Bride 84

HAPPILY EVER AFTER

SPRING ISSN -

21 PAGES OF REAL WEDDING INSPO

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COUTURIER CONFESSIONS WE GO INSIDE AUSTRALIA’S TOP BRIDAL BOUTIQUES BIG-DAY BEAUTY J-LO'S GLOW, MARGOT'S LIPS AND MORE CELEB LOOKS

Y U G E H S T D N U S O E F R D U YO FOR THE N OW

Annette

of Melbourne Couture

103 CHARLES STREET SEDDON VIC 3011 PHONE: (03) 9687 3981 W W W. A N N E T T E O F M E L B O U R N E . C O M . A U

crocecolosimo.com.au

crocecolosimo.com.au

Photography / Immerse photography Jewellery / Jeanette Maree Jewellery Make up and hair / Magical Makeovers

Brisbane Springlands Dr, Slacks Creek QLD 4127 P: (07) 3806 0008 | E: info@luvbridal.com Gold Coast Unit 2, 2-6 Breakwater Dr, Robina QLD 4226 P: (07) 5559 0009 | E: goldcoast@luvbridal.com Harbour Town (Outlet) Unit 1, 1 Gateway Dr, Biggera Waters QLD 4216 P: (07) 5537 1012 | E: harbourtown@luvbridal.com

Parramatta Level 2, 197 Church St, Parramatta NSW 2150 P: (02) 9687 1444 | E: parramatta@luvbridal.com Melbourne 714 Mount Alexander Rd, Moonee Ponds VIC 3039 P: (03) 9372 8877 | E: melbourne@luvbridal.com Perth Unit 4, 460 Canning Hwy, Como WA 6152 P: (08) 9313 1477 | E: perth@luvbridal.com Adelaide – OPENING SOON! Rundle Mall, Adelaide SA 5000 | E: adelaide@luvbridal.com

www.luvbridal.com.au

Angela

AVAILABLE THROUGH

1st oor, 340 Collins Street, Melbourne Telephone 03 9642 8124 and other selected stockists throughout Australia For stockists freecall 1800 629 054 www.wendymakin.com

BY APPOINTMENT ONLY 5/120 Cambridge St, Collingwood, VIC 3066 - Work mobile 0429 530 038 - Mobile 0409 549 186 facebook.com/CraigBraybrookCouture - Instagram: CraigBraybrookeCouture www.craigbraybrook.com.au

Photo by Melissa Hobbs for InďŹ nity Photography Hair and make-up by Saphire Gaskas

Heavenly

Collections

exclusively

stunning collections featuring elegant, romantic, classic and sophisticated styles from some of the top names in bridal gowns

By Appointment 335 Windsor Road Baulkham Hills 2153 P 02 9639 9699 | M 0418 656 642 www.heavenlycollections.com.au

LILLI MARCS 11 William Street Paddington NSW 2021 Australia 02 9357 4408 info@lillimarcs.com.au www.lillimarcs.com.au

fashion 36

LACED UP

It’s been a wedding gown go-to for centuries, but as these accessories show, lace isn’t just for dresses...

38

HEAVY METAL

The easiest way to inject some sparkle into your big day? These eye-catching metallic accents.

40

TOUCH ME

Get textured with luxurious leathers and the so est of silks and chiffons – because you can touch this.

48

OFF THE RUNWAY

Your need-to-know wrap-up of the latest trends, ho est accessories and game-changing bridal designers from Australia and around the globe. Your dress mission just got much easier.

54

LIGHT & SHADE

Step into the spotlight with a beautiful couture gown made especially for your ‘look at me’ moment.

74

HAPPY DAYS

When your gown is this fabulous, your groom this handsome and you’ve just said “I do”, there’s only one thing le to do... celebrate!

93

WHICH BRIDE ARE YOU?

A so-hot-right-now trendse er? Boho babe? Classic princess? Vintage vixen? Whichever one you are, you’ll find your big-day style at Etsy.com.

spring CONTENTS

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118 182

real-life weddings 114

This Sydney couple may have said their “I do”s in Alicia’s hometown of Pi sburgh, but there was still a nod to Ben’s Italian heritage on their big day.

116

LAUREN & MICHAEL

This pair kept things local by tying the knot near their hometowns on the NSW/Victorian border – with their ceremony in one state and reception in the other!

118

the details

ALICIA & BEN

142 CONFESSIONS OF A COUTURIER

166

Bride goes inside 10 boutiques in Sydney and Melbourne to find out what really makes Australia’s top bridal designers tick.

40

166 THE RISE OF THE GROOMZILLA

OK, there are two of you on the day, but what happens when your groom goes more ‘zilla’ than you? Bride investigates this new breed.

JULIA & DOMINIC

This couple celebrated their romance with a storybook Southern Highlands se ing, vibrant colour scheme and plenty of personal touches.

122 ANGELA & KARL

An arty Hobart location was perfect for these top-secret nuptials.

124 KERRY & AARON

Not even a scorching Adelaide summer could spoil the romance of this winery wedding.

171 134 CHENDA & LEIGH

Going for festivities over formalities, this laid-back couple got the relaxed wedding they were a er.

136 GEMMA & ANDY

To pull together their rustic country wedding in less than five months, this couple called on family and friends.

126 LOUISE & RICHARD

An old tradition got a new spin at this chic city celebration in Melbourne.

130 KATE & NICK

This Hong Kong-based pair returned to Australia to get married among the vines of WA’s beautiful Margaret River wine region.

132 ALIX & PAUL

A last-minute change of venue didn’t phase this Melbourne couple, who took it all in their stride and still managed to create a magical day.

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beauty 106 HOLLYWOOD GLAM

You’ve got the red carpet-worthy dress, so now you need the A-lister make-up to match. Beauty editor Rachael Mannell has the inside word on how to make your fave celeb’s look work for your big day.

DO YOU HAVE SPOTLIGHT STRESS?

You were overjoyed when he put a ring on it, but between the planning and the parties, panic has set in.

Here’s how to avoid a freak-out and enjoy the festivities.

travel 178 HONEYMOONS NEAR AND FAR

Find your perfect post-wedding holiday, with or without a passport.

182 WHY IS EVERYONE GOING TO MEXICO?

Ask any recently hitched couple where they went for their honeymoon and chances are they’ll all mention one country...

187 FALL INTO PLACE

It may be located in one of Australia’s most popular ski destinations, but there are plenty of reasons to visit this quirky boutique hotel a er the snow has melted.

RESTAURANT & BAR Surrounded by sea, combining Monte Carlo elegance and vintage sailing club charm,REGATTA Rose Bay with it’s beautiful light-filled spaces is one of Sydney’s prettiest harbour-side dining rooms Available for exclusive hire, REGATTA is the perfect venue for small weddings and intimate ceremonies

REGATTA Restaurant & Bar 594 New South Head Road, Rose Bay 2029 +61 2 9327 6561 www.regattarosebay.com instagram@regattarosebay

facebook.com/regattarosebay

ED’S LETTER

in this issue

by LISA O’BRIEN

Welcome to the new-look Bride! This issue, we’ve fallen head over heels for The One. Nope, not the guy (although he’s pre y great, too). We’re talking about the dress...

Cover photography TINTIN HEDBERG Hair and make-up JUSTIN HENRY/ VIVIEN’S CREATIVE Gown CRAIG BRAYBROOK COUTURE

bride.com.au EDITOR Lisa O’Brien ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER & FASHION EDITOR Kirstie Armiger-Grant CONTENT PRODUCER Stephanie Mikkelsen ART DIRECTORS Robert Bertagni Glenn Moa

I

might not be able to recall my internet banking password or what night the bins are supposed to go out, but ask me what I was wearing at any given time in my life and I can give you a full description down to the last bu on and zip.

There was the paisley handkerchief dress I rocked at my Year 10 formal, and the slightly less vomit-inducing but equally cringeworthy burgundy satin number I wore in Year 12.

I sported a pastel print Rodeo Show cocktail dress as maid of honour at my sister’s wedding earlier this year, and – a er about seven nervous costume changes – se led on a black Topshop shi dress for my ďŹ rst date with my boyfriend.

But when it comes to outďŹ ts for signiďŹ cant moments in your life, there aren’t many that will outdo your wedding dress. It’s the gown you’ll be wearing as you walk down the aisle to say “I doâ€? to your soulmate, and the one you’ll be hitching up later to

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Naomi Chrisoulakis, Phoebe Hooke, Rachael Mannell, Sonia Taylor

hit the d-oor with your girls. It will be displayed in the photos on your wall for years to come, and maybe even passed down to your children, and your children’s children.

That’s why we’ve dedicated this issue to The One – that special dress you’ll remember forever. We’ve got 44 pages of fashion and style inspo, as well as our exclusive look inside the studios of Australia’s top bridal designers (page 142). The only part we can’t help you with? Picking just one. Happy dress hunting!

Love, Lisa and the Bride team x

Follow us on Twi er and Instagram at @BrideAustralia, catch up on the latest goss from Bride HQ at thebrideblog.com.au, or visit bride.com.au

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CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Rebecca Bower, Sarah Garton, Tintin Hedberg, Nick Sco ADVERTISING VICTORIA ACCOUNT MANAGERS Andree Church Francesca Bird ADVERTISING NEW SOUTH WALES ACCOUNT MANAGER Jody Davies ADVERTISING COORDINATOR Laura Harry

PUBLISHED BY HGX MANAGING DIRECTOR & PUBLISHER Simon McKeown ART DIRECTOR Glenn Moa MELBOURNE Ground Level, Building 1, 658 Church Street, Richmond VIC 3121 tel: (03) 8520 6444 fax: (03) 8520 6422 SYDNEY Level 4, 50 Yeo Street, Neutral Bay NSW 2089 tel: (02) 9908 8222 fax: (02) 9908 8666 Cover price is recommended only. While every eort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information in this magazine, no responsibility can be accepted by the publisher for errors or omissions and in particular no responsibility can be accepted for the quality of goods and services supplied by advertisers, prices quoted or printers’ errors. All material copyright Š 2015 to Hardie Grant Magazines. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part either electronically or conventionally without the wri en permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited.

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HAVE YOU CHECKED OUT BRIDE.COM.AU YET? Inspiration overload From the sweet and simple to OTT showstoppers, we’ve got all the real-life wedding inspiration you need for your own big day.

Your online destination for all things weddings

Ideas and advice Whether you’re searching for your dream dress, looking for the perfect venue or need an answer to that tricky question (do you really have to invite your third cousin’s girlfriend?), you’ll find it on bride.com.au.

THE POINT Your wedding is a reflection of your personal taste, unique style and own high standards.

At The Point Albert Park, they pride themselves on creating this vision with you.

From the moment you set foot inside The Point Albert Park, the experienced events team will work alongside you to create your ideal wedding.

Combining award-winning cuisine, a tailored beverage menu and impeccable service we guarantee to make your special day, one people will never forget.

The Point Albert Park showcases Modern Australian cuisine by Chef Andrew Harmer, as well as boasting one of the most extensive wine lists in Australia. Head Sommelier Joseph Griffiths is available to suggest wines that best complement your menu selection.

Situated on the edge of Albert Park Lake, the classic events spaces accommodate a range of styles, from cocktail parties to seated tasting menus of eight courses or more.

Seamless service extends from that first visit to your departure, ensuring lasting memories of an impressive event. The events team look forward to welcoming you to The Point Albert Park.

SAMPLE MENU Canapés Beetroot, goats curd and puffed rice 8]^X`Zc a^kZg eViZ VcY [d^Z \gVh dc idVhiZY Wg^dX]Z HVabdc GdjaVYZ Entrée Crispy skinned pork belly, caramelised cauliflower, apple puree and pork jus EVc hZVgZY hXVaade! WaVX` ejYY^c\! XZaZg^VX puree and prosciutto (gf/df) Main Braised beef cheek, pommes puree and pickled vegetables EVc hZVgZY `^c\ hVabdc! [ZccZa! XjXjbWZg and lemon beurre blanc Dessert Tiramisu, macerated cherries and Kirsch sorbet

Aquatic Drive, Albert Park Lake, VIC 3206 T: 03 9682 5566 F: 03 9682 5577 E: functions@thepointalbertpark.com.au W: thepointalbertpark.com.au

ROYA L B OTA N I C GA R D E N S M E L B O U R N E

7RJHWKHU ZH ZLOO FUHDWH WKH PRPHQWV WKDW PDWWHU Royal Botanic Gardens, South Yarra (03) 9820 9590 theterrace@delawarenorth.com www.terracereception.com.au

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NEWS

GET YOUR GAME ON Are you warmed up? If not, be er sneak in a few stretches following your “I do”s so you’re match-fit for a round of croquet or quoits. Lawn games are a clever (and fun) way to keep your guests entertained between the ceremony and reception while you’re taking photos. It’s also a chance for guests to mingle before dinner, and a handy icebreaker for those who don’t know anyone else. And did we mention they’re super fun? Game on!

the scoop Games for your guests, a venue you’ll want to book immediately and cute-as cases for your honeymoon... this is everything you need to know about what’s happening in the world of weddings right now.

by STEPHANIE MIKKELSEN

A GIFT FOR YOUR GIRL An illustration or sketch makes a great one-of-a-kind gi , such as these ones by Angie Rehe (angierehe.com). If you’re a ’maid, sneak a pic of your bride in her dress and surprise her with the sketch on the big day.

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NEWS

the scoop

IT’S ALL ABOUT THE BROW-NIE POINTS

SIX THINGS WE LEARNT FROM OUR CONFESSIONS OF A COUTURIER SHOOT And that’s not including the roadie skills we picked up along the way‌

1 2

A big wedding needs a big skirt, and to the delight of tulle-inclined brides everywhere the full skirt is on its way back for wedding dresses. Thanks Bernade e Pimenta for the hot tip!

Another trend that will soon be making its way down the aisle? The printed wedding dress. We saw them at Sonia Cappellazzo, Wendy Makin and Louise Alvarez, so whether it’s all-over orals or a few sca ered blooms, spring brides are sure to love this beautiful look.

3 4

5

Try to avoid standing on a block when you’re trying on frocks. Mario and Ines from CrocĂŠ & Colosimo say the extra height will change the proportions of your ďŹ gure, and the dress won’t look the same when you stand on the oor. Instead, slip on a pair of heels to get an idea of how your skirt and hem will fall.

NAPOLEON PERDIS Precision Tweezers, $12 NAPOLEON PERDIS Browtox Pack, $39

LIKE IT? PUT A LABEL ON IT

6

Put your own stamp, literally, on the drinks at your reception by dressing your wine, beer and water bo les with a label designed by you. And no, that doesn’t mean you have to be a graphic designer, because Brewtopia has done that part for you. You can change up the background colour, pop in your information and even add your own picture. Labels start from $39.99 for a pack of 48, see brewtopia.com.au.

Every bride should experience walking into a gown room – that’s right, a whole room – just once. Prepare for swoon city at Wendy Makin’s Brides on Collins in Melbourne.

Oh, and let’s not forget the boys. To have your groom looking mighty ďŹ ne, make like designer Craig Braybrook and have him take a velvet blazer for a turn.

It is possible to have your perfect dress and not blow your budget or skimp on style. It may mean compromising on some tiny details (such as the ďŹ nishing on your hem or type of lace), but Rose from Anne e of Melbourne promises it can be done – and she wouldn’t lie.

For eyes that seriously pop, the ďŹ rst place to start is with your brows. A pair of well-shaped, sculpted arches will frame your face and is key to a polished look.

This year it’s more about colour than shape, so for brows that would make Cara Delevingne raise one of hers, reach for a sharp eyebrow pencil or powder. A swipe of clear or tinted brow gel will keep your arches from going wild.

CARRY ON

Turn to page 142 to peek inside the boutiques and studios of some of Australia’s top bridal couturiers.

To cart all your ’moon must-haves, you need luggage that can go those (Frequent Flyer) miles.

The American Tourister CubePop collection does just that; the cases are super sturdy, and the eyecatching colours mean it’s a cinch to spot them on the luggage carousel.

All you need to do now is remember to pack your passport! Cases start from $289 (55cm), see americantourister.com.au.

VENUE WE LOVE When the sun goes down and you look out of the oor-to-ceiling windows across Darling Harbour, you can understand where Dockside Group’s Star Room gets its name. With its panoramic views of the water and Cockle Bay Wharf, a wedding here will have Hollywood feels by the bucketload. The space can hold up to 180 of your nearest and dearest (don’t forget, A-listers have a lot of friends), and your appetites will be taken care of by the tip-top cuisine from the Star Room’s kitchen. Go to docksidegroup.com.au.

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Do it in style

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+BH +BVOUT "#/ t &ENPOET "WF "TIXPPE 7JDUPSJB 1I t 'BY &NBJM JOGP!KBHKBVOUT DPN BV bride.com.au

Dockside

Balcony Level, Cockle Bay Wharf, Sydney Ph: 1300 117 118

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Images by Grey Wedding Photography

WEDDINGS

INSPIRATION

lacedup It’s been a wedding gown go-to for centuries, but as these accessories show, lace isn’t just for dresses...

Bride tip Thinking of rocking lace on your big day? Make sure you start your dress hunt at least six to nine months in advance, as nearly all lace fabrics have to be ordered in from overseas.

bride.com.au

SIMONE PÉRĂˆLE Joy white lace balconnet bra and brief, $199 YUMMII & I Estella barre e, $255 CROCÉ & COLOSIMO Couture gown, $POA FLORSHEIM Perrier heel in Beige/ Black, $179.95 YUMMII & I Santorini vintage gold headpiece chain, $370 ZIOLKOWSKI Couture gown, $POA

MODCLOTH I’m Sew Excited heel in Ivory, $39.99 ARABEL LEBRUSAN Lace chandelier earrings, $469

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Melbourne Level 2, Melbourne’s GPO (above H&M). Enter via the lift accessed from Postal Lane (between H&M and Myer). 03 9662 3005 Sydney Level 5, The Strand Arcade. Enter via the lift at the George Street entrance. 02 9223 2006 Read comments and reviews at www.facebook.com/LarsenJewellery www.larsenjewellery.com.au

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INSPIRATION

Bride tip Sequinned dresses are popular for bridesmaids, but brides can get in on the action too! Hailey Fenton, featured in our last issue, found this gold Zhivago dress on a wedding blog.

heavymetal The easiest way to inject some sparkle into your big day? These eye-catching metallic accents.

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ZHIVAGO Heavy metal sequin gown, $POA SECRETS SHHH Rose cu, $50 BERNADETTE PIMENTA COUTURE Metallic belt, $POA SECRETS SHHH Dancer necklet, $220 CHELSEA DE LUCA En Route to Wherever You Are earrings in White on Rose Gold, $279 MIMCO Supersonica Mim pouch in Gold, $79.95

MIMCO Hardwired bangle, $49.95 FLORSHEIM Reveal heel in Gold, $199.95

VIKTORIA NOVAK All Spectrum crown, $2,550

T H E

W E D D I N G

R I N G

E X P E R I E N C E

“Making each other’s wedding rings has been such an enjoyable and romantic experience.

Having our own jeweller guide us through each step made it so easy to create our perfect rings.

How special it is that we’ll be wearing rings that we made for each other!”

Melbourne Level 2, Melbourne’s GPO (above H&M). Enter via the lift accessed from Postal Lane (between H&M and Myer). 03 9662 3005 Sydney Level 5, The Strand Arcade. Enter via the lift at the George Street entrance. 02 9223 2006 Read comments and reviews at www.facebook.com/LarsenJewellery www.larsenjewellery.com.au

INSPIRATION

touchme

Get textured with luxurious leathers and the so est of silks and chions – because you can touch this.

ALEEM YUSUF Laser-cut leather gown with embellishment, $POA YUMMII & I Magnolia silk organza and French lace statement ower headpiece, $848

Bride tip When it comes to textures, balance is key. If you’re going for the leather look, team it with some super-pre y chion or organza to avoid looking like Sandy in the ďŹ nal scene of Grease!

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CRISTAHLEA Pink silk bias mini dress, $790 CRISTAHLEA Gold coral silk dress, $2,999 MIMCO Narrow hinged bangle in Vanilla, $69.95 JENNY PACKHAM AT HELEN RODRIGUES Nina gown, $POA

MIMCO Codess bootie, $299 DIANA FERRARI Hepburn wallet in Brown Multi Snake, $39.95

CRAIG BRAYBROOK COUTURE Laser-cut leather bodice gown, $POA

WEDDINGS WITH

Designer Style Discover QT Hotels and Resorts for unique wedding venues in some of Australia’s most iconic destinations.

The QT Hotels and Resorts brand, which launched in 2011, have quickly developed a reputation for their design quirk, progressive hospitality philosophy and “bringing the fun back to Five Star”. Celebrate your special day in the stylish surroundings of either QT Gold Coast, QT Port Douglas or QT Falls Creek.

Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or an elaborate reception, our wedding packages have been specifically designed to ensure you receive a bespoke celebration that’s as unique as you.

For bookings and enquiries call 07 5584 1240 or email sales_goldcoast@qthotels.com.au www.qthotels.com.au

@qt_hotels

So Sunday

Elope

Retreat

QT Gold Coast

QT Port Douglas

QT Falls Creek

Discover a space where nostalgic surfer chic meets Miami catwalk cool. QT Gold Coast is located beachside in one of Australia’s favourite playgrounds. The hotels 297 guestrooms and Suites feature dazzling views of the hinterland and Pacific Ocean.

Colourful and sophisticated from the moment you enter, QT Port Douglas is an oasis for relaxation. The resort’s 170 guestrooms and apartment style villas are bright and spacious featuring all the quirk and design you’d expect from QT Hotels and Resorts.

QT Falls Creek is the largest resort within the Victorian ski fields and sits snugly at the base of the main ski runs. The resort offers 63 luxurious apartments with private outdoor hot tubs and uninterrupted views of the slopes.

NEWS

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NEWS

Fashion Couture gowns made for your ‘look at me’ moment A li le bit retro and a whole lot of fun – it’s time to celebrate!

Introducing our exciting new collaboration with Etsy.com

To continue the search for your dream dress, visit bride.com.au

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NEWS

Vanessa Norris Photography

off the runway

>

Your need-to-know wrap-up of the latest trends, hottest accessories and game-changing bridal designers from Australia and around the globe. Your dress mission just got much, much easier.

by STEPHANIE MIKKELSEN

BRIDESMAIDS GET BESPOKE And they don’t even need to leave their houses.

Melbourne designer Nicolangela’s online store now oers brides and their leading ladies the chance to tailor their existing designs. With a selection of fabrics, colour combos and embellished trims, this is your chance to tap into your inner designer (because fash-un, darling). Go to nicolangela.com.

“I like the idea of travelling through the heavens. It’s something you only see at night�

Designer Zuhair Murad on the inspiration for his haute couture collection at Paris Fashion Week (le ).

> bride.com.au

FROM PARIS WITH LOVE Every fashionista knows that Paris Fashion Week is the must-a end event of the year, and the jewels in this crown are the haute couture collections from design houses such as Chanel, Dior, Elie Saab and Zuhair Murad. This year’s autumn/winter collections were all about bling – think crystals, sequins and beads, accessorised with sparkly headbands and crowns.

NEWS

MUM’S THE WORD You might be wrapped up in your own dress hunt, but we can guarantee there’s someone else wondering what to wear – your mum! Liza Emanuele kicked o the 10th anniversary of her label with the launch of the State of Grace collection, which is sure to get the tick of approval from mothers of the bride everywhere. The collection features a range of gorgeous cocktail dresses made from beaded laces and luxe fabrics. Head to the Liza Emanuele showroom (147 King William Road, Hyde Park, Adelaide) or shop at lizaemanuele.com.au.

DESIGNER Q&A Aleem Yusuf What made you pursue a career in bridal couture? “Designing and sewing dresses has been my passion from a very young age. I love fabric and the ďŹ ne cra of designing and creating a couture dress for someone and making them feel fabulous.â€?

What inspires you? “I am inspired by the intrinsic strength and subtlety of women.

Inspiration also comes from the contrasts of nature, surrounding environment and bygone eras.

An experience, texture, vision or conversation may translate into a creative emotional response that results in the next piece or collection of wearable art.�

What’s your signature look? “It’s reminiscent of the golden age of couture. The silhoue es are structured and fully supportive along with freely owing styles.â€?

THE MUST-HAVE CELEB ACCESSORY

PHOTOGRAPHY GETTY IMAGES.

The big jewellery trend that Hollywood’s A-listers can’t get enough of? The estate earring.

These delicate baubles are an understated cousin of the statement earring, and are a modern nod to the vintage pieces you might â€˜ďŹ nd’ in your nan’s jewellery box. To really up your glam game, gli ering drop earrings are your go-to. We love this pair from Larsen Jewellery (larsenjewellery.com.au).

Do you keep an eye on current trends when you design or are you a rule-breaker? “I love to experiment with fabrics and combine the textures of dierent fabrics. Some of my experiments turn into nontraditional silhoue es and looks, which I may come back to weeks or months later, and [I then] take an element from them to incorporate into a more traditional design.

This allows the design process to evolve to the next level, and at the same time there is a continuum with the work I do.�

What tips would you give to brides who are looking for a couture gown? “The most important thing is to be comfortable in a beautifully ďŹ ed gown, and at the same time, be able to express your individuality by having a gown made to your measurements that has been specially designed for you. Fi ings in toiles [mock-ups of the dress] are very important to achieve a perfect ďŹ t in the actual gown. Last but not least, have lots of fun while enjoying the journey of having your own couture gown made.â€?

What type of bride loves an Aleem Yusuf gown? “A woman who values their individuality and self-expression, and is looking for a gown that reects tradition with a contemporary edge.â€?

ALERT SATIN IS OUT LINEN IS IN

For grooms, that is (don’t worry, your wedding dress is safe). When the temperature begins to sky-rocket and outdoor weddings become more about parasols than umbrellas, spare a thought for the boys dressed in heavy satin and shiny silk. A linen suit jacket has a comfortable, casual feel, while still being elegant and sophisticated. It’s perfect for a beach or garden wedding, and looks especially dapper teamed with a pair of chinos in a contrasting colour.

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www.rhondahemmingway.com.au

BY APPOINTMENT

(02) 9362 3733

Bridal Gowns

A place to find your dream wedding gown.

New arrvials in store now!

Appointments necessary

Marry Me Bridal 528 Military Road, Mosman, NSW 2088 p. 02 9960 5746 info@marrymemosman.com.au www.marrymemosman.com.au

Bridal Gowns

A place to find your dream wedding gown.

New arrvials in store now!

Appointments necessary

Marry Me Bridal 528 Military Road, Mosman, NSW 2088 p. 02 9960 5746 info@marrymebrides.com.au www.marrymebrides.com.au

Light & shade Step into the spotlight with a couture gown made especially for your ‘look at me’ moment.

Photographer TINTIN HEDBERG/HELL STUDIOS Fashion editor KIRSTIE ARMIGER-GRANT Stylist KIM ELLMER/VIVIEN’S CREATIVE Hair & make-up JUSTIN HENRY/VIVIEN’S CREATIVE Model MADELEINE/VIVIEN’S

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NEWS

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ABOVE: Gown, Wendy Makin. Shoes, Tony Bianco. Ring, Elly Lou. LEFT: Gown, Cappellazzo Couture.

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ABOVE: Gown, Craig Braybrook Couture. Necklace, Nomiki Glynatsis Couture.

RIGHT: Gown, Lilli Marcs. Necklace, stylist’s own.

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NEWS

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NEWS

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ABOVE: Gown, Cappellazzo Couture. Earrings, Nomiki Glynatsis Couture.

LEFT: Gown, Craig Braybrook Couture. Necklace and rings, Secrets Shhh.

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ABOVE: Gown, Rhonda Hemmingway Couture. Shoes, Forever New. Earrings, Mimco.

RIGHT: Gown, Anne e of Melbourne. Shoes, Tony Bianco. Earrings, Nomiki Glynatsis Couture.

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NEWS

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NEWS

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ABOVE: Gown, Louise Alvarez. Necklace, Nomiki Glynatsis Couture.

LEFT: Gown, Jennifer Go at The Wedding Boutique. Necklace, Mimco. Ring, Secrets Shhh.

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ABOVE: Gown, Ziolkowski. Necklace and ring, Elly Lou. RIGHT: Gown, Bernade e Pimenta Couture. Necklace, Nomiki Glynatsis Couture.

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NEWS

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Suite 101/410 Elizabeth St, Surry Hills NSW 2010 By appointment only.

PHOTOGRAPHY: CLAUDIO RASCHELLA, LOCATION: STANNIX PARK

evening & bridal couture

www.ziolkowski.com.au info@ziolkowski.com.au Ph: 0410 611 523

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ELLA Gown, Swish. Shoes, Ted Baker. Headpiece, Embellish Atelier. Bracelet, Maria Elena Headpieces & Accessories. Ring, Cerrone. DAN Suit, Peppers.

Bow tie, Calvin Klein. Shoes, Aquila.

When your gown is this fabulous, your groom this handsome and you’ve just said “I do�, there’s only one thing left to do... celebrate!

Photographer NICK SCOTT Stylist LYDIA-JANE SAUNDERS Assistant stylist KATHRYN BLOM Hair & make-up PAUL BEDGGOOD Models ELLA/SCOOP & DAN/CHIC Location THE EATHOUSE DINER SYDNEY Visit EATHOUSEDINER COM AU

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NEWS

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ABOVE: Gown, Carla Zampa i. Bracelet, Maria Elena Headpieces & Accessories. Ring, Cerrone.

LEFT: ELLA Gown, Inbal Dror from Helen Rodrigues. Shoes, Chie Mihara. Headpiece, Jenny Packham from Helen Rodrigues. Bracelet, Maria Elena Headpieces & Accessories. DAN OutďŹ t, Declic. Shoes, Tods.

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ABOVE: ELLA Gown, Penrith Bridal Centre. Bracelet, Maria Elena Headpieces & Accessories. Ring, Cerrone. DAN Outfit, Peppers.

RIGHT: ELLA Gown, Mia Solano from Luv Bridal & Formal. Shoes, Ted Baker. Necklace, Maria Elena Headpieces & Accessories.

DAN Outfit, Declic. Shoes, Nota.

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NEWS

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NEWS

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ABOVE: OutďŹ t, Declic.

LEFT: Gown, Vera Wang. Necklace, Maria Elena Headpieces & Accessories.

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ABOVE: Gown, Camilla and Marc. Shoes, Chie Mihara. Headpiece, Maria Elena Headpieces & Accessories. Ring, Cerrone.

RIGHT: ELLA Gown, Heavenly Collections. Headpiece, Maria Elena Headpieces & Accessories. DAN OutďŹ t, Peppers. Shoes, Nota.

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NEWS

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NEWS

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ABOVE: ELLA Gown, Camilla and Marc. Headpiece, Maria Elena Headpieces & Accessories. DAN OutďŹ t, Peppers.

LEFT: Gown, San Patrick from Marry Me Brides. Shoes, Repe o Paris. Earrings, Maria Elena Headpieces & Accessories. Ring, Cerrone.

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ABOVE: Gown, Jadore from White Runway. Shoes, Ted Baker. Headpiece, Maria Elena Headpieces & Accessories.

RIGHT: ELLA Gown, Maticevski. Shoes, Ted Baker. DAN OutďŹ t, Peppers. Shoes, Nota.

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NEWS

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Karen Willis Holmes Mariana Hardwick La Sposa De Lanquez Justin Alexander Wendy Makin Brides Desire Jack Sullivan Roz La Kelin Glamour Plus Sophia Tolli Fara Sposa

26 Soper Place, Penrith (02) 4731 2308 www.penrithbridalcentre.com.au by appointment only

Hire Made to Measure Shirts & Accessories

cremorne telephone (02) 9953 4261

double bay telephone (02) 9327 2544

w w w. p e p p e r s f o r m a l w e a r. c o m . a u

FASHION

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FASHION

5

WHICH BRIDE ARE YOU? A so-hot-right-now trendse er? Boho babe?

Classic princess? Vintage vixen? Whichever one you are, you’ll find your big-day style at Etsy.com.

»

Photographer TINTIN HEDBERG/HELL STUDIOS Stylist LAUREN DIETZE/VIVIEN’S CREATIVE Hair & make-up JUSTIN HENRY/VIVIEN’S CREATIVE Model DENISA/VIVIEN’S

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FASHION

PRINCESS BRIDE

French lace gown, $2,299.95, whenfreddiemetlilly.etsy.com.

Crystal leaf tiara, $267, annamarguerite.etsy.com.

Crystal bridal cu, $180, allaboutromance.etsy.com.

Natural bouquet, $360, ashleelaurendesigns.etsy.com.

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1. OXEE.ETSY.COM Mr & Mrs cake topper, $30 / 2. EMERALDANDELLA.ETSY.COM Silver cake stand, $45 (cake courtesy of Dana Patisserie, danapatisserie.com) / 3. STYLISHPAPERSHOP.ETSY.COM Paper rosettes, $45 / 4. HANGINGWILLOW.ETSY.COM Wedding coasters, $9 / 5. INASPINNIQUESWAY.ETSY.COM Gold glasses, $45 / 6. ANNAMARGUERITE.ETSY.COM Tiara, $267 / 7. THEPAPERCRAFTERIE.ETSY.COM Ivory baker’s twine, $8.50 / 8. POETRYJEWELRY.ETSY.COM Earrings, $42 / 9. LITTLEGLITTERCO.ETSY.COM Mr & Mrs banner, $18 / 10. STYLISHPAPERSHOP.ETSY.COM Paper rosettes, $45 / 11. FEATHERANDFLEUR.ETSY.COM Table numbers, $30 / 12. FOUNDBYHER.ETSY.COM Knife and fork, $45 / 13. ALLABOUTROMANCE.ETSY.COM Crystal cuff, $180 / 14. ASHLEELAURENDESIGNS. ETSY.COM Natural bouquet, $360 / 15. FIRSTIMPRESS.ETSY.COM Laser cut invite, $24 / 16. WHENFREDDIEMETLILLY.ETSY.COM French lace gown, $2,299.95

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FASHION

VINTAGE VIXEN

1950s crochet dress, $245, deerfieldvintage. etsy.com. Haircomb, $116, lulusplendor.etsy.com.

Kimberley bouquet, $220, laplumedefleur. etsy.com. Glomesh bag, $29, cardcurios.etsy.com.

Shoes, stylist’s own.

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1. FLAVOURBOX.ETSY.COM Flower bonbonierre box, $13.50 / 2. MARCIANDME.ETSY.COM Cake stand, $49 / 3. ACREATIVELIFESTYLE.ETSY.COM Wooden hanger, $6 / 4. LULUSPLENDOR.ETSY.COM Haircomb, $116, and earrings, $123 / 5. KNOCKLOUDVINTAGE.ETSY.COM Vintage kissing cake topper, $12 / 6. DEARLITTLEDARLING.ETSY.COM Will you be my bridesmaid card, $4.75 / 7. CAREFULLYCRAFTEDBYJO.ETSY.COM Baker’s twine, $9.95 / 8. FOUNDBYHER. ETSY.COM Scissors, $40 / 9. LAPLUMEDEFLEUR.ETSY.COM Kimberley bouquet, $220 / 10. CARDCURIOS.ETSY.COM Glomesh bag, $29 / 11. DEERFIELDVINTAGE. ETSY.COM 1950s crochet dress, $245 / 12. PRESTONZLY.ETSY.COM Red Kiki shoes, $579

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FASHION

THE TRENDSETTER

Two-piece bridal gown, $2,050, candiceleebridal.etsy.com.

Gold glitter drop earrings, $30, pirdy.etsy.com. Bouquet, $340, ashleelaurendesigns.etsy.com.

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1. CANDICELEEBRIDAL.ETSY.COM Two-piece bridal gown, $2,050 / 2. EMERALDANDELLA.ETSY.COM Blue cake stand, $39 / 3. PIRDY.ETSY.COM Gold glitter drop earrings, $30 / 4. PRINTCOSTUDIO.ETSY.COM Invitation, $2.55 / 5. CHAOSCLUB.ETSY.COM Licorice all sort cake toppers, $7.95 / 6. VAZINMELB.ETSY.COM Mason jar, $8.50 / 7. ASHLEELAURENDESIGNS.ETSY.COM Bouquet, $340 / 8. ECOCOLLECTIVE.ETSY.COM Leather clutch, $99 / 9. BLACKPRINTINGCO.ETSY. COM Watercolour placecards, $1.80 / 10. LAVENDERHONEYANDCO.ETSY.COM Confetti party popper, $5.95 / 11. FLEURIEUGIFTS.ETSY.COM Air plant, $24 / 12. ACREATIVELIFESTYLE.ETSY.COM Love bottles, $12 / 13. LAVENDERHONEYANDCO.ETSY.COM Confetti party popper, $5.95 / 14. WAXANDCO.ETSY.COM Soy candle, $28

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FASHION

BOHO BABE French lace gown, $1,300, graceloveslace.etsy.com.

Barefoot sandals, $90, passionowerjewelry.etsy.com.

Art deco hair piece, $183, embridal.etsy.com. Soft peach bouquet, $48, annisďŹ nethings.etsy.com.

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1. ANNISFINETHINGS.ETSY.COM Soft peach bouquet, $48 / 2. EMBRIDAL.ETSY.COM Art deco hair piece, $183 / 3. GRACELOVESLACE.ETSY.COM French lace gown, $1,300 / 4. FOUNDBYHER.ETSY.COM Glass bottles, $45 / 5. LAPOMMEETLAPIPE.ETSY.COM Just Married bunting, $15 / 6. REDZINK.ETSY.COM Plate, $25 / 7. MRDRAPERS.ETSY.COM Linen napkins (set of 4), $50 / 8. LAPOMMEETLAPIPE.ETSY.COM Wedding place cards, $1.25 / 9. ACREATIVELIFESTYLE. ETSY.COM Cake forks, $18 / 10. HANGINGWILLOW.ETSY.COM Floral wreath stationery, $310 / 11. LAPOMMEETLAPIPE.ETSY.COM Wedding place cards, $1.25 / 12. ACREATIVELIFESTYLE.ETSY.COM Twine, $9 / 13. PASSIONFLOWERJEWELRY.ETSY.COM Barefoot sandals, $90

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FASHION

LIKE WHAT YOU SEE? In October, our exclusive shoot will come to life in the first ever Etsy + Bride trunk show.

You’ve got Etsy.com bookmarked on your laptop, work computer, tablet and phone; ‘favourites’ lists organised by colour, theme and product; and hints to your hubby-to-be about potential wedding gi s have reached an all-time high. The only thing missing? Being able to get up close and personal with all your favourite Etsy.com products – and the sellers who make them.

Enter the Etsy + Bride trunk show, which will take place in Melbourne this October.

We couldn’t think of any other brand that loves weddings as much as we do, so it made total sense to partner up with Etsy.com in an exclusive collaboration that celebrates all things love.

At the trunk show, you’ll be able to try on gorgeous gowns, get beautiful styling ideas and snap up those final finishing touches to make your big day complete.

Keep an eye on bride.com.au for more information about this exciting event.

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FASHION

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You’re thinking about your wedding now .... but what’s next?

If babies are on your agenda visit

www.yourfertility.org.au

Beauty The ho est celeb make-up looks for your big day

For the pre iest hair and make-up inspo around, visit bride.com.au

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HOLLYWOOD GLAM You’ve got the red carpet-worthy dress, so now you need the A-lister make-up to match. Beauty editor Rachael Mannell has the inside word on how to make your fave celeb’s look work for your big day.

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ou’ve been planning your wedding for months (or years), with every tiny detail prepared for. When the time finally comes to press play on your carefully selected processional song and head down the aisle, killer makeup will help you face your groom and

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guests with confidence. No-one knows that be er than these four red-carpet regulars, who feature on ‘make-up inspo’ Pinterest boards everywhere. But it’s not just a ma er of rocking up on the day with your iPad in tow – the trick to nailing your bridal make-up is in knowing which look will suit you best and the magic words to tell your glam squad to get it.

BEAUTY

The MARGOT ROBBIE

I

t’s the modern-day Grace Kelly and a wedding favourite. The secret to this look is using a warm, bright red to create a statement lip, while ensuring everything else is clean and minimal to let your pout take centre stage.

WHY IT WORKS: A perfect red lip is classy, glamorous and timeless – just like your wedding gown. The key to ge ing it right is keeping everything else simple. Maybelline NY Australia make-up director Nigel Stanislaus likes so , velvet skin with peach cheeks and a wash of taupe eyeshadow for your lids, followed by two coats of mascara on lashes and, ďŹ nally, elegantly groomed brows. If it’s a really simple, low maintenance look you’re a er, he suggests skipping the peach blush altogether.

WHO IT SUITS: Anyone with a sensual mouth and medium to full lips.

If a bold lip is your go-to for a night out, chances are you can deďŹ nitely pull it o on your big day.

WHAT TO ASK FOR: How you direct your make-up artist is key, but Nigel says a customised couture ďŹ nish begins with perfect prep. In the lead-up to the day, get in the habit of regularly moisturising your lips with a good lip balm. To ensure lippy stays put, he suggests beginning with concealer over the lip surface, followed by a matching lip pencil to ensure brighter colour pay-o. Finally, Nigel advises blo ing twice and reapplying lip colour for even more longevity. Blo ing removes oil from the formula to allow colour pigment to really adhere to the lips.

“A perfect red lip is classy, glamorous and timeless – just like your wedding gown�

T

Essentials:

Just because a professional has applied your make-up doesn’t mean your work is done.

On the day you WILL need a touch-up, so have a lip brush loaded with your statement lip colour.

MAYBELLINE NEW YORK EyeStudio Color Ta oo 24Hr Cream Gel Shadow in Tough as Taupe, $11.95 HOURGLASS Opaque Rouge Liquid Lipstick in Raven, $38 MAYBELLINE NEW YORK Volum’ Express Pumped Up! Colossal Mascara, $19.95 MAC Powder Blush in Peaches, $41 REAL TECHNIQUES Powder Brush, $27.99

“This is for the bride wanting to exude timeless sensuality�

Pro tip

Essentials: When make-up is applied professionally it will go the distance. Almost. A wedding day from start to ďŹ nish can go for hours, so take a so powder brush with you and mimic your make-up artist’s technique.

WHO IT SUITS: This look is universally a ering and suits any face and eye shape. Score!

WHAT TO ASK FOR: Insist on individually applied false lashes to really make eyes smolder and oset the bronze eyeshadow pale e.

Nigel says magazine tear sheets and images are the best way to show your make-up artist what you like.

STILA Baked Eye Shadow Trio in Bronze Glow, $40 NARS Ma e Multiple in Vientiane, $56 BENEFIT Wa ’s Up!, $53 REAL TECHNIQUES Retractable Lip Brush, $15.99

WHY IT WORKS: You can opt for any intensity level you like, from a light wash on your eyelids and a so dusting of bronzer across cheeks to next-level smoldering eyes and dramatically contoured cheeks.

Nigel warns that stained or bad teeth will become an (unwanted) focus if worn with a statement lip. Run your index ďŹ nger along the inside of your lips to prevent product from staining teeth.

The JENNIFER LOPEZ

here’s nothing wrong with wanting to inject a li le bit of sexiness on your big day, and one of the easiest (and most grandma-friendly) ways to do it is with this burnished bronzed pale e. We’d copy Jennifer Lopez’s ‘tanned with a touch of sexy’ vibe 24/7 if we could, so it’s no surprise it’s one of the most soughta er make-up looks for brides.

MODELCO Lip Lacquer in Crème Brulee, $24

Pro tip To avoid OTT bronze, ensure make-up is applied in natural light. Don’t use a kabuki brush as it gives too much coverage.

Instead, go for a uy brush and focus on your hairline, cheekbones and temples.

Nigel Stanislaus, Maybelline NY Australia make-up director

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BEAUTY

The ANGELINA JOLIE-PITT WHO IT SUITS: This look can really match any face shape, but not an eye shape with no space from lash to socket or a heavy lid.

“This look is for the bride who isn’t scared of make-up and likes to be on trend�

Michael Brown, celebrity make-up artist

WHAT TO ASK FOR: Celebrity make-up artist Michael Brown suggests asking for ‘balance’. The winged eye is the statement, so it’s imperative to keep the rest of the make-up fairly natural with the focus on one feature. In this case, keep the lips so using a nude lipstick or gloss.

A

ngelina gets this look right. Every. Single. Time.

The winged liner adds a li le drama, yet still allows the look to remain feminine. It’s perfect for the bride who likes to be on trend.

WHY IT WORKS: The winged eye adds depth and extra style for any bride on their big day. It’s striking yet classic, and works well from day to night – ideal for a ernoon nuptials.

Pro tip A winged liner on its own can look a li le harsh on some women. Michael likes to add shading in the socket for li , and also some highlighter in the inner corner of the eye to brighten.

Essentials: Before your photos, lightly go over your wings with a ďŹ ne-tipped liner and a touch of nude gloss to lips so they look fresh.

L’OREAL PARIS SuperLiner Perfect Slim Eyeliner, $24.45 ELIZABETH ARDEN Beautiful Color Luminous Lipgloss in Precious Petal, $30 L’OREAL PARIS Infallible Ma e Foundation, $29.95 NUDE BY NATURE Pressed Ma ifying Mineral Veil, $29.95

The JESSICA BIEL

WHY IT WORKS: It’s so , calm and shows o your inner beauty by not being overly made up, perfect for a relaxed daytime wedding when you don’t want to go too OTT. Michael envisages it working with so , oaty gowns rather than a large ‘meringue’ statement piece, as it’s all about the skin and its gorgeous glow.

WHAT TO ASK FOR: As this look is for the feminine bride with quite simple tastes, Michael suggests asking for a bright, clear-looking complexion. He believes it’s all about adding light to the face and less on the shading, so illuminiser plays a key role here. To create balance to all these so tones and add deďŹ nition, mascara and invisibly applied liner is a must.

Essentials: Skin is the hero in this look, so prepping with a hydrating primer is key.

LAURA MERCIER Foundation Primer – Hydrating, $45 ELIZABETH ARDEN Beautiful Color Moisturizing Lipstick in Blush Glow and Rosy Shimmer, $35

WHO IT SUITS: Opt for this look

Pro tip

if you have a so er round- or heartshaped face like Mrs Timberlake.

“Every bride should have that sense of femininity on their big day and this look is all about that�

Michael Brown, celebrity make-up artist bride.com.au

For brides with very pale skin, Michael warns pastel shades can look a li le wishy-washy, so ask for a touch of warmth if this is you.

CLINIQUE Chubby Stick Sculpting Highlight in Super Starlight and He y Highlight, $42

SMASHBOX Photo Op Eye Shadow Trio in Multiash, $38

PHOTOGRAPHY SCOPE FEATURES, ISTOCKPHOTO.COM.

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ant dreamy, dewy, iridescent skin to say “I do�? Then this is the make-up style for you.

NEWS

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NEWS

Real-life weddings Lauren and Michael’s rustic country nuptials on the Murray An arty elopement to Hobart’s iconic MONA The WA winery wedding with a difference

For more inspirational real-life weddings, visit bride.com.au To submit your wedding for consideration, email editorial@bride.com.au

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REAL-LIFE WEDDINGS

Alicia & Ben This Sydney couple may have said their “I do�s in Alicia’s hometown of Pittsburgh, but there was still a cheeky nod to Ben’s Italian heritage on their big day.

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hen Ben approached Alicia in a Sydney bar ďŹ ve years ago, he didn’t waste any time locking in their ďŹ rst date for the very next night – which just happened to be Valentine’s Day. “No pressure,â€? laughs Alicia. Fast forward to Christmas Eve 2013 and, a er a blind taste test organised by foodie Ben, Alicia took o the blindfold to ďŹ nd him on one knee, asking her to spend the rest of her life with him. “We clearly love hijacking holidays in the name of love!â€?

TRANS-PACIFIC PLANNING A er a urry of Christmas phone calls to share their happy news with family and friends across Australia and the US, it was time to get down to business. “The most challenging thing for me was planning a wedding in the States from Australia,â€? says Alicia. “I couldn’t just drive over and visit vendors, which meant lots of emails back and forth on small things.

Vendor recommendations from Pi sburgh friends and my mum’s keen eye for picking out beautiful details in my absence are what really made it possible though.�

FINDING THE OTHER ONE Alicia found her gown on one of two planning trips to the US. “I knew I wanted to go dress shopping with my mum, so we lined up four days, with two dress shops each day. It was a mission of ‘on, o, on, o’ pre y quickly in each store – until the last dress in the sixth shop, The Exquisite Bride. A er trying on about 70 dresses, we instantly knew that was it.â€?

THE ITALIAN CONNECTION All of Alicia and Ben’s hard work paid o with their elegant ceremony and reception at Fox Chapel Golf Club in Pi sburgh. A er a threecourse sit-down meal, guests were treated to live music from the Bachelor Boys Band, along with a treat from the groom. “Ben’s homemade limoncello came out around 9pm, which took the party up a notch – as it always does!â€?

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REAL-LIFE WEDDINGS

the suppliers PHOTOGRAPHY Studio Bash Photography studiobash.com BRIDE’S GOWN So ero & Midgley from The Exquisite Bride theexquisitebride.com GROOM’S SUIT Ferrari Formalwear ferrariformalwear.com.au CEREMONY & RECEPTION Fox Chapel Golf Club foxchapelgolfclub.org FLOWERS Ann Allen annsoraldesigns.com INVITATIONS Heavenly Invites facebook.com/H.Ibymelanie CAKE Cakes by Debbie home.comcast. net/~cakesbydebbie

WORDS LISA O’BRIEN PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIO BASH PHOTOGRAPHY

ENTERTAINMENT Bachelor Boys Band bachelorboysband.com

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REAL-LIFE WEDDINGS

Lauren & Michael This pair kept things local by tying the knot near their hometowns on the NSW/ Victorian border – with their ceremony in one state and reception in the other!

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e ing engaged and buying a house are two huge milestones for any couple, but for Lauren and Michael they had extra special significance – because they happened at the same time. To celebrate purchasing their first home together, the pair had a picnic in the backyard on the day of se lement. “Mid-picnic, Michael got down on one knee,” Lauren remembers.

“It was a complete surprise!”

A LOCAL PRODUCTION It was important to both Lauren and Michael that they get married where they grew up.

“We love north-east Victoria and wanted to showcase the area to all our city guests, so we used all local suppliers and produce,” says Lauren. They chose Stableford House in Howlong, NSW, for their garden ceremony and Olive Hills Estate in Rutherglen, Victoria, for the rustic reception. Catering was by King River Cafe. “They were the first supplier we decided on and the rest of our wedding was planned around them. We’ve been going to the cafe for years and have had many special nights there, including the weekend we celebrated our engagement with our families.”

CAUGHT ON CAMERA For Lauren, her first kiss with her new husband was one of her favourite moments from the day. “My bright lipstick le a big smudge on Michael’s face, and the reaction was perfectly captured by our photographer,” she laughs. “It was a light-hearted and relaxed moment that flowed through the rest of the day.”

TIME FOR TEA With 165 guests, the couple organised an a ernoon tea between the ceremony and reception to give them more time to mingle with their family and friends. In keeping with the local theme, they served beers from Beechworth, sparkling wine from the King Valley and homemade sandwiches and sweets catered by the Jindera Football Club.

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REAL-LIFE WEDDINGS

the suppliers PHOTOGRAPHY Bec at Sue Davis Photography suedavisphotography.com BRIDE’S GOWN Luci DiBella lucidibella.com.au GROOM’S SUIT Suit Shop suitshop.com.au BRIDESMAIDS’ DRESSES Review review-australia.com CEREMONY Stableford House B&B stablefordhouse.com.au RECEPTION Olive Hills Estate olivehills.com.au CATERING King River Cafe kingrivercafe.com.au FLOWERS The Rutherglen Wedding Company rutherglenweddings.com

WORDS LISA O’BRIEN PHOTOGRAPHY BEC AT SUE DAVIS PHOTOGRAPHY

INVITATIONS Fecondo Creative allesha@fecondocreative.com

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REAL-LIFE WEDDINGS

Julia & Dominic This couple celebrated their romance with a storybook Southern Highlands setting, a vibrant springtime colour scheme and plenty of personal touches.

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ith a venue as pictureperfect as Bendooley Estate in the NSW Southern Highlands, there’s not a lot you have to do to make it amazing, but Sydney couple Julia and Dominic made sure their big day was all about them and their family and friends. In fact, the personal touches started with Dominic’s proposal. “I cooked Jules’ favourite dinner at home for her, and a erwards I asked her to be my wife,” he says. “She said yes!”

ONE FOR THE BOOKS A er a garden ceremony in the grounds of the estate, the couple and their guests moved through to the Book Barn for a three-course, sit-down meal. “They kept all the bookshelves exposed, which was one of my favourite things,” says teacher Julia. A erwards, Julia and Dominic had their first dance to “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Ingrid Michaelson.

“I got very emotional!” the bride laughs.

CUTTING SHAPES “The best man gave a hilarious speech and brought out a life-sized cut-out of Dom at his buck’s night,” says Julia. “It was later seen on the dance floor!” To keep up the personalised theme, the couple sent all their guests home with individual mini photo magnets.

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REAL-LIFE WEDDINGS

the suppliers PHOTOGRAPHY Mint Photography mintphotography.com.au BRIDE’S GOWN Anaessia Sydney anaessia.com GROOM’S SUIT Farage farage.com.au GROOMSMEN’S SUITS Peppers peppersformalwear.com.au BRIDESMAIDS’ DRESSES Review review-australia.com CEREMONY & RECEPTION Bendooley Estate bendooleyestate.com.au CAKE I Do Cakes idocakes.com.au

WORDS LISA O’BRIEN PHOTOGRAPHY MINT PHOTOGRAPHY

FLOWERS Blooms of Bowral bloomso owral.com.au

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As owners and function managers, Michelle and Doug are happy to help to discuss the many possibilities for your wedding or special event, from planning to seeing your day through with you.

REAL-LIFE WEDDINGS

Angela & Karl An arty Hobart location was the perfect setting for these top-secret nuptials.

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here’s coincidence and then there’s Angela and Karl. “It turned out we’d crossed paths quite a bit in our lives: when Karl’s family moved back from Sweden he grew up in a country town, and my dad moved to a town near there when I was a teenager. I actually visited Karl’s town,” remembers Angela. Then, the pair a ended the same gigs during university, met by chance at a mutual friend’s birthday and finally realised their feelings for each other at a music festival. “I turned to talk to him about the band we were watching and did a double take at how handsome he was,” reveals Angela. Karl popped the question at the top of Hobart’s Mount Wellington at midnight on the winter solstice. “Our teeth were cha ering and our hands were shaking. When he handed me the ring he said, ‘Don’t drop it!’”

PARTY OF TWO Eloping wasn’t Angela and Karl’s original intention, but the idea struck a er planning a traditional wedding became difficult. “We couldn’t find a place in Sydney that was willing to be flexible to meet what we wanted. I was starting to hate the idea of ge ing married!

We really just wanted to keep things simple and focus on our love and our future together.”

Planning the elopement ran smoothly and the ceremony, held at MONA in Hobart, was videoed for family and friends.

RED HOT Angela continued the non-traditional festivities with her choice of wedding dress. “I’m so pale that white looks terrible on me! Red is my favourite colour and I loved the Gilda dress from Wheels & Dollbaby the moment I saw it.” Karl’s suit was a custom-made piece.

For the civil ceremony, the bride and groom wrote their own vows. “We put our own rings on our fingers as a symbol of the oaths we were making, with the unbroken circle of the ring mirroring the unbreakable nature of the vow.” In a nod to Karl’s Swedish heritage, the newlyweds shared a sip from a Viking drinking horn as part of a unity ritual.

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REAL-LIFE WEDDINGS

the suppliers PHOTOGRAPHY Fred + Hannah fredandhannah.com BRIDE’S GOWN Wheels & Dollbaby wheelsanddollbaby.com GROOM’S SUIT Antons (03) 9663 8610 ENGAGEMENT & WEDDING RINGS Larsen Jewellery larsenjewellery.com.au CEREMONY MONA mona.net.au HAIR Amanda Clout amandaclouthair.com.au

WORDS STEPHANIE MIKKELSEN PHOTOGRAPHY FRED HANNAH

MAKE-UP Claire Hunt clairehuntmakeup.com

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REAL-LIFE WEDDINGS

Kerry & Aaron Not even a scorching Adelaide summer could spoil the romance of this winery wedding.

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ith Kerry growing up in Adelaide and Aaron in Canberra, the Sydney-based couple’s ďŹ rst job was se ling on a location for their nuptials. “Aaron and I saw eye-to-eye with the general style we wanted, but I was drawn to winery regions and Aaron wanted somewhere a bit dierent,â€? says the bride. To make sure they were both happy, Kerry and Aaron opted for an Adelaide celebration with the ceremony at the 20th-century heritage estate Carrick Hill and a reception at SeraďŹ no winery. Once they’d picked a date, the rest of the planning fell into place. “Aaron is a project manager, so I was lucky! He organised dozens of spreadsheets with all sorts of information in them, and came to me with choices for what we wanted and cost estimates.â€?

BLOWN AWAY Aaron’s groomsmen were given the job of sca ering white rose petals down the aisle. “They took their job very seriously!� Kerry says. “They wanted to know if I wanted ‘lines’ of petals or for them to be just sca ered. They were stricken when, having carefully placed all the petals along the ground, a great gust of wind came and blew the petals everywhere.�

TOGETHER FOREVER For the ceremony, the couple wrote their own vows. “Aaron, a true romantic, ďŹ nished his vows saying he would do everything in his power to be the last one alive so I wouldn’t ever have to be alone,â€? Kerry recalls. “That set the tears owing.â€? She knew what was coming though – the couple had shared their vows with one another before saying “I doâ€?.

SURF’S UP Following the big day, the newlyweds travelled to Sri Lanka for a surf camp. “We wanted to do something that we could take back to Australia, and starting a hobby together that we could also do in Sydney seemed like a great idea.�

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REAL-LIFE WEDDINGS

the suppliers PHOTOGRAPHY MacDougall Photography macphotos.com.au BRIDE’S GOWN Lilli Marcs lillimarcs.com.au GROOM’S SUIT Brent Wilson brentwilson.com.au CEREMONY Carrick Hill carrickhill.sa.gov.au RECEPTION & CATERING SeraďŹ no seraďŹ nowines.com.au STYLING Set Your Scene setyourscene.com.au FLOWERS Bella in Bloom bellainbloom.com.au CAKE How Sweet It Is howsweetitiscakes.com.au

WORDS STEPHANIE MIKKELSEN PHOTOGRAPHY MACDOUGALL PHOTOGRAPHY

ENTERTAINMENT Baker Boys Band bakerboysband.com.au

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REAL-LIFE WEDDINGS

Louise & Richard An old tradition got a new spin at this chic city celebration in Melbourne.

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ouise thought it was strange when Richard ducked out for a last-minute haircut before they went to his sister’s house for dinner. She thought it was even stranger when he got home 30 minutes later and rang the doorbell instead of just using his key (clue: it wasn’t Richard). “I was greeted by a limousine driver holding a large black box,” recalls Louise. “The driver told me he was under instruction from Rich and would be taking me to where Rich was waiting. I had to pack an overnight bag and get dressed with what was in the box.” What followed was a hotel room filled with roses, a gli ering diamond ring, a surprise dinner and breakfast with their families the next morning. Sigh.

MIDNIGHT SNACKS On arrival at the elegant reception in the heart of Melbourne, guests sipped the couple’s signature cocktail, #RichAndLouSayIDo, and were then treated to an indulgent threecourse dinner. The newlyweds had organised a late-night snack, too. “These were gourmet Philly cheesesteaks – a fond culinary treat we’d enjoyed during our time in the States. They were really well received, especially by the boys who were dying for a savoury snack as the evening and d-floor took flight!”

THROWN OFF THE SCENT When it came time to throw her bouquet, Louise... didn’t throw it at all. “During my speech I announced that I would like to present my bouquet to the couple in the room who had been married the longest: my very dear grandparents, Gam and G. Sixty-two years together and still very much in love!”

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REAL-LIFE WEDDINGS

the suppliers PHOTOGRAPHY Erin + Tara erinandtara.com.au BRIDE’S GOWN Monique Lhuillier moniquelhuillier.com BRIDESMAIDS’ DRESSES Nordstrom shop.nordstrom.com GROOMSMEN’S SUITS Joe Black joeblack.com.au CEREMONY Scotch College scotch.vic.edu.au RECEPTION Alto altoevents.com.au CATERING Damm Fine Food dammďŹ nefood.com.au FLOWERS Victoria Whitelaw victoriawhitelaw.com.au INVITATIONS Simplethings Press simplethingspress.com

WORDS STEPHANIE MIKKELSEN PHOTOGRAPHY ERIN TARA

CAKE Simply Cakes simplycakes.com.au

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L ve

by≈the

sea AT A STUNNING DEDES WATERFRONT GROUP VENUE With breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour and flexible spaces to suit every style of wedding celebration, our venues will create the perfect backdrop for a lifetime of lasting memories.

As a family owned business we understand how important your wedding day is.

Our specialised events team will tailor a package to create your dream wedding day and ensure every detail is attended to with care and expertise.

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REAL-LIFE WEDDINGS

Kate & Nick This Hong Kong-based pair returned to Australia to get married among the vines of Western Australia’s beautiful Margaret River wine region.

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s Kate and Nick found out, there are a few things to keep in mind when planning a wedding from another country. Firstly, expect the unexpected. Kate started her dress hunt in Hong Kong, but ended up finding her gown at Bridal by Aubrey Rose while on a shopping trip with her mum in Perth. “At every shop, I would try on one dress that I wouldn’t normally choose, and THE dress happened to be one of them,” she says. “It was not what I would’ve expected to wear, but I loved it.”

THE WEDDING PLANNER Secondly, a great wedding planner makes all the difference. “We decided on the venue and other major providers and Lauren at The Style Est did the rest,” says Kate. “She was so organised, thinking of all the li le details and arranging all the local hire, meeting with the venue, styling the ceremony and reception, and taking care of the set-up and organisation on the day. I can credit her with the fact I was so chilled out on the day of the wedding!”

A SMASHING GOOD TIME A er a civil ceremony overlooking the vineyards at the Watershed winery, guests enjoyed gourmet ice creams by Delish Ice while listening to local folk duo The Brothers Thin, before moving inside for dinner. For their first dance, Kate and Nick choreographed a routine to “Feeling Good” by Michael Bublé.

“We practiced for months but nothing quite prepares you for the real thing, where you suddenly need to do complicated li s with multiple layers of skirts,” laughs Kate. Instead of the usual options, the pair went for a threetier cake made entirely of meringue. “It was Nick’s idea,” Kate says. “And we smashed it to pieces rather than cu ing it!”

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REAL-LIFE WEDDINGS

the suppliers BRIDE’S GOWN Bridal by Aubrey Rose bridalbyaubreyrose.com.au GROOM’S SUIT Raja Fashions raja-fashions.com BRIDESMAIDS’ DRESSES J.Crew jcrew.com CEREMONY & RECEPTION Watershed watershedwines.com.au WEDDING PLANNER The Style Est thestyleest.com.au CAKE Cherish the Cake cherishthecake.com PHOTOGRAPHY Russell Ord russellordphoto.com Paris Hawken parishawkenphotography.com.au

WORDS LISA O’BRIEN PHOTOGRAPHY RUSSELL ORD AND PARIS HAWKEN

INVITATIONS The Design Brewery etsy.com/au/shop/ TheDesignBrewery

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REAL-LIFE WEDDINGS

Alix & Paul A last-minute change of venue didn’t phase this Melbourne couple, who took it all in their stride and still managed to create a magical day.

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even years a er meeting at Alix’s cousin’s ‘Wear a Sassy Hat’ 21st birthday party, Paul popped the question on the beach at Wine Glass Bay, Freycinet National Park, while the couple were holidaying in Tasmania. “I was totally surprised,” remembers Alix. “It was a picture-perfect day, white-sand beach, blue sea, sun shining... pre y romantic!”

CHANGING IT UP Back in Victoria, the planning started. “We’re both pre y easygoing so we just took it in our stride and decided not to stress too much about anything,” says Alix. However, their laidback a itude was put to the test when they had to change their venue just three months before the big day. “The venue changed along with the date and time of the wedding – we went from a Saturday a ernoon to a Sunday morning,” says the bride. “We thought there might be problems with our other bookings, but the only major issue we had was with our invitations. We hadn’t ordered them until much later than anticipated, but the company we used was really quick with their order and delivery. Everything worked out well in the end and we had a magical day!”

A LITTLE BIT OF MAGIC That magical day began with an 11.30am ceremony at iconic Melbourne venue The Willows, with the ornate main building as their backdrop. Their vows were followed by a cocktail-style lunchtime reception in the conservatory. “Floral designer Georgia Kotschet did an amazing job with the flowers, and was also responsible for the venue setup,” says Alix. An arrangement of white flowers in vases of varying shapes and heights was the centrepiece, with a hanging arrangement of white tulips down one end and the menu wri en up on a giant blackboard. “It’s so hard to pick just one moment that stands out,” Alix says. “We simply enjoyed sharing the occasion with our nearest and dearest.”

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REAL-LIFE WEDDINGS

the suppliers PHOTOGRAPHY Sorrento Wedding Photography and Film sorrentoweddings.com.au BRIDE’S GOWN Georgia Young Couture georgiayoungcouture.com BRIDESMAIDS’ DRESSES Weddington Way weddingtonway.com HAIR & MAKE-UP The Makeup Room themakeuproom.com.au GROOM’S & GROOMSMEN’S SUITS Spurling spurling.com.au CEREMONY & RECEPTION The Willows thewillows.com.au

WORDS LISA O’BRIEN PHOTOGRAPHY SORRENTO WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY AND FILM

INVITATIONS DreamDay Invitations dreamdayinvitations.com.au

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REAL-LIFE WEDDINGS

Chenda & Leigh Going for festivities over formalities, this laid-back couple got the relaxed wedding they were after.

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nowing they wanted a casual reception venue rather than a traditional function centre, Chenda and Leigh found the ideal space at a cafe in the inner-city Melbourne suburb of Richmond. “We imagined somewhere cosy and intimate with amazing food and wine, and we found it all at Friends of Mine,â€? describes Chenda. “This was the ďŹ rst venue we looked at and we knew instantly it was perfect for us. We didn’t waste time and put down our deposit without looking elsewhere!â€?

DRESS DRAMAS For Chenda, the planning process had run like clockwork... until it came to her dress. “It turned out to be any bride’s worst nightmare – it never arrived,� she says. “I started to feel uneasy as the big day got closer and closer and I started to panic as there was still no dress to even try on one week before my wedding.

We have all heard the dress horror stories, but when it happens to you it feels surreal.â€? It was then a last-minute dash to ďŹ nd a dress in Perth. “The last few days before the wedding were a blur of ďŹ ings and alterations.â€?

ROMANCE IN THE GARDENS The pair exchanged vows at the JFK Memorial in the Treasury Gardens. “It was covered with leafy green trees and a fountain that was tucked away from the main part of the park.�

To match the reception, Chenda and Leigh kept the feel of their ceremony romantic and rustic, and wrote their own vows. “Our friends still talk about how beautiful the ceremony was.�

bride.com.au

REAL-LIFE WEDDINGS

Bride tip During the planning process, it’s easy to get caught up in all the details of a wedding, but it helps to remember what really ma ers is that you end up married to your best friend – it puts the stress of any planning disasters in perspective!

the suppliers PHOTOGRAPHY Brent Lukey brentlukey.com.au CEREMONY Treasury Gardens, East Melbourne RECEPTION Friends of Mine friendsofmine.com.au BRIDE’S GOWN Hobnob Bridal Perth hobnobbridal.com.au GROOM’S SUIT Simon Carter simoncarter.net CAKE FLOWERS & CEREMONY CATERING White Shepherd white-shepherd.com.au

WORDS STEPHANIE MIKKELSEN PHOTOGRAPHY BRENT LUKEY

INVITATIONS LaLa Design laladesign.com.au

bride.com.au

REAL-LIFE WEDDINGS

Gemma & Andy To pull together their rustic country wedding in less than five months, this Melbourne couple called on their family and friends.

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emma and Andy’s wedding may have been held where the bride grew up in Victoria’s upper Murray region, but the big proposal took place a li le further away – about 16,000 kilometres away, to be exact. “Andy proposed in the Dordogne Valley in the south of France, about a year a er we first met through a mutual friend,” says Gemma. “It was our first holiday together, which we had planned at length… although I clearly wasn’t privy to all the details! The proposal came as a genuine surprise, we’d had the most amazing day walking, canoeing and swimming, and I really didn’t imagine it could get any be er.”

OFF AND RACING Back home, the couple set about planning their big day. “We were engaged for nine months, but we didn’t begin to make wedding plans until the halfway mark,” says Gemma.

“Andy’s parents were also married on March 21, so when this date became an option, we were quick to book it. To be surrounded by so many friends and family willing to lend support in the lead-up made it completely manageable. The wedding came and went before we knew it!”

ALL IN THE FAMILY The family connection flowed through the whole day, starting with a ceremony in the original red brick building of Gemma’s local church. “We packed our closest friends and family into our tiny li le church (standing room only up the back) and included plenty of traditional and contemporary music in our service,” says Gemma. “Our band played ‘Dream Catch Me’ by Newton Faulkner while we signed the register, and we had guests throw heart-shaped confe i cut from gum leaves from my family farm – thanks Mum!”

AN AUSSIE CLASSIC The family farm also had a starring role as host of the reception, a three-course formal dinner for 125 guests. “I’m from a ca le property so we served fillet steak with greens and roast potatoes… you can’t beat a classic!”

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REAL-LIFE WEDDINGS

the suppliers PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY The Bower Co thebowerco.com BRIDE’S GOWN Gwendolynne gwendolynne.com.au BRIDESMAIDS’ DRESSES Zimmermann zimmermannwear.com GROOM’S SUIT Hemden hemden.com.au CEREMONY All Saint’s Anglican Church, Corryong, Victoria RECEPTION Private residence, Walwa, Victoria CATERING Fiona Landy Catering ďŹ onalandycatering.com.au FLOWERS Floral Harvest oralharvest.com

WORDS LISA O’BRIEN PHOTOGRAPHY THE BOWER CO

CAKE Cake It From Me cakeitfromme.com.au

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With everything you require for a magical wedding day, all in one place, Peppers The Sands /Peppers Moonah Links Resort is your ideal wedding location. Book your wedding for 2015 or 2016 and receive the following: Â&#x2021; &RPSOLPHQWDU\ QLJKW VWD\ LQ WKH EULGDO VXLWH LQFOXGLQJ buffet breakfast for 2 - valued @ over $300 Â&#x2021; &RPSOLPHQWDU\ DGGLWLRQDO KRXU URRP KLUH YDOXHG # Â&#x2021; YRXFKHU WRZDUGV \RXU UHFHSWLRQ URRP WKHPLQJ

/ ,$ R & ( E 63 FF O

Terms and conditions: Valid for Weddings held prior to 31 December 2016, subject to availability *theming voucher valid for theming provided by Peppers The Sands or Moonah Links Resort

NEWS

Capacity: Seated 130 Cocktail 300 Capacity: Seated 130 Cocktail 300 Special Features: Banjo Paterson Cottage features lovely landscaped gardens Special Features: overlooking Banjo Paterson features landscaped the Cottage water, two fully lovely enclosed verandas,gardens one with overlooking water, two fully enclosed verandas,water one with private accessthe to the gardens, both with stunning views private access to the gardens, both with stunning water views Packages: Packages:

Five hour packages including canapĂŠs, entrĂŠe, main course, Five hour packages including canapĂŠs, entrĂŠe, main course,

Pricing: Pricing:

Seated Packages t Standard $95, Deluxe $135, Premier $155.

Seated Packages t Standard $95, Deluxe $135, Premier $155.

Cocktail Packages t Standard $75, Deluxe $125, Premier $145.

Cocktail Packages t Standard $75, Deluxe $125, Premier $145. apply. for smaller smallerweddings weddingsand and apply.Private Privaterooms rooms are are available available for for non exclusive use. for non exclusive use.

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Facilities: Facilities:

Ceremonies free parking, parking,disabled disabled Ceremoniesin in the the gardens, gardens, ample ample free facilities, by private privateboat boatororwater water facilities,jetty jettyfor for arrival/departures arrival/departures by taxi, bar area. area. taxi,wishing wishingwell, well, lounge lounge and and bar

Address: Address: Phone: Phone: Email: Email: Website: Website:

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;In GladesvilleNSW NSW2111 2111 â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Inthe theParkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Parkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;end end of of Punt Punt Road, Gladesville (02) (02)9816 98163611 3611 banjopaterson@bigpond.com banjopaterson@bigpond.com www.banjopaterson.com www.banjopaterson.com

NEWS

The details Meet the designers behind Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most beautiful gowns The rise of the groomzilla (and how to tame him) Spotlight stress: how to deal when all eyes are on you

For all the advice, tips and ideas you need, visit bride.com.au

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FASHION

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FASHION

CONFESSIONS OF A

COUTURIER Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re the brains (and hands) behind the most beautiful gown youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll ever wear, but what really makes Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top bridal designers tick? Where do they get their inspiration from â&#x20AC;&#x201C; not to mention all those amazing fabrics? Bride went inside 10 bridal boutiques in Sydney and Melbourne to find out.

Words LISA Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;BRIEN Photography MINT PHOTOGRAPHY and THE BOWER CO

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FASHION

BERNADETTE PIMENTA BERNADETTE PIMENTA COUTURE

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NEWS

T

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

his year will be my 26th year as a designer.

It seems a long time â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and reveals my age! Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve only been in Australia for the past 16 years though. I love working and living in Australia, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s very diďŹ&#x20AC;erent here.

Girls will take more risks with wearing things that are not exactly fashionable or seem to be out of the bridal norm. Every couple of years thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a diďŹ&#x20AC;erent style or diďŹ&#x20AC;erent fabrics that come out, so it just depends on how we interpret it. Some girls love the big dresses and ďŹ&#x201A;amboyance but there are others who like elegance and simplicity, so I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t think thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a set style.

I get my inspiration from a lot of places. I love beautiful fabrics â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it could be a Chantilly lace, or some of the Dutch laces weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re using at the moment are gorgeous too. I like to go and see other designersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; collections. I went to Paris recently and saw some amazing fabrics that were so beautiful, and the clothes were as well. I love travelling, so sometimes my travels inspire me too.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s very diďŹ&#x192;cult to pinpoint a single bride who stands out in my memory, but one that comes to mind is a bride who ďŹ&#x201A;ew in from Brisbane. She came to Melbourne because she had heard about High Street in Armadale, and she walked into the store and just loved one of the dresses

at ďŹ rst sight. When I was cha ing with her and her mum, I asked why the wedding was so soon and she said it was because her husband was ďŹ&#x201A;ying to Afghanistan to ďŹ ght in the war. So we worked with her and made her feel comfortable, and I think that was the most memorable part of it all, listening to her story. She was so happy about everything, she just wanted to get married before her partner le for the war. She actually wrecked the dress a bit on the day because she didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t worry about anything, she just wanted the moment.

For brides who are starting their dress search, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nice to have an idea of what you want but donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have a dead set opinion about it, because it may not suit you. Do a li le bit of research, look at diďŹ&#x20AC;erent styles you like, and also keep in mind your body shape and what will suit you.

Fabrics are always changing, laces are changing, so when you go into stores always look for diďŹ&#x20AC;erent things that are available, rather than think, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Oh, I want thisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. Just keep an open mind â&#x20AC;&#x201C; wedding dresses are so diďŹ&#x20AC;erent to buying any other dress.

Most of all, feel comfortable with the couturier youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going with. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not comfortable, you wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t like going in for ďŹ ings. Also, take their ideas into consideration â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a er so many years, we sort of know what weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re doing!â&#x20AC;?

â&#x20AC;&#x153;I LOVE TRAVELLING SOMETIMES MY TRAVELS INSPIRE MEâ&#x20AC;?

NEED TO KNOW BERNADETTE PIMENTA COUTURE 1256 High Street, Armadale VIC 3143 (03) 9500 0770 info@bernade epimenta.com.au bernade epimenta.com.au

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CELYNA ZIOLKOWSKI ZIOLKOWSKI

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;

â&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been working in the fashion industry for more than 20 years, and in bridal and eveningwear for about eight years now. The part I love most is being able to create a brideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dream dress. We o en have brides come in here and say theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve tried to ďŹ nd their dream gown but nobody has the gown theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got in their head. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lovely to sit down with the bride and go through her dream â&#x20AC;&#x201C; what it is that she wants to create for her own particular look on her special day â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and then being able to design that dress for her. We o en have clients crying or giving us hugs, even in the initial consultation. Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re like, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Thank you, somebody ďŹ nally understands exactly what it is that I want!â&#x20AC;&#x2122; I think the bridal industry is a bit more fashion focused now. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re ďŹ nding that our clients are looking to whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s happening on the red carpet, and particular fashion trends are then ďŹ ltering through into the bridal industry as well. Sexiness is a big one at the moment.

Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a li le bit of luxurious sex appeal thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s coming through into the gown, whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a mixture of diďŹ&#x20AC;erent types of fabrics, like the contrast of sheer fabrics with a bit of texture or lace, or revealing elements such as a low back, a particular neckline, a hint of cleavage or diďŹ&#x20AC;erent hemlines with a bit of leg showing. But you also need to make sure itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s still wedding appropriate. I o en have brides say, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Look, would my grandmother approve of this?â&#x20AC;&#x2122; or â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Is this something that Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to show my dad?â&#x20AC;&#x2122; If it gets to the point where the priest or somebody else is saying youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got to cover up then I think thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s probably when youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve gone too far!

We like to experiment here, and we like a good challenge as well.

We like a li le bit of bling, whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s working with a sequinned material, which is quite popular at the moment, or something that has a bit of embellishment work, like beading or crystal. Our signature style is more of a slimline silhoue e rather than a big puďŹ&#x20AC;y meringue ball gown. We like that sleek look and any sort of fabric that will allow us to achieve that, whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lace material or sequinned fabric or even some of the beautiful stretch meshes and jerseys that are around as well.

It sounds simple, but make sure you can move in your dress. Some styles can look amazing on you but you might not be able to move or function. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve heard stories from the industry about brides whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve had an amazing gown but havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t been able to eat, drink, sit down or go to the bathroom the entire day. By the end of it, their ribs are bruised and theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve actually felt really terrible and sore, so I think itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s very important to make sure the comfort factor is in there. That way youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going to be able to enjoy every single moment of your special day.â&#x20AC;?

â&#x20AC;&#x153;CLIENTS ARE LOOKING TO WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ON THE RED CARPETâ&#x20AC;?

NEED TO KNOW ZIOLKOWSKI Suite 101, 410 Elizabeth Street, Surry Hills NSW 2010 (by appointment only) 0410 611 523 info@ziolkowski.com.au ziolkowski.com.au

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CRAIG BRAYBROOK CRAIG BRAYBROOK COUTURE

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studied fashion at RMIT, graduating in 1988. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d done a couple of wedding dresses when I was studying so basically it just rolled on from there and here I am now, still doing it. For me, bridal fashion is about creating something thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s over the top â&#x20AC;&#x201C; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not like doing ready to wear. Even to this day I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t make simple stuďŹ&#x20AC;, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just not in my blood. So everything is maybe a li le bit too ďŹ&#x201A;owery sometimes, but thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what I love doing. I love surface decoration, big skirts, using lots of fabric, and bridal allows you to do all of that.

Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to think my typical bride is more of a fashion bride, and more contemporary. I think some of my stuďŹ&#x20AC; is quite classic as well but it has a contemporary twist. My style has deďŹ nitely evolved over the years â&#x20AC;&#x201C; when I look back at my work from 10 to 15 years ago I kind of cringe and think, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t believe I actually did thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interesting because you think your style hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t changed until you look at what youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve done previously.

Trend wise, bigger skirts are coming back, and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m ďŹ nding really heavy embellishments like guipure laces or heavily embroidered tulles are huge. Pearls are coming back in a big way too. The real â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;sparkleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; look is dwindling. The â&#x20AC;&#x2122;80s puďŹ&#x20AC; sleeve is one trend I never want to see again. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m sure itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll come back one day though. Will I ever incorporate it into a gown? Never say never!

A lot of brides feel pressured to go for a certain look â&#x20AC;&#x201C; usually mums love that whole princess look, but the girls donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t. I think one of the major mistakes people make is not going with their gut and what they actually like, and being aďŹ&#x20AC;ected by what other people say. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t go to too many stores, limit it to four or ďŹ ve. Go through magazines, look online and see which designers have the look youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a er and then book in with them. Go with someone you feel comfortable with, because itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s quite an intimate process.

NEED TO KNOW CRAIG BRAYBROOK COUTURE 5/120 Cambridge Street, Collingwood VIC 3066 (by appointment only) 0429 530 038 craigbraybrook@hotmail.com craigbraybrook.com.au

When a girl comes to me for a dress, I like them to bring in some images of things they like, just so it tells me about their personal style and their taste. I sit down with them and go over their likes and dislikes, fabrics they like, colours they like, and that sort of thing. Then I will go away and sketch up ďŹ ve or six ideas, get them to come back, show them diďŹ&#x20AC;erent fabrics and take it from there.

Usually itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s four to ďŹ ve ďŹ ings before the dress is complete. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve had quite a few brides burst into tears at their ďŹ nal ďŹ ing and I always say, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;I hope itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s happy tears, not because you hate the dress!â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Seeing someone happy and knowing that you contributed to the happiness on their day is amazing.

I have had a few disasters along the way. My new puppy peed on a dress I was making and it wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t come out so I had to go and buy $700 worth of lace just to get the border. What can you do?â&#x20AC;?

â&#x20AC;&#x153;I CANâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T MAKE SIMPLE STUFF ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S JUST NOT IN MY BLOODâ&#x20AC;?

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JENNIFER GO JENNIFER GO BRIDAL COUTURE

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y mum’s a dressmaker and a designer, so I’ve grown up around her seeing clients and fi ing clients into dresses and formalwear. Then about six years ago, I thought I’d go out and do it on my own, so I quit my corporate job and now here I am!

I love the personal side of being a bridal designer. I work with my brides one on one, so I really get to know them as people and find out what they’re like, and then we can create something together. At the first appointment, I find out what they normally wear in their everyday life and also the type of wedding they’re having. From that point on, we’ll talk about the dress, feel the fabrics and discuss how elaborate she wants it to be. It’s quite an involved process but it’s just about ge ing the details out of each bride and helping them realise what they want.

A lot of my brides come in with no idea of what they want.

It’s like a journey – we’ll start with something they never thought they would try on in a million years, but then they’ll put it on and think, ‘You know what, this isn’t what I expected,’ and that’s the beginning of the journey. You try to open their mind and try on lots of different styles so they can arrive at a beautiful dress at the end of it all.

I personally prefer to stick with timeless styles, but with a li le extra something thrown in. It might be a twist on the traditional, it might be a li le bit of heavier embellishment – working with the trends but not completely on trend. I’ve seen a lot of style changes in the past six years, and I think it’s all to do with what happens in fashion. A few years ago it was all about peplums, and now it’s all about lace sleeves or illusion necklines. They all come and go, but at the end of the day if your designs are classic and the shapes are timeless, they’ll never date.

My top tip for brides? Do your research, so when you walk into a boutique you have a fair idea of what you’re looking for. Go on Pinterest, flick through magazines and see what interests you. Take those along and try on similar styles, then at least you can rule them straight out if they’re not for you and you can start looking at something else. If you go in with no idea of what you’re looking for, it could be a really overwhelming process because there are so many different styles, and it could all become a li le stressful.

I’ve been really, really lucky in that I haven’t had any run-ins with bridezillas. I think because my style’s not too over the top, all my brides are quite low key and they’re really, really nice. Fingers crossed it stays that way!”

“LUCKILY I HAVEN’T HAD ANY RUN-INS WITH BRIDEZILLAS” NEED TO KNOW JENNIFER GO BRIDAL COUTURE The Wedding Boutique, 208 Oxford Street, Paddington NSW 2021 (02) 9326 9999 hello@jennifergobridal.com jennifergobridal.com

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LILLI MARCS

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NEWS

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s a child, I dreamt of one day hearing my name mentioned on stage. Two years ago, that dream came true when my gowns appeared on the catwalk at the Melbourne Bride Wedding Expo. I was so excited. I’ve been sewing for more than 40 years but didn’t start my own business until I was older. Even though I started at a late age, I’m very happy that I did. I love being able to put a beautiful smile on beautiful brides’ faces. It’s hard to describe it because I just love what I do.

Brides today are more relaxed about gowns like ours, which are a bit different to the rest. My style is all about the body shape, with a silhoue e designed to follow the natural look of a woman’s body and show it off, rather than hide it under a big dress. I’m glad girls are going for the slinky look instead of bigger gowns. A er the wedding, many of my brides chop their dress to a cocktail length or dye it another colour, which works very well with the silks they’re made from. It’s not a gown you just put away in a wardrobe.

I do love my silk – I always work with silk. I wouldn’t use anything else for a bride because it’s a very special day

and a very special gown. I also love lace, and beading is a favourite as well. When somebody comes to show me some fabrics or laces or beading, I just close my eyes and see a gown in it. I said to someone once, ‘Is that strange?’ and they said, ‘No, it’s natural, it’s what you are.’ Audrey Hepburn is my inspiration. She always wore such simple, beautiful gowns, in styles that could still be worn today, tomorrow, next year, in 20 years’ time. They’re timeless.

I see so many brides trying to rush the process of finding their gown. They can’t be bothered to really look properly, so they buy the first thing they see off the rack only to end up coming in here saying they sold that dress and want to have something made. I always say to them, take your time, you can go back once, twice, try it again if you have to. I’m not like some people who say, ‘Oh, get this, it’s perfect on you,’ I say, ‘No, take your time, be sure about what you want to wear on the day.’ Make sure you’re happy in it. Many times I even ask them to sit down to see how comfortable it is to sit in it and then I say to them, when you’re ready, go and order the dress. It’s not a dress for shopping, it’s a dress for your wedding, and you’ll be seeing it in photos for the rest of your life.”

“IT’S NOT A GOWN YOU JUST PUT AWAY IN A WARDROBE” NEED TO KNOW LILLI MARCS 11 William St, Paddington NSW 2021 (02) 9357 4408 info@lillimarcs.com.au lillimarcs.com.au

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LOUISE ALVAREZ

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I

“

loved making things as a child, so it was a natural progression for me to grow up to make things for a career. I studied fashion and then worked in the city for about five years making wedding gowns in what was then one of the top couture places in Sydney. That was a great experience, but it also taught me how I didn’t want to run a business. I think the industry is known for being not so on-time, but everything I do, I do it in a very orderly way. As soon as someone pays their deposit, I get the fabric. It’s all very organised.

I’ve seen a lot of change in the 21 years I’ve been in the industry. I feel like brides are ge ing a bit younger now.

For years, they were probably all in their thirties, and I do still get girls in their thirties and even forties, but there’s been a real swing back to girls in their twenties ge ing married. I’ve really noticed that in the last five years. This generation are quite traditional in one way, but they’re also happy to do things their own way. They take all the traditions and then add their own li le bit of spice – they don’t necessarily have to follow rules. For instance, they’re happy to add a bit of colour on their wedding gown, or if they don’t want to have a fruitcake, they have a beautiful chocolate cake. It’s really lovely. It’s a nice time to be making wedding gowns at the moment.

I did two red wedding gowns at the end of last year and I’ve just completed a couple of floral gowns in a fabric called Clementina which is just gorgeous, it’s got lots of bright, spring-y colours. La e and nude shades with lace have also been very popular. I’ve always done quite simple, classic, elegant things, but we’ve worked with lots of lace and vintage looks over the last couple of years.

My advice to brides is just to keep it classic. I find that with my designs, even if someone saw a picture of one of my gowns from 10 years ago, they could still love it now.

That’s what you want, because when you look back at your wedding photos in 20 or 30 years you don’t want to think, ‘Oh my God, what was I thinking?’

I don’t really get the whole ‘bridezilla’ thing. Everywhere I go, people ask, ‘Do you get bridezillas?’ But I don’t really – I don’t a ract them for some reason and I’m quite happy about that. I think it’s because my gowns are quite classical and just appeal to a different kind of girl. I love all my girls, they’re all lovely. It’s a special time for people, so I feel really blessed that I’m included in that time, it’s nice being a part of that. I think the people you see on television [being difficult], they’re on television because they’re a bit unusual!

“IT’S A NICE TIME TO BE MAKING WEDDING GOWNS” NEED TO KNOW LOUISE ALVAREZ 27 Hill Street, Roseville NSW 2069 (02) 9904 6566 louise@louisealvarez.com.au louisealvarez.com.au

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MARIO CROCÉ INES COLOSIMO CROCÉ & COLOSIMO COUTURE

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ARIO “I’m a third-generation designer, both my mother and grandmother were dressmakers and I wanted to follow in the same path. Ines and I have been in business for about 25 years but we’ve been working together for longer than that. We try to keep our styling very true and make sure our gowns don’t date, so if we made something 20 years ago, you could still wear it today. It won’t be out of fashion.

M

Our gowns are all about structure, making sure they fit well, using unique laces and beautiful fabrics from Italy and France. We travel to Italy and Paris every year to handpick all of our beautiful fabrics. Ninety-five per cent of our range is from Italy – there’s nothing like being in Italy and looking at and feeling the fabric, then bringing it back home to create something amazing.

It’s hard to say exactly where we get our inspiration. Even just si ing outside a cafe in Paris, watching the locals walk up and down, you see the fashion and say, ‘Oh wow, that’s amazing, we can use this concept’. Our new collection is all about Paris and the Eiffel Tower – you can actually see the intricacies of the Eiffel Tower in some of the work.

Designing this collection and taking it to France last year was definitely a career highlight for me. It had always

been our dream to go to Paris and do a fashion shoot in front of the Eiffel Tower, and that dream came true.”

INES “I also come from a long line of dressmakers, and I’ve always had a flair for design. My forte is millinery, that’s what I do along with designing. So when Mario and I teamed up, he did more of the construction work and pa ern making, while I took care of the artistic side.

We both love beautiful things. We love laces, silks, organzas, chiffons, all fabrics really – we love good quality.

When we make a dress, we make sure it’s a good quality fabric because then you want to touch it, you want to feel it as you’re working. You get all excited. With some fabrics, you just want to eat them – well, I do – because they’re just so luscious, aren’t they?

There is something really special about bridal couture – you’re designing beautiful dresses for beautiful girls at a beautiful time of their life. And it doesn’t end in the shop itself. Not only do our brides get the service when they’re here, but also once we’ve finished the gown Mario goes and dresses them on the day to make sure it’s 100 per cent. We don’t forget them as soon as they walk out the door – for us, it’s our baby. It’s our gown and we want to make sure all our brides look special on the day.”

“OUR NEW COLLECTION IS ALL ABOUT PARIS – YOU CAN SEE THE INTRICACIES OF THE EIFFEL TOWER IN THE WORK” NEED TO KNOW CROCÉ & COLOSIMO COUTURE 560 Sydney Road, Brunswick VIC 3056 (03) 9387 8455 info@crocecolosimo.com.au crocecolosimo.com.au

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ROSE TIRALOSI ANNETTE OF MELBOURNE

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s a li le girl, I remember going to a local church every Saturday and looking at the brides ge ing married – I’ve always been fascinated with bridal gowns, right up until today. I never get tired of them; being a bridal couturier is what I was made for. I was very, very young when I started – I went to a beautiful family business in Li le Collins Street that did really high-end fashion and told them I was 15, but I was really only 14 years old. That’s where I did my training, and I cannot repay that family because I was loved, nurtured and taught all the fundamentals of what it takes to make a beautiful gown. You can’t buy that experience.

When I started, things seemed to be less complicated.

I don’t know if it’s us, the designers, that have brought complications into the fashion or whether we’re now at a different level. I remember when we first started, I would make a gown from a drawing almost to the final fit. It’s not like that today. Whether it’s because the designs are more complex or I’ve just evolved, I’m not sure. Both, I think. Fashion was quite simple in the ’70s – complicated in some ways but not as complicated as today. Today,

there are so many different levels to a gown, they are true works of art. We don’t have a signature design at Anne e of Melbourne, it’s about what’s best for the client. Even a simple silhoue e can be a thing of beauty. As long as it’s beautifully made, beautifully cra ed, beautifully cut, I’m done. A client might say to me, ‘Rose, I want the embellishments to sing in 10 languages.’ I get it. I’ll deliver.

I can see it. This is all I know how to do. If you say to me, ‘Rose, bake a cake,’ it’s not happening. I’ll order something from across the road. But bridal couture is what I do.

A lot of people ask if I do evening gowns as well, but I’m not interested. I just can’t see it. With an evening gown, they might end up wearing something else, whereas a gown for a bride is a fundamental thing – they’ve dreamt of that gown since they were born.

If you’re looking for a wedding dress, go with what your heart tells you, not with your head. Work with someone who can make that dream come true, because it’s a once-in-a-lifetime thing. I know that men think differently, but for a woman her wedding gown is like her song – it’s telling a story about her life, where she came from and where she wants to go.”

“EVEN A SIMPLE SILHOUETTE CAN BE A THING OF BEAUTY” NEED TO KNOW ANNETTE OF MELBOURNE 103 Charles Street, Seddon VIC 3011 (03) 9687 3981

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SONIA CAPPELLAZZO CAPPELLAZZO COUTURE

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come from an Italian background, and growing up I was surrounded by my mum and her sister, who would be sewing all the time.

I’d watch them cut fabrics on the kitchen table and quickly whip something up before they went out. My dad, being a carpenter, was always carving gorgeous things, so I was always around that process of seeing an idea come to fruition very quickly. I’m also 6’2”, so I was almost compelled to make clothes when I was younger because of my height. That was really where the passion started.

I was always very artistic, and a lot of my teachers noticed that and guided me in that direction.

Next year will be 20 years that I’ve been in business, which I find quite daunting and surprising. I remember my first day like it was yesterday – I opened the doors and burst out crying. I thought, ‘What have I done?’

Twenty years on, here I am loving it. It’s a new level of enjoyment, actually. I feel like I’ve learnt so much technically and emotionally. I’m in a different wave now, it’s just this gentle confidence about almost earning the right to say, ‘No, I think this is be er than that.’ That’s a beautiful place to be.

When it comes to fabrics, I love everything, I really do. I love lace, I love print, I love vintage co ons.

“I STILL GET EXCITED WHEN BRIDES SEE THEIR COMPLETED GOWN FOR THE FIRST TIME” I love effortless liquid silks, as well as those with a stretch element. I’m not drawn to anything in particular, it’s very impulsive, it’s a very reactive process for me. Even a person’s physique will stimulate a certain reaction to what she can wear. I love that my clients give me that freedom as well. Obviously I’m lead by them but the whole collaborative process is great.

I always find that when that occurs, the outcome is be er than either of us expected because you’ve allowed the fabric to talk to you, in a way.

We’ve created gowns for hundreds and hundreds of brides, but I still get excited when they see their completed gown for the first time. I love seeing an idea come to life, I love the excitement of the bride. When you see the final product and they’re euphoric about it and I’m satisfied that we’ve achieved the best result, then that’s really rewarding. In particular, when I get the professional photos and you see it all come together and just the love on that day, it’s special. It’s a really magical moment where I feel like I’ve contributed to this couple’s beginning in a very small but long-term way. Those photos will be passed on for generations and I think, ‘Wow, if their children ever open up the dress and see the label, there’s Cappellazzo Couture still present there.’”

NEED TO KNOW CAPPELLAZZO COUTURE 754 Burke Road, Camberwell VIC 3124 (by appointment only) (03) 9882 9355 sonia@cappellazzo.com.au cappellazzocouture.com

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WENDY MAKIN WENDY MAKIN BRIDAL DESIGNS

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started sewing as a very young girl. I just absolutely loved it so I knew it was what I wanted to do when I finished school. Instead of going to college, I decided to try to get an apprenticeship and the first company I contacted specialised in bridal wear, so that’s how I started in the industry. I fell in love with working with all the beautiful fabrics and laces and knowing it was the ultimate gown to make, so nothing else compared to that.

I was hooked – I believe it was fate and meant to be.

That was about 35 years ago. I was 17 and straight out of school.

I worked for that company for 12 years, and then the owners were retiring so my husband and I decided to take it on. We’ve had our business for 22 years now. As well as working with the most beautiful fabrics and laces, working with the brides, making them happy and creating their ultimate dress is just a dream job.

Simple, elegant, classic, timeless… they’re all words I like to use to describe my signature style. I like to use so , flowy fabrics, beautiful quality laces that don’t usually need too much beading. I’m very inspired by the ’50s era, Grace Kelly and Audrey Hepburn are my muses. The interesting thing is that bridal fashion has come full circle – there are a lot of gowns that I’m now revisiting that I was doing 25 or 30 years ago. If you stick with that very classic ’50s look, then the gowns will always stand the test of time.

Last year we held a retrospective fashion parade to celebrate the 21st birthday of our business. We paraded 21 gowns from the past 21 years, as well as 21 new gowns. A lot of the young girls at work had never seen some of the original gowns, and everyone said they thought they were just as beautiful today, which is lovely to hear.

Of all the gowns I’ve created, I’d have to say the pink floral Katelyn design has become a real favourite. I was recently in the UK for London Bridal Fashion Week, and when I was introducing myself to other international exhibitors, as soon as I said I was from Australia or that my name was Wendy they said, ‘Oh, the pink floral dress!’

It seems to have become my signature.

We’ve had girls from all over the world contacting us about this dress.

One girl, who actually owns a bridal shop in the States, couldn’t find it anywhere there, so she contacted us and just had to have us make her one. She actually loved the fact she couldn’t find it anywhere else because she wanted something really unique, so it made it even more special for her. It just wins hearts over!”

“I FELL IN LOVE WITH WORKING WITH BEAUTIFUL FABRICS” NEED TO KNOW WENDY MAKIN BRIDAL DESIGNS Brides on Collins, 1st/340 Collins Street, Melbourne VIC 3000 1800 629 054 info@wendymakin.com.au wendymakin.com

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FEATURES

THE RISE OF THE

GROOM OK, there are two of you on the day, but what happens when your groom goes more ‘zilla’ than you? Bride investigates where this new breed has come from and how to tame him.

Words PHOEBE HOOKE

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FEATURES

EVOLUTION OF A MONSTER Like the caveman who discovered fire and built tools out of rock, the groomzilla has adapted to his environment over time.

A-list wedding planner Josh Tully has been pulling big days together for almost a decade and has noticed a huge increase in groom involvement. “They’re almost giving the brides a run for their money,” he says.

He a ributes this social shi to the dynamic of the modern relationship, in which most women are working equal hours to their partner so need to share the load of organising a wedding.

Josh also says we’re now dealing with The Modern Man. “He knows his own style, he knows what he likes, he’s confident in who he is and the way he wants to look,” explains Josh. “A few years ago guys would think, ‘Oh, it’s all about the bride,’ but now when it comes to being put on a pedestal

ZILLA

for the day, grooms are extremely aware that all eyes are also on them.”

Jack organised his own professional styling for the day to ensure he had a wet shave, fresh haircut and was preened to perfection. “The florist presented us with our bu on holes at the very last minute to make sure they were all on the right side at the right height,” Jack says. “In fact, we had a discussion for half an hour on the type of knot we should have for our ties. A er all, if the bride needs to look good, the guys do too!” (They went with a Windsor, by the way.) Sam says Jack is always immaculately presented anyway, but their wedding stepped up the pressure a notch or 10. “We had discussed how we wanted to look our best for each other when we first saw each other. It was nice to know how much that meant to him as well as me.”

“MOST GROOMS ARE NERVOUS BUT HE WAS FREAKING OUT HE WANTED A SPECIFIC IRONING BOARD TO DO HIS SHIRT AND IT TOOK HIM MINUTES WHEN IT SHOULD TAKE TWO”

F

rom coordinated tuxes and private grooming to custom cars and live bands, guys are paying more a ention to weddings than ever before. Beneath their online invisibility cloaks, grooms-to-be now have private ‘My Wedding’ Pinterest boards.

They’re secretly following @the_lane for Insta inspo and they’ve even Googled ‘weddings’ and felt their eyes expand when the results show up. The days of brides-to-be tricking their fiancés into tux fi ings and florist meetings with promises of post-appointment beers are over.

Sam, 33, married Jack, 34, in front of 90 guests last December. Jack knew he wanted to be involved from the start.

“I think the most relevant way to describe it is like booking an amazing holiday that’s via a long-haul flight,” he says. “I am not a massive fan of flying so the countdown to going on holiday is stressful, but once the flight is over you are in paradise.” Men are now chomping at the proverbial bit to inject their ideas into the perfect occasion, and they’re even, slightly irritatingly, coming up with some of the best outside-the-box solutions. But what happens when your groom starts to take up your allo ed stress time throughout the planning experience? Or worse, on the day?

FROM DUDE TO DIVA As an experienced planner, it takes a lot to shock Josh. But one groomzilla pushed him to his limits. Benjamin, 32, planned all the finer details of his wedding to Amy because she held a high-powered job as the CEO of a large company and didn’t have the time to a end wedding meetings herself. Benjamin was Josh’s first encounter with the wrath of a panicked groom. “Most grooms are nervous on the day which is normal, but this one was just freaking out,” recalls Josh.

“He wanted a specific ironing board to do his shirt, and it took him about 20 minutes when it should take two.”

Ben, who’d imagined the day down to the bespoke centrepieces and even helped design the rings, then started to have a meltdown because it was raining. “I’ve never experienced a guy on a wedding day worried it’s raining,” says Josh. There’s a certain expectation of chaos in the bridal suite when the heavens open, but in this case it was Benjamin refusing to go outside for fear of muddying his custom-made shoes. “With a bride, you can predict what they will get stressed about,” says Josh.

“But with groomzillas, it’s a challenge and always a surprise.” bride.com.au

FEATURES

TAMING THE BEAST

Having an over-zealous groom has the potential to be a nightmare, but Josh explains that with the right taming techniques it can be a dream. For her big day, Sarah, 27, says her fiancé Danny, 29, was keen to get involved and take on decorating responsibilities, but he wasn’t quite the style connoisseur.

Instead of ruling him out completely, she played to his strengths. “Danny was at every canapé, main meal, beer and cake testing,” says Sarah. “He le the style and size to me and my team, but still felt involved in the creation of our day.”

To keep your groom at the ‘interested and involved’ end of the scale, rather than ‘psychotic and controlling’, Josh recommends sharing the load. “The wedding can’t be all about what the bride wants, there are two of you on the wedding day and in the marriage.” He says to make sure your partner’s ideas and input are being listened to and acted on. “The groom can o en come up with the best ideas and solutions,” he says. “So give him a chance.”

The positive of having an imageconscious groom means you’ll

“THERE ARE SO MANY ELEMENTS TO A WEDDING IF YOU CAN GET THROUGH PLANNING IT YOUR RELATIONSHIP WILL BE GOLDEN” both look your best on the day, so Josh says to put your hair rehearsals and the-perfect-heel research aside for a moment to help him with his look. “I’ve had a small bicker at a wedding about what time the hairdresser would be at the bride’s room and the groom’s room,” says Josh. “It was crazy – a few years ago guys would get a cut the week before and be done with it!”

If you’re bu ing heads over steak or chicken, traditional or modern, Josh says to bring in a third party. “There are so many elements to a wedding, if you can get through planning it, your relationship will be golden,” he

says. “But you won’t agree on everything, so bring in a mediator from the start like a planner, a friend or a couple to overrule you both instead of in-fighting.”

The moral of the story?

Welcome your groomzilla with open arms, because it means he cares. But make sure he doesn’t stomp all over your vision, because let’s be honest, you’ve been planning this day since you first saw Father of the Bride when you were 12.

He’s still a rookie.

On the flip side...

If your groom is more interested in his What’s App thread than helping you coordinate the wedding, expert Josh Tully has some tips to trick him into getting involved. When the day arrives, he’ll be relieved it’s his wedding instead of a surprise party.

4.

2.

1.

KEEP IT INTERESTING Pick up on something he is interested in outside of the wedding, like food and drink.

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DIARY DATES Always ask him to go with you to appointments so he doesn’t feel left out. He will probably say no to florist meetings or hair and make-up trials, but you can get him to go and scout for lighting or the perfect place setting.

3.

I LOVE YOU, MAN Brief the best man, who is going to be his rock on the day.

ORGANISED FUN Help him organise something to make it fun for him and his groomsmen.

Instead of heading to the local suit shop individually to get their suits fitted, encourage him to take his mates and make an occasion of it with dinner and some beers. This means the fun isn’t all controlled by ‘the wedding’.

5.

ALL IN THE DETAILS First thing on the morning of the wedding, have a quick run-through of the finer items of the day so he doesn’t feel lost. If you don’t have a wedding planner, get a friend who’s been involved in the organisation to take him through it so he can relax.

PLANNING

GLEN ERIN

AT LANCEFIELD In the heart of the country we offer you a complete wedding package, ceremony, reception and luxury accommodation in our boutique vineyard setting.

4.5 star boutique accommodation situated in the beautiful Macedon ranges and only a 35 minute drive from Melbourne airport and 50 minutes from the CBD.

Glen Erin at Lancefield 200 Rochford Road, Lancefield VIC 3435 tel: 03 5429 1041 sales@glenerin.com.au www.glenerin.com.au bride.com.au

PLANNING

stress?

Do you have spotlight

You were overjoyed when he put a ring on it, but between the planning and the parties, panic has set in. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s how to avoid a freak-out and enjoy the festivities.

Words NAOMI CHRISOULAKIS

bride.com.au

PLANNING

“W

ill you marry me?” It’s a simple question, but the subtext – “Will you submit to laser-like scrutiny from approximately 43,783 people for the next 12 months?” – isn’t as easy to see as that sparkly rock he’s slipping on your finger. It’s well-meaning, sure, but for some the social pressures of a wedding and the sense that you’re under constant scrutiny can be a serious source of anxiety. Totally normal, says psychologist Yuliya Richard from Blue Horizon Counselling (bluehorizoncounselling.com.au). “Being in the spotlight makes you feel more self-conscious of your behaviour and the way you are perceived by others. It can be extremely uncomfortable if you are a naturally shy and reserved person to discuss your private relationship in public,” she says. “Suddenly everyone wants to know intimate details about your partner and the proposal. If you prefer not to be the centre of a ention but feel obliged to act as people expect, then ‘faking it’ can cause extra stress.” Here’s how to squash spotlight stress and savour your big day.

Ringing it in Deep breaths – ge ing engaged is the first stop on the spotlight stress tour. “While I was so happy to be engaged and loved my ring, I o en didn’t wear it because of the constant barrage of ‘Have you set a date?’ and ‘Found a dress?’ questions that made me anxious,” recalls Sarah, 32. The questions are inevitable, says etique e expert Anna Musson (goodmanners.com.au), but there are ways to lessen their strain. The first step? Harness social media for good. “If you are daunted by telling all your friends individually, send out an email or post on social media,” she says, adding that this should only be done a er your family has been advised. “When it comes to the plans, it’s perfectly acceptable to be coy. Try a sweet smile with a vague, ‘We’re not sure of the details yet, just happy to take our time and enjoy being engaged, thank you.’”

When you can’t get out of telling the proposal story, think like a politician, says psychologist Erin Bowe (drerinbowe. com). “Chat to your partner about what your ‘sound bite’ is going to be. Rehearse a small anecdote that you’re happy to share, and then just get used to rehashing it whenever someone asks about how it all happened.” Alternatively, psychologist Lana Hall (lanahallpsychology.com) says to shi the spotlight back to the person asking those 25 billion questions. “Sometimes, people are excited by weddings because it reminds them of theirs. Ask them how they were proposed to or what season they got married in.”

The devil’s in the details Wedding planning can be stressful enough without your next-door neighbour interrogating you on your choice of poppies over peonies. “If it’s too overwhelming ge ing into all the details of things you’re not sure of yet, then focus on a few small things you’re happy to discuss,” says Erin. “It might be that you pick three details and keep the conversation focused on those. If you vaguely give

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an open-ended answer (say, you’re thinking pinks for colours, roses for the flowers and a vintage-y theme) then you can keep the conversation to just these three details.”

Now’s also the time to consider what you can do on the day to lessen your anxiety – starting with your guests.

“I had a lot of anxiety about having the ceremony in front of such a large audience,” says Zoe, 31. “We had about 125 guests, most of them from my husband’s side. I hardly knew most of these people and seeing so many new faces on the day certainly added to my nerves. My preference was for an intimate ceremony with only the closest of family and friends. I’m sure I would’ve been fine with the a ention in this scenario.” Ge ing the guest list right is key, says Yuliya.

“If there are people who make you feel uncomfortable, who you don’t fully trust, or who have a tendency to make you feel uneasy, don’t invite them.”

Finally, says Erin, don’t spend all your time thinking about off-white versus ivory. “Have a regular date with

“Have a regular date with your partner and time out for yourself where there’s no wedding talk” your partner and time out for yourself where there’s no wedding talk. It can be useful to spend time with people who, in the nicest possible way, don’t care about weddings.

Go fishing with your dad, spend time with toddlers, or join a class where the focus is on something else.”

The big (scary) day You want to keep things low-key? No problem, says Anna.

“Traditionally, the bride doesn’t make a speech, so you can skip that. The first dance can be for 10 seconds before others join in, cu ing the cake can be done by the kitchen, and hen’s parties and kitchen teas aren’t necessary.

Removing additional events is o en a relief for others, too.” Give yourself permission to do things differently – walk down the aisle with your bridesmaids, instead of a er them; do away with the bridal party announcement at the reception – if it lessens your stress.

Psychologically preparing for the spotlight can also help.

“Think of positive ways to deal with semi-strangers or unknown guests. If you have to invite some people you don’t know, think about short and pleasant conversations you might have with them and rely on your bridesmaids to help you move on to other guests,” suggests Yuliya.

“And focus on your groom. Talk to him prior to the day and reveal what you are worried about so he can support you.” Keeping your focus on smaller details can help if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the enormity of the day, says Lana. “Walking down the aisle, you might focus on your footsteps or the celebrant, rather than looking at all the people watching. During the ceremony, focus on the words being spoken and your fiancé’s face. This can help draw your focus away from your thoughts about what everyone is thinking.” It is about you and him, a er all!

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NEWS

Dreams come true

AT STUDLEY PARK BOATHOUSE 1 Boathouse Road, Kew, Victoria 3101 Phone: (03) 9853 1828 Email: info@studleyparkboathouse.com.au www.studleyparkboathouse.com.au bride.com.au

Photos courtesy of lightandshade.net.au

NEWS

Travel Honeymoons near and far: all the places you’ll be booking next Why everyone is going to Mexico (hint: it’s the coastlines and cocktails) Inside Australia’s best ski resort

For more honeymoon inspo, visit bride.com.au

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TRAVEL

Honeymoons NEAR AND FAR Find your perfect post-wedding holiday, with or without a passport.

C

lose your eyes and picture your ultimate honeymoon. What does it look like? Sipping cocktails with brightly coloured umbrellas in Bora Bora? Or wandering through the buzzing streets of one of the world’s biggest cities? Whatever your dream holiday looks like, you don’t need to go a million miles to find it – but if you want to, that’s OK too. All you need to do is spin the globe and say, “Take me there, please”.

SUPER LUXE NEAR: The Whitsundays, Queensland Think of a honeymoon cliché, anything from ‘paradise on earth’ to ‘tropical oasis’, and it can probably be used to describe the Whitsundays. These islands have long been luring loved-up couples with their sugar-sand beaches, azure waters and want-for-nothing resorts. Hop aboard a chartered yacht and drop anchor in a crystal-clear bay for an impromptu snorkel or scuba dive; take a paddle off worldfamous Whitehaven Beach or relax at Airlie Beach on the mainland. A handful of the uninhabited islands offer back-tonature beach camping – cue a romantic fire and stargazing.

STAY AT Qualia on the exclusive Hamilton Island, just a few barefoot steps from the Great Barrier Reef (qualia.com.au).

FAR: Côte d’Azur, France This stretch of coastline sets the standard for luxurious seaside glamour. With its mega-yachts, high-end boutiques and Michelin-blessed restaurants, the Côte d’Azur is peppered with all the gli erati’s favourite hotspots – Cannes, St Tropez, Nice and Monte Carlo. Between savouring champagne and shopping for Chanel, head inland to explore the region’s medieval villages like Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, Mougins and Èze, or take a trip to the foodie heaven of Provence. From May to September, the coast is at its peak – with both good looks and tourists – and with events such as the Monaco Grand Prix and Cannes Film Festival luring in even more visitors, check the calendar before you book.

STAY AT Cap d’Estel, a Mediterranean mansion perched on a secluded peninsula with a private beach, luxe spa and palm tree-do ed gardens (capestel.com).

The Whitsundays

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DESTINATION

CITY BREAKS NEAR: Canberra, Australian Capital Territory

Ningaloo Reef

BEACH PLEASE NEAR: Ningaloo Reef, Western Australia With its kaleidoscope-coloured coral and schools of darting fish, Ningaloo Reef is for those sea-seeking honeymooners keen to avoid camera-toting tourists at the Great Barrier Reef. Here, days are whiled away doing as much, or as li le, as you fancy. To unleash your inner Jacques Cousteau, make for the World Heritage-listed Marine Park, which covers the full 300km of the brightly-hued reef and has waters brimming with manta rays, humpback whales, dolphins, turtles and more than 500 species of fish. Visit between April and June to take a dip with the docile whale shark, the world’s largest fish. If keeping your head above water is more your pace, jump on a glass-bo omed boat. To play at Tom Hanks in Castaway, join a day tour to Muiron Islands; to really up the romantic ante, get permission to camp overnight.

STAY AT Sal Salis, a set of beachfront luxury tents that delivers on its barefoot safari promise (salsalis.com.au).

FAR: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Home of the Amazon, samba and Gisele Bündchen, Brazil is an eye-bogglingly beautiful country boasting pristine rainforests, buzzing metropolises and white-sand beaches.

Perhaps the most famous of these sandy stretches are Rio de Janeiro’s Ipanema (there’s even a song about it) and Copacabana (another song). Beaches here are do ed with postos (posts) that mark both the lifeguard stations and the subcultures that flock there. From postos one to six – Leme Beach to Copacabana Beach – you’ll find some of the world’s most glamorous hotels, a view of Sugarloaf Mountain and candy-coloured kiosks selling caipirinhas, Brazil’s national cocktail made from sugarcane liquor, sugar and lime. High season is from December to February, and the city heaves with energy in the build-up to Carnival, as days spent on the beach melt into nights spent cu ing shapes.

Stay with us on this one – there’s more to the nation’s capital than politics and Lake Burley Griffin. Canberra’s stock is on the rise thanks to a burgeoning wine scene, luxe boutique hotels and its lively locals. To do this city justice, wheels – two, four or otherwise – are a must, especially for venturing out of the city. For a ‘moon, there are the big-ticket items to tick off: the National Gallery of Australia, Parliament House, the Australian War Memorial. When it’s time to delve deeper into Canberra’s culture, there are a collection of smaller galleries – Belconnen Arts Centre, Canberra Museum and Gallery, Bungendore Wood Works Gallery – that are well worth a visit. If a day spent winery-hopping sounds tempting, the Canberra District wine region boasts 140 vineyards.

STAY AT Hotel Hotel, a new design hotel with rooms taking inspiration from the Australian shack (hotel-hotel.com.au).

FAR: Tokyo, Japan The Japanese capital puts the ‘city’ in city break. With nods to its rich history and tradition popping up around every corner and alley, Tokyo has also taken technology to dizzying heights. To experience swarming crowds and neon streets, take a jaunt to Shinjuku, an area complete with sleek skyscrapers, mega-malls, underground bars and the world’s busiest railway station. Gyoen National Garden is a peaceful park smack-bang in the middle of the district. For scenes plucked straight from a Gwen Stefani music video, mosey over to Harajuku; only a short stroll from Tokyo station is the Tokyo Imperial Palace, home to the Japanese Imperial family. In older neighbourhoods, prepare to stock up on handicra s and explore cobblestone lanes once walked by geishas. To be wowed by blossoming cherry trees, plan your trip for spring (March to May). And if you have time, take a day trip to the famous Mount Fuji.

STAY AT Park Hya Tokyo, an elegant designer den in Shinjuku where even the entry-level rooms are still pre y spectacular and morning yoga classes are just one of the hotel’s perks (tokyo.park.hya .com).

STAY AT Casa Mosquito, Rio’s first beachside boutique hotel where each room has a private terrace with amazing views of Copacabana and Ipanema (casamosquito.com). bride.com.au

TRAVEL

OUT-OF-THE-BOX ADVENTURE NEAR: Alice Springs, Northern Territory A tour of the Red Centre just isn’t complete without a sojourn to Alice Springs. While the town itself has a bit of a ‘love it or hate it’ reputation with travellers, it makes an ideal base for exploring central Australia, discovering Aboriginal art and uploading snaps of quirky outback events to Instagram (like the Henley-on-Todd Rega a, a ‘boat’ race held annually in the usually dry sandy bed of the Todd River). There are easy walking trails snaking through and from the town, but to see the terrain from a higher vantage point, take a helicopter tour to admire the West MacDonnell Ranges, Kings Canyon and Uluru from the air. Closer to the ground, camel and four-wheeldrive trips offer full-day, half-day and hour-long tours.

STAY AT DoubleTree by Hilton Alice Springs, an eco-friendly resort with stunning mountain views (doubletree3.hilton.com).

FAR: Marrakech, Morocco A humdrum market will never be the same once you’ve experienced what Marrakech has to offer. A maze of souqs, people-packed alleys and super-sized riads makes Marrakech a hive of North African action. With its blend of Arabic and Moorish culture, Marrakech is a place where bargain-hunters can flex their bartering muscles; spa-savants have muscles kneaded in tiled hammams; and adrenalin junkies can get their fix with mountain bikes and horse-riding. Djemaa El-Fna is Marrakech’s main square and prime territory for people – and theatre – watching. Expect snake charmers serenading cobras with hypnotising tunes, travellers being stamped with elaborate henna ta oos and local chefs dragging makeshi grills. In July and August, the temperature here can skyrocket to 35 degrees plus, so be sure to slip, slop, slap.

STAY AT Selman Marrakech, a palace-come-luxury-hotel at the foot of the Atlas Mountains where Arabian horse shows are a daily occurrence (selman-marrakech.com).

Hobart

MINIMOON MAGIC NEAR: Hobart, Tasmania Backdropped by the imposing Mount Wellington, the Tassie capital, Hobart, is a feel-good destination that has everything a mini-mooner could ask for. Thanks to artisanal produce, gastro pubs and fine-dining eateries, the food scene here is seriously on the up. The bars, restaurants and cafes do ed along the city’s historic waterfront are where peckish newlyweds can graze on top-shelf Tasmanian fare, while the nearby Salamanca Market – happening every Saturday morning – is a local institution. There are daytrips galore out of the city, from the picturesque Liffey Falls to Tasman Peninsula – home of convict se lement Port Arthur – and Bruny Island. You also can’t leave Hobart without a trip to art gallery MONA (but you already knew that).

STAY AT The award-winning Islington Hotel, with its eclectic rooms and top-notch service (islingtonhotel.com).

FAR: Bay of Islands, New Zealand Taking out the gong for New Zealand’s top tourist drawcard, it’s li le surprise why travellers continue to flock to this pre y corner of an even pre ier country. The waters of this North Island bay are a stunning turquoise flecked with 150 islands, so a swimsuit, sunglasses and sunscreen are essential. Mosey between tourist hub Paihia, historic Russell (it was the site of New Zealand’s first permanent British se lement) and laidback Kerikeri. Just north of Russell is Tapeka Point, where encounters with penguins, dolphins and marlin are on offer.

Travel by sea or air to Cape Bre and the ‘Hole in the Rock’ on Piercy Island. The region is also rich with Maori culture.

STAY AT The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs, an exclusive country manor with 180-degree views of the Pacific Ocean, a worldclass golf course and indulgent spa menu (kauricliffs.com).

bride.com.au

TRAVEL

Why is everyone going to

MEXICO?

Ask any recently hitched couple where they went for their honeymoon and chances are they’ll all mention one country. And when the water’s this blue and the margaritas this tasty, it’s really no surprise…

Words and photography SONIA TAYLOR

B

ut azure seas and delicious cocktails aren’t the only things Mexico has to offer loved-up newlyweds. The most populous Spanish speaking country in the world has culture in spades and a vibrancy that gli ers like the nearby Caribbean Sea. Throw in impressive beaches, outdoor activities, delicious food and culturally rich cities and it just about rounds out the textbook definition of ‘honeymoon’.

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And for those who might’ve overextended themselves with the champagne and cupcakes on their big day, the value of the peso means a slice of Mexican paradise can be yours for a fraction of the cost of a visit to Hawaii, Europe or the Maldives.

With a country this size it can be hard to know where to start, so we break down the most popular spots (yep, the ones you’ve seen on your Insta feed) and where to eat, play and stay while you’re there.

An ancient aqueduct in Puerta Vallarta

TRAVEL

LOS CABOS: Baja California This popular Pacific Coast tourist spot is just two hours from LA by air.

CABO SAN LUCAS may ring a bell due to its popularity with reality TV stars, but don’t let that put you off. Baja California is much more than Cabo, and one of the few places in the world where the desert meets the sea.

The Pacific Ocean and Sea of Cortes meet at Land’s End, the very tip of Baja California Sur. Here, rocky outcrops form a spellbinding natural backdrop, the feature being the striking jagged rock arch El Arco.

Get up close and personal with marine life on an island off the east coast near La Paz, the capital city of Baja California Sur. Kayak between Espíritu Santo’s sparkling bays, snorkel among the schools of colourful fish, visit a sea lion colony or swim with whale sharks.

Over on the west coast, you can polish off sunset cocktails before hopping on a boat bound for the bioluminescent waters of Magdalena Bay, where you can search for turtles under the starry night sky.

If you want to balance the buzz of Cabo with a more secluded couple-friendly location, the foothills of the Sierra de la Laguna mountains are just 30 minutes away. The pre y artists’ colony of Todos Santos is a must-visit, offering an abundance of art galleries and a taste of old Mexico.

Stay at the nearby Rancho Pescadero (ranchopescadero. com), a 15-acre oceanfront ranch where tequila is aged on site, fresh food is garden (or ocean) to table, a dolphin or whale sighting is no big deal, and baby turtles hatch on the ranch’s private beach. You’ll be perfectly positioned to enjoy Baja’s bounty and excellent year-round climate.

El Arco, Land’s End

PUERTO VAL RTA & Riviera Nayarit Head south from Baja for beach towns with a seriously relaxed vibe.

AUSSIES ARE NO strangers to the Pacific coastline, but where this 320-kilometre expanse differs from ours is in its authentic Mexican beach towns, mangrove forests, exclusive resorts and colonial heritage.

Rich in native Huichol culture, the Riviera Nayarit sweeps north of Puerto Vallarta. Forgo the ritzy resorts of Punta Mita in favour of the once-sleepy fishing village of Sayulita – despite a boom in recent years, the surf is always up and there’s still a chilled-out boho vibe. Lovers of low key will take to the tiny beach town locally known as San Pancho.

Nestled between jungle-covered mountains and pristine Pacific beaches, it has one main street, some wonderful restaurants, a polo club and arts festival.

The resort town of Puerto Vallarta is large enough to wander aimlessly and coastal enough to rack up some serious beach time. Flanked on one side by the Sierra Madre mountains and on the other by the blue waters of the Bay of Banderas, this picturesque se ing has been enamouring visitors for years – and you’ll be next.

Puerto Vallarta’s aptly named Zona Romantica is all cobbled streets and white stucco buildings, offering as much for arty types as for history buffs. Stroll along the Malecón (boardwalk) to enjoy gorgeous ocean views.

Splurge on your stay at Casa Velas (hotelcasavelas.com), an all-inclusive, adults-only affair; or check out the highlyrated inn Rivera del Rio (riveradelrio.com). bride.com.au

TRAVEL

IS HOLBOX, Isla Mujeres & TULUM Idyllic islands and the town that needs no introduction.

LEAVE THE MEGA resorts of Cancun behind for an enchanting experience on the Riviera Maya, a stretch of Caribbean coastline on the YucatĂĄn Peninsula. Beyond the famed white sands and dazzling aquamarine water, the coastline and its nearby islands are steeped in thousands of years of Mayan and Aztec history.

Isla Holbox is a relaxed island where the Gulf of Mexico kisses the Caribbean Sea (and once you see it, you might just do the same). You wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t ďŹ nd cars on the packedsand streets and, by law, no building is taller than three storeys. Swimming with whale sharks in the shallow waters is a famous activity that put the island on the map.

Isla Mujeres is cute, colourful and slightly more developed than Holbox, but you can still expect the same sapphire shades in the water. Older locals hang out in the streets, eyeing oďŹ&#x20AC; the daily arrivals by fast ferry from Cancun. From Isla Mujeres you can take a dive to the Museo Subacuatico de Arte for an otherworldly adventure at the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ďŹ rst underwater sculpture park.

Back on the mainland, the secret is well and truly out on Tulum. One hour south of Playa del Carmen, this fashionably eco-conscious town is the epitome of relaxed romance. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll ďŹ nd hammocks ďŹ&#x201A;anked by palms swinging in the Caribbean breeze, and pass wooden signs for ďŹ sh tacos entwined in ďŹ&#x201A;owers and vines, enchanting jungleside restaurants, and beautifully designed boutiques and hotels as you cycle the single-lane beach road.

With a distinctly holistic feel, yoga is ubiquitous in Tulum, as is traditional Mayan sweatlodge, temazcal, and other types of healing ceremonies. The beach strip impresses

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Rosewood San Miguel de Allende

TRAVEL

Tulum Beach

CENTRAL HIGH NDS: San Miguel de Allende Change up the coastal vibes with this central city.

visitors with surprisingly inventive, fresh cuisine and the likes of Hartwood, Restaurare and Posada Margherita lead the charge. The town is a 10-minute drive from the beach with affordable dining and shopping options.

You can’t leave Tulum without exploring opposite ends of the beach road: at one, stunning cliffside Mayan ruins overlooking the Caribbean Sea, and the other, a fertile biosphere reserve. The Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve spans 1.3 million acres of mangroves, grasslands, jungle, lagoons, rivers, canals, lakes, reef and cenotes, and there are various guided tours you can take into this special UNESCO World Heritage Site.

A natural wonder unique to the Yucatan is the cenote: a sinkhole that results from limestone bedrock collapsing in parts, exposing beautiful fresh groundwater lagoons or cavernous wonderlands made for swimming (and Instagram). The Maya revered these spots as entrances to the underworld, and there are multiple sites surrounding Tulum and Playa del Carmen (Dos Ojos and Gran Cenote are a good start). It’s worth driving toward Valladolid to seek out famous cenotes such as Ik-Kil and Cenote Maya (where you can also do a yoga class). From Valladolid, it’s a short trip to the ancient temple site of Chichen Itza.

Tulum’s niche is eco-chic, so you can rent sustainable cabañas, bungalows, teepees or villas. Try Ahau Tulum (ahautulum.com), Be Tulum (betulum.com) or Encantada Beachfront Boutique Hotel (encantadatulum.com).

AS FAMOUS for its history and beauty as for its eternal spring, the city of San Miguel de Allende enchants both young and old (so you know you can definitely come back for your 25th wedding anniversary). A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the star a raction is the town itself with its beguiling cobblestone streets, 16th-century Spanish colonial architecture, world-class culinary offerings, botanic gardens, galleries and artisanal handicra shops.

The rolling expanses of the countryside are a highlight, and local restaurant/school/farm initiative Vía Orgánica organises guided horseback riding and gourmet food tours on their sustainable ranch, 20 kilometres from town.

You’ll also find Mexico’s ‘Sistine Chapel’, the Santuario de Atotonilco, just outside the city, and natural thermal springs to bathe in at Escondido Place or La Gruta.

San Miguel de Allende has no shortage of lush accommodation – think floral roo op terraces, colonial Mexican flourishes and nirvanic gardens. Casa Schuck Bed & Breakfast oozes old-world hacienda charm (casaschuck.com), while Rosewood San Miguel de Allende is on a grander scale (rosewoodhotels.com).

Cenote Ik-Kil

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HONEYMOON SUITE

Your perfect wedding venue Vibe Savoy Hotel Melbourne is the ideal venue for your wedding. Catering for a range of weddings styles, from lavish banquets and cocktail soirees, through to large formal receptions in our Art Deco Grand Ballroom.

Our elegant function rooms have high ceilings and historic charm. The hotel can cater for up to 160 guests for a sit-down dinner and up to 320 for a cocktail reception. Contact our wedding planner on (03) 9622 8888.

At Vibe Hotels itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all about you, our thoughtful wedding planners are on call to assist you with every detail.

Our recently opened Vibe Hotel Marysville and Conference Centre also caters for weddings if you are looking for a country retreat venue, or a peaceful honeymoon escape. Contact our wedding planner on (03) 5957 7700.

Mention â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bride Magazineâ&#x20AC;? to receive a further 10%* off any of our wedding packages.

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HONEYMOON SUITE

PACK YOUR BAGS BEST FOR? A new take on a popular destination – this is one minimoon you haven’t already seen all over Instagram!

BEST TIME TO GO? The ski season ends on September 28, so late spring and summer is the perfect time to make the most of all the awesome outdoor activities on offer.

FALL INTO P CE QT Falls Creek

WORDS LISA O’BRIEN. PHOTOGRAPHY QT FALLS CREEK.

It may be located in one of Australia’s most popular ski destinations, but there are plenty of reasons to visit this quirky boutique hotel a er the snow has melted.

W

hen a hotel’s named Australia’s Best Ski Resort in the Luxury Travel Gold List for two years running, you know they must be doing something right. But we’re here to let you in on a li le secret – QT Falls Creek is still pre y impressive once the temperature hits double digits.

For a few years now, savvy travellers have been hi ing ski resorts out of season for a number of reasons – it’s usually less crowded, much cheaper and, while skiing and snowboarding are off the itinerary, the rugged landscape opens up plenty of other outdoorsy activities for adventurous couples.

QT Falls Creek makes the perfect base for adrenalin junkies to take advantage of everything on offer in the local area – hiking, cycling, mountain biking, kayaking, boating,

horse riding and fishing. But if you’re more of a ‘chill out at the resort’ type of person, head straight to spaQ, where you can choose from signature treatments like The Snow Queen (Javanese body scrub and skin hydration, full body massage and Tamanu oil facial massage) or the Weekend Warrior (organic sea salt back polish, full body massage and facial therapy).

And once it’s time for bed, choose from one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, or treat yo’self with one of the penthouse options. Expect the QT brand’s fun, quirky design in each room, as well as all the mod cons you could possibly need. The pièce de résistance? Each apartment has a private outdoor terrace with a hot tub boasting views of the surrounding ski runs (which are still totally picturesque without the snow).

Trust us, this is a honeymoon hotel you can definitely fall in love with.

WHAT’S THE FOOD LIKE? Bazaar is QT’s acclaimed international restaurant, offering flavours from around the world. A er dinner, head to Stingray for a delicious cocktail in chic surrounds inspired by 1950s nostalgia.

HOW MUCH WILL IT COST? Visiting QT Falls Creek in the off-season doesn’t just mean the weather will be warmer – it will be cheaper, too. From September 28 onwards, one-bedroom apartments start from $199 per night, two-bedroom apartments from $299 and three-bedroom apartments from $379.

HOW DO I GET THERE? Falls Creek is a five-hour drive from Melbourne or a seven-hour drive from Sydney. To cut down your time in the car, fly into Albury (Virgin Australia, Qantas) and it’s less than two hours’ drive time from the airport.

For more info or to book your stay, visit qtfallscreek.com.au.

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STOCKISTS

the bride boutique Where to find all the suppliers featured in this issue.

AQUILA aquila.com.au ARABEL LEBRUSAN arabellebrusan.com CERRONE cerrone.com.au CHELSEA DE LUCA chelseadeluca.com CHIE MIHARA chiemihara.com DIANA FERRARI dianaferrari.com.au ELLY LOU mocha.com.au/elly-lou.html EMBELLISH ATELIER embellish-hats.com FLORSHEIM florsheim.com.au FOREVER NEW forevernew.com.au MARIA ELENA HEADPIECES & ACCESSORIES mariaelenaheadpieces.com MIMCO mimco.com.au MODCLOTH modcloth.com

ELIZABETH ARDEN elizabetharden.com.au HOURGLASS hourglasscosmetics.com LAURA MERCIER lauramercier.com L’OREAL PARIS lorealparis.com.au MAC maccosmetics.com.au MAYBELLINE NEW YORK maybelline.com.au MODELCO modelcocosmetics.com NAPOLEON PERDIS napoleonperdis.com NARS narscosmetics.com NUDE BY NATURE nudebynature.com.au REAL TECHNIQUES realtechniques.com.au SMASHBOX smashbox.com STILA stilacosmetics.com

FASHION

NOMIKI GLYNATSIS COUTURE nomikicouture.com.au

ALEEM YUSUF aleemyusuf.com

NOTA notashoes.com

ANNETTE OF MELBOURNE (03) 9687 3981

REPETTO PARIS repe o.com

BERNADETTE PIMENTA COUTURE bernade epimenta.com.au

HEAVENLY COLLECTIONS heavenlycollections.com.au

RHONDA HEMMINGWAY COUTURE rhondahemmingway.com.au

HELEN RODRIGUES helenrodrigues.com.au

SIMONE PÉRÈLE en.simone-perele.com

LILLI MARCS lillimarcs.com.au

SWISH swishclothing.com.au

LOUISE ALVAREZ louisealvarez.com.au

THE WEDDING BOUTIQUE theweddingboutique.com.au

LUV BRIDAL & FORMAL luvbridal.com.au

VERA WANG verawang.com

CRAIG BRAYBROOK COUTURE craigbraybrook.com.au

MARRY ME BRIDES marrymebrides.com.au

WENDY MAKIN wendymakin.com

CRISTAHLEA cristahlea.net

MATICEVSKI tonimaticevski.com

WHITE RUNWAY whiterunway.com.au

BENEFIT benefitcosmetics.com

CROCÉ & COLOSIMO crocecolosimo.com.au

PENRITH BRIDAL CENTRE penrithbridalcentre.com.au

ZHIVAGO houseofzhivago.com

CLINIQUE clinique.com.au

DECLIC declic.com.au

PEPPERS peppersformalwear.com.au

ZIOLKOWSKI ziolkowski.com.au

SECRETS SHHH secrets-shhh.com TED BAKER tedbaker.com TODS tods.com TONY BIANCO tonybianco.com.au VIKTORIA NOVAK viktorianovak.com.au YUMMII & I shop.yummiiandi.com

BEAUTY

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CALVIN KLEIN calvinklein.com CAMILLA AND MARC camillaandmarc.com CAPPELLAZZO COUTURE (03) 9882 9355 CARLA ZAMPATTI carlazampa i.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHY NICK SCOTT.

ACCESSORIES

Commemorate Your New Life Together... with a special Commemorative Marriage Certificate.

Holding Hands

Waratah

Rose

Diamond Rings

Cut the Cake

Marriage Rings

Commemorative Certificates are a unique memento of your wedding day and can be displayed in a frame as a keepsake or become part of your album as an everlasting memory. Commemorative Certificates are purchased as a $74.00* package that includes a Standard Marriage Certificate (valued at $51.00) that can be used for official purposes. With each package, additional Commemorative Certificates can be purchased for $23.00 each.

To apply for a certificate, speak to your celebrant, visit our website or phone 13 77 88.

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Justice

Registry of Births Deaths & Marriages Commemorative Marriage Certificates do not contain security features and organisations may not accept them as a proof of identity document. *Prices are correct at time of printing and include postage, handling and GST where applicable.

Commemorative Certificates are A4 in size (210mm x 297mm).

Phone: 13 77 88

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BRIDE

Congratulations ON YOUR ENGAGEMENT

Therese Camm MARRIAGE CELEBRANT

Jenny Szymanski MARRIAGE CELEBRANT MELBOURNE I am delighted to facilitate your journey to unite together in marriage.

I look forward to working with you both, to bring your ideas, thoughts and beliefs together in your wedding vows and share your amazing ceremony with your family and friends.

I am available to travel to rural Victoria and interstate should you wish.

tel: 0412 868 064 jennyjszymanski@hotmail.com

Ceremony tailored to your needs.

Modern and friendly approach.

I promise to make your day special! e: theresecamm@bigpond.com ph: 0409 407 556 https://www.facebook.com/pages/Therese-CammMarriage-Celebrant/661822460515334

Mauritius

Honeymoon, Wedding & Holiday Specialists to Mauritius & Africa

Freecall 1800 624 268 www.JourneysAfrica.com.au

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PLANNING

ask the expert ELIZABETH RICCI Flower Temple For this Melbourne florist and stylist, creating beautiful flowers for a bride starts with understanding their unique personal style – and then building a bouquet that will go the distance.

What’s your background? How did you get started in floristry and styling?

“I’m originally from a visual merchandising background, which involved creating displays to engage and connect with consumers. My passion is photography, so it didn’t take long to grow a passion for flowers, particularly weddings and events.”

Where do you get your inspiration?

“My inspiration is really driven by all things beautiful, particularly nature.”

What services does Flower Temple provide?

“We can provide a bouquet service for someone who just walks through the door and wants a bouquet made on the spot, to the full floral and decoration wedding service.”

Tell us about Flower Temple’s signature style.

“We don’t have a signature style either!

We have a very diverse customer base and therefore we have to adapt to different styles that are trending throughout the world, as well as maintain beautiful workmanship.”

What are the big trends you’re seeing in wedding flowers at the moment?

“Botanicals. It’s all about nature at the moment and tonal pale es with pops of colour.”

What’s the biggest mistake brides make when it comes to their flowers?

“Not making an informed decision. They may have seen a photo of something they like, but some bouquet images are photographed from certain angles that connect with the brides but aren’t practical for the journey of the day. Quite o en, the bouquet doesn’t look so good a er it has been handled for a short while. It is so important to deal with reputable florists who can achieve good structure for the bouquet to last all day and also construct it to look natural, free flowing and unstructured.”

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What are your favourite flowers?

“I don’t have one particular favourite. I love compilations of flowers, textures and colours that come together to tell a story.”

Bride tip

What are five questions every bride should ask her florist before signing on the do ed line?

“Today’s bride is a very savvy bride, she has done most of her research before she engages with a supplier. If a bride is dealing with a professional and reputable florist, she’ll find she doesn’t need to ask questions, the general progression of a consultation will mean all the answers should be delivered naturally. Being transparent on both parts will make for a seamless execution. The bride should be able to provide a platform for the florist to work from, including a budget and style, and the florist should be able to provide feedback and expert knowledge on achieving the best results and beautiful customised flower arrangements for each individual bride.”

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Find out more about Flower Temple at flowertemple.com.au. bride.com.au

According to Elizabeth, botanicals are huge for wedding flowers right now. Get the look by incorporating foliage and seed heads into your bouquet – as well as beautiful blooms!

TUTT

W W W.T A K E U S T O T H A I L A N D . C O M

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