intouch Magazine Autumn Weddings Special Feature

Autumn

WEDDINGS SPECIAL FEATURE

FEATURE // Autumn Weddings Newcastle Museum

CREATE MEMORIES

AT NEWCASTLE'S TREASURED ICONS The historic buildings that make up Newcastle Venues have been part of the city's fabric for a combined total of 417 years.

The grandfather of the family is Fort Scratchley, built in 1821, followed by the railway workshops now home to

38 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Newcastle Museum constructed in 1882 and the baby of the family, Newcastle City Hall, which opened in 1929.

These iconic buildings provide the perfect backdrop for history-making events. They are special spaces with quintessential Novocastrian personality and tradition that can be re-imagined for contemporary weddings of all sizes and styles.

Each venue provides their own unique features and experiences complemented by decoration services provided by Cupid's Corner Wedding and Event Hire and in-house catering services. From sweeping coastal views to soaring arches and rustic brickwork, there are plenty of photographic opportunities to capture the perfect day.

Newcastle City Hall - With its simply stunning 800 seat Concert Hall and six other rooms to choose from, Newcastle City Hall has the capacity and experience to host large scale grand weddings of more than 200 guests as well as intimate occasions.

Time and time again, brides fall in love with the stunning architecture, arched windows, carved ceilings and parquetry floors that make City Hall so special.

Newcastle City Hall has recently engaged Venue Management Services (VMS) as their new contracted caterers.

The VMS food philosophy revolves around supporting local food and beverage producers and creating menus utilising the freshest seasonal produce. Menus created for Newcastle City Hall demonstrate a commitment to ethically and sustainably grown food and wines from the Newcastle region.

Fort Scratchley - Fort Scratchley, with its unrivalled views from the Newcastle Ocean Baths to Nobbys Beach and across the City and Harbour, is perfectly positioned for wedding ceremonies and receptions.

Ceremonies can be conducted on the Fort Scratchley grounds looking out across the Nobbys headland to the horizon

beyond. The photographic opportunities are awe-inspiring.

For intimate weddings, the Barracks provides a unique and atmospheric venue with unrivalled views over the harbour. The light-filled Function Room with its alfresco verandah offers a contemporary space complete with ocean views, just perfect to celebrate your love.

Blue Star Catering is the exclusive and award-winning onsite caterer at Fort Scratchley. Blue Star Catering consistently provides exceptional service combined with delicious menus and quality local wines. Their experience in providing those little details that make your wedding run seamlessly is second to none.

Newcastle Museum - Stunning exposed brickwork and an eclectic mix of industrial and contemporary design make Newcastle Museum an exceptional and authentic venue in the heart of the city From the jaw-dropping Earth Ball to the soaring ceilings and natural acoustics of the Link Gallery, the Museum has truly unique spaces and is a spectacular alternative to traditional function centres and hotels to host your wedding.

Working with the best - To ensure that your wedding looks just as you had imagined, the team at Cupid's Corner Wedding and Event Hire can work with you to create that look and atmosphere you desire. Cupids are the recommended decorators at both Newcastle City Hall and Fort Scratchley, and they use their on-trend range of decorations to complement the individual characteristics of these iconic Newcastle Venues perfectly.

Take a tour - The dedicated and experienced staff at Newcastle Venues are happy to take you on a tour of all three venues so you can discover them for yourself.

To make a booking or for further information visit www.newcastle.nsw.gov.au/newcastle-venues or phone 4974 2166.

Autumn Weddings // FEATURE

Decking Out the

BRIDESMAIDS! If you’re searching for bridesmaids dresses, look no further than Forever New and Review, both exclusively located at Charlestown Square. With a stylish and affordable range of beautiful dresses and accessories available in sizes 6 – 16, there are always plenty of choices available for that classic ‘special-occasion’ outfit.

Take a look at a few beautiful dresses in store now, in colours on trend for this season and flattering for many complexions. Charlestown Square is the largest shopping destination in the region, with Myer and over 100 fashion, accessories, jewellery and beauty stores including Mecca Maxima and M.A.C. Cosmetics – whether you have to dress just one bridesmaid or a whole netball team of them – Charlestown Square is your one-stop centre.

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To ensure that everyone looks and feels fabulous on that special day – follow Stylist Natalie Baker’s tips: • Choose styles that suit the body shapes of all your bridal party; • Select outfits that complement the theme of your wedding; • Invest in good undergarments and make sure they fit perfectly to provide a smooth canvas!; • Opt for shoes that fit (and are fabulous!) and try wearing them for a short time before the big day; • Hold back on the bling – remember the wise words from Coco Chanel… “always remove one thing before you walk out the door.”

And make-up? Choose a look that will highlight each person's best features and avoid trying new colours.

LOOK A Forever New Lexi Structured Hi-Lo Prom Dress - $199.95, Colette MultiRow Pearl Necklace - $16.99, Posy from Pushing Pansies - POA LOOK B Review Elegance Maxi Dress - $329.99, Posy from Pushing Pansies - POA LOOK C Forever New Karina V Neck Split Front Dress - $169.95, Forever New Marisa Embellished Cape - $69.95 LOOK D Review Glitterati Dress - $319.99, T2 Mandala Nights Star Tumbler - $18

The first course for your celebration will be amazing!

Merewether Golf Club offers an international experience with Michelin Star Chef Scott Webster.

A magnificent location for cocktail parties, weddings & corporate events.

Merewether Golf Club functions offer a variety of food & banquet options.

Contact the club for function and menu options or visit: www.merewethergolf.com.au 49631128 www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 39

FEATURE // Autumn Weddings

Skincare TO-DO Before Saying I DO! WORDS MELANIE MAY for #WestfieldKotara

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tamburlaine.com.au 40 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

The date has been set, your dress has been ordered and the guest list is coming together. Now it’s time to plan your skincare regime to ensure you are the most beautiful bride you can be.

Your skin is an investment, and the sooner you can start your bridal routine, the better. Twelve months is ideal but with the madness of planning a wedding at six months is more realistic.

6 MONTHS PRIOR • Book a free consultation with a beauty specialist to set up a personalised plan (and stick to it).

• Work out if you prefer a relaxing salon spa environment like endota spa or a no fuss, just results treatment from a beauty concession counter found in David Jones.

Top tip: if you like the warm towels and hypnotic soundtracks while being rubbed, scrubbed and pampered, then a salon is the best option. If you’d prefer a treatment room without the bells and whistles and a cosmeceutical facial that is 100% redeemable on product purchase, then a counter treatment will be the one for you.

• Beautiful skin starts from within and when you have healthy eating habits the benefits will flow throughout your body resulting in clearer skin, less bloating, more energy and a deeper sleep.

3 MONTHS PRIOR • Incorporate products into your at-home routine that will complement your professional treatments. Essentials to use: • SK-II Facial Treatment Gentle Cleanser for your daily cleanser • An oil or serum like Ultraceuticals Ultra B2 Hydrating Serum • SK-II R.N.A Power Radical New Age Moisturiser • Ultraceuticals Ultra UV Protective Daily Moisturiser SPF30 for sun protection • Products that target your areas of concern such as anti-ageing, pigmentation, hydration, etc.

• Ultraceuticals and SK-II in David Jones both have treatment packs to help start your skincare range at home.

• Ultraceuticals is renowned for their RVR90 program which is their scientifically proven program designed to transform your skin in 90 days, there are options for both oily and dry skin, and both contain a cleanser, moisturiser and UV protection.

• SK-II’s range is founded upon their secret ingredient, Pitera. It’s full of vitamins, amino acids and minerals that help to promote the natural surface rejuvenation process to help encourage soft and smooth skin.

• Top Tip: Book any appointments for the week of your wedding now.

Pictured Above: SK-II Pitera Essence Set; Ultraceuticals RVR90 Essential 2-3 WEEKS PRIOR Skin Kit Dry/Normal; Endota Spa Favourite Things Pack.

• Trim and colour your hair • Groom the ‘Groom.' Does your man need a haircut? Now is the time to remind him • Keep your body glowing with weekly exfoliation and regular moisturizing. Don’t forget your hands, neck and elbows!

• Shape eyebrows • Treat yourself to the endota organic facial for hydration (no peels or anything medical grade this is purely for relaxation) WEEK OF THE WEDDING • Manicure & pedicure • Have a relaxation massage at endota spa to help relax your body for a better sleep as anxiety will be high!

• Drink lots of water • Get your spray tan at endota spa • Use hydrating sheet masks. The SK-II Facial Treatment Mask is perfect!

• Don’t forget to eat but cut back on salty food to avoid bloating • It’s easy to get caught up in the madness, take a moment to enjoy this exciting time!

HAVE AN AFFAIR WITH

Autumn Weddings // FEATURE

The Jewellery Affair The Jewellery Affair is a local family business owned and managed by husband and wife team, Janne and David McKay. For over 25 years this dedicated duo has been bringing the world's most unique and exquisitely delicious jewellery designs to Newcastle, providing clients with a service that is second to none.

From concept to reality, their obsession for quality and attention to detail ensures a piece of jewellery that is both personal and priceless.

Diamond engagement rings, as well as wedding rings, are their speciality and are all manufactured using diamonds cut to sparkle and dazzle. They are highly experienced designers and are able to handcraft the ring of your dreams, creating a design that is yours and yours alone.

Did you know you can also have your jewellery remodelled? The experienced team can help design something made to order.

The team at Jewellery Affair know how important it is to keep your precious jewellery in pristine condition and recommend professional cleaning and checking of your

jewellery at least once a year (your Wedding Anniversary is a good way to remember this).

Your valuable pieces will be delicately cleaned to ensure the brilliance of your jewellery is maintained throughout the years.

Those who know Janne and David well will tell you that delighting their customers is their chief priority and this is why they have always offered custom designed and handcrafted pieces along with a full jewellery, watch and clock repair service. Visit the team at The Jewellery Affair today or check out the extensive range online at www.thejewelleryaffair.com.au

Retreat from the busy traffic of Beaumont Street and step into a world of Tranquility and Zen. For a simple touch-up, a brand new style, a skin booster facial or relaxing and invigorating body treatment that will leave you full of confidence, visit M Hair Spa today.

M Hair Spa

98 Tudor Street, Hamilton Open Wednesday to Saturday • Phone 0490 142 821, E info@mhairspa.com • www.mhairspa.com

The Jewellery Affair A Source of the Unusual...

Shop 12, The Junction Village Kenrick Street, The Junction PH 4969 4278 • www.jewelleryaffair.com.au www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 41

We have the perfect venue for you From Fort Scratchley’s stunning backdrop of Nobbys Beach to the soaring arches of the Museum’s Link Gallery and the grandeur of the Concert Hall at Newcastle City Hall, Newcastle Venues provide endless opportunity for the perfect wedding.

Small intimate weddings and large family occasions can easily be catered for with our fabulous range of room options, including the evocative Barracks, awe-inspiring Earthball Gallery and beautiful arched windowed Hunter Room.

Newcastle Venues have highly experienced on-site catering and decorator services with an intimate knowledge of our venues. Our Venue Services team will work with you every step of the way to help create a wedding of your dreams.

Our Venue Services team Our experienced and professional staff will work closely with you to ensure your day is memorable. Do not hesitate to contact us on (02) 4974 2166 for a tour of our rooms, to request a personalised quote or further information.

Booking your event Please contact our Venue Services team to discuss times, dates and any special requirements.

Phone (02) 4974 2166 Email newcastlevenues@ncc.nsw.gov.au www.newcastle.nsw.gov.au/newcastle-venues

Autumn Weddings // FEATURE

WEDDINGS

BY SCOTT WEBSTER

Michelin Star chef and Newcastle born and bred Scott Webster is now adding his unique culinary skills to weddings across the region.

Harking back to his early training at the Royal Sydney Golf Club, Scott and his teams at Carrington Place and Throsby Street Providore are now providing quality cuisine and catering for weddings and private functions at Merewether Golf Club.

Scott has worked in London at the Savoy Hotel and in Leysin, Switzerland at the Grand Hotel. Scott also worked at the Regent Hotel and the Boulevard Hotels in Sydney and has travelled and worked extensively throughout Europe, the US, Canada and Asia in the past 30 years.

In 2003 Scott was lured back to London where he opened his successful Osia restaurant. He made the decision to return to Australia three years later to allow his young family to be closer to their ageing grandparents. Carrington Place in harbour-front Newcastle was the immediate result of his return to his birthplace, much to the delight of food lovers in the Hunter region and further afield. In 2016, his Singapore Osia was awarded a Michelin Star.

Throsby Street Providore in Wickham is a European business concept catering to today’s more educated clientele, which he attributes to TV food programming and the art of the “celebrity chef.” It is a food emporium in the tradition of the world’s great cities offering items that were once exclusive to a fine restaurant.

“I love what I do – simple as that,” says Scott.

“Special events like weddings, parties and corporate events provide an opportunity to really delight people through great cuisine. No matter whether it’s a formal seated dinner or an elegant party overlooking the beautiful Merewether Golf Course great catering can really add something special to your day,” Scott said.

For more information about holding your wedding or other special celebration at Merewether Golf Course visit www.merewethergolf.com.au

EXCLUSIVE DIAMOND Now Available at Kadia Jewellers If a diamond is a girl’s best friend, then the name of that best friend would have to be Aurora. The Aurora Diamond that is.

A diamond so spectacular it’s got the jewellery world buzzing, the Aurora is like no other and it’s being sold exclusively in the Hunter by renowned Toronto jewellers Kadia Jewellery.

As any diamond aficionado or discerning bride-to-be would know, four key characteristics come into play when choosing a diamond. Cut, colour, clarity and carat. And when it comes to the Aurora, this is one diamond that is, literally, a cut above the rest.

While most round brilliant diamonds have 58 facets, the Aurora has 73 strategically-placed facets, which have been scientifically designed to maximise the return of light to reveal the diamond’s true beauty.

It is the first time a diamond has ever been cut this way, and Kadia Jewellery co-owner Kaylene Fitzpatrick said its brilliance was truly something you had to see to believe.

“When we first saw them we were kind of blown away, and I’ve been in this industry for nearly 30 years, so for me to be blown away is pretty amazing,” she said.

“They’ve double faceted the bottom of the diamond and it’s been certified as the brightest in the world - you get goose bumps when you see something that is just so beautiful, it’s exquisite.

“We actually have a light metre in our shop so you can

compare the Aurora to the other diamonds and just see the difference in its brilliance – changes in technology have just improved things so much.”

That technology, including three-dimensional beam-tracing software, has allowed the creators of the Aurora Diamond to produce a visibly more beautiful diamond with a greater “return of light”, which is measured according to its brilliance, fire, sparkle and light symmetry. The brilliance of a diamond refers to the intense white light that radiates from the precious gem, while its fire relates to the vivid flashes of colour you can see as the light bends inside the diamond.

The sparkle of the stone can be seen in the dramatic pinpoints of light that occur as a diamond moves, while the light symmetry is based on how evenly light is distributed from within. All Aurora Diamonds have a minimum total lightperformance grade of Ultimate 1 as certified by the world leaders in the area, Sarine Technologies.

They are also independently certified according to their cut, colour, clarity and carat by the Belgium-based International Gemological Institute (IGI), which is the largest independent gemological laboratory worldwide.

Kaylene said it was an honour to be the only jewellers in the Hunter and among only a few across the country to be able to offer the Aurora Diamond for sale to the public.

Already stocking some of the most stunning and unique jewellery in the region including highly sought-after, oneoff pieces from master craftsmen, Kaylene said the Aurora Diamond was the perfect addition to their range.

“We’re one of only eight independent jewellery stores in Australia to have our hands on the Aurora Diamond, and we’re extremely excited about it,” she said.

“We were lucky enough due to our reputation and our buying relationships to be offered the chance to sell this, and we’re so proud we’ve been able to obtain this for our clients.”

Perfect for that bride-to-be who is looking for something truly unique, Kadia Jewellery stocks a range of engagement rings made with the Aurora Diamond, as well as necklaces and earrings. With loose stones also on offer, Kaylene said customers can take advantage of Kadia’s reputation for giving new life to old jewellery by incorporating one of the Aurora Diamonds into a treasured setting of their own.

“We have an enormous service department catering to all your jewellery needs. We go that extra mile to help with your personal and extraordinary items,” she said.

“Our remakes are acclaimed, something we are immensely proud of, so while we’re selling the Aurora Diamond in ring sets, earrings and pendants, you could always buy one of the loose stones and use it in your own setting. They are all just so divine, why not come in and see it for yourself.”

Kadia Jewellery is a multi-award winning business, with stores located in Toronto and Warners Bay.

Weddings @ The Retreat Unique wedding venue with the location you have always imagined Spring outdoor weddings • Cosy Winter indoor weddings 4302 Nelson Bay Road, Anna Bay NSW 2316 E. bookings@theretreatportstephens.com.au P. (02) 4982 1244

www.theretreatportstephens.com.au www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 43

FEATURE // Autumn Weddings

HAVE FUN PLANNING YOUR WEDDING at Love on the Lawn WORDS MICHELLE MEEHAN - Features Writer

There will be fashions - of a different kind - on the field at Newcastle Jockey Club next month when Australia’s first outdoor wedding festival returns to the city.

“outdated” wedding expo concept allowed brides to “really connect with vendors and plan their day in a relaxed space.”

“I wanted to step away from the traditional boring expo.

When brides are shopping for their wedding day it’s really about the experience. This is the most fun you can have when planning a wedding,” she said.

Of course, it is the quality of the exhibitors who ensure the While usually filled with those decked out in the latest race happy couples can make the most of their outings, with Love day finery, the Broadmeadow venue will instead play host to on the Lawn featuring 100 wedding professionals showcasing a showcase of the most gorgeous wedding gowns and stylish every service you could possibly need, from celebrants, stylists suits as part of Love on the Lawn. and photographers to hairdressers, make-up artists and florists, A wedding event like no other, Love on the Lawn combines just to name a few. an outdoor festival atmosphere – complete with live music – Representatives from various venues will be on hand to with all the elements you would expect to find at a bridal expo. show just how they could set the scene for your big day, while Perfect for boho brides-to-be and their fiancés who are looking for wedding vendors with a difference, Love on the Lawn luxury hire car services will give you a glimpse of how you could arrive at your ceremony in style. provides a laid-back vibe and relaxed attitude that makes this A bridal event wouldn’t be truly complete without fabulous event the most fun you can have planning a wedding.

Unlike a convention centre expo, the outdoor setting allows fashions of course and Love on the Lawn certainly won’t disappoint in that department, with a host of models hitting the visitors to Love on the Lawn to take everything in without catwalk at 11.30am and 1.30pm to parade the latest in bridal worrying about getting crushed in the crowd. wear.

The wedding festival concept was created by former There’s also pop-up retail stalls, flower crown and bridal wedding planner Kim Alfeldi in 2013 and has proved incredibly workshops, expert advice, celebrity MCs, food tasting, prizes popular, with events now held in Sydney, the Hunter Valley and goodie bags. vineyards and Newcastle each year.

A champagne and wine bar will add a touch of luxury to Around 900 brides and their tribes flock to every Love the wedding frivolity, while gourmet food vans will help satisfy on the Lawn event, with more than 10,000 making their way the hunger you’re sure to work up after checking out all the through their gates during the past four years. exhibitors have to offer.

Kim said injecting a festival-like atmosphere into the 44 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

A VIP teepee can be reserved for the day close to the main stage, allowing brides and their friends to mull over their choices with a complimentary bottle of bubbles while listening to live music.

Grooms who’ve earned a few brownie points accompanying their brides-to-be to the event can also take some time out from the wedding madness in the Love on the Lawn “Man Cave.”

Created as a welcome antidote for grooms suffering from an overload of flowers and fashions, it offers everything from a beer bar, dart boards and pool table to sports coverage on the big-screen TV. “Men get dragged around kicking and screaming to these events,” Kim said.

“Here they can watch sport and drink a beer, but they still get brownie points for going.

“This is a really popular part of the festival. It’s a cool space where they can hang out and get away from flowers.

“The difference is that by providing this platform, people hang around longer and engage more with the vendors, which is important when making decisions.

“Brides want to get to know someone who is working on the biggest day of their life.”

Love on the Lawn will be held at Newcastle Jockey Club from 10am to 3pm on Sunday, April 2.

For more information or to purchase your ticket visit www.loveonthelawn.com.au

The most fun you can have planning your wedding!

SUNDAY APRIL 2 | 10AM - 3PM NEWCASTLE JOCKEY CLUB HUNTER VALLEY | SEPTEMBER 17

Tickets on sale now at www.loveonthelawn.com.au

FEATURE // Autumn Weddings

LOVE IN THE VINES NOT JUST ANOTHER WEDDING EXPO! Enjoy sparkling and canapés on arrival, goodie bags, prizes and giveaways, free wedding workshops, fashion parades, picnic amongst the vines, local wine and produce, and most importantly you’ll come face-to-face with a huge array of talented wedding suppliers and be immersed in the ultimate wedding inspiration!

For further wedding ideas and tips why not take in a few workshops and seminars scheduled throughout the day? You’ll be dreaming of your walk down the aisle while watching the fashion parades showcasing stunning gowns and suits and fabulous accessories.

Don't forget to stop by the for a complimentary mini beauty treatment and meet the talented hair and makeup artists who are ready to make you your most beautiful for your big day. When it's time for a break, sit back and relax with some lunch and a bottle of famous Hunter Valley wine, immerse yourself in stunning vineyards and rolling hills and be entertained by live musicians all day long!

If you’re planning a wedding in the Hunter Region or know anyone who is, you’ll want to WIN tickets to the HOTTEST WEDDING EVENT IN THE HUNTER and thanks to Hunter Valley Wedding Planner Magazine, we have 15 x

double passes to Love in the Vines Wedding Festival to give to 15 lucky readers!

Each double pass is worth $50 (based on gate prices) and to win all you need to do is visit the giveaways page at www.intouchmagazine.com.au and tell us why you’d like to attend this fabulous event! It’s that simple. Entries close April 15th – don’t miss out!

WHAT Love in the Vines Wedding Festival WHERE Lindeman’s Estate Pokolbin, in the heart of the Hunter Valley vineyards WHEN Sunday 30th April 10.30am-4pm TICKETS Visit www.loveinthevines.com.au This event is proudly brought to you by Hunter Valley Wedding Planner Magazine – in newsagents Australia wide!

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Autumn Weddings // FEATURE

BLOOMING BUSINESS

at Newcastle Flower Markets

WORDS MICHELLE MEEHAN - Features Writer

The seed of an idea germinated during a visit to a local produce market will finally come into bloom this month with the launch of the Newcastle Flower Markets.

Initially operating as a trade-only market two days each week, the venture will organically grow over time to include a third day of operation and include a designated time during which it will also be open to the public.

Set to launch at the end of March, the Newcastle Flower Markets will fill a significant gap in the local industry according to their founder, Newcastle event stylist Jessica EckfordAguilera, with florists and stylists currently having to travel to the Sydney Flower Market to source products.

“It’s something that I’ve been working on for quite some time and we desperately need it in Newcastle,” she said.

“Obviously being in the industry myself for the last 15 years, I know it’s very stressful for florists to have to travel down to

Sydney, get there at 3am, line up and find a park to buy stock.

By the time you finish, come back and clean flowers, it’s a whole day out of your week. Newcastle is such growing city, why shouldn’t we have our own markets here?”

Aside from allowing florists from Newcastle and the Hunter to access fresh and cut flowers far closer to home, Jessica believes it could also bring more business to the city by attracting buyers from the central west and mid north coast who would traditionally travel to the Sydney market.

“If it eliminates travel it could bring more business into Newcastle from all the Tamworth and Armidale people who go to Sydney, all the Taree, Port Macquarie businesses - why can’t we bring them here?

“And I think the great thing is that it’s not just florists anymore that require flowers, it is cake designers, stylists, boutique owners and other businesses like that as well. It was definitely something that was needed.”

The Newcastle Flower Markets will be held at Sandgate, operating alongside the Newcastle City Fruit and Vegetable market on Tuesday and Thursday from 5am to 9.30am.

Jessica said they expected to have around eight growers and one large wholesaler on board when the markets are launched, with a plan to expand their numbers and the variety on offer to ensure they truly are a viable alternative to attending the Sydney markets.

“Florists are popping up everywhere and speaking with these florists, 90 per cent of their trade is weddings and weddings are getting bigger, more elaborate and florals are a huge part of that. It’s vital for us to be able to have the quality and variety there for them to be able to execute these kinds of events here and in the Hunter Valley,” she said.

When they eventually expand into Fridays, they will also open between 9.30am and 12.30pm to give the general public a chance to purchase fresh flowers and fresh produce.

Creating a harmonious working relationship between the new market and the existing one was an essential element of the arrangement for Jessica, who was inspired to create the business in part by the Sandgate fruit and vegetable merchants.

“Working alongside the Newcastle City fruit and vegetable market in Sandgate, our aim is to build a strong community market where we all support each other. I have a real passion for growers and how hard they work,” she said.

“How it all started was that I was creating a big event in Sydney and I actually went to the markets to get some fruit and vegetables for our models for the runway. I was chatting to one of the farmers there about fruit and vegetables who was complaining about being squashed out by the big players.'

“I walked out that day and just went ‘That is it, I am going to help these guys.’ So part of the reason I created the flower markets collaborating with these boys was to put them back on the map and get people buying those fruit and vegetables at that public market on the Friday as well as their florals.

“I think this will be such a positive thing for Newcastle as a whole and will create a lot more than just happy florists.”

For more information about the Newcastle Flower Markets, check out www.newcastleflowermarkets.com.au or follow @newcastleflowermarkets on Facebook and Instagram.

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www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 47

FEATURE // Autumn Weddings

Brilliant Bridesmaids Gifts

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Say thank you to your bridesmaids with our selection of the perfect presents. Here's a range of lovely gifts your bridesmaids can wear on the day and for years afterward, like matching jewellery, purses and makeup. Whatever your colour theme, you’re sure to find the perfect gifts to make your girls feel special too on your big day.

SHOP LOCAL - all product available from Westfield Kotara.

B

A TYPO - Stuff It Gift Bag - Small - Black This Is Your Present – from $3.99. B Tempo Hinged Bangle $69.95 from Mimco (Available in White, Rose Gold, Yellow Gold, Pink, Alabaster, and Silver). C Alphabet Charm from Oroton $29.95. D OPI Lacquer Berlin There Done That 15ml available from Price Attack $19.95. E Colette by Colette Hayman - Purse Gift Sets $24.99 each.

C E D

Pokolbin Estate Marquee Weddings

Historic….

Set in the heart of Hunter Valley Wine Country, Pokolbin Estate is the perfect location for your perfect day.

If your vision is one of a glittering marquee amongst the grapevines, stunning sunsets, premium awardwinning wines and your wedding planned and styled by the organisers of Australian Bridal Fashion Week, then make your vision a reality at Pokolbin Estate.

Elegant….

For more information contact Pokolbin Estate or Angelic Events today.

298 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin NSW 2320 | Weddings & Events Managed by Angelic Events P 1300 760 460 | enquiries@angelicevents.com.au | www.angelicevents.com.au 48 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Picturesque….