ISSUE #2 APRIL 2011
AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE
A N E C H O P U B L I C AT I O N
E V E R Y T H I N G YO U N E E D T O K N O W T O P L A N A B E AU T I F U L , S T Y L I S H W E D D I N G O N T H E N O R T H C O A S T
Photo Donatella Parisini – www.donatella.com.au
Anne Leon Designs creates bespoke bridal creations that cater for today’s bride. Anne is a textile artist, working with a variety of techniques to make each wedding unique. Hand crafted textiles that utilise plant dyeing, screenprinting, hand painting or marbling, create exquisite fabrics that become the heart of the bridal collection. Brides, bridesmaids, flowergirls, mother of the bride and groom and personalised flags. For an appointment, call Anne on 02 6680 7088 or 0407 030 122 www.anneleon.com
AW E E D I T O R – E V E J E F F E R Y Eve Jeffery is a journalist and photographer in the Northern Rivers and works for a weekly newspaper, The Echo. Having lived in the Byron Shire for over 15 years, Eve has certainly seen her fair share of alternative weddings and once even unofficially officiated at the wedding of her best friend, where she performed a traditional pagan Handfasting.
AW E C O - O R D I N AT O R – A M A N D A B E N N E T T Amanda Bennett has been working for The Echo for over two years and is responsible for the coordination of their quarterly feature publications. Amanda, along with Echo sales manager Angela Cornell, decided that Byron Bay was in need of a locally produced wedding publication and, after looking at the current offerings, agreed that the magazine would be better online - the result is AWE Magazine.
©2011 Echo Publications Awe would not have been possible without the help of these people: AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE
Awe is produced by Echo Publications, publisher of:
THE BYRON SHIRE
www.echo.net.au THE TWEED
www.tweedecho.com.au
CONTRIBUTORS Mandy Nolan Rachel Jeffery Verity Johnson Victoria Cosford
PRODUCTION MANAGER Ziggi Browning
PROJECT MANAGER Angela Cornell
THE ARTISTS Bref, Cristina and Wendy
COVER PHOTO Tree Faerie
ADMIN Simon Haslam Janice Dutton
COVER MODEL Shantia Jones on location New Brighton NSW
LAYOUT DESIGN Melanie Tongmar
ECHO STAFF Gordon Verbivore
AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE APRIL 2011 3
Contents Welcome
7
Fashion Parade
44
To wed or not to wed? Then pop the question. AWE editor Eve Jeffery
The AWE models strut their stuff at the Ballina Bridal Expo
The Wedding Singer 12
A Sunset Wedding
Renowned muso Luke Vassella shares the magic moments of a Wedding Singer
With the love of three men
Danni Carr & Ash Grunwald
Go frock yourself 22
Cover model Shantia Jones tells AWE about the special three men at her wedding
All you need is love 28 Celebrity wedding: a rainforest wedding with Benhur Helwend from The Blackbirds
54 62
From zero to Bridezilla Mandy Nolan
Creating the body you want
70
Get fit to look great in your dress Verity Johnson
Watching their diets 80 Catering for everyone’s tastes Rachel Jeffery
To have and to hold 36
The Wedding Cake 86
When the love is right but the marriage is not
Traditional and modern and yummy Victoria Cosford AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE APRIL 2011 5
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Welcome to Awe Magazine
To wed or not to wed? Then comes the question
T
The father of my children felt it unnecessary to get married. ‘We already are,’ was his answer to my one daring, blindly hopeful People get married for a multitude of proposal. (Ah, rejection. A stab straight to reasons and people don’t get married for an the core. Nothing crushes the spirit like a equal multitude. Many people are looking response that screams, ‘I’m just not that into for guarantees. you’.) With marriage there are no guarantees. I think in honesty that he just simply didn’t No guarantees that you will love the think it would work out. He was right. Our person the next day, week, month or year. ‘marriage’ didn’t stand the test of sadness No guarantees that children or the lack and children and time and I often wonder of children won’t test your strength. No if we had tied the knot, would we have, he guarantees that the ‘in sickness’ part of a have, put more effort into saving our love. wedding vow won’t test your courage. No guarantees that the unexpected traumas of People laugh at me when I call the man I life won’t test every part of who you are and love now my ‘Man Human’. We are in an odd situation where we are not married, we do who you thought you were – or who you not live together, we are not partners and, thought you married. No guarantees that after ten years, he is hardly my boyfriend. death won’t part you before it is time. Something in me desires marriage. I am not I have never been married. That has not sure why. My parents were married for 27 been my choice but the choice of the men years then they just weren’t. Many, if not the I have loved. It would be interesting, if I was majority, of my friends come from families ever asked, what my answer would be. of divorced parents. Marriages come here is more to marriage than answering the popped question.
AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE APRIL 2011 7
With a portfolio spanning fashion, intimate portraits and unbridled celebrations, Donatella instils her photos with a vibrant blend of artistry, charisma and charm. Adoring clients have called her: “A ball of pure energy”, “An amazingly intuitive woman”, “Sublimely stylish eye”, “Prodigiously creative” and have said “I will never even consider using another photographer again.” Donatella’s international perspective informs her artistic choices. Drawing inspiration and love from the eclectic cultural diversity that Byron is famous for.
T 02 6685 3884 M 0421 648 286 E info@donatella.com.au www.donatella.com.au
crashing down every day with the regularity of the rise and fall of the sun. Marriage doesn’t have a good track record. My man human says that the main cause of divorce is marriage. It’s his little joke whenever the subject arises. So why the urge? Why in the 21st century, when even the most fundamentally religious of us have a pretty good knowledge of basic human nature and frailties and what actually does happen behind the shelter shed, do we feel impelled to hold fast to another being ’til death do us part? In the end, it all boils down to love. Do you love this person? Do you truly love this person above all others? Is it your intention to be with them until death do you part?
No matter race, creed, colour, status or sex, you simply cannot help who or how you fall in love. So forget guarantees. Love lives and love dies and there just aren’t any guarantees, but being fearful of the the possibility that it all may crumble, one day, at some time in the future, or not, isn’t a reason not to get married. It may only last a day, week, month or year. Nothing expected really is ever going to happen on the path of your life so you might as well aim for the best ride you can. It really truly is better to have loved and lost than to never have loved. So, take the plunge. You never know – it might just be AWEsome! Eve Jeffery – Editor
AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE 9
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The Wedding Singer L
uke loves weddings. In fact, in the last 13 years he has been to hundreds of them.
guy started me on the music road and I’ve been on it ever since.’
Luke Vassella is one of the Northern Rivers’ foremost and much sought after wedding singers – there is something quietly special about this man who croons a couple into their new life. Luke studied music in high school and in the HSC before completing a Bachelor of Arts in contemporary music in 1992 at Southern Cross University in Lismore, but his interest in music began long before that. ‘I was probably about 10 or 11 when I really started getting into music. I was a huge Dire Straits fan. I loved Mark Knopfler – maybe it’s not so cool to admit that now but that
Luke says he studied keyboards at 10 and his parents gave him a guitar for his 12th birthday – his education continued. ‘I wrote my first song a couple of weeks after my 12th birthday with the three chords I knew. I started playing in the kitchen at home, then moved up to family barbecues, then school assemblies, and it kept going from there.’ Luke has been a full-time musician since 1998 and he has played weddings his entire professional career, but during the past six years or so he has mainly focused on performing at weddings. ‘Weddings are about joy. The event is about celebrating and affirming the love and commitment that two people share with their dearest
AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE APRIL 2011 13
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friends and family. Music, especially live music, creates an atmosphere and a mood, socially and emotionally. A good wedding musician can shape that atmosphere and blend and adapt with it during the course of an evening.
and unexpected rewards. Luke says that weddings are a very private event and he is a true proponent of the belief that whathappens-at-the-wedding-stays-at-thewedding, but in saying that he does recall some very interesting times…
‘You have to be sensitive to what’s going on; sometimes early in the evening if everyone’s talking and paying no attention me, it’s when I’m doing my best work – creating a space where people are relaxed and comfortable to catch up or introduce themselves. Later on, when the room is ready, you need to fire it up a bit, get people on the dance floor.
‘It’s hard to remember specifics sometimes as there’ve been so many great moments. I was playing at a ceremony on the beach once with a massive stormfront approaching. The bride made a very long and elegant procession. Shortly after the ceremony began, they realised the mother of the bride was missing. She had been stuck in traffic and was 10 minutes away. We had to start the procession all over again, meanwhile this storm was blowing in and I’m glancing at the celebrant and he’s glancing at me and we’re both thinking “we’re not gonna make it”. So I start singing Shelter From the Storm, ready to move into I Love a Rainy Night. Somehow the rain held off until the end of the ceremony; I can’t say if it was because of my singing or not.’
‘I really enjoy the different dynamics of a wedding reception, everything from the sweet and sentimental, to the raucous craziness. If I can contribute to making a wedding celebration a lifetime memory, to bringing family and friends together, it’s a great personal reward to me. I genuinely enjoy serving people in that way, and I do my best to get to that ‘sacred’ place every time.’ When Luke is not being a wedding singer he works in his home studio where he records his albums and music for friends. One of his original songs, Lismore Girl, recently won the ‘Australia’ category at the 2010 Australian Songwriters Association Awards. Luke says being a part of a couple’s special day had has some wonderful
Luke says one time he was playing for a reception at a private residence and everyone was having such a great time that everyone forgot about the hour. The police arrived somewhere around 1am. ‘It was amusing to observe one of the guests, who also happened to be policeman, trying all kinds of creative angles to sweet-talk them into letting the celebrations continue. Apparently there had been around 30 noise complaints; I knew then that my new ultraAUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE APRIL 2011 15
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compact subwoofer was working better than expected.’ Luke says he has had a bridesmaid who decided to do a sort of pole dance with his microphone stand while he was singing. ’I had to politely ask her to stop before I broke all my guitar strings.’ There was one time a groom had to go to hospital for stitches after the head of a groomsman somehow clipped his chin in a bizarre dancefloor incident. Luke says that as with operating heavy machinery, some dance moves should not be attempted while under the influence. ‘I remember some great moments. When a bride dances with her father – tears of joy and sadness. Playing the right song as people gather for a farewell circle is an emotional time too.’
thinking about where the energy is. Does it need to get intense? Do I need to chill a bit, turn it up, turn it down?
Luke says a good wedding singer needs have to have a lot of songs to draw on but there are probably 40 or 50 songs that always work. ‘When people are on Luke believes it is really the people that the dancefloor I do my best to keep them make the party. ‘I can put the energy out there, but once I get a little bit back from there as long as possible, so frequently a the audience it’s like fuel for me and that’s 45-minute set is actually over an hour long. when you can really get a great atmosphere I make a very big sound that’s completely happening. acoustic and that’s always been my thing. Stand up, play it live and keep it organic ‘I think the secret to my success as a with no backing tracks or loops and no wedding singer is not just my big sound, but also my flexibility and stamina. I synthetic sounds. I do use a stereo echo once described it as like having to be a on my guitar and I have a pedal which chameleon, you have to change your shape boosts the bass notes. Playing this way and colour and blend into the atmosphere. does require a lot of effort, and it gets very ‘You help define a wedding by setting up a hot and sweaty, but it’s a very ‘Australian’ mood, but you’ve got to adapt and roll with performance thing. People know how hard what’s happening as it’s happening. Always you’re working. They respect that.’ AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE APRIL 2011 17
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With the love of three men EVERYONE HOPES TO HAVE THE MAN OF THEIR DREAMS ON THEIR ARM WHEN THEY GET MARRIED, BUT OUR COVER GIRL SHANTIA JONES HAD THREE ON HER VERY SPECIAL DAY. WHEN SHANTIA WED HER HUSBAND MIKAL, THE COUPLE’S THREEYEAR-OLD BOY SUNNI WAS THERE TO SHARE THE LOVE AND DAD JUKI WAS THERE TO SHARE HIS TRADITIONAL FOOD.
Shantia has been married almost a year and, in preparation for our cover shoot, she got to tell us how much she loved all of the wonderful men in her life. ‘We got married at Cabarita Headland,’ says Shantia. ‘We had a beach wedding. The views were amazing and the whole day was very romantic and in natural surroundings.’ AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE APRIL 2011 23
The wedding was mainly traditional with a hint of Balinese culture thrown in for good measure and Juki walked his daughter to the place by Mikal’s side. ‘My beautiful dad walked me down the aisle,’ says Shantia. ‘He was a bit nervous but he was smiling the whole time. He was even smiling when when I stopped halfway to cry. People threw rice over us after the ceremony, bringing in my Balinese culture.’ Shantia and Mikal hired a local hall for the reception and the Balinese feast was prepared and cooked by Shantia’s dad Juki. ‘We had 150 people with wonderful food cooked by my dad and a fruit platter the size of a dinner table. We had lit candles 24 AU S T R A L I A N W E D D I N G E - MAG A Z I N E A P R I L 2011
everywhere for our first dance; it was very romantic.’ The other special man in Shantia’s life is her child Sunni who was the ringbearer during the marriage ceremony. ‘His timing was perfect. When it was his turn, he knew exactly what he had to do.’ Shantia says that Sunni was really excited about the wedding and was a part of the preparations from the beginning. ‘Sunni knew exactly what was going on. We talked about it all the time saying how much fun it will be. He got to preparations and I can tell you that he was a wear a special outfit and we make sure he knew he was a very special part of our day lot more patient than his mummy. and that he had an important job to looking after mummy’s and daddy’s wedding rings.’ ‘It was so wonderful to have my dad their a blessing having my two other special Shantia says that it was very important to men at because they are both so gentle her that Sunni be part of their wedding. ‘I and loving towards me and having both of want him to remember this beautiful day as much as Mikal and I will. He still lights up them by my side forever makes me feel safe. They both looked at me with so much love. when he talks about mummy and daddy’s wedding. He had a lot of fun with the That’s what weddings are about.’ AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE APRIL 2011 25
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All you need is
BENHUR HELWEND IS A MEMBER OF THE BLACKBIRDS, A BAND WHO INSPIRED LOCAL AND INTERNATIONAL FANS FOLLOWING THEIR APPEARANCE AS SEMIFINALISTS ON THE TELEVISION SHOW AUSTRALIA’S GOT TALENT IN 2010. BEN ALSO INSPIRED LOVE IN A VERY SPECIAL MAN AND THE TWO BECAME ONE WHEN THEY WED IN FEBRUARY. AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE APRIL 2011 29
Benhur met Adam when they were introduced by mutual friend Peter on the street in Byron. And so began the rest of their lives. ‘It was exactly a week before Valentines day in 2009,’ says Adam. ‘Benhur was performing at Fresh café and we met outside. Straight away sparks were flying. We know it sounds clichéd, but it really was love at first sight. We’ve been inseparable ever since.’
‘The Blackbirds had just finished playing a set at the Star Bar and I proposed to Adam on stage in front of over 200 people. He said yes!’
The couple had their first ‘proper date’ a week later on St Valentine’s Day and just eight months later Ben set the ball rolling for a wedding. ‘It was October 3 at the Bellingen Global Carnival,’ says Ben.
Marriage wasn’t always in the plan for the boys but Adam found love and Ben needed appliances. ‘I never ever thought I’d get married,’ says Adam. ‘But when I met Benhur all that changed.’
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‘When you meet “the one” you just know!’ Ben likes to joke. ‘We really needed a toaster and a rice cooker,’ he laughs. ‘But seriously, I wanted to declare my love to Adam and do it in front of all my family and friends and welcome him into my family.’ And welcome they did. The decision to wed was warmly received by their their loved ones. ‘Our friends and family were ecstatic about it. Absolute acceptance. Even the Mayor of Byron Bay congratulated us.’
men. Benhur played ukulele and sang our song Nature Boy.’ ‘Benhur’s parents are Indonesian so the couple had Ben’s mum dress them in some of the traditional clothing we called “selimuts”, which are hand dyed and hand woven, from the Island of Savu off the south coast of Timor.
After the ceremony Adam and Ben had a cabaret-style reception with wonderful performances by their talented friends. The date was set – an easy choice as it was ‘Because we love food, our menu recreated the anniversary of their first date and the the dishes that we cooked with each traditional day of love: St Valentine’s Day. other on our first proper date together on The couple chose the Kohinur Hall at Upper Valentines day the year before,’ says Ben. Main Arm in Northern New South Wales as ‘The tables were set around the theme of paper because we were getting married for the venue for their celebration. Set in the our first anniversary.’ lush subtropical rainforest it was the perfect Though same-sex marriage is not backdrop for a lush love. ‘The wedding recognised legally in Australia, the couple’s was unconventional of course,’ says Ben. union is accepted in many areas of their ‘The theme for our wedding was “The life. ‘Our marriage is openly accepted and Definition of Love”. Our invitations were recognised in the same way as any other hand screenprinted on different fabrics marriage by Centrelink, Adam’s employer, all handmade by Adam and myself. They outlined the dictionary definitions of what our health insurer, our parents, our friends and our community,’ says Ben. ‘We don’t love is.’ really feel the need to have our relationship ‘We wanted our celebration to be a love “legally” recognised by the Commonwealth party, not just a wedding,’ says Adam. ‘We of Australia. When we got married we got married beside a beautiful creek in stood in front of our friends, family and the shade of the forest. We had a fantastic community and asked them to recognise ceremony by Marlena Basser, prepared with our marriage based on pure love. We have the help of our cupid, Peter Notley. We both that recognition from them and that is all that really matters to us. Anyone who can’t walked down the aisle with our best WoAUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE APRIL 2011 31
ASOHO a space of her own
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accept that probably doesn’t really know what love is.’ Ben and Adam would like to see the laws changed. They have contacted their local federal member and told them the story of their marriage and what it meant for their family and community, and directly asked them to end all unfair discrimination against them. ‘Our wedding was a bit of a protest in itself because we refused to be told we couldn’t get married and went ahead and did it anyway. Just because we didn’t sign a piece of paper doesn’t matter to us. That is just a piece of paper; love is immaterial.’ Both men work hard in their careers and both travel extensively so children are not part of the current plan. ‘We don’t plan on having children at this stage,’ says Adam. ‘During our single years we both had offers from female friends wanting children, but there is no bun in the oven just yet; anyway Benhur is far too fussy about cleanliness. An overturned box of toys could bring on a nervous breakdown! But, we are about to buy our first home.’
been working on a project and I have to go to Cairns almost every fortnight. We really don’t like being apart, and when we can’t be together we chat a lot on the phone and via Skype so we get to see each other.’ Though not a performing member of the band, Adam is a big part of the Blackbirds: he designed the logo, hoodies and t-shirts, as well as doing the stage design. He is tour manager, travel agent, roadie, mediator and, In the immediate future there is work, work, of course, the number one fan. Ben says the work and the newlyweds are spending a fair best way to deal with groupies is to marry bit of time apart. Even though Ben travels one. He did and it worked out fine. a lot with the Blackbirds (he is currently The plan for the more distant future? on an Australian tour), it is Adam who Benhur wants to be world famous and travels more. ‘I’m an interior designer and it’s actually me who travels the most. I’ve Adam wants to be a kept man. AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE APRIL 2011 33
My name is Roz Copley. I am an authorised Civil Celebrant based on the Gold Coast. It would be my privilege and honour to be chosen for your ceremony. I am committed to providing you with a ceremony that reflects your personality and portrays your love and commitment to each other. I maintain a high standard of professionalism, at the same time assuring you have a fun-filled memorable day. I welcome the opportunity to discuss your special ceremony. Whether it be ‌ A Wedding for soulmates, A commitment with the person who means the world to you, Welcoming the newest little member by Name, in a formal introduction to family and friends, or maybe it’s time to renew your vows and begin a new chapter in your LIFE story. Whatever your special celebration large or small ~ give me a call on 0414 638 936 or visit my website at www.doitforlove.com.au. I would love to hear from you. Cheers!
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to have & hold from this day To have and to hold from this day forward... LIKE ANY NEW BRIDE, MARIELLA HAD MANY HOPES, DREAMS AND PLANS FOR THE NEW LIFE SHE STARTED WITH THE LOVE OF HER LIFE. BUT SOMEHOW SOMETHING WENT TERRIBLE WRONG BEFORE THE INK WAS DRY ON THE CHURCH REGISTER AND IT WASN’T LONG BEFORE ALL HER WISHES CAME CRASHING DOWN.
It was a fairytale wedding after a storybook romance. They had met when they were 17 and fell instantly in love. ‘It was a knowing for me,’ says Mariella who after many years still doesn’t understand exactly what went wrong. Seven years after they met, he whisked her away to one of Australia’s most iconic and romantic locations where he popped the question. She didn’t hesitate for even a split second before saying Yes. ‘From the moment we met until our wedding day, I had the love and support of a wonderful boyfriend. The time before we got married were the best years of my life.’ Together the happy couple saved for the big day that took place a year later. The $45,000 bought a lavish event for almost 400 guests – in the early 90s that kind of money went a long way. Everything was
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perfect right down the the six bridesmaids and groomsmen and the matching set of pageboys and -girls.
a honeymoon because we couldn’t afford it after the wedding. So after the weekend we went back to our normal lives – the only difference was that now we lived together. The pair created their union in a large Things were horribly wrong within two church, were photographed in a weeks. By then he was already not coming picturesque parkland, and afterwards home at night. He wouldn’t go to family celebrated with friends family and loved things; he wasn’t a part of our couple any ones on an entire floor of a luxury hotel more. He distanced himself from me from taking up six reception rooms and cutting a the moment we got married. I think from $700 cake that Mariella says you could walk the moment he signed the papers in the into. church something changed.’ The groom managed the entire event. ‘He The new bride felt the relationship of almost was an organised person,’ says Mariella. nine years began to deteriorate rapidly. ‘He basically did everything. I just had to ‘After one month it was clear the marriage worry about the dress and turning up on was over – we were still together but he time. Every detail was taken care of and came home just to shower and change. the flowers were unbelievable. He wasn’t I wasn’t the type of person to snoop so I stressed. Part of why he wanted to do it all had no idea what was really going on. He was to throw a major party.’ became very agitated and very into himself. Mariella says they were very much in love. I was very upset. It got to the point where ‘He would do anything for me. We put each I stopped eating and I smoked excessively. other on a pedestal. I knew I was getting I lost 20 kilos over the next six months. He married for the right reasons and I believed would stay out all night and only come we would be together forever. I knew we home to change his clothes. I nearly lost would stand by each other – we were a my job because I couldn’t function and my team and I was so comfortable with him.’ boss told me to take a month off. I think Mariella says she felt something was wrong my husband was trying to find himself – he from the moment they signed the register. even changed his style of dress.’ ‘I knew something was not right but noone would have thought this was going to happen. I didn’t even see it coming. I was totally shocked. On the night after the wedding I thought he was just tired from all the preparations. We didn’t have
Mariella says that he wrote her letters, none of which made any sense. ‘He was confused. Nothing that happened made sense. On the day we married I loved him and I do truly believe that he loved me. Maybe we met too young. Maybe we should have lived AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE APRIL 2011 39
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together first, but he wouldn’t for cultural reasons: he didn’t want to upset his family. Mariella says that just a short six months after the wedding, a friend of hers finally rang her husband and said enough was enough. Mariella’s health had deteriorated and the friend told him that it was time he moved out permanently, if nothing else to save Mariella’s sanity. The split sent a wave of shock through the couple’s network of family and friends. ‘Nobody could be believe it because he didn’t communicate with anyone. He was behaving irrationally toward everyone. He lost all of his friends.’ He did try a reconciliation seven months later. The couple went on a holiday together. ‘It didn’t work. I didn’t trust him and he was a very possessive and jealous. If two people are not on the same page then resentment is going to seep in.’ The couple stayed apart and eventually divorced about eight years later. Mariella says that after a long time the couple were able to speak about it to a degree. ‘He just says that he didn’t want to be married. “This wasn’t what I needed to find myself,” he said. “I am not in it.” He still to this day says he never cheated on me. I would much rather be on my own than with someone who isn’t honest and who cannot commit. Today he would still do anything for me, but to me we are just distant friends. I felt cheated. We used all
our money on the wedding and afterwards I had nothing. I could have done so much with all that money.’
“Now, if there is anything in my path that is remotely toxic I remove it. I don’t fall for the crap that I did when I was 17.” Mariella is a brave woman. She says she would definitely marry again. ‘It hasn’t put me off marriage. I would live with someone first. If I had the same feelings as I had back then, if I knew what I wanted, no matter what we went through, I would make it work. ‘Back then I went to clairvoyants, healers; read books; learned meditation and massage – cleansing and being around positive people. Now, if there is anything in my path that is remotely toxic I remove it. I don’t fall for the crap that I did when I was 17. Mariella is very generous in her attitude towards her ex, which shows a strength and courage and compassion not found in many. ‘I don’t hate him – the glass is half full. He was guilt ridden for a long time. For years after he was so distraught for what he put me through but I told him to get over it. Looking back it was probably the best thing that could have happened. I would not have had the wonderful life I enjoy, or met some of the amazing people I have, if we had stayed together.’ AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE APRIL 2011 41
You will find that Christina is relaxed and personable with a genuine passion for capturing the magical elements in any situation. Her excellent communication and perceptive nature enable her to explore the intricacies of her subjects, capturing the subtleties of every moment with emotion and candour. Your special day is a beautiful occasion and Christina is dedicated to making photographing it as fun and meaningful as the memories themselves.
Christina Calathas is the choice of couples who demand both the ultimate in image quality and a fresh, charismatic approach. She will work with you to ensure that your wedding is documented in a uniquely creative style, with humour and warmth.
02 6685 8856 / 0402 720 374 info@christinacalathas.com.au www.christinacalathas.com.au
THE
LINGERIE DRAWER Contemporary elegance, discreet luxury and ultimate comfort designed to be playful, seductive and utterly spellbinding 3/2 Lawson Street, Byron Bay 02 6685 7733
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Fashion Parade
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ANNE LEON DESIGNS
ANNE LEON DESIGNS
ANNE LEON DESIGNS
ANNE LEON DESIGNS
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APRIL 2011
ANNE LEON DESIGNS
GOWNS OF ELEGANCE
GOWNS OF ELEGANCE
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GOWNS OF ELEGANCE
T H E L I N G E R I E D R AW E R
T H E L I N G E R I E D R AW E R
T H E L I N G E R I E D R AW E R
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AWE MODELS Anita Johnson Bec Smith Brighid Scanlon Elsa Frazier Grace Jeffery-Kingston Natasha Gooch Ruby Jeffery Shannyn Ricketts Shantia Jones HAIR STYLIST Jazmine Coello bridal & fashion hair & makeup www.jazminecoello.com FASHION, LINGERIE, SHOES, JEWELLERY AND FLOWERS Anne Leon Hand-crafted, plant dyed and screen printed wedding dresses, bridesmaids and mother of bride outfits by Anne Leon Designs. www.anneleon.com Gowns of Elegance Gowns and Bridemaids Dresses by Gowns of Elegance, Bundall, QLD www.gownsofelegance.com The Lingerie Drawer 3/2 Lawson Street, Byron Bay NSW 2481 02 6685 7733 Julie Casey Millinery Hats & Fascinators by Julie Casey Millinery www.juliecaseymillinery.com.au Lois Lane Shoes Banksia Dr, Byron Bay NSW 2481 02 6685 7147 She Shimmers Jewellery Jewellery and Barefoot Sandals handmade by Leoni of She Shimmers Jewellery www.sheshimmers.com.au Helen Luna Jewellery handmade by Helen Luna Jewellery www.helenluna.com.au Passionate Flowers Byron Bay www.passionateflowers.com.au Lavish Floral Designs Lismore www.lavishfloraldesign.com Ballina Bridal Expo April 3 - Ballina RSL
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Your wedding video needs a woman’s touch A wedding is one of the most special events in a person’s life. You can be sure that our experienced staff will film the event without interrupting the wedding experience for anybody. Most couples we have filmed mention afterwards that they did not even notice we were there. The Lewis Media team has over 14 years of experience and use the latest video and audio equipment. We edit your wedding in a natural and modern style and we have a range of packages to suit all budgets. DVD’s authored with chapters, personalized titles and packaging, highlight versions to email to friends & family and still photos from your video are all available. Call to discuss your wedding video requirements or see our website for more information.
Ph. 07 3892 1103 • julia@lewismedia.com.au www.lewismedia.com.au 50
AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE
HAIR & MAKE-UP
Wedding
Makeup Artists & Hair Stylists
Amour Photography
“Simply beautiful makeup and hair...simply great service!” Professional makeup artists specialising in AIRBRUSH MAKEUP Qualified hairstylists experienced in BRIDAL UPSTYLES AND DESIGN
Request a quote and check availability www.makeup4brides.com.au www.hair4brides.com.au Phone: 1300 4 BRIDES 1300 4 27433
“There is no confusing what we do!”
It will be our pleasure to help organise your special occassion here at the Lismore Turf Club’s Winning Post Function Centre. With onsite catering and a very helpful team of professionals to help you with your decisions, from the menu options to entertainment. We also have decorations for hire. The Lismore Turf Club is one of Lismore’s premier function centres, and boasts enough room for 200 seated guests. Located just 2km from the CBD, but set in a semi-rural atmosphere with magnificent grounds and natural gardens, the Winning Post Function Centre has been a leading function centre in the Lismore area for more than a decade. Let us help make your wedding reception a dream come true.
Ph: 02 6621 3176 www.lismoreturfclub.com
Haven Spa and Bathhouse is ideal for small and medium size groups. We have a relaxing, fun & rejuvenating hens’ packages that can be tailored speciďŹ cally for you. Enjoy a lovely time together in the bathhouse, then go upstairs for treatments. Our 6 treatment rooms all can be opened up to each other so that your group can stay in contact during the treatments if you wish.
5/131 Minjungbal Drive Tweed Heads South 07 5513 0855
www.havenspa.com.au
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A Sunset Wedding for Danni & Ash
IN OUR LAST EDITION OF AWE WE SPOKE TO BLUES MUSO ASH GRUNWALD AND HIS SONGBIRD FIANCÉE DANNI CARR ON THE EVE OF THEIR WEDDING. WE FOLLOWED THE COUPLE ON THEIR BIG DAY FROM THE PRIVATE BOAT LAUNCH ON QUEENSLAND’S MAINLAND TO THE CEREMONY AND RECEPTION ON SECLUDED SOUTH STRADBROKE ISLAND NATIONAL PARK.
Danni Carr, with her father and bridesmaids, began the journey to her wedding on a luxury cruiser across the divide between the mainland and An Island Hideaway on South Stradbroke Island. Ash and the rest of the bridal party with friends and family took a slow boat across to the island where a beautiful ceremony in the beachside chapel was the forerunner to a wonderful night’s celebrations. Were you nervous in the days and weeks leading up to the wedding? Danni: Yes, I was really nervous leading up to the wedding, but only nervous about how I was going to look in my dress because I hadn’t tried it on for months and started to get worried about how it was going to look.
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Ash: A little bit. No, not really. It was a pretty fun time. We had friends and family arriving at our house and the closer it got to the wedding the more fun we were having. I was wondering when I would get nervous but it didn’t happen. It was just one long celebration.
slow version of Time After Time when we signed the register. That was just beautiful.
Ash: I got a little nervous on the morning but during the day I relaxed and once we got to the ceremony there were no nerves at all.
Danni: Yes, I think it did. The day was really great. I loved everything about it.
Ash: I loved the ceremony and the vows. We wrote our own and put a lot of effort into them so it was really good saying them. The speeches by our friends and family were really good as well. Then we were all playing music together and Danni and I played Where you nervous on the day? together and danced together. It was such a Danni: No, I wasn’t nervous at all on the day. great celebration. Well, maybe a little, but the champagne Did everything go as planned? soon sorted that out!
As the reception began you and Ash sang together. What was the sentiment behind that?
What were the highlights of the day for you? Danni: So many highlights, but mostly the boat ride over with my dad and my beautiful bridesmaids. We sang and drank champagne. I also really loved that after the ceremony we sat on the beach at sunset with the bridal party and just chatted and drank more champagne. It was just really nice. I wanted our photos to be more about us all sitting on the beach and having a few drinks rather than posed shots and it was just a really great time. Then of course my amazingly talented bridal party and friends getting up jamming with the band, that was awesome! Another highlight was when our great friend Marisa Quigley sang a very
Danni: We sang a song by Kieren Kane called When We’re Gone Long Gone. We stole from Kasey Chambers and Shane Nicholson. They sang it at one of their shows and it made us both well up. It’s such a great song. How many guests were at your wedding? Danni: We had initially planned for 50 guests but it blew out to around 70. I would have loved to have had more friends and family there but we didn’t have the budget for that many people. Where was the honeymoon? Danni: We went up to Noosa for a few days. We didn’t really want to go too far and be away from our little girl for too long. We are
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29 Fletcher St, Byron Bay Ph: 02 6685 5209 email: passion@passionateflowers.com.au website: www.passionateflowers.com.au
byron bay’s beautiful florist passion@flowers – because we’re passionate about what we do, as well as the medium we work with – stunning creations by Mother Nature. passion@flowers is a gorgeous boutique florist in the heart of Byron Bay. Let us assure that you will be impressed by the exotic and stylish work that is created at passion@flowers. We love combining colours, textures and unusual materials, of only the most perfect quality. Creating all things floral, be it a stunning single stem, a beautiful bouquet or a gorgeous arrangement for that special dinner party.
wedding flowers are our speciality The magic of Byron Bay and all that it offers attracts couples from far and wide. We cater for all weddings; large or small, formal or casual. We’re able to make everything from a simple bouquet to a full decorated reception. Your wedding day is to be relished and enjoyed. Be assured that we will work closely with you to make your day as beautiful as you imagined. With your ideas and our experience we will work together to create a unique look for your wedding. To view more of our beautiful work go to www.passionateflowers.com.au
always travelling so the thought of getting on a plane and going away wasn’t very appealing. So we just headed to beautiful Noosa for a short trip away. Ash: The fondest memory for me was
when we got a paddleboard. I love to surf and though Danni loves the ocean she is not really a surfer. So we got on this paddleboard together and both stood up. It was kind of significant. We have been together 10 years and haven’t really surfed together. I think it was symbolic that we did on our honeymoon. It was really special. AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE APRIL 2011 59
Envy
Photography
beautiful creations, timeless memories, a good snapshot stops a moment from running away.... 0422 159 828
www.photography2envy.com
Weddings Bay Byron & Events
Creating Beautiful & Stylish Events Getting married and creating a beautiful wedding should a wonderful journey. All weddings are styled and designed together with you to create your most pErfect wedding. Wether it is a romantic dining experience with fine wine and innovative cuisine or an ultmate weekend of celebrations with family and friends, all of our weddings that are created are special and unique.
All weddings are very special, whether it is an intimate romantic dining experience or an ultimate weekend of festivities with family and friends.
Our service provides professional wedding planning, efficient coordination and creative design with a modern approach to assist you in your busy life. We also provide a personal wedding assistant on the day who has been along this journey with you to ensure that everything runs smoothly.
We will create a Wedding for you that will be one to remember.
Our service provides professional wedding planning, creative co-ordinators or simply your own personal wedding assistant for the day of your event.
Our resources include: stationary assistance and quotations budget assistance venues – private properties, hotels and restaurants assistance with your guests information for the coming event personal commitment to interesting resources that will suit your needs celebrant / priest / rabbi or other denominations transport for bridal parties, vip’s and guests fine dining menus and personally designed menus by our caterers with beverages to match entertainment for ceremonies and reception BYRON BAY WEDDINGS & EVENTS – info@byronbayweddingsandevents.com // www.byronbayweddingsandevents.com // 0413 111683 floral design personal wedding and event stylist hire of equipment and marquees pre and post wedding celebrations and venues
For further information or a free consultation contact me on the details below. Jane Magnus - Creative Director & Wedding Planner
BYRON BAY WEDDINGS & EVENTS E: info@byronbayweddingsandevents.com // W: www.byronbayweddingsandevents.com // T 0413 111 683
MANDY NOLAN GETS TO THE HEART OF THE MATTER WHEN SHE UNVEILS THE TRUTH ABOUT WHAT’S UNDER THE VEIL – JUST ABOUT ANY WOMAN CAN GO FROM ZERO TO FROCKZILLA IN THE SPACE OF TIME IT TAKES A GOWNSTORE SALESGIRL TO SAY ‘WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE THE TULLE OR THE TAFFETA?’
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G Y
Go Frock Go Frock Yourself Yourself Mandy Nolan
W
hen it comes to getting married it’s all about the frock. It’s not your fiancé, or your parents or your budget which determine the style of wedding you’ll end up with; it’s the frock. Every wedding starts and ends with the dress. Every bride knows this. From the minute that ring goes on the finger (engagement is rather like putting something on layby until you can afford to buy it) every girl is on the hunt for the dress of her dreams. If the dress isn’t right, then the whole wedding is completely doomed.
dress like that screams ‘formal’. I’m talking big church followed by a reception centre. Chairs dressed like Ku Klux Klan members and decorated with ribbons, a three-tiered wedding cake. A red-faced priest sinking the piss and hitting on the ringbearer. The bridesmaids having sex in the toilets.
You can’t wear one of those giant meringue numbers on the beach. Not unless you want to combine your dramatic entrance and trawling for crabs with your 20-foot train. And while we’re on the subject, what’s with the train? Who in their right mind would want to spend eight hours or more The dress you pick will reflect your own personal style and, for some, a hidden alter in a frock with an uneven hem? Not just ego. I’ve seen tiny girls who barely say Boo uneven, but a health and safety risk? It shits float down the aisle dressed like an atomic me when someone stands on the back of mushroom cloud. Somewhere under all that my thongs and I get double plugger burn. If someone stands on your train, you could tulle and beading is a woman. Cheryl has been transformed – into Cheryl Noble! A big break your neck. And how do you even AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE APRIL 2011 63
professionallydecoratedcakes Delivery to Gold Coast and Tweed Coast and Valley Whether your style is contemporary, traditional, colourful or individual, together we will create, with your desire and my experience, a centrepiece for your special occasion. With over 25 years as a professional cake decorator and tutor, your cake selection experience with Dianne will be relaxing and stress-free.
Dianne will help you to design your cake with open discussion and complete willingness to cater for your every wish. In partnership you will discuss with Dianne cake styles, presentation, serving options, colours, flavours and budgets. All cakes are made from the finest quality ingredients and cater for all dietary needs. Contact Dianne Zipf for an obligation free appointment.
www.diannezipfcakes.com.au
0414 916 342
dipatzi_cakes@bigpond.com
07 5535 5342
begin to go to the toilet like that? It’s gonna wreck the big day if you end up accidentally taking a wee on your frock. I have a theory that trains on wedding dresses were invented when a very pissed bride came back from the toilet with a tail comet (a giant piece of toilet paper hanging out of one’s undies). Her bridesmaids were awesome in protecting her integrity and created a story that it was in fact not toilet paper but a bridal train. Then the trend caught on. A simple dress means a simple wedding. You want to wear a silk sarong and go shoeless, then we’re talking Fijian style on the beach. You want to wear a crystalstudded corset and a hoop, then you’re going to have to upgrade that backyard bash into something more regal. I often wonder what men are thinking when they see their bride coming towards them. ‘Shit, don’t laugh. Don’t laugh. Is that a bird on her head? Don’t laugh.’ We girls are aware that the walk in is the marital impact statement. As soon as our skirts rustle and the organ cranks up, everyone is straining to get a gander at your frock. The excited whispers start: ‘doesn’t she look beautiful’. ‘Isn’t she a dream.’ Honestly, I’ve been at weddings where I’ve wanted to lean over and whisper ‘I think she passed out in the blush’. ‘Is that a frock, or am I snow blind?’ When I got married I chose an elegant but understated 1940s-style satin sheath with a plunging neckline. I wore giant earrings and too much makeup. When
I walked the aisle, or in fact the makeshift rose-petal path to my betrothed, I thought I heard people going ‘she’s a star’. In fact, after seeing the photos I now know that they were saying, ‘Wow, she really needs a bra’. If you are going to do low-cut, make sure you’re under 25, otherwise it’s just a sad old sag-fest. And that’s just frocked up. Mandy Nolan is an artist, writer, comedienne and journalist for the Byron Shire Echo. Model – Trinity Rose Ward.
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Cover my Event elegant • affordable • memorable Chair Covers & Centrepieces Sashes - Glass bowls - Tealight Holders - Candles - Vases
Northern Rivers & Gold Coast ph: 0422 592 284
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B Y R O N B E AC H WEDDINGS
Bliss on the
beach If you dream of having a Byron Bay wedding let the team of experienced professionals at Byron Beach Weddings work with you to make your dreams come true.
Byron Beach Weddings specialises in creating elegant weddings at memorable locations from classic barefoot beach celebrations followed by sunset cocktails - maybe on the deck of the Surf Club - to a lavish feast in the lush hinterland rainforests of Byron Bay, or an elegant formal wedding dinner at your home. BBW recently celebrated ten years as a leading wedding co-ordinator and caterer. Its wealth of catering experience, local knowledge and contacts enables BBW to create a seamless, picture perfect event wherever your venue, whatever your budget. BBW’s dedicated team can tailor every aspect of your event to suit your individual requirements. BBW is able to arrange your ceremony, venue hire, styling, menu planning, catering, entertainment, fabulous flowers and photographers. BBW is able also to organise the hire of all goods that you need, staffing, and beverage service. We make it easy for you to reserve your date and then co-ordinate services that you require in one contract to take the stress out of your wedding day and allow you to relax and enjoy the happiest day of your life.
www.byronbeachweddings.com.au mpegum@byronbeachweddings.com.au phone 0411 823 958
beauty... passion... your wedding day...
www.lisaford.com.au
Lismore & District Wedding Cars You will be conveyed to your special ceremony, photo session and reception in style and luxury with an emphasis on personal service. Our three classic long wheel-base Jaguars offer extended leg room in the rear and provide luxury and comfort whilst creating a lasting impression dressed with traditional white satin ribbon and tulle. Please contact us to discuss your wedding day transport needs, as you will be pleasantly surprised as to what we can offer at a very reasonable cost. Call Lismore & District Wedding Cars on 02 6624 8209 or email cotter_chris@yahoo.com
Creating the body you want to walk down the aisle with somebody you
Verity Johnson
PERSONAL TRAINER VERITY JOHNSON SPENDS MUCH OF HER TIME PREPARING WOMEN AND MEN FOR THEIR WEDDING. THERE ARE FEW WOMEN WHO ANSWER A WEDDING PROPOSAL WHO DON’T VERY SOON AFTER IMAGINE HOW THEY CAN DROP A DRESS SIZE BEFORE THE BIG DAY.
As an Exercise Physiologist and Personal Trainer, I have encountered many people who want to improve their life by losing weight, increasing muscle and decreasing body fat. There are many women who seek my help for their weight-loss goals, and some of these women are brides to be. Brides will generally have more motivation to stick to their weight loss and nutrition goals, as the end result will be photographed and kept forever. Quite often, the problematic parts that most brides are trying to fix are bums and thighs, tuck-shop lady arms and the
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Lavish Floral Design creates the full Bridal experience without the stress, specialising in unique wedding owers to suit all styles and budgets. Take time to come in, relax in our bridal lounge & discuss individual options with our passionate wedding designers. At Lavish we pride ourselves on our high standards and attention to detail. We seek out the highest quality products and freshest ideas. From a single flower to a designer bouquet every arrangement that leaves Lavish is a work of art. 131 Keen St Lismore NSW 2480 ph 02 6622 6430 www.lavishfloraldesign.com
FITNESS back fat and tummy area. Their approach to work on these areas is similar to that of the general gym goer; however, their motivation will normally depend on the type of dress they want to fit into, or where their honeymoon will be.
cardiovascular exercise like jogging, bike riding, stair climbing, hiking and swimming; it is necessary for the body to keep making a cardiovascular and body-weight change. The inclusion of strength training is the key for target areas of the body such as the arms and back. Weight training sessions should be performed two to four times per week as this gives the muscles enough time to recover, rest and repair between training sessions. If you are advised the right exercises and program of exercises, your body is unlikely bulk up. The more muscle the body has, the better fat burner the body will be.
Most of the time, clients will seek my help within a respectable timeframe, which is the most important start to any weight-loss or body-changing program. If brides do not give themselves enough time to reach their goal, they may become depressed that they don’t look as they thought they would, or may become disheartened about exercise, and then suggest that ‘it doesn’t work’. Believe me, if you give yourself enough time (with the right intensity and a controlled The type of dress chosen by the bride diet) to change your body shape or type, it can determine the type of exercise we will work. may target more than others. If a bride is wearing a strapless dress, more of the If a bride is getting married in a month shoulders and upper back and arms are and wants to lose 10 kilos to fit into her showing, so more core strengthening and dress, I would be telling her to get a new dress. Having a realistic timeframe of about upper-back exercises may be included, 1kg–2kg weight loss per week for sustained compared with a bride that may not want weight loss is a good aim as the body is to show much of this area. more likely to keep it off. However, unfortunately, there is no such The type of exercise initially for any bride to thing as spot reduction. If you want to lose have all-over body weight loss, body fat loss weight from a specific area only, it will not and muscular tone is cardiovascular exercise work. There needs to be a whole-body on five to six days mixed with two to three approach. Having a whole-body approach, days of strength training per week. where you target all areas in your workouts, Walking on most days is great for your body will give you greater benefits and better initially, and also including more intense results.
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Classical Harpist Margaret Curtis
As the most recent addition to the classical music genre here in the Northern Rivers my objective is to make your special occasion more memorable! ‘Music is so important in setting the mood. It represents the whole approach to the moment.’
p 02 6687 2845 m 0425 274 903 e me.curtis@bigpond.com
Being a recent bride myself, planning the days that I would exercise meant that I booked myself in for me; it was my appointment time to get ready for the wedding. I would focus on strength training three to four days a week and cardiovascular exercise on six days of the week. Although my work means that I need to be fit and active and healthy for my clients anyway, I focused on the type of exercise that challenges me more, like chinups, sprints and sand running, and complemented that with my diet. My wedding day was about feeling the best I could possibly be. Verity Johnson – BApp Sci (Hm Mvt) Grad Dip (ex-rehab) AEP ESSAM Verity is an accredited Exercise Physiologist with the Australian Association of Exercise and Sports Science. She is based in Geelong, Victoria.
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Absolutely Byron Bay Celebrant Irena Kirpichnikova
Weddings, renewal of vows, elopements, theme and extreme ceremonies
Your ceremony is the most precious part of your day, having a skilled celebrant is the difference between an event being mediocre or the most inspiring experience of your lifetime. Every couple have their own ideas as to a ‘perfect day’, together we will create your most unique ceremony and I will have just as much fun and pleasure creating and performing it, as you will on the day! Please go to my website to see all my services and photographs of gorgeous and interesting weddings.
www.absolutelybyronbaycelebrant.com irenais@bigpond.com ph 0404 093 919
The Wedding Site Of......
personally customised wedding websites for the
Bride and Groom
Planning your wedding can prove to be a daunting task and making sure your guests are well informed of your plans in terms of the engagement party, hens’, bucks’ & wedding day venues is a feat in itself, not to mention a costly exercise when you have to send out additional invitations. This is where I can help. Having your very own, personally designed wedding website will allow you to stay organised. You can collect RSVP, have a guest book, share photos, offer a direct link to your wedding gift registry and much more. The Wedding Site Of is not a DIY service as I will build and manage the site for you – and all of this is competitively priced to fit in with your wedding budget! I have a number of site templates for you to choose from, depending on your personalities and you will even get your own personal wedding blog diary to keep your guests updated with how your plans are going – it will take the seriousness out of your wedding organising and instead create a fun (and I’m sure amusing) way of staying in touch.
0432 479 522 02 6688 4202 www.theweddingsiteof.com
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Watching their diets Rachel Jeffery
THERE WAS ONCE A TIME WHEN YOU DECIDED ON EITHER CHICKEN OR FISH OR CHICKEN AND BEEF. WITH MANY MODERN DINERS HAVING SPECIAL DIETARY NEEDS, NUTRITIONIST RACHEL JEFFERY TALKS ABOUT THE PITFALLS OF PLEASING EVERYONE’S TASTE, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE CHOICES AT YOUR WEDDING FEAST
You have set the date, booked the church and found the most beautiful place to have the reception. So what about feeding your guests? You know there will be an older aunty who has diabetes, Uncle Jack has just had more heart bypass surgery, and now a couple of friends tell you they have food allergies. How can you possibly feed all these people safely without one of them having to call for an ambulance during the evening? The first thing is to find out what your guests can and cannot eat. The next thing is to speak with the catering staff as soon as possible to get the right menu to suit all the guests. It’s not that hard to plan a wonderful menu and still cater to everyone’s needs. Where you can, incorporate the menu alternatives for guests requiring altered
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meals as one of the choices on the menu. Then the people needing to choose these foods/meals do not feel singled out. DIABETES People with diabetes need to watch their fat intake and ensure they are eating carbohydrate-based foods through the day while avoiding too much sugar. All people with diabetes can still have small amounts of sugar in their diet. But you should always check with the person to see what foods they avoid.
Most entrées and main courses are fine for people with diabetes if they are based on vegetables, salads, fruit and lean meat/ fish. The desserts are the most likely aspect of the menu that you need to consult your guests and the caterers about. Speak with the caterers and see what they can do around alternatives for low-sugar desserts, for example artificially sweetened chocolate mousse or lemon tart, fruit-based desserts, or a fruit and cheese platter with wholegrain breads or crackers. You do not need to buy special foods to cater for people who have diabetes. As long as there are low-fat, high-fibre choices on the menu which are fruit- and veggiesbased, you do not need to buy ‘special diabetic’ foods to cater for these guests. HEART DISEASE AND LOW-FAT DIETS The food you organise for those people with diabetes should be also suitable for people avoiding fat and trying to control weight. If it is suitable for someone with diabetes it is most likely suitable for someone with heart disease. ALLERGIES AND INTOLERANCES More and more people are reporting allergies and intolerances every year. Some are medically diagnosed while other people avoid foods as doing so just makes them feel better. Again, talk to your guests about the foods they need to avoid or need removed from their diets and get the
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DIET
caterers on board early to create alternatives lactose (milk sugar) intolerances. Because of as part of the menu. the varying degree of lactose intolerance, some people with it can still have small Food allergies such as peanut, egg, wheat amounts of milk and yoghurt and moderate and milk can be quite dangerous for some cheese serves, while those with gluten people. If you know that someone has a (found in wheat, rye, barley, triticale and medically diagnosed allergy, it is probably oats) intolerance may need to avoid eating best that you have those foods completely those foods altogether. removed from the menu. This will avoid any cross-contamination between meals and an The main things to remember are to talk to accidental interaction. your guests about their food requirements and consult your caterer early to include as For those people who have an intolerance many options as possible in the menu so to a food, they normally can come into everyone can enjoy the special occasion. contact with the food without any real harm, as long as they do not eat significant Rachel Jeffery – BSc (Nut) MND amounts. These are often people with Rachel is an Accredited Practicing Dietician.
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fot ography
for small occasions www.treefaeriefotos.com
We’re different, because you’re unique. At Savoir Fare Catering, we can meet the needs of any function, big or small, traditional or contemporary. From cocktail party to buffet, to spit roast, to sit-down lunch or dinner, Savoir Fare Catering can tailor a menu that will help you to realise your wildest dreams. We have menus to suit whatever you want your function to be and say. We do not charge more for Weddings – why should you pay more? We pride ourselves on offering the same excellent quality and attention to detail for every function. Why would we charge you more for the privilege of being part of your special day? We can cater for groups of 50 to 500 on boats, islands, parks, gardens, beaches, backyards, halls, and under marquees. The quality of the food will be remembered by your guests long after the special day. We offer flexibility, variety and exceptional quality. We continually hear people say “that is the best food I have eaten at a Wedding, ever.” If you want peace of mind that the main part of your reception will be of the highest quality and standard possible, then Savoir Fare Catering is your only choice of Caterer. Le Ping is an award winning, fully trained Chef, working out of a commercial kitchen. We are passionate about providing food that is 5 star restaurant quality. You and your guests deserve the best. At Savoir Fare Catering, your choice is limited only to your imagination. We understand that your function and your day should be unique and encourage you to build the menus to suit your individual ideas and theme. We look forward to being part of your function. Please call Simone on 0439 937 449 or browse our website with menus and prices. http:// www.savoirfare.com.au
The Wedding
Cake
Victoria Cosford
A
ccording to The Larder’s Jeremy Docherty, only a very small percentage of the wedding cakes his Byron Bay-based catering company makes is fruit cake. As for the marzipan icing, he cannot even remember when someone last asked for it.
Guests would arrive at the wedding bearing these little cakes piled on on top of each other and, if the bride and groom managed to kiss one another over the teetering tower without knocking it down, it ensured a lifetime of prosperity.
Then, in the 1660s, a French chef on a visit to London observed these unstable Styles of wedding cakes have made a staggering evolution throughout history. It creations and set about improving on them all began with the ancient Greeks, Romans by devising the notion of an iced multiand Egyptians, who would bake a bread-like tiered cake; by the end of the century British bakers had embraced the idea. cake shaped as a bird or grain then break it over the head of the bride as a symbol of With the Renaissance, cakes became her fertility and good fortune. Guests would extravagant absurdities, often palaces then scramble for pieces of the cake in the iced with white sugar to symbolise purity hope of securing some of that good luck and complete with tiny figures of the for themselves. During Anglo-Saxon times married couple. White was also used to sugar was added to the traditional loaf, signify wealth as only the most refined and transforming it into more of a sweet bun. very expensive white sugar was required. 86 AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE APRIL 2011
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ZAKAY GLASS CREATIONS
gallery and studio
unique gifts
handcrafted in Byron Bay
Stunning sculptures by glass artist Asaf Zakay. Beautiful gifts that will be cherished forever. Each design is based on sacred geometric symbols that bring peace and harmony.
Gallery open Mon to Fri 10am–5pm 6/102 Centennial Cct Byron Bay Arts and Industry Park, NSW www.zakayglasscreations.com samaya@zakayglasscreations.com +61 2 6685 6255 0414 596 326
Tradition dictated that the top tier be either reserved for the first anniversary or kept for the baby; as time wore on and the cakes were allowed to be composed of other flavourings and batters, that top tier was still stubbornly retained as a fruit cake layer, at least by the staunch traditionalists. In a sense, fashion has come full circle: according to Jeremy, towers are back. Except that now these wedding cake towers may be composed of a combination of different sweetmeats, to visually stunning effect. People are now requesting that the cake be composed of a giant selection of pastries and cakes, mini berry tartlets, mini tiramisus served in shot glasses. ‘Lots of things are put on towers these days,’ he said. However, the biggest movement he has noticed is that most people want to serve the cake as a dessert – and forget about reserving that first tier for the baby or the first anniversary. ‘There are now a lot more desserty-type flavours like tiramisus and mousses,’ Jeremy said. ‘There’s still a strong demand for cupcakes and individual cakes, miniature versions of large highly decorated cakes, finished off with shards of chocolate and individually decorated.’ According to Charlotte Wild of Brunswick Heads-based Let Them Eat Cake, however, ‘while cupcakes were huge for the last few years, they’re old-hat now’. She said that people were not ordering them as much, opting instead for mini chocolate towers – cake encased in ganache. ‘They’re very
popular,’ she said, ‘because they’re very good to serve as dessert servings’. She finds that the trend is a lot simpler these days. ‘People have much less money – they’re on more of a budget.’ Charlotte does a lot of weddings at Byron Beach Cafe and the Italian at the Pacific at the Beach Hotel, so many of her cakes are suitably beach themed. Jeremy said that chocolate remains predominant in most people’s choices. ‘If you’re feeding large numbers,’ he said, ‘that’s how to keep people happy’. Cake designers and caterers recommend at least 12–16 weeks’ notice prior to the wedding. This is enough time for them to create a masterpiece frankly outrageous to deconstruct – but this is your day, so of course you may. Victoria Cosford is an author, journalist and food writer for The Byron Shire Ech0.
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DES KELLY
MARRIAGE CELEBRANT WEDDINGS FUNERALS NAMINGS COMMITMENT CEREMONIES AND VOW RENEWALS
we d d i n gs f u ner als naming s w edd in gs f une r a l s na mi ng s Des Kelly is a Civil Marriage Celebrant (CMC) and Justice of the Peace (JP) located in Lismore, NSW. Apart from conducting marriage ceremonies, he also conducts renewal of vows, commitment ceremonies, baby naming ceremonies and funeral services in Byron Bay, Ballina, Lismore and throughout the Northern Rivers and Gold Coast, Australia. Des’ integrity, honesty, sincerity and compassion are the key points to his success as a Marriage Celebrant and one can be assured that his attention to detail, his passion for family life and his professionalism will draw you to him and make you appreciate any service he performs for you.
Thank you, Des, for your major role in our wedding ceremony. Your experience, valuable suggestions and understanding made our marriage ceremony an unforgettable occasion, not only for Kristie and me, but also for our family and friends. We are so pleased you were available and hope you will be involved in our future special occasion ceremonies. Luke and Kristie
02 6624 4053 041 007 6868
www.marriage-celebrant-des-kelly.com.au
helen luna jewellery designer, metalsmith, artist
www.helenluna.com.au helen@helenluna.com.au mb: 0409 152 885 t: 02 6680 4624
meet Helen on Fridays at Hammer & Hand Jewellery & Metal Collective 1/4 Ti Tree Place Arts & Industry Estate, Byron Bay (open 7 days, 10am-4pm)
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Spend your special day on top of the world..
Congratulations on your engagement and thank you for considering Penny Ridge as a location for your special celebration. Our stunning retreat really is a ‘slice of heaven’, and we would be honoured to share with you and your guests. Penny Ridge has been designed with lifestyle and relaxation in mind. Our beautiful sanctuary is set on 100 pristine acres only 12 minutes drive to Coolangatta beaches and Gold Coast International Airpor t. It is situated 850 feet above sea level, boasting breathtaking 360 degree views to the Pacific Ocean from the sands of Stradbroke Island, to Hastings Point on the Tweed Coast. Penny Ridge is home to an an array of native wildlife, happily nestled among vineyards and olive groves. There’s also a tempting selection of coffee, macadamia and citrus orchards throughout the resor t. The unique atmosphere is topped off with an extensive variety of facilities for your guests, inclusive of: • 100 seat restaurant with endless views across the panorama to the Pacific Ocean • Six luxurious bungalows, secluded amongst the vineyards and orchards • 18 hole golf course Penny Ridge is the perfect venue for your wedding and celebrations, where privacy and enjoyment are your paramount considerations. Our staff and surroundings and will ensure your special day is one to remember. Please contact us to arrange an inspection of our stunning retreat. Kind Regards Scott Whar ton 07 5590 9033 scott@pennyridge.com.au www.pennyridge.com.au
Catering & Event Management
Stylish • Succulent • Simply Good OPEN TABLE Catering & Event Management has extensive experience to orchestrate the perfect wedding for you in a sublime setting.
Should you wish for an exotic, unusual or elegant wedding, contact us to discuss your needs.
info@opentable.net.au • www.opentable.net.au • 02 - 66 843 013 • 0414 878 290
Creatively capturing the essence of Love and Natural Beauty
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A vinyl collector of many styles of music from jazz, blues & rock from 1950s & 1960s, soul, funk, Brazilian, Latin, reggae disco, 80s classics & the best modern acts. DJ Assemblage can set the tone for your wedding, whether it’s some atmospheric relaxed music while you sip champagne & dine or something more up beat to create a rocking dance floor. With over 10 years’ DJing experience at many venues & events nationally, I can provide the perfect mix of music for your special occasion. Jasmine - 0414622440 for playlist examples visit
www.djassemblage.weebly.com