WIDE BAY | BURNETT | DISCOVERY COAST ANNUAL 2022 Real BRIDES Be inspired by five local weddings. 100LOCALvendors WHO'LL MAKE YOUR DAY WIN AN ISLAND getaway
• DISTILLERY • 22 COMMERCIAL ST, BUNDABERG • BOOKINGS PHONE 07 4151 0396 NO SMOKING WWW.KALKIMOON.COMFACILITY a venue with a difference CAPACITY 140 SEATED • LICENSED CRAFT BAR OUTDOOR GIN GARDEN • STAGE WITH IN HOUSE P.A
ON THE COVER: Paul and Natasha Kovacs were married at Riverside Retreat in Bundaberg, December 2021. Cover and contents photography contributed by Hannah Leneve Photography. READ MORE ABOUT THE CRUSH BRIDAL COVER WEDDING OF PAUL AND NATASHA KOVACS ON PAGE 38.
449659122765386417 LET’S GET WED! Need a place to start? We’ve pulled together a month-by-month wedding checklist REAL LOVE - BURNETT Rustic Charm for country couple: Chris and Julie REAL LOVE – FRASER COAST You are my sunshine: Adam and Erin REAL LOVE – COVER WEDDING Home is where the heart is: Paul and Natasha SAVE THE DATE Crush Wedding Spectacular and Fraser Coast Wedding Industry Showcase REAL LOVE - BUNDABERG Sprinkle of special sentiments: Joel and Sarah REAL LOVE – DISCOVERY COAST Beach escape worth the wait: Matt and Kim PRETTY LITTLE THINGS Beautiful touches from local suppliers to add to your special day HONEYMOON HIDEAWAYS Romantic in-Region getaways that will have you falling in love all over again
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Crush Bridal is published by Crush Communications Pty Ltd (ABN 94 640 941 475) PO Box 2426 Bundaberg Qld 4670. The information contained within Crush Bridal (and other associated platforms) is given in good faith and obtained from sources believed to be accurate. The views expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher. Crush Bridal and its Directors, NJ Sorbello and LC Statham, will not be held liable for any loss or damage of any kind incurred as a result of the use or reliance on any information, advertisement, opinion, advice, errors or omissions contained herein. Use of such material shall be at your own risk. All material sent to Crush Bridal (including photos, emails and social media comments) will be assumed to be publishable, unless marked ‘not for publication’. We do not necessarily label content to distinguish between editorial and advertorial. Crush Bridal is printed by Printcraft Qld Pty Ltd; Hamilton Qld 4007. All material published in Crush Bridal is subject to copyright. Accordingly, all rights are reserved and no part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written permission of the publisher. Retail products advertised and promoted in Crush Bridal are subjectto availability, while stocks last. Colours shown may differ from products available due to the printing process. Please see our website for full Terms andConditions, including those relating to competitions and giveaways.
NIKKI SORBELLO & LARINE STATHAM-BLAIR Special thanks: Paul Beutel, Rowena Preddy, Tara Jacobsen, Dani Ballinger, Partriece Lyons, Alice Thompson and Carly Clarke for planting the Bridal seed.
welcome.
Celebrating love in the Wide Bay, Burnett and Discovery Coast
LARINE STATHAM & NIKKI SORBELLO. CRUSH MAGAZINE. Weddings are back in a big way! After years of uncertainty, delays and changing plans, brides can again confidently plan the amazing celebrations they envision. While the COVID-19 pandemic has created a lot of challenges, it has also reminded us of what we have just outside our front door. When it comes to wedding destinations, what our Region offers is unparalleled. Perfect yearround climate. Stunning backdrops of industrial, coastal, river, rustic, traditional, country or garden. One of the largest food-bowls in the country. In the bridal space we’ve been a hidden gem – but no longer. Whether it is for 1000 guests or 10, Crush Bridal shows couples they don’t need to look further than their own backyard for their wedding. We shine a light on the vendors and suppliers working behind the scenes to deliver your perfect wedding day. What we have to offer locally shines in our Real Love Stories sprinkled through this first issue. Take inspiration from the styles, colours, looks, venues, photography and finer details. You can find more Real Love Stories and inspirational pieces on our website and social media. Brides-to- be can engage with each other through our Facebook community, Crush Bridal Insider.
If you are just getting started on your wedding planning journey, Crush Bridal is also an Online Directory, featuring the Region’s leading suppliers and vendors across 24 categories. Browse by region or category and mark your favourites – it’s the perfect place to begin your journey to the alter.
CONTACT US Email: hello@crushcomms.com.au Telephone: 0447 669 431 Studio: Palace Arcade, 10/133 Bourbong St, Bundaberg Postal Address: PO Box 2426, Bundaberg Qld 4670 www.crushcommunications.com.auwww.crushmagazine.com.aucrushbridal.com.au
PRIZE 3 Blend Your Own Rum Experience for two people, valued at $500. Entries Close Monday, February 13, 2023. Winner will be drawn and notified by email and social media on Valentine’s Day (Tuesday, February 14, 2023). Terms and Conditions apply. Visit crushbridal.com.au for details.
PARTRIECE LYONS SALES ASSISTANT "My favourite thing about weddings is seeing the reaction of the groom when he sees his bride for the first time walking down the aisle, so touching. Brings a tear to the eye every time!"
PRIZE 1 Fraser Island Adventure package, valued at $900, featuring two nights’ resort hotel accommodation, daily breakfast, transfers and a full-day ranger guided 4WD tour.
PAUL BEUTEL “ThePHOTOGRAPHERthingIloveabout photographing weddings is that, despite some little stresses, you’re working with people on one of the happiest days of their lives. You get to meet so many more people than you would sitting in an office, working 9am to 5pm.”
WIN
DANI BALLINGER EDITORIAL ASSISTANT “I love the anticipation weddings bring, the waiting for the bride, watching the groom hold back the nerves and that pure emotion of joy everyone in the room is feeling. Give me any reason to celebrate love, get dressed up and dance the night away.”
PUBLIC RELATIONS | STRATEGIC ENGAGEMENT | MARKETING
LARINE STATHAM-BLAIR
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF “We planned our casual Bundaberg bush and beach wedding celebration while living in Darwin and Brisbane. Our guests travelled from around the world and made a holiday of it. Finally, they understood why we call this Region home.” “This photo was taken 16-years ago at the horse stables in what was the Bundaberg Showgrounds. I love living where I was married, as lovely memories flood back every time I drive past the church, reception venue and photo locations.”
We’re celebrating the launch of Crush Bridal by partnering with Kingfisher Bay Resort, Lady Musgrave Experience and Bundaberg Rum to give readers the chance to win an island getaway or world famous distillery experience. To enter, submit your details at crushbridal.com.au. By entering you’ll be subscribing to our Crush Bridal Insider e-newsletter, containing Real Love Stories, inspiration, local tips, tricks, hacks and more.
PROUD PUBLISHER OF CRUSH BRIDAL
TARA JACOBSEN GRAPHIC DESIGNER “Our Region is the best place for weddings, whether you’re looking for a secluded beach on the coast, rustic canefield in the country or a sparkling bridge in the city … everything is covered!”
PRIZE 2 Lady Musgrave Experience gift voucher, valued at $900.
TO DO Lock in videographer Hire a planner/stylist (if required) Draft guest list Pinterest boards filling with ideas and inspo? During the next few months your ideas will come together. It’s a good idea to lock in your outfits ten to six months in advance. So gather your bridal party for some seriously fun shopping! While you’re there, schedule fittings right up until the big day. Start thinking about your reception menu. Does your venue have on-site catering, or will you be sourcing your own? Contact mobile caterers and lock them in - food trucks are so on-trend right now (hello pizza and Meetice-cream).with local celebrants and check their availability. Finding the right celebrant is important, as you’ll both want to feel comfortable with them. They’re the one who will guide you through the official process and be the friendly face standing at the alter to help calm on-the-day nerves.
Now is the time to think about the type of wedding you and your fiancé would like to have and set some realistic expectations around your budget. List the must-have essentials – perhaps there’s a photographer you’ve dreamt of using or a venue you’ve talked about forever. Break your budget down. What are you willing to splurge on and what is not as important? While you’re having this discussion, get an idea of when you would like to have the wedding. Consider the seasons and decide on a location. Now is also the time to talk about who you want in your bridal party. TO DO Set budget Set an ideal date and decide on location Discuss bridal party 13 MONTHS BEFORE Budget all set? Great, first things first: ask your bride tribe and potential groomsmen to share your special day. Get creative and come up with some seriously cute ways to ask them! Set your theme; do you want black tie or boho beach? Start a Pinterest board to collate all your ideas in the one place (make sure you follow Crush Bridal, for some gorgeous local inspo). Research some venues, gather quotes and ask lots of questions. Often the most sortafter photographers are booked well in advance, so if there’s someone you had in mind now is the time to check their availability. Once you have your venue and photographer secured, your date is set! TO DO Ask bridal party Decide on a theme Set up Pinterest board to collate all your inspo Secure venue/church/location Secure photographer 12 MONTHS BEFORE If you want to have professional videography done, ask your photographer for recommendations. There may be someone they’ve enjoyed collaborating with previously. If budget allows and you need to take some pressure off, engage with a local planner/stylist. They can assist with a range of tasks, from managing budget, liaising with vendors, styling and planning to on-the-day co-ordination. Draft a guest list, you’ll need to have a rough idea of numbers to take to your caterer for quotes and menu planning.
Caught your breath from the excitement of the engagement? You’re probably wondering where to start.
You’ve said yes, now all you can think about is planning your special day. Contrary to popular belief, wedding planning does not have to be stressful! We’ve broken down a traditional engagement of 12-14 months to help you enjoy preparing for one of the best days of your lives.
wed
Month-by-month checklist to keep your wedding planning on track
TO DO Find, buy, order ‘the dress’ Schedule fittings Bridesmaid Groomaccessories/shoesdresses/andgroomsmen suits Secure mobile caterer if needed Discuss menu/catering options Meet and book celebrant Hire band, DJ or other entertainment 14 MONTHS BEFORE 10 MONTHS BEFORE
LET’S GET
TO DO Cake
Setaccommodationdateforhens/bucks
TO DO Brunch with your bride tribe
TO DO Arrange hair/beauty appointments Meet with florist and choose flowers
Beauty appointments, spray tan, HaveGroommani/pedihaircut/shaveabagwithallyour wedding day essentials ready to go, with shoes, dress and jewellery organised in once place YAY! Everything should be prepped and organised. Missed anything? Don’t stress yourself, you’re only human, no one will notice! Have a champagne brunch with your bride tribe, spend some time with loved ones, check into your night-before accommodation (if using) and end the day by getting a good night sleep before the big day!
Arrange night before and night of Purchase wedding rings 3-4
Chat with your regular hair stylist and beauty therapist (or find new ones, if need be) and start working towards your hair, brow and skin goals. Contact florists and show them all the pins from your inspo board and chat all things flowers.
Finalise guest list Arrange gift registry/charity donation or wishing well Design, order invitations and send save the dates 5-6 MONTHS BEFORE Be prepared with what you want for your wedding cake and lock in your baker. If you have a particular cake maker you want to work with, they may need more notice than this. Order, hire or purchase any other decorations, and arrange who’ll be doing the set up.
TO DO Organise venue walk through and do a rehearsal with bridal party if need be.
The big-ticket items should be locked in by now and anything that’s not should be finalised this month. Send official invitations, include accommodation recommendations for guests who will be travelling and create a spreadsheet for rsvps and dietary requirements. Organise run sheets for the day and music for band/DJ. TO DO Send official invites and order thank you Choosecardsyour ceremony music and reception playlist and send to band/DJ Get excited 2 MONTHS BEFORE Arrange your hair and make-up trial on the day of your hens/bucks, why waste the look with nowhere to go? Have a dress/suit fitting so they’ll be ready to pick up next month. TO DO Hair and make up trial Hens/bucks events Dress fitting for final alterations Purchase bride tribe thank you gifts One month means your big day will be here before you know it! This month you will be confirming everyone knows where they need to be and when. Consider paying your vendors now so they aren’t chasing you up the week of the wedding. Make time for a quick date night to finalise all the on-the-day details and settle some pre-wedding nerves. TO DO Pay all vendors in full Date night with fiancé Follow up with any guests who haven’t rsvp’d
1MONTH BEFORE 1WEEK BEFORE DAY BEFORE 8-9 MONTHS BEFORE 13
TO DO Hair colour refresh Pick up dress/suits Pack for honeymoon (and other nights you’ll be away from home) All the last-minute little things can finally be done. Run over your checklist, arrange a rehearsal with your bridal party and have a day of pampering for all your beauty appointments.
TransportDressDecorationsfitting Reassess budget Pre and post wedding events (this can be delegated to parents, siblings or friends) Honeymoon arrangements
These days brides are recognising the important men in their lives, particularly if they are close to their brother or a childhood friend. Some grooms will include their fiancé’s brother just as brides are choosing their future sisters-in-law, but there’s nothing to say a bride’s crew is a ladies’ only affair.
Read the Real Love story of Drew and Rachel McAullay (pictured) at crushbridal.com.au
PhotographyMareeNinaCREDIT:PHOTO bride tribe
HOW TO PICK YOUR
The history of bridesmaids is surrounded by tradition and myth. Originally bridesmaids were thought to have been hired help who quite literally served the bride’s needs, provided protection, and witnessed the marriage. Today, choosing your tribe is symbolic of the special relationships you have with your dearest friends or family. But knowing who to choose isn’t always simple. start with the heart Begin with your non-negotiable family members or friends and go from there. It may be sisters, childhood friends, workmates or even your partner’s family. But list who you can’t possibly be without and choose those who will bring joy and unconditional support before you consider those you ‘should’ choose. practicality matters Your sweet younger sister or oldest best friend might be the obvious sentimental choice for your maid-of-honour, but your wing lady (or man) needs to be reliable and available to help plan and provide the practical support you need. Consider where they live, what other responsibilities they have, and your expectations of their role to help decide if they are the right choice. odds or evens Choosing your bride tribe might depend on the number of groomsmen or attendants your partner wishes to choose. If your partner only wants to include a couple of mates, you’ll need to decide if you want even numbers across the bridal party or if there are girlfriends you just can’t get married without. leading men
rustic charm FOR COUNTRY COUPLE’S SPECIAL DAY 17 JULIE & CHRIS Burnett SeptemberRegion2021 real love story
Julie enjoyed the morning of the wedding with her maid of honour Therese, who has played a very important role in her life. The pair did their own make up at home, after having their hair done at Chris Cross Hair in Kingaroy. They wore jewellery from Featherdale Earrings, that were handmade for the day. Created from amazing feathers and so easy to deal with from start to finish, Julie said “they were the perfect final touch”.
Julie’s dress was from Kissed By The Bride in Caboolture. A real country girl at heart, in true Julie style she wore a heel down the aisle but later changed into her western boots. Chris wore a cowboy hat from Mavericks in Rockhampton to match the vest, both special gifts from Julie for the special day. He wore them with a crisp white shirt, blue wash denim and classic Craftsman boots.
When Julie Jones moved back to the Kingaroy Region and began work at the local peanut factory, it didn’t take long for fellow worker Chris to catch her eye. Before she knew it, Julie had sent off a social media friend request and their courtship blossomed. The no-fuss couple’s engagement was in keeping with their simple style. Julie took Chris to the jeweller to show him a piece she had her eye on for Christmas. It had already been sold, but another bridal set grabbed their attention. While marriage wasn’t the reason for Chris to purchase the ring, Julie surprised him by saying “well, let’s get married”. In an intimate ceremony surrounded by their closest family and friends, the couple married in September, 2021. Initially Julie and Chris thought about celebrating on their property, just outside of Kingaroy, until Chris discovered The Washpool - a highly sought-after country venue that suited their style perfectly. With sweeping views in every direction, the venue provided the perfect backdrop for Julie and Chris’ romantic country wedding.
PHOTO CREDIT: CRH Photography
“It was relaxed, intimate and absolutely perfect, exactly how I imagined it to be,” Julie said. 19
Chris had his son Tom by his side as Julie walked down the aisle to their favourite song Never Want To Be Without You by Ray Scott and later had a playlist of all their favourite country dance songs for the reception.
dream team
The day came together with the help of Chris’ family, who travelled from afar. They all pitched in to decorate, posies of flowers were made from Julie and Chris’ garden, blossoms were spotted in cowboy boots and the barn was decorated with touches of dusty pinks and creamy blush tones to really capture their romantic country love.
photographer CRH Photography, dress Kiss the Bride, hair Chris Cross Hair Studio, catering Wozza’s Camp Oven Diner, jewellery Featherdale Earrings
They gazed at the stars in the open sky as guests danced under the fairy lights and relished in the chitter chatter of conversations around them, enjoying that they had brought everyone together to celebrate their love.
For more Real Love stories, visit crushbridal.com.au
WIDE BAY BURNETT DISCOVERY COAST ANNUAL 2022 Real BRIDESBe inspired by fivelocal weddings. 100LOCALvendors WHO’LL MAKEYOUR DAY WIN AN ISLAND getaway share your love story proposals and engagement weddings, lasting love and anniversaries TO BE FEATURED SUBMIT YOUR STORY ONLINE crushbridal.com.au
You’re busy planning the main event, but don’t forget to enjoy all the minor celebrations along the way – cue the hen’s party and buck’s night! goodbye single life Pre-wedding celebrations are a timehonoured tradition. For the groom it dates back to the fifth century when a rowdy feast was held in order to salute the groom to be. Hen’s parties didn’t appear on the radar until much later, shooting to popularity with the rise of feminism in the 1980s. Are they still considered a celebration of the end of single life? Of course not! It’s obvious you became unavailable when you stopped ‘swiping right’. Nowadays it’s just another good reason to celebrate. LET THE GOOD TIMES ROLL know what you want When it comes to planning your socalled ‘last hurrah’, rest assured it’s unlikely chocolate fountains will be smashed or giant cookies punched like in the hit film Bridesmaids. If you’re lucky, nor will your day be like The Hangover, where the wolfpack wake up with a baby in the closet and a Sumatran tiger locked in the hotel bathroom. If your crew do roll like this, best to avoid having your hen’s and buck’s the night before! While you can assign the majority of the planning to the bridal party, you and your fiancé do play a role in who gets invited. It’s also worth setting a few boundaries around your expectations for the event. This allows your trusted team to set the tone of the day around things you both enjoy and have a genuine interest in.
for the gents The options are limitless when it comes to planning something for the lads –anything sport orientated or outdoorsy are popular choices. Think golf, barefoot bowls, fishing, camping, bowling, escape rooms, laser tag or paintball. Fraser Jet has jetskis, kayaks, standup paddleboards and surry bikes available for hire. For something more personalised, book in for a Blend Your Own Rum Experience (pictured centre left) at Bundaberg Rum. Stop by Ballistic Bargara Brewhouse (pictured top right) in the Bundaberg CBD for a few craft bevvies and pizza to top off the night. for the ladies Sip champagne, graze the day away and spend some quality time with the favourite women in your life. Make a weekend of it and hire an Airbnb or book a glamping retreat at Splitters Farm. Day spas, high teas, cooking classes or a workshop for the ladies will tick all the right boxes. Book a private party with Neon Loft (pictured centre right) and strut your stuff with your girlfriends. Giggle as you learn a few pole fitness techniques. Relax and unwind with a soundbath by Sacred Sounds or book in for a floral workshop at Little Cottage Blooms (pictured top left) in Bundaberg or Floral Design by Lily in Agnes Water. mix it up! Gone are the days where you have to do anything traditionally – including stag events! Why not consider having your events on the same night so you can meet up at the end for a combined celebration. Or mix it all in together from the get-go! Known as Huck’s Nights, Jack and Jill parties or Sten Nights, this is quickly becoming a popular option or engagement party alternative. For a budget option go for a low-key barbeque at home, with a few lawn games and good company. Hire a duo to play some live music throughout the afternoon and have Grazing Co Bundaberg come in to set up an epic grazing table that’ll wow your guests.
Seb Martinez and Jamie-Lee Fehr were engaged in Agnes Water in December, 2021.
When you are in the love bubble as a newlyengaged couple, sharing your happy news may be all you can think about – and why shouldn’t you? While engagement parties used to be part and parcel of wedding celebrations, couples are giving a lot more consideration to adding this timehonoured tradition to their to-do list. Here are Crush Bridal’s top reasons to celebrate or wait for the main event! you just want to celebrate Sometimes a beautiful social announcement just isn’t enough and you want to celebrate! Think of it as a good introduction to wedding planning. you are having a long engagement If you are taking your time to plan (and save) for your wedding, you might like to get the party started early and celebrate your news with family and friends. you are having a small wedding Big or small, there will always be people that don’t make the wedding guest list. An engagement party is a great way to include some of the additional people you want to celebrate with (think work colleagues and extended family). your families haven’t met Whether it be because of a whirlwind romance, distance or you simply haven’t gotten around to it yet, an engagement party is a great way to get your families together to meet before the big day. you don’t want a fuss Not all brides and grooms want to be the centre of attention! Feel free to fast forward right past this party. Or maybe you just don’t want the big to-do or formal affair. A backyard barbecue, pub catch up or small and simple dinner party are great alternatives. save the cash An engagement party is an additional expense. So if you want to keep your savings for the big day or honeymoon, feel free to skip the pre-celebration. Or book a restaurant and ask guests to cover their meal in lieu of gifts. time is of the essence If you are having a short engagement or you don’t know how you will fit in planning an engagement party as well as a wedding, cross the engagement party off your to-do list and focus on what is important to you as a couple. Read Seb and Jamie-Lee’s engagement story at crushbridal.com.au engagement party SHOULD YOU ADD AN TO YOUR TO-DO LIST?
PhotographyKirkCassandraCREDIT:PHOTO
There’s a little boutique with ornate frontage on Bourbong Street in Bundaberg that beckons you inside. The inviting street facade is the first sign that this is anything but another basic transacting business. Inside, antique cabinets, busts and décor give the store a homey feel that immediately puts you at ease.
• It’s unromantic but don’t be afraid to talk budget. A nice diamond, regardless of size, will look lovely to everyone’s eye.
It’s a responsibility that owner Kate Marland does not take lightly. “Blokes come into the shop in their work gear. We take the time to learn all about them and their fiancé to help them find the perfect engagement ring,” Kate said. “We put ashes and snippets of hair in lockets for people in times of grief and can remake jewellery for people who have separated. It’s humbling to play a small part, creating symbolic timepieces, for some of life’s most momentous occasions.”
• Rings can be remodelled or upgraded in the future when style, taste or circumstancesfinancialchange.
PHOTO CREDIT: Paul Beutel
The people at Warner’s Fine Jewellery have helped countless families mark life’s most precious moments with special keepsakes. They’re entrusted with heirlooms and remodels, from cradle to altar to grave.
Kate considers herself lucky to be carrying on her family craft. Her great grandfather Bert Warner was an expert watch maker and violinist who built some of the big clocks in Sydney and London. Her grandfather Douglas was a managing director at Prouds in Sydney, before it became a chain store, and her father Michael is a master jeweller. “I’ve been playing in Dad’s workshop, amongst his trinkets, my entire life,” she said. “I love his hardworking hands and calloused flat thumbs, and now my three sons enjoy spending time in the workshop too.” Much of the jewellery at Warner’s is designed by Kate. If it hasn’t been handcrafted in one of their three workshops in Bundaberg, Hervey Bay or Brisbane, it has been sourced from other small, family-owned Australian jewellers. “These relationships are so important to us and ensure every piece we sell is quality.”
Kate’s tips
• Why not select a coloured stone? Not all engagement rings need be diamonds.
best friend Shine bright WARNERS FINE JEWELLERY 0778www.warnersfinejewellery.com.auBourbongStreet,Bundaberg41525774 DIAMONDS ARE A GIRL’S 23
• If you are worried you’ll choose the wrong thing, buy the stone and let your fiancé select a design themselves.
It’s their skilful ability to combine old world styles with new trends that sets Warner’s Fine Jewellery apart. “Old-fashioned country service and workmanship are our hallmarks,” Kate said. “It is possible to own beautiful jewellery at any price point.”
Budgeting for your wedding might be the first time you’ve had real money talk with your partner. You might have different expectations for your day and families have always got a thing or two to say too! So how do you carve your own path and work together to have the day of your dreams while staying out of debt?
money talks Most people have an idea of their dream wedding day but knowing what funds you have available can be a reality check. Your first step is to speak with your partner about your priorities in life. Do you want a party to remember or is having money left over for travel or a house more important to you? Look at your combined finances to see what you can realistically put towards a wedding after you have paid off any outstanding debts or credit cards.
HOW TO PREPARE A WEDDING
Financial experts advise having a buffer or emergency fund to start married life. family matters Find out early on if your family is willing to contribute to the budget and if they want to give a lump sum or pay for specific things. A financial gift might come with strings attached, like specific guests they want to invite. These conversations are tricky but need to be had early on. on the same page Research the different elements of your wedding to see what it’s estimated to cost. Most of the brides we spoke to said they used a spreadsheet to give them an overall picture of their wedding budget. Having a prioritised budget is helpful when speaking with suppliers and vendors who might have upgrades and add-ons to offer you. You’ll be able to confidently decline those things outside of your budget and move ahead with what matters to you. plan for extras It’s inevitable there will be hidden expenses or things you didn’t think of so make sure there is a buffer. And don’t forget to track that budget diligently. Things can blow out quickly and knowing your money is under control helps you focus on what’s really important—saying ‘I do’ to the love of your life. BUDGET mattersMONEY
THE OPULENCE www.theopulence.com.au/weddings
relatives occupied for you. Hiring a wedding planner will take away the stress and anxiety of planning, leaving you the time and space to sit back and enjoy your special day. You don’t have to have a huge wedding budget to employ a planner and you can be as involved or uninvolved in the process as you choose. In the romantic comedies, it’s always the rich folk that book a wedding planner, but it doesn’t have to cost you the world. A savvy and experienced planner will be able to work within your set budget to achieve the day you dream of, including their fees. This comes down to strong vendor/planner relationships, expert negotiation skills and their ability to prioritise key elements of your day, without overspending on the details that you don’t really care about.
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Wedding planners are like unicornsrare, often sparkly and absolute magic if you believe in them. But what do wedding planners actually do? How much do they cost and do you really need one for your wedding day?
Broadly, a wedding planner is a person you hire to assist you with planning your wedding. Each planner is different, but generally they will help you book vendors, with budgeting for your wedding, designing the aesthetic of your day and co-ordinating everyone to ensure that it all comes together seamlessly. From organised brides and grooms to those less prepared, a wedding planner can help just about any kind of couple. When it comes to planning your wedding day, they think of everything! Your planner will have weather contingency plans in place, schedules for your vendors to assist with set up and they may even keep those ‘helpful’ Plan it!
PhotographerGunnJessicaCREDIT:PHOTO
WHY HIRE A wedding planner?
So how do you hire one? Google planners in your region and the location where you’re getting married. Find someone you like the look of. You want to choose a planner that makes you feel relaxed and confident. Trust your first impressions and make sure they offer you a total cost for their planning services and a set payment schedule. Ideally, you should book your planner 1218 months out, but it’s never too late! Carmel Thomson is a wedding planner, stylist and co-ordinator.
Top four looks for your wedding YOUR DAYstyle SabrinaLauristonPhotography CRHPhotography JenniferMcCuePhotography NinaMareePhotography
Designing your dream wedding almost always starts with choosing your theme and style. Your theme not only sets the tone for your day and helps with making style choices, but it’s the perfect way to capture your unique personalities and celebrate what makes your relationship fabulous. Remember to stay flexible though. Your venue, the season and the number of guests all contribute to the feel of your wedding and it’s okay to step outside the box and use your theme as a guide. Here are the top trends we’re seeing in our stunning Wide Bay, Burnett and Discovery Coast Regions. traditional/classic Nothing says timeless love more than a traditional wedding ceremony and classic style. Traditional weddings often include a religious ceremony followed by a formal sit-down dinner. Time honoured traditions of being walked down the aisle, formal speeches, cutting of the cake, a bridal waltz and bouquet toss often feature. Traditional brides typically choose elegant gowns with their dashing groom dressed in a suit and tie, or even a tuxedo. While trends come and go, traditional weddings embody ageless style and romantic rituals that have stood the test of time. coastal vibes With kilometres of stunning coastline and even a few islands to boast, our Region is spoilt for choice when it comes to planning a beach wedding. And your guests will no doubt be jumping at the chance for a subtropical holiday along the Southern Great Barrier Reef. Beach weddings are relaxed and often include a ceremony on the sand followed by a reception nearby. Whether you go barefoot, choose to decorate with arbours and flowers, or let the beach speak for itself, one thing is guaranteed—your backdrop and photos will be swell. If your ceremony is on the sand or in a public park by the water, check what permits are required by the local council (read more on page 32). rustic country With a range of stunning country venues, it’s never been easier to plan a rustic wedding that embraces the great outdoors and the array of local, fresh farm-to-table produce so easily available in the our Region. Rustic country weddings often involve an outdoor ceremony under a decorated arbour, and venues are increasingly offering outdoor receptions adored with festoon lights, long tables, shared grazing platters, natural centrepieces, and barn-style dance floors. Couples with an appetite for DIY design many of the details themselves.
Brimming with sentimental country charm, the chance for a sunset photoshoot and a first dance under the stars, it’s no wonder couples are in love with a rustic wedding for their special day.
vintage glam A vintage wedding often involves the hallmarks of a classic traditional wedding but harks to the glamour of yesteryear. With shimmer and shine, old world flair and a good dose of fun, vintage weddings feature historical touches and often reference the 1920s or ’40s. Hair and make-up, accessories, lacy gowns, and classic cars all reflect the theme. Couples often break from tradition to add ontrend modern touches around flowers, handmade bonbonnieres, seating plans and naked cakes. Our Region also features an array of heritage buildings to set the scene for an iconic photoshoot.
sunshine YOU ARE MY 27 ADAM & ERIN Fraser Coast Region December 2021 real love story
PHOTO CREDIT: Jennifer McCue Photography
Planning their Hervey Bay wedding from the Gold Coast while their home was being built could have easily become a headache, but the process was a breeze for the kind-hearted couple thanks to the local vendors they selected.
Erin wore a special brooch that had been passed down through generations of her mum’s family. Adam wore cufflinks with his family’s Scottish crest to match that worn by his brother and father. “Our cake was served on silver platters that belonged to my late grandfather, using Adam’s grandmother’s serving cutlery,” Erin said. One of the most special moments they shared on the day involved Erin’s assistance dog of seven years, Lacey.
Bright, relaxed and deeply sentimental.
Adam, a foster care case worker, and Erin, a speech pathologist, met studying psychology on the Gold Coast in 2017. The pair bought a block of land in Hervey Bay, where Adam proposed by surprising Erin with a picnic and “got the knee dirty”.
Adam and Erin Mills’ wedding in December last year perfectly reflected their personalities and relationship.
Surrounded by sunflowers, colourful ribbons and fairy lights, the pair exchanged vows they wrote themselves at the Bush Chapel in the Hervey Bay Botanic Gardens and utilised family heirlooms.
“Having her there was just like having another member of the family with us,” Erin said. “At the end of the ceremony, after the kiss and those sorts of things, Lacey went up and put her head straight on Adam’s knee, as if to say: ‘you’re my real dad now – it’s official’. She’d given us her blessing.”
Submit your Real Love story at crushbridal.com.au dream team photographer Jennifer McCue, videographer Lifetime In A Day Films, caterer Fraser Coast Woodfired Pizzas, ceremony Now & Forever Weddings & Events at Hervey Bay Botanic Gardens Bush Chapel, transport Hervey Bay Kombi, make up Jade Sheree
“Whenever we came up to look at our house as it was being built, we’d grab a coffee on a Sunday morning with the Kombi crew to get their advice and chat about how planning was coming along,” she said. “We didn’t meet our photographer until the day of the wedding, but we had video calls and emails with Jennifer. We really appreciated everyone’s willingness to engage via distance. “Their knowledge of the Region made it possible. They liaised directly with our bridal party to make everything happen behind the scenes for Adam and I. Everyone was so flexible to accommodate my wheelchair and dietary requirements, including our caterers Fraser Coast Woodfired Pizzas.
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Erin said they wanted a casual day to avoid “getting caught up in the logistics”, putting trust in their vendors and delegating tasks to their bridal party and inner circle.
“It really felt like the vendors were part of the family too.” Adam said they chose to have a small wedding of about 40 guests so they could talk to everyone and spend money on other priorities. “When we were looking for a venue for the ceremony and found the Bush Chapel, we were blown away by how affordable it was to hire such a beautiful Council space. My mum is a florist in Tamworth so she decorated our new backyard for our reception,” he said. They redirected the venue savings to a videographer to record the day and stream the ceremony for family and friends who were unable to attend due to COVID-19 border closures. And Erin booked Hervey Bay Kombis as a surprise for Adam, who is a massive Volkswagen fan.
“Most of our wedding guests hadn’t been to the Region before, so it was great they could all make a holiday of it too and see firsthand why we’ve decided to call the Fraser Coast home.”
Lots of things can, and do, go wrong with weddings. We all know we shouldn’t sweat the small stuff or let the little things ruin our day. One misfortune that can be hard to forget is disappointing photographs. With a little bit of research and careful planning, you can ensure your pictures accurately reflect your precious memories. style First and foremost, you’ve got to love your photographer’s style. Every snapper has their own signature trademarks, so make sure you ask to view lots of their portfolio before signing on the dotted line. local The obvious benefits are cost savings on travel and accommodation, but they also provide advice on great locations and scenes for your bridal party pics. They can even recommend other vendors they work well with. Wherever you hold your ceremony and reception, it’s highly likely they’re familiar with the venue. They’ve photographed countless other couples at the venue and know all the best lighting, angles and vantage points to deliver the best images.
WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN BOOKING YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER
Picture Perfect
meal Before the wedding, make sure your caterer will feed your photographer. Being a photographer is exhausting. They are on their feet for most of the day, without time for a proper break. optional extras Ask your photographer whether their packages include add-ons, such as canvasses, photo books, prints or mini sessions. For example, you may like to put your hair and make-up trial to good use with a pre-wedding shoot (see page 55). Read our extended version at crushbridal.com.au
personality You will be spending a lot of time with this person on your wedding day, so it’s important the three of you ‘click’. The last thing you want is someone who is irritating, bossy or makes you uncomfortable. Seek a photographer who puts you both at ease or makes you laugh. price Do not book your photographer based on their fees. Wedding photography is one thing you should never skimp on. Your wedding is just one day in your life, but photographs (and memories) last a lifetime. Your best friend’s cousin may be a great amateur photographer when they have plenty of time in a controlled environment, but can they quickly capture intimate moments as they happen?
There’s a common belief that everything costs more when it’s for a wedding. Whether it’s true or not, your wedding day needn’t cost the earth. There are plenty of ways to save without sacrificing what you want. Take the ceremony for example. Some of the most picturesque settings across the Wide Bay, Burnett and Discovery Coast Regions are free or inexpensive to hire. These gardens, reserves, lookouts, beaches, historic homesteads, town halls and bush chapels are lovingly maintained and tended to by our local governments. With near-perfect year-round climate and weather, why not consider walking down the aisle overlooking a beach vista, surrounded by rustic bushland or manicured Oriental-themed gardens, or under a heritage arbour or rotunda? South Burnett Regional Council, Fraser Coast Regional Council and Bundaberg Regional Council have teamed up with Crush Bridal to create a special online Wedding Guide to help couples plan their big day. SAY ‘I DO’ IN THE great outdoors! Download it! Our free digital Wedding Guide to council parks, gardens and facilities is available at crushbridal.com.au PICTURED: Glen and AmyNicollatHinklerHouse Memorial Museum P.HOTO C RED I KT: ont s Phot o ghpary
Tucked away down an industrial siding is an event venue with a difference. Don’t be fooled by Kalki Moon Distilling Company’s unassuming, humble exterior. Heavy chains heave open large roller doors to reveal a wonderous, open space filled with beautifully scented oak barrels, a rustic bar and a gleaming copper still. Flanked by a gin garden that’s lined with magnolia trees, this distillery cellar door is uniquely charming. If it’s good, old-fashioned country hospitality you’re looking for, Kalki Moon owners Rick and Kylie Prosser offer that in spades. They can provide the space for an elaborate sit-down degustation dinner, stand-up cocktail function, or low-fuss food truck fun. They work with a range of local external caterers to bring your vision to life. The world-class, award-wining gins they’re so well known for are part of the package. But so too is their ever-growing, impressive array of liqueurs, vodkas, and rums. They proudly showcase and celebrate neighbouring artisan drink makers too; offering Ohana ciders, Moffatdale Ridge wines and Ballistic Bargara beers. Able the accommodate more than 100 guests, Kalki Moon’s top notch cellar door and gin garden includes a large stage and inhouse sound equipment, making it possible to host a band, DJ or string quartet for your engagement, hen’s party, bridal shower or special event.
PhotographyKirkCassandraCREDIT:PHOTO
Top notchVENUE WITH A DIFFERENCE
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Celebrate KALKI MOON DISTILLING COMPANY 22 Commercial Street, Bundaberg 07 4151 www.kalkimoon.com0396
PHOTOCREDIT: Scribbly Inc Photography
When we first move in together, many of us test the suitability of our new mate by sharing responsibility for a house plant, followed by a goldfish before progressing to a feline or canine. It isn’t uncommon for our pets to evolve from four-legged friend to much loved fur baby. So it stands to reason that many of us can’t imagine saying ‘I do’ without involving ALL those who are nearest and dearest to us. Not every venue or location will allow pets, but there are still plenty of ways for your fur baby to be part of your special day. Whether your animal friend is a cat, dog, horse, reptile or even a pig, here are a few pet-friendly wedding ideas. make them part of your bridal party Your pet will look adorable in a bowtie, tuxedo, dress or flower garland. Invest in a special collar, leash or halter. Have them stand beside the groom at the alter or walk you down the aisle. Welltrained pets also make excellent ring bearers, with the right pillow accessory tied to their back.
puppy love 5 WAYS TO INCLUDE PETS IN YOUR WEDDING PHOTO
have them witness your marriage Just because an animal can’t sign their name and won’t be formally recognised as a witness, it doesn’t mean they can’t give their blessing with an inky paw print on your wedding certificate. use them as inspiration Have an illustration of your furry friend created for use on your invitations, napkins, favours, signage, confectionary, cake topper or embroidery on your dress hem, shirt cuff or pocket square (think Peter Alexander’s signature dachshund). You can even print and cut out their face to use as a fun photobooth prop. don’t own a pet, but love animals?
There are plenty of ways to involve creatures great and small for a bit of wow factor. Head out on the water to Fraser Island, Lady Elliot Island or Lady Musgrave Island to share your special day with humpback whales, manta rays or loggerhead turtles. Hold your reception at Splitters Farm, where you can cuddle a baby goat or alpaca. Feed feathery friends at Flying High Bird Sanctuary at Apple Tree Creek, or wrap a python around your shoulders at Snakes Downunder. give back In lieu of traditional gifts, why not ask your guests to make a donation to a local animal shelter, refuge or research organisation? ( Read more on this, page 58 ) Read the extended version at crushbridal.com.au CREDIT: Julie Green Marriage Celebrant
Gone are the days when fruitcake was a non-negotiable part of the wedding reception. The past few decades have seen it slip off the menu almost entirely, as brides opt for a wide variety of cake and icing flavours. While wedding cake is still very much the norm for most couples, if cake isn’t normally your thing, why not think outside the cake box and opt for something completely quirky or unique. go for cheesecake A nod to the traditional, swap your cake for cheesecake for a different kind of dessert. opt for cheese Prefer savoury to sweet? Buy a few different sized wheels of your favourite cheeses. Decorate with ribbon, greenery or flowers and serve with a variety of crackers, pastes, honey and fruit. croquembouche Not a complete departure for a wedding dessert, the croquembouche not only looks stunning, but is easy to serve up to guests! tower power A dessert tower allows you to have a cake-like structure but provides almost endless options of what you can serve. These became popular with cupcakes, but consider macarons, doughnuts, individual desserts, cookies or fresh fruit. crepe cake If aesthetics is the main consideration for your wedding cake, then the crepe cake is for you. These look stunning on the cake table and taste pretty good too! ice cream cake You won’t find this one sitting out on a cake table, but you can still have your cake cutting moment. It adds a lot of fun and will no-doubt impress your guests. Just make sure you get the quantities right, as you won’t be able to send any pieces home!
wedding cake ALTERNATIVES TO TRADITIONAL 35
baby’s breath – Often understated, this flower is a popular choice to support feature flowers in bridal posies and as centrepiece fillers. But as a symbol of everlasting love, baby’s breath is fast becoming the main showstopper.
ranunculus –The large round blooms of the ranunculus, with its vibrant colours and layers of beautifully-ruffled petals, add a great dimension to dreamy boho bouquets. This flower embodies beauty and attractiveness.
Flowers can convey meaning through variety, colour or even the number per bouquet being gifted. A dozen red roses are a symbol of ‘true love’, whereas a single red rose is said to represent ‘love at first sight’.
flowers PhotographyMcCueJenniferCREDIT:PHOTO 37
sunflower – Big, bold and beautiful, sunflowers evoke joy and make everyone smile. Representing positivity, strength, admiration and loyalty, this is a great choice for a bright colour pop.
Many of us know the red rose symbolises romance, love, beauty and courage, white signifies purity and innocence and pink depicts joy and gratitude. calla lily – Originating from the Greek word calla, meaning beautiful, the calla lily is a traditional bridal choice. White means innocence and youth, yellow represents gratitude and pink signifies romance, love and appreciation.
THE LANGUAGE OF For centuries, when words or gestures have failed us, we have used flowers to express our emotions.
When it comes to choosing flowers for your wedding day, why not consider the significance of a flower and what it means to you, instead of focusing on colour and style alone. Infuse your individuality through your bridal bouquet and floral displays with some of the most romantic flowers. the rose – An easy front runner for most weddings, the rose is undoubtably one of the most romantic flowers.
peony – You can’t discuss flowers without considering the stunning peony. Around the world peony’s represent many different things, but in wedding bouquets are considered a symbol of prosperity, good luck, love and honour.
orchids – Delicate elegance and beauty, the white orchid features heavily at modern weddings, and nowadays there is a large variety of incredible colours to give that wow factor. Orchids indicate everlasting love, luxury, beauty and strength. dahlia – A perfect flower to express love, the dahlia shines on its own or amongst a variety of colourful blooms to make any bouquet outstanding. Representing commitment and a bond that lasts forever, it is an infinite reminder of the meaning of marriage.
HOMEWHEREIS the heart is RETURNING HOME FOR DESTINATION WEDDING PAUL & NATASHA Bundaberg Region December 2021 real love story
“Bundaberg has so much to offer. You’ve got Bargara and the beaches so close and the rustic and boho style of the bush as well. It’s such an eclectic spot to get married,” Natasha said. For Natasha, living in Townsville was not a barrier in planning their boho chic December 2021 wedding.
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“When you are going to a place that is familiar that helps. It just didn’t feel stressful to us at all,” Natasha said.
Natasha’s nan made the cake with some help from Elyce’s Cakes and the gorgeous bouquet of dried flowers was made by Natasha herself.
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“We did a lot of DIY, so it was only the big things we had to organise from afar, like the venue and the catering. Having Elegant Events do our decorating, styling and catering meant we only had to liaise with a few vendors. We also called on a lot of our friends and people we had gone to school with for hair and makeup and things like that, so it just took all the stress out of it.”
Once the preparations were in place, Natasha and Paul purposefully built-in free time leading up to the big day.
“We got back to Bundaberg about a week-and-a-half earlier than the wedding to finish any finer details, as we decided to do a whole weekend of activities. We had guests arriving from the Wednesday and we wanted to enjoy the time with all the people that travelled to be there with us,” she said.
When it came to planning their destination wedding, for Paul and Natasha Kovacs the location was simple – their hometown of Bundaberg.
Some of the individual touches Natasha added to the wedding was a photobooth created from her father’s old Mini Minor car and suitcases. Her dad also made the arbour where they said their vows, decorated and styled by Elegant Events.
Despite both growing up in Bundaberg, surprisingly the couple’s paths never crossed until after they had both left home.
“I really wanted to replicate an arrangement that Paul always gives me.
So I dried a bunch of flower bouquets that I had gotten for my birthday that year and pieced it together and hoped for the best. It turned out so beautifully and now decorates our home,” she said.
“Paul had joined the army and was posted in Townsville and I was doing performing arts in Sydney and we were both home for the Christmas holidays.
During some last-minute Christmas shopping we just saw each other across the crowded shopping centre. We had
“Paul’s massively into fishing and we’re always on the water, and we had planned to go fishing that weekend. A few of my girlfriends had convinced me to get my nails done and dress nice, which is not normally something I would do for fishing, but they said we should get some nice pictures together. “He definitely had a few helpers to pull it off, but I had no idea. When we got over there, some of his mates from work had already pre-set a beautiful picnic with a tee-pee he had hand made. Paul had pre-set our Go Pro to capture the whole thing and there was champagne, all right on the water.”
After having a long-distance romance for more than a year, Natasha moved to Townsville. “I was really lucky that I still had a performing arts agent in Sydney and a lot of my work was overseas in Asia, so it didn’t really matter too much where I was based at the time. And looking back it was the perfect spot to weather the storm when COVID-19 hit,” she said. After four years together, Paul got down on one knee in a beautifully planned proposal on Magnetic Island, off the coast of Townsville.
dream team
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41 some mutual friends and that night he added me on Facebook and sent me a message and it grew from there. It was all a bit kismet, actually.”
photographer Hannah Leneve Photography, videographer Damon Kelly Films, celebrant Rebecca Churchill, bridesmaid hair Cheryl Porter, makeup Amanda Gear Makeup Artistry, men’s suits Connor, venue Riverside Retreat, decorator and caterer Elegant Events, entertainment SJL Mobile DJ, wedding eve accommodation George’s Cottage
For more Real Love stories, visit crushbridal.com.au
PHOTO CREDIT: Hannah Leneve Photography
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TRANSPORT TO HAVE YOU
Unless you are getting ready at your venue or married in your backyard, you will need to arrange transport for your wedding day.
who needs transportation?
The style of transport is a minor detail that will bring a special touch to your day – especially for any car enthusiasts. Whether it be vintage, classic, sports or horse-drawn carriage, planning and pre-arranging your transport will ensure you all get the ceremony, photo locations and reception on time!
PHOTO CREDIT: Scribbly Inc Photography
Most people are happy to play a part in the couple’s happy day, so ask family and friends if they would like to be a driver and if they would mind using their car. This gives you the option of making sure transport is available for those who need it (think mum and dad), while only hiring special vehicles for the bridal party, or even just the bride and groom.
Think about who will be getting ready with you and how they will get to where they need to be. This includes the groom and his groomsmen. The bridesmaids will travel separately to the bride and her farther (or whoever is walking her down the aisle). You may also need to arrange transport for the groom’s parents and the bride’s mother. If you have flower girls and page boys, make sure you have arranged with their parents about how they will be getting from location to location. what is your time frame? Do you need to make just one trip in your transport, or do you need to move from the ceremony to multiple photo locations and back to the reception? Do you want to include your transport in your wedding photos? How long you need to book your transport is likely to impact your decision on how many vehicles you will potentially need, and ultimately how many you hire. call on family and friends
CLOUD 9 LIMOUSINES Weddings, special events, corporate travel, private tours. 0414 504 cloud9limos.com.au501 luxurious LIMOUSINES
The morning was a whirlwind. You’re feeling all the emotions of the vows and the rush of well-wishers after the ceremony. As you hop in the back of your megnificently-appointed wedding car and shut the door, you have that first, glorious moment of silence – just the two of you. It is this stillness as you hold hands, look lovingly at one another, and get whisked away to your photo location that is one of the truly indulgent moments of your wedding day. What better way to enjoy it than in the back of a prestige car from Cloud 9 CombiningLimousines.luxurious comfort, style and sophistication is the Bentley Flying Spur (pictured). Originally commissioned for the Melbourne Motor Show to showcase the new Bently lineage, it has a beautiful bespoke porcelain pearlescent exterior, an opulent soft special leather interior and brilliant finish. Another option is the Mercedes-Benz 600S Pullman, a factory stretch usually reserved for Heads of State, which fetched a ticket price of $800,000 when new. Believed to be one of only three in Australia, it is the ultimate in luxury and privacy, fitted with a privacy screen between the driver and rear passenger compartment and full electric blinds for the side and rear windows. It’s not just the cars themselves that add a touch of class to your day. All vehicles come with white umbrellas, red carpet, clear wheel covers to protect dresses, ribbon on the bonnet and complementary champagne. Cloud 9 Limousines owner Eugene Zanozin will also look the part in a suit, tie, gloves and chauffers hat. style
arrive in
The vows are said, the photos are done and the formalities are over – it’s time to let your hair down and celebrate the wonderful day you have had! When it comes to the fun part of the evening, your entertainment and music can really make or break the party.
If you really want the ambiance live music brings but your budget doesn’t extend to a full band, why not hire a duo or soloist? Check they can offer the kind of music you are after, but most will be able to play fast-paced and upbeat songs to get everyone up and dancing. Depending on your budget they may able be able to play at your ceremony also.
PICKING THE PERFECT
party entertainment
Before you decide what kind of music to choose, think about the number of guests you will have, the venue and how long you will need entertainment for. band There’s nothing quite like the atmosphere a real band creates – it’s music and entertainment in one! Adept at getting people on the dance floor, a band is a great option for larger venues and weddings. If you have some special songs that you want played, ask the band to put on your playlist during their break.
dj If what you really want is a dance party, a DJ is a great option for your music. They are often more convenient to accommodate (think minimal set up), may offer a more diverse selection of songs and can even control the volume. You’ll likely save a few pennies too. jukebox Hiring a jukebox is a great budget option if you don’t want to manage the music yourself, or your venue doesn’t have a PA system. Jukeboxes may be more limited in the song selection (and it’s worth looking at this before you hire), but chances are there will be plenty to dance along to. Queuing up their favourite songs will also keep your guests entertained. If you really want to go all out, most jukeboxes come with a karaoke function! create your own If your venue has a PA system, you may consider saving the cash and doing the music yourself, or outsourcing this to a tech-savvy friend. While it is more work in the lead up to your wedding, it does offer a personal touch to your celebration, with a playlist specifically curated for you.
duo or soloist
The other popular go-to for weddings, a buffet is often the most economical and This is a blend of sit down and buffet – where guests are served at the table, but on big ‘family-style’ plates and platters they then help themselves to. cocktail Cocktail receptions are a great way for the bride and groom to mingle with all their guests (and the guests with each other). It also creates a much more social atmosphere. grazing tables Grazing tables are a fun and informal way to get your guests mingling. Most often served pre-dinner, grazing tables can be turned into the main event –but we recommend leaving this up to the professionals. mobile caterers Fast becoming the most popular choice for modern weddings, mobile caterers add a fun and funky element to your reception. From bars, barbecue, hotdogs, pizza, ice cream, fairfloss –who says you can’t have the food you really want at your wedding!
There’s one thing everyone expects when coming to a wedding – to get fed! And after the months, weeks and day you’ve had, you’ll need a good meal to keep you going so you can actually enjoy the celebration you’ve planned. Here are the top food styles for your reception to consider. sit down This is considered the most traditional wedding meal, where guests don’t need to leave their tables and are served in alternate drop style. buffet
FOOD
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I N D U S T R Y S H O W C A S E w w w . f c w e d d i n g s h o w c a s e . c o m | @ w e d d i n g s h o w c a s e f r a s e r c o a s t f r a s e r c o a s t FREE ENTRY
JOEL & SARAH Bundaberg Region September 2021 49 real love story SENTIMENTS Day sprinkledWITH
PHOTO CREDIT: Maddison Jayne Photography
Sarah and her bride tribe spent the morning at her family home, which also held a special place in her heart.
photographer Maddison Jayne Photography, videographer DejaVu Photo & Film, dress Gladstone Bridal Boutique, styling and hire Akindra Mae Events, venue Bucca Community Hall, florist Ginger Says, caterer Piping Hot Mobile Woodfire Pizza Catering, makeup Amanda Gear Makeup & Brow Artistry and Kontour by Kendal, hair Stephanie Partridge Hair Stylist, cake Misstteeq Sweets, cookies Two Little Cookies, earrings Ruby & Sage
“He was, however, adamant that our ceremony location should be our backyard. It held such sentimental value being the same block where he’d proposed, and where we’ve just finished building our first home. The boys were also getting ready here on the day of the wedding.”
“I was raised in this house and grew up there with my five siblings, but I was also born there after a very quick labor and an unexpected homebirth,” she said. With eight months to plan the wedding, and, according to Sarah their fair share of shot-gun wedding jokes, the couple looked to local vendors to bring their day together.
Submit your Real Love story at crushbridal.com.au dream team
After the ceremony at the couple’s home, they travelled to the Bucca Community Hall for the reception.
“People always say that your wedding day is this incredibly beautiful whirlwind, and it goes by too fast. That’s an understatement, but I wouldn’t have had it any other way. It was the greatest day of our lives.”
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“It was love at first sight when I discovered Bucca Community Hall, which was opened in 1906. The incredible locals who volunteer their time to upkeep the hall were just the most down-to-earth and outstanding people to work with,” Sarah said. “We had our reception completely outside under festoon and fairy lights draping off the hall making it the perfect backdrop and wet weather option,” she said.
Joel and Sarah Anderson’s love story began across a crowded school bus, as they travelled to the same high school in Bundaberg. Six years later in September 2021, the young couple said ‘I Do’ in a day they filled with sentimental touches. “Joel will often joke about how I’d been planning this day since I was old enough to know what a wedding was, therefore making his involvement in the planning somewhat optional,” Sarah joked.
None more so than their photographer Maddison Jayne Photography. “Maddison’s fiancé went on the same school bus that Joel and I met on, and was my prom partner. The four of us have been very close friends since high school and we couldn’t imagine having anyone else photograph our special day,” Sarah said. Sarah had always envisioned a simple country wedding, which was brought to life by Danika at Akindra Mae Events in Maryborough, who provided the seating plan, table numbers and centerpieces, reception chairs, welcome sign, dessert table, festoon and fairy lights and signing table and chairs.
THAT ARE HERE TO STAY PandemicWeddingTrends PHOTO CREDIT: Paul Beutel Photography
The wedding industry and would-be newlyweds, have been thrown into disarray over the past few years. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, countless couples have postponed their weddings, sometimes multiples times, and newly engaged couples have come to grips with knowing their wedding may not be what they always imagined. The uncertainty has given rise to a number of new wedding trends, as brides-to-be throw out the wedding rulebook and find their own ways to celebrate. And they’re likely to remain popular choices post-pandemic. the modern elopement Many couples are choosing to do what they always wanted—a simple, but no less significant elopement. COVID-19 has provided the perfect excuse for couples who want to elope but were afraid to upset their family and friends. And gone are the rules that say eloping must be done in secret. Most couples are eloping close to home, sometimes with a small backyard ceremony supporting local vendors and including their very closest family and friends. rise of the micro wedding Initially forced into reducing their guest list, pandemic brides are embracing the freedom that smaller weddings bring. Aside from reducing costs, microweddings with less than 30 guests are giving brides permission to depart from tradition and expectations and personalise their day. Micro-weddings allow for intimate touches, personalised menus and higher involvement from guests. And if budget isn’t a consideration, smaller guest lists allow couples to prioritise the things that matter to them, whether that be a designer gown or fine dining. sharing the love Increasingly, brides are appointing a social media assistant as part of their dream team to help friends and family from afar join celebrations via livestream. Sharing ceremonies online has gained traction during the pandemic but it’s a trend likely to stick regardless of travel restrictions or isolation rules. Many photographers and videographers are now offering this service.
While your make-up artist will pay a key role in having you look your best, we all know beauty comes from within. Be sure to give your makeup the best possible foundation by having your skin at its best for that radiant look.
nutrition Not only will eating well and drinking lots of water make you feel great, it will also help you achieve the wedding day glow you are after. Paying attention to the foods you eat will help keep your skin clear and bright while drinking adequate amounts of water keeps your skin hydrated. You may even consider cutting down on alcohol and caffeine in the weeks and months leading up to your wedding day. manage your stress Breakouts and some other skin conditions can be caused by stress. While you won’t eliminate your seemingly never-ending to-do list, it is important to manage the stress as best you can. Make time for walks, exercise, yoga, meditation or whatever selfcare helps you relax. Make sure you are also getting enough sleep.
it’s not just about your face Think about your wedding dress and what parts of your decolletage will be showing – your neck, collarbones, shoulders? Whatever skin care regimen you are following, make sure you bring it down your body too so you can be confident with all the skin on show. get regular with your routine If you are a bit haphazard with your skincare routine, or don’t really have one, now is definitely the time to get serious. Keep it simple, as consistency is the key here. Your beauty therapist will be able to recommend the best routine for you. If you don’t have a beauty therapist, now is the time to get one!
sunscreen You’ve likely heard this one before, but make sure you wear sunscreen on your face and neck everyday! This will prevent any damage to your skin and ensure you are free from any redness on the day. give yourself time There may be a range of beauty treatments you want to try ahead of your wedding, such as botox and fillers, exfoliants, retinoids, treatments and facials. It is important that you speak with your therapist about what is achievable in your time frame and give yourself enough time to try new products to see how your skin reacts. The last thing you want is to be trying to fix a treatment reaction ahead of the big day.
TRANSFORM YOUR SKIN FOR A RADIANT BRIDAL GLOW
glow up
The dress is perfect and your accessories are on point – the last thing to complete your look is your glam and that perfect bridal glow!
It’s become commonplace for women to trial different make-up artists and hairstyles before the big day. Imagine you’ve just stepped out of the salon; looking sensational and feeling fabulous. You don’t want that to go to waste. Many brides-to-be time their trial to coincide with their engagement or hen’s party. But have you considered a boudoir photoshoot? A boudoir photoshoot is a great way to document this special stage of your life and celebrate who you are as a vibrant, desirable woman. The experience can help make you more something blue
Proud stockists of Fayreform, Triumph, Pleasure State and Playtex brands - to name just a few - Impressions Lingerie is well-known for helping mothers feel their best on their childs’ special day. Impressions offer much more than just womens’ lingerie and underwear. They also stock an extensive range of shapewear, sleepwear and chlorine resistant swimwear – perfect for your honeymoon. Own it IMPRESSIONS LINGERIE 97 Bourbong Street Bundaberg 07www.impressionsboutique.com.auCentral41513116
A LASTING IMPRESSION comfortable in front of a camera, and boost your confidence. It can be a great gift for your soonto-be-spouse too. Leaving them with a framed picture to open on the morning of the wedding will give them a little taste of what’s to come on the honeymoon. Finding underwear that makes you feel like a goddess, requires instore help from experts. Carmel Hayne and Merrinda Cornack at Impressions Lingerie have a combined 50-years experience helping women feel ‘sexy and snuggly’, from size 8 to 26. Carmel said it was important for brides to consider underwear when shopping for their weddings dress, and also while considering bridesmaids dresses. “You might have bridesmaids of different shapes and sizes,” she said. “For example, if any of you have a full bust, don’t go for a backless dress because you won’t be able to get the lift you need. The last thing you want is to be readjusting yourself all day.”
Model Toni Jordan wears Kayser underwear set and Shirley of Hollywood robe from Impressions Lingerie PHOTO CREDIT: Partriece Lyons 55
We’ve all become experts when it comes to shopping online. With flexible return policies it may be tempting to save some time, and possibly cash, and purchase your wedding dress with the click of a button. But when it comes to your once-ina-lifetime gown, here are the top reasons you should definitely try before you buy and shop local. yes TO THE DRESS Don’t miss this bridal moment SAY Read the Real Love story of Rachel McAullay (pictured with mum, Janelle Gerry) at crushbridal.com.au PHOTO CREDIT: Nina Maree Photography
While online shopping may have provided some time savings in the past, global shipping delays are something you don’t really want to be worrying about. If you have to waste time waiting on returns and new dresses to arrive, you may have to accept something less than what you truly want.
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The bodice of this dress hugs the bust, waist and hips, before flaring out at the bottom. This shape has less volume and severity than the mermaid silhouette.
tea length Often a less formal dress, but no-less beautiful, the hem of tea length traditionally stops just above the ankle, but is often extended two to three inches above that. Perfect for showing off your shoes! Brides are also opting for knee-length dresses in this category as well. mermaid Also known as a trumpet, this is one of the sexier silhouettes, with a tightly fitted bodice that enhances the hourglass look. The mermaid doesn’t flare out until the knees and often pumps up the volume! column If you want sleek, you need a column dress, also known as a slip or sheath dress. This dress is defined by following your body’s natural shape and curves, falling to the floor in line with your hips. a-line This is the perfect place to start, as a-line silhouettes are known to look good on everybody.
More subtle than the ballgown, the A-line skirt extends from the waist, flaring slightly over the hips.
it’s not your style We’ve all had it happen before. What you think you want, and what looks good on you are two separate things. When you go in-store you can see which silhouette best flatters your frame (see our silhouette styles below). it’s a part of the wedding experience
Wedding dresses are like engagement rings – you know what you like the look of, but you won’t know if it suits you until you try it on. While options for your wedding dress are seemingly endless, there are generally only six silhouettes or basic shapes. Finding out what silhouette suits you best will help you narrow down your dress choices. ball gown Want a princess dress, think ball gown! This dress really accentuates the waist with a fitted bodice and wide, full skirt. This dress will suit most shapes and sizes, but can overwhelm very petite frames. fit and flare
Purchasing your wedding dress is not like buying any other dress – it is a once-in-a-lifetime moment. Don’t short-change your experience! Take your nearest and dearest or your bride tribe and make a day of it. Celebrate with champagne, laugh until you cry, enjoy your catwalk moments and bask in the ‘ooh’s and ahh’s’ when you find ‘the one’. fit’s just right You want your gorgeous gown to fit you like a glove. It’s why wedding dress shops provide fittings and alterations as part of their service. When you purchase a dress online, you can’t be sure what you receive is something that can be altered or changed in the way you want. time is of the essence
GIFT GIVING AND THE modern gift registry
Enter the modern gift registry. These online sites, like gravyregistry.com.au, are popping up all over the place and allow couples to easily communicate with their guests about what they really want.
Once considered the modern alternative, actual wishing wells are becoming a little old hat when it comes to giving. While cold hard cash is practical, it still lacks a personal touch. With online gift registries, you can specify a few experiences guests can either purchase as a gift (couple’s massage, anyone?) or contribute to, like the honeymoon, home deposit or wedding costs.
gifts Some guests will have their heart set on giving you a gift, so think of some special things you actually want – artwork, crystal, personalised mementos, special homeware pieces. The last thing you want is to receive yet another grazing board, personalised or not! wishing well
Gift giving is a customary element of any wedding day, dating back centuries. Once it was a necessary part of starting your life together, when newlyweds were first establishing their home together. Nowadays most of us have chosen to live with our partner well before the ‘down on one knee’ moment.
donations Pick a cause near and dear to your heart and ask your guests to make a donation in place of a gift. This might be a cash donation to a charity or a blood or plazma donation to the Australian Red Cross.
CONSCIOUS
helping hands Need a hand stringing lights for the wedding? Like some help moving in together? Ask your guests for a gift that won’t cost them anything but their time. Whether it be a working bee at home, a fresh coat of paint in your living areas or simply cooking you and your new spouse dinner, add a range of jobs and tasks people can do for you in lieu of a gift.
So when you have the kettle, bedsheets and an abundant array of cheese knives, it’s time to change the way we think about gift giving. Think a little more like Marie Kondo and about ‘sparking joy’.
ESCAPEBeach AGNES WATER WEDDING WORTH THE WAIT real love story 59 MATT & KIM Discovery Coast May 2021
A wedding set against the stunning Agnes Water backdrop was everything Calliope couple Matt and Kim Dingle had hoped for their beautiful beach wedding. “We wanted something that was elegant but simple, where people could get away but not have to travel very far,” Kim said. “The marquee at the Town of 1770 Golf Course is such a beautiful spot, we just couldn’t go past that.”
The Dingle’s ceremony and reception was held at the venue, with everything they needed taken care of. Kim loved that they just showed up on the day to enjoy their celebration, with nothing left to do. “We got really organised in the very beginning to get everything sorted and done, so we had only a few of the final details to take care of in the last month before the wedding. We had a very easy week leading into the event. There was no stress, no hiccups and everything ran smoothly,” Kim said. The wedding was years in the making, with the couple finally tying the knot in May 2021. After becoming engaged and setting the date for June 2016, the couple started their family and pushed thoughts of a wedding to the side once more when the COVID-19 pandemic started. “In the end I really wanted the same last name as the rest of my family. We also
“Matt’s grandparents had a neighbouring property to my parents at Miriam Vale, so we had always seen each other around. We met through mutual friends through town and the rest was kind of history.” crushbridal.com.au team photographer Burnt Meadow Photography, dress Gladstone Bridal Boutique, venue, caterer and styling 1770 Golf Course makeup Jen Campbell Makeup, men’s suits Connor
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The couple’s three-and-a-half-year-old and five-year-old twins enjoyed every moment of their family’s special day. “They loved their dresses and their flower crowns. They were gorgeous little flower girls,” Kim said. The couple’s love story was also simple and sweet, just like their wedding day.
For more Real Love stories, visit
dream
wanted to wait until our girls were old enough to remember it happening. They were a nice age to be involved.”
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Pretty
WIN a gift basket of goodies from Wylder & Eve and Love + Sugar, valued at $100. Join the Crush Bridal InsiderCommunityFacebookfor Find these little lovelies and more at crushbridal.com.au/directory
Let’s be honest. It’s the beautiful little details that take a wedding to the next level. From décor to gifts, jewellery, stationary and dessert. Up your wow factor with some of these special local touches. Love + Sugar make gorgeous cookies, cupcakes and cakes that will sweeten your day. What’s not to love about edible art! Wylder & Eve’s hand-poured natural soy wax candles make the perfect bonbonniere gifts, table centrepieces and commemorative keepsakes. Warners Fine Jewellery make exquisite engagement and wedding rings to suit all styles and price studs for your bridesmaids, a bluebird locket for your flower girl or a signet ring for your best bloke.
Confetti & T biodegradable confetti from rice paper and flower petals. Available in a variety of colours, their environmentally friendly confetti is approved by the majority of venues. Maki Print invitations, personalised gifts, instaworthy signage, cake toppers and customised clothing. This complete printing, laser-cutting and graphic design service is a not-for-profit
LITTLE THINGS
Before COVID-19 cancelled our events and disrupted holiday plans, so-called ‘destination weddings’ were all the rage, and for good reason. They enable couples to opt for more intimate events without offending distant relatives. Couples can combine their wedding and honeymoon in one. Guests are likely to be more relaxed when they too are on holidays. If you’re a newly engaged local couple, it may surprise you to discover you live in an ‘Instaworthy’ holiday destination that will make your wedding guests swoon. Idyllic, affordable and located just a short drive, flight or train ride north of Brisbane, more couples from the South East corner of Queensland are choosing to say ‘I do’ in the Wide Bay, Burnett and Discovery Coast Regions than ever before. Three of our local tourism organisations have teamed up with Crush Bridal to create this special guide to help readers celebrate their love right here, at the southern-most gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, where bush meets beach. Here, you’ll find everything from reception venues to elopement spots and honeymoon options. We showcase romantic activities for two and must-see sights for guests of all ages.
Continue reading on page 66, or find more information online:
www.visitfrasercoast.comwww.bundabergregion.orgwww.gladstoneregion.info
honeymoon here
FALL IN LOVE WITH YOUR OWN BACKYARD
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A short scenic flight from Hervey Bay (40 minutes) or Bundaberg (25 minutes), is an Island referred to as ‘Noah’s Ark’. Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort is an ocean-lovers dream that overlooks an impressive coral-filled lagoon. Sustainability and protection are at the forefront of everything they do. This truly eco destination is best suited for day trips, elopements, intimate nuptials, and adventurous honeymooners who want to slowdown and disconnect from the mainland. Jump aboard a luxury catamaran at Bundaberg Port Marina and let Lady Musgrave Experience escort you to a secluded section of reef that’s sheltered by Lady Musgrave Island, where you’ll be transferred to a threetier eco-certified pontoon. This underwater playground is perfect for adults and children alike, enabling guests to experience the reef in a single day trip. If you want to fully immerse yourselves in reef life and love the idea of waking up to 360-degree views of vibrant blue, why not spend a night or two aboard Lady Musgrave HQ? It’s the Southern Great Barrier Reef’s only truly ‘sleep-on-the-reef’ experience, where serenity knows no bounds.
Spanning from Rainbow Beach to Gladstone, dotted throughout the Southern Great Barrier Reef, are five unbelievably beautiful Islands that each have something unique to offer for elopements, weddings, honeymoons and day trips.
WITH MEcome
KEEPIN’ IT NATURAL Known for near-perfect year-round weather and climate, this Region is teeming with awe-inspiring marine life no matter what time of year you ‘set the date’. Witness a miracle nightly from November to March each year at Mon Repos Beach, where female turtles haul themselves up onto the sand to lay clutches of eggs. Watch as the hatchling turtles make the mad dash to the sea. Snorkel with majestic humpback whales in Hervey Bay from July to October, or scuba dive with elusive, serene manta rays between May and August.
There is nothing more romantic than watching the sun rise and set over the water. Urangan Pier offers impressive views east and west. The cliffs of 1770 provide panoramic vistas unlike anywhere else in Queensland. Unpopulated beaches in this Region stretch for kilometres, extending out from sleepy coastal villages. Take a long walk and find a secluded little enclave for some alone time. away
Wilson Island off the coast of Gladstone is an adult-only private hideaway where you can experience the tranquil life of a castaway in complete style. Catering for a maximum of 18 guests at any one time, this is a place that has to be seen to be believed. Wilson is accessible only via Heron Island. Take a 20-minute boat ride to Heron or embark on an unforgettable 25-minute helicopter flight. This is a family-friendly Island resort with a day spa and 20 different dive sites. All wedding and honeymoon packages on Heron Island can be fully customised.
Just a 50-minute ferry ride from River Heads on the Fraser Coast is the World Heritage Listed K’Gari (Fraser Island).
On the Island’s western side you’ll find Kingfisher Bay Resort, which boasts wilderness lodges, villas, hotel rooms, three restaurants, four bars and four resort pools. This resort destination is the complete package, where you can enjoy pre-wedding festivities, say ‘I do’ in style and honeymoon, all in the one place.
Find a map of the Wide Bay, Burnett and Discovery Coast Regions at crushbridal.com.au
The Wide Bay Burnett Region is arguably Australia’s premiere food bowl. Spend your days driving down dirt roads to find produce honesty boxes at farm gates. Buy locally caught seafood and grass fed beef for your seaside barbecue or picnic. Cafes and restaurants here champion fresh local producers. You’ll be hardpressed finding a menu that doesn’t include world-renowned Hervey Bay Sea Scallops, sweet potatoes, strawberries, chilli, citrus and more. For a wholesome start to the day, try the award-winning Windmill Café, where you can relax and refuel under the shadow of a blue Dutch windmill, set just one block back from the Bargara foreshore. Settle in for a casual, whimsical lunch at The Orchard Table at the tranquil Macadamias Australia Visitor Experience where native nuts take centre stage. No visit to Bundaberg is complete without an intimate dinner for two at Water Street Kitchen, where you’ll be wooed all over again. Nothing says romance quite like decadent chocolate. In the heart of the Bundaberg CBD is a magical little shop aptly named Cha Cha Chocolate, where you can find gifts for wedding guests and honeymoon delights. In Hervey Bay, enjoy sunset drinks, fresh seafood and live music at Enzos on the Beach. Carve out a full evening, go with an empty stomach and open mind to Odyssey Bistro, where you will be taken on an adventurous culinary journey that will tingle your tastebuds. If it’s a picturesque reception venue you’re looking for, try AquaVue Café Restaurant at Torquay for absolute beachfront or the 1770 Golf Course for a stunning bushland setting. Set on the fringe of Agnes Water, the Golf Course offers an elegant hard-floor white marquee with French window panels, lined with silks and fairy lights. Ever wanted a celebrity chef to cater your wedding? Here is your chance. Hervey Bay couple Dan and Steph Mulheron won the fourth television series of My Kitchen Rules (MKR) in 2013 and were grand finalists of MKR Rivals in 2020. As well as owning Eat at Dan and Steph’s in Torquay, they’ve recently started strEAT - a mobile food van serving honest, restaurant-quality food for relaxed events.
I’LL TOAST TO THAT Bundaberg may have once been considered the ‘Rum City’, but it’s now widely recognised as a ‘Tipple Town’ that offers something old and something new for everyone. Start by blending your own signature rum at Bundaberg Distilling Company. It’s an intimate small group experience where you’ll be guided by experts and leave with two personalised bottles – one as a keepsake souvenir you can open on your 50th wedding anniversary and the other to share with family and friends.
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The Region’s cellar door trail doesn’t end there. Enjoy award-winning silkysmooth botanical gins, liqueurs, vodka, fruit wines, apple ciders, craft beers and cold drip coffee at Kalki Moon Distilling Company, Ohana Cheeky Tiki Winery and Cider House or Ballistic Bargara Brewhouse.
Widely regarded as the starting point for the South Burnett Wine Trail, the Childers hinterland is home to picturesque boutique wineries like Vintners Secret and Hill of Promise. Also try Lychee Hill Estate at Tinana, near Maryborough for something a bit sweeter.
IN WORLD HERITAGE-LISTED PARADISE DESTINATION WEDDINGS FOR INFORMATIONMOREScan me CHECK SEASONAL SPECIALS ONLINE Call 0458 767 www.kgariweddings.com.aubianca_bear@kingfisherbay.com441 K’GARI, FRASER ISLAND
INSIDER TIP: Experiences make great wedding gifts. Why not add a local experience or two to your gift registry? (Read more on page 58) raise me UP With white sandy beaches, crystal clear lakes and pristine rainforest - World Heritage-listed K’gari (Fraser Island) is a destination like no other. Nestled amongst incredible natural surroundings, Kingfisher Bay Resort offers the perfect mix of style and sophistication with breathtaking natural backdrops and a relaxed island feel. planning your perfect day.
YOUR HAND Take a slow-paced stroll, hand-in-hand, through the storybook towns of Monto, Childers and Maryborough. Admire some of the state’s best examples of heritage architecture. Learn about our military and medical history. Discover the hometown of Pamela Lyndon Travers, the author of Mary Poppins. Follow a local street art trail and be delighted by large scale murals and sculptures. See the Region from a new angle with a scenic flight aboard Coastland Aviation. Departing from Bundaberg Airport, you’ll be in awe of the reef, islands and patchwork quilt of beautiful farmland. You may even spot a whale or two. Take a romantic road trip through the winding hills and farmlands of North Burnett, before lacing up your boots to hike Mt Walsh National Park. Explore the sandstone wilderness of Cania Gorge National Park. Are you a thrill-seeking couple or are you looking for a fun activity for your bridal party? Embark on a jet ski safari through the Sandy Strait, sandboard down the dunes on K’Gari (Fraser Island) or take your love to new depths with a scuba tour through the iconic HMAS Tobruk dive wreck.
YOU
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www.danandsteph.com.au The strEAT food van offering catering for weddings, corporate events , special occasions is the sister company to EAT at Dan & Steph’s in Hervey Bay, delivering honest restaurant quality meals and warm hospitality to your home, marquee space or event location. Taking bookings from September / October 2022 For more details Ever wanted a celebrity chef to cater wedding?your SWEET DREAMS Accommodating your bridal party and guests is an important consideration when planning any destination wedding. This Region offers everything from camping, caravanning and glamping options to three and four-star apartments and hotels. We have luxury resorts and quaint hinterland farm stays. There’s a reason Agnes Water on the Discovery Coast was named Queensland’s Top Small Tourist Town by the Queensland Tourism Industry Council. It boasts some of Queensland’s best accommodation. 1770 Lagoons is a 4.5-star resort with stylishly appointed rooms and swim out apartments. Watch the sunset over the water from your private deck in one of four charming bungalows at the 1770 Beach Shacks. Don’t be deceived by their shanty name – this awardwinning, accommodationself-containedis uniquely exquisite. Photography thanks to Gladstone Area Promotion and Development, Bundaberg Tourism, Fraser Coast Tourism and Events. #thisisqueensland #visitbundaberg #visitfrasercoast#southerngreatbarrierreef#visitgladstone WIN an RumGetawayIslandorExperience SEE PAGE 11 FOR DETAILS
Likewise, if a bill remains in your name only, it is solely your responsibility, irrespective of your marital status.
THREE LOCAL EXPERTS GIVE THEIR TIPS TO SWITCH YOUR PLANNING FROM WEDDING TO MARRIAGEBILLBEIMERS ducks in a row
www.boq.com.au
Trudy Azzopardi is Owner Manager at Bank of Queensland Bundaberg Branch.
For a lot of couples, creating joint bank accounts is one of the easiest ways to manage money. After all your talking it should become clear if having all joint bank accounts will work best, or if you need joint accounts as well as retaining individual accounts. You should also discuss if you would like credit cards and if these will be joint or individual.
Two of the biggest aspects of life you will tackle together are legal and financial. Setting up your banking and about sharing your finances too. You’ll need to talk about how you want the day-to-day money management to work and come up with a system that works for you. This may include how you will pay for bills, how you will manage discretionary (fun!) spending and how you will save for whatever your next goal is. It’s important to work out what purchases you will discuss together and what you can splurge on without any consultation.
The last step before opening joint accounts (as well as join loans, credit cards or any other bills) is to be aware that you are both responsible for payments. If your partner defaults on a payment, even if you have separated, you will have to cover the cost.
The honeymoon is over and your beautiful wedding day almost feels like a distant memory – you’re definitely settling into life as newlyweds! Now that all the planning, preparation and excitement has died down, it’s time to focus on what’s really important –your marriage.
MONEY MATTERS Every financial (and marriage) expert will tell you the best thing you can do is talk about money and getting the conversation going early will go a long way. Here’s a few things to discuss.
Finally, if you close your individual bank accounts, be sure to make a plan to change all your automatic payments and deposits (like your salary) and give yourself enough time for this transition.
Kelly Dwyer is a partner at Charltons Lawyers. www.bundaberglawyers.com
Past decisions can affect your future together, so be sure to understand each other’s financial situation. For example, are there any lingering store card or ‘buy now, pay later’ debts? Are there any bad habits that need addressing?
Consider a savings account earmarked for your future financial goals, starting with the engagement and wedding. After the big day, put at least 10 per cent of your combined income aside each pay as a great way to start saving for the future.
Talk to you bank or financial adviser about buying your first home to get a basic understanding of how it works and the costs involved. In the current rising-interest-rate environment, calculate repayments using a much higher interest rate, and if possible, make higher payments to get ahead early on.
After the wedding we often see further exciting life events, such as buying your first home, buying a new business and setting up new entities that will hold these assets to ensure their protection for you and your future family. Your lawyer will be able to help guide you through these important milestones.
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Check the beneficiaries listed on your superannuation funds, to ensure your nominations reflect both your wishes and consider the benefits of having adequate insurances in place to provide the right support and protect your assets and income for your peace of mind. Don’t forget to contact your bank, insurers, utility providers, main roads and superannuation funds, to advise them of your new legal name – an annoying but important step in the process. And finally, start dreaming together about the long term. Spending less than you earn, always borrowing responsibly and investing some of your surplus income for the long term, are three of the keys to financial success.
Bill Beimers is the Managing Director of SEQ Advice. www.seqadvice.com.au
LEGALLY BINDING
With so many things to think about when planning your perfect wedding day, don’t overlook some of these important legal matters. Filling out the legal forms to formalise your marriage. These need to be filed prior to the wedding and often your celebrant or church will assist with these documents. Strict time limits apply. Prepare a Will in contemplation of your marriage. Once married any preexisting Will shall be invalid except if prepared ‘in contemplation of marriage’. Make sure to update any existing Wills, or if you haven’t got a Will prepare one as soon as possible. Preparing your Enduring Power of Attorney. Once married any existing Power of Attorney will be invalid, to the extent that it does not appoint your new spouse. Update this document or, if you don’t already have one, make one that correctly reflects your new relationship.
TAYLAH & CODY CRHMaryboroughPhotography What could be more inspiring than tales from real brides and stories of long-lasting love!? Read more about these local couples and be inspired at crushbridal.com.au Recently said yes, tied the knot or celebrated a special anniversary? Send us your real love story to be featured in Crush Bridal at hello@crushcomms.com.au STORIESReal love BundabergNina Maree Photography Kingfisher Bay Resort, K’Gari (Fraser Island) Jennifer McCue Photography Kingfisher Bay Resort, K’Gari (Fraser Island) Jennifer McCue Photography
Jennifer McCue Photography ANITA & ISAAC Hervey Bay Jennifer McCue Photography
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