Bridal nov 2013

BRIDE GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS

& GROOM Issue 12. Spring/Summer 2013. $4.95

Valley brides Our perfect day

Hair trends You are invited

Creative bride delights

Guest list and seating advice

Decorating ideas Surprise!

We just got married

Modern glamour

11-PAGE FASHION SPECIAL GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013

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Suits that make you look and feel your best Glenn at Mensland Shepparton takes the utmost pride in his position as suit hire manager. “the most rewarding aspect of my job is knowing I have helped a couple to look and feel their best on their special day,” Glenn says.

Photography by Simon Greig from “the Occasion Studios”

O’Keeffe Mensland made organising the men’s suits for our wedding day such an easy, pleasurable experience. Glenn took care of everything for us; we did not have to worry about a thing!

We were assisted with everything from picking the outfit, to ordering, and collecting them on the day, and especially with all the questions we had along the way. O’Keeffe Mensland took all the stress out of planning the suits and accessories; we would recommend them to everyone planning their wedding.

We would both like take this opportunity to thank Mensland for their outstanding, professional service and for finding the perfect suit with no hassle; the men looked absolutely fantastic on the day.

– Nathan and Jessica Newman

O’Keeffe

ShePPartOn

Glenn Busk 2

GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013

183 Maude Street, Shepparton. Ph: 5821 3685 email: askglenn@bigpond.com find us on facebook “Mensland Shepparton”

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GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013

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GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013

Adventurous, innovative, flexible.

Award winning, stylish, unforgettable.

Echuca-Moama’s premier entertainment venue Moama Bowling Club boasts outstanding function facilities suitable for small and large groups, private or public functions. Your event will take advantage of state of the art equipment including the latest Bose technology and sound engineering.

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The Venue can cater for 420 guests theatre style, 250 guests banquet and 450 cocktail.

The Pavilion can accommodate up to 450 guests cocktail style (subject to availability).

Contact our dedicated Functions Coordinator today on 1800 806 777 to organise every aspect of your event.

6 Shaw St., Moama NSW 2731. Free shuttle service. Call Customer Service.

FreeCall 1800 806 777 www.moamabowlingclub.com.au ABN 58001046939

GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013

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welcome

From the moment an engagement is announced, the questions start.

When is the big day? Who is in the bridal party? How many guests are you inviting? Where are you getting married?

All of a sudden it may feel like there is so much to do and your groom-to-be may wonder what he has got himself into.

Here is my tip: stay organised — but don’t let your wedding preparations consume every minute of what was once carefree time as a pre-engaged couple.

Cover: Newlyweds Sarah Luelf and Taylor Lewis, March 23, 2012.

Photography: Ginger & Mint Photography.

Story page 14.

Editor Corinna Boldiston 5820 3183 corinna.boldiston@sheppnews.com.au Writers Jenna Bishop Laura Griffin Kerri Thomson Graphic designer Teresa Lagozzino Photographers Shepparton News photography team Guest photographer Leanne Whitely Digital editors Lance Simpson Lisa Bogdan Sales manager Jamie Gilbert 5820 3184 jamie.gilbert@sheppnews.com.au Fashion pictorial co-ordinator Kerri Thomson Published by Shepparton News PO Box 204, Shepparton, Victoria 3632 (03) 5820 3183 magazines@sheppnews.com.au

BRIDE GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS

& GROOM

Missed last issue?

Visit www.sheppnews. com.au and look for the Bride & Groom link.

Issue 11. Autumn/Winter 2013. $4.95

Real weddings

Flattering dresses

inspiration for formal and informal occasions

How to choose the perfect gown for your shape

Jewellery themes

Stay organised

Traditional, vintage and modern ideas

Wedding and budget planners

Bridal beauty Tips for stress-free radiance

Plus

You’ll both enjoy the ride more with a healthy balance between wedding planning and simply relaxing and enjoying each other’s company — just as you always had before the marriage proposal.

Speaking of rides — we discover how bride Kendal Arnel stunned her guests with a fly-in entrance to her wedding ceremony in a R44 helicopter (page 11).

We also share how Bridie Mellino and Nathan Weis surprised family and friends who believed they were at a birthday and return-to-good health party (page 18).

Guests at another wedding were entranced by

C

Jaimi Di Petta and Troy King the valleys’ brides

GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2012

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From wow-factor to intimate weddings, carefully planned and relaxed go-with-the flow occasions, our valleys’ bride and grooms show every wedding has individual personality — but can be equally special.

Our team hopes this issue offers you plenty of inspiration for your planning.

We’d love to see your own unique outcome. To submit your wedding for consideration in future issues of Bride & Groom visit www.mmg.com. au/bride-and-groom or email me at corinna. boldiston@sheppnews.com.au – Corinna Boldiston Editor

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Making a grand entrance 11 Bride’s efforts add delightful details 14 Laura Pettifer and Kane Howard 16 the valleys’ brides

Wedding a surprise for the guests Relaxed affair weaves music into the occasion Invitations can help set the scene Putting fabulous into fake Katheryn Baker and Johny Ismail the valleys’ brides

Will you marry me?

— Mirror reflects message of the heart — Spontaneous proposal two years in the making Naomi Harrington and Benjamin Dennis the valleys’ brides

18 34 36 38 40

42 44 46

Kitchen tea taken to a higher level 48 Groom’s responsibilities 50 Valleys’ venues: Juggling expectations 52 Everyone please be seated 54 Gift giving made easy 57 Vows mean more with the personal touch 58

21-31

bridal fashion

Plan to be beautiful Perfect hair adds the finishing touch Stephanie Smith and Bradley Boyle the valleys’ brides

Tropical paradise an idyllic destination Destination close to home Married twice thanks to Elvis Wedding planner Budget planner Directory

bonus 12-page lift-out magazine from Blizzards Fine Jewellers. | NOVEMBER 2013

Modern glamour

Ceremony pays tribute to groom’s faith 59 Table centrepiece ideas 60

With this ring...

Dream designs GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM 14 pAGES Of BRiDAL fAShiON

Another vintage wedding warmed our hearts as family and friends shared jobs and talents to create a fun, back-to-basics celebration (page 34). From roadside flowers to dancing the Pride of Erin around the groom’s grandparents’ backyard tree, we are sure you’ll also love Erin Lancaster and Lachlan Heycox’s story.

contents

• Vows • Music • Bridesmaids’ duties

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our cover bride Sarah Luelf’s creative talent and attention to detail at her vintage-inspired wedding (page 14).

63 64 66 68 70 71 72 73 74

The valleys’ brides

Jaimi Di Petta and Troy King March 16, 2013 GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013

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The valleys’ brides

Jaimi Di Petta and Troy King March 16, 2013 Bride’s parents: James and Brenda Di Petta Groom’s parents: Ashleigh and Leonie King Service: St Mary’s Catholic Church, Echuca Reception: Radcliffe’s, Echuca Honeymoon: Queensland Photographer: Lisa Nardella Photography Bride’s dress: Sophie Novak, Shepparton Bridesmaids’ dresses: Wedding Boutique, Shepparton Suits: Matt O’Keeffe Mensland, Shepparton Flowers: Pure Design, Kyabram Cake: The Cake-Up Artist, Kyabram Hair: Sublime Mobile Hair and Beauty, Echuca Make-up: Sublime Mobile Hair and Beauty, Echuca Invitations: Dream Day Invitations

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GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013

New styles and colours instore now

“

It was our daughter Maddison’s second birthday so the reception had a birthday party theme, colourful photo boards, a lolly bar, party bags for the little guests, lots of dancing and we cut the cake to the tune of Happy Birthday.

Ongoing

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“

The stunning Mr K Ongoing Bridesmaids, Debutantes and Brides range is now available at Shop 221.

“

“

Celebrating with our loved ones was very special and sitting back during dinner seeing a room full of happy people, relaxing and enjoying themselves was a pretty amazing feeling.

Sharing the day with our little princess was pretty special too.

Looking back on the photos, we will have some wonderful memories and moments to share with her as she grows older.

From sizes 6-26 and available in a large range of colours, there is bound to be a style to suit any bridesmaids, debutante or bride.

shop 221 Fashion for all ages. Womens sizes 8-24 221 Maude St, Shepparton. Ph: (03) 5821 2161 GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013

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GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013

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Wedding Boutique

grand entrance

making a

GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013 11

Story: Jenna Bishop Photography: Crimson Tide

Kendal Arnel didn’t walk up the aisle for her February wedding — she flew up it.

Kendal and husband Ashley Coogan wanted to create a unique point of difference for their wedding — and decided to supersize their mode of transportation to something a little unexpected: a helicopter.

Paradise Gardens,” Kendal said.

After seeing a helicopter used in another wedding, Kendal and Ashley decided it would be the perfect way to make their wedding instantly memorable.

The sunny, 26-degree-day was perfect weather, not only for the flight but also the wedding.

“We decided we wanted to do something a little bit different and out there,” Kendal said.

Kendal said the helicopter was a surprise for the guests — apart from the couple’s immediate family, no-one knew the wedding would feature travel by helicopter.

The couple hired a R44 helicopter from Melbourne as their wedding vehicle — although due to safety regulations, they weren’t allowed to hang any ‘Just Married’ paraphernalia from the helicopter.

“The guests all came running out from the gardens to see what was happening,” she said.

They married at Moama’s Paradise Gardens on February 2, followed by a reception at Morrisons Winery.

Kendal and her father Peter were picked up by the helicopter in Moama, and followed a scenic flight path along the river to the ceremony.

“It was amazing because we followed the river all the way down to

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Following the ceremony, Kendal and Ashley flew to their Moama vineyard for photos, and then the helicopter ferried them to join friends and family at Morrisons Winery.

GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013

“They thought the helicopter was practising for the Southern 80 event, which was on the same weekend.”

Kendal said it took quite a bit of effort to fit the whole wedding dress in the small four-seater helicopter, but with some creative arranging she managed to squeeze it in.

It was Kendal’s second trip in a helicopter — she had flown in one just weeks earlier on a pre-wedding holiday in Hawaii with her

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mother — but it was groom Ashley’s first helicopter flight.

Kendal said the helicopter gave her a unique view on arrival at the wedding and the perfect opportunity to see the looks of surprise on guests’ faces.

It wasn’t just the unique wedding transport which made Kendal and Ashley’s day special.

Kendal said some of the memorable moments at her wedding included having her two brothers and Ashley’s brother in the wedding party, and dancing to the infamous Gangnam Style

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Shop 14–15, 276–278 Maude St, Shepparton. P: 5831 4395 – The Beauty Parlour *Conditions apply. Booking fee applies GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013 13

Bride’s efforts add

delightful details Elegant handmade touches helped to create a magical rustic garden setting for Sarah Luelf’s wedding to Taylor Lewis on March 23, 2012.

When it came to wedding decorations for the ceremony and reception, there was never any doubt that creative and artistic bride-to-be Sarah would put her own stamp on the decorations.

of love and featured individually hand-stamped lettering.

“I love doing that kind of thing,” she said.

In total, the materials for the invitations cost just $300, enabling Sarah to spend money on other aspects of the wedding.

With help from various family members, Sarah created almost all of the special decorative touches, including signs, invitations, cushions, table runners, table flowers, bonbonniere and cones of rose petals.

Sarah sewed 15 different cushion covers for seats at the ceremony, vintage-style bunting for the bridal table and on the cake, and patchwork doily table runners for the antique wooden tables at the ceremony.

“I wanted to spend money on the things that mattered to me, like the flowers,” she said.

The ceremony at Moama’s Paradise Gardens featured vintage furniture and decorative items that Sarah had sourced.

The vintage-styled blackboard welcoming guests to the ceremony was also a result of Sarah’s hard work.

A two-year engagement gave Sarah the perfect opportunity to design, source and create her projects, inspired by plenty of internet research, wedding blogs and magazines.

“My sister-in-law had this old frame, the decorative bits were all falling off and it was this terrible gold colour. We sanded it back and painted it white,” she said.

The decorations took Sarah a couple of months in total to perfect, but for Sarah it was time well-spent with a beautiful end result.

Taylor, a carpenter, also helped out by putting together the vintage blackboard and a vintage sign pointing to the ceremony, and added the finishing touches to the ceremony’s set-up.

Sarah’s calico, linen and paper invitations were a three-day labour

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Sarah designed, printed and cut the 45 invitations, and sewed them together with help from her mother.

GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013

Story: Jenna Bishop Photography: Ginger & Mint Photography and Chrisp Pictures

Another special handmade touch for the wedding was Sarah’s vintage lace white clutch.

“My mum made my clutch out of her old wedding dress,” she said.

A last-minute addition to the wedding was fans hand-made by Sarah, Taylor’s mother and Taylor’s sister, featuring a photo of the couple, a note from them and ceremony information.

Candlelit glass jars hung from the vines on the ceiling of Radcliffe’s Conservatory Garden for a twilight garden atmosphere for the Echuca reception.

The reception tables each featured a collection of glass jar vases with flowers from Sarah’s mother’s garden, all arranged by Sarah, her sister and her mother.

“My sister and I did all the flowers for the tables the day before the wedding,” Sarah said.

Mini jars of preserves tied with hand-stamped name labels served as place cards on the tables, while Sarah’s bunting decorated the bridal table and cake.

Sarah also found inspiration on craft mecca website Etsy, with her

“Mrs Lewis” wedding dress hanger, custom-made cake toppers, photobooth props and Scrabble-letter initialled cufflinks all ordered from the site.

Scrabble-letter signs were also dotted around the wedding — at the cake, wishing well and the ceremony tables.

Sarah said her guests’ appreciation of all the little details made the effort worth it, especially when people commented on the details and her cousins went around photographing her creations.

“That made it special — that people noticed all the little elements,” she said.

Preparation and organisation was the key for the day running smoothly and Sarah said having running sheets specific to what each person was responsible for helped keep things in order.

The wedding day has a propensity to become incredibly stressful for couples, but Sarah said having done a lot of the preparation herself before the wedding meant she could relax and enjoy the day.

“You have to let some things go — as long as the main things are right,” she said. n

GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013 15

The valleys’ brides

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GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013

Laura Pettifer and Kane Howard April 13, 2013

“

Kane and I had our ceremony and reception at the same venue. That way, our guests didn’t have to worry about transport, and could relax on the veranda of the Olivehouse listening to the band, enjoying drinks and finger food while we had our photos taken.

“

“

We had a photo booth at the wedding, and for the bonbonniere we gave the girls a photo frame and the boys a stubby holder. The photo frame had details of our wedding and we asked guests to put their favourite photo booth photo in it.

“

Bride’s parents: Ross and Marion Pettifer Groom’s parents: Jeff Howard and Meredith Warren Service: Olivehouse Restaurant, Kialla West Reception: Olivehouse Restaurant, Kialla West Honeymoon: Fiji Photographer: Polly Wright Photography, Kyabram Bride’s dress: Fairytales Bridal Boutique, Moonee Ponds Bridesmaids’ dresses: Swish, South Yarra Suits: Graham Johnston Menswear, Kyabram Flowers: Lynn’s Florist, Echuca Cake: Liz Vandenakker, a friend of the bride Make-up: Infinity Beauty Spa, Kyabram Invitations: Ultimate Choice Design and Printing, Shepparton

GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013 17

Story: Laura GrifďŹ n Photography: Annie Melino and Tim Nankivell

Wedding a surprise for the guests

Some of the best ideas come to Bridie Mellino in the shower, and the idea to have a surprise wedding was no exception.

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GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013

Let us create your magic moments

To say Bridie and then fiancé Nathan Weis had a bit on their plate was an understatement. They were expecting their first child when Nathan was diagnosed with bowel cancer. Fortunately doctors found the aggressive cancer early and on July 13, 2012 successfully removed the infected tissue.

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Nathan proposed less than a month later.

“It was simple but very romantic,” Bridie said.

The Mooroopna couple met with a wedding planner who told them to start with a guest list. Bridie has a big family, so the list quickly climbed to about 250 people. Bridie and Nathan started researching venues that could accommodate the burgeoning guest list without blowing the budget.

“It was really stressing us out,” Bridie said.

One day, she was having a shower and thinking about ways to limit the guest list without offending people when the idea struck — they could have a secret wedding with their immediate families and meet friends and extended family after.

Nathan and the couple’s parents liked the idea.

Bridie and Nathan wanted to get married as soon as possible.

They planned their intimate ceremony of 22 people — including their then eight-month-old son Oscar as page boy — and a bigger reception to be held three months later. They said this was only possible to thanks to their “amazing” suppliers including Shepparton’s Wedding Boutique, Shepparton’s Man To Man, Murchison’s Avonlea Flowers and Shepparton’s Get Caked.

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Ph: (03) 5822 4977 Fax: (03) 5831 1017 Mob: 0417 320 759 Email: info@bridalideasvictoria.com.au Web: www.bridalideasvictoria.com.au

The couple also called in favours from Nathan’s aunt Amanda Pattison, who is a hairdresser at Shepparton’s Sheer Symmetry, and school friend Karli McLean, who is a make-up artist with Klara Cosmetics.

Bridie’s sister and maid of honour Annie edited the wedding photographs, which were taken by her friend Tim Nankivell.

A chance conversation led to a perfect ceremony venue. Bridie’s father Rudy was doing repairs at Lawrie and Carol Merritt ’s Toolamba property where they had re-built a historic cottage and created a beautiful garden. Rudy mentioned his daughter was getting married in a few weeks and Lawrie said they were welcome to hold the July 13 ceremony there.

Bridie and Nathan loved the venue: “It is a really nice spot with native flowers and it’s a bit different. It suited our wedding,” Nathan said.

The couple was thankful Nathan’s former boss Tony Bevilacqua of Bicaro’s Restaurant in Shepparton let them book the restaurant.

About 90 friends and family members were at the restaurant for what they had been told was a dinner to celebrate Nathan’s birthday — July 23 — and him being one year cancer-free.

Bridie’s cousin Paul Brown arrived just as the wedding party did, and the couple asked him to announce they had been married to the surprised crowd.

Have a relaxing wedding morning Hair Central offer the entire hair, tanning and nail needs in the centre of town. Why not have breakfast in Fryers St then walk into Hair Central and enjoy some complimentary champagne as our trusted professional team pampers you and your bridesmaids for a perfect wedding day.

“The most memorable part of our day for me was seeing the reaction on everyone’s face when we arrived at Bicaro’s and we were dressed in our wedding outfits,” Nathan said.

“People were in shock, some said they couldn’t believe it,” Bridie said. n

P: 5831 4244 www.haircentral.net.au

89 Fryers St, Shepparton.

GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013 19

The Perfect Location If you truly want to spoil yourself on your wedding day, the White House Echuca is a stunning, brand new, 4 bedroom home, centrally located in Echuca.

Testimonial

ctional with fun cision e m o h l autifu est de Just a be living, the hard h room to ic n h la w p s n a e p w o to be, e d ri b From two to ten guests, four bedrooms – upstairs has two bedrooms e as th ly! uca, ll so love ntral Ech choose a tly located in Ce g precinct – one with a king sized bed and the second has a queen sized bed n Convenie lk to the shoppin ca.

- downstairs has two bedrooms – one with a king sized bed and the a u a shor t w toric Por t of Ech p ar tist did u his e second has two king single beds. Four bathrooms, fully equipped kitchen, e k a th m d n d a se call, sser an re ke a hou gs. d a ir a m h r to private gas heated pool, two outdoor entertaining areas, reverse cycle g Ou in in d c n in u conv surro not need ted in luxurious rops & props cooling/heating, 6 flat screen TVs, d le all comp utstanding back tographs. o all with Austar and with plenty of off-street parking. ho So many mor y making p pter as e a for our m star t our new ch • Perfect location for photos • Opposite Aquatic Reserve • Prime wedding location to t c e rf .

Pe and wife husband u d Thank yo ara Lloy and Tam n o s – Br y

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GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013

For all enquiries: Echuca Getaways – 03 5482 5445 www.echucagetaways.com.au/whiteechuca

Modern glamour

Photography by Leanne Whitely Photography t details page | NOVEMBER GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOMOutfi 2013 24 21

Dress: Michele’s Bridal and Formal Wear Jewellery: Blizzards Fine Jewellers Photography by Leanne Whitely Photography 22

GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013

Dress: Wedding Boutique Hair piece and jewellery: Blizzards Fine Jewellers

Photography by Leanne Whitely Photography Photography by Leanne Whitely Photography

GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013 23

Dress: Wedding Boutique Shoes: Michele’s Bridal and Formal Wear Jewellery: Blizzards Fine Jewellers Ring: model’s own

Photography by Leanne Whitely Photography 24

GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013

Dress: Wedding Boutique Jewellery: Blizzards Fine Jewellers Flowers: The Flower and Function Studio Photography by Leanne Whitely Photography

GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013 25

Dress and veil: Michele’s Bridal and Formal Wear Hair piece and jewellery: Blizzards Fine Jewellers Flowers: The Flower and Function Studio

Photography by Leanne Whitely Photography 26

GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013

Photography by Leanne Whitely Photography

Photography by Leanne Whitely Photography

GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013 27

Dress: Michele’s Bridal and Formal Wear Hair piece and jewellery: Michele’s Bridal and Formal Wear

Photography by Leanne Whitely Photography 28

GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013

Dress and veil: Michele’s Bridal and Formal Wear Hair piece and jewellery: Blizzards Fine Jewellers Ring: model’s own Photography by Leanne Whitely Photography

GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013 29

Dresses: Wedding Boutique Jewellery: Blizzards Fine Jewellers Ring: model’s own Shoes: Michele’s Bridal and Formal Wear Photography by Lisa Nardella Photography 30

GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013

Photography by Leanne Whitely Photography

Dresses: Wedding Boutique Jewellery: Blizzards Fine Jewellers Hair pieces (photo above left): Michele’s Bridal and Formal Wear (left) and Wedding Boutique (right)

Location: The Pavilion, Moama Bowling Club. Phone 1800 806 777.

Hair and make-up: Gloss Hair and Beauty Boutique, Shepparton. Phone 5831 1377.

Photography: Leanne Whitely Photography, Echuca-Moama. Phone 0408 226 771.

Pictorial co-ordinator: Kerri Thomson.

Models: Sisters Ashley and Jourdy Oliver.

Supplier contacts: Michele’s Bridal and Formal Wear, Shepparton. Phone 5831 2288.

Wedding Boutique, Shepparton. Phone 5858 5469.

Blizzards Fine Jewellers, Shepparton. Phone 5831 4677.

Flower and Function Studio, Numurkah. Phone 0435 701 203.

GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013 31

100+ Wedding gowns 80+ Bridesmaid dresses with up to 60 colours 70+ Bridal shoe styles Bridal accessories Alterations

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GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013

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GOULBURN AND MURRAY BRIDE & GROOM weddings | parties | deb balls | fundraisers | corporate events VALLEYS | product launches

| NOVEMBER 2013 33

Relaxed affair weaves music into the occasion

Erin Lancaster and Lachlan Heycox’s wedding was a joyous, back-to-basics celebration that brought together their passions for family, friends and music.

“We didn’t have much money but we had a lot of amazing friends and family who all used their passions to create the day,” Erin, who grew up in Picola, said.

“We hired our photographer Liz Arcus and a cook because selfcatering would have been too stressful — and family and friends pitched in to help out with everything else.”

The pair met each other at a youth camp in Year 10 and nurtured a long-distance relationship until marrying as university students on March 2, aged 21.

Henty had special significance to them as a wedding destination because Lachlan’s grandparents Warren and Elaine Heycox own Henty Central Bed and Breakfast.

“We thought people could stay there and it made it so much more fun,” Erin said.

The couple married in an Anglican church and kept the parts of the Christian service that resonated with them but re-wrote other parts.

The ceremony also had an excerpt from Anne of Green Gables — Erin’s favourite childhood book.

They also added a lot of music, including a song Erin’s brother Austin Lancaster wrote and sang for them and Lachlan’s dad Gavin Heycox and uncle Ron Rutter performed.

Central Bed and Breakfast to the sound of a New Orleans-style brass and wind band made up of their friends.

After lunch, the wedding party and guests danced on the grass outside, even joining in the Pride of Erin around the backyard tree.

Maid of honour Jo Rigbye created the bridal party’s garlands and did Erin’s make-up.

“We did our own hair so kept it simple for the bridesmaids with a side plait and mine with a vintage-style tuck under,” Erin said.

Erin’s mum Linden, her aunts and nanna Dianne Smith made the bridal bouquet from flowers picked from Erin’s parents’ garden at Picola and some billy buttons picked from the roadside. The bridesmaids had some wheat from her father Cameron’s paddock in their bouquets.

The bride wore a tea-length white lace dress with a yellow sash. The bridesmaids individually sourced contrasting yellow dresses.

The bridal party and wedding guests walked from the church to Henty

She said setting up a Facebook page for the bridal party was a great

34

GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013

“We made white sashes so there was a matching element to bring it all together,” Erin said of the party’s vintage look.

Story: Laura Griffin Photography: Liz Arcus Photography

It was a really inspiring wedding to many people of how to have exactly what you want, be unique and bring it back to grassroots. It was fun, it was different and it was great.

“

“

— Photographer Liz Arcus

way of sharing pictures and websites and co-ordinating things.

Lachlan’s sister Kendall Heycox made the cake, which was inspired by pictures of cakes the couple liked.

Erin and Lachlan set the event’s personal tone by making invitations that included a CD for guests to listen to as they drove to Henty.

Music is an important part of the couple’s lives — Erin plays violin and sings and Lachlan is a self-taught guitarist and they do lots of music workshops and play in bands together.

Erin said lots of laughter, tears of joy and “saying those life changing vows” were treasured moments of their wedding day along with “All the music, all the people, all the joy.” n GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013 35

Invitations

can help set the scene Whether they are fancy, elegant, funky or simple, your wedding invitations will create the first impression of your wedding and give guests an important insight into the day.

36

Wedding stationery designer and Ultimate Choice Design and Printing owner Annie Hicks said one of the most important considerations when choosing wedding stationery was to make sure it reflected your wedding and the personalities involved.

Annie said cartoon invitations which reflected something from the couple’s life — for example, a truck, footy, a farm, by the riverside or beach — were also perfect for quirky, simple or more casual weddings.

Annie said some of the memorable and more special invitations were the ones that reflected the couple’s personalities.

She said rustic-style invitations were an enduring choice, but modern invitations were also trending towards simplicity.

One couple chose to feature different photographs from moments in their relationship, by using a series of photos in a mini book bound by a ribbon.

“Vintage lace gives a soft, old-world feel and the simplicity of a single diamante will accent your invitation and add a touch of elegance,” she said.

Each page featured different photos as well as information for the wedding, with one page an invite; another had ceremony and reception information and information about the couple.

Another trend is 1920s glam and art deco, thanks to the recent release of the film The Great Gatsby.

One couple’s invite also featured a carefully placed piece of string which tied itself in a knot when the invite was opened.

Annie said Gatsby-inspired colour palettes, pebble papers, satin ribbons, diamantes, flowers and feathers were popular design choices.

Annie said invitation design could also reflect a unique wedding, such as a themed wedding, destination wedding or outdoor wedding.

“Pretty pinks and pastels with edgy prints are a popular choice for a beautiful garden wedding, and the perfect touch for spring,” she said.

One couple designed the invitations around a destination wedding — each invitation was designed as a boarding pass wrapped up in a brown card travel wallet and tied with twine and a swing tag similar to a luggage tag.

For rustic weddings, Annie said relaxed invitations with hessian bunting, different textures and playful fonts were ideal.

GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013

“Don’t be too hung up about everything matching if you are intending to have a rustic French vintage theme,” she said. n

Story: Jenna Bishop Invitations and photos supplied by Ultimate Choice Design and Printing

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Artificial flowers are blossoming in popularity thanks to their lifelike quality.

The advance of artificial flowers from cheap, fantastic plastic to beautiful, silky blooms with a real touch, feel and appearance is courting brides.

Flower and Function Studio Numurkah florist Tara McRae said today’s artificial flowers made it difficult to tell the difference from real flowers.

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GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013

Traditionally, brides marry in their home town, but a desire for distant wedding destinations has also contributed to the trend to artificial flowers.

The advantages are enticing; you can receive and see your bouquets well before your big day — one less stress to worry about.

Tara finds brides want to be organised and artificial flowers can make life a lot easier for the bride as “they can just be packed and taken with them”.

Some brides want an out-of-season flower or a specific colour and sourcing an artificial option can be the solution.

Artificial flowers won’t wilt and you can even personalise their fragrance by spraying with your favourite perfume.

Tara suggests combining a wedding floral design with fresh and artificial flowers by “adding some fresh greenery such as blue gum”.

For the budget ledger, Tara said “If you are going for the real-touch style, the cost is about the same as fresh flowers”.

Story: Kerri Thomson Photographer: Julie Mercer

Fresh pink carnations, fresh white roses, artificial pink lisianthus and fresh mini blue gum.

Artificial blue gerberas, deep Cadbury ranunculus, white roses, baby breath and artificial green rose leaves with the stems covered with diamante wrap.

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GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013 39

The valleys’ brides

Katheryn Baker and Johny Ismail January 26, 2013 Bride’s parents: Karen and Russel Baker Groom’s parents: Emin (dec) and Stella Ismail Service: Emerald Bank Gardens, Shepparton Reception: Emerald Bank Wool Shed, Shepparton Honeymoon: Cook Islands Photographer: Bee Sparkled Photography, Kyabram Bride’s dress: Brides and Maids, Shepparton Bridesmaids’ dresses: Brides and Maids, Shepparton Suits: Talisman, Mooroopna Flowers: Flower and Function Studio, Numurkah Cake: Kylie Botterill Cakes, Nathalia Hair: Tonnik for Hair, Shepparton Make-up: Divine Beauty, Kialla Invitations: Ultimate Choice Design and Printing, Shepparton

40

GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013

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My most memorable part of the day would have to be walking down the aisle with my dad and seeing everyone for the first time and John at the other end waiting for me.

“

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GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013 41

The sign Ad

rian hung on

the wall.

will you

Marry me?

fle The rer. ro ir m

e

n in th

he sig

of t ction

Mirror reflects message of the heart Catherine Allen and Adrian Mancini When Catherine Allen returned from the local shops a bit flustered, an unexpected event flipped her mood right around.

Catherine and Adrian were married in April by Father Rob Galea at St Brendan’s Church with a reception at The Carrington, Shepparton.

“

Catherine

42

GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013

“

Bride’s parents: Lenice and Ross Allen Groom’s parents: Pino Mancini and Teresa Luvara Bride’s dress: Bridal World, Ballarat Bridesmaids’ dresses: Brides and Maids, Shepparton Suits: Talisman, Mooroopna Flowers: Flowers on Fryers, Shepparton Cake: Amy Hawking Creative Cakes, Shepparton Hair: Divinity, Shepparton

I was frustrated because I couldn’t find what we needed for the house. We had just bought a house and were trying to sell another. I was a bit flustered I came in and Adrian said there was a crack in the bathroom mirror and asked me to check it out.

When I looked in the mirror, instead of seeing a crack I saw the words “Will you marry me?”

I did a few double takes to the sign and back to the mirror to figure out what was happening and how he got the writing to reflect.

As I turned around Adrian was on one knee.

It was great for it to be unexpected. I went bright red.’’

Adrian – who admitted feeling quite nervous before he popped the question – found the idea by Googling it on the internet to print the big question as a mirror image and stick it on the wall.

The ring he was holding was my great aunt Helen’s engagement ring. I had been very close to Aunt Helen before she passed away.

It was school holidays (both Catherine and Adrian are primary school teachers in Shepparton) and Adrian and I had visited my family in Ballarat the day before.

When I was out of the room, he asked Mum and Dad for their permission.

They gave him Aunt Helen’s ring.

There were so many things to think about when planning a wedding and we were lucky Dad got really into it. He made the invitations, the place cards, the cake boxes — he had his rumpus room set up.

He even made the bonbonnieres — homemade raspberry jam with a sticker ‘Spread the love.’

It was a bit corny, but I loved it.

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“

Adrian When I was thinking about proposing, I Googled a few things to see if there were any creative ideas around, and something came up about using mirrors to reflect writing.

I typed out ‘Will you marry me?’ in reverse and stuck it on the wall behind the bathroom mirror, so it reflected the right way around when you looked in the mirror.

I asked her to come and have a look at a ‘crack’ in the bathroom mirror.

She was a little flustered when she got home and she didn’t believe me.

Cat went all red when she saw the writing and when she turned around, I was down on one knee and she was very excited. We were both excited and happy.

I was a little nervous, but I had it all planned out that I was going to propose that week. A few days before, we’d been to Ballarat and I got Cat’s great aunt’s ring to propose to her with.

“

Interviews: Laura Griffin and Jenna Bishop Wedding photography: Lisa Nardella Photography

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GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013 43

will you

Marry me?

Spontaneous proposal two years in the making Wendy McDonald and James Stammers One morning, Wendy McDonald had a dream about a marriage proposal. The next minute, she was awake and her partner of several years surprised her with an impromptu proposal. The couple married on April 26 at Shepparton’s St Augustine Church with a reception at the Overlander Hotel.

“

Wendy

44

“

Bride’s parents: Neville and Janelle McDonald Groom’s parents: John and Heather Stammers Bride/bridesmaids’ dresses: Brides and Maids, Shepparton Suits: Talisman, Mooroopna Flowers: Renato’s Florist, Shepparton Hair: Fiona’s Hair Creations, Mooroopna

We were just lying in bed at the time, we’d just woken up in the morning.

I’d had this dream about asking him to marry me, and he said no and I was in tears. I remember waking up and feeling devastated, because I was upset in my dream.

I told him about it, and he reached over to his bedside table and picked up a box and said, “Will you marry me?”

He’d had the box sitting on the bedside table for two months prior and it had just been sitting there teasing me, because I knew where it was and what was in it. He wouldn’t put it away, he wouldn’t hide it — I moved it out of sight and he put it back there.

It was two years to the day that we bought the ring, so I’d been waiting and waiting and waiting. He just asked and I cried — then he said, “We’d better see if it still fits your finger!”

I had no idea he would propose spontaneously, I thought we might go out for tea or something.

It was the best way to wake up, though!

Interview: Jenna Bishop Photography: Lisa Nardella Photography

GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013

“

James We’d been together for several years, so I thought it was about time to propose.

It wasn’t really planned, it was a little spontaneous I guess.

Wendy’s dream may have actually been what prompted the proposal in the end.

I’d had the ring for a while and she knew I had the ring and was more or less just waiting for me to ask.

It was a good moment to propose, there was nothing rehearsed or planned for the proposal, it was a relaxed proposal.

The relaxed proposal at home meant there was no nerves, I wasn’t too nervous about it.

“

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www.leannewhitelyphotography.com.au GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013 45

The valleys’ brides

Naomi Harrington and Benjamin Dennis March 30, 2013 Bride’s parents: Robert and Julie Harrington Groom’s parents: Gavin and Dianne Dennis Service: Hurlstone Gardens, Shepparton Reception: The Vault (Teller), Shepparton Honeymoon: Turkey, Croatia, Italy Photographer: Leanne Whitley Photography, Echuca-Moama Bride’s dress: Brides & Maids, Shepparton Bridesmaids’ dresses: Forever New Suits: Connor Flowers: Simply Stems, Shepparton Cake: Amy Hawking, Shepparton Hair: VAB Hairdressers, Shepparton Make-up: Vanity Beauty, Shepparton Invitations: Simply Inviting

“

The day went so quick! I still get flashbacks of little moments such as a hug with my aunty and Ben’s face as I walked down the aisle. I cherish the time spent with my bridesmaids while we were getting ready and the way my dad’s face lit up when we took off in the Shelby Mustang GT 500.

I found that it’s all the little things that make the day so magical.

We wanted to have a small, intimate wedding. It did make it hard to establish the guest list but we were adamant that we wanted to be able to spend quality time with all of our guests. Having a smaller number of guests I felt we were able to achieve this which made it a special day for us.

GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013

“

46

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GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013 47

Kitchen tea

taken to a higher level An elegant high tea setting at Riverside Gardens was the perfect setting for Daniella Luvara’s pre-wedding celebrations.

Daniella’s sister and bridesmaid Sarina Attana said the bridesmaids decided to throw Daniella a kitchen tea with a difference, which was more in sync with her personality and her wedding.

“We just wanted something a little extra-special,” Sarina said.

The result was a beautiful high tea attended by 40 of Daniella’s closest family and friends on September 21.

Countless hours of planning and a flood of emails between Daniella’s five bridesmaids — Sarina Attana, Kathy Luvara, Elia Testa, Samantha Gugliotti and Aleasha Appo — made sure everything was planned perfectly down to the last detail.

“I knew it was a high tea, but I didn’t know it was going to be like that, it was so good,” Daniella said.

“I was completely surprised, it blew me away.”

A lilac-and-white-striped teabag-shaped invitation was designed for the high tea by Daniella’s graphic designer friend Lauren Kiss.

Forecast inclement weather had Sarina worrying about the outdoor setting, but she said thankfully the weather was perfect on the day.

“That week, I was checking the weather every day. That week, it was fairly windy and wet, only on the Saturday the weather came good,” Sarina said.

A gourmet spread — including zucchini slice, macarons, pavlova, chocolate butterscotch cheesecakes, profiteroles, white nougat pieces and a fruit platter — was prepared by Daniella’s friends and family.

In lieu of traditional kitchen gifts, guests were each asked to bring a handwritten favourite recipe to create a book for Daniella – with some humorous results after some included directions to the nearest McDonald’s as their recipe.

Kathy also created small, hand made bags of pot pourri as gifts for the guests, which also acted as place cards.

Daniella and Daniel Rose were married on October 19 at Jackson Park

by Jennifer Broadbent, with a reception at the Olivehouse Restaurant. n 48

GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013

Story: Jenna Bishop Photography: Sarina Attana (kitchen tea) and Kim James Photography (wedding)

GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013 49

groom talk

Groom’s responsibilities Not so fast grooms – if you thought your responsibilities ended with the proposal, think again!

Weddings are a celebration of you and your wife-to-be’s commitment to work together and love each other for as long as you both shall live and helping in the lead-up can demonstrate this.

Here is a list that you and your fiancée could use to start talking about the best way to divide tasks.

Team work •

Discuss the big decisions including the budget, guest list, the date (to avoid it clashing with the Soccer World Cup, State of Origin, AFL grand final) and the ceremony and reception venues.

•

Discuss photographer and videographer.

•

If your parents are contributing to the wedding, you should speak to them.

•

Meet with your wedding celebrant and attend any premarital counselling if required.

•

Attend dance lessons and practise the first dance.

•

Help with the invitations and thankyou notes.

•

Shop for wedding bands (each pays for the other’s band).

Groom’s tasks

50

•

Choose best man and groomsmen.

•

Choose and buy/hire suits for you, the best man and the groomsmen.

•

Buy thankyou gifts for the best man and the groomsmen — ideas include knives, cufflinks, golf paraphernalia or a good weekend bag.

•

Buy your bride a gift — many couples choose to swap presents at the rehearsal dinner or by way of a messenger on the wedding day itself.

Ideas include jewellery, a jewellery box, a framed photo, artwork or something she can use on the honeymoon.

•

Organise the music.

•

Organise the cars.

•

Write your wedding vows if you have decided to do personalised ones.

•

Organise and bring the marriage licence.

•

Get fit and groomed — you are likely to be in more photos on your wedding day than at any other time in your life.

•

Take the lead on planning the honeymoon.

•

Be romantic, supportive and patient during the wedding planning — a massage, flowers, dinner and nice notes can help calm stressed brides. n

GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013

Valleys’ venues Your wedding venue will determine how many guests you can invite to share your special day.

Budget and family expectations will also play a role when drawing up your guest list (page 52).

Bride & Groom provides a starting point for your wedding reception seating (page 55) and looks at the popularity of wishing wells (page 57).

Pictured: The Parklake, Shepparton, set up for Christianna Crawford and Scott Bowerman’s wedding reception on August 24. Photograph: Dale Wright Portrait Maker.

GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013 51

Valleys’ venues Story: Laura Griffin Photograph: Cassandra Jade Photography

Juggling expectations Drawing up the wedding guest list can be a complicated task — it requires balancing the bride, groom and families’ expectations, as well as the budget.

Wedding planner Josie Pellegrino of Pelles Events said initial discussions about the guest list should include the expected number of guests, venue size and budget.

“The venue will determine how many people you can invite,” Josie said.

“And then some people change their venue because it can’t accommodate their guest list.”

Kristy and Josh Hudson were married in Shepparton on December 8, 2012.

Dreams versus reality

Children

“Because of the cost of weddings these days, people realise that you can’t invite everyone,” Josie said.

In many of the weddings she plans, the groom and his parents and the bride and her parents write respective lists of the people they would like to invite, which get an “Oh my goodness the list has got out of control” response.

Making decisions about extended family, children, colleagues and partners can help get the list under control.

Josie encouraged couples to invite 10 to 20 per cent more than they would ideally like to attend because about that many will not be able to come to the event for various reasons.

Josie advised deciding early whether children would be invited to the wedding because it made an enormous difference to the event’s ambience.

Most of her clients choose not to invite children or only a limited number such as nieces and nephews, as Kristy and Josh did.

The Hudsons avoided confusion by addressing invitations to just the parents of other families.

If there will be children, a play area can be set up and a babysitter hired.

Money talks

Whether to invite colleagues and bosses depends on the relationship the bride and groom have with them.

“I had my two bosses but my husband Josh didn’t invite people from work because he felt weird inviting one or two of them,” Kristy said.

If you disagree about whom to invite, consider who is paying — if one family is paying they tend to have more say about the guest list.

Although Mooroopna’s Kristy and Josh Hudson paid for their December 2012 wedding themselves, they were happy for their parents to invite a few friends.

“Weddings are not only about children it also marks the next stage of the families’ lives,” Josie said.

“Parents are proud of their children and like to share it with their friends.”

Extended family and parents’ friends It is important the couple are respectful of families’ expectations which could include inviting extended family and members of the community.

If parents’ expectations vary wildly from those of the bride and groom, it could help to explain venue size and budget decisions.

Both Kristy and Josh have large families, so to keep the guest list to an intimate 80 people, they decided not to invite cousins.

“There were certain people we would have liked to invite, but if we hadn’t seen them for a while, we decided not to invite them to stay within budget,” Kristy said.

52

GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013

Colleagues

“And friend” Josie said there was no obligation to let single guests bring a friend.

If a guest is in a long-term relationship, they would likely expect their partner to be invited. If you know their name, address the invitation to them too.

Sitting single people together will give them an opportunity to meet people.

Maybes Even after following these suggestions, there will likely still be “maybes”.

“It comes down to who you really want to be there, including close family and friends,” Josie said.

Kristy and Josh were able to include more people than just those invited to the wedding in their marriage celebrations by having a larger engagement party. n

At Parklake, we’ve got the whole package Wedding packages starting from just $90 per person At the Parklake, our attention to detail will ensure that we will create your perfect wedding day dream. Relax, enjoy and have peace of mind that your special day is in the hands of wedding specialists.

With a choice of food and beverage selections to suit every budget, we have all the details covered.

To ensure your experience is flawless we also provide the special couple with a complimentary suite for the evening as well as luxury discounted accommodation packages for your guests.

We can cater for small gatherings or up to 250 guests for your special day.

Many food and beverage packages are available.

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We would be delighted to discuss your wedding day dream, please contact our function team today to discuss your individual needs.

481 Wyndham Street, Shepparton. Ph: (03) 5821 5822. E: reservations@parklake.com.au

www.parklake.com.au GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013 53

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Valleys’ venues Story: Laura Griffin

Everyone please be seated Assigning guests to tables or seats cuts down confusion and shows guests you have thought about which of them would like to sit together.

Here are some tips for assigning guests to tables or seats.

•

•

•

•

•

• • •

•

•

• •

The bridal party tends to sit at a prominent table, such as at the front or centre of the venue, so they can be seen during toasts and speeches. A long, rectangular table suits this well.

Some couples opt for a romantic table for just them.

Sometimes the newlyweds’ parents are on the bridal party table; otherwise a table can be made up with them, other close family members and officials. Divorced parents may not wish to be seated at the same table. If you are unsure, speak to each parent before the wedding.

Try to arrange seating so each person knows at least a few other guests on their table. Having new faces is a great opportunity for people to meet.

If there is a large group of friends or work colleagues that do not fit neatly on a table, divide the group evenly and fill each table with other people to ensure no-one is excluded.

Assess which seating arrangement single friends will most enjoy — a singles table or a few couples mixed in. Avoid seating one or two singles at a table with mostly couples.

Seat guests with others of similar ages or interests.

Couples should be seated together.

Younger children should be seated with their parents or, if you have a number of children at the reception, consider having a children’s table with toys and other activities.

Try to place pregnant, elderly and disabled guests and guests with small children where they have easy access to bathrooms and other facilities. Avoid seating them at tables that will be removed to make space after the meal.

Because older guests may have poorer hearing and eyesight, put them where they can see and hear speeches. Avoid putting them next to loud music.

Younger people or other people who love to dance can be seated close to the dance floor to help get it started.

Be sensitive to any relationships that could cause tension.

Assign tables or seats Letting guests choose which seat on a given table is slightly less work for the organiser. But having place cards can ensure people, including speakers, are seated in the most appropriate seats.

Assigning seats helps waiting staff.

Generally, if assigning seats on round tables, alternate men and women around the table. If you are using rectangular tables, couples can sit opposite each other.

Showing people their tables or seats When guests arrive at the reception venue, they should be able to work out easily where they are to sit. There are options to achieve this: • A printed seating plan.

• A spreadsheet with the guests listed in alphabetical order, followed by their table number.

• Small cards with the guests’ names and table number either organised by guests’ names or tables.

Depending on the size of the wedding, a floor plan showing table locations can also help guests when using the spreadsheet or card options, as can ushers.

Within the dining room, the tables should be prominently marked.

Chance to get creative Tables can be given creative names instead of numbers. Named tables add atmosphere and can avoid guests being offended by being seated on higher numbered tables. Table names can be inspired by the wedding theme or celebrate other aspects of the bride and groom’s lives. For example, tables can be named different: • Flowers.

• Colours.

• Films or television programs.

• Bands or songs.

• Books.

• Fictional characters or celebrities.

• Famous romantic couples.

• Cocktails, wines or liqueurs.

• Sweets.

• Animals.

• Cars or motorcycles. n GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013 55

Valleys’ venues Story: Laura Griffin Photography: Miss J Media

Gift giving made easy

Caitlyn Nastasi and Chase Wilkins.

Gift-giving at weddings is changing.

Previously couples were bound to registering at big department stores with traditional gifts including toasters, tea towels and linens.

Now couples have more flexibility, which they need as couples are older and most already live together and have already set up their homes. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics 78.2 per cent of couples who married in 2011 lived together before their wedding.

Some couples ask for contributions to wishing wells at the reception, accounts at travel agents and donations to charities, as well as more varied gift lists that could include vouchers for experiences.

Website Wedding Central Australia says recent bridal surveys and forums show 60 per cent of couples are asking for financial contributions in some form.

Some guests might think it is impersonal to give money, but one way to get around this is to specify what the money will be spent on — such as the honeymoon.

A brief note sent out with the invitation can explain this and how gifts will be collected, including a wishing well or bird cage in which guests can place their cards and contributions in envelopes.

If couples choose to have a gift registry, there are many more options than registering at one department store.

Multiple registries mean guests have a variety of places to shop.

Online registries such as www.whatwewishfor.com or www. notanothertoaster.com.au let the couple choose any gift from any store. Guests choose from your selection of online gifts, and when the registry closes the gift contributions are deposited into a specified bank account.

Whether couples have a traditional in-store or online registry, guests appreciate a large selection of items of varied prices from which to choose.

When Shepparton’s Caitlyn Nastasi and Chase Wilkins wed on January 4, they decided to have a wishing well.

They had been living together for about five years, so already had many of the household items they needed.

Many guests travelled from interstate for the wedding, so it was easier for them to bring an envelope than a gift.

Kialla West’s Olivehouse Restaurant supplied the couple with a wishing well that was set up on a table. The contributions went towards the couple’s fortnight-long honeymoon in Cairns and other parts of northern Queensland.

“My background is Italian and some of my family members were a bit more traditional and wanted to give gifts, and of course we were really happy for them to do that,” Caitlyn said.

“We were happy that people were able to come and celebrate with us.” n 56

GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013

Wishing wells “We’ve got three different wishing wells — the small and medium sizes sit on the table and the large size stands on the floor.

Their popularity started early last year and people are increasingly hiring them for engagements, weddings and other events.”

— GV Party Hire owner Tania Orchard

“This is a wishing well with a difference. A vintagestyle suitcase to reflect a couple’s intention to guests they want to travel on their honeymoon.”

— Sabac on High wedding planner Tracy Heyward

“A secure handcrafted timber keepsake memory box can be multi-functional in white or stained timber. Ideal as a wishing well on the wedding day with an envelope slot and afterwards to keep special wedding memorabilia in one place.”

— Bridal Ideas owner Wendy Chandler

MITCHELTON MITCHELTON WINES MITCHELTON WINES WINES

Located on the banks of the mighty Goulburn River, just Located on the banksis ofathe mighty Goulburn River, just outside of Nagambie, Mitchelton Wines picturesque outside of Nagambie, Mitchelton Wines is a picturesque and inspiring setting With for and any event. over 25 years experience, the Mitchelton team can inspiring setting for any event.

Located on the banks of the Goulburn River, just outside Located on the banks isofthe theideal mighty Goulburn River,transform justWhetheryour of Nagambie, Mitchelton location for your wedding day into a reality. it’s adream wedding, conference, product launch, awards Whether it’s a wedding, conference, product launch, awards outside of Nagambie, Mitchelton Wines is a picturesquedinner, business meeting or ladies lunch, the team at wedding. dinner, business meeting or ladies lunch, the team at Mitchelton Wines can help to make it your best yet. With Whether you’re planning a large wedding for several and inspiring setting for any event.

Mitchelton Wines to make it your bestand yet.outdoor With event spaces on This beautiful, picturesque setting inspires thoughts of can help incredibly unique, both indoor hundred guests or an intimate family gathering, our incredibly unique, both indoor outdoor event site, our and team can transform your spaces idea into aon reality.

Whether it’s wedding, conference, product launch, awards ceremonies byathe river, photos in the vines or intimate Executiveyour Chef and kitchen team take pride in delivering ourofteam can transform reality. dinner, business meeting orand ladies lunch, the team at moments with your bridal party asite, bottle sparkling, Our Executiveidea Chefinto takesapride in delivering a high quality, a high quality, richly flavoursome, local and seasonally richly flavoursome, local and seasonally focused menu, with Mitchelton can help to make it your best yet. With in the 40 yearWines old cellars.

Our Executive Chef takes pride incan delivering quality, options that be tailored a tohigh your needs. fresh menu, incredibly unique, both indoor and outdoor event spaces on with options that can be tailored to suit your flavoursome, localHand andselected, seasonally focused menu, with Arrive by boat to guests awaiting on richly pews surrounding estate grown wines will complement your site, our team can transform your idea into a reality. needs. options that can be tailored to your needs. our ceremony deck or maybe arrival in a Daimler menu if required, as a wine list can be designed specifically for your individual event.

Limousine or 1966 Mustang more your style ... a high quality, Our Executive Chef takesis pride in delivering Our eventswines co-ordinator is available toyour meet with you Hand selected, estate grown will complement Mitchelton Wines has many for your special day. menu,Our events co-ordinator is available to meet with you by richly flavoursome, localoptions and seasonally focused with by arrangement and will be happy to help you with the menu if required, as a wine list canand bewill designed specifically arrangement be happy to help you with the entire options that can be tailored to your needs.

The Mitchelton complex features a variety of unique for your individual event. entire planning of your wedding day. planning of your event. indoor and outdoor spaces to hold your reception Hand selected, estate grown wines will complement your For more information or to make a booking, please Our events co-ordinator is available to meet with you For more information, or to book anby appointment including Muse Restaurant, Muse Montage phone our friendly restaurant team on: menu if required, as a wine listTerrace, can beThe designed specifically arrangement and will be happy to help you with the entire please call our friendly restaurant team on Room andindividual the River Cruiser for your event.or if you prefer an outdoor Mitchelton Restaurant 03 5736 2225 or email planning of your event.

03 5736 2225 or email restaurant@mitchelton.com.au reception on the lawn overlooking the river. restaurant@mitchelton.com.au Our events co-ordinator is available to meet with you by For more information or to make a booking, please arrangement and will be happy to help you with the entire phone our friendly restaurant team on: planning of your event.

Mitchelton Restaurant 03 5736 2225 or email For more information or to make a booking, please restaurant@mitchelton.com.au phone our friendly restaurant team on: Mitchelton Wines 470 Mitchellstown Road, Nagambie Victoria 3608, Australia Mitchelton Restaurant Telephone +61 (0)3 5736 2222 03 5736 2225 or email

restaurant@mitchelton.com.au www.mitchelton.com.au

Mitchelton Wines 470 Mitchellstown Road, Nagambie Victoria 3608, Australia Telephone +61 (0)3 5736 2222 www.mitchelton.com.au

GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013 57

Rich River Golf Club Resort Echuca Moama

Stories: Laura Griffin

Vows mean more with the personal touch

Photography: Dale Wright Portrait Maker

When Christianna Crawford and Scott Bowerman’s marriage celebrant asked them if they wanted to write personalised vows, they looked at each other and instantly knew it was a great idea.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CINDY POWER Packages available for 30 to 350 guests Extensive Menu Options ~ Exceptional Service Stunning Championship Golf Course Views Hire Items Available ~ On-site Accommodation

1800 035 634

24 Lane Moama NSW www.richriver.com.au

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GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013

“We didn’t have a religious ceremony so there were no prayers or hymns, so we wanted to include something beautiful and it was really nice for our guests to hear something personalised,” Christianna said.

The couple looked at vows on the internet and some pages their celebrant provided, but they didn’t capture their personalities or their love.

“They just weren’t us,” Christianna said.

Scott said writing their own vows was personal and it meant a lot more to them.

Christianna sat down one night and thought about the experiences she and Scott had shared and her feelings towards him.

“If you think about the reasons why you are getting married, it won’t be hard.”

Christianna said she and Scott decided to read the vows they had each written during the rehearsal so they would not be overwhelmed at the ceremony held on August 24 at Shepparton’s Hurlstone Gardens.

“But with everyone there and being all dressed up, I still had tears in my eyes when Scott read his vows to me.”

Excerpt of Scott’s vows to Christianna: You’re a moon among the stars, the light in the dark.

You make me laugh, you make me happy, you make me feel alive. ... Our two lives will move through life together, our two lives will be better together, our two lives will be one forever.

Excerpt of Christianna’s vows to Scott: From day one you have treated me like a princess, you have always been there for me when I’ve been at my lowest and you have picked me up and told me how much you love me and make me feel on top of the world.

Valleys’ venues

Celebrate at Eastbank Photography: Lisa Nardella Photography

The Eastbank Centre is a spacious, modern and flexible venue – perfect for your special day.

Ceremony pays tribute to groom’s faith

Eastbank Centre 70 Welsford Street, Shepparton (03) 5832 9865 bookings@riverlinkvenues.com.au www.riverlinksvenues.com.au

When Renee Levett and Farzam Akbari married on March 23, they wanted their ceremony to reflect their personalities and backgrounds.

They included a Baha’i marriage ceremony in their civil service to celebrate Farzam’s faith.

Farzam’s family is Persian, and the Baha’i faith was founded in Persia in the 19th century.

Renee said the purpose of the Baha’i marriage ceremony was mainly spiritual and was to foster harmony, fellowship and unity between the two partners.

“The Baha’i ceremony can be done differently for different cultures, however the one thing that must be recited are the vows to be said by the bride and groom — ‘We will all, verily, abide by the Will of God’,” Renee said.

They said the vows were said in the presence of a witness from the Baha’i community — in this case Farzam’s father Val. Renee and Farzam also had a candle-lighting ceremony in which they each had a candle and lit one together to symbolise themselves as individuals retaining their own identities but also coming together to form something more.

Renee came across an ancient Native American Apache wedding prayer that she and Farzam both really liked and thought spoke about their relationship.

“When we talked to the marriage celebrant about including the Baha’i vows, she asked if we wanted to include another prayer to make the ceremony diverse and inclusive and she brought the same Apache prayer to us to consider,” Renee said.

The bride was also excited to be able to show her husband’s family Shepparton, the city in which she grew up and many of her family live. About 100 family and friends celebrated the ceremony and reception at the Olivehouse Restaurant, Kialla West.

T

Decorated by Joise Pellegrino from PELLES-EVENTS.

The perfect setting From the ceremony to the reception With spectacular views of the golf course and dining in the Links Bistro, your wedding is sure to be one to remember.

• Tailored packages to suit your special day • Seating of up to 160 people for the reception • Ceremony on the golf course

71 Gowrie St, Tatura Club Ph: 5824 1689 Links Bistro: 5824 1046 www.hilltopgolfclub.com.au GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013 59

EM ERA L D B A N K

WOOLSHED Exceeding expectations

Exclusive, rustic and flexible The jewel in the wedding crown of the Goulburn Valley.

Renowned and respected for quality and personalised service.

Relaxed country style for your wedding with world-class service and cuisine.

The new owners have a wealth of experience in making your reception an event that your guests will talk about for years to come.

Call Emerald Bank Woolshed today to discuss our truly unique wedding venue.

7719 Goulburn Valley Hwy, Shepparton P: 0488 552 366 E: brendan.speed@gmail.com W: www.emeraldbankwoolshed.com.au

E ME R A L D B A N K WOOLSHED

THE Wedding Specialist The Connection is the ideal setting for any wedding. With a forest backdrop and a beautiful lawn area for ceremonies, we can cater for small or large weddings whether it is a formal or cocktail event, providing great quality at affordable prices.

With extensive experience, Bernard and Jill Hayes have the knowledge to assist you with your function, making your day the best it can be.

The Connection is just minutes from to the Shepparton CBD and there is plenty of parking available.

Call us today for more information.

5821 0600 Peter Ross-Edwards Causeway between Mooroopna & Shepparton www.theconnectionshepparton.com.au 60

GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013

Story: Kerri Thomson

Table centrepiece ideas Table centrepieces are usually the first thing guests notice as they enter the reception venue and something that will remain in full view for the entire evening.

Bride & Groom asked Sabac on High’s owner and wedding planner for tips on making the right choice for your wedding.

Why do you want to decorate?

Shepparton’s Sabac on High owner Chris Wilcox said this was the first question she asked brides, and the classic response was “I want it to be memorable”.

The way to achieve this is to choose decorations that will set the mood for the occasion, tying in special colours or themes.

And remember, centrepieces should not be too intrusive or distract guests as they converse across the table.

“The perfect setting helps create the atmosphere for the day and the more you talk with a bride, the more you get to know them and what they wish to achieve,” Chris said.

The starting point is generally deciding on a theme such as country, vintage, provincial, rustic or bling.

“Rustic is on trend, bling is still popular and flower arrangements are what brides like,” Chris said.

“If a bride is considering a vintage theme we suggest antique bottles, tins and lanterns.”

There are a plethora of props and adornments to choose from for your tables. You may consider candle holders, feathers, willow sticks, fish bowls, bird cages, scatter diamonds, coloured sand or gel balls.

An example of a tall centrepiece is a martini glass with a long thin stem which won’t impede the view across the table.

It is important to consider the size of your venue when choosing decorations, so they do not get lost in the space.

Usually brides match their table centrepieces to the colour theme of the bridal party.

“Purple was popular 12 months ago and I thought it would have run its course, but it is still a popular choice,” Chris said.

Illumination can influence the mood of the venue, adding a flicker of romance with candlelight or fairy, octopus, string or submersible lights.

The planning processes vary from bride to bride, according to wedding planner Tracy Heyward.

She said “anything is possible” for brides searching for unique centrepieces.

Tracy said brides should collect two or three photos of ideas they liked, and Chris agreed “something that jumps out at them”.

“Tracy and I always get really excited because each bride has specific requirements and at the start they don’t know this, but it evolves,” Chris said.

“So you encourage the bride’s ideas because the bride usually knows more about what she wants than she thinks,” Tracy said.

The bride and groom’s budget will dictate the degree of elaborateness of their centrepieces whether bought, hired or homemade.

“You can achieve something pretty on the table that is cost effective but elegant, whereas an elaborate rose ball centrepiece can take a day to make and is at the top-end price bracket,” Chris said.

Valleys’ venues

A cream, wrought iron birdcage with a pillar candle, artificial flowers and four glass tea light holders, sitting on a round mirror base.

A 40 cm vase with willow stick, a white stone base and hydrangeas.

A glass vase draped with lights, black and white feathers and pearl stems.

A wrought-iron tree stand with glass balls, ivy and tea lights; and (inset) white organza ribbon and white doves decorated with pearls.

A glass fishbowl with purple gel balls, peonies and submersible lights.

An elegant 50 cm martini glass with a classical artificial cream rose ball.

Centrepieces supplied by Sabac on High

The Goulburn Valley’s Premier Wedding and Event Venue The GV Hotel has a reputation for being the Goulburn Valley’s premier function and wedding reception venue. You can hold your function in one of our four modern function spaces or we bring the catering to your location. We have a wide selection of packages and menus to accommodate your budget and requirements.

GV Hotel 223 High Street, Shepparton. P 5821 9822 w: www.gvhotel.com e: info@gvhotel.com GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013 61

Valley’s venue guide

Valleys’ venue guide Emerald Bank Woolshed

GV Hotel

7719 Goulburn Valley Hwy, Shepparton. Ph: 0488 552 366.

Email: brendan.speed@gmail.com Web: www.emeraldbankwoolshed.com.au

223 High St, Shepparton. Ph: 5821 9822. Web: www.gvhotel.com The GV Hotel is recognised throughout the region as a special wedding reception venue and is the perfect location to celebrate your special day. They have four modern event spaces that have recently been refurbished and are suitable for events of any size. They also have a full range of wedding packages which can be tailored to fit your budget and tastes.

For more information, contact their wedding co-ordinator on 5821 9822 or email info@gvhotel.com

Exclusive, rustic and flexible — the jewel in the wedding crown of the Goulburn Valley. Emerald Bank Woolshed is renowned and respected for quality and personalised service. They offer a relaxed country style for your wedding with world class service and cuisine. The new owners have a wealth of experience in making your reception an event that your guests will talk about for years to come. Call today to book a truly unique wedding venue.

Hurlstone Gardens 197 Ford Road, Shepparton. Ph: (03) 5821 0121 or 0488 210 077. Web: www.hurlstonehomestead.com.au Indulge in the ultimate wedding experience at Hurlstone Homestead. Set in magnificent gardens and a venue where new meets old and melds to create a wonderful mix of history, serene surrounds and memorable architecture, Marg and Kerry Atley will tailor your wedding to realize your dream day. Function packages are individually created to suit your needs. “We offer cocktail style events and buffet receptions or seated receptions for smaller numbers” Marg said. There are 3 luxurious Bed and Breakfast rooms and the bride and her attendants can get ready for the grand entrance at the garden ceremony. The bridal couple can enjoy their first night in the luxurious spa room complete with champagne and a gourmet cooked breakfast next day. Hurlstone Homestead is the perfect venue for your wedding or special function.

Nagambie Lakes Receptions – Kirwan’s Bridge Winery 82 Kirwans Bridge Rd, Nagambie. Ph: 0408 035 155 or 0425 793 995. Web: www.nagambielakesreceptions.com.au At Nagambie Lakes Receptions — Kirwan’s Bridge Winery, we specialise in beautifully constructed country weddings and receptions.

Architecturally impressive, the Kirwan’s Bridge venue contrasts polished concrete walls with sharp steel bar tops, balanced by large wooden doors and open fireplaces. The overall feel is warm, modern and sophisticated. The venue overlooks a vineyard and the beautiful Nagambie Lakes — creating a perfectly relaxed, romantic atmosphere for your special occasion.

Photographs www.benmarden.com.au and Anthony Leong, Modform

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GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013

The venue caters for sit down lunches/dinners for up to 200 guests, and in Summer the a-la-carte function room opens onto a large outdoor terrace, raising seated capacity to 350. The venue also accommodates cocktail parties of up to 800 people. Our Bridal suite provides a private area if you need to get away from it all for a while.

Accommodation packages are also available.

Plan to be beautiful You’ve got the dress and the date — now it’s time to sort out your perfect wedding make-up and start preparing for the big day. Bride and Groom has put together some tips to have you looking your best at your wedding.

Six months before

A week before

It’s basic but important — drinking water can help clear your skin up, so try and drink eight glasses a day.

Try to cut down on your salt intake just before your wedding; it can help reduce puffiness in your face.

Start looking around for a make-up artist if you plan on having your make-up done professionally. This will give you plenty of time to research several options and book in for a trial to get the look you’re after.

Three to four days before, get all your hair removal done. If you plan on using a new method, try it well in advance to ensure your skin doesn’t react.

Consider booking a group manicure and pedicure session for your bridal party to relax the day before the wedding.

Three months before Now is the time to start booking all your beauty appointments if you haven’t done so already — hair and make-up on the day, waxing, plus manicure/pedicure and facials or skin treatments if you plan to have them.

Consider adding a weekly bath to your beauty regime in the months before the wedding. Add some bath salts to hydrate skin and use a salt scrub to buffer rough areas, such as often-forgotten elbows. This will make it easier if you plan to get a fake tan and will leave you with moisture-rich skin.

Two months before Your wedding is one of the best excuses to schedule yourself for one — or several — facials in the lead-up to the big day. Facials can help rejuvenate blood circulation and encourage skin cell renewal.

If you plan on getting a tan for your wedding, now is the time to source and book a trial. If you’re happy with the application and colour, book an appointment with the same person for two days before the wedding. If you have your dress, try it on with the tan to ensure it’s the right shade.

Two weeks before Have your final hair cut and colour before the wedding. If possible, book in for your hair trial at the same time, remembering to take your veil and any other pieces you plan on using.

On the day Fake, natural eyelashes are a good way to ensure you have beautiful long eyelashes without fear of smudging mascara. Look for ones you can apply individually for a more natural look.

If you choose mascara, put two coats of your favourite on and use an eyelash curler, then finish with a coat of waterproof mascara to help avoid smudging.

Choose an eye cream with light diffusers, which help to reflect light and give skin a brighter appearance and can help counteract dark circles.

Make sure your make-up artist gives you small samples of the makeup they use for touch ups throughout the day.

If you’re having an outdoor wedding in summer, remember to apply sunscreen in the morning, giving it plenty of time to absorb before getting dressed.

Pack a small bag of beauty essentials for the day — make-up for touch ups, safety pins, bobby pins, cleansing wipes, adhesive bandages if your shoes rub, etc.

Consider also investing in some blotting papers to keep in your bag on the day to help manage oil and keep your face shine-free.

Use eye drops in the morning to refresh tired eyes, but stick with a brand you’ve used before.

Start your big day with pampering and fun The professional and friendly team at Gloss Hair & Beauty will ensure that everything runs smoothly, letting you sit back and enjoy the morning of your special day.

We can design wedding packages to suit your budget and needs combining hair, makeup and beauty. We can also help organise catering and champagne to really top off your experience at Gloss.

Call us today for more information.

4-6/127 Fryers St , Shepparton (03) 5831 1377

info@glosshairandbeauty.com.au we use & recommend

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GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013 63

Perfect hair adds the finishing touch The hairstyle you wear on your big day can complete the look created by a perfect dress and frame your face.

Gloss Hair and Beauty Boutique owner Jess Wright said whether brides were channelling the glamour of Hollywood’s red carpet or the timeless elegance of royalty, she suggested picking the dress then the hairstyle.

“Hair has to complement the dress,” Jess said.

Bringing a photo of the gown to the salon will ensure the stylist is on the same page and can work with you to make a hairstyle that will best suit its theme and shape.

Hot hair trends include soft and feminine curls and waves for the ultimate romantic look. The trend towards pretty styles is also being seen in popular up-dos including side-swept curls that have height at the crown and curls falling over one shoulder; as well as modern takes on high buns and chignons that feature more natural hair textures and adornments.

Style to suit neckline The dress’s neckline frames the face and needs to be considered when working out a hairstyle.

If the neck and/or shoulders of a dress are highly detailed such as with lace, a simple hairstyle will not draw attention away from these features.

Generally, hair should not cover the neckline. With a high neckline, wear hair up high to add height and to expose the neckline.

A one-shoulder dress or one with details on one side will usually look best if a side hairstyle is put to the opposite side to balance the overall look.

Strapless or spaghetti strapped dresses look great with hair out or in loosely pinned back styles.

Style to suit face shape

Far from messy, Jess said these styles can also be elegant.

A good stylist will be able to tweak hairstyles to accentuate a face’s shape and best features, Jess said.

Continue the theme

OVAL — Because this is a well-proportioned face shape, any style suits it including hair pulled back.

The look you want to achieve with your hair will be based on the theme and formality of your wedding, including your dress.

Match a classic hairstyle to a classic dress; go for sleek hair with a sleek dress; and opt for a looser style with a more relaxed dress that would be perfect for a garden or beach wedding.

ROUND — A round face can be slimmed with a style that adds height at the crown. A tousled or wispy fringe can look great if the hair is parted to one side.

SQUARE — Adding height at the crown will elongate the face and hair placed softly around softens the face’s angles.

Let the team at Sabac plan your wedding With almost 30 years of experience and an incredible range of products, you can count on Sabac to provide you with the wedding of your dreams. Come in and talk to the team and be inspired.

Specialising in all things wedding. Hire, flowers, decorations, centrepieces, chair covers and sash hire, lolly bar.

We make fresh and silk wedding bouquets.

Exciting offEr – free wishing well when we arrange your table centrepieces.

167-171 High Street, Shepparton Ph: (03) 5831 2500 Email: info@sabac.com.au 64

GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013

Sabac

Story: Laura Griffin Hair styled by Gloss Hair and Beauty Boutique

PEAR — A hairstyle that is fuller at the top will balance a wider jaw line.

HEART — A hairstyle that is fuller at the jaw line will balance a wider forehead. Adding a soft or side fringe can also reduce the appearance of width.

OBLONG/LONG — Layers, wispy side fringes are ways to add fullness to the sides of the face.

Add adornments Most brides that Jess works with are adding something to their hairstyle.

She has seen increased use of hair pieces and extensions to add length and/or volume if brides are wearing their hair up or down.

She said about half of the brides wore veils and other popular options include lace headbands, jewelled pins and combs, fascinators (some with netting) and flowers.

Pre-wedding hair care Jess suggested getting hair coloured one to two weeks before the wedding to let the colour settle.

“The week of the wedding, we often do a gloss semi (-permanent) colour for super shine on the day and in photographs.”

She suggested if brides wanted to change their hair colour or style, to do it at least a few months before the wedding: “It’s better not to experiment too close to the day.”

Having a hair trial about a month before the event means the hair will

not change much, giving the bride a good indication of how it will look; and also giving her enough time to iron out any kinks.

Having a make-up trial on the same day enables brides to see how the whole look will come together.

Bring any pictures that inspire you, as well as any accessories you plan to use in your hair.

Short hair “There is a common misconception that you have to grow hair out,” Jess said.

“We do a lot of brides with short hair now and their hair can look great straight, tousled, curled or with waves.”

Adornments can dress up short hair and braids in the front are another great feature.

Photography (left to right): Karina Chilman models soft curls and waves with a fascinator featuring netting, Lisa Nardella Photography.

Bride Jackie Humphries’ high bun and hair piece before the placement of her veil at the bun’s base, Tracey Hughes Photography.

Bride Shanel Few’s pretty up-do, Cobram Photographics.

Debutante Ashleigh Jorgensen’s unstructured bun with pearl adornments, Photography with Prue.

Debutante Kelsey Black’s feminine curls falling over one shoulder is also a popular look with today’s brides, Tasma Mizzi Photography.

Stunning and elegant marquees Goulburn Valley Party Hire offer a comprehensive personal service and an extensive range of products from clear span structures and marquees through to catering equipment and party hire accessories.

Visit our showroom to discuss some ideas for your next function.

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6-10 Keppel Street, Shepparton Ph: (03) 5821 9100 | E: gvpartyhire@bigpond.com W: www.gvpartyhire.com.au GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013 65

The valleys’ brides

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GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013

The best limousines in central Victoria

Stephanie Smith and Bradley Boyle April 27, 2013 Bride’s parents: Warren and Karen Smith Groom’s parents: Ron and Wendy Boyle Service: Hurlstone Gardens, Shepparton Reception: Shepparton RSL Honeymoon: P&O Cruise (Brisbane to Vanuatu/New Caledonia) Photographer: Photography with Prue, Shepparton Bride’s dress: Michele’s Bridal and Formal Wear, Shepparton Bridesmaids’ dresses: Deblu’s, Echuca Suits: Talisman, Mooroopna Flowers: Sabac on High, Shepparton Cake: Di Davey, Shepparton Hair: Mainwaves, Shepparton Make-up: Jacinta’s Beauty Therapy, Tallygaroopna Invitations: Artistique Graphic Design, Shepparton

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The whole day felt like a fairytale. We had perfect weather and everything went perfectly. I think even if something did go wrong, we wouldn’t have noticed as we were having the time of our lives.

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GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013 67

Story: Laura Griffin Wedding photography: Leanne Whitely Photography

Lindsay Greig had dreamed about going to the idyllic Maldives since she was a child — and the islands’ white sand and crystal clear warm waters did not disappoint.

Tropical paradise

an idyllic destination

Maldives The Republic of the Maldives, also known as the Maldive Islands or the Maldives, is an island nation in the Indian Ocean consisting of 1190 islands, of which 200 are inhabited.

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GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013

Travel

Lindsay and husband Craig McDougall spent five days in the tropical paradise as part of their honeymoon, which also included more than a fortnight on Thailand’s Phi Phi Island and Phuket.

Lindsay has worked as a travel agent for nine years and despite her professional and personal experiences — she is lucky enough to have travelled extensively overseas — the Maldives’ natural beauty and the over-water bungalow greatly impressed her.

The newlyweds watched brightly coloured tropical fish and reef sharks swimming around the coral from the balcony of their Sheraton Full Moon Resort bungalow. Because the resort is the only one on the island, Lindsay said they could get lost in the tranquillity.

They enjoyed walking off the steps of their personal balcony into the “lovely, warm water”, although Lindsay said she waited until the reef sharks swam away to jump in.

The couple also tried scuba diving and said there could not have been a better place to first experience it.

“Another highlight was watching the sun set while drinks and nibbles were brought around,” Lindsay said.

“We were lucky enough to have beautiful weather every day with temperatures higher than 30°C and sunny.”

It was also important to Lindsay and Craig to have a relaxed wedding. They made the celebration a brief holiday for their wedding party — Lindsay and her three bridesmaids travelled from Geelong to Echuca a few days before the ceremony and enjoyed a visit to a day spa.

A bouquet everyone will want to get their hands on Wedding bouquets are not just beautiful flowers; they form part of a memory that will be with you for the rest of your life.

At Simply Stems we believe that every wedding is unique and we take the time to talk through all your ideas, finding the perfect flowers to suit your needs and budget.

For further information about how we can put the finishing touches on your special day call us on 5822 4515 or come and see us at 49 High Street, Shepparton.

“The boys hired a cabin in a caravan park and took the boat out for a waterski on the morning of the wedding,” Lindsay said.

The wedding ceremony was held at Echuca Aquatic Reserve and the reception at Radcliffe’s Echuca on February 22.

Refreshments were set up in the park so everyone could sit, have a drink and catch up while photos were taken. Lindsay said this arrangement worked well because it was a hot February day.

49 High Street, Shepparton ph (03) 5822 4515 www.simplystems.com.au GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013 69

Story: Laura Griffin

Destination

close to home

A number of couples featured in this edition of Goulburn and Murray Valleys Bride & Groom found honeymooning in Victoria a great way to unwind after their wedding.

Staying within the state (or the country) provided newlyweds a relaxing break even if they had time or money constraints. For many, the location is not as important as having time with their new husband or wife.

Their honeymoons were also a great opportunity to visit some of the beautiful areas in their own backyard — whether it be mountains, bushland or beaches.

Honeymoon destinations in Victoria •

Photograph by Lisa Nardella Photography

Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges have rolling hills, steeply weathered valleys and gullies covered in thick temperate rainforest.

Rebecca Poole and Daryl Threlfall

Daylesford and Hepburn Springs are in the middle of Australia’s largest concentration of mineral springs, which are revered for their health benefits.

Honeymooning in Victoria was the best way to make the most of the short time available to Rebecca Poole and Daryl Threlfall.

•

The Grampians feature a striking series of sandstone mountain ranges.

•

The Great Ocean Road is one of the world’s most scenic coastal drives and provides access to landmarks including the 12 Apostles, iconic surf breaks and waterfalls.

As well as beaches, Phillip Island also offered plenty of activities they could do with their two-year-old daughter Lucinda, such as the fairy penguin parade and the giant koala. They also did a day trip to picturesque Wilsons Promontory.

•

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Victoria’s High Country can be enjoyed on skis, in bushwalking boots or in the various gourmet restaurants, boutique wineries and lodgings.

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Mornington Peninsula offers beaches, mineral springs and green hinterland, as well as restaurants, galleries and gardens.

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The Murray River runs by sandy beaches, bushland and red gum forests.

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Gippsland and Wilsons Promontory have beaches, lakes and rivers, as well as fern forests.

Honeymooned on Phillip Island

They looked through a map book of places in Victoria neither had visited, and found Phillip Island.

Rebecca said it was great to get away for a holiday. She and Daryl decided to limit their break to four nights on Phillip Island because they had started a plumbing business earlier in the year and they were expecting their second child and wanted to be able to have time off when she was born (Ivy was born on October 18).

“It was really great to be away for the five days because we knew we’d be busy when we got back,” Rebecca said.

Rebecca and Daryl have travelled overseas and said with their tight schedule they did not want to lose whole days travelling.

“We wanted to be able to get to our destination quickly and really be able to enjoy it.”

The couple also had a relaxed wedding at their Bunbartha property.

They were married on the banks of the Goulburn River, near which they had a marquee set up.

“It was relaxed and everyone had a really good time,” Rebecca said.

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GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013

Story: Jenna Bishop

Married twice thanks to Elvis

Wendy McDonald and James Stammers Honeymooned along the Great Ocean Rd Wendy McDonald and James Stammers chose a romantic local getaway on one of Australia’s famous coastlines for their honeymoon.

The couple spent a leisurely week travelling along the Great Ocean Road from Geelong to Warrnambool after their April 26 wedding.

It was an easy choice for the couple — the Great Ocean Road had always been on their travel to-see list.

“It was somewhere James had always really wanted to go and we’d already done the big holiday the year before and it was more suited to our budget at the time,” Wendy said.

During their week-long holiday, Wendy and James stopped at all the main tourist points along the drive, including taking a treetop walk in the Otway Forest, visiting chocolate shops, ice-creameries and taking a scenic helicopter ride.

Wendy said they took a relaxed approach to their honeymoon, which allowed them freedom to choose when to go on day trips and to accommodate inclement weather.

“It was more about taking it as it came, we didn’t plan anything in particular,” she said.

Las Vegas wedding, July 3

Dookie wedding, June 26 Photograph by Photography with Prue The bright, shining lights tempted Danneille and Jamie ‘Fatty’ Watson to Las Vegas for their honeymoon, but there was one special reason they chose it: the perfect place for a second wedding.

They were married for the second time at the Graceland Wedding Chapel on July 3, exactly a week after their Australian nuptials.

“We wanted to do it all over again and get married by Elvis,” Danneille said.

The couple married in Australia on June 26 at Dookie’s St Mary’s Catholic Church, with a reception at the Overlander Hotel in Shepparton.

Danneille said their Las Vegas wedding was a combination of hilarious and amazing.

“It was amazing, we got one of the girls at the front desk to witness the marriage and she was so excited,” she said.

The Mooroopna couple spent eight days in Las Vegas, staying at the luxurious Mirage Hotel with a room overlooking Las Vegas’ iconic Treasure Island Hotel and its famous pirate ship-filled lake.

The couple also visited the Belaggio Hotel’s stunning water fountain display and its $3 million conservatory and botanical gardens.

The couple booked a scenic helicopter flight over the Grand Canyon, complete with sunset landing and a picnic.

“It was such an old, beautiful place,” Danneille said.

Photograph by Jenny Enever Photography

Hannah Murdoch and Todd Enever Honeymooned at Airlie Beach Hannah Murdoch and Todd Enever were married at Jackson Park, Shepparton on May 11. They were keen to explore a part of Australia neither had visited before and chose to go to the “magical” Airlie Beach.

“It was gorgeous, especially at that time of year,” Hannah said.

“The town is right there on the beach and there is so much to do — we saw sea turtles and fish when we went snorkelling, we did a fullday kayak adventure around the islands and a helicopter ride to a deserted island where we had a picnic lunch.

She said the couple also took advantage of the city’s plentiful free tourist attractions. She said they also chose not to hire a car and walked as much as possible, allowing them to see more of the city.

They hope to return to Las Vegas for their third anniversary.

About Las Vegas Primarily known for its famous strips of neon-lit casinos, Las Vegas is home to many popular entertainment shows, stunning desert scenery, multiple wedding chapels and museums.

The most populous city in Nevada, Las Vegas is home to close to two million people and is also close to several iconic American attractions, including the Grand Canyon and the Hoover Dam.

“There’s also great shopping and so many amazing places to eat.”

GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013 71

wedding

planner

18-12 MONTHS

4-2 MONTHS

❑ Discuss budget ❑ Decide on, type, size, theme and formality of wedding ❑ Set the date ❑ Reserve ceremony location ❑ Select and confirm celebrant ❑ Book reception venue ❑ Select your bridal party ❑ Start on guest list and begin to gather guests’ addresses

❑ Organise order of ceremony and confirm details and official wedding documents with celebrant ❑ Organise seating arrangements for reception ❑ Organise accommodation for bride and groom (if required)

Bride: ❑ Start looking for wedding dress and bridesmaids stores Start looking for: ❑ Florists ❑ Music for ceremony ❑ Entertainment for reception ❑ Photographer ❑ Videographer ❑ Cars ❑ Honeymoon destinations ❑ Wedding cake

Bride: ❑ Have a trial day for hair and make-up for bride and bridesmaids. If possible organise a dress fitting to evaluate the overall look ❑ Make sure you have all your accessories: shoes, lingerie, jewellery and head wear ❑ Arrange hens’ night and/or bridal shower with bridesmaids ❑ Organise gifts for attendants Groom: ❑ Confirm booking for hire of suits for groom and groomsmen (great idea to have all your boys wearing the same or similar shoes and socks) ❑ Arrange bucks’ night with groomsmen ❑ Organise gifts for attendants

11-5 MONTHS ❑ Confirm celebrant organises marriage contract (if not apply for one, by law you must organise ‘notification of intention to marry’ at least one month and one day prior to your wedding — full birth certificates are required) ❑ Choose ushers and people to do readings at ceremony ❑ Choose master of ceremony (MC) and people to make speeches at reception ❑ Select wedding rings

1 MONTH – 2 WEEKS

Bride: ❑ Order bridesmaids’ dresses ❑ Start looking for accessories and lingerie ❑ Start organising ‘beauty plan’: Regular hair and beauty treatments

Confirm details for the following: ❑ Reception ❑ Caterer ❑ Florist ❑ Music for ceremony ❑ Entertainment for reception ❑ Videographer ❑ Photographer ❑ Cars ❑ Cake ❑ Celebrant ❑ Bridal suite ❑ Site of ceremony ❑ Priest or minister ❑ Guests’ transport ❑ Have a make-up trial

Groom: ❑ Groom and groomsmen should be measured for suits The following should be confirmed: ❑ Music for ceremony ❑ Videographer ❑ Guest list ❑ Hairdressers and beautician ❑ Entertainment for reception ❑ Honeymoon arrangements ❑ Passports and travel insurance ❑ Florist ❑ Photographer ❑ Wedding cars ❑ Wedding cake ❑ Make-up artist ❑ Stationery 72

❑ Hold wedding rehearsal ❑ Confirm guest list ❑ Produce place cards for reception ❑ Give reception and/caterers final numbers and table seating ❑ Collect wedding rings ❑ Collect tickets, passport, travellers cheques etc for honeymoon ❑ Organise a mutual friend who is not attending the wedding to ‘house sit’

Make sure you have: ❑ Ring pillow ❑ Pew/seat decorations ❑ Guest book and pen, cake cutter ❑ Toasting glasses, table decorations ❑ Bonbonniere

GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013

Bride: ❑ Final fitting / pick up all dresses and accessories ❑ Organise a ‘bridal back-up kit’ with spare lipstick, safety pins, cosmetics, tissues, stockings, headache tablets, mints etc ❑ Organise a special gift for your groom ❑ Change name on all documents if you are adopting your partner’s name Groom: ❑ Final tuxedo/suit fittings ❑ Organise a special gift for your bride Make sure someone is in charge of: ❑ Guest book ❑ Keeping top of cake ❑ Collecting the gifts ❑ Bringing overnight bags to reception ❑ Returning suits/tuxedos ❑ Recording each gift and who it was from ❑ Collecting anything left behind at ceremony and reception Bride: ❑ Have a manicure, pedicure and facial ❑ Confirm hair and make-up times for the wedding day ❑ Pack for honeymoon ❑ Pack a small bag for wedding night ❑ Organise a light breakfast, lunch and refreshments for the wedding day ❑ Make sure you have a spare camera to take ‘morning shots’ ❑ Make sure bride and bridesmaids have robes or button up shirts for hair and make-up Groom: ❑ Collect suits/tuxedos at least two days before wedding, make sure groom and groomsmen all try on their suits with shoes in case of incorrect sizing ❑ Pack small bag for wedding night ❑ Pack for honeymoon ❑ Collect honeymoon tickets ❑ Have haircuts ❑ Organise drinks for bridal party during photos 1 day to go: ❑ Collect wedding cake and take to reception (if not being delivered) ❑ Drop off seating plan and place cards, decorations, bonbonniere and guest book etc ❑ Organise final payment for services — allocate someone to make the payments on the wedding day eg: parents, family, best man

budget

planner

Description

Quote

Deposit paid

Total paid

Description

Ceremony

Music

Church/other venue Celebrant Marriage documentation

Ceremony Reception

Reception Venue fee Drinks Catering Wedding cake

Flowers and decorations Ceremony flowers Bride bouquet Throw-away bouquet Bridesmaids’ bouquets Groom and groomsmen Other family members Reception decorations

Quote

Deposit paid

Total paid

Hair and beauty Bride Hair Make-up Spray tan Nails Bridesmaids Hair Make-up

Jewellery and accessories Wedding rings Bride Bridesmaids Groom Groomsmen

Clothing Bride Gown Hair piece/veil Shoes Lingerie/garter Groom Suit Shoes Bridesmaids Dresses Shoes Groomsmen Suits Shoes

Stationery Invitations Postage Ceremony booklets Reception stationery Place cards Bonbonniere tags Table menus Thankyou cards

Gifts Bonbonniere Bridesmaids’ gifts Groomsmen gifts Attendant gifts

Transportation Bridal transportation Wedding party transportation

Honeymoon First-night accommodation Airfares Honeymoon accommodation Package deal Spending money

Other

Photography/video Photographer Videographer GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013 73

Advertising directory

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Call now to discuss the availability of the perfect venue for your wedding service.

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Paradise Gardens

Suits that make you look and feel your best

Set on the banks of the Murray River, a beautiful country garden for your wedding day.

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1199 Perricoota Rd, Moama (10 mins out of Moama) Please call for an appointment to view, phone Sue 5483 6230 or 0429 836 230 http://sites.google.com/site/paradisegardens1/

Your Day, Your Way!

For advertising inquiries in GV Bride & Groom phone Jamie Gilbert on 5820 3184 or email jamie.gilbert@sheppnews.com.au

Ceremonies of Choice

with Jennifer Broadbent JP Authorised Marriage Celebrant

Available all areas for: • Traditional ceremonies • Commitment ceremonies • Renewal of vows • Elopements Celebrate your Day with a Personally Composed Ceremony

0411 055 900 or 58 25 33 57 www.ceremoniesofchoice.com.au

Issue 4 • October 2013

View all your favourite local magazines online

100% women only FASHION

BRIDE GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS

RaCE-day glamOuR jEans gEnius sChOOl fORmals

Profiles

Compassionate, dedicated and inspiring women

& GROOM

Issue 11. Autumn/Winter 2013. $4.95

CaREERs

Real weddings

Diversity at work

PLUS Health, beauty, fitness and more

Pink n o Ribb y Da -PagE 14 l sPECia

AGE OF REASON Insightful

Flattering dresses

inspiration for formal and informal occasions

How to choose the perfect gown for your shape

Jewellery themes

OCTOBER 2013 |

1

Simply go to www.sheppnews.com.au and look for the magazines link and start reading today.

Stay organised

Traditional, vintage and modern ideas

generations

Wedding and budget planners

Bridal beauty Tips for stress-free radiance

Plus

• Vows • Music • Bridesmaids’ duties

Dream designs

14 pAGES Of BRiDAL fAShiON

GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2012

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GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013

When looking your best is what matters the most

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Talisman offers exceptional quality at a realistic price. Come into store and let Paul help you to look your best whatever the occasion.

Visit now to secure the perfect suit for your needs.

74 McLennan St, Mooroopna Ph: (03) 5825 5170 ‘Talisman Menswear’

Talisman will transform the way you look GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013 75

The ProPosal The Proposal Ring, Will You Marry Me!

Blizzards introduces this new Proposal Ring engraved “Will You Marry Me?” A proposal ring that guards you against perhaps purchasing not the exact design, or wrong colour gold, or wrong shaped diamond.

These rings allow you to propose with the intention of announcing your engagement and then together select/design the ultimate choice of an engagement ring together.

This can keep the element of surprise and eliminate the disappointment of not producing the ring design she has been dreaming of for years, or even since she was a young girl!

Research shows that this Proposal Ring with the words engraved across the top, “Will you marry me?” will be kept as a keepsake forever.

Propose with a Diamond Proposing with a loose diamond has become quite popular with a lot of men at Blizzards Jewellers as they want to get the special event just right! Most girls give hints about the rings they like and don’t like, but it still can be a daunting task to choose an engagement ring on their own. What colour gold, a solitaire or a cluster design, high-set ring or low, claws or bezel setting, what style did she like?

However, most girls mention they like a certain cut of diamond, e.g. Round (Brilliant cut) Square (Princess), Emerald, Marquise, Oval etc, some mention occasionally, some very often!

Problem solved!! Blizzards can supply or import your special diamond that will suit your budget in the shape of her dreams, presented in a clear-front ring box, then together the couple can come into Blizzards, choose a style they like, or design their own ring to suit her diamond. The diamond her fiancé had the thoughtfulness to choose for his wife-to-be, who will always love her diamond and her engagement ring from this day forth!

You will not find Blizzards’ designs in a neighbouring store, because Blizzards are as individual as you!

Harris Scarfe Plaza, Maude St Mall, Shepparton. Ph: (03) 5831 4677

www.blizzardsjewellers.com.au 76

GOULBURN AND MURRAY VALLEYS BRIDE & GROOM | NOVEMBER 2013