolls, dim sims and spinach and fetta filos. With the self-contained indoor venue catering to up to 200 guests, it is perfect for any stylish sit-down event with a dance floor and bar. There is also an outdoor option located downstairs that accommodates up to 60 guests, perfect for your intimate reception. This is the location for you if you want a more budget friendly option but still want the wedding of your dreams. With free room hire and prices that start as little as $44 a head, this could be your perfect reception venue.

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Image Source: http://www.sheratonmiragegoldcoast.com

Sheraton Mirage Gold Coast The Sheraton Mirage Resort and Spa located on the Gold Coast’s main beach epitomises luxury and relaxation. The Sheraton Mirage features numerous function spaces that hold 50 – 450 guests so it works for both extravagant and intimate weddings. With cocktail, two and three course dinners available, you can expect to find a wide array of exquisite dishes no matter which you choose. Two and three-course dinner menus feature blue swimmer crab cakes with spiced aioli, a pickled ginger and micro herb salad, and basil chicken on prosciutto layered with potato dauphinoise, wilted spinach and a fire-roasted capsicum salad. Meanwhile, the cocktail menu includes filo tart of char siu pork on snow pea sprouts, wild mushroom ragout with chillies in pastry cases and glazed raspberry frangipani tarts. You could also opt for the Grand Mirage Seafood Buffet to put a distinctly Australian twist on things. As the only five-star beachfront resort on the Gold Coast, you’re sure to impress guests with this amazing menu and spectacular ocean views.

EcoStudio Fellini Ecostudio Fellini is located in the foothills of Springbrook National Park, capturing a serene and intimate atmosphere that would create the perfect setting for your wedding. The stunning five-acre property boasts a charming open-air chapel that overlooks the waters of Mudgeeraba Creek, providing a pictureperfect backdrop for couples celebrating their special day. The open, split-level deck also offers the ideal location for wedding receptions, where guests can enjoy a sumptuous menu of specialty cuisine while indulging in breathtaking views over the lush gardens and lake.

Image Source: Bird and Boy Photography

georgia and johnnie Photographed by Bayleigh Vedelago

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him on her â&#x20AC;&#x153;I love her confidence in me, and ability to make everything be okay. That smile can light up the night sky.â&#x20AC;?

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the love story Georgia: Our first “official” date was along time coming. Johnnie took me to The Lighthouse Restaurant, it is a seafood restaurant but I don’t eat seafood and it was supposed to have this magical view of the ocean but the tide was right out so it was just us sitting next to endless mudflats. I could see how nervous and anxious this all made him but it just made me fall even more for him. Teasing him about it is still one of my most favorite things to do today. Johnnie:Technically, Cleveland’s Lighthouse Restaurant. What made it special is the fact that George does not like seafood and this is primarily a seafood restaurant..I was unaware of the menu at the booking stage..haha.

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her on him The thing I love the most about Johnnie is the way that he always without hesitation or doubt makes me feel comfortable. It doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t matter if I am dressed my best with hair and makeup done or if I am wearing his old over stretched t-shirt, laying on the couch crying my eyes out at some movie, he always looks at me in the exact same way and I know he just sees me.

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the proposal Georgia: Every year on our anniversary he takes me back to The Lighthouse Restaurant and we relive that fateful first date. It was our 5 year anniversary and everything was very much the same, I had zero expectations (I had convinced myself not to get my hopes up - again). We were walking back to the car when suddenly he dropped to his knee, I was in complete shock and to be honest can barely remember what was said. I do remember asking him if this was a joke and was he just messing with me, and then I saw the look in his eyes. Thinking about it now still gives me a tight throat and butterflies . Johnnie: Cleveland’s Lighthouse Restaurant. I hadn’t told anyone but my Dad, it was our 5th Anniversary and we annually have dinner here (except one time when we were away). I kept the ring in my satchel and we went for a detour walk on our way back to the car. It was a Friday night on March 7th, Georgia had jokingly mentioned to me in our early days that if we weren’t Engaged in 5 years, she’d leave me (well I think it was a joke...). I used this in my introduction and got down on one knee. Georgia was the most unsure I’d ever seen her (in a good way)... the rest is history.

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the ceremony Georgia: The ceremony was traditional but then also had a more modern twist. We wrote our own promises to one another but also included some beautiful words written by our celebrant that we felt fit perfectly. Johnnie: We wrote our own vows; I cried, we laughed, we kissed. Our ceremony was short, but eternal.

favourite moment Georgia: My favorite moment during the ceremony was when we actually got to place the rings on each others finger. All the official words had been said and it was the moment our celebrant pronounced us husband and wife. It felt like I had been waiting forever to hear those words and the joy I felt at that moment was like nothing I have felt before. Johnnie: That feeling, when everyone goes silent as my girl and her bridesmaids arrive. Music starts and they begin down the aisle, one by one. It was one of the most powerful things Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve ever felt.

marriage means... Georgia: To me marriage means that you have found your other half. It is committing to a person who not only makes you better but you make them better and once you have found that person you always have a safe space and certain special strength behind you. Johnnie: Always and Forever. Us against the world.

wedding style We wanted a very classic wedding but with a clean modern twist. We chose â&#x20AC;&#x153;shades of whiteâ&#x20AC;? as the color palette and kept everything else quite simple as far as styling. The venue was too beautiful not to ensure that it was showcased.

the reception We really wanted our reception to be filled with love and happiness. The dance floor was a central part to the reception design so that everyone was able to dance and mingle and have a view of the celebrations. We wanted a classically elegant styled wedding that was crisp and light but still warm and almost magical feeling.

advice Georgia: Talk to each other a lot, about everything and once you have picked something stick to it. Don’t over think. If you like something or want something then do it and stand by your decision. Johnnie: Take it easy on your list, it’s the most expensive part and don’t invite people because you think you should, invite people because you want to. Set an early RSVP and get the invites out sooner than later, people get slack with the response time and you may end up with a few empty seats otherwise.

first dance Our first dance was to Nicest Thing by Kate Nash. This song has a lot of personal meaning to us. It was a song that right from the beginning of our relationship we would drive around with the windows down listening to so it only felt natural to have it at a pinnacle point for us.

the guest list Georgia: For me the most difficult part of the wedding planning was the guest list. Trying to negotiate and sort out who should and shouldn’t be invited and the “if we invite them, we have to invite them”. Eventually we decided that the golden rule was to only have guests that knew both Johnnie and I as a couple. It meant that there were a few people that were not happy but in the end those that mattered made the effort. Johnnie: Choosing our Wedding Party. It’s hard to single out a few people to stand up there next to you and to know that looking back in 20 years, you made the right choice. It wasn’t choosing the people to do it, so much as eliminating the people to not do it.

loved the wedding? watch the video!

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A MARRIOTT WEDDING Photographer: Ivy and Pine Venue: Marriott Hotel Brisbane

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Dress: White Lily Couture Hair: Naturally Vintage Hair Makeup: Blush and Bangs Model: Samantha Cuff

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Flowers:

bouquet boutique

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Cake: Deliberately Delicious Linen: All Unique Wedding Decorations

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Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Your Ceremony Trish Sargent Marriage Celebrant Congratulations! You have found each other and are now ready to be married! Choosing the type of ceremony to have can seem confusing at first with so many options and choices to make, but this is where I come in. With my extensive knowledge of hundreds of wedding traditions, customs and rituals, I can help you decide on what is the best ceremony for you. I love to get to know my couplesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; stories, and to weave their individuality into a truly unique and memorable ceremony that fits them perfectly. For some that may mean following time-honoured traditions; for others it may mean a contemporary, sophisticated and modern theme, while for others again it may mean a laid back, informal family gathering on the beach or in the countryside.

Lets meet for a coffee! 07 3369 9853 trish.sargent101@gmail.com www.itsyourceremony.com.au

There may be children involved; parents and grandparents; you may have ten attendants or just one. Whatever you choose, the important thing is that your ceremony is truly reflective of you and what you are about. With my enthusiasm, creativity and my passion for people, I will ensure your day is smooth, beautiful, and absolutely memorable. Remember Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Your Ceremony!

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Cliff & S i n i k i w eâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Engagement Photographed by We Are Twine

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ow did he propose? On the 13th of July 2015 (which was also his birthday), I took Cliff out for a birthday dinner. Little did I know that this day would go down in our own love story book. He had planned with my friends to decorate my house and create a romantic space for him to pop the question. He then made up an excuse as to why we had to pass by my house before going to drop him off at his house. When I opened the door to my house I did not recognise it. I walked into a picturesque setting with a small round table and two chairs and rose petals everywhere. He then led me to the table and popped the question... I guess the rest is history. What does marriage mean to you? To Cliff and I marriage is a sacramental covenant among three people; Cliff, myself and God. It is a promise of sacrificial love and lifelong commitment where troubles and differences cannot break it. Marriage to us is not self seeking but is a selfless act of loving each other unconditionally. Do you have a theme for your wedding in mind? What about colours? Our wedding colours are peach and teal Wedding dress ideas? I love mermaid style dresses with lace and sparkle. Dream wedding location? Manor, Estate or Castle Honeymoon Ideas? Exotic island Did you have an engagement party? Yes Who was your photographer? Amanda from We Are Twine First date? She says: When he took me out to Restaurant Two (however he had not asked me to be his girlfriend). He says: When we went to the Gold Coast and went to Infinity and had lunch The thing you love most about each other? She says: His willingness to always show me acts of love even when he is not particularly happy with me. He says: She is the most kind hearted and loving person i know. She is very patient (especially with me). She genuinely loves and cares about people The proposal? He says: I was very nervous even though I knew there was no way she could say no to me. LOL. On wedding planning? He says: Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy, whatever she says. She says: It is going good so far. I think I have planned everything through Pinterest now it is just getting them. The big day? We are planning our wedding for the 17th of December 2016. We hope it will be great.

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WA N T TO S EE YO U RS ELF I N H ER E? S u b m i t yo u r w e d d i n g a n d e n g a g e m e n t s h o o t s t o B r i s b a n e W e d d i n g W e e k ly

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PUBLISHER Britta Marsh ACTING EDITOR Madison Bryers EDITORIAL TEAM Jessica West Isobel Young ART DIRECTION Madison Bryers Copyright Brisbane Wedding Weekly 2015. All rights reserved. Please do not publish articles and images without prior written permission. ADVERTISE For advertising opportunities within the magazine or on our website or blog, please contact madison@brisbaneweddingweekly.com.au brisbanewedding weekly.com.au hello@brisbaneweddingweekly.com.au

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