Focus Mini-Mag Weddings 2016 by Focus

FEB 2016

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G R E A T E R

P O R T

M A C Q U A R I E

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SAMANTHA AND BROCK’S WEDDING.

GET THE LOOK.

Samantha and Brock Baird are this month’s feature bride and groom. We catch up with Sam to find out all about their day and just what it took to bring it all together.

Find out all of the amazing products that went into the cover of the Greater Port Macquarie Focus edition.

FLASHMOB PROPOSAL, KYLIE AND KRIS.

MARTY BRALEY.

When Kris was planning to propose to his long time love and best friend Kylie, he knew he had to do something completely out of left field and exciting … After four months of preparation, he organised a flash mob to dance in the middle of Settlement City Shopping Centre. Little did Kylie know this was no “ordinary” flash mob …

Marty Braley from Vows & Kisses has helped over 60 couples celebrate the most special day in their lives. Able to design a wedding ceremony that’s perfect for you, whether that’s traditional, contemporary, unique or just a little bit quirky, Marty loves his job … And it shows in his attention to detail …

C O F F S

DRESSED FOR SUCCESS.

Kimberley Giles spends countless hours crafting amazing bespoke veils and wedding gowns. Embellished with pearls and gemstones, her creations are a celebration of skills and an attention to detail that is sadly disappearing in today’s society. FOCUS sat down with the young creative dynamo to find out more about her work.

GREAT WEDDING HAIR.

So that special day has finally come, one you have dreamt of since you were a little girl. Location set, dress fitting like a glove, skin glowing and every hair in place. Stress free bliss ... Here’s how! The secret to great wedding-day hair ...

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C O A S T

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NICOLE SLATER, WEDDING CAKE ARTIST.

Ever wondered what it takes to design a delicious and amazing wedding cake? FOCUS caught up with Nicole Slater from Sweet Love Cake Couture to find out how she takes her clients’ descriptions and turns them into delicious culinary creations.

MOUNTAIN HIGH PROPOSAL.

Proposing at the top of a mountain could be awkward if the answer is no, as it is a long way down. Luckily for these Coffs Coast lovebirds, that was not the case! FOCUS caught up with Russ Holland and Kirsten Howton to hear more about this amazing adventure.

M A N N I N G - G R E A T

L A K E S

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HANK MEADOWS, MUSICIAN AND HARPIST.

Hank Meadows is a professional musician and harpist, with the ability to play both the Celtic and Concert Harp. With a repertoire that spans Classical to Contemporary pieces, Hank loves to provide that bit of additional magic to your wedding or special event with the golden sound of one of the world’s most beautiful instruments …

GRACE AND CAIN.

Local couple Grace and Cain recently got married at Wallabi Point. FOCUS caught up with Grace to find out all about their special day.

AMBER AND TIM.

LYSAR PHOTOGRAPHY.

Who doesn’t love a good romance! Amber Mitchell is a born and bred Forster girl, who met her future husband (Tim Varga) at a music festival - amongst thousands of other festival goers! The happy couple plan to wed in March this year, and although they now call Tamworth home, they’ll be visiting the area regularly to catch up with Amber’s family …

Lyn and Lance Porter operate LySar Photography and Photobooth, a business that specialises in gorgeous wedding photography. Let Lyn and Lance help you celebrate your special day, with photos that capture the emotion and the magic …

N E W

E N G L A N D

NEW ENGLAND EVENT DOMES.

You may have noticed a very large dome in the backyard of the Armidale Club; you may even have been lucky enough to be inside it. FOCUS chats with Sam Hodges, a Armidale local who has created one of the largest geodesic domes for event hire in Australia.

LOVE BIRDS.

A dedication to a few of beautiful New England weddings throughout 2015. Congratulations to all of the happy couples!

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MAKE UP TIPS

Simply say “I do” to the following bridal makeup rules and prepare to wow! With Marrissa Cross from Ella Bachè Armidale.

CELEBRAN PETER HOWE.

FOCUS catches up with born and bred local, Peter Howe, as he talks about his passion for being a Celebrant and more ...

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Greater Port Macquarie Wedding Guide

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Greater Port Macquarie Wedding Guide

Touchwood Flowers Touchwood Flowers are wedding specialists.

blogs and magazines.

Highly acclaimed florist Ashley Sargeson has created hundreds of stunning arrangements, using only the highest quality flowers. Consulting with brides and planning beautiful flowers has been part of her life for a dozen or so years now, and remains close to her heart.

“It helps to see samples of our work and to talk

Not surprisingly, her talent for design has caught the eye of industry professionals. In 2015 Ashley made Tesselaar’s Top 10 list for wedding floristry for the second time in four years, an honour which reflects the love, passion and years of experience that go into her work. “I really want brides to be confident that their flowers will be amazing and to enjoy the whole process.” Touchwood Flowers has an in-store bridal studio in Port Macquarie where brides can browse through an extensive range of images, books,

about what’s going to be in season - I invite all brides-to-be to phone me to arrange a relaxing and obligation-free consultation.” Touchwood’s Interflora connections provide access to the latest design trends, styling ideas and assistance sourcing specialty or hard-to-get stems, foliage and accessories.

Our gift to you

“Offering that global reach adds an additional creative advantage and means we never disappoint.” Whether you prefer a soft and romantic look, bold colour, elegant simplicity, lavish abundance or a twist of vintage glamour, Touchwood Flowers can help you achieve your floral nirvana. “If you want your flowers to be breathtaking, choose Touchwood Flowers,” Ashley concluded.

*BOOK AND PAY YOUR DEPOSIT PRIOR TO FEB 27 TO RECEIVE A PAIR OF SAMANTHA WILLS DESIGNER EARRINGS

1 Hay Street, Port Macquarie. Contact: Amanda Perrin-Sumner: 02 6589 2816 Email: amanda_perrin-sumner@rydges.com Web: www.rydges.com

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Greater Port Macquarie Wedding Guide

Sarah J Hudson Flowers & Styling Based on the Mid North Coast, Sarah J Hudson Flowers & Styling specialises solely in floral design and styling for weddings and events. Sarah’s style has been described as vintage inspired, organic and hand picked. She loves to work with lots of lush foliage and the highest quality blooms, chosen especially for each client.

Rose’s Vineyard Celebrate the most amazing day of your life at Rose’s Vineyard. We are a small boutique vineyard that pride ourselves on giving you memories that will be treasured forever. Your guests will be kept comfortable in the same venue, with the ceremony being held onsite followed by drinks and canapés on the deck overlooking the vineyard, whilst the bridal party have portrait photography on the grounds. Your reception will then be held in the marquees overlooking the vineyard and perfectly manicured gardens. We at Rose’s Vineyard are committed to providing you with the wedding of your dreams. Please contact us or visit our website to get more details on our all inclusive packages.

Sarah is extremely passionate about what she creates, and each flower is prepared and arranged with love and care. She places a great amount of focus on using seasonally appropriate, locally sourced materials at every chance. From the initial enquiry until the final flower is placed, Sarah works one on one with each client to bring their vision to life. Sarah can offer unique and personalised floral design and styling for your wedding or event with attention paid to all the finer details. Sarah Hudson can be contacted by appointment from her Port Macquarie studio. www.sarahjhudson.com.au

Weddings Made Easy When you commit to getting married, your focus is on making sure that your special day is problem free! Hire Port has built a reputation on providing exceptional, professional service which takes the worry out of your wedding day. We have over 18 years experience in the wedding industry and can promise that your day will be one to remember. Our services include ceremony hire items including red carpet runners, battery PA units, a wedding arch, Balinese style flags and of course the signing table... From the ceremony to the reception we can set up a beautiful silk lined marquee complete with flooring and lighting which, without a doubt will impress your family and friends.. If you are also needing tables, chairs, cutlery, glassware, catering equipment, we can supply that to! If you appreciate professional, reliable service, please give us a call today ! www.hireport.com.au

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Greater Port Macquarie Wedding Guide

Get �

�

Behind the Cover

Hair and Makeup

The Gown Whether you already know the exact gown you want or if you have no idea at all, let us help you find your gown! Our stunning range of ready to wear stock will have you bursting with excitement and that imagination running wild! We can create it together! Our professional team of designers, seamstresses and manufactures will ensure you have the most incredible gown with a perfect fit. This stunning gown featured on the cover of FOCUS has a beaded bodice with crossover back and v neck, flowing into a princess tulle skirt. Inspired by JAdore Designs, we can customise for you to make this your one-of-a-kind gown for your special day.

To obtain this look I used a range of professional products. DMK Cosmetics foundation for a flawless lightweight feel. Too Faced Chocolate Bar palette for a neutral eye, perfect for a blushing bride, in colours - Salted Caramel, Marzipan, Black Forrest Truffle and Triple Fudge. Benefit Pose Tint for cheeks and Clinique Soft Bloom for a natural Pink lip. I finished the look with NYX Illuminator in Narcissistic. My style influence was the chic classic look of the red carpet. Simple flowing waves with a neutral fresh complexion. Stylist tips for you - be yourself! Accentuate your best features by filling in the brow with Benefit Gimme Brow, use a highlighter to enhance a dewey complexion over your favourite foundation and don’t forget the mascara. I love to use Benefit They’re Real Lengthening Mascara for bigger, bolder, sexier lashes that will last all day and night.

DIVINE BRIDAL & FORMALWEAR

Something Blue Find something unique for your special day at The Department Store. Stocking top quality brands including jewellery by Samantha Wills, Inniu footwear, Royal Doulton homewares, Wish clothing and many more.

KATE PETRIE, ALL DOLLED UP

SHOES BY INNIU- THE DEPARTMENT STORE

Flower Swing

Alternate Options

Seasonal blooms and foliages in a classic white and green colour palette - mixed variety of roses, dahlias, lissianthus and lush garden foliages ... Naturally styled to achieve a handpicked vibe.

The glamorous mixed-plated Fit All Around Necklace

SARAH J HUDSON FLOWERS AND STYLING

Jewellery Swarovski

JONS FAMILY JEWELLERS

Serving the Port Macquarie area with quality and care for almost 30 years. Our expert staff work tirelessly to provide you with the very best in customer care and knowledge for your special day. Jons Family Jewellers is your local diamond destination for breathtaking engagement and wedding rings from Passion8, CanadianFire, Australian Argyle Pink and Chocolate diamonds. We also carry an extensive range of quality, affordable bridal jewellery, including stunning 44 greater port Edition macquarie focus. 8 focus Special

The Talesia Bracelet with pear-shaped crystals in an alternating pattern crystal pieces from Swarovski, Ellani and Showcase Jewellers. Pictured in the Cover Shoot are the following Swarovski pieces: Attract Light Pierced Earrings, featuring sparkling clear crystal pavé and dangling elements; Angelic All-Around Necklace; Angelic Bracelet.

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focusinterview.

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Greater Port Macquarie Wedding Guide

Samantha and Brock Baird are this month’s feature bride and groom. We catch up with Sam to find out all about their day and just what it took to bring it all together.

escribe Brock’s proposal and your engagement ring ... Brock proposed to me on the 7th March 2013 at Cresent Head beach. We both had the day off work, so he decided to take me to Cresent Head for lunch. It was just an ordinary day, and I had no idea that he was going to propose; I was very surprised when he pulled out the ring and asked me to marry him. My ring is a gold princess cut diamond ring with little diamonds either side. What was the overall theme of your wedding? The theme was a pink rustic cocktail-canape wedding. Describe the timeline of your wedding day. 7am Woke up to prepare for the day. 8am Hairdresser arrived.

held out at Rose’s Vineyard. When looking for a venue, we both knew we would like an outdoor wedding, and Rose’s ticked all the boxes. We got married in front of the vines, followed by the reception in the marquee. Who did all the Some of the decorating at decorating was d ar your reception? Viney done by Rose’s 8:30am Coffee and l el Some of the themselves as w ding breakfast whilst hair ed W decorating was om fr ll Ji as helped is getting started. done by Rose’s Perfections , who pieces re 11am Makeup - HayVineyard themme pick out cent as bar l el w as es bl ley Dwyer arrives. for ta selves, as well as tables .” 12pm Have some Jill from Wedding lunch in between hair Perfections, who and make-up getting done. helped me pick out cen1:30pm Photographer Mattrepieces for tables as well thew J arrives. as bar tables. We also had a big 2pm Start getting dressed and have some chalkboard upon entrance welcomphotos before leaving for the cereing people to our wedding, which was mony. done by a lady who has a Facebook page 3pm Ceremony at Rose’s Vineyard. called “Designs by Bec”. 4pm End of ceremony and start of photos. Who were your bridesmaids, grooms5:45pm Start of reception. men and beautiful flower girls? 10pm End of reception. My gorgeous bridesmaids were Maid Tell us about the location of your cereof Honour Kristy Pike, Holly Schultz and mony - why is this place special to you Michelle Smith, along with our 8 year old both? daughter, Isabelle Baird. The ceremony and reception were both Groomsmen were best man Rikki Baird,

“

Kodi Baird and Drew Smith. We also included our 9 week old baby boy, Nate Baird, into the bridal party (when he wasn’t sleeping lol). What was on the menu for guests to enjoy? We decided on a cocktail-canape wedding, as it was something different to weddings we had been to in the past. Guests enjoyed mingling on the beautiful deck overlooking the vines, choosing from many different cheese platters whilst the bridal party had their photos. Once the reception started, we had different canapes ranging from butter chicken and rice to satay skewers. How far in advance did you start planning? Any hot tips for brides-to-be? I started planning pretty much straight away, booking mainly the ceremony and reception as well as celebrant and photography. My hot tip would be know what you’re looking for and what you want before you start searching, as it made things a lot easier. What was your favourite part of your wedding day? Becoming husband and wife in front of family and friends and having both our children there to share the day with us. Thanks Sam. greater port macquarie focus Special focus. Edition 47 11

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Greater Port Macquarie Wedding Guide

XS Food XS food have established a reputation as the best caterer in the Hastings region. Whether you’re entertaining two of your closest friends for an intimate dinner party or organising a major event with over 2,000 guests, we can design a menu to suit your needs and budget. No function is too big or too small. XS food are specialists in offsite catering. We regularly cater at local vineyards, surf clubs, function centres, private residences, corporate offices, community halls, arts and conference centres, marquees – anywhere! With over 50 years’ combined industry experience, we are passionate about delicious, fresh and beautifully presented food. We have an extensive menu selection available, or we can tailor a menu specifically for your event. We source local produce and suppliers where available and prepare food on site or in our own commercial kitchen and patisserie. Attention to detail is what sets us apart from other caterers. We take pride in our friendly, professional service, and our experienced team has a genuine can-do attitude. XS food holds a NSW Caterers Liquor Licence and has great working relationships with local vineyards and breweries, giving us the ability to meet all your beverage needs. We understand the importance of providing excellent value catering. We publish all prices in our menus, so that you can see our costs up-front. We also provide flexible options to suit every budget. Our reputation is backed by our clients rebooking our services time and time again. Our unique combination of good food and incomparable service will complement our customers’ overall experience and add another pleasant memory to their lives. Contact us NOW to discuss the options for your next function or event. Ph: (02) 6581 0554 or Mobile: 0412 680 779.

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Greater Port Macquarie Wedding Guide

Port Macquarie Golf Club With sweeping views across the landscaped greens Port Macquarie Golf Club can provide an ideal venue for your celebration. After exchanging vows at either nearby Lighthouse Beach or amongst the lush golf course backdrop, your guests can mingle in the reception room whilst you capture your special day at the picturesque on-site coastal rainforest area or one of the surrounding beaches. Our function room is the perfect size for an intimate reception with the area suited for 50-80 guests and with ample on-site parking all guests can easily enjoy the night. Providing everything you need for a memorable and relaxing wedding day, our qualified and

friendly team will make every effort to ensure your function is planned and catered to your complete satisfaction. Through our close relationship with local suppliers, soft furnishing for the function room can be tailored to suit your theme with flexible offerings for dressings such as table runners, centerpieces and chair sashes. Ceremony and reception packages can be tailored to suit your needs with a range of three course, banquet or cocktail style catering available together with a wide selection of bar items. For enquiries regarding available dates or to receive a function package please email kelly@portmacquariegolf.com.au with the subject Focus Wedding.

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Greater Port Macquarie Wedding Guide

�art� BRALEY

OVows and Kisses O

hat’s your association with the Port Macquarie area? My mum’s side of the family all live in the Port Macquarie region, so while I grew up in Sydney, there’s a strong connection forged over countless visits and hours spent on the beach. I’ve always loved Port for its beauty, lifestyle and people - it’s for all these reasons that my wife and I decided to raise our family here (two boys aged 3 and almost 2). It was a big decision to move from Cairns, but we’ve been here for a year now and have loved every minute of it, especially winter - it was a real novelty to wear a jumper! Why did you decide to become a Celebrant? It’s funny, I never thought I’d ever get married, let alone be a part of so many weddings! Of course, this all changed the moment I met my wife - it was instant head-over-heels stuff, and we said “I do” less than six months later. Our wedding day was filled with incredibly powerful emotions, delicate moments of romance and a wonderful sense of fun. It was one of the best days of my life, and since I couldn’t experience it again as a groom, I decided to take the skills I had gained as a broadcaster and public speaker, and become a Celebrant. It’s easily one of the best jobs in the world every day you get to hear a couple say “This is the happiest day of my life”. How long have you been a Celebrant? I’ve been a celebrant for over three years,

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and have had the pleasure of marrying over 60 couples. Describe the full service you offer to soonto-be-wed couples ... I take a full service, boutique approach to soon-to-be-wed couples. I’m there for them every step of the way to listen, chat and guide them through the process. As part of that, I take care of all the boring stuff, like: completing the paperwork, lodging info, and ticking all the legal boxes. I also work with each couple to design a ceremony that reflects them, and shares their adventure together so far, in a unique and engaging way. This includes writing the script, helping with the vows and coaching them through the ceremony. What would your advice be to couples who wish to write their own vows? Every couple should write their own vows (with my help if needed) because this is your day - where your friends and families have come together to celebrate the best decision that you have ever made - don’t be boring and let a moment like that pass you by! If you do want to write your own vows, think about: Romance: this is your opportunity to make a promise to your soul mate in a way that will never be repeated. It is an outward expression of how you feel about each other and your opportunity to share why the person standing next to you is the one you want to spend your whole life with. Personality and fun: people always say they want a quick wedding, when they mean they

don’t want a boring wedding. Keep your wedding fun, interesting and unique by ditching the traditional vows and replacing them with something personal, meaningful and interesting. Look to your favourite lyrics, books, movies or real life stories for inspiration. You’re probably thinking that it’s easier said than done, so here’s a little more inspiration for you! I recently married a couple who met and got engaged on Palm Beach (NSW) aka Summer Bay (Home & Away). After lots of giggles, these are the vows that they came up with ... They may sound familiar. Groom: You know we belong together. Bride: You and I, forever and ever. Groom: No matter where you are. Bride: You’re my guiding star. Groom: And from the very first moment I saw you. Bride: I never felt such emotion. Groom: I’m walking on air … Just to know ... You are there! Hold me in your arms, don’t let me go. I want to stay forever … Closer each day … Bride: Let me be the one that you turn to; someone you can rely on. Both: Closer each day ... I can tell you now, the above set of vows got a massive reaction from the audience - cheers, laughter and applause! If you want a wedding that is unique, interesting and fun, you need to write you own vows - of course I’m here to help you along the way! What have been some of the most special moments you’ve experienced at weddings? Every wedding is special to me - the fact that out of the 9 billion humans, the two in front of me have found the “one”, is a constant source

of celebration. Last year I was part of a truly touching wedding. It’s one of those situations that reminds you of how great people are. Friends of a couple, whose son was diagnosed with a terminal illness, learned that his greatest wish was to see his mum and dad get married. There wasn’t much time, but a whole bunch of people in the wedding industry pulled together to make this young boy’s wish come true. By the wedding day, he was mostly getting around in a wheelchair, but he still managed to walk his mum down the aisle - I don’t think there was a dry eye to be seen. Many couples find organising a wedding to be a stressful experience. What are a few tips you can give future brides and grooms? A perfect wedding is one where the person you love most in the world gives you a vow and a kiss (hence why it’s Vows & Kisses) everything else is just icing on the cake. Leading up to the big day, I give the couples perspective and remind them: if it rains - it doesn’t matter. If the flowers are the wrong shade of white, or the dress is a little too tight - it doesn’t matter. If the bride is an hour late, or it’s the wrong flavour of cake - it doesn’t matter. What matters, is that you end the day as husband and wife. Where can people find out more info about your services? You can always visit my website www. vowsandkisses.com.au/marty or you can call me on 0433 395 800. Thanks Marty. Interview by Jo Atkins.

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Greater Port Macquarie Wedding Guide

focusinterview.

FlashMob

Proposal O O Kylie and Kris

i Kylie and Kris. Firstly, congratulations on your engagement … Tell us about when and how you first met? We met through mutual friends early in 2011, and we started crossing paths quite regularly. We started having random coffee and cake dates until it was a daily occurrence, shopping and lunch dates turned into dinner dates, and we have been inseparable ever since. One of the best parts of our love is that we really are best friends. Introduce us to your family… We have three beautiful daughters: Hayley - 13, Sofia -10 and Ivy - 2, who are all very excited to help plan our special day. Kris: How did you come up with the idea of a flash mob to propose to Kylie? I knew Kylie absolutely loved mob dances; she has danced in one herself a few years ago and just gets super excited even watching them on TV. I knew I had to do something big and exciting, as Kylie actually doesn’t like surprises, so it had to be fun enough that she didn’t even care about the massive shock factor I had planned for her. I was actually expecting her to get up and dance, so we made sure there was seating between her and the makeshift dance floor... Kris: What went on behind the scenes organising the flash mob; how did you get the dancers and the Shopping Centre on board? I had asked Kylie’s dad for her hand in

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marriage a couple of years ago and had and joined the group … pondered on different ideas, but I knew I As soon as I heard loud music, I was had to wait until I found the right people to instantly excited; I knew it must have been help me organise such a big surprise ... a flash mob dance. I actually started telling I play baseball for Port Macquarie Sparother Gloria Jean’s customers it must be a tans and a lady I play with, Sarah Rowsell, flash mob dance and explaining to them is a drama teacher for the Players Theatre in what it was and already had my phone out Port Macquarie and was excited to help me ready to film the excitement ... It took me a with my mission of love. minute to recognise the song and The centre originally just that it was "our song” that said no to the thought was playing, and I looked and wanted 20 million at Kris with the biggest dollars liability, grin - so happy we a t Wow! Wha ly al re I but nothing was were there to see ! morning .. t’. en om m ie stopping me - all all this happen. had a ‘mov in is s ri K en dd su I could think was He was grinning All of a calli ng this girl is worth back at me; I just the flash dance tting me over and ge the chance! I thought he was ee ... down on one kn had all the centre as excited as me or e to AND ... asked m employers helping just excited for me, MARRY HIM !” me set up music because he knows speakers and keep my how much I love flash big surprise, as we "came mob dances. to have coffee with Kylie’s Then all of a sudden, Kris mum" after an overseas trip she’d was pulled into the middle by been on ... the head dancer! I thought that as he Kris: Who choreographed the knew the lead dancer, she was trying to dance? involve the crowd, and then he was doing Sarah Rowsell, whom I play baseball with, spirit fingers and calling me over to him and loved the idea, and four months before the getting down on one knee asking me to big surprise day, Sarah was holding secret marry him ... All I could think was,”Oh my dance classes with all her mob dancers in gosh, is this real life!” I kissed him, and said, their spare time. “Yes, yes, yes!” Kylie: Talk us through your thoughts Kris: What made you choose that particfrom when you first saw people get up ular song - One Direction’s What Makes and dance to the moment Kris got up You Beautiful? Does it hold a certain

“

significance to you as a couple? When this One Direction song was first released, I sang it to Kylie - it’s my song for her … Kylie: Have you set a date for your wedding? No date as yet, but we plan on becoming Mr and Mrs in 2017. Thanks guys. Facebook post made by Kris on 12/12/15 ... Been 4+ months in the making and no one knowing, but at 2:30pm today I flash mob danced Kylie in the shopping centre and proposed. Here's one of the videos we got; of course she said yes ha ha, but on the 12th day of Christmas I gave my true love a ring. Facebook post made by Kylie 12/12/15... Wow! What a morning! I really had a "movie moment"... We were having coffee in the busy shopping centre ... when I heard loud music start playing. I got sooo excited, because I knew it was a flash mob dance (one of my fave things in the world) and it was to a One Direction song which happened to be Kristova Stewart’s song for me ... *sings* "You light up my world like nobody else"... Which made it even more awesome ... THEN ... All of sudden Kris is in the flash dance calling me over and getting down on one knee ... AND ... asked me to MARRY HIM! I’m happier than I’ve ever been, which is crazy, ‘cause he already makes me the happiest woman alive. #‎healwayssaidhewouldkeepmeforever #‎nowitsofficial #‎imhisfiance

Greater Port Macquarie Wedding Guide

Luxe Catering We understand at LUXE that your wedding day is the most important day of your life ... ensuring the food is of the highest quality, allowing you to sit back and enjoy every moment of this special time, offering all types of menus, catering for everyone’s different tastes, making sure that your favourite foods will be presented and any guests’ requirements looked after. LUXE offers a wide range of menus to suit every occasion, and we personalise every event to suit our clients. Our food presentation and focus on texture, style and taste makes us stand out from the rest. Wondering where to hold your private function? You are most welcome to book our restaurant if you wish. “One of LUXE’S greatest strengths is their flexibility whilst still maintaining high quality standards. I have engaged LUXE for catering in a range of contexts, from professional functions to special family celebrations, and each time we have been absolutely delighted with the food and service. Josh is an excellent chef who knows how to tailor a menu to suit the guests.” Adam Spencer.

stylish & elegant waterfront weddings Be one of the ﬁrst to experience the stunning new waterfront event and reception centre due for completion in December 2016. Exclusive onsite ceremonies at The Point overlooking the bay or in The Waterfront Pavilion and Wedding Chapel all with private landscaped gardens. Stunning resort grounds and pool terrace perfect for photography, champagne and canapés. Premium resort accommodation for you and your guests. We are now accepting waterfront wedding ceremonies from Feb 2016

wedding packages FROM $95PP

Contact Rachelle Dufty Wedding & Events Co-ordinator P. 02 6589 5100 F. 02 6584 0397 E. rachelle_dufty@rydges.com www.rydges.com/sailsresort

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Greater Port Macquarie Wedding Guide

CS Event Management Say hello to the Mid North Coast’s newest wedding and event management company, C.S Event Management.

perfect.

C.S Event Management is a local business whose mission is to put the “fun” back into “functions”, and one that clients can rely on for the best event-planning service.

special.

We know how stressful planning a wedding or an event can be, but with C.S Event Management, you can rest assured that your event will be everything you want - without all the hassles that go hand-in-hand with it.

After your first free consultation, we will be hard at work sourcing all that is required to make it Be it a classical or themed wedding, we cater for your needs and will not rest until we have your special day organised to perfection. Our “love of locals” commitment extends to both our clients and local businesses. Where possible, we will always source local for all event needs.

How do we achieve this? We tailor the planning around your needs and requirements - from the wedding dress right down to the style of cutlery you want.

Venues, catering, décor, floral arrangements and

We will provide you with the products and services you need to ensure your event is

Want to know more? Phone Nicholas Cameron

many more will be sourced locally to help our clients receive the best possible product whilst also supporting our local small business. on 0456 008 767 for your free consultation.

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Greater Port Macquarie Wedding Guide By Michael Yarad

Men’s Suits O O

Bouquets O O Touchwood Flowers

Yarads Menswear

By Ashley Sargeson

Long before I was a florist, traditional bouquets used to be fully wired, featuring traditional roses or other classic white blooms, more often than not in a long, elegant trailing style.

Over the last couple of years we have seen the vast evolution of wedding suits as styles have become more high fashion, on trend and less traditional. As the style of weddings have stepped away from strict tradition becoming more adventurous, so too have the suits.

rooms are now spending more money, largely choosing trend led suits and often putting as much effort in as the brides are. There is currently a large focus on attention to detail to complete and enhance the look of the suit with an emphasis on vests, braces and pocket handkerchiefs. The first thing to consider before deciding on a suit is the formality and dress code of the wedding. Not only is it important to look great but also to match the overall style of the wedding. Informal weddings tend to break away from the traditional suits and tuxedos.

The ever popular relaxed beach or garden wedding usually opts for light colour suits and crisp white shirts. The big wedding trend alert is the blue suit. Whilst blue is the new black for men, we are also seeing the burgundy suit transitioning through to the wedding scene. Such suits often don slim lapels in a contrast of colours. But don’t forget the classy black and white is still a show stopper for the more formal wedding. Making sure the suit fits well is still the key to looking good on your wedding day. Yarads Menswear is where you can find a good fit, quality materials and excellent service, all for an excellent price.

hese days, loose, mixed vintage style very much in fashion, with seasonal posies are favoured pretty pastel colours and blue/grey foliage. by modern brides, with With outdoor weddings in marquees, barns, exciting contemporary and village halls also increasing in colour popularity, couples have become combinations. A lot of more involved in styling and attention is now paid on the decorating their own n io binding of the bouquet, weddings. I believe the nt te A lot of at e th on with new fabrics like pendulum is likely to id pa is now t, ue uq bo e hessian, lace and jute swing back towards th of binding like s ic br fa often preferred over the more traditional w ne with d jute an ce la n, conventional organza style of floral design. ia ss he over and satin ribbon.Today’s We have had a often preferred nza ga conventional or bride often hangs items few requests lately .” and satin ri bbon with sentimental value to create the longer from their bouquet - a trailing bouquets, so photo locket of a loved one, this may be a sign we’re grandma’s brooch or even old beginning to move on from war medals. The variety of flowers the vintage style. Future brides and foliages used to create wedding may see a traditional trailing bouquet bouquets has also changed over the years, as a point of difference, although not all as availability to glasshouse and imported florists have been trained to create these stems has grown. Brides are also getting properly. I guess the real issue is that anything much bolder with their foliage choices. The goes these days ... posies, teardrop, trailing use of succulents has increased as more - brides have much more freedom of choice people become aware of the texture and and can easily find and select exactly the right interest they offer. 2015 saw the rustic or style to express themselves.

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The Cruise Terminal O O Perfect Weddings

With more people looking for the best location for their wedding and one that fits any budget, The Cruise Terminal covers it all.

ffering a memorable is there to spend your special day! With day out on the ever changing scenery, the cruises Hastings River, are perfect for photos and the there are ideal spot for your guests Having a on r ba two vessels to sit back and enjoy the d license r tte be t ha available; the Chinese Junk, occasion. The friendly team bo ard, w to e er th is which holds 30 people, is can help you with all your way ial spend your spec great for a small intimate wedding needs and come day! ” wedding, and the River up with a package that suits Princess, which holds up to you. To book an appointment, 110 people, is ideal for cocktail please call Rebecca from The and sit-down meal options. Having Cruise Terminal on 6583 3058. a licensed bar on board, what better way

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Coffs Coast Wedding Guide

Photo Credit: Lyss and her Camera 24 focus coffs coast focus. Special Edition

Coffs Coast Wedding Guide

Melanie Jayne Congratulations to all brides to be - and not to forget all the grooms to be - who recently got engaged over Christmas and New Year. Now it is time to plan your wedding and find the perfect gown for what is to be one of the most important and celebrated days of your life. Melanie has been a part of the bridal couture industry for over 20 years. Focusing on design and excellence, Melanie Jayne’s team of professional designers and couturiers can make your dream dress a reality. It begins from an idea to a sketch, then a mock up calico dress is made and fitted, before the real garment is carefully handcrafted from luxurious silk fabrics and laces imported from around the world. Finally, the gown is hand embellished with the finest of pearls, precious gemstones and 24 ct gold beading. Brides can choose from the Melanie Jayne ready to wear collection or have a bespoke gown crafted. A Melanie Jayne Couture gown is a timeless masterpiece. All brides to be are encouraged to book an appointment for a private bridal consultation. Our designers/consultants will give you the best advice on what style best suits your look and figure. More information is available on our FAQs page on our website: www.melaniejayne.com.au.

Sweet Love Cake Couture THE COFFS COAST’S PREMIER WEDDING CAKE SPECIALIST Exquisite Cakes Signified by visually striking designs, these edible works of art have a focus on intricate craftsmanship and flawless finishes. Chic Designs Trained by world leaders in cake design and sugar artistry, you can be assured your cake will be the epitome of style. Luscious Flavours Freshly baked to order using the finest quality ingredients, ensuring what you taste is just as indulgent as what you see. Sweet Love Cake Couture is a boutique cake decorating business based in Coffs Harbour. Specialising in handcrafted cakes for weddings and celebrations, Nicole from Sweet Love Cake Couture will design and create a stunning cake that is a true reflection of your unique style. Using only the finest quality ingredients, Nicole expertly combines the traditional method of baking from scratch with the latest techniques and trends in cake design. With over ten years’ experience, Nicole was credited as one of the leading trendsetters in cake design by industry peers in 2015. Sweet Love Cake Couture’s services are in high demand during wedding season, so if you would like to treat your guests to a slice of cake heaven, contact Nicole at Sweet Love Cake Couture today.

Flowers on First At Flowers on First, we specialise in providing fresh wedding flowers. From simple whimsical posies to more intricate designer bouquets, we can work with your ideas to come up with a Wedding Flower Package to suit your style and your budget. Wedding Flowers have a huge visual impact and chosen well, should complement your gown, bridesmaid’s gown and highlight your theme and styling. Our friendly, professional team, led by Kelly Finley, is happy to offer advice and information to help you with your flower choice, and we recommend that you start with our own Seasonal Availability List. Choosing fresh, seasonal and or locally grown flowers and foliages will ensure that you receive a beautiful, quality result on the day. Call us to organise an initial obligation free quotation or to have our Seasonal Availability List emailed to you. As pictured above you can see this recent wedding had such a lovely informal feel, by keeping her choices simple our Bride was able to achieve such a breathtakingly beautiful “garden inspired” theme. Keeping your choices simple can often have more impact than elaborate stylised bouquets and flowers.

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Photography by Rod Harvey

Aliesha & Kayne Fry 14.02.2014

Photography by Heidi Bell Photography

Photography by David & Leah Moore

Ashlee & Dale Jones 03.10.2015 Photography by David Moore

Coffs Coast Wedding Guide

Carl & Rebecca Bennett 26.10.2013

Lovďż˝ Birds O

Photography by Captured With Love

Hayley and Conan Richardson 04.10.2014

Jay Daley Photography

Mike & Amy Photgraphy

Jessica and Dale Higgins 07.11.2015

Karla and Adam Nightingale 22.04.2014

Katie & Vince Sibio 21.03.15

Photos by Leoni Bolt Photography

Kye Norton Photography

Mark & Lucy Singh 24.10.2015

Shaun and Alira Bayndrian 08.09.2012

Photography by Lyss and her camera

Hayley and Jimmy Evans 29.11.2014

coffs coastEdition focus. 27 27 focus Special

focusinterview.

Dressed �

�uccess O Kimberley Giles O

i Kimberley. Can you briefly tell us what you do? I work at Melanie Jayne and specialise in designing exclusive bridal gowns for clientele across the country. As a couturier, it all starts from the sketch I create to suit each individual’s dreams in search of the perfect dress. I make beaded hairpieces, veils and bridal belts to complement each bride and help style her look for the day. Using only the finest of materials and laces sourced internationally, I delicately hand embellish all the garments using genuine pearls and signature 24 ct gold beading alongside a private and highly exclusive range of beadwork only known to my clients. Is sewing something that you have always had an interest in? All my life I’ve lived and breathed bridal. Moving to Australia from New Zealand with my parents and sisters, my mother opened up her studio, where she was creating gorgeous gowns for countless brides. As a little girl I was in heaven, playing under her desk in all the pretty laces and picking up the beautiful

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beads that fell to the floor. She taught me hand You recently completed a course in pattern making at TAFE. Can you tell us a bit about sewing, and I made garters, ring cushions and what you learnt and how it will be of other bridal accessories. benefit to you and your clients? By the age of seven, I would piece outfits In the year just gone, I completed together from scrap material raided a Diploma in Pattern Making from Mum’s fabric bin, spending in Coffs Harbour, where most of the day carefully I designed complex hand sewing on lace patterns for garments and safety pining My creations and built on my up shoulders. My are heirloom existing skills from younger sister, each keepsakes, and previous courses. Emma, and I pranced d xe is beautifully bo Advanced pattern around the house of s te with certifica rd co re making involves proudly in our new a so , ity authentic ides br e th drafting designs dresses, and Mum of pt ke can be ” it. from an idea and a would often come r ea w who few measurements home from work and and knowing how to just laugh at what we test the limits of fabric were wearing while we manipulation to achieve showed off our clothes with interesting textures and creating grins from ear to ear. depth in garments. For my final I have always been inspired and assignment at TAFE, they had us make encouraged by my parents to sew and Baroque Evening wear. Being in the bridal when I turned 16, I got my own sewing industry, I was so excited and designed a range machine so I could sew to my heart’s of exquisite bridal gowns using champagne content. I would often be up late at night silks and thousands of pearl and rich gold making myself a dress to wear for the next day.

“

beads. With all the skills I have obtained over the years, I am able to create exclusive bespoke garments for my clients, who desire an original gown of the finest quality. Can you describe the approach you take to designing and making a wedding dress? I start with a pencil to paper and draw numerous sketches. After selecting the favourite design, I decide on the best fabrics and laces to make the gown from. Then I draft the patterns and ensure the perfect fit, always carefully checking each stage of design. There are many hours and much toil involved in this process before the fabric even sees the cutting table. Once all the pieces are cut out, the gown is then sewn and fitted onto a tailor’s mannequin. Lastly, I add the hand embellishments with laces and breathtaking beads for the final touch. You must be a perfectionist, as everything must need to be 100% when you fit the dress on a wedding day. How much work goes into a dress? A lot of work in a gown is unseen, such as custom built in corsetry and boning, which is hidden between many layers of fabrics. Wedding gown skirts can contain multiple

Coffs Coast Wedding Guide

r With my love fo n io sh fa d an y archer d ul co ho w combined, e than inspire me mor e from nc Jennifer Lawre es’! Oh, am G ‘The Hunger make to ve lo ld how I wou n w for her a stunning go ” ! the Red Carpet

“

layers, using rolls of fabrics and laces. The beadwork is all done by hand, and is very time consuming; imagine sewing on over 15,000 beads individually on a single gown by hand. The amount of hours from the original sketch to the finished product is in excess of hundreds of hours. Each gown needs to fit perfectly, and most require precise fittings only days before the wedding. What are some of the materials that you use? I only use the best, from French laces and pure silk satin to sheer silk organza. All gowns are lined with a soft silk cotton blend, which is beautiful to wear and flows with the silk. I use silk thread for hand sewing and stunning 24 ct gold beads and genuine pearls. Where do you source these materials? The French laces are made on old French looms in France. And I source my silks and beads internationally from many exotic locations around the world. You also make amazing veils to complement the dresses. What makes

them unique? Veils have adorned the heads of brides for thousands of year and are still a tradition among modern brides today. “Kimberley Susan” veils are exclusive only to Melanie Jayne. I hand bead and sew all the veils to suit each gown, matching the colour, beadwork and length perfectly for each bride. Using pearls, gold, silver and crystal beads, these veils are exquisite heirlooms to pass down through the generations. Each dress is one of a kind; how does getting to know the bride help you shape the gown? Choosing a bridal gown can be very stressful, and for some brides a daunting experience. I ensure that my brides feel comfortable, and understand that each bride wants to look and feel beautiful on her wedding day. Her dress must be the reflection of her personality, and help tell her story. After listening and talking with each other, we work on achieving the perfect silhouette. I then design the finer details, right down to the very last ruffle and

ivory pearl. She can have everything she desires... sweeping low backs to French lace sleeves, classical ball gown skirts and trains. She is not just a bride for the day. She is a bride for a lifetime, as the moment is captured and photographed forever. What has been your favourite creation so far? One of the gowns I made was in my last assignment at TAFE. “ Aurora” from the Baroque Collection has been my favourite creation. How many hours went into it, and what were the aspects of the dress that you liked the most? Designing “Aurora” took uncountable hours and was made using 35 metres of pure silk organza, hemmed with a wide braid forming these amazing waves in the skirt. The bodice was a stunning corset embellished with rich gold and pearls. She was fun to make, and I cannot wait to make another one, as this dress was sold before I could have it professionally photographed. Your creations must be seen as heirlooms and could be handed down from

generation to generation; do you also see them this way? My creations are heirloom keepsakes, and each is beautifully boxed with certificates of authenticity, so a record can be kept of the brides who wear it. As each piece is passed down it collects history, becoming more priceless and holding precious memories. If you could create a dress for a celebrity, who would it be and why? With my love for archery and fashion combined, who could inspire me more than Jennifer Lawrence from The Hunger Games! Oh, how I would love to make her a stunning gown for the red carpet! What are your plans for the future? I love working in bridal as a couturier and feel honoured being a part of something so special and beautiful with my brides. I plan on continuing work here at Melanie Jayne and will keep designing gowns where the only limit to my creations is my imagination. Where can people find out more about your work? All my work can be viewed in store at Melanie Jayne. I post my recent works in progress on our Facebook page and am available for appointed bridal consultations. Thanks Kimberley. coffs coastEdition focus. 29 29 focus Special

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Coffs Coast Wedding Guide

Opal Cove

resort Your Perfect Wedding Venue Opal Cove Resort specialises in wedding ceremonies and receptions, making it the perfect venue for your special day. Let us make this day one you will remember forever. Say “I do” surrounded by nature, your family and friends.

pal Cove Resort specialises in Wedding Ceremonies and Receptions making it the perfect venue for your special day. Let us make this day one you will

Our picturesque and stylishly appointed reception venues make the perfect location

your guests may never want to leave! Our dedicated Wedding Coordinator will

to celebrate your special day. Offering natural

guide you in making the most important day

lighting and panoramic views of the Pacific

of your life stress free and memorable. Contact

Ocean, the Opals function room can cater for up

Carolyn today on (02) 6651 0510 or email

remember forever. Say ‘I do’ surrounded by

to 120 guests and is fully equipped with a Bar,

weddings@opalcove.com to tailor a Wedding

nature, your family and friends.

DJ Booth, Dance Floor, Projector and Screen.

Package just for you!

At Opal Cove Resort, we have only one

For larger weddings, our Ballroom will be

Some of our happy couples from 2015

ceremony per day, ensuring that you and your

sure to impress, featuring high ceilings, endless

“I wanted to say how appreciative I am for

guests can relax and enjoy the facilities.

theming options, it can accommodate over 300

everything you did leading up to and on the day

guests, with plenty of room for dancing and

of our wedding; it was seriously a spectacular

entertainment.

day!” Jasmine and Paul, October 2015.

With an idyllic beachside location and fabulous views to the Solitary Islands, look no further than Opal Cove Resort Coffs Harbour.

A spectacular backdrop for photos and special

“Thank you for such an awesome job last

couldn’t have asked for anything more from you, Carolyn. Thank you so much.” Abbey and Simon, September 2015. “A huge thank you to you and the staff who assisted to make our day in March enjoyable. Thank you for all the assistance, discussions and additional advice/direction and small touches that you provided in making our small but special event an extremely enjoyable one. We will always have fond memories of the day and the fact that everything ran smoothly, and that is credit to yourself and a wonderful

Capture the moment on your wedding day

memories is right here at Opal Cove Resort Coffs

night. Everything went so smoothly, all the staff

team there at Opal Cove, from reception, to wait

with a variety of ceremony locations featuring

Harbour. Set in an idyllic location, with luxury

were friendly and amazing and the food was

staff to the domestic staff. We look forward to

amazing views of ocean, lagoon and garden

accommodation options, exquisite cuisine and

beautiful! You are professional, helpful, caring

returning on our anniversary, if not beforehand.”

backdrops.

quality service from a professional team, you and

and absolutely fantastic at your job, and we

Shannon and Adam, March 2015.

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focusinterview.

weet Love SÄ Ä

NicoleO slater

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Wedding Cake Artist

Coffs Coast Wedding Guide

ow long have you been creating wedding cakes? I discovered the art of cake decorating around 12 years ago and initially dreamt of nothing more than creating fun and funky kids’ cakes. Around five years ago though, I fell in love with sugar flower artistry and have specialised in weddings ever since. Can you briefly describe the process of creating a wedding cake? It’s exciting! And yummy! And hard work! The process begins with our first contact with the client. The most important thing is that the cake is personalised for their love story. This is where the design comes in. Then, the exciting part is bringing the vision to life. First the cake is baked the way grandma did ... from scratch and with love ... no packet mixes and production lines here. Cakes are then torted, filled and covered to lock in the freshness and moisture. All up, that’s a three-day process. Then there’s the

decoration, which can take as little as an hour or two, or as long as a week. What ingredients are used to make a wedding cake? Only the very best! Not all cakes are created equal, and the ingredients are where it all begins and where it all ends. We source only the freshest, finest quality ingredients to produce the mouth-wateringly delicious cakes we’ve become renowned for. It’s such a cliché in the industry, but a look at our testimonials reflects that our cakes really do taste as good as they look. We even keep free-range heritage breed chickens who lay the eggs used in our cakes. What’s the favourite cake you’ve created? Without a doubt, it’s our “Nature’s Lovebirds” cake. In 2015, this cake saw us credited as one of the leading trendsetters in cake design (on a global stage) by industry peers. What’s even better is that many couples have chosen this design for their wedding.

G one are the days where the ch fondant is an in e ar s ke ca ur O thick. t an covered in fond nd ou which is ar s 3 mm thick, so it’ ” e. bl ea tic no ly bare

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It’s pretty special to know that something that came from my heart and soul plays such an important part in the start of a couple’s journey together. How long does a cake take to create on average? Hmmmm, well that’s a difficult one to answer, because there’s no such thing as an average wedding cake. Mind you, it’s a question I get asked a lot ... So if I was to put a timeline on it, I’d say around three days. What are some of the options that people have when they order a cake? Oh gosh, there are lots! There’s more to a cake than first meets the eye. But when you break it all down, there are three main elements - size, flavour and design. Size and flavour are easy, but design options are limitless. Some clients bring us a picture of their dream cake. Others like different elements from a number of cakes. And some choose to have a cake designed exclusively for them. The good news is, we can work with any of these options. What have been some of the stranger requests that you have had? There’s not much that surprises me anymore. One request was too naughty to print, but some other “unique” requests include zombies, skulls, Day of the Dead and dragons.

What was the most extravagant cake that you have ever made? There’s been a trend in the industry for a little while for naked cakes. While this style of cake is popular, particularly with our relaxed coastal lifestyle, clients either love them or hate them. For weddings though, there’s no escaping the captivating romance of a decorated cake. Gone are the days where the fondant is an inch thick. Our cakes are covered in fondant which is around 3 mm thick, so it’s barely noticeable. Savvy brides are sending us photos of cakes from internationally renowned designers such as Cotton and Crumbs, Peggy Porschen, Maggie Austin Cakes and Faye Cahill Cake Design. Do wedding cake trends change? Even in the relatively short time I’ve been in the industry, I’ve seen trends change. But the good thing is, there’s really no right or wrong. Everything goes, as it really is about a reflection of the couple. What are your plans for the future? An entire wall in my office is taken up with a quote from Steve Jobs: “The only way to do great work is to love what you do”. This is the mantra for the business, and I plan to continue loving what I do. Thanks Nicole. coffs coastEdition focus. 33 33 focus Special

Coffs Coast Wedding Guide

Mass Nutrition Green Tea X50 have created this super-clean drink that is an instant energy provider, helps to burn fat, detoxify the organs and also increase the metabolic rate of the body. The product is free of guarana, while it stimulates fat burning via thermogenesis. Green tea X50 provides a concentrated source of green tea powder (provides about 20 servings of green tea in a single serving). Since it contains a combination of antioxidants, green tea x50 is an ultimate antioxidant house that possess excellent free radical scavenging properties. The product can be taken as an energy drink, detox help and also weight loss aid.

the skin of fruits like grapes, berries and nuts. It is also present in high concentration in red wine. Many studies show that resveratrol is an important phytonutrient (plant chemical that helps to reduce inflammation, prevent free radical damage and offer protection against cancers. Each sachet of Green teaX50 contains the equivalent of resveratrol present in 25 glasses of wine. L-Theanine: it is an aminoacid that occurs naturally in green tea leaves. Theanine is known for its ability to improve mental alertness, clarity and focus.

Ingredients Green Tea Extract (Camellia Sinensis): green tea extracts are rich in polyphenolic antioxidants that prevent many degenerative health conditions. The presence of theanine and EGCG promote an anti-inflammatory response.

EGCG: Epigallactocatechin Gallate is in short called EGCG. EGCG is a polyphenolic compound that is responsible for the powerful antioxidant effect of green tea and its fat-burning ability. Some studies show that EGCG helps to initiate the thermogenesis (fat-burning ability) of the body and help as a natural aid in weight loss.

Resveratrol (Fallopia Japonica): Reseveratrol is a type of antioxidant that is commonly found in

Trace minerals play a crucial role in enhancing immune health, energy and metabolism.

Great

Wedding

HAIR

ork it all out in rehearssnapshots - anything from a photo of you in al … your dress to the flowers you’ll be carrying - so Get organised. Schedule your stylist has aesthetic guidance on the whole your hair trial three months feel of your wedding. before the wedding, Bring a trusted friend or family member, not recommends Lauren Vestey, owner of Living Doll the whole tribe. Ask your mother, your MOH, or Premier Stylists. If you book it too early in the a friend whose opinion you trust to come with planning process, changing trends you. Too many voices create chaos, or too many options could lead Lauren explains. to second-guessing. See what works. Don’t t Bring a Pinteres Have a full dress forget the hair accessories bo ard of rehearsal, out of sight (veil, comb) you plan ots - anything sh ap sn of course. A great u on wearing so you can yo of o from a phot idea is to go home e th to experiment with them. s es dr in your and try your dress on be ll u’ yo Take photos of each s flower with your hairstyle, ur stylist yo so ng yi hairstyle from different rr ca to see if everything idance has aesthetic gu angles and try a few comes together as you el of on the whole fe options so that you really ” . imagined it would. ng di ed w your can find the one you love. Wash and dry your hair You will get a feel for the the night beforehand to avoid right one, almost straight away, spending the majority of your trial remembering something that looks good getting a blowout. Stylists prefer to work on someone else may not look the same on with hair that is washed the night before, yourself. as it allows the hair to settle and not be By having options, it won’t dishearten you too soft to work with. and it will make the process a fun and enjoyable Wear makeup. You’ll be staring at yourself, one. The Living Doll Premier Stylists team pride so put your best face forward, Lauren says. If themselves on making your Perfect Look for you can, schedule your makeup trial to happen your Perfect Day, stress free and beautiful. right before. Bring visuals. Bring a Pinterest board of XO Dolls.

“

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Coffs Coast Wedding Guide

Offbeat operations

Choosing the right music for your wedding can be quite daunting. FOCUS caught up with Offbeat Operations to find out how to book the perfect band or DJ for your special day.

hat do you specialise in? We specialise in booking music for venues, and booking tours for bands. We co-ordinate many outdoor concerts and festivals. We also, of course, book entertainment for many weddings. We promote the bands’ tours, organise interviews and co-ordinate with media, the venue and the managers of the acts. We also do a lot of corporate work and supply some the biggest companies in Australia with our corporate artists Australia wide. You pretty much have the market covered when looking to book a band or DJ for weddings on the North Coast. What are some of the things you need to consider when organising music for your wedding? So many aspects to consider, but I would say to not only choose what music you’re personally into, but to consider your guests so they are well entertained also. Obviously budget determines what you can book, though I would look at the amount of guests you have at the wedding. If it’s only

a small wedding, you may only need a duo or even solo; if it’s a larger wedding, a band would be more suitable. You should always firstly check with the venue where you are holding your wedding to see if they have any noise restrictions or policies you need to follow, as this can impact hugely on what you can book. It’s also never too early to book; the better quality acts get booked out very far in advance. Would you recommend a band or a DJ for a wedding? What is the most popular option? That’s a really hard one. I personally prefer live bands to DJs, but it’s such a personal preference. I say some people may be more inclined to go with a DJ if the venue has restrictions with noise, or even space. I feel bands create a better atmosphere and prescence, but others may prefer a DJ for the song range, and may have more input into the songs they want played, so for that reason a DJ may be the better option. Choosing the right entertainment for your wedding is so important; it can make your wedding day one to remember for a lifetime. What is the process when booking a

band or DJ through Offbeat Operations? Just give us a call or email us, and we can simply have a chat to get a good idea of what you are after, the wedding setting, venue etc; so we can get a feel for your wedding. Once we have done this, we will compile a list of options for you with prices and bands, and song lists for you to make your decision. We offer bands or DJs. Who are some of the bands or DJs in our local area you would recommend for a wedding, and what type of music do they play? We have many great bands and DJs in our area. Every band has their own flavour, which is why it’s always good to go listen to them somewhere, or at least check out their song list. Lisa Hunt would probably be at the top of our list, and the most popular option with many of our clients. As we book many bands and DJs from the East Coast area, we can offer quality options from many different locations. How do we get in contact with Offbeat Operations? www.offbeatoperations.com.au or email us at offbeat@midcoast.com.au or call (02) 6653 8377.

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Coffs CoffsCoast CoastWedding WeddingGuide Guide

Beach Bodies Come on in and meet the new owners, Tony and Angela Farrell, and their friendly team at Beachbodies Health Club. Beachbodies is perfectly located upstairs in the Jetty Village Shopping Centre and offers something for everyone! We are a 24 hour facility and fully staffed Monday - Friday from 5:15am until 7:15pm, Saturday mornings 7 - 11am and Sunday mornings 8 - 11am. Our club is Fitness Passport friendly and is fully air conditioned for your comfort. There is a lift for disabled access at the northern end of centre. Our crèche is open every weekday morning and evening, also on Saturday and Sunday mornings to accommodate our fantastic new group fitness timetable. We now offer 49 classes per week and if you haven’t met our motivating group fitness instructors, you are missing out! They are vibrant, fun, motivational and full of energy! If you need extra motivation and

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accountability, we have Personal Trainers with exceptional skills and knowledge who can help you to reach your full potential, any specific goals and dreams, or just to help guide you in the right direction. In addition to our Wedding Fit packages available, if you are truly up to changing your habits into a healthy lifestyle, be sure to come check out our 8 week “Kickstart to health and fitness mind and body transformation” challenge starting on 1st February 2016. To secure your place, call 6652 1428. Limited numbers, and it’s filling up quick. Until the end of January, our club is offering “6 weeks for $69”, or you can join from as little as $16 per week. We want everybody to become fitter, healthier and happier. So if this is you, come pay us a visit. Like our Facebook page to stay up to date or visit our web page: www.beachbodies.club. Our email address is info@beachbodies.club

Coffs Coast Wedding Guide

mountain

High PROPOSAL

Bhutan CF S TRAVEL

Magic is real, and Bhutan is where it can be found. Almost all throughout the 20th Century, Bhutan was all but forgotten by the world. Suffice it to say, modern age passed much of Bhutan by.

i Russ and Kirsten. Can December to the most amazing clear, yet cool you tell us a bit about the day … Finally … We were all together standing proposal? on the roof of Africa! Our “summit night/day” Russ: It was on top of the involved a 16 hour hike … and we still weren’t Mt Kilimanjaro, the highest all the way down! Some would argue it was freestanding mountain in the world at harder to descend than ascend. 5,895 m. When we met I was planning a Youth What was the most amazing part of the Charity Challenge to Africa, and it wasn’t long adventure? before I asked Kirsten to accompany me as my Kirsten: Having our entire team make co-expedition leader. It was about then that my the summit together. It was an incredible plan began to take shape. experience made all the more special Kirsten: I had no idea what was by our amazing local guides, going on. But having been sick porters and crew. Our lead for a couple of days on the guide has been climbing It was on top mountain, getting engaged Mt Kilimanjaro for over 20 of Mount was the last thing on my years, summited over 500 e Kilimanjaro, th ng di an mind. st times and has never seen highest free world Russ: With Kirsten not a marriage proposal! Post mountain in the well, I could see my plans climb, we all went and did at 5,89 5 m . ” unravelling, so I started a three day safari, which was to come up with plan B. equally amazing! Fortunately, I didn’t need it, as Russ: Having climbed Kili in all 10 of us stood on the summit 2013, I loved witnessing the team’s together. It was then I unfurled a banner journey on the mountain. It’s a tough I’d brought with me, asking her to marry climb and doesn’t come without personal me. Thankfully she said yes, as 6,000 m can be challenges along the way. I’m really looking a very lonely place! I designed a ring and had forward to the 2016 expedition. it made and did the traditional thing, getting It was all for a great cause as well; can you down on one knee and asking Kirsten to marry tell us a bit about that? me. Russ: As I work for the Westpac Life Saver How did you arrive at the top of the Rescue Helicopter, this has been the main mountain? charity for this climb. The team did an amazing Kirsten: Well, it certainly wasn’t by Westpac job, raising around $23,000 for this vital local Rescue Helicopter! (Although after being sick service. Every team member individually raised I’m sure I wouldn’t have minded at the time!) over $2,500 to be a part of the expedition. Let’s just say I never thought I could walk so We are looking at doing another youth charity slowly. After five nights/six days walking, challenge fundraising trip in December this year. we arrived at the summit at sunrise on 11th Thanks Russ and Kirsten.

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or a land of scenic valleys and bows, normally used for hunting elsewhere. fortresses perched on precarious Tshechu colourful mask dances: are perpeaks, the Himalayan nation’s formed during tshechu.The atmosphere at these isolation now is no longer an festivals is one of celebration and merry making. accident - it is deliberate. Today, In the midst of all this though, don’t forget to Bhutan’s culture and traditions are preserved see the huge undertone of the Buddhist teachand protected along with its forests, and visitors ing relayed though the acts at the venue. Most are regulated. Perhaps the only country in the of the mask dances have religious messages of world without traffic lights - a country governed good versus evil, the impermanence of life and by the philosophy of Gross National Happiness the need to accumulate good merit when alive. the opportunity to experience it isn’t a vacation; Institute of Zorig Chusum: the arts, crafts and it’s a privilege. architecture in Bhutan have their The easiest way to travel to roots in Zorig Chusum. The towBhutan is via Bangkok with an ering dzongs built without onward flight to Paro with the use of a single nail, the Julie’s latest Druk airlines or Bhutan adventure in beautifully sculpted stattend His airlines. When descending ues, the majestic paintings Bhutan was to at Druk th Majesty the Four the into Paro, the international and head stitched images as Gyalpo’s (known an) port of Bhutan, your views of the great saints who ut Fourth King of Bh will be astounding; you visited this nation in giant 60th birthday. ” can view three of the most scroll paintings are all maspectacular mountains: jestic samples of the different Mt Everest 8,848 m, Nepal; arts and crafts of this nation. Jomolhari 7,326 m, Bhutan; Mountain biking: if you thought Annapurna 8,000 m, Nepal. biking was an adventure sport, wait ‘til Six must dos in Bhutan you try it at the highest points in the world Visit Taktsang: if you are in Bhutan and have at many mountain passes in Bhutan, where the not visited the Tigers Nest monastery, your trip high rising ridges almost kiss the sky, and you is incomplete. Tigers Nest is a world renowned get to literally ride among the clouds. Bhutan’s Buddhist heritage, and devotees all over the rugged terrain and serpentine roads that run world visit throughout the year. Tigers Nest across different climatic zones make mountain stands on a precarious ridge, about 1,000 feet biking not only challenging, but also exciting. above the Paro valley. Julie’s latest adventure in Bhutan was to Try Emadatshi: this hot, spicy dish made with attend His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo’s chili and cheese is a national favourite. You (known as the fourth King of Bhutan) 60th should know that in this country, chili is treated birthday. The Dragon King single handedly as a vegetable, not a condiment. When in Bhutransformed the country, gifted democracy, and tan, at least get the real taste of this fiery dish. abdicated the throne way before his age. What Archery: is the national game of Bhutan. A an honour! team of 11 play against another team, shooting Julie has made friends with some astounding a pair of arrows, trying to hit wooden targets Bhutanese actors, diplomats, travel guides and 140 m apart. Archery is fun, because this is the politicians, so her knowledge of this country is only sport in the world where alcohol flows outstanding! She hopes to get back to Bhutan freely during the game. Played both with tradiin April, as Prince William and Princess Kate will tional bamboo bows and imported compound also be visiting her happy place.

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Manning Great Lakes Wedding Guide

38 focus Special Edition

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Manning Great Lakes Wedding Guide

O Bride of the Month O

GRACE�CAIN fÄ

Local couple Grace and Cain recently got married at Wallabi Point. FOCUS caught up with Grace to find out all about their special day.

escribe Cain’s proposal and your engagement ring. We didn’t have a traditional proposal! The decision to marry was a mutual decision; we just knew that we were ready and that we were going to be together forever. Marriage was the natural progression for our relationship. I got to choose my ring myself! It was a white gold diamond bridal set from Proud’s Jewellers. What was the overall theme of your wedding? Butterflies, hydrangeas and a little bit beachy! Describe the timeline of your wedding day. Wish I had made a proper timeline to stick to! In the morning about 9 - 9:30am we went to the club to set up the table dec-

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Tell us about the location of your ceremony - why is this place special to you both? We spend a lot of our spare time at the beach, and Wallabi Point is just so beautiful, and we loved that it looked both north to Old Bar and South towards Saltwater. It was a perfect place for us to marry. The favourite Describe your reception part of our day orations and put on ... y; was our ceremon the chair covers and Our reception was at t. ec rf pe st ju as w it sashes. While I did the Club Old Bar. I hired most nce And our first da table centrepieces, things that we needed a so al as w together ” y. da my mum, aunty and e such as chair covers and th of ht highlig cousin did the chairs. table decorations, then While we were all getting with the help of my mum and the function room ready, aunty and cousin, we decorated my hair and makeup artist was the function room ourselves. already getting started on my two Who were your bridesmaids, bridesmaids. After a quick lunch, it was groomsmen and beautiful flower girls? then my turn to get my hair and makeMy Maid Of Honour was my sister, Jenup done. My mum and aunty finished the nifer Watkins and the Bridesmaid was my reception venue off by setting out the place niece, Emma Watkins. The Best Man was cards and bonbonniere, then we got some Cain’s cousin, Kristopher Woods, and his quick photos at the house (Bombora Blue, Groomsman was his stepbrother, Mitchell Old Bar). The ceremony was supposed to Haines. start at 4pm, but we arrived about 4:20pm! What was on the menu for guests to We then did photos by the beach with the enjoy? bridal party, and went to Club Old Bar for Entrée - garlic prawn skewers with jasmine the reception, which started at 6pm. rice and garlic sauce. Satay chicken skewers

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with cumin rice and naan bread. Main - slow cooked scotch fillet with Diane sauce. Chicken supreme with ricotta and roast pumpkin filling and a creamy pesto sauce. Dessert - double indulge cheesecake. Tiramisu. How far in advance did you start planning? Any hot tips for brides-to-be? Only three months! But we knew what we wanted, and were very quick to organise the major things. We were very lucky to find such a great celebrant and a wonderful reception venue available in December! My biggest tip is to plan in advance a list of the photos you want on the day, so you don’t miss any opportunities, as these things only happen once in a lifetime. Did you find it easy to source everything you needed for your wedding locally? I was able to find most things locally, though I did buy quite a few things online, as we only had a small budget. My wedding shoes were the hardest thing to find! I ended up buying them whilst on a trip to Sydney. What was the favourite part of your wedding day? The favourite part was definitely our ceremony; it was just perfect. And our first dance together was also a highlight of the day. Thanks Grace. focus Special Edition 39

Manning Great Lakes Wedding Guide

Bent on Food We love working with clients to ensure that your wedding day is a beautiful memory. We can point you in the right direction and help out with those extra little touches. We have an assortment of items for hire, including glassware, crockery, a lolly bar and bespoke items. Our homewares store, Bent on Life, is the perfect place to go for wedding gifts. We can also help with colours and special

Forster Golf Club When you think of getting married, make sure you consider Forster Tuncurry Golf Club. With a room hire fee of only $500 for non members and $450 for members, you can’t really go past this venue. Our function room is fully equipped to handle all of your needs and has magnificent views of the fairway and sparkling Pacific Ocean. We can alter the size of the venue to cater for a small, intimate event or a huge celebration with up to 220 guests. Our caterer and kitchen staff (Buko’s Bistro) have extensive experience, providing exceptional cuisine at affordable prices. Whether you’re looking for simple finger food starting from as little as $15 per person or a full five-course feast, we deliver. We allow you to bring in your own cake. Please also make our function team aware of any special food requirements when discussing your menu options. We guarantee professional and attentive staff, peace of mind and value for money, ensuring a truly superb event to cherish and remember.

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pieces for your ceremony and reception. Ask us to paint a piece to match your theme, all with Chalk Paint™ by Annie Sloan. See some of our lovely testimonials below; “Thank you so much for Saturday; the food was delicious and service was wonderful” - Kelly and Graeme Brewer - Wedding at Black Head Surf Club, 21st November 2015. “Thanks for providing great service and food on the night. Everyone enjoyed the food, and we have only had positive comments. Thanks for all your help leading up to the wedding.” - Rachelle and Andrew Atherton - wedding at Pacific Palms SLSC, 14th November 2015. “I want to thank Donna and her amazing team who last night provided A class meals and service for 110 people at my daughter’s wedding. Everybody commented on the amazing food and service provided by ninja waitstaff who appeared with top quality food from nowhere. Would highly recommend Bent on Food. You guys are the best!” Wedding at Cedar Party for Shona and Jordan Szoko, 10th October 2015.

Leaha’s Hair The team at Leaha’s Hair studio Tuncurry and Old Bar has been providing professional high quality bridal styles for the last seven years. Combined with perfection, attention to detail, extensive experience and versatility, Leaha and her team pride themselves on a professional, reliable and calming presence. Specialising in bridal hairstyling and makeup, they combine an eye for detail and artistic talent to create outstanding and personalised looks for their clients. Offering all aspects of hair design from simple to advance, modern to classic, using the latest techniques, including extensive work with hair extensions and pieces. We offer a FREE mobile service and bridal packages to suit every bride and bridal party needs. We have a professional relationship with each and every one of our brides and bridal parties, enabling them to be completely confident with our team of bridal specialists. BRIDAL TIPS • Have flowers or bling in your hairstyle • Have a lipstick that you can use and reapply through the night • Have your hair freshly coloured before your hair trial and wedding day Like us on Facebook to keep up to date with all the wedding styles.

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Manning Great Lakes Wedding Guide

Taree Wingham Race Club The Winning Post Function Centre at the Taree Wingham Race Club has been the venue for the “special day” in the lives of many brides and grooms for many years. Whether the wedding has been for 50 people or up to 300 people, the picturesque setting of the racecourse has provided the ideal backdrop for many weddings and when combined with additions such as ceiling draping and lighting along with your own special touches “as broad as your imagination allows”, the function centre room becomes the ideal place for your wedding day. There are a number menu options available for couples to choose from to suit all tastes and budget requirements. The function centre’s catering department is headed by Function

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Shane Chalker Photography Centre Manager Greg Hile and very talented chef Tegan Lynch. There have been many recent positive comments about the quality of the food and service by couples and guests from many weddings in recent months.

It’s one of the most important days of

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The Taree Wingham Race Club is very proud of its Winning Post Function Centre and looks forward to meeting with many couples in the future to assist you to make your special day one to remember. Call Greg Hile on 6552 1183 or 0409 325 070 to arrange a meeting to discuss the planning of your special day.

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Manning Great Lakes Wedding Guide

Golden Sound TheÄ Ä

Hank MeadowsO

Musician and Harpist

hat’s your musical background ... Why did you choose to learn the harp? Although the majority of my work as a professional harpist has been primarily in the Mid North Coast area, I began my professional life as a musician in Sydney, where I was born, and then moved to London, where I worked for six years as a session musician with big bands, and in recording studios such as EMI-Abbey Road Studios, where The Beatles recorded their famous albums. It was during this period that I heard a busker playing the concert harp, which I immediately became intrigued with, and went in search of the instrument to buy. I purchased my first concert harp, which I still have, and which is now one hundred and sixty years old and still playable. What musical study/training (formal or otherwise) have you completed? I was fortunate enough at that time in London to access lessons with the renowned concert harpist Maria Korchinska, of the Bolshoi Ballet. On returning to Australia I recorded my first album, Harps On My Mind, for recording company R.C.A, which featured my original writing for harp. When did you settle in the Great Lakes area? I moved to the Mid North Coast over thirty

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years ago, settling in Bungwahl near Seal Rocks. I establised myself as a wedding, functions and events harpist working in the Hunter Valley, Newcastle, and local region. There are many different types of harps, of varying sizes, with strings made from nylon or steel - describe the type/s you commonly play ... The harp is a beautiful instrument to play, but also has a fascinating legacy and history, being the oldest instrument in the world and featured on Egyptian artefacts and pottery 5,000 years ago. I play both the Celtic and Concert Harp, which both produce beautiful sounds. I now have Concert Harps made in France by Camac Harps. My two sons, also professional musicians, both play harp and also own French Camac Harps. What are some interesting facts about harps that people generally wouldn’t know? The Celtic Harp is basically a triangle shape that has between 20 and 30 strings with no more than sixty moving parts; whereas, the Concert Harp has 44 strings and two thousand moving parts. It has seven pedals, one for each note of the scale and each pedal has three positions, which provides the sharps and flats. Most people are surprised to find the mechanics of the harp are so very complicated, which makes the Concert Harp such a complex instrument to master.

perform at - are you able to play at both When one thinks of harps, the common belief is that they’re used for beautiful indoor and outdoor venues, for example? Classical or Baroque music, but is this always Some recent places I have played in the last six the case? What’s your musical repertoire? months include the Art Gallery of NSW, and the The harp adds that unique atmosphere to any Museum of Contemporary Art in Sydney, as well location/venue and is a perfect complement as local weddings and functions. to any wedding, function or event, I have travelled to play at many and adds a romantic beauty wedding venues located either on a beach, by a throughout the Mid North river, lakeside or a more Coast stretching from e formal setting such as a For wedding s, th Newcastle, the Hunter most requested chapel or restaurant. Valley and to Port l’s tune is Pachel be bridal It is timeless and Macquarie … Including e Canon in D for th pany elegant, and I match m co the many beaches and ac I d an entry, my repertoire to ring du ds or w lake venues in between. tic an rom complement the My nearest the ceremony. ” moment. destinations are I play as the guests Seal Rocks, The Green arrive, prior to the Cathedral, Forster and Great event/ceremony, and will Lakes Winery, to name a few. All play to suit the atmosphere, of which are memorable! usually ambient and relaxing in a Music and particularly the harp have contemporary style. been lifelong passions, and both continue to For weddings, the most requested tune is provide pleasure every day. Pachelbel’s Canon in D for the bridal entry, Where can readers contact you or find out and I accompany romantic words during the more about you if they’re interested in ceremony. having you play at their function? I also play during the signing of the register, I have a website: and the recessional is always light and festive. http://www.meadowsharpists.com.au Harp is a popular choice during early drinks, as You can also email me: meadowsharpists@ I play a contemporary style which works across hotmail.com or call me: (02) 4997 6130. conversations and provides a cocktail time vibe. Thanks Hank. What type of venues are you able to

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Manning Great Lakes Wedding Guide

Lysar O Photography O and Photobooth

i Lyn. Whereabouts in the beautiful Manning Valley do you call home ... And what areas do you travel to for your photographic work? I live just outside of Taree off Old Bar Rd. We have beautiful State Forest close behind our home. We love where we live; it’s close to town, the beach and bush. I will travel anywhere to photograph. I have photographed a wedding on the Central Coast and also the Sunshine Coast in Queensland. Shortly I will photograph a wedding past Gloucester at the foot of the Barrington. Another of my couples asked me this week if I would travel to Barrington Tops for their preshoot, as they found a pine forest they want to have their photos taken in. For me, it’s about people and making their memories … So yes, I will travel anywhere. Fill us in on a bit of LySar Photography and Photo Booth’s history. When was the business established, and how did it get its name? My daughter and I started the business about five years ago. I have loved photography since I received my first camera when I was a teenager and our daughter, Sarah, also loves photography. During her school holidays I would take a day off work and we would drive around photographing anything and everything together. While driving one day, we played around with what to call those days, throwing around ideas - and the name LySar popped up. We laughed and said it sounded a bit French, the name stuck, and we called those days our LySar days. I had photographed a friend’s daughter’s wedding previously and when her son and his fiance asked me to photograph their wedding, both Sarah and I photographed it. We both 34

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loved the whole experience and working and emotion. Watching two people surrounded together; we toyed with the idea of starting a by those that love them committing their lives business. Another member of the same family to each other is absolutely one of the best days loved our images and asked us to photograph for me. their wedding, so LySar Photography was born. There’s no doubt weddings can be stressful We bought the photobooth in August 2014, occasions, and there’s always so much with the idea of adding something extra to the happening. How do you ensure you get the business and including my husband, Lance. best possible photos you can on the day? Sarah, your daughter, has moved out of the I like to take a “fly on the wall” approach state now, and you mentioned Lance (your most of the time. Some emotions can’t be husband) has since joined the business. orchestrated; they just happen. I like to be in What are your individual areas the background most of the time with of expertise? my camera, ready to capture Yes, Sarah has moved moments. I always look over away - hopefully not where the ceremony is forever - and Lance going to be, so I can I am one of the has joined me with position myself and my most blessed the photobooth assistant to get the people when I side. I’m of course best possible photos. . edding photograph a w the photographer; What are some I love the whole e se I also do all the tips you can give to t experience; I ge y, love jo e business side of our brides and grooms th and capture ” business - emails, n. some “Dos” and io and emot client meetings and “Don’ts” to help make phone calls etc. I am their wedding photos a bookkeeper; that has extra special? helped. • Plan for wet weather before With the photo booth, I the day; you can’t control the operate the computer side and help with weather. Cute gum boots and umbrellas the guests operating the photobooth; look fantastic in wedding photos. Your dress I also design the overlays for the photo can always hide the gum boots if you don’t strips. want them seen. Besides being the muscle when it comes • If you’re planning an outside wedding, to moving the photobooth, Lance has been have a plan B for wet weather and look at fantastic helping guests with the props and the background of your plan B; you don’t guest book. He’s fantastic with the maintenance want unsightly things like wheelie bins in the side of things. We love working together. background of your ceremony shots. What do you most love about shooting • Have a wedding pre shoot. I have found this weddings? to be one of the best things to do pre-wedding I am one of the most blessed people when for couples. How many of us are comfortable I photograph a wedding. I love the whole in front of a camera? Maybe if we’re taking experience; I get to see and capture the joy, love fun selfies, but in front of a photographer’s

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camera? If you’re a model yeah OK, but for the rest of us, it’s not something we do often if at all. I have found it relaxes my couples; they learn how I work and I get to see how they are together naturally before the big day. • Get to know your photographer; make sure you like them and their style. Your photo images of that special and amazing day can’t be redone, and they are your lasting visual memory of that day. Tell us more about the photobooth service you offer. How does it work? Photo booths are fun at any function! When we’re hired, we arrive just over an hour before the hired time and set up. Guests are able to go into our photo booth with or without props and have images taken. We love hearing the laughter coming out of our booth. Our large photobooth is wheelchair friendly and can fit a lot of guests in at once. A graphic design or company logo of the event can be designed to suit your event. The photo strips are printed at the same time for guests to take with them, and a DVD of the images is posted after the event with all the images. We are able to print enough photo strips for every guest, as well as one for the guest album if required. Lance and I are both there helping at every stage of the process. What other types of photo shoots do you specialise in? Portraits - whether that’s individual, family, friends. Pregnancy and pets. I also love macro photography, nature and landscapes. Where can readers find out more about you or contact you? We have Facebook page, LySar Photography & Photobooth, and a website: www.lysarphotography.com or via email: lysarphotography@gmail.com or phone 0415 386 120. Thanks Lyn. focus Special Edition 43

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Manning Great Lakes Wedding Guide

LOVED

IN PRINT AND ONLINE

Manning Great Lakes Wedding Guide

Lysar O Photography O

AMBER

and Photobooth

loved the whole experience and working and emotion. Watching two people surrounded together; we toyed with the idea of starting a by those that love them committing their lives business. Another member of the same family to each other is absolutely one of the best days loved our images and asked us to photograph for me. their wedding, so LySar Photography was born. There’s no doubt weddings can be stressful We bought the photobooth in August 2014, occasions, and there’s always so much with the idea of adding something extra to the happening. How do you ensure you get the business and including my husband, Lance. best possible photos you can on the day? Sarah, your daughter, has moved out of the I like to take a “fly on the wall” approach state now, and you mentioned Lance (your most of the time. Some emotions can’t be husband) has since joined the business. orchestrated; they just happen. I like to be in What are your individual areas the background most of the time with of expertise? my camera, ready to capture Yes, Sarah has moved moments. I always look over away - hopefully not where the ceremony is forever - and Lance going to be, so I can I am one of the has joined me with position myself and my most blessed the photobooth assistant to get the when I people side. I’m of course best possible photos. photograph a wedding. the photographer; What are some I love the whole I also do all the tips you can give to see experience; I get love joy, business side of our brides and grooms and capture the business - emails, - some “Dos” and and emotion. ” client meetings and “Don’ts” to help make phone calls etc. I am their wedding photos a bookkeeper; that has extra special? helped. • Plan for wet weather before With the photo booth, I the day; you can’t control the operate the computer side and help with weather. Cute gum boots and umbrellas the guests operating the photobooth; look fantastic in wedding photos. Your dress I also design the overlays for the photo can always hide the gum boots if you don’t strips. want them seen. Besides being the muscle when it comes • If you’re planning an outside wedding, to moving the photobooth, Lance has been have a plan B for wet weather and look at fantastic helping guests with the props and the background of your plan B; you don’t guest book. He’s fantastic with the maintenance want unsightly things like wheelie bins in the side of things. We love working together. background of your ceremony shots. What do you most love about shooting • Have a wedding pre shoot. I have found this weddings? to be one of the best things to do pre-wedding I am one of the most blessed people when for couples. How many of us are comfortable I photograph a wedding. I love the whole in front of a camera? Maybe if we’re taking experience; I get to see and capture the joy, love fun selfies, but in front of a photographer’s

“

perform at - are you able to play at both When one thinks of harps, the common belief is that they’re used for beautiful indoor and outdoor venues, for example? Classical or Baroque music, but is this always Some recent places I have played in the last six the case? What’s your musical repertoire? months include the Art Gallery of NSW, and the The harp adds that unique atmosphere to any Museum of Contemporary Art in Sydney, as well location/venue and is a perfect complement as local weddings and functions. to any wedding, function or event, I have travelled to play at many and adds a romantic beauty wedding venues located either on a beach, by a throughout the Mid North river, lakeside or a more Coast stretching from formal setting such as a For weddings, the Newcastle, the Hunter most requested chapel or restaurant. Valley and to Port tune is Pachelbel’s bridal It is timeless and Macquarie … Including the Canon in D for elegant, and I match the many beaches and entry, and I accompany my repertoire to during lake venues in between. romantic words complement the My nearest the ceremony. ” moment. destinations are I play as the guests Seal Rocks, The Green arrive, prior to the Cathedral, Forster and Great event/ceremony, and will Lakes Winery, to name a few. All play to suit the atmosphere, of which are memorable! usually ambient and relaxing in a Music and particularly the harp have contemporary style. been lifelong passions, and both continue to For weddings, the most requested tune is provide pleasure every day. Pachelbel’s Canon in D for the bridal entry, Where can readers contact you or find out and I accompany romantic words during the more about you if they’re interested in ceremony. having you play at their function? I also play during the signing of the register, I have a website: and the recessional is always light and festive. http://www.meadowsharpists.com.au Harp is a popular choice during early drinks, as You can also email me: meadowsharpists@ I play a contemporary style which works across hotmail.com or call me: (02) 4997 6130. conversations and provides a cocktail time vibe. Thanks Hank. What type of venues are you able to manning-great lakes focus.

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ONLINE FLIP BOOK

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and

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INTRODUCING THE FOCUS MINI-MAG

TIM f

Musician and Harpist

Golden Sound TheÄ Ä

HankMeadowsO

hat’s your background in the ManningGreat Lakes area? I was a bona fide local until I hit my 20s. I grew up in Forster after being born in Manning Base Hospital in 1988. I attended Forster Public and then Forster High and got my first full-time job in a local pharmacy after leaving school. Whilst I did move away and travel a bit in my early twenties and now reside in Tamworth, I still consider Forster my home. My mum and dad still live in the house we grew up in and my brother, extended family and many friends all still live there. With Tamworth to Forster being a mere three hour drive, I often go home for weekends. What are some of your favourite memories? Growing up in Forster is what idyllic childhoods are made of. Some of my favourite memories include fishing and mud crabbing with my dad, spending summers swimming under the bridge, weekends at the beach and afternoons riding bikes around the neighbourhood. But most special to me were sleepovers at my nan’s house. She owned a mobile home in Smugglers Cove Caravan Park, which was the coolest thing at the time. The park had a pool, a games rooms and a bunch of kids my age holidaying every year for the summer. I once spent every night of the school holidays at Nan’s place, purely because it was just so much fun there. Nan passed away within a week of me first moving away and whilst I still miss her terribly, I cherish the memories. You have a story to tell about how and where you met the love of your life. Tell us how it all unfolded ... Tim and I met in Byron Bay at Bluesfest, an annual blues and roots festival held every year over Easter. It was March 27th 2013 - my birthday to be exact. My friend Lisa and I had bought our tickets

nearly 10 months beforehand. This would be Lisa’s and my third year going together, after funnily enough meeting and camping next door to each other at Bluesfest 2010. We had planned our arrival knowing full well that they fill the campgrounds from the back first and in order of how you arrive. We had learnt from previous years that if you get there in the early afternoon, you are pretty much guaranteed to get one of the best campsites there - in the top paddock, which doesn’t flood, and right next to the festival entrance. Anyway, we had timed it perfectly this year. Not only did we did get the good campsite, we set up camp right next door to Tim and his mate, Kris. At a festival that can gather crowds of up to 100,000 people over its five day duration, the odds of finding the love of your life camping next door are pretty slim, if you ask me. Whilst we did make friends with Tim, Kris and our other fellow neighbours instantly, forming a rather large group of friends, nothing romantic actually happened between Tim and I at this festival. We were all too busy having fun and partying. At the end we said our goodbyes and all promised to keep in touch. Tim and I did keep in touch, messaging each other here and there, but nothing too serious. It was months later though, that a few of us from Bluesfest decided we should go to Splendour In The Grass, another music festival held annually in Byron Bay. In the end, only Tim, myself and another friend got tickets. So in July, the three of us arrived at Splendour together and set up camp. What were your first thoughts when you met him? I could tell from the start that Tim was caring and kind. He had brought his motorbike to Bluesfest and would happily ride around asking the neighbours if they needed anything brought down from the general store. One day I had gone to have a shower at our campground, and the line-up was huge. I gave up waiting and came back to camp, hot, dirty and

tired. Tim said he knew of other showers available that were never busy, and he rode me all the way down there on his motorbike. And now you’re engaged! Congratulations. How did he pop the question? He asked me to marry him on the roof of our house! I’d been saying for months that I wanted a skylight installed in our kitchen, as it was quite dark during the day. For our two year anniversary Tim bought me one, and we spent the day together installing it. The next day Tim asked me to come up on the roof to check out the skylight now that it was finished. I obligingly followed him up there, we admired our work, and then he got down on one knee and asked if I would marry him. What’s the process of planning your wedding been like? A little bit stressful, but a whole lot of fun. I’ve tried not to let the whole thing consume me. I’ve just done bits and pieces here and there, and it all seems to be coming together nicely. Some tips you can share with other brides-to-be? Follow your heart and your own style. Don’t let yourself be pressured into anything when it comes to your wedding decisions; create a day that reflects you and your fiancé. When and where will you get married? We have decided to get married on our property in Tamworth. We chose Easter Saturday, March 26th this year, to tie the knot as it not only marks three years since we first met at Bluesfest, but it’s a long weekend, so it makes it easier for out of town guest to travel … And it’s also my birthday the next day, so an extra reason to party! Future plans? Our home for now is Tamworth. We love our property; it really is a little slice of paradise. As we already have quite a few fur babies, it would be nice to add some little human ones to the mix one day! Thanks Amber … All the best! focus Special Edition 45

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Ultimate BBQ Ultimate BBQ Catering is a company focused on barbecue food from around the world, established in 2013. We offer an alternative service for those looking for something different for their wedding or special event. Ultimate BBQ Catering offers a range of barbecue food; from tacos to paella to American style low and slow barbecue. Our speciality, however, is Argentinian asado, where we butterfly a whole lamb, pig or goat and cook it over open fire. This method creates a dramatic spectacle, and the resulting meat is succulent and delicious. We also have a range of vegetarian and vegan offerings, and a variety of salads, sides and sauces. Ultimate BBQ Catering can cater for up to 150 guests. We have an outdoor kitchen, so we are able to cater anywhere, from backyard to paddock. Our service includes preparation, serving, and cleaning of anything related to the meal. We have been catering events within a 200 kilometre radius of Armidale. We have different catering packages available, from finger food menus to tacos and sliders to a full sit down meal with lots of sides. Ultimate BBQ specialises in relaxed and unique events. We cook fresh, vibrant food with spectacle, flair and quality.

The Welder’s Dog Event Bar The Welder’s Dog mobile style. Did you know that The Welders dog can come to you? That’s right, we can bring our portable bar and skilled staff to your function/event. Our go anywhere bar can cater for big and small crowds and with our superb range of craft ales, we can cater it to suit all occasions and tastebuds; our portable unit could be the perfect addition to your special day. Our stylish setup includes a freestanding bar that can be placed just about anywhere from the paddock to the boardroom and everywhere in between. We use the highest quality components, and our friendly staff will go the extra mile to make sure you and your guests have a superb event. We also have a marquee, which allows us to operate in most weather conditions. If you are wanting to do something special for your wedding or next event, give us a call; we are happy to tailor a package to your budget, style and most importantly, taste!

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New England ÄÄ

EVENTO

Domes

Sam Hodges

et’s start by telling us what a geodesic dome is ... A geodesic dome is a truly ingenious way to enclose space! Basicaly, it is a hemispherical structure made up of triangles with the vertices all aligned with the surface of a hypothetical sphere. It is this combination of triangles and the spherical alignment of the hubs that make the dome so strong. The frame can easily hold well over 1,500 kg evenly distributed. That’s more than three times its weight! Ok, so it’s one of the largest in Australia. Why a dome and not a normal marquee? The geodesic dome is one of the most efficient ways to enclose space ever conceived! I chose to build a dome mainly because of the space advantages and aesthetics. It is a free span structure; that means no internal supports. That combined with the structure’s strength, and you have a super versatile space! It’s a space which is also super attractive before any decorations are added! The perfect canvas for a perfect event! How big is it actually? Our dome stands an impressive 8.5 m tall and 14 m in diameter at the base; its circumference is 44 m, and it has a floor area of 144 m². That’s huge! How many people could you fit into it? That’s enough space for up to 300 - 350 standing, and seating for 150 at round tables

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and 200 in rows. What inspired you to build such a structure? I was originally attracted to the geodesic dome as a project, as I was in need of a large portable tent for recreation. I chose bamboo for the members and poly irrigation pipe that I heated and squashed for connectors. It took a heck of a lot of persistence, but six months later I had erected my first dome! Standing just over 3 m tall and 6 m Our dome wide, it was quite stands an the prototype! sive 8. 5 m tall es pr im Immediately eter and 14 m in diam there was huge its ; se ba at the 44 m interest in the circumference is ea ar or dome. and it has a flo of 144 m²” I saw the potential of domes for weddings, concerts, made for the dome ... trade shows and more! The next task to overcome Through the week I am a was the cover. As you could carpenter for Goodwood projects, imagine, you can’t just walk into a Armdiale’s premier solar passive builder shop and buy a dome cover. Even finding - a skill that certainly came in handy someone to custom make a cover for a building domes. On the weekends I structure that big and with such an unusual run an event lighting business, lighting up shape was an epic task! weddings, functions, concerts, etc. I eventually found a company in China that The dome was the perfect addition to really had domes down pat. They made my my lighting arsenal! A lighting truss with a cover from super tough total blockout, difference! 850 gsm vinyl canvas with a clear front and Tell us about the cover you had custom when it arrived on our shores .... it fit like a

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glove! I was as pleased as punch. I had very expensive white icing on the huge cake I baked! It’s pretty amazing to look at from the outside; it looks spectacular inside as well. Tell us about some of the customisations you can do inside? When it comes to making a particular event perfect, the versatility of a dome vs a traditional marquee really shines. The modern yet elegant design lends itself to any decor or style, especially when it’s lit up inside and out. Lighting options inside and outside

New England Wedding Guide

Once it’s up, t this dome is no is It ! re going anywhe 0 km wind rated to 12 d is an ds in w an hour oof, pr totally weather y in ra perfect for a wedding day. ”

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the dome really are endless! From simple coloured uplighting outside and chandeliers and candelabras inside, to full 3D mapped projections transforming the outside and inside into anything imaginable - a portable IMAX theatre! Any mood can be both achieved and accented. Silk drapes can be hung in a myriad of ways, and combined with long (up to 6m) chandeliers and festoon and fairy lights to achieve heavenly effects. The dome can be divided into smaller spaces or left open, depending on the function. So it protects guests against the elements? Once it’s up, this dome is not going anywhere! It is wind rated to 120 km an hour winds and is totally weather proof, perfect for a rainy wedding day. And if the sun should start to shine, it will come streaming in the huge clear front window, giving you the best of both worlds, whatever the weather! What events can be held in the dome? Our dome is perfect for any event, anywhere! A stellar way to make your wedding/event extra special! Thanks Sam. new Special englandEdition focus. 49 19 focus

New England Wedding Guide

Courtneys Jewellers Courtneys have been very proud to serve the people of Armidale and districts in our trade for 46 years. Over the years, generations have trusted us with their wedding and engagement ring selections, and it is honour to have shared these special moments with so many locals. Choosing the ring After the couple has decided that an engagement is right for them, they should begin to consider choosing an engagement ring. In some cases, couples choose the ring together, while in others the bride-to-be may hint about her preferences but let her groom-to-be make the final choice. No matter how the ring is eventually chosen, couples should consider: • Engagement ring prices, including their available budget for the ring • Engagement ring designs, including types of metals, diamond shapes, and carat sizes • Whether or not an heirloom engagement ring is appropriate or desirable • Stone type: most couples opt for traditional diamond rings, but non-diamond engagement rings can be lovely alternatives. Courtneys Jewellers can source just about any ring to suit different styles and tastes.

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New England Wedding Guide

Marissa Cross Ella Baché

Coffs Harbour Racing Club On your special day, we would like to ensure it is a memorable occasion that you will look back on and cherish for years to come. At Coffs Harbour Racing Club, you can celebrate in style, with three venues to choose from.

Wedding

MAKE UP

Tips

Simply say “I do” to the following bridal makeup rules and prepare to wow!

o: 1. Make sure you have your trial at least three weeks before the wedding. If you plan on using fake tan for the big day, have a test run before your makeup trial, so that your artist can see what colour your skin becomes with the tan. 2. Wear a white T-shirt if you’re having your makeup test in a store, so that you can see how the makeup looks against a pale colour and take a picture of yourself in daylight (with no flash) to see how it looks. 3. Bring references to your makeup trial. Start looking for images of makeup that you really like and bring them with you on the day. But be realistic. A lot of photos from magazines and social media are heavily air brushed and photoshopped. 4. Remember that bridal makeup needs to have enough colour to compensate for the whiteness of the dress. There’s a big difference between everyday clothes and a wedding dress, so there should be difference in your makeup too. Don’t: 1. Be scared of going a bit brighter.

can be sure they’ll stay where you put Neutral, brown, and pale lip colours can look washed out in photographs, so them. choose a lipstick that’s one or two shades 3. Go too glossy or too matte. It’s best brighter than what you would normally to avoid lipsticks at either end of the wear. If you usually wear a neutral hue, it texture scale; too glossy and they’ll only should be worn as a base, with last five minutes, whilst too a pink or rose colour on matte and they may top. If you typically leave your lips dry wear dark lipstick, and cakey by the use that as Remember that time it’s the needs the base, bridal makeup moment to kiss ur lo co and apply to have enough e th r fo e your groom. A at a brighter to compens s. es dr e th of ss moisturising, pink on top whitene

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g difference

There’s a bi satin-y finish to give the ay clothes between everyd colour a lift. lipstick is best dress, so and a wedding e nc re Pinks, roses for a wedding diffe there should be o. ” to and plums are p eu ak this kind of m ur in yo all great, classic formula will keep choices for brides. your lips looking their 2. Forget to decide best and will wear off what kind of maintenance the most evenly and naturally; you’d prefer for the day. For several thin layers, blotted between example, are you happy to check applications will give the most longyou’re looking okay throughout lasting finish. the day, or do you want to just 4. Rush. Allow at least 45 minutes to forget about your makeup once it’s an hour for make-up application on the on? Waterproof mascara is an obvious wedding day. requisite, but it’s also worth considering cream eyeshadows that really set - you

Marissa Cross.

Our property offers a serene and tranquil setting for your reception, with magnificent views of the picturesque Dorrigo mountain ranges in the background. Situated just minutes away from Coffs Harbour city centre with ample off-street parking, our three venues vary in style and size so as to suit your specific needs and budget. As part of our services, you may hold your ceremony onsite, with the mountains as an idyllic backdrop. Whether you are wanting a casual finger food style, a full three course dinner or a specialty themed extravaganza, we provide a full range of delicious and healthy menus using the freshest produce, with special dietary needs catered for. So let us take the worry out of organising your special day. Our events team can assist you with planning, designing or provide contact details for contractors to create your uniquely memorable experience. We look forward to the opportunity in giving YOUR wedding reception the WOW factor it deserves.

The Ultimate Event Experts Catering for the intimate to the imposing, for 50 to 750 guests

We’ll ensure YOUR Special Day is a memorable occasion you will cherish for years to come

Catering for all your needs and any budget - from casual cocktail styles to 3 course plated dinners.

Ph: 02 6652 1488 E: events@coffsracingclub.com.au www.coffsracingclub.com.au new Special englandEdition focus. 51 21 focus

New England Wedding Guide

Jen & Chris Shephard 05.12.2015

Georgina & Phillip Franklin 24.01.15

Wedding held at TAS and our reception was at Echidna Gully. We arrived by chopper and had an 8 minute fireworks display, which both were surprises for our guests! Photographer: Simon Scott Photography.

Wedding was held in a marquee at Mum and Dad’s ("Ellowera") and done by the Bowling Club. Photography: James Day.

Lov� Birds Chantelle & Robert Waters 07.11.2015

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Natalie & Dominic Bower 21.11.2015

Wedding held at the Gostwyck chapel. Photographer: Karrie Bourke

Wedding held at Mary and St. Joseph’s Cathedral. Photographer: Rachel Deane. Finishing Image: Photography Tamworth.

Carlee & Peter Ince 07.11.2015

David & Sarah Farmer 28.03.2015

Wedding held at Saumarez Homestead. Photographer: Peta Cooper.

Wedding held at the Uniting Church in Echidna Gully. Photographer: James Brooks.

New England Wedding Guide

Celebrate your Wedding in Style All you need is Love and Flowers The team at Rosemerin love flowers. We are dedicated to providing exquisite flowers for your special day. We take the greatest care in sourcing the freshest supplies to create beautiful designs at affordable prices. From bouquets to buttonholes, centre pieces to floral crowns, our experienced staff take great pride in the work they produce and relish utilising their artistic flair. No matter how simple or elaborate the requests, we have a budget to suit everyone. Working with different styles from vintage right through to contempory design is a specialty for our experienced team. Seasonality of flowers can be a complication; however, with the help of our wonderful local producers, and our devoted suppliers from all over Australia, we are able to source most

requests year round. Hiring items for your special event is made easy with our extensive choice of vases, table mirrors, urns, topiary trees, candelabras, and even a wedding arch! We have a supply of battery operated candles, fairy lights and beautiful cut glass tea candle holders for hire, which look stunning in all settings. For those who like a memento from their wedding, we can supply quality silk flowers in many varieties and colours for bouquets and arrangements. As we are a family owned business, we love being part of the local community and in extension love to be involved in your special day. Please follow us on Facebook and Instagram to see some of the beautiful flowers and wonderful creations that we produce.

A wedding celebration should be a stylish event to remember, and style is what the Quality Hotel Powerhouse is renowned for. With several wedding spaces and a team of experienced and professional event managers, the Powerhouse offers a sophisticated setting for a celebration of exquisite food, wine and service. The Quality Hotel Powerhouse caters for wedding ceremonies, receptions, as well as engagement parties, high teas and bridal showers. The function rooms, set up with red carpet, fresh flowers and decorations suited to your taste and wedding style ensures the event is a class above. Our bridal suites, beautifully presented with champagne, strawberries and chocolates and rose petals across the king bed, spa, dining room or living room - are just a taste of the luxury and thoughtfulness provided at every turn. We also invite you to experience delicious cuisine

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showcasing the finest fresh, local seasonal produce. All wedding set menus have been created by our executive chef, David Hill, and feature beautifully cooked dishes that will appeal to every taste. Choose from a range of set menus to suit your wedding style and budget that we know will delight your guests. We ensure every taste is catered for - weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re flexible and treat every wedding individually. Bridal Shower High Teas are available at the Powerhouse. You can look forward to this stunning bridal package experience, with exquisitely beautiful High Teas, set with antique china and tiered cake-stands with a delectable array of delightful, appetising treats, French champagne, coffees and handcrafted French teas. For more information, please call our friendly professional team on 6772 7788.

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Celebrant

ÄÄ

PETER O

HOWE

FOCUS catches up with born and bred local, Peter Howe, as he talks about his passion for being a Celebrant and more ...

ow long have you lived in the area? Tell us about your family ... I was born in Armidale and have lived here all of my life. Being a local and having nurtured many friendships and acquired many valuable colleagues during my working life, serving the community in my role is a daily honour and privilege. My parents were local and raised nine children. Mum was an active member of the Church, St Vincent de Paul and Legacy. Dad spent many hours tending both the hospital and Teacher’s College vast gardens. The depth of their community involvement was a great inspiration, and I am ever grateful for the example they set to be actively involved. I have two older sons. My wife, Joy, and I have two daughters. When and why did you become a Celebrant? After over 30 years in the retail sector, with the primary focus on providing customer service, I made a career change and started work as the Accounts Manager with Piddingtons. Soon after, an opportunity arose to fulfil the role of Principal Celebrant with the Company. That is where it all began. Many people then asked why I didn’t celebrate weddings - something I hadn’t thought about. After enough persuasion, I decided to do the Marriage Celebrant Course, and that’s how my totally celebrancy began. What type of ceremonies do you do? I celebrate weddings, officiate at funerals, commitment services, renewing of vows and naming ceremonies. Having also completed my Certificates in Grief Counselling in 2014, I am able to assist those who have suffered the loss of a loved one and may be struggling. Your family are also involved in some of these functions; tell us more? My daughter, Bridgette, manages the music and PA System. She ensures that

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once the couple have chosen the music, it is downloaded and available for immediate use. She accompanies me to all wedding practices and the actual ceremony and controls the PA system, making sure the microphone is at the right volume and the music is played at the correct time. This is vital and timing is crucial, as it sets the mood and affects the whole ceremony. Bridgette is very professional and pedantic. Sometimes it feels like I am working for her! Monique attends Macquarie University, Sydney, but eagerly assists in all aspects of ceremonies The best part is lp when home. being able to he ll A . le op pe to Joy ensures all and relate e ar I do the ceremonies of our equipment particularly during ople’s pe in es on st mile is clean, highly , such a difficult time, le ab or lives - all mem presentable and when emotions are d an y some happ is my chief editor. ” d. sa running high. I find it e m so , joyous She has an artistic an honour to be chosen flair and great eye for to help give a beautiful detail. Everything from and memorable farewell to the paperwork to the signing a loved one - to capture and table is just right. We use relevant highlight the important things they props such as doves, a feather quill pen, treasured in life to showcase their life a framed romantic quote and beautifully in the short time span of a funeral service. adorned chair covers to add to the bride How many times have we thought we knew and groom’s special day. Joy also prepares someone so well, to learn an amazing fact the special keepsake folder of the ceremony about their life from a eulogy? and covers desktop publishing tasks. Weddings are such a special celebration; How would you describe the feeling of again, it is an honour to be the person “out being a part of these special ceremonies, the front”, assisting couples, being part of this and what do you love most about what special time in their lives. I have met many lovely you do? people and witnessed this important event It’s actually very humbling and very rewarding as two young lives start this unique journey to become so close and be part of people’s together. lives. People remember the way you treat Tell us about some of your fondest them and the way you make them feel, and moments over the years ... always of how you deliver the service; they The best part is being able to help and know you genuinely care and are concerned relate to people. All the ceremonies I do are about what they want. With regard to funerals, milestones in people’s lives - all memorable, I treat people as I would like to be treated some happy and joyous, some sad. Just being

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able to help people, even organising a funeral - I spend as much time talking to the family and make it a celebration and thanksgiving for the person’s life, thus making each ceremony personal. This comforts families and takes as much pressure off them as possible in their sadness; this they really appreciate. As for weddings, it’s their special day and to see the couple from the first meeting to their day of marriage is very rewarding. All ceremonies are rewarding; a lot of satisfaction is gained from being part of these events. People are very appreciative, and I am constantly in awe at their responses. Plans for the future? As long as I am able, I will continue what I am doing, to reach and assist as many people as I am able. To travel further afield, maybe celebrate interstate - widen my circle. To hone and update my Celebrancy skills to consolidate my expertise. To grow my business. To continue to be part of people’s lives in an active way. To be able to give the answer to everyone who asks the questions: who am I serving? Who am I being good to? Who am I lifting up? Thanks Peter.

New England Wedding Guide

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