Natasha Pavez | Complete Portfolio

NATASHA PAVEZ P O R T F O L I O

105 Pearces Creek Road Alstonville, NSW, Australia 2477 t: 0401 953 172 | e: tash.pavez@gmail.com | w: tashpavez.wordpress.com

CONTENTS Queensland Brides Print Online

1 41

Queensland Homes Print Online

57 107

Holidays for Couples Online

119

Great Destination Weddings Print Online

123 130

Polka Dot Bride Online

132

yum. Gluten Free Magazine Print

140

Resume

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P R I N T

page 1

BABY GOT

BACK! The best in wedding fashion is right behind you. For the brides who are sweet on a gown that’s all about that back, there’s a dress waiting to be discovered...

Anna Campbell ‘Adelaide’ gown, from the Spirit Collection. annacampbell.com.au

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Queensland Brides Spring 2015 // fashion feature with advertisers and international designers

fashion forward Enzoani ‘Joanna’ gown, exclusively from White Lily Couture. whitelilycouture.com.au

BHLDN ‘Winnie’ gown. bhldn.com Karen Willis Holmes ‘Josie’ gown, from the KWH by Karen Willis Holmes collection. karenwillisholmes.com

Watters Bridal ‘Aziza’ gown, available at BellaDonna Bridal. belladonnagowns.com.au, wendymakin.com Jack Sullivan ‘Victoria’ gown. jacksullivanbridal.com

QB

loves page 3

Queensland Brides Winter 15 // fashion feature with advertisers and international designers

SLIP INTO Sleeves Say hello to a winter wedding with a gown that embraces the best of the season.

Long or short, a sleeve adds a plenty of femininity and cool-weather style. With these gowns on your side, your bridal fashion will certainly be on point.

Monique Lhuillier ‘Autumn’ gown, from the Fall/Winter 2015 Collection. moniquelhuillier.com

Paddington Weddings gown. paddingtonweddings.com.au

Karen Willis Holmes ‘Tyler’ lace overlay, from the Wild Hearts Collection. karenwillisholmes.com

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Augusta Jones ‘Jo’ gown, from White Lily Couture. whitelilycouture.com.au

Queensland Brides Winter 2015 // informative seasonal flower feature

floral fantasies

Pick of the Bunch:

Proteas THESE GIANT BLOOMS – IN WHATEVER COLOUR YOU CHOOSE – ARE ENCHANTING, ROMANTIC AND A LITTLE BIT QUIRKY, ALL AT ONCE.

Wedding of Jessica and Thomas Photo: Feather and Stone

WORDS: NATASHA PAVEZ

If you're looking for a show-stopping blossom, proteas are an on-trend pick we're absolutely loving. Originally hailing from South Africa, the proteacae family actually hosts a variety of flowers, each as stunning as the next (you have this family to thank for some of our favourite native flora). The protea itself is a bloom of beauty; hardy, long-lasting, vibrant and utterly unique, they're a perfect pick for the modern bride.

IN BLOOM

Brides, you're in luck – proteas are available nearly all year round, flowering from autumn to spring. If you're tying the knot during summer, don't despair! As florists are besotted with these florals, many are able to source blooms especially cultivated for the warmer months. It never hurts to ask, and you could end up with the arrangement of your dreams.

PALETTE

You'll find protea petals in romantic pinks, creams and reds. If you're lucky, your florist may find other colours to suit your wedding palette, like a sunny bright yellow.

You may even get your hands on moody, black-tipped blossoms for an edgy wedding feel.

STYLE NOTES

As proteas are equally alluring in bouquets and centrepieces alike, you're spoiled for choice. Use them with greenery for an arrangement that's striking in its simplicity, or try an arrangement featuring a variety of smaller florals in similar shades for a soft, luscious look.

Proteas pair well with a variety of fabrics, whether it's rustic hessian or a romantic silk ribbon. Our style pick?

Use them in a luxe statement bouquet – the more blooms, the better!

Milque Photography and Films

Wedding of Cara & Nick Photo: Justin Ma

FLORAL FACTS WHAT:

Proteas

WHEN:

Autumn, Winter and Spring

WHERE:

Sun-filled locales worldwide

COLOURS:

Predominately pinks, creams and reds

PERFECT FOR:

Rustic, garden and urban weddings

queenslandbrides.com.au

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Queensland Brides Winter 2015 // flower pictorial

floral fantasies LIGHTS AND DARKS

A dramatic design may not be your thing, so try arranging a couple of rich blossoms amongst some bride-white blooms.

Stewart Ross Photography Florals: Bouquet Boutique

Wedding of Anna-Lyse and Simon Milque Photography & Films Florals: Always Fabulous Flowers

Heart of Darkness WINTER IS THE PERFECT TIME FOR DARK AND MOODY FLORALS, SETTING THE SCENE FOR A MODERN, ROMANTIC AFFAIR.

Photo and jewels: Samantha Wills

IN THE DEEP

Mix it up with a variety of colours, all in lush deep tones. If you're worried about it looking too hue-heavy, add a couple of slightly lighter blooms in the same colour family.

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Wedding of Lisa and Reece Carly Brown Photography

WILD GREENERY

Don't think it's just your flowers that can embrace the dark side. With lush, tangled foliage calling the shots in your bouquet, moody flowers will look right at home.

Wedding of Jade and Reece Photo: Nick Kuhn Florals: Artificial Floral Boutique

ROSE RED

A classic, passionate bouquet option, deep red roses evoke all the love and simplicity of romances from years gone by.

Queensland Brides Winter 2015 // flower pictorial

MAKE A Statement BIG BLOOMS,YOU'RE BEAUTIFUL. DRAW EVERY EYE WITH A STATEMENT BOUQUET, TAKING YOUR HUMBLE FLORAL ARRANGEMENT TO NEXT-LEVEL FAB.

Milque Photography and Films

Milque Photography and Films

Go big or go home, right? Utilising large-scale blossoms is perfect in a statement bouquet.

A variety of blooms are key to achieving a sublime statement bouquet. Pair the classic (like roses) with the modern (think proteas), and finish the look off with wispy greens.

Plenty of colour creates a fun, happy bouquet, striking in size and in hue.

Loosely-arranged florals, en masse, are simply divine, while creeping tendrils of greenery add to this bouquet's impact.

Milque Photography and Films

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Wedding of Katelyn and Alexander Rebecca Williams Photography

queenslandbrides.com.au

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Queensland Brides Winter 2015 // flower pictorial

BLOOMING

Marvellous We love our bridal bouquets, but we're absolutely smitten with the florals adorning the other members of the bridal party. We've found our favourite flower girls, bridesmaids and even a groomsman (or four) to inspire.

Wedding of Cassie & Sam Janneke Storm Photography

Wedding of Josh & Tyleah Brooke Adams Photography

Wedding of Louise & Graham Photo: Nouvel Amour Wedding of Siobhan & Craig Milque Photography and Films

• Get a photo of your girls (or guys) with their blooms, all together in their finery. It’s a gorgeous memento of the big day that you – and they – will cherish forever.

• Think about your bridesmaids’ blooms – you don’t want all those pretties being crushed (or forgotten!) at the reception.

Consider providing a vase for each bouquet, which will double as a lovely display on the bridal table.

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Wedding of Lilliana & James Christina Childs Photography

queenslandbrides.com.au

Queensland Brides Winter 2015 // honeymoon editorial

ONCE UPON A

Honeymoon Because the wedding isn't the only thing you're looking forward to, right?

WORDS: NATASHA PAVEZ

1. The honeymoon of your dreams out of reach? Try a honeymoon registry. Rather than guests contributing money to a generic honeymoon fund, they can instead buy you and your partner an 'experience' – one which you've chosen yourself. We love Travel Registry – it allows you to create a bespoke registry in a fabulously easy way. travelregistry.com.au

2. If your ideal honeymoon isn't built for two, you might be thinking about a buddymoon, like Alica Keys and hubby Swizz Beatz.

Take your friends along on a holiday that you'll all enjoy, with memories both romantic and fun-filled awaiting. It's the perfect idea if you've got guests arriving from afar for your big day.

3. So you and your partner can't agree on a destination?

Don't fret, just indulge in a honeymoon mashup!

Spend some time in two

totally different locales for a honeymoon experience that's as unique as the pair of you.

4. We're seeing more and more couples revealing their humanitarian side on their honeymoon – hello, voluntourism. Plenty of locations around the world will allow you and your partner to aid in a community, while learning about the region you're in and the people you're with. (Psst, the RitzCarlton offers Give Back Getaways in America if you're interested.)

5. You missed the 'traditional' honeymoon, but that doesn't mean you're resigned to a honeymoonless existence. Organise a getaway for two, where you'll rediscover all the love from your big day.

We especially love when couples choose to take this honeymoon on a milestone anniversary.

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Queensland Brides Winter 2015 // real wedding editorial

your weddings

Dora & Tim It’s the first of its theme we’ve ever come across at QB – Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles meets vintage quirk! Dora Austen and Tim Smith made the marriage of themes work so beautifully, we were smitten. Not only was their day full of romantic styling and retro charm, there was a definite fun vibe in the air. The couple planned their wedding while apart – the groom was deployed to Afghanistan and helped his bride-to-be via Skype. We do so love a groom who’s committed to planning the big day! date: 15 August 2014 location: Cedar Creek Estate Vineyard and Winery, Mt Tamborine first dance song: Sweet Disposition,The Temper Trap gown: Justin Alexander flowers: Veronica Jo Flowers photography: Billeta Wood Photography cake: Black Epicure

What was the most special memory from the day?

Listening to the introduction of our first dance song and getting ready to do our organised dance (the foxtrot). We stuffed up the steps so completely that Tim started twerking to save the dance.

Special thanks to…

Our photographer, Billeta. She was honestly the most wonderful and warm person we could have had to capture our wedding day.

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Queensland Brides Winter 2015 // real wedding editorial

your weddings

Tyleah & Josh Relaxed elegance was the order of the day for Tyleah and Josh, and what better theme for a Gold Coast wedding? The pair exchanged vows at the gorgeous Ecostudio Fellini, surrounded by their friends and family – all of whom contributed to the big day in some way. (Our favourite part?

The bride’s divine convertible gown, which was a bit of a surprise for her groom!) date: 06 September 2014 location: Ecostudio Fellini first dance song: Without You, Keith Urban gown: When Freddie Met Lilly flowers: Elyssium Blooms photography: Brooke Adams Photography rings: Xennox Diamonds

Why did you choose Ecostudio Fellini for your wedding?

We had our heart set on the Gold Coast Hinterland.

We were initially going to view another venue, but saw Ecostudio Fellini on the way there. As soon as we looked at it, we knew it was perfect for us.

Bride’s styling notes We wanted something simple and classic with bursts of colour throughout. Our main aim was to create a relaxed environment for our guests.

Read more and share your wedding at www.queenslandbrides.com.au

What was the funniest moment of the day?

Josh's reaction when he realised I had taken my skirt off from the ceremony and had another dress on underneath!

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Queensland Brides Winter 2015 // real wedding editorial

your weddings

Aleisha & Simon This bride and groom seriously understand style – did you see Aleisha’s Maggie Sottero gown? Divine! And they’re also a couple who understand the important things in life, choosing a day that was all about fun-filled, sentimental moments, handmade touches and cherished friends and family. Aleisha and Simon, you win the gorgeous wedding award. date: 18 October 2014 location: Couple’s home, Boonah theme: Eclectic and fun first dance song: Thinking Out Loud, Ed Sheeran gown: Maggie Sottero groom’s suit: Roger David photographer: Jess Marks

What was the most special memory of the day?

Our first dance was magical… some clever person had found the leftover confetti and while we were dancing they threw if off the verandah over us.

Read more and share your wedding at www.queenslandbrides.com.au

Why did you choose to have your wedding at home?

Our home is our most favourite place on earth – what better way to add to the memories than to have our wedding there?

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Queensland Brides Winter 2015 // real wedding editorial

Stephanie & Nathan It was all about island elegance for Stephanie and Nathan. A small, intimate wedding on Hamilton Island was simply magical, while the bride’s luxurious Karen Willis Holmes gown certainly caught our eye with its fun yet elegant feel.

Surrounded by the ones they love – all whom travelled the distance to celebrate with the pair – it was a day these newlyweds will never forget. date: 25 October 2014 number of guests: 47 location: Hamilton Island first dance song: Kiss Me, Ed Sheeran gown: Karen Willis Holmes flowers: Floral Collections coordinator: Hamilton Island Weddings photography: Trent Daft honeymoon: qualia

Tell us about the proposal?

Nathan proposed on Hamilton Island as we have always enjoyed travelling to the island for holidays. He took me up to One Tree Hill one evening, got down on one knee, and presented me with a beautiful ring.

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THE Golden AGE

What's classic, glamorous and magical with a unique edge? Hollywood glamour, of course. We take a look at a decadent shoot that would have Grace Kelly swooning.

ON SET

With its classic preparation rooms, traditional bar area, and rolling green hills all around, Hillstone St Lucia was the perfect setting for an old Hollywood wedding.

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Queensland Brides Winter 2015 // bridal styling shoot editorial

style it up BEAUTIFUL DREAMERS

A bold red lip sets the tone for a sophisticated affair, paired with dark smoky eyes to create a look that's a favourite with Hollywood's darlings. The Valentina gown by When Freddie Met Lilly is a red carpet winner – its deep V neckline complements a high split, adding edge to the feminine vintage lace.

DEAR DARLING

Glitter and classic black take centre stage for stationery, while Academy Award gold, timber and crystal chandeliers seem straight from the silver screen.

LET THEM EAT CAKE

The four-tier showstopper is a marriage of old-world charm and modern splendour, featuring gold leaf and soft pink to exude a whirl of romance, glamour and elegance.

ROLL FILM

The starlets behind the shoot describe their creative vision.

“The Hollywood Glamour theme came out of creating a wedding that many brides ultimately are after the look of, while not necessarily being a current trend. We really wanted to play on this idea and showcase something that is classy and glamorous, but with a uniquely appealing edge.”

– Amanda, Adorn Event Hire “I wanted to capture the bride and groom with modern appeal, slightly reminiscent of movie-star quality. I also wanted to showcase the love story of our bride and groom and their special moments in the striking beauty of this Hollywood setting.”

– Amanda Crocetti, We Are Twine See more online at queenslandbrides.com.au

THE DREAM TEAM: Location: Hillstone St Lucia Photographer: We Are Twine Hair & Makeup: VIP Bridal Beauty Styling & Furniture Hire: Moments in Vintage Dress & Suit Designer: When Freddie Met Lilly Charger Plates, Runners & Candles: Adorn Event Hire Gold Cutlery: Gold Wedding Hire Flowers: Brisbane Market Flowers Crystal glassware & napkins: Fancy Tea Cake: Deliberately Delicious Stationery: Invitation Designs by Eliza Celebrant: Samantha Townend Talent: Phoebe Judd & Keifer Miller

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Love WE

With plenty of inspiration floating around the wedding-sphere, the QB team shares their favourite ideas for the perfect big day.

Wedding of Jules & Robbie, Studio Impressions Photography

Wedding of Hannah & Andrew, Peppermint Lane Photography

Oversized balloons have my vote for a cute wedding idea. Judging by this happy bridesmaid, they certainly bring out the funloving kid within and look fab to boot!

Natasha, Copy Editor

Look no further than a party under the stars for a perfect reception idea. Twinkling lights and hints of greenery add the finishing touches to really make sure your day is nothing but magical!

Lauren, Art Director

This romantic scene really floats my boat. The bounty of blooms adds a sense of occasion to the intimate ‘just the two of us’ feel.

Pelizzari Photography Styling & Florals: Stylised Hair & Makeup: Jacqueline Preim Gown: George Wu

Glitter and Cha mpagne – I couldn't think of a better combination to celebrate married life!

Chloe, Digital Content Producer Wedding of Katelyn & Alexander, Rebecca Williams Photography

Nicole, Editor

queenslandbrides.com.au

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Queensland Brides Winter 2015 // ‘we love’ editorial feature - favourite staff wedding ideas

the big event

Why should brides have all the fun?

I absolutely adore this picture from Antonia and Emanuel’s wedding.

This is a fantastic example of photography for the groom and his men– light hearted and fun!

Siobhan, Production Assistant

Wedding of Kaitlyn & Callum, Jess Jackson Photographer

Wedding of Antonia & Emanuel, Studio 60 Photography

I love the fresh simplicity of this flower arrangement, and it works beautifully with the rustic table.

Pa m, Production Manager I love seeing couples inject their personality into their big day. These little gold dinos from Kaitlyn and Callum’s wedding take the cake for me!

Photography: Playback Studios Flowers: Ginger Lily & Rose

Nichola, Digital Content Producer

I love this idea of blindfolding the groom before the wedding so that the bride and groom can share a special moment together before the ceremony - a perfect opportunity to straighten his tie and give him one last pre-wed smooch!

Z oe, Production Account Manager Wedding of Jurene & Mitchell, Rezolution Photography

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Queensland Brides Autumn 2015 // cake pictorial

Timeless

Romance Paying homage to a bygone age, these sweet creations are a taste of love no matter the decade.

Studio Impressions Photography

Wedding of Melanie and Mitchell Cake: Brisbane Wedding Cakes Cassandra Ladru Photography Wedding of Nicole and Dayne Cake: Cake Designs Calli B Photography

Wedding of Sarah and Joel Cake: Sunny Girl Cakes White Images Photography

Sterling Studios

PRETTY IN PINK

Soft, subdued hues are just the ticket for a cake that’s as romantic as it is classic. Think baby pink paired with a darling lace motif, or add some 1920s glamour with metallic lace edging. Pearls more your thing?

Add a border along your cake for an opulent finish.

Wedding of Christie and Travis Cake: Angela Clark Milque Photography and Films

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Wedding of Corinne and Andrew Cake: Deliberately Delicious Milque Photography and Films

Queensland Brides Autumn 2015 // cake pictorial

sweet treats Cake made by the groom!

Wedding of Rachel and Lai Cake: Farm Gate Cheese Studio Impressions Photography

Wedding of Jessica and Michael Peppermint Lane Photography

Modern

Love

Wedding of Cassey and Mark Cake: Sweet Ideas Airlie Beach Brooke Miles Photography

Wedding of Nikki and Peter Cake: Frosted Indulgence Porfyri Photography

If a contemporary cake is more your style, these up-to-the-minute designs will have you swooning.

SIMPLY STYLISH

A modern cake is all about keeping it simple – a delicious cake is a showstopper in its own right! Naked cakes are one of our favourite trends, topped with festoons of blossoms. A ‘cheese cake’ makes a quirky dessert for couples who don’t have a sweeth tooth. Or, for the ultimate in modern luxe, a metallic finish. But keep it simple – that glitz will catch your eye all night.

Wedding of Anna-Lyse and Simon Cake: Hilda Hill Milque Photography and Films

queenslandbrides.com.au

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Queensland Brides Autumn 2015 // cake pictorial

Love ON TOP

PUT THE FINISHING TOUCHES ON YOUR SWEET CREATION WITH A CAKE TOPPER. THE OPTIONS ARE ENDLESS FOR A DESIGN THAT'S UTTERLY YOU. WORDS: NATASHA PAVEZ

Wedding of Amy and Steven Focus Films

Wedding of Pum and Nate Lace and Bowties

Wedding of Sarah and Rob Photo: Karena Nuttall

WORDS

Trending in cake land (just take a look at Etsy if you don't believe us), gorgeous words atop a delicious cake finish your look off to perfection.

Wedding of Chris & Natalie Porfyri Photography

FLORALS

FRUIT

Take a cue from florals and go the natural route – complete your cake with seasonal fresh fruit, artfully arranged for max impact.

Wedding of Katrina and Nick Marty Pouwelse Photography

Cascading blooms are one of our favourite cake finishes. Nothing says romance like petals aplenty!

COUPLES

Whether you choose a kissing duo or a pair of lovebirds, couples on top of a cake are a classic wedding-day touch.

Vellum Studios

queenslandbrides.com.au

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Queensland Brides Autumn 2015 // cake pictorial

CUT IT UP You probably haven't thought about cutting the cake – after all, there are plenty of other things to focus on first! QB's here to help with a handy guide of how to do it all…

When to cut At the reception, of course! Traditionally, the cake is cut between the speeches and first dance, though nowadays the cake is cut towards the end of the night or served as a dessert.

You'll be relaxed and happy (maybe with a few glasses of bubbly in you!), so your photos will be full of love and smiles.

How to cut The bride should stand to the side of the cake, holding the cake, while her groom stands behind her to one side with his hands over hers.

Finishing Touches

Cake by Helen's Designer Cakes

Add a sentimental touch to your cake knife – think ribbons, a flower on the handle or a personalised set (weddingglasses. com.au has a great selection). Alternatively consider using a family heirloom. It's a special addition that makes the moment so much more memorable.

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Queensland Brides Autumn 2015 // cake pictorial

Wedding of Jenny and James Studio Impressions Photography

TWIST ON

TRADITION We all know the tradition – save the top tier of your wedding cake for a scrumptious feast on your first anniversary, or at the christening of your first child. However, with the huge range of flavours available nowadays, this isn't completely feasible. Unless you have a well-made fruit cake, your once-yummy cake will probably take on some freezer burn and may even pick up the taste of things stored in your freezer.

The solution? Go back to your cake maker and request a mini version of your top layer for your anniversary celebrations. That way, you'll be certain of a delicious cake while honouring your wedding day and tradition in a modern, romantic way.

West com.au u

Y AFFAIR

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P.S. We also love the idea of a selection of cupcakes in your wedding cake's flavour and design as an anniversary treat. Go on – eat up!

Queensland Brides Autumn 2015 // cake pictorial

TASTE TEST

As self-confessed cake lovers, the QB team knows a thing or two about the tastiest cakes around. Check out our favourite flavour combos, plus some delicious ideas from our darling sweet mavens – but don't blame us if your sweet tooth begs to be satisfied…

Helen’s picks

Julie’s picks

Helen’s Designer Cakes

Julie Whitehead Cakes & Chocolate

Dream Cakes and Creations

• Cake: Orange and poppy seed Filling: White chocolate ganache Finish: Naked – the poppy seeds are all the decoration you need!

• Cake: Hazelnut truffle Filling: Milk chocolate and Frangelico ganache Finish: White chocolate ganache

• Cake: Dark chocolate, Amaretto and almond fudge Filling: Salted caramel ganache Finish: Dark chocolate ganache under fondant

• Cake: Coffee and walnut Filling & Finish: Dark chocolate ganache • Cake: Lemon and lime white chocolate mud Filling: White chocolate ganache Finish: Fondant

• Cake: Vanilla bean almond Filling: Raspberry confiture and white chocolate ganache Finish: White chocolate and cream cheese icing • Cake: Chocolate almond truffle Filling: Raspberry confiture Finish: Dark chocolate ganache with raspberry confiture, covered in dark chocolate ganache

QB’s fave picks • Cake: Cherry Ripe Filling: Praline buttercream Finish: Swiss meringue buttercream • Cake: Brown sugar fig meringue Filling: Toblerone ganache Finish: American frosting

Joanne’s picks

• Cake: Gluten-free vanilla and sour cherry Filling & Finish: Vanilla Italian meringue buttercream

Top Tip • Cake: Red velvet Filling & Finish: Cream cheese frosting • Cake: Champagne Filling: Strawberry buttercream Finish: Champagne buttercream

“Make your cake romantic by using unique cake stands that capture your interests,” says Joanne of Dream Cakes and Creations. “An old travel chest, pillar, pile of antique books or something in stainless steel or glass can all add to the charm.”

Sweet Glossary Ganache: A sweet, rich chocolate made with cream, somewhere between mousse and fudge.

Fondant: A sweet, elastic icing made of sugar, corn syrup and gelatine, giving it a smooth finish.

Confiture: Preserved or candied fruit, like jam.

Helen’s Designer Cakes, Sassaffair Events, Sophie Baker Photography

Praline: A smooth, sweet filling made by boiling nuts in sugar and grinding the mix.

Pastry cream: A delicate milk and egg-based filling.

Marzipan: A paste made of almonds, sugar and egg white, mainly used to make edible flowers.

Champagne cake: A light, frothy cake filled with Bavarian cream and flavoured with bubbly.

American buttercream: A combination of butter, icing sugar, vanilla and milk – your standard icing.

Swiss Meringue buttercream: A meringuebased icing with butter whipped through, prepped over a bain-marie.

Italian Meringue buttercream: A meringuebased icing with butter whipped through, prepped using a sugar syrup and already-whipped eggs.

Naked cake: A pared-down design that has no buttercream or fondant to hide those inner layers.

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Queensland Brides Autumn 2015 // advertiser interview

Ever wondered what makes a wedding planner tick?

QB sits down with Victoria Park’s fab senior wedding planner, Victoria Evison, for the inside scoop.

Tell us about yourself – why did you become wedding planner?

The first time I worked on a wedding, I just knew. I love being part of such a special day for couples!

Wedded Bliss

A PERFECTLY PLANNED WEDDING WITH DELICIOUS FOOD TO TOP IT OFF – DIVINE, DON’T YOU THINK? QB SITS DOWN WITH THE EXPERTS FROM ONE OF BRISBANE’S MOST POPULAR VENUES,VICTORIA PARK.

With over 25 years of experience working alongside the best chefs in Brisbane and London, Jason Peppler – Victoria Park’s executive chef – knows all about delicious feasts, especially for a pair of newlyweds.

Tell us – why is food so critical to a successful reception?

Most people think theming elements or entertainment are the most important parts of a wedding, and they certainly make a big impact! But a food element is central to everything at a reception, and to make the entire day a success, a delicious food experience is paramount.

For a wedding venue, everything has to be about customer experience – consistently delivering high-quality service comes from having a great team and great customers, which we at Victoria Park are lucky to have.

What sort of menu do you have, and what's the most popular dish at receptions?

Our wedding menu is largely classic European with a bit of a modern twist.

Most couples choose the chicken and beef dishes – though who knows if it's because that's the 'safe' option! However, all of our dishes are good, honest food, focusing on delectable flavours.

And your personal favourite?

It would have to be the twice-cooked Grimaud duck. It's an interesting meat, and I love French and classical cooking techniques. It's an example of classic cooking with a focus on flavour.

What's one of your favourite sentimental moments at Victoria Park Weddings?

This happened just the other day! A groom arrived quite early because he was nervous. I went to meet him, but he was so emotional he needed 10 minutes alone. Someone had called ahead to let him know the bride was on her way, and he was so excited that he was about to marry the woman of his dreams.

How do you create impact on a small budget?

Here at Victoria Park, we create impact with our packages – so much is included in the way of styling extras! Once you have the basic style in place, it can be enhanced even further without spending too much. Floral centrepieces are beautiful, but you can also get incredible impact with candlelight and simple greenery in bottles.

What's your favourite decorating scheme at the moment?

Right now, I'm in love with seasonal field flowers and pastel colours. Fashion can change so quickly, though, so I may just change my mind next month!

What would be in your wedding day survival kit to help a stressed-out couple?

A reliable wedding planner is going to be the couple's best asset leading into the big day. Every little part of the wedding is documented in a really detailed but easy-to-read run sheet. Just seeing and knowing how much care we have taken to give them the experience they want is a major survival tool.

Do you find wedding guests stay at your venue between the ceremony and the reception?

When we have both the ceremony and reception here, we definitely see guests taking advantage of all our facilities. We have The Orchard marquee, which is a great private reception space for casual gatherings.

We offer discounts on putt-putt and the driving range for our wedding guests, and the Bar & Bistro is a great place to relax and socialise.

Where can newlyweds take some romantic shots?

The bridal party is spoiled for choice! We actually provide a 'get-to map' of the amazing on-site photography locations. Sometimes we even pack the bridal party up in golf carts with a picnic. They cruise around the sites, photographer in tow.

What advice would you give to any bride before they start planning the big day?

Call your ceremony and reception venue before you pick your date – you don't want to be disappointed if your date isn't available. It's also great to have a budget and number of guests in mind before planning anything.

queenslandbrides.com.au

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Queensland Brides Autumn 2015 // fashion feature

SHOEAnatomy In the right pair of shoes, you can conquer the world… though if you’re not up on what’s what in shoe land, you may be a teeny bit confused at what’s on offer. QB sifts through the jargon in our style guide just for shoes.

WORDS: NATASHA PAVEZ

Wedding of Tanya and Rocco Christine Jade Photography

Wedding of Hannah and Andrew Peppermint Lane Photography

FOR THE LADIES

FOR THE MEN

If your veins aren’t filled with Louboutin red, browsing the shoe section at your favourite department store may leave you more befuddled than bewitched.

On your wedding day, it’s important to look like the gentleman you are – sharp, stylish and downright suave.

HEEL Stiletto: Perpetually sexy, this heel is at least 5cm high and as skinny as they come.

Kitten: A tiny heel – generally three to four centimetres high at the max.

Chunky: A heel that follows the same width the whole way through.

Cone: A thick heel that tapers to a thinner end, kind of like an ice cream cone.

Wedge: A heel that fills the entire space under the arch and heel of your foot.

TOE Almond toe: Not round or pointed, this toe shape is just in the middle with an elongated shape.

Pointed toe: As the name suggests, the toe narrows right down to a dramatic point.

Round toe: Gently curving round your toe, as in a ballet flat. A sweet, playful wedding shoe option!

Peep toe: An almond toe shoe with the tip partially cut away, revealing a hint of toe.

Open toe: Rounded or almond toe shoes with the entire tip cut away, revealing all your toes.

STRAPS Mary Jane: A shoe with a low strap running across the front of your foot.

T-Strap: 1920s style – a shoe with a strap running up your foot, towards your ankle.

Slingback: A backless shoe with a strap behind your heel or ankle.

Ankle Strap: A strap which wraps around your ankle.

Gladiators: Heels with multiple straps criss-crossing over your feet and ankles.

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SHOE Derby: A casual shoe which fits easily, featuring open lacing eyelet tabs.

Oxford: More formal than Derby shoes, constructed to look like one piece of leather with closed lacing eyelet tabs.

Loafer: A slip-on shoe with a flat heel, no fastenings and variety of toe and vamp styles.

Dress boot: Like an Oxford or Derby shoe, but with a longer shaft which covers the ankle.

Chelsea boot: Your typical workman’s boots – flat or heeled, laceless and with a stretchy side so your foot can slide on in.

TOE Chisel toe: A toe with angled sides and a straight edge, looking just like a chisel.

Round toe: Like the name says, it’s round – though some designs are very full and round, while others are more tapered.

Plain toe: A toe box with no decorative designs.

Cap toe: A shoe with an additional reinforced layer on the main toe.

Wing tip: A shoe with a reinforced layer on the toe with a distinctive ‘wing’ design, stretching along the sides of the foot with point in the middle of the layer.

Apron toe: A design which features a ‘strip’ of leather wrapping around the sides of the shoe, slightly covering the top of the toe box.

LACING Closed lacing: Where the eyelet tabs (quarters) are stitched underneath the top of the shoe (vamp), creating a sleek look.

Open lacing: Where the quarters are stitched on top of the vamp, adding flaps and a more casual fit.

BROGUING Decorative perforation and punching on a shoe, generally on a cap or wing tip toe.

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Queensland Brides Autumn 2015 // destination wedding feature

In the

TROPICS

Take a wedding-day adventure – a destination wedding in Tropical North Queensland might be just what you need.

Sterling Studios

Whether you’re relaxing on the Great Barrier Reef or surrounded by a rainforest’s towering emerald trees, there’s no denying that Tropical North Queensland holds a certain allure. It’s wild, it’s untamed, it’s adventurous and full of some of Queensland’s most exotic locales. And in the same instance, it’s also a romantic and intimate escape, adored by couples for its laid-back appeal and smorgasbord of world heritage sites.

If you’re considering a wedding in the tropics, you’ve certainly got our vote!

Get ready to exchange vows with the most stunning backdrop – and here are a few to consider.

Beachside Think of Tropical North Queensland, and what comes to mind? Crystal-clear waters, white sand, and palm tree fronds lazily waving in the wind. Okay, it’s a cliché – but it’s on your doorstep, so take advantage.

Islands and reefs are both on offer, including some of the finest on earth. The Great Barrier Reef is a picture-perfect setting for the biggest day of your life, or you can say I do on a powder-sand beach, be it in Cairns or Cape Tribulation (you’ve literally got miles and miles of shoreline for the choosing). And don’t miss the enchanting enclaves of Palm Cove and Port Douglas, where wining and dining is part of the luxe experience!

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Rainforest Birdsong all around, lush greenery as far as the eye can see… a rainforest wedding is certainly not a traditional option, yet it’s an oh-so-romantic option for couples who love the outdoors.

Some couples choose to marry at sunrise or sunset, hidden amongst the trees with their nearest and dearest in a magical, intimate ceremony. Some exchange their vows at a luxe forest-fringed retreat, indulging in five-star comfort with nature beckoning all the while. Whatever you decide to do, the tropics host the bespoke option for you.

Rural & Outback In Tropical North Queensland’s Gulf Savannah, you can pay homage to a traditional Australian icon. Think red dirt, stark blue skies with nary a cloud, endless green-stalk canefields, and tin-and-timber halls housing bevies of blooms – trust us, a wedding in Tropical North Queensland might be just the ticket.

Like real-life couple Melanie and Lee (check out their wedding on page 166!), the key to an outback wedding is rugged romance.

Take your wedding photos in farmland, and host your reception in a country hall.

A quaint chapel is your ceremony locale.

Use native blossoms and twirl around the dance floor as husband and wife as the stars shimmer above. It’s picturesque and a moment to cherish forever.

Take a moment or two, post-wedding, to check out these gorgeous wonders…

Ocean: We hardly need to say it – the Great Barrier Reef is a must-visit. Take a dive to glimpse some incredible ocean wildlife, take a tour on a glass-bottomed boat, and soak up the sunshine on the reef ’s sandy shores.

Rainforest: The Daintree region hosts some of Australia’s most famous rainforests, meeting the Great Barrier Reef with utterly striking views all around.

Explore the ancient forest and wander along the towering coastal cliffs, indulging your adventurous self with a zip-line trip through the rainforest canopy.

Outback: An outback sunset is like nothing you’ve ever experienced before. Pack a romantic picnic dinner (Champagne and chocolate dipped strawberries are a lush dessert option) and watch the sun melt into hues of amber and fiery red, before transforming into an inky blue sky with lashings of glittery stars.

Want to see it all? Take the Great Tropical Drive. It’s a 12-day trip with your loved one, taking in the best of the coast, forests and outback. queenslandholidays.com.au

Queensland Brides Autumn 2015 // destination wedding feature

Wedding of Erin and Brenten Focus Films and Photography

HELLO, Sunshine!

FOR A ROMANTIC LOCATION TO LOVE, LOOK NO FURTHER THAN THE SUNSHINE COAST AND HINTERLAND. WORDS: NATASHA PAVEZ

With its natural beauty and intoxicating atmosphere, it’s easy to see why the Sunshine Coast and Hinterland is a favourite destination for locals and tourists alike. Plenty of couples, whether they’re from the city or country, are choosing to tie the knot in this stunning locale.

So get hitched in the hinterland, or say I do on the coast…

THE ROMANCE OF THE REGION

Ideal for a destination wedding that’s just around the corner, the Sunshine Coast and Hinterland is a region where you'll get the best of both worlds. We all know the coast's famous beaches (we city girls in the QB office love stretching out on the luscious sun-drenched shores whenever we can!), but trek a little further inland and you'll reach mountains topped with towering trees, misty mornings and cascading waterfalls.

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THE COAST

Whether it’s Noosa or Caloundra, the Sunshine Coast’s endless stretch of beaches are the perfect backdrop for your romantic vows.

Get some sand between your toes and tie the knot on a secluded beachside cove, ideal for the couple who wants a casual affair with their nearest and dearest. Simple styling will let the romance of the day – and the picturesque surrounds – shine on.

Or for a high-class affair, there are plenty of restaurants and opulent hotels offering grand receptions and ceremonies. Don your designer gown, your highest heels, and brightest smile – the night is all about you and your sweetheart. And your reception feast will be utterly divine – menus are all about local cuisine used in fresh and inventive ways, tantalising your senses more and more.

Trust us – you'll fall in love with the Sunshine Coast in just one visit.

THE HINTERLAND

If you're a city chica, the dream might be to get away from it all – and when better to do it than on the happiest day of your life?

So pack your wedding dress and round up your loved ones for a hinterland escape. The Sunshine Coast Hinterland is, in a word, striking – shades of jade, moss and emerald meet Tiffany-blue skies, with a sense of peace all around. It's laid back, it's charming, and it's the antithesis to a city wedding in every sense.

In the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, you and your guests will definitely want to take a few days to indulge in everything the region has to offer. A boho-luxe wedding and reception is on the cards here – flower crowns, flowing fabrics, jars of greenery and plenty of love to go around.

The next day, revel in the tranquillity of your surrounds, exploring parklands and mountains with panoramic views across the valleys below. Maleny, Montville and Mapleton have a friendly village atmosphere that's hard to beat, especially when combined with some first-class food and wine.

A hinterland escape is blissful – where creature comforts and luxury meet, all resting in the lap of a romantic, unique landscape.

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To The Nines Show your body some love on your wedding day.

WORDS: NATASHA PAVEZ ILLUSTRATIONS: RAFAEL DE PEÑA

Whether you’re tall or small, curvy or petite, there’s nothing more satisfying than finding a dress that truly flatters your figure. QB sat down with star designer, Roz la Kelin, to chat about the perfect dress for your shape…

Athletic

Hourglass

Think broad shoulders and an even hip and bust measurement, with a not-so-defined waist. "Softening the athletic figure is the main aim," Roz explains. "You can give yourself the appearance of curves by cinching your waist through ruching, pleating or accessories such as belts." Avoid gowns which expose angular features, or add some interest to a sheath gown with lace or textured fabrics.

The bombshell figurine. You typically have a defined waist, with bust and hip measurements close to equal. "Make the most of your smallest feature – your waist," Roz advises. You're virtually spoiled for choice when it comes to your gown, but be sure to keep any design features toned down. "My suggestion would be to choose one or two of your favourite trends and showcase them," says Roz.

Your ideal gown: Sheath, ballgown Avoid: Dropped waists

Your ideal gown: Ballgown, mermaid Avoid: Empire waists

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Queensland Brides Summer 2014 // fashion feature

fashion forward TOP TIP

Petite

Choose your shapewear wisely! “We all know how important a solid foundation is to constructing anything,” Roz says. “When you feel supported, you’ll feel great, wear your gown with confidence and be a happy, beautiful bride.”

Any one of these body shapes could suit you, but you're pocket sized – what flatters a taller woman can sometimes overwhelm your frame. Choose middle-sized silhouettes, or add a bit of a boost to smaller silhouettes with embellished fabrics. Above all, consider your hemline. You don't want your lovely new skirt dragging as you walk!

Instead, make sure the fabric just touches the floor.

Not sure which shape you fit? Go for fit and flare.

It's balanced and emphasises all yo ur best features, suitin g every body shape.

Pear

Apple

Your hips are normally wider than your bust, with a defined waist to tie it all together. "Balance is important for this figure," says Roz. "Depending on the bride's fashion choice, it's either about camouflaging the lower body, or narrowing the lower body to balance with the bodice." Or, embrace your shape with a figure-hugging gown, complete with sultry low back.

Girls with a bit of softness around the tummy are generally in the appleshaped realm. "Most apple-shaped women have great legs, so choose styles that are slimmer in silhouette to emphasise this asset," says Roz. Adorn your waist with a glittery, jewelled waistband or fabric appliqué.

Choose fabrics that drape around the waist, wrapping around. Or, choose a silhouette which draws attention to your smallest point.

Your ideal gown: Empire waists, A-line Avoid: Sheath

Your ideal gown: Empire waists, A-line Avoid: Mermaid

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Queensland Brides Summer 2014 // bridal party feature

location location

Party TIME Having a hen's do or a buck's night is a great way to diffuse that pre-wedding stress which can get the best of us all!

Check out our favourite ways to party down in style.

WORDS: NATASHA PAVEZ

HEN'S

BUCKS

Pampering We all know it's hard to enjoy the big day if you're tense and stressed, so why not be pampered like a queen? Indulge in some luxe treatments at your local beauty hotspot and let your worries fade away.

Try Apollo Day Spa and Harbour Day Spa, who have treatments just for hens.

Brewery Tour Get the guys together for a tour of some of the country's best breweries. Various craft breweries offer look-sees for a creative take on the traditional pub crawl.

Art classes Culture with a risqué twist – for the artistic bride-to-be, a life drawing class is the way to go. Whatever your skill level, embrace your inner Picasso and come home with an artistic memento of your night out.

Murder Mystery If Sherlock Holmes has nothing on your sleuthing skills, try a real-life game of Cluedo. Warwick's Abbey of the Roses offers Murder Mystery Masquerade Dinners, perfect for hen's nights.

Cooking class With options suiting every tastebud, cooking classes are perfect for increasing your culinary repertoire. Choose a venue that's close to a variety of bars and clubs so the party doesn't have to end when the class does!

Dance lessons Love to dance but not a huge fan of nightclubs, or just want to learn a new way to move? A dance class is just for you.

Choose from 20s Charleston kicks, 60s go-go twists, or a sexy Burlesque routine.

V8 Race Car Experience Get behind the wheel of a V8 race car and take to the raceway like a speed demon, guided by experts. Queensland Raceways offers fully customisable drives if speed is your thing.

Wedding of Sharon and Chad, Sweet Emotions Photography

Nightclub touring Hit the clubs, Vegas-style – it's the only way to see the hottest bars and clubs! By booking into specialised tours, you and your friends can focus on having the time of your life. It's perfect for the partygoing buck.

Night Putt-Putt You may not be the next Tiger Woods, but that shouldn't stop you from having a great night out. A putt-putt game is a great way to entertain everyone.

Wedding of Brooke and Martin, Jack and Heath Photography

Corporate Box If the groom's a sporting fanatic, there's no better way to celebrate his final days as an unmarried man by taking him to a match. Don't do this by halves – book out a corporate box at a stadium.

Wedding of Danielle and Rohan, Andrew Rankin Photography

Trend we've spotted: Hucks Parties Yep, combined hens and bucks parties – they're a modern alternative that we love.

Not too sure what'll amuse both groups?

Check out our ideas below.

Theme park Everyone loves a bit of a thrill, and there's nothing more thrilling than conquering the big rides at a theme park. Suiting the tame and daredevils alike, hitting the Gold Coast's theme parks with a group of your friends is the best way to keep everyone entertained.

Music festival If you and your friends love the live music scene, it's time to face it on a grand scale.

Splendour in the Grass, Big Day Out and Bluesfest are popular choices, or try the many smaller, more niche options.

Cruising Queensland's crystal-clear waters rival those anywhere in the world, so enjoy the sights and company on a luxury catamaran. Hire a skipper for the ultimate experience – just sit back, Champagne in hand, and party on.

Glamping Hit the road with some of your favourite people before checking out your rustic-luxe accommodation – close to nature with all the comforts of home. Rainforests to coasts, deserts to mountains, glamping options are available all over.

Scavenging in the City Fancy yourself a treasure hunter? A scavenger hunt around your locale might be the perfect option for you and your friends. It's a fun way to get everyone together before the big day (and a bit of friendly competition never hurt!).

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Queensland Brides Summer 2014 // honeymoon feature

THE (MINI) Escape

What if taking a fully-blown honeymoon just can't be on the agenda? We take a look at minimoons, a growing trend in wedding land.

WORDS: NATASHA PAVEZ

Photo: Anson Smart

THE BASICS

A bit more petite than its big sister the honeymoon, a mini-moon has all the romance, relaxation and rejuvenation offered by a traditional honeymoon, popped into a manageable few days. Perhaps taking time off isn't feasible (whether it's thanks to endless work or little tots waiting at home), maybe your budget is a little thin, or maybe you want to catch up with interstate guests outside of your wedding’s busy schedule. Whatever the reason, a long weekend break is certainly popular! We're seeing more and more couples taking a mini-moon now, and their full length, more traditional honeymoon later.

NEED TO KNOW

As you plan your getaway, try to keep it close enough that you're not spending hours and hours on travel, be it via plane or car.

After all, now's the time to relax with your sweetheart, and we all know travel certainly

isn't relaxing! While this does mean an escape to Europe's out, you can experience a range of romantic indulgences right on your own doorstep. Check out Location Love below for some ideas if you're stuck!

lay of land and all its cultural delights. Maybe you and your partner are history buffs, avid readers, art lovers or nature children.

Whatever you choose, spend some time focusing on pure enjoyment.

Although mini-moons are certainly du jour, you may find that some of your favourite locations don't have packages tailored specifically for the occasion. Never fear! Book a romance package (most hotels and resorts offer this), and spend the rest of your minimoon tailoring your own escape.

Indulge: Raise your hand if you deserve a massage! Linger in a day spa with a romantic treatment for two, working away all those months of stress. QB's Digital Director, Nikki, suggests going all out with your treatment – follow up the deep massage and scrub with a night on the town, with a degustation menu at a local dining institution and some seriously stellar wines.

THINGS TO DO

Eat and drink: When better to indulge in some of the best food of your life? Pick a restaurant (or two) that you've always dreamed of frequenting, and make a point of enjoying a romantic dinner on your weekend away.

Art and culture: Wander hand-in-hand with your sweetheart around the location of your choice, familiarising yourself with the

Splurge: Take the opportunity to do at least one thing that you've never done before, even if you've been to the location a million times. A yacht ride, snorkelling, bridge climbing, hiking to a particular locale, hitting the skies in a hot air balloon… just make it a memorable experience for all the right reasons!

LOCATION LOVE

Our top locations for mini-moons. Go ahead and take your pick!

City Escape interstate to the bigger smokes, Sydney and Melbourne.

Sydney has all the glitz and glam a couple could want for, so book a suite in a hotel with exquisite views across the shimmering Sydney Harbour. Melbourne's cultural vibe has been beckoning couples for many a year, so spend some time exploring its many museums, parklands, and markets, plus all the foodie options your tastebuds could dream of.

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Country The sounds of birdsong and clean country air await – not to mention privacy! Meander into the hills with a hinterland getaway. The Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast Hinterlands are always popular, or you can wander further south and hide out in New South Wales’ Northern Rivers for a few days.

Bangalow, with its laid-back charm, is one of our favourite little towns.

Beach There's nothing we dream about more than getting away for long days filled with sunshine, surf and sand. Explore the coastline for the perfect seaside minimoon, or run away to one of our favourite locations, the Whitsundays. Low-key and lovely islands, like Stradbroke, Heron and Tangalooma, are also ideal. After spending a few days with sunkissed skin and sand between your toes, you may never want to leave.

International Okay, we're suckers for a bit of jet-setting, and can you blame us?

Take a short getaway to some islands closer to home. Fiji is a gorgeous mini-moon locale at only four hours away, while beautiful Vanuatu is less than three hours’ flight. Try exploring New Zealand’s north and south islands – at just over three hours away, it’s perfect for an international escape with next to no travel.

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Anna & Blake Anna and Blake’s romance has been an international affair right from the start. After meeting in London, Swedenborn Anna and Brisbane-born Blake fell in love… and, well, you know the rest! The couple chose Sweden for their big day, tying the knot in Anna’s hometown, Åtvidaberg, surrounded by their family and friends. The couple chose a soft, romantic theme perfectly suited to the gorgeous landscape around them, while plenty of personal touches reflected the love they share. QB loves the bride’s gorgeous Strictly Bridal gown – Anna was the lucky winner of our recent competition to win her gown and bridesmaids dresses. Congratulations (twice)! date: 05 July 2014 ceremony: Åtvid’s Old Church wedding gown & bridesmaids attire: Strictly Bridal flowers: Birgitta Åsljung Svensson photography: Matilda Söderström cake: Birgitta Gahm

What was the most special memory of the day?

In Sweden, we have a tradition of having many speeches at any party, so we had probably ten speeches and songs performed to us on the night. They were all so beautiful and I don't think there was a dry eye in the room.

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Queensland Brides Summer 2014 // real wedding

your weddings

Read more and share your wedding at www.queenslandbrides.com.au

What did you do for your honeymoon?

We went on a 'buddy moon' with some of our friends that had travelled to Europe for our wedding. We spent a few days in Copenhagen and a few days in Istanbul.

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Queensland Brides Summer 2014 // advertiser feature

I pronounce NOW

you…

Choosing the right celebrant can be a bit daunting. After all, they will help set the tone for your entire ceremony! We consulted one of the experts, Steve Hill, to find out what a celebrant does and what to expect.

WORDS: NATASHA PAVEZ The celebrant's role The celebrant doesn’t just pronounce you as happily wed, they wade through plenty of legalities before you exchange vows.

Making sure the couple can legally tie the knot is the first hurdle – couples can’t be married to anyone else, and also have to be over 18. Celebrants also need to ensure couples are exchanging vows willingly. "There are many things to take into consideration, and the celebrant must be totally confident that both parties fulfil these requirements," Steve explains. Some celebrants also offer pre-marital counselling so couples understand what they're getting into when they tie the knot.

How to choose your celebrant Whether your celebrant comes with your choice of venue or you've hand-picked your own, you need to make sure you're happy with whoever is presiding over those vows. "Most celebrants should be happy to have an obligation-free chat so you can get an overall 'feel' of what they’re all about," Steve advises. Your choice can be down to the way they look, dress and speak, or perhaps you specifically want a male or female celebrant. Make sure you take the time to meet any potentials prior to booking – websites and brochures can sometimes be out of date. Better safe than sorry!

Custom-made "Vows should always be very personal," says Steve. "One way to accentuate that is to write your own, starting with a clean canvas."

Lengthy, 'from the heart'-style vows are popular (though you may just shed a tear or two!), as are vows with a bit of humour in the mix. You can also say your vows in another language if you and your

It's always nice to send along a couple of photos and a thank you note to your celebrant, too – after all, they're responsible for getting you to the happily married stage.

Photographic Art

partner choose. (Steve also officiates in Spanish and French.) Send a copy of your vows to your celebrant before the big day to make sure you've covered everything – you don't want to end up half married!

While most couples are content to go with a traditional, 'straightforward' ceremony, there are also those who want something just a bit different. The world is your oyster! Music is a great way to personalise your ceremony, or you can include romantic readings from your loved ones or honour family who have passed away.

Steve’s Tip Put together a playlist of 12 songs that have been special to you over the years, to use throughout the ceremony. Some songs can play before and after the ceremony, while your most cherished songs can be used for the walk down the aisle, the signing of the documents, and your exit as the happy couple.

A Day in the Life We sat down with Steve to find out just what also start designing your ceremony, where to expect when you go to book your celebrant. your celebrant will go back and forth with you both (via phone or email) until your ceremony It all begins with an initial meeting with is fine-tuned to your liking. your celebrant. This is the time to ask any important questions, including price, date and services rendered. Steve recommends asking celebrants if they use a P.A. system, particularly if you have a large wedding.

Once you've decided on which celebrant you'd like to choose, lock it in. You'll meet with your celebrant to fill out the necessary legal forms and pay your initial deposit. You'll 250

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Before the big day, you should meet with your celebrant for a bit of a refresher on where to stand, when to walk, and how the ceremony will progress. You may choose to have a full rehearsal with the bridal party, or simply have a brief run through with you and your partner. "I generally steer away from having a full rehearsal with everyone involved

as this takes away from the spontaneity of the day," says Steve.

On the day, your celebrant will conduct the ceremony, wish you all the best and slip into the background… hooray, you're married!

While you're celebrating your newlywed status, your celebrant will lodge the required documents with Births, Deaths and Marriages – and that's job done.

(P.S. Some couples wonder if they should invite their celebrant to the reception. It’s entirely up to you, though we think it’s a sweet idea!)

Queensland Brides Summer 2014 // reception feature

the essentials

Top Tip from QB's Mel: Ask your guests for their song requests in yo ur invites. Perfect for so urcing a mix of music tha t'll get ever yone dancing!

Milque Photography and Films

YOUR Song Classic Covers

For the bride and groom who love tradition with a unique twist, why not see if your favourite contemporary artist has covered a classic song you adore?

Make You Feel My Love – Adele Your Song – Ellie Goulding Can't Help Falling in Love – Fleet Foxes Sing Songbird – Eva Cassidy At Last – Beyoncé

Waltz With A Twist If you want your first dance to be picture-perfect, an updated waltz is the way to go. No Tchaikovsky or Strauss here!

Waltz – The Cat Empire

You've exchanged your vows, you've made your entrance at the reception, and now it's time to hit the dance floor.

From new takes on romantic favourites, to modern tunes perfect for the 21st century couple, there's a song out there that's as unique as your own love story – and just the melody for your first dance as a married couple.

WORDS: NATASHA PAVEZ

Modern Hits

Dance On

Modern tunes to suit a modern romance, these songs have been favourites in recent years.

Hits that are guaranteed to get the party started!

Thinking Out Loud – Ed Sheeran

Crazy in Love – Beyoncé

All I Want Is You – Ball Park Music

Hey Ya – Outkast

Angels – The XX

Blame it on the Boogie – The Jackson 5

Mirrors – Justin Timberlake

Boom Boom Boom Boom – Vengaboys

Young and Beautiful – Lana Del Rey

Love Shack – B52s

Your Mess is Mine – Vance Joy Sea of Love – Cat Power

Instrumental Inspiration

Ho Hey – The Lumineers

If you're besotted with the melody of your favourite song, use an instrumental version for your first dance.

We love The Piano Guys and The Vitamin String Quartet. You can hire a live band or string quartet to play your chosen tune. For that special touch, get a musically-inclined loved one to play for you.

You've Got the Love – Florence and the Machine If My Heart Was A House – Owl City QB Favourites Turning Page – Sleeping at Last

Make the World Safe – The Whitlams

Not With Haste – Mumford and Sons

Never Tear Us Apart – INXS

All of Me – John Legend

A Thousand Years – Christina Perri

Save the Last Dance for Me – Michael Bublé

You and Me – Lifehouse

Who You Love – John Mayer and Katy Perry

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Queensland Brides Summer 2014 // informative flower feature

Blossoming

Beauties Ever thought the meaning behind your favourite blossoms? We've leafed through the pages of Mandy Kirkby's gorgeous book The Language of Flowers: A Miscellany and heard the whispers from the most popular bridal blooms around.

WORDS: NATASHA PAVEZ

The Language of Flowers You may not have realised it, but your bouquet actually speaks its own language – the centuries-old language of flowers. Whether it's luscious red roses in a bouquet or a simple sprig of holly, it seems we've all been using florals to convey secret messages. "The origin of the western language of flowers is thought to have been inspired by the Turkish custom of sélam – a method of communicating through flowers and other objects," says Vanessa Diffenbaugh, author of A Victorian Flower Dictionary. The Victorian era was when this trend really took off for the western world.

Every young Victorian lady could speak the language of flowers fluently, and flowers were used on every occasion to convey the right tones, whether the blooms adorned a lady's hair or were artfully displayed in a vase.

While we may not be as well-versed as the Victorians in decoding meanings hidden amongst the petals, we've thankfully got quite a bit of help from their age-old traditions. So pick your sun-warmed blooms straight from the garden, or pluck a bouquet from the florists' hands, and learn to read between the vines…

Roses Red roses, of course, speak of love – every romantic soul knows that! However, every shade of rose has its own unique meaning. Pink roses signify grace; burgundy, unconscious beauty.

Enchanted by someone? Give them a bouquet full of deep purple roses mixed with lavender tones. Moss roses are perfect for that confession of love you've been dying to make, or you can pick some orange-toned blossoms to show someone you're utterly fascinated by them.

"The rose has been the emblem of love since the earliest of times," explains Mandy. "The Victorians indulged in its symbolism and sentiment like no other, with a repertoire broad enough to express love in all its many guises."

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Milque Photography and Films

Tulips If you're suddenly dreaming of endless fields of tulips like those in the Netherlands, you're surely not the only one. These stunning blossoms are bright, vivacious and sure to add colour to any wedding. Discovered by flower-lovers in the Middle East during the time of the Ottoman Empire, these blooms eventually made their way to Vienna where they were leapt upon as the perfect symbol to declare undying devotion. "The flower's strong, bright colour shows that the suitor is on fire with her beauty, and the black centre indicates that his heart is burned to coal, so fierce is the heat of his love," says Mandy.

Baby's Breath Adding a note of dainty whimsy to bouquets across the years is baby's breath, its tiny white blossoms complementing a variety of blooms yet standing equally well in a posy of their own.

These flowers evoke thoughts of everlasting love – perfect for weddings, don't you think?

Carnations White carnations have our favourite meaning: they're known as 'sweet and lovely', so it's an ideal flower for a bride! Pinks speak of pure love and never forgetting, while Sweet

Williams denote gallantry (and were carried

by Kate Middleton on her wedding day). "The carnation has always been associated with the higher things, with fine emotions and love and marriage," says Mandy. Although red carnations traditionally mean 'my heart breaks', Mandy notes that in later years, they've come to represent strong, passionate love.

Peonies Symbolising a long and happy marriage (with good fortune to finish it all off!), peonies are undoubtedly a perpetual wedding fave. The Chinese word for peony means 'beauty', so whatever colour you choose to use in your wedding blossoms, you'll be making an ode to happy times ahead.

Poppies 'Fantastic extravagance' – nothing suits these bright blooms more! "In a ravishing spread of colours, from blood red to deep yellow, crushed-silk petals shimmering in the sun, the poppy provides a show of extraordinary lavishness," says Mandy. A bouquet of these flowers would suit the bride who wants to make an entrance, though be warned, they're not a long-lasting blossom.

The Perfect Posy Get an indepth look at all languages floral with The Language of Flowers: A Miscellany.

Pan Macmillan, RRP $24.99

For the bride-to-be on her big day, choose a bouquet filled with pale peach roses (modesty), pink roses (grace) and calla lilies (modesty). Add in some stephanotis (happiness in marriage) and red roses (love) and you'll be holding the garden's most love-filled blooms!

Queensland Brides Summer 2014 // destiination wedding feature

location location

ALL THAT

Glitters

There’s a reason the Gold Coast and Hinterland is known as the party capital of Queensland. So if you’re thinking of having your wedding there, we think it’s time to take it one step further – celebrate everything on the coast! Whether it’s your hens and bucks, honeymoon or anything in between, there’s a party option just waiting to be discovered…

Image: Beautiful Weddings & Chantilly Lace Photography

WORDS: NATASHA PAVEZ

HENS It’s not long now until you’re a married lady, and that in itself is cause for celebration.

City: Dance the night away with your favourite girls on a Gold Coast night club tour.

Most tour providers will offer you a seriously sleek ride for your journey (stretch Hummers and glossy limos? We’re on board), so all you need to worry about are your killer moves.

Beach: Let the ocean be your backdrop and book a night – or weekend – in a beach house. There’s no party like a grown-up slumber party, and we think a party night in with your girls is the way to go. Wander down onto the gorgeous beach as you please, frolic in the waves, then head back inside for a night filled with chick flicks, games and endless fun.

Hinterland: Food and wine lovers, you need to book in a tour around the Gold Coast Hinterland’s many wineries and culinary hideaways. Cedar Creek Estate, Sirromet Wines and Sarabah Estate are a few of our fave locations. Try Gold Coast Luxury Tours – they can craft a tour to suit all your needs.

BUCKS

200

we’re pretty fond of the many pubs on the Goldie), or you can see if Lady Luck is on your side with a visit to the iconic Jupiters Casino.

Beach: Sun, sand and surf… it’s time to bring out the surfboard and face the waves!

Wicked Bucks offer a pretty incredible surfing package, even decking the groom-to-be out in his own hot pink bikini to truly make it a buck’s party to remember.

Hinterland: If you call the outdoors home, journey into one of the Gold Coast Hinterland’s rainforests and do some exploring. Check out Southern Cross 4WD Tours for a more guided approach to the forests – eight different packages means you’ll be able to choose a tour that satisfies the outdoorsman in you.

WEDDING The big day’s here, and you’ll want a locale to match your wedding dreams.Take your pick of some truly fab spaces and get ready to party on!

City: Gaze out over the twinkling skyline with a reception in the heart of the city. There are some breathtaking locations, perfect for photos and partying with your guests.

Boys, we haven’t forgotten you – if you’ve not already planned on a theme park bucks, it’s time to round up your mates and hit the town before you say ‘I do’!

Beach: Tie the knot, barefoot, on the white sands, then head indoors for your reception.

Go for an all-in-one location that’s away from the hubbub of the city, for a secluded and romantic wedding experience you’ll cherish.

City: The city really is your oyster on the Gold Coast. Pub tours are always a hit (and

Hinterland: Embrace nature and tie the knot among the trees. For an intimate

wedding, take a tour around Peppers Ruffles Lodge & Spa, with panoramic views over the Gold Coast. Or, exchange vows in Ecostudio Fellini’s chic outdoor chapel. Take your pick!

HONEYMOON You’ve said the vows, cut the cake, and partied til the early hours. After all this (and all those months of tireless planning!), it’s time to unwind. Curl up with your sweetheart in a luxe Gold Coast location and lose yourself in a thousand romantic moments…

City: Book a penthouse (with ocean views, naturally) and spend some quality time with the one you love. City penthouses with all the trimmings are certainly a way to indulge in some opulence, with all the comforts of home. Bonus points? Being in the city, you’re close to myriad options for things to do!

Beach: With the beach stretching before you, we think you need to take full advantage of it! Spend your honeymoon in Surfers Paradise, and on a day where you’re not lazing on the beach, book you and your honey in for a tour around Wave Break Island.

Craving some quiet? Visit the beaches around Kirra or the local secret, Froggy’s Beach.

Hinterland: Some seclusion may be in order, and we recommend whiling the honeymoon hours away in a private hinterland escape. Hide away in one of the many retreats scattered throughout the hinterland and take advantage of some seriously indulgent massages and treatments.

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Wedding of Jessica & Ryan at Moda Events Portside Photo:Focus Films

Small Wedding,

Big Love

Although big weddings are always a beautiful choice for brides and grooms, it isn’t the only option available to you! Intimate weddings are becoming more and more popular in recent years – plenty of couples are choosing to celebrate their wedding day on a smaller, cosier scale, surrounded only by their dearest friends and family.

WORDS: NATASHA PAVEZ

Whether you host an intimate wedding out of necessity (such as you or your partner having overseas roots) or purely out of choice, you can be sure you've made a good decision. We've rounded up ten reasons why you’ll love an intimate wedding.

Save Some weddings aren't cheap affairs, and accommodating your guests certainly takes up a huge portion of your budget (Martha Stewart recommends allocating 50 percent of your budget to the reception alone!). With an intimate wedding, 220

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you can spend far less without compromising on quality. Best of all, you can reallocate your savings however you please. House deposits and honeymoon funds are popular choices, but there is another option...

Splurge If you're dreaming of a Hollywood-style wedding but aren't sure how to pay for it, then an intimate wedding could be the answer. With a smaller guest list, you can splurge on the things you really want. Quality photography, the venue you've always had your eye on, or that showstopper of a dress... it can all be yours, and it won't break the bank.

Stress less It's no secret that planning a wedding can be stressful – after all, you're organising one of the biggest days of your life! The bigger the guest list, the more you'll have to organise and eventually chase up. Feeling tense at the thought? Shrink that guest list. It'll be lovely to only follow up two or three missing RSVPs rather than 53, won't it?

Surrounded by love When you find out that your great aunt who hasn't seen you in 20 years is angling for an invite, it's hard to say no. From there, guest lists can snowball, until you're left with a family reunion.

Small weddings make it easier to invite those you really want with you on your special day.

Queensland Brides Spring 2014// reception feature

the big event

Studio Impressions Photography Venue: Restaurant Two

Spend time with guests How often have we been to weddings and barely caught a glimpse of the bride and groom? (Of course, it's not their fault – they've got plenty of people to see!) If you've been on the receiving end of this, chances are you're pretty concerned about flitting from guest to guest, feeling completely frazzled. With fewer people to worry about you can actually spend quality, one-on-one time with your guests, making everyone feel comfortable and welcome at your wedding.

a cookie-cutter event. It's going to be a day that you and your guests always remember fondly.

Pressure's off Many couples get so overwhelmed by the pressure of tying the knot that they can’t relax on the big day. A smaller guest list, filled with those you care about most, will keep you from feeling as though you're on stage. Let the party begin!

Intimate wedding venues If you want to get married at your favourite restaurant, or in the little church you've attended all your life, it can be near impossible to cater to 200 guests. With a smaller guest list, so many more doors open. Backyard weddings, beach weddings, garden weddings – you can even get married on a boat!

Uniquely you If you don’t feel confident about putting your stamp on a large venue space, don’t despair. With a small wedding – and small venue to match – it's easy to create a wedding that truly reflects you and your partner. Music, décor, food and so much more can be tailored to suit exactly what you want, and you can be sure you're not having 222

Celebrating love The most important part of your wedding day is celebrating the love between you and your partner. After all, that's why you're tying the knot!

But with an intimate wedding, you can celebrate those who have always had your back. There are plenty of ways to incorporate your family and close friends into your day, such as through readings, handfasting, and vows.

Destination, destination Don't deny it, organising 200 guests to meet you overseas would be an ordeal.

By keeping your wedding intimate, you can reallocate your funds to celebrate the destination wedding of your dreams – with those you love most.

Tips from the experts Some of our lovely vendors have offered their advice to make your intimate wedding the ultimate success.

“Keeping the guest list small can break hearts so go into the engagement announcement prepared! Being clear in the beginning will make a lean guest list MUCH easier to stick to down the track.”

- Jessica Layton, Moda Events Portside “Intimate weddings allow everyone to feel connected and present, so take the time to spend a moment with each of your guests.

Incorporate items that have meaning into your theming and decorations and enjoy not only the big moments of the day, but also the small.”

- Oliver Thomson, Watermark Hotel “Remember it’s a day all about you and your love for another! It’s an exciting time for you both along with your family and friends.

Enjoy the journey, work with suppliers you’re comfortable with and trust, don’t be afraid to express yourself and remember, the whole purpose of your wedding day is to celebrate the bond and commitment the two of you have made to one another.”

- Emily Fredriksen, Peppers Ruffles Lodge and Spa

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Queensland Brides Spring 2014 // destination wedding feature

location location

Coastal

CHARM

Wedding of Claire & Matthew Photo: Bayleigh Vedelago

Sunshine Coast and Hinterland weddings are some of the most beautiful in Australia, and it's no wonder why – from beaches to mountains, the Sunshine Coast and Hinterland is home to every wedding location under the sun. We've rounded up some of the best wedding locations for you to choose from (and some gorgeous styling options to match!).

WORDS: NATASHA PAVEZ Photo: Studio Impressions Photography

CHURCH

Church ceremonies are wedding favourites.

From cute chapels to grand modern buildings, the Sunshine Coast is home to the church of your dreams.

Styling ideas: Complement stained-glass windows and polished wooden pews with decadent floral arrangements.

BEACH

The Sunshine Coast's stunning beaches leave you with only one problem – which will you choose? Endless sand and surf offer a stunning backdrop for your big day, perfected by glowing sunsets and warm breezes.

Styling ideas: Keep it light and natural.

Combine flowing fabrics with weathered wooden furniture, accented by candles and seashells.

FARM

The Sunshine Coast and Hinterland's rolling green hills and endless blue skies are a picturesque setting for any wedding. You're truly away from the city!

Styling ideas: Embrace a luxe-country feel: twine-wrapped centrepieces complement buckets of blossoming flowers, especially when finished off with a touch of bling!

RESORT

Talk about ‘wow’ factor! The Sunshine Coast's beachside resorts offer spectacular amenities that far surpass your expectations, including incredible cuisine.

Styling ideas: You deserve only the best, so go with an opulent theme. Indulge in decadence with lavish floral displays, gold accents, and thick, luxurious linens.

LODGES AND ESTATES

Run away to a hinterland lodge, where the Sunshine Coast's signature charm meets unrivalled beauty.

Styling ideas: Take a page from the history books – elegance is key. Silver, feathers and pearls add a hint of old-world glamour, softened by miles of greenery and cascading white florals.

VINEYARD

It's the foodie's ultimate choice. Vines twist and twine to create an atmospheric, natural and downright gorgeous celebration.

Styling ideas: Fruit-laden centrepieces, burlap table runners, long wooden tables and towering cheese stacks create a rustic feel.

Complete the look with twinkling fairy lights.

COTTAGES

Quaint and atmospheric, cottages are a peaceful option for your Sunshine Coast wedding. Mountainside hideaways make for a perfect winter wedding.

Styling ideas: Think vintage, with lace, roses and silver. Fabric ribbons in your wedding colours and antique furniture will transport your guests back to yesteryear.

RESTAURANT

Sunshine Coast restaurants certainly take advantage of having delicious local produce!

Perfect for smaller weddings, a restaurant reception will give you exquisite menus and service to match.

Styling ideas: Restaurants often have their own style, but don't despair! Plan a fun, colourful affair using balloons, colourful linens and bright, bold blooms.

PARK

Marry the one you love most in lush green surrounds. The Sunshine Coast and Hinterland is home to beautifully maintained parks, perfect for casual outdoor weddings.

Styling ideas: Hang ribbons and paper lanterns from nearby trees, and set up chairs in a wide arc so no one misses a thing. Follow it up with a casual picnic-style reception.

GARDENS AND FORESTS

Gardens are another way to get close to nature while celebrating your love. The Sunshine Coast and Hinterland's botanic gardens and rainforests are ideal for intimate weddings.

Styling ideas: Take a cue from Alice in Wonderland and hold a magnificent garden party after exchanging vows. Cupcakes, teacups and out-of-this-world colour schemes – no guest will be late for this date.

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BLUSH COLLECTION

BY JENNIFER GIFFORD DESIGNS

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November 19, 2014 // fashion editorial

Nothing brightens our day quite like a collection of romantic bridal gowns, so when the QB team saw Jennifer Gifford’s gorgeous new Blush collection… well, it’s safe to say we were instantly in love.

With feminine touches of lace plus dainty, almost ethereal details, the Blush gowns are a celebration of girly elegance – perfect for a bride marrying the love of her life.

The beauty of these gowns is that they’re perfect for almost any wedding style and so simply beautiful that the blushing bride will radiate happiness on the big day with her dress as the perfect accessory.

It’s time to close your eyes and dream of wedding day bliss…

G A L L E R Y

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10 SHORT WEDDING DRESSES page 44

May 11, 2015 // fashion editorial

The QB office is filled with ladies who are a bit partial to a pretty thing or two, and currently sweeping our love-list are short wedding dresses. These dresses have enjoyed their time in the limelight (the 20s rocked some seriously divine short bridal gowns), and now, more and more brides are choosing these to reflect their sense of style.

Because we honestly can’t help ourselves, we’ve done a round up of our favourite gowns – be they from local designers, international favourites or your own real weddings. Time to dream…

G A L L E R Y

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QB LOVES: ROYAL WEDDINGS Here at QB, we’re pretty fond of a royal wedding (or ten!), so when it came time to counting down our favourite wedding dresses, we were actually stumped. How can you narrow down aeons of stunning bridal looks across the world into ten favourites?

Luckily for our lovely readers, we managed to make our list.

Have we missed any of your favourites?

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10. QUEEN VICTORIA | DATE OF MARRIAGE: 10TH FEBRUARY, 1840 | SPOUSE: PRINCE ALBERT OF SAXE-COBURG AND GOTHA While this may be a bit too old fashioned for modern sensibilities, we feel Queen Victoria deserves a mention for her gown nevertheless.

Although many think she was the first to don a white gown, white was a popular colour for upper-class brides across the ages – Queen Victoria just had timing on her side (and an excellent seamstress). Resplendent in her white gown and wearing a wreath of orange blossoms and myrtle, the image of the young Queen walking to meet Prince Albert at the altar was one that many fell in love with.

Instead of mixing with metallics in the royal trend of the day, Victoria chose to instead embellish her gown with handmade Honiton lace, which she describes in her journals as a “deep flounce”.

Unfortunately for us, that lace was taken off the gown and used in her children’s clothing, so it’s not something we can look at today.

So how did white become the wedding trend? It’s not exactly a romantic answer, but we can thank cheaper bleaches, Queen Victoria’s daughters keeping up the trend, and our ever-continuing infatuation with emulating celebs and royals.

January 27, 2015 // royal weddings

08. WALLIS WARFIELD | DATE OF MARRIAGE: 3RD JUNE, 1937 | SPOUSE: PRINCE EDWARD, DUKE OF WINDSOR (FORMERLY KING EDWARD VIII)

09. PRINCESS DIANA | DATE OF MARRIAGE: 29TH JULY, 1981 | SPOUSE: PRINCE CHARLES Diana’s ivory silk taffeta and antique lace gown certainly fit the brief – David and Elizabeth Emanuel, the designers who skyrocketed to fame after the soon-to-be Princess’ walk down the aisle, described the dress as something needing to “go down in history”, while also being something Diana loved. The dress had to make an impression – after all, it was to compete with St Paul’s Cathedral’s imposing surrounds.

With puffy sleeves, handmade Carrickmacross lace and a nearly 8-metre long train, it made the impression the young bride desired. Even now, Elizabeth Emanuel reportedly receives requests for replicas of the gown!

Whether you think this dress is dated or not, there’s no denying the impact this gown made on the wedding-sphere.

She’s a royal who experienced her fair share of controversy over the years – after all, she was a commoner, the king’s mistress, and divorced twice before marrying the former King of England (who abdicated to call the glamorous socialite his bride). Although the royal family was disapproving of the union, it didn’t stop Wallis from looking drop-dead gorgeous on her wedding day. Tying the knot at the picturesque Château de Candé, the bride wore a Mainbocher gown in her signature colour, ‘Wallis blue’. The blue silk crepe gown nipped in at the waist with a subtle button feature, while gentle pin tucks added a flattering contrast on her bust line compared to the clinging fabric elsewhere.

And, in true royal form, the bride seriously stunned with her headpiece. A Caroline Reboux creation, the straw hat was in a coordinating blue, creating a halo effect with pale blue tulle.

The gown can be seen at the Metropolitan Museum (Wallis donated it back in 1950), and it’s still regarded as one of the world’s most copied gowns. It’s faded to ivory now, but the lining still holds glimpses of the gown’s former hue.

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06. PRINCESS MARY | DATE OF MARRIAGE: 14TH MAY, 2004 | SPOUSE: CROWN PRINCE FREDERIK OF DENMARK 07. QUEEN ELIZABETH | DATE OF MARRIAGE: 20TH NOVEMBER, 1947 | SPOUSE: PRINCE PHILIP, DUKE OF EDINBURGH A post-war wedding was on the cards for Princess Elizabeth (as she was known as at the time), and the savvy princess saved up her ration cards and put them all towards the ivory duchesse satin for her gown.

Choosing Norman Hartnell for the designs, the extravagant gown took its inspiration from the florals of spring and, naturally, all the necessary royal symbols. Embroidered with seed pearls, silver thread, crystals and tulle appliqués, the overall effect is simply stunning.

Not to be outdone, the train, too, is a work of art. The nearly four-metre long train started at Elizabeth’s shoulders, featuring embroidery in a beautiful star pattern that simply shone in the church. We love how one fashion blogger phrases it: “The overall effect is… like a halo of tulle surrounding the bride.”

Crowned in a diamond fringe tiara loaned to her by her mother, Princess Elizabeth was certainly the bride the public needed after all those sombre years, and we love how happy she looks to be tying the knot. She’s simply glowing, don’t you think?

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Oh, the fairytale romance – girl meets boy at bar, the two fall in love, and lo, she literally becomes royalty. Such was the case for Mary Donaldson, who needed to strike the perfect balance between demure and couture when she married her real-life Prince Charming.

Created by Danish designer Uffe Frank, the dress was made from ivory duchess satin with a mother of pearl sheen, fully lined with silk organza. The dress’s elbow-length sleeves wrapped Mary’s arm in a detail the designer dubbed “callasleeves” in homage to the iconic lily. And that bodice, oh my – a wide scoop neckline resting along the shoulders, with a gorgeous sentimental touch inside. Stitched on the gown near Mary’s heart was her mother’s wedding ring, honouring her passing in 1997. The skirt’s long panels were sewn to reveal glimpses of 100 year old lace, the same age of Mary’s veil. Both were made by nuns in Connaught, Ireland.

We can’t go without mentioning Mary’s bouquet, purely for her salute to our fab country. Eucalyptus in the bouquet was the perfect touch for the Australian-born princess, and combining it with a Danish-made dress was the ideal symbolism on her big day – the combining of two lives, and two cultures.

January 27, 2015 // royal weddings

05. CHARLENE | DATE OF MARRIAGE: 1 JULY, 2011 | SPOUSE: ALBERT II OF MONACO An Armani gown was always going to be Charlene’s gown of choice, and the simple yet intricate design was totally befitting the star athlete turned princess. Let’s start from the top with that chic neckline, featuring a crossed-shoulder detail. The almost-offthe-shoulder design is both modern and modest, utterly perfect for a royal wedding while still being something you could see any bride striding down the aisle in.

Embroidery down the front of the gown, the skirt and the train features 40,000 Swarovski crystals, 20,000 mother of pearl teardrops, 30,000 gold stones and platinum-coated thread – so, in case you weren’t too sure if this really was a royal wedding, you’re probably quite convinced now.

Choosing to forgo a tiara in favour of a simple diamond hairpiece dating from the 19th century, the focus was all on Charlene’s gown, especially those exquisite trains (that’s right, Charlene had two trains). Her tulle veil was as long as the train (even longer, in some pictures!) and she made quite the entrance on the day for all the right reasons.

04. PRINCESS CLAIRE OF LUXEMBOURG DATE OF MARRIAGE: 17TH SEPTEMBER, 2013 | SPOUSE: PRINCE FÉLIX OF LUXEMBOURG She’s not just a gorgeous face – Princess Claire is also a bioethics researcher, using her intelligence to be awarded her masters in Bioethics (even summa cum laude). While studying, she met her future husband Prince Félix. The two announced their engagement in early December before tying the knot the following year.

Claire chose an Elie Saab gown for her walk down the aisle, and it was nothing short of perfection. The ivory-coloured gown was embroidered with Chantilly lace floral motifs and shimmering silver thread, while a three-metre long train stretched down the aisle for maximum impact. Accented with crystals and pearls, the bespoke gown is a creation utterly befitting a princess. Claire’s headwear continues that floral trend. Her silk tulle veil, paired with a silver and diamond tiara, both feature floral designs that have us swooning. And in case the long sleeves and high neckline had you thinking this dress was conservative, take a look at the back of the gown – it dips low to reveal some skin.

We think HELLO mag phrased it best: “Princess Claire of Luxembourg was picture-perfect.”

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03. KATE MIDDLETON | DATE OF MARRIAGE: 29TH APRIL, 2011 | SPOUSE: PRINCE WILLIAM Although this dress was inspired by Grace Kelly’s dress – v-necks, long sleeves and oodles of lace – the Sarah Burton designed gown reigns as one of our perpetual favourites.

Handmade lace appliqués grace the bottom of the skirt and the bodice, adding intricate detail to the ivory and white satin gazar gown.

02.

GRACE KELLY | DATE OF MARRIAGE: 18-19TH APRIL, 1956 | SPOUSE: RAINIER III, PRINCE OF MONACO For those of you who are outraged at us now for placing this one at second, let’s get this out of the way – we love this gown with an unbridled passion. Unfortunately for us, another gown captured our hearts just a teensy bit more (and you’ll soon see why).

The bodice almost embodies a corset feel, which we love. A long stretch of tiny buttons down Kate’s back plus padded hips under the skirt (v. McQueen) equals a salute to Victorian-era gowns, enhanced only by an almost bustle at the back of the gown.

Topping this off with a simple blusher veil trimmed in lace and the Halo Tiara loaned to her by the Queen herself, the new Duchess of Cambridge (and future Queen of England) made a stunning entrance indeed.

For her marriage into the royal family of Monaco, film star Grace Kelly went with the bombshell style her audience knew her for, with demure touches that sent her straight into the lookbooks of royals everywhere. (If you don’t agree, just look how lace bodices have persevered!) Designed by Helen Rose of MGM, the gown featured a high neck and long sleeves, the collar following the lace’s natural pattern in a subtle, chic way. The fitted torso gives way to a lovely full skirt, boosted by two petticoats and masses of fabric:

A touch we loved? Including sweet William blooms in her bouquet. What a lovely ode to her Prince!

“Twenty five yards of silk taffeta, one hundred yards of silk net, peau de soie, tulle and 125 year old Brussels rose point lace…”

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January 27, 2015 // royal weddings

01. PRINCESS MADELEINE OF SWEDEN | DATE OF MARRIAGE: 8TH JUNE, 2013 | SPOUSE: CHRISTOPHER O’NEILL Our number one place goes to one of the younger Swedish royals, who donned her lacebedecked gown in 2013.

So why, exactly, do we love this gown? We love how youthful this gown is – and how it’s still a classic piece. Designed by Valentino, the dress’s lace overlay scoops gently across Princess Madeleine’s collar bones, subtly mimicking the dress’s neckline. Shorter sleeves give it the playful air, while the flaring skirt flows into a long, long train (four metres, to be exact!). No necklace, but chandelier earrings are on display. The veil is perched behind a simple tiara, while orange blossoms encircle the jewels in a royal take on your bohemian flower crown.

The palace’s official statement about the dress describes it as being “made from pleated silk organza with appliquéd ivory-coloured Chantilly lace”, while a deep-cut back to that lovely bodice adds interest from behind.

While Princess Madeleine didn’t have any maids on her day, she chose to surround herself with attendants as her mother and sister did before her. And her best accessory, in our opinion, was her megawatt smile. Nothing makes us happier than a bride who can’t wait to get married!

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QB LOVES: COLOURED WEDDING DRESSES

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April 30, 2015 // fashion feature

If you’re not too keen on a white wedding, coloured wedding gowns may be calling your name. We’ve found our favourite coloured wedding gowns from local and international designers for your big day…

Bright and Bold A bright and bubbly personality deserves the dress to match. Perfect for garden weddings or casual affairs, these gowns are fun and flirty, while being wedding-day appropriate.

Modern Edge Not just for funerals, blacks and dark greys are an avant-garde option, ideal for brides wanting to make the ultimate statement.

Muted Tones Seeking colour but not wanting to veer too far away from tradition? Whether your gown is in a shimmering platinum, a sweet blush, or an on-trend Champagne, you’ll draw every eye. Or, try some subtle detailing in a darker colour.

G A L L E R Y

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ROMANCE IN THE AIR page 54

February 6, 2015 // style file – valentine’s day

Celebrate the love of Valentine’s Day with some wedding day inspo themed after this romantic occasion. Red, gold and white create an opulent, love-filled theme, with romance abounding and passion aplenty.

Dress Your gown should be romantic and feminine. Gently-flowing chiffon and sweetheart necklines evoke old-world romance, or channel classic Hollywood-style glamour with a full-skirted gown, perfectly suited to a big-screen wedding.

We love: Stephanie and Naomi gowns, Jack Sullivan; Blush gown, Jennifer Gifford Beauty Red is synonymous with love and passion, so use these colours in your big day look.

Team these bold colours with played-down eyes for max impact.

We love: Over & Over A-Gwen, OPI; Vixen lipstick, The Gloss Bar Shoes Christian Louboutin’s signature red soles translate perfectly to a Valentine’s Day wedding. Complete the look with the Corafront pump, featuring a sweet heart addition on the toe, or wear the Tibur shoe in red for a sultry feel.

Maids Red on your maids is the way to go for Valentine’s Day. We love: Fishtail Evening Dress by Tania Olsen, Sentani Stationery Golden glitter and adorable heart details are tailor-made for a Valentine’s Day wedding.

We love: Custom stationery suite, Bespoke Letterpress Decor Glamorous gold and passionate red are the perfect team – and heart details make it Valentine-worthy. Finish the look off with a luxurious chaise longue, and recline in style with your sweetheart.

We love: Decanter pendant lights, Eco Chic; rustic gold table number, No Ordinary Gift Company; vintage-style heart confetti, Hampton Blue; Lockley Chaise Longue, Sweetpea & Willow; Heart Me LED Marquee Light, Two Girls and a Container; Love cake topper, Better Off Wed

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S O C I A L

M E D I A

MY TOP POSTS

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Queensland Brides Magazine {via tashacarolina} The Louisse by Elie Saab – we love how delicate the back of this dress is. You can find this at Pronovias, in the Elie

by Elie Saab collection. So much love! #weddingdress #dress #bride #qldbrides #eliesaab #pronovias

33 1 226 Queensland Brides Magazine This Atelier Aimee bridal gown, in a gorgeous shade of pastel pink, is a sweet idea for the bride wanting a spot of colour on her wedding day.

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4 95 queenslandbrides Happy anniversary to Kate and William!

Even four years on, this gown is still as enchanting as ever.

(And Mr and Mrs Wales – so dubbed by the groom – were a gorgeous picture of love and joy.) #royalwedding #katemiddleton #princewilliam #kateandwills #wedding #anniversary #qldbrides

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8 queenslandbrides Traditional vows, beautifully written onto cotton linen canvas. @fourthingspaper, your #calligraphy talent makes us swoon! #lettering #wedding #vows #qldbrides

P R I N T

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THE URBAN

Escape

It’s an iconic building; ask anyone who makes the trek through Southbank and they’ll know exactly which you refer to. The Dock Street Warehouse’s multi-award winning rejuvenation, designed by Surroundings and carried out by MCD Constructions, has been supreme.

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ver lunch – lemon ricotta chicken in proscuitto, if you're interested – Lesley Anne (affectionately known as LA) was more than happy to tell us how she came to own the Dock Street Warehouse. "We were living in a modern, boxy home in Taringa," she says. "We did mean to downsize – we thought we could get an apartment here or across the river. We randomly stumbled across this home on a Sunday. On the following Thursday, we bought it."

Starting life as a warehouse in the 50s, it was a double-storey home when LA and Andrew were handed the keys. Had a building inspection been carried out, LA admits she would have probably abandoned the entire project.

"There wasn't any single part of this house that was easy," says Cameron McDonald of MCD Constructions. "There was so much consideration from everyone. From the moment I saw Surroundings' sketch-up of the design, I was so excited to do it."

Suzie Wiley, architect at Surroundings, agrees. "Everything had to be perfect. The attention to detail is pretty extraordinary."

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Entering the space, the appeal is instant – whether it's the sense of home permeating the space, or the stunning surrounds, it's hard to say. The outdoors live inside in the form of a courtyard, filled with towering frangipanis that make their way up two storeys. "We wanted the home to be a journey through spaces," explains Laura Pascoe, architect at Surroundings. "From the different areas, you can see the garden – it's a really nice view in a house without a yard, and acts as the central feature to the entire space." The creative scope of landscape designer Darryl Mappin (of Mappin Design Group) led to the tiled, bland courtyard becoming what it is now, a sublime mini-park in the midst of Brisbane's urban landscape. "You have courtyards," says Cameron. "This? It's like a forest."

On the lower level, a guest's sanctuary is light-filled and self-contained, featuring hand-crafted lights in the bathrooms and artwork from LA and Andrew's collection. The flexibility of space – and the ability to 'retreat' and escape to secluded spaces in their home – was key for the couple, a design statement echoed throughout the home. "It's a very shared space, created with the intention to share with different people."

Queensland Homes Winter 2015 // real home editorial

Counting Down A unique piece of Australian history lies on the exposed brick wall – the old lighting board from ABC’s Countdown Studios, with still-moving switches and linear design

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Lady of Letters The library’s warmth and old-world vibrancy make it perfect for plenty of occasions, from relaxing with a novel to hosting a meeting in luxe surrounds

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The second floor hosts LA's two favourite spaces: the library and gourmet kitchen ("we spent a lot of time on these"). Trailing into the library, it's obvious why. An exposed brick wall meets rustic timber floors (formerly railway sleepers, Laura explains), creating a sense of warmth and vibrancy. It's something out of a tale as old as time, especially when you look out the windows either side. Out one, the frangipani forest looms below; out the other, a striking portrait by Guido van Helten almost blends into the courtyard wall, serene in its beauty. The kitchen offers that same sense of contempo-classic style, with aged copper detailing and white tiled feature walls working to make the space look better the more it's used. "The materials in this house are really about creating that sense of age and history," says Laura. "There's this idea that the space will change over time." A butler's pantry, tucked around the corner and lined with LA's collection of framed degustation menus, acts as a servery for dinner parties and entertaining in the home.

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Queensland Homes Winter 2015 // real home editorial The artwork is varied throughout the home – whether it's a piece sourced from art galleries or from traditional communities in Alice Springs, each piece was strategically placed through the home for optimum visual effect. In Melbourne, the team found a piece of Australian history – the old lighting board from ABC's Countdown studios, a tactile piece now sitting proudly on the wall. It's there to stay no matter what the years bring; at 300kg, no one would be in a rush to move it. It teams perfectly with furniture and styling pieces sourced by interior designers Jacks Corner Design and SuperAverage, creating an effortlessly stylish space both inside and out.

Connecting each level is what Suzie terms the 'spine' of the home – an incredible staircase, featuring aged steel in a ribbonstyle design and raw brass screening to act as a balustrade. "I wanted a loft-style connection between the levels," LA says.

The master bedroom is minimalist and natural, a beautiful look that translates perfectly to relaxation. The wallpaper stretching around the room was handpainted by Laura ("it was the biggest painting I've ever done," she laughs), in a flowing, organic design.

Up a few stairs, LA and Andrew's ensuite beckons. The same crisply classic theme in the kitchen translates here, with brass finishes sourced from The English Tapware Company adding a sense of age to the space. A variation on his-and-hers sinks allows the pair to have their own space, while still shared. And again, the more it's used, the better it looks. The room takes advantage of bright Brisbane light through two skylights. "With neighbours nearby, we couldn't have windows," says Laura. "We decided to introduce daylight through the skylights instead."

“IT’S A VERY SHARED SPACE, CREATED WITH THE INTENTION TO SHARE WITH DIFFERENT PEOPLE.”

Finishing it off is a rooftop garden, with soaring views across the Brisbane River and CBD. It's a place you can't imagine leaving, not willingly; it's the perk, LA says, of living in a house designed just for her. "It all flows and comes together in a really natural way," she says. "From the builders to the designers, the collaboration in creating this space means it just works."

Panorama Boasting views of Southbank that most don’t often see, the rooftop garden and entertaining area is, in a word, paradise

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OH DEER Faux deer heads mounted on walls are having a bit of a moment in design land, so we were smitten with these gorgeous child-friendly numbers from Happy As Larry Designs. RRP $54.95, happyaslarrydesigns.com.au

SLEEPING BEAUTY The rose gold Eden bed has all the hallmarks of classic Incy Interiors design – quirky, quality and cute, with a vibe which harkens back to yesteryear. RRP $799 for single frame. Available online or at selected retailers, incyinteriors.com.au

YO HO, YO HO It’s time for your little ones to swashbuckle into bedtime with Hickory Hill Home’s fun jersey pyjamas. The red and white stripes meet an appliquéd skull, while elastic ankle cuffs will keep the winter frostbite out of dreamtime – perfect for all your little pirates.

RRP $34.95, hickoryhillhome.com

Child’s

Play Let their imagination run wild and free with these cute and cool ideas for play and rest.

WHALE OF A TIME Make a splash with this adorable lamp from indie art & design. Printed onto pale timber veneer, the paintwork shows the subtle grain and a vibrant, bright design – and a cheerful whale to finish it off. RRP $108.90, indie.com.au

SO FOXY Bright cushion covers are always our design crush, and where better place to put them than in the kids’ room? Hand-sewn and printed on both sides, this fox print from Habitots is stylish and fun all at once. RRP $64, habitots.com.au 34

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DESIGN & DECOR

HELLO SAILOR Zara Home, how we love you. This nautical-inspired bedspread is a gorgeous addition to any kids’ bedroom, with classic red, white and blue stamped anchor and starfish prints. A range of accessories completes the look – the plush whale and boat own our hearts. zarahome.com

JITTERBUG Functionality meets art – we can't argue with that! This stylish stroller from Bugaboo takes its design cues from Van Gogh, embracing the artist's painting Almond Blossom. Pick up this gorgeous piece for $869, and grab some of the range's seriously chic accessories to complete your look. bugaboo.com

SOFTLY SOFTIE Your little ones won’t want to let this one go. With a hand-illustrated panda design on the front and plain white backing, they’re stylish – and their 100% cotton make means they’re soft enough to snuggle with all day long. Handmade by Rebecca Kiff, RRP $39.95. oliverstwistytales.com.au

SNUGGLE UP Wrap your tiniest tot up with this gorgeous organic cotton muslin wrap from KwithHeart. Individually handstamped using lino blocks – meaning no two wraps are the same – all materials are safe for little ones and the environment alike. You can also use this as a very chic pram shade on warmer days. We love. RRP $40, kwithheart.bigcartel.com queenslandhomes.com.au

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SPACES

Retro styling from Di Henshall Interior Design

With 30 years under our belt, Queensland Homes has seen its fair share of interiors. From the flashy eighties to the minimalist noughties, all the way to now, we've indulged in changing trends and classic looks from the moment we first hit the newsstands.

Armed with first-hand knowledge – and experience from some of Queensland's finest designers – we're taking a look back at our favourite looks and loves from the last 30 years.

THE EIGHTIES IN A WORD: Flashy EXTERIORS: Not as inspiring as our interiors, we favoured brick veneers and standard designs. "Architecturally uninspiring, both inside and out," is how our editor-in-chief, Rhonda Bannister, remembers it.

INTERIORS: Think bold, think bright, think colourful. John Croft, of John Croft Designs, notes that his main colour scheme was purple with a spot of teal; trending at the time were gold accents and faux finishes. "At the time, I really enjoyed this look," he laughs. We can say the same – even if it's looking a little dated now, a bit of the 80s never really hurt anyone.

Typical 2000s style Photo: John Downs

THE NINETIES IN A WORD: Eclectic EXTERIORS: Whether we called a Queenslander home or went for a modern, sleek abode, Queensland homes weren't too outgoing – unless you count some bold emerald trimming along window edges! Exposed brick was a traditional choice, so much so that we showed our readers how to choose the right brick for their build back in '96. Of course, there were exceptions to the rule (pink exterior cladding, anyone?), but we really preferred to let our interiors do all the talking…

INTERIORS: Quintessential Queensland design was just as varied as the decade – in the early 90s, we fell hard for crisp white and soothing green in the bedroom, quirky seaside dining rooms and 'French Queenslander' living areas. The 90s also saw a love of minimalist design, keeping things neatly pared back with some Japanese inspiration coming to the fore. Pine furniture – knots showing in the blonde-coloured wood – was a must-have.

As we approached the new millennium, we went back to colours.Taking its style cues from sunny European islands, it's no surprise that the colour of the hour was yellow – and in a big way. Adorning everything from walls to furnishings (with a terracotta tile to make it pop), the nineties focused on a mix of provincial accents, designer touches and classic furniture. It really was a case of anything goes.

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Queensland Homes Winter 2015 // retrospective feature SPACES A pale blue feature wall in a classic Queenslander, from the mid 00s.

Photo: Anastasia Kariofyllides

THE NOUGHTIES IN A WORD: Minimal EXTERIORS: Remember the Tuscan influence? It was still going strong, but on the outdoors. Cement render came to the fore, covering up exposed brick with a fresco-style paint applied on top. Homes took on whatever colour you dreamed of, be it a coastal blue, a classic white, sunny yellow or rustic terracotta.

INTERIORS: Say hello to the feature wall! We might have splashed colour on everything we could find in decades past, but here, we showed a little restraint. At the start of the decade, we looked fondly on the palettes of the late 90s (a glitzy apartment, in tones of black and gold, was one of our favourite spaces). Later, we embraced a new idea of interior sophistication. Taking trends from around the globe, we sought colour schemes that wouldn't end up passé at the end of the decade. Cream, black and neutral were bang on trend.

The most iconic piece of furniture in the home? Perspex furniture, according to John. It might have gone the way of inflatable furniture in later years, but some design elements certainly endured.

NOW IN A WORD: Streamlined EXTERIORS: The outdoors is in – literally. We're taking our post-war homes to new heights, giving them modern facelifts that nod to their colourful pasts. We're revamping warehouses and wool stores, keeping their bones exposed for a gritty, modern look. If we're building, we're going sleek and strong. No boxy homes here! Curving walls, plenty of glass, white with subtle trimming and dark, moody colours – we're in love.

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Warehouse styling – industrial touches with plenty of modern charm.

Photo: Scott Burrows

We're also incorporating outdoor living spaces into our lifestyles, celebrating the gorgeous Queensland outdoors as it deserves.

Glamorous pools, impeccable landscaping and kitchen gardens are all on our lust-lists, whether we're apartment-dwellers or call a house our home.

INTERIORS: The big-name houses we're seeing all celebrate one major theme – warehouse design. It's not a surprise here in Brisbane, at least! Plenty of designers are taking the plunge and scaling back on their interior schemes, choosing to keep the bare necessities and indulge in a colour scheme that's neutral and industrial, all at once. If there's colour, there's only one, not plenty crammed into one room.

More and more, people are after organic, natural design, with colours you'd see in the world outside making their way into bedrooms, living rooms, bathrooms… you name it.

Though that's not the only design element to hit the market. We're seeing a shift back to retro-inspired design (what goes around certainly does come around), with elements from the 60s and 70s having their moment in the limelight. "Trends that were de rigueur in the 60s have come back in a fresher, cleaner, brighter way," says Di Henshall, of Di Henshall Interior Design. "You might cringe if you mention tangerine, mission brown or eau de nil, but if you say flame, chocolate and pistachio to describe those colours today, they're fashionable and acceptable!"

Artists are making our homes look divine, with a street art influence going strong; in our kitchens, we're loving neutral white palettes with high-tech accessories. In a way, we're employing the 90s' tactic of anything goes – but we're hopefully doing it with even more style.

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Honest Living This ‘post post-war’ renovation is everything it should be – stylish and modern, with a classic touch that harkens back to its history and spirit.

WORDS: Natasha Pavez PHOTOGRAPHY: Scott Burrows

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"The idea was a simple one – reinvigorating a postwar house and maximising the natural attributes of a wonderful, leafy site."

So says Shaun Lockyer, director at Shaun Lockyer Architects (SLa). Although the post-war Bardon home was standing strong, it wasn't quite what this young family required – meaning a revamp that would see it emerge squarely aside its modern compatriots.

of Brisbane's iconic Arkhefield and four at South Africa’s internationally-renowned SAOTA. In addition to this, he has personal experience in renovating historical homes. His own post-war home renovation, completed a few years prior, was certainly a source of inspiration for this undertaking. "It showed me the potential of retention and reinvigoration, rather than removal and rebuild," he explains.

Since commencing in 2009, SLa has been focusing on creating memorable, sustainable and efficient homes; Shaun himself has over 20 years of international design experience, including nine years at the helm

And so, this home wasn't knocked to the ground and built anew. Its history inspired its redesign, creating a family home for Travis and Josie, their son Dash, and their smattering of dogs.

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“What inspired the colour scheme in the home?

Honesty and simplicity. We were true to the materials, making them shine yet still be timeless.�

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Simply Luxe Using Calacatta and Pietro Grey marble as accents throughout the home creates luxurious spaces that still shine in their simplicity.

The home’s considerable expansions were completed by Cullum Hughes of CGH Constructions (“He was unreal,” says Shaun), creating a home that really hasn’t lost any of its original flavour. As Shaun says, it's almost exactly as it was. "We tried to keep the base all in glass to retain the form of the original house," he says. "We didn't want to undermine what was there." The original home now sits atop wide open extensions, with white panelling creating a crisp, modern look. A dark timber band adds interest to the rosewood windows and doors, while below, a sun-flooded entry sequence forms a "gloriously bright and textural space".

Indoors, there's plenty of space for the family, with added hints of elegance to cater to the adults in the mix – a powder room, complementing four bedrooms and two bathrooms, is a modern must-have. However, the team embraced the design ethos of 'less is 92

more', using simply crafted materials offset by well-executed design.

"We stuck to basics," explains Shaun. "Timber, stone and concrete – that's what this project was all about." Spotted gum graces everything from the decking to the cabinetry, while polished concrete with grey cement and black aggregate adds a classic touch. It’s a blank canvas for changing interior design choices as the years go on.

Although Calacatta and Pietro Grey marble were used as high-end embellishments, the modernist philosophy grounding the home is truly evident. "What inspired the colour scheme in the home? Honesty and simplicity," he says. "We were true to the materials, making them shine yet still be timeless." From light fittings to wallpapers, flooring to ceilings, the home enjoys an utterly natural feel. "It's the modernist in me coming out," laughs Shaun. "The houses feel more timeless this way. We want our work to endure."

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And it certainly does, tucking neatly into this historical suburb with ease. Leafy parks and spacious homes are in abundance, with a peaceful, old-world vibe attracting plenty of young families. Like many post-war houses, the home is situated on a larger than average block; the redesign was to utilise as much land as possible. Of course, this was easier said than done. The 1174sqm block may look flat now, but don't be fooled. "The site was irregular in plan and twisted in sections – anything but flat in reality!" he says. "It was the most costly exercise, but the most valuable, too."

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So how does a post-war renovation succeed like this? It's all about knowing when to quit, says Shaun, and knowing the amount of time and effort that will go into creating a home that straddles the divide of new and old. "Do less, but do it well," he advises. "It's so hard to stop halfway when you know the potential of going the extra mile."

Planning the project meticulously also comes into play (six months of planning and design work for this renovation, compared to ten months of building), to ensure the end result is timeless and reflective of the huge amount of work that goes into it. And our favourite piece of advice? "Simplicity can be enjoyed through simple moves, beautifully executed."

The SLa trademark is homes that aren't affected by trends, and a cursory glance at the Bardon home sees that it, too, follows this ethos while staying true to its historical roots. "It's important to acknowledge our history, even if at times it seems uninspired," says Shaun. "We've retained the architectural form in a contemporary way, continuing this home's history and spirit in a refreshed and relevant style – which is why we call it a ‘post post-war’ home."

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Queensland Homes Autumn 2015 // queensland foodie news feature

Gourmet

TAKE NOTE Ever since she popped a pinch of pepper in her meringue, we've been utterly enthralled by what comes out of Rachel Khoo's kitchen.

Now, we've got a personal look. Rachel Khoo's Kitchen Notebook is a record of the culinary maven's recipes, ideas, photographs and foodie illustrations, giving us all the inspiration we need for our next dinner party (or three). Our recipe of choice has to be the happy-boosting honeyroasted peach crema Catalana – sounds divine, don't you think? RRP $39.99, Penguin Books.

News Launches, events and foodie news.

A FEast for the senses Get cooking on the Sunshine Coast and discover the flavours of Noosa. Life's A Feast, one of the Sunshine Coast's most popular cooking schools, is keeping it local by creating one-of-a-kind meals using produce from the legendary Noosa Farmers Market. Experience the abundance of incredible fresh feeds available in the area (from fish to fruit, Noosa's got it covered) and head home with a bundle of new recipes to try.

Perfect for visitors and longstanding locals alike. March 15. lifesafeast.com.au

purely putia Culinary goddess Dominique Rizzo has the QH team completely tantalised with her brand-new gourmet destination, Putia. Not just a cooking school and not just a restaurant, the locale is instead a multipurpose space for feasting, learning and creating one-of-a-kind dishes. You'll also be able to buy some hand picked, handmade and handcrafted products straight from the Putia Pantry. With a focus on pure food and inspiration in the kitchen, garden and beyond, Putia is one space we'll be checking out. putiapurefood.com.au

¡Que RICO! As the sun sets over the shimmering Brisbane River, there's nothing we'd rather be doing than indulging in casual tapas with friends. Olé's hugely popular Sunset Tapas nights are set to continue in 2015, with the sangria flowing freely and the flavours intense and lush. Choose two signature tapas dishes and two raciones, pour a glass of sangria, then let your weekday worries just drift away. Sunday – Thursday, 5 to 7pm. olerestaurant.com.au

The food outdoors Food, glorious food, all on show in the picturesque Felton Valley – you're in for a feast. QH checked out the 2014 Felton Food Festival and were absolutely salivating all the while. For the record, haloumi drizzled in honey was a serious crowd-pleaser. And as an added bonus, you'll be able to check out two familiar faces in the worlds of gourmands and gardeners. Chef Alistar MacLeod (Bretts Wharf, Tank Restaurant) and bearded landscape architect Costa Georgardis (Gardening Australia) will once again be making appearances. Mark this weekend off as booked! April 12. feltonfoodfestival.org.au 194

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CULTURED A dose of Queensland arts & craft, exhibitions and performances to satiate the soul.

Photo: Atmosphere Photography

STyle Icons Country life Continuing a nearly 40 year long tradition, Easter in the Country is on again this April. If you hail from the city, this festival is a great way to see Queensland's country roots. Get the adrenalin coursing through your veins with a range of activities designed for thrill seekers, explore Roma's unique culture, or just stroll around the festival and indulge in some leisurely outback hospitality. April 2-6. easterinthecountryroma.com.au

Into the woods A story of love, loss and sylphs, La Sylphide is an ethereal, centuries-old tale that'll certainly have you enchanted. Woken on his wedding day by a beautiful winged sylph, James is captivated. He leaves his fiancée, following the Sylph into an otherworldly realm of forest sprites. Since premiering in 1836, this graceful, dramatic ballet has bewitched audiences, and this Peter Schaufuss production (playing to global audiences for over 30 years) simply can't be missed. March 20–31. queenslandballet.com.au 188

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Glitz, glamour and the silver screen? You guessed it, we're taking a look at Hollywood's golden age. Known for its endless opulence and red-carpet sweethearts, it's also famed for the incredible costumes hand-created by some of the best in the business. The Museum of Brisbane's upcoming exhibition, Costumes from the Golden Age of Hollywood, is a look at a stunning private collection featuring costumes worn from the 20s to the 60s. Until May 24. museumofbrisbane.com.au

Tune News Autumn means music in Queensland – check out the talent that will be visiting your area.

Vance Joy: Gold Coast Arts Centre, Surfers Paradise – March 5 The Tivoli, Brisbane – March 6 Nambour Civic Centre, Nambour – March 7 Dan Sultan: Powerhouse Theatre, Brisbane – March 10 Gold Coast Arts Centre, Surfers Paradise – March 11 Michael Franti & Spearhead: The Tivoli, Brisbane – April 10 Mavis Staples: Powerhouse Theatre, Brisbane – April 8 Angelique Kidjo: Powerhouse Theatre, Brisbane – April 4 Jake Shimabakuro: Powerhouse Theatre, Brisbane – April 2

Queensland Homes Autumn 2015 // queensland lifestyle news feature

LIFESTYLE

Acrobatic art

kid spot After the huge success of its inaugural festival, the Cairns Children’s Festival is back again for an ‘out of this world’ experience. Check out performers (including popular children’s group The Listies), artists, theatre, and market stalls, or pick up some new skills at a workshop or two. It’s a celebration of learning, play, curiosity and discovery – the perfect event for some weekend entertainment. May 10. tanksartscentre.com

roll film

Inspired by age-old tales of the world's mystical origins, Cirque Du Soleil's newest show, TOTEM, is pure fascination.

Awe-inspiring acrobatic stunts meet incredible visuals in true Cirque Du Soleil style, creating a piece that's described as "somewhere between science and legend". Artistic, unique and completely mesmerising, it's a production that certainly needs to be seen.

April 10-May 17. cirquedusoleil.com

Photo: OSA Images

Sit back and grab the popcorn, as the Gold Coast Film Festival is once again hitting those shimmering coastal shores. Celebrating all aspects of film and the work that goes into them, the GCFF is offering a multitude of films to whet your appetite. Dramas, comedies, indie films and family films – and don't forget the anime – will be on show for festivalgoers. Keep an eye out on their website for further info.

April 9-19. gcfilmfestival.com

journey of nomads Embark on a nomadic adventure with a storyteller as your guide. Tim Cope, author of On the Trail of Genghis Khan, describes his incredible journey following in the footsteps of the ancient Mongol tribe.

Fending off wolves and horse-thieves, travelling 10,000 kilometres on horseback, and enduring the ever-changing landscapes before him – Tim's got a fascinating tale to tell, and exclusive personal images to take you on the path with him. April 28. brisbanepowerhouse.org queenslandhomes.com.au

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Warehouse Warmth

What happens when an architect puts pencil to blueprint to design his own abode? Sleek, fashionable design that will call you home.

WORDS: Natasha Pavez PHOTOGRAPHY: Scott Burrows

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Entering through a rusted steel gate, you notice this house is like no other around it. Where most houses in Paddington embrace their historic features – peeling paint, hipped roofs, timber all around – this home finds its roots firmly in modern times.

breezes and views.” Different to any of the larger, multi-residential projects they’d worked on before, Mason and Jen were excited about the opportunity to design and experiment for their own needs, within their own budget restraints.

Designed by Ellivo Architects’ principal, Mason Cowle, the home was to be a minimalist haven for the architect, his wife Jen, and their daughter Kelsey. Where their previous family home had been designed in artful wood tones with a ‘beachhouse’ feel, Mason knew he wanted something entirely different for their new residence. “A relaxed, low maintenance family retreat in the city,” he explains, “open to the

The block of land was purchased in December 2011, small by most standards at 400 square metres. The Cowle family wasn’t the only occupant on this site, either. A century-old fig tree had put down firm roots, and its heritage protection meant it wasn’t getting moved any time soon. The block was also on quite a steep slope, with heritage listed neighbours either side.

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Over Christmas that same year, the initial design came together – rather quickly, Mason says – and continued being tweaked until October 2012, when construction by JBS Builders began.

Mason describes the home as a ‘procession of five distinct spaces’, allowing the family to live in different spaces according to their different moods, or changing seasons throughout the year. An industrial, New York-esque feel permeates the entire design, driven by the burnished concrete work throughout the home. It’s divided design that’s also completely harmonious, and it’s what truly carries the space as a whole.

Underneath the fig tree’s wide canopy lies an entertaining area, which leads into the kitchen through wide bifold doors.

The kitchen is seamless in its design, with all appliances hidden behind sleek, dark cabinetry. The family can sit at the wide island bench to enjoy a casual meal, or move into the adjoining dining room for more formal affairs. The dining room is double-height, linking both vertically to the master suite, and horizontally to the home’s entertaining areas, or ‘meeting point’. Lights sourced from a warehouse in Gympie hang over the dining table, in an invigorating shade of bright jade.

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It was important the materials used be ‘raw’, allowed to age and weather as they would if exposed to the elements...

While the living room’s wide glass doors provide sweeping views across the city and Paddington, they also offer another purpose. When pushed back, breezes are let in, and the area transitions from being indoors to being a luxurious outdoor area, connected to a balcony and additional outdoor space, overlooking the pool below. With 16 metres of glass across the expanse, Mason recalls it was difficult to get anyone to install the pieces, though the end result would have to be utterly worth it.

Custom fabricated folded steel staircases (one of Mason’s favourite features, he tells us, and even more striking when viewed from underneath) lead upstairs to the master sanctuary. The stairs were welded inhouse, rusted artfully to add character to the home.

The master bedroom is as open plan as the living spaces below; only a shower steam room is behind closed doors, tucked into a little nook away from the rest of the living space. One design feature that’s particularly eye-catching is the steel headboard, curving gently around the bedhead to add softness to the industrial design. Contrasting with the plethora of pillows and the cosiness on the bed, the printed steel also features a unique touch that just had to be showcased – stamped numbers that correspond with the home’s street number, a purely coincidental touch. The bathtub hides behind this bedhead, luxuriously deep with overhead lighting that dims to be as ambient as having candles scattered around.

This loft-style space overlooks the living areas below, yet also created a void in the home that needed to be filled. Deciding what should be placed in this prime

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position – which would have to be both functional yet as aesthetically appealing as the rest of the home – was an easy decision, Jen says. “We wanted to incorporate a library somewhere. Placing the books at a height and with a ladder made good use of this space.” It’s hard not to fall in love with this modern take on a classic library, and hard not to admire this ingenious use of space. And the ladder chosen to connect the avid reader with their books just finishes the look, with recycled timber and cracking, flaking paint feeling both industrial and historic.

Downstairs, more bedrooms are revealed, plus an additional living room and study for Kelsey. Minimally decorated, Mason points out the ceilings of the space as we walk through – the burnished concrete, which makes its feature on the floors above, becomes ceiling in these lower spaces. Everything is hidden away, out of sight so electronics and pumps (the unsightly ingredients to keeping the home running) don’t spoil the overall effect. The downstairs living and private spaces connect to the outdoors, where a small pool lies at the end of a rock-strewn path. The family might not be big swimmers, but in the midst of Brisbane’s summer humidity it will certainly be a welcome addition.

Down those steel steps once more, and the final part of the home is unearthed – ample storage (or another bedroom if need be) and the garage. Tucking the garage away from the front of the home was only possible due to an existing laneway at the side of the house, letting the home be set back from the road and allow its heritage neighbours to shine.

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Bathrooms, too, are styled to perfection. To keep with the warehouse feel, lights are kept deliberately low, and basins are formed from brass. The powder room is particularly stunning, a jaw-dropping room which incites considerable envy when seen. As it exists in its own space, the room became an experiment. Dim lights hang over the brass sink, while a fireman’s tap finds its new home providing water here.

Mason was fully involved in sourcing materials for the home (“though the builder was very helpful in providing useful alternatives,” he says); determined to use steel wherever wood was normally used, it was important the materials used be ‘raw’, allowed to age and weather as they would if exposed to the elements. The resulting handmade steel handrails and features around the home look industrial, yet appropriately historic for Paddington.

In many cases, Jen says, the structural materials became the aesthetic finish – just look at the heavy beam below the bookcase as an example of how well it works.

And in keeping with the history of Paddington while being modern? Black stained vertical cladding lets the home rest comfortably in the background, while weatherboards, tin and fine detailing complements the existing homes without resorting to mimicry.

It’s minimalist design, yet with all the warmth of the houses that have graced these streets for decades.

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From the Ashes Age and fire might have hinted at disaster for the historic Hanworth House, but a devoted team ensured it lives on in splendour.

WORDS: Natasha Pavez PHOTOGRAPHY: John Downs It's always a question just what you'll find in a 150-year old, heritage listed home. Will it be something from the pages of a Jane Austen novel, with gilded walls and ornate cornices? Or will it be neglected, stuck in the past without its majesty?

You don't find the latter option at Hanworth House, but it's almost as though you don't find the former either. Owner Marisa Vecchio has taken the house firmly into the 21st century, yet with nods to the home's colourful past that give it a definite old-world character.

Hanworth's history begins in 1864 with George Heath, Brisbane's first portmaster. This prestigious family home epitomised the finest in 1860s architecture, designed by famed architect James Colishaw. It was later tenanted until 1913, when it was sold to Mary Weinholt. She repurposed Hanworth as a home for 'impecunious gentlewomen' before bequeathing it to the Theosophical Society, who passed the reins to the Anglican Church. Over time, Hanworth became overgrown and hidden from all who walked past.

There was no emotional connection for Marisa when she purchased the home in 2012, despite buying it in memory of her mother, Romana, who had passed away earlier that year. "It was more rational than anything else," she explains. "A 19 bedroom house – what might I do with that?"

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Austruct was the natural choice as builder for this project. Having worked with Marisa on various commercial projects and a small renovation, the two were a natural fit in restoring the home to its former glory. The process was 'organic', with heritage compliance restrictions turning into opportunities to be creative with how the home evolved.

"We committed, it is what it is," Marisa explains. The team decided early on to use Hanworth’s longstanding elements to create a luxe take on a boarding house that would suit both its owner and its occupants equally. Once this was decided, it was easy – rooms really only needed a refresh.

Only two weeks from opening, the home was struck by an arsonist.

Engulfed in flames, 70-80% of Hanworth was severely damaged, destroying almost everything in the fire-damaged rooms. Fireplaces melted, furnishings turned to ash, and the next six months were "dark and lonely days". The longer the home went without being restored to its former glory, the more it disintegrated, a source of major concern for the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection.

Despite this adversity, Marisa, Robin Spencer Architects and the rest of the team rallied together to work on the home once more.

"We never thought of giving up," says Marisa. "It would have been an absolute disaster." Back to the drawing board, the group investigated their options, but it was unanimous – the original plan had to be carried out, and Hanworth's character given a chance to shine once more.

Walking through the home now, only moments after its 150th anniversary (celebrated with an onsite ball in the epitome of old-world luxe), it's almost impossible to imagine the home being rubble and ash.

The main ballroom features silver and white striped wallpaper, offset with a feature wall surrounding the marble fireplace in Resene Sensual Red (Marisa's contemporary take on heritage red). Antique furniture from Botticelli House – including 1920s French parlour chairs in blue velvet – ties the home firmly to its age-old roots. Continuing the touches of antique glamour meeting modern charm, a monogrammed New Zealand wool rug takes centre stage in the ballroom, featuring the official Hanworth crest. This, and two other rugs (soon to be a third), have been custom-made by Gilles and Franck.

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The dining room adjoins the ballroom, and in here a miracle has occurred – despite the room being gutted by flames, the original 1860s floorboards survived. A fireplace and antique dining table give the room its sense of character, which continues into one of the three kitchens.

Designed and constructed by Burgess Kitchens in a classic and tasteful wood and marble combination, the other kitchens use a similar theme which would be as at home in the 1860s as it is now.

Although the home's boardinghouse days saw it boasting 19 bedrooms, Marisa has added an additional wing, including 8 extra bedrooms. Each has been decorated simply, paying homage to the hospice roots through darling Incy beds in mint green, pink and yellow. Accessories from Botticelli House add a cosy touch of home.

When you walk through to yet another wing in the home from its earlier days, there's history lurking everywhere, including on one of the walls. Layers of paint, dating back to various periods in Hanworth's life, have been glassed over, preserving them for curious eyes. Upstairs, this wing houses Marisa's office, decorated in sumptuous purple and white for a room that's certainly befitting the lady of Hanworth House. Although the room itself is a dream – windows looking out over Hanworth's new galvanised steel roofs, paired with sloping ceilings – it's Austruct's post-fire discovery that really steals the show.

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Hidden away in the ceiling, so seamlessly you almost don't notice it, is an opening that houses a ladder leading to the roof and stunning views of the city. At one time, there would have been views which stretched along the Brisbane River as it snakes down to Norman Park. "We were perplexed about where Captain Heath watched the ships on the river," Marisa says. "We realised he must have watched them there."

Bi-fold doors lead to the verandah wrapping around the home, the perfect vantage point for garden views. A&R Evergreen, who provided the landscaping solutions, created gardens with plenty of charm that harken back to the country gardens of Heath's English homeland.

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Purple camellias and hydrangeas signify the international colour for women, while roses offer a sentimental touch ("my mother's favourite," Marisa says). Trawling through the history books led to the discovery of a citrus grove and grapefruit tree adorning the backyard, so these, too, were planted. You can already imagine the bursts of colour which will provide a stunning view when glancing out the frameless glass windows, provided by Queensland Sashless Windows.

Although it may seem as though Hanworth has changed significantly, its heart remains the same, a fact which Marisa is proud of. "I'm proud to say it is what it always was," she says. "It's just up a notch."

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Shine a Light Lime, blue and pink are the colours that have us dreaming of a funfilled summer! These bright pendant lights are the perfect addition to any kid's space, especially in the warmer months. Made from certified Australian hoop pine, the Quarterium 'Double-Dipped' pendant lights are fun, eye-catching and completely cute. $350 through Lifestyle Home and Living. lifestylehomeandliving.com.au

A Dog Eat Dog World Packed lunches can be fun when you've got an adorable lunch tote to carry around!

Biome Eco Stores' Fit and Fresh insulated lunch bags come with extra-thick insulation, a magnetic button closure and a large reusable ice pack. Teamed with the adorable puppy and kitten designs, you're onto a lunchtime winner. $30.95, biome.com.au

Cloud Nine When your tiny tots travel along to dreamland, this mobile will encourage sweet dreams along the way. Customise with your child's name for a treasured keepsake – one that will last all the way from the nursery, right to teen years. Made from wood and strung together with coloured cord, you can hang it from the ceiling or hang it on the wall.

Approx. $45 from Scamp Baby Gifts. wearescamp.co.uk

Child’s

Play Let their imagination run wild and free with these cute and cool ideas for play and rest.

Wham! Bang! Pow! Embrace the superhero craze with these handmade letter blocks, crafted using old comics and sturdy cardstock. You can create your child's name or simply use one on its own as a decorative feature.

You can even get letters made up from comics of your choosing – perfect if your child loves a certain superhero.

Available in medium and large letters from Down That Little Lane. $37.25, downthatlittlelane.com.au

Print Perfect Some musical inspiration never goes astray, so we love EvieTheElephant's gorgeous Beatles-inspired print. The quote might be summer-worthy but this print will happily hang on your kid's walls all year round. As each one is made individually, you can choose your own colour scheme… though we're pretty inspired by the rainbow brights seen here. $30 without frame + shipping, etsy.com/shop/evietheelephant 34

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DESIGN & DECOR

Cosy Up

Rainbow Bright

Give your kids a comfy space to read their books with this darling buttoned salon chair. Made from pure linen, it perches on curved cabriole legs to add a bit of French Provincial style to their room.

It's a timeless design that will last, no matter how their tastes change. $490 from Lavender Hill Interiors. lavenderhillinteriors.com.au

Red, yellow, pink, green, purple, orange, blue… those are the colours of the rainbow, and those are the colours on Blink Designs’ gorgeous wall hanging. Created from long-lasting vinyl with a timber dowel and hanging cord, it channels an old-school class chart while still being completely beautiful and fun for your kids. $60, blinkdesigns.com.au

Camp out Pitch this tent in your backyard for hours of laughter and fun during the holidays! The Blue Waves Wonder Tent brings a beachy feel to the garden thanks to its bubbly blue and white water pattern from Danish designer Jessica Nielsen. It's a sturdy design – high quality American maple wood and organic cotton canvas see to that – and is flat packed for easy storage. $298.95 from Such Great Heights. suchgreatheights.com

Rock and Roll Nothing epitomises childhood quite as much as a rocking horse, and these luxurious numbers from Little Bird Told Me are certainly ones to behold. The Chester & Fred rocking horse, made from houndstooth fabric in a classic coffee-and-gold combo, stands on a walnut stained bow base with matching handles. Your children can 'brush' Chester's faux suede mane and tail, and sit atop the leatherette saddle (complete with matching bridle). When they've finished rocking, his teddy bear friend Fred will be there to ensure hours more play. $280, available from kidstuff.com.au queenslandhomes.com.au

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LIVING WITH

Soul

Imagine taking ten years to get your home renovated. Now, imagine doing every little painstaking detail yourself. That was reality for Trevor and Paulene, whose Yerongpilly home was a labour of love from the get-go.

WORDS: Natasha Pavez PHOTOGRAPHY: John Downs

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Welcome Home With a classic Queenslander colour scheme and lots of delightful nooks and details, this is a home with real charm.

Trevor and Paulene bought the old Queenslander with the intention to renovate quickly and sell, never expecting to fall in love with the house. “We’d come from this lovely, brand-new home to this one that needed a lot of work,” Paulene explains. “We both woke up the first morning thinking, ‘Oh no, what have we done!’”

The brief changed over time: initially, the couple were solely focused on renovating downstairs, and Trevor obtained his owner/ builder licence to start construction himself. But living upstairs while renovations continued downstairs gave Paulene plenty of ideas on just what could be improved elsewhere. The couple sketched the designs themselves before passing them onto a draftsman. "Once we got our approvals, we just started," says Trevor. Walls came down, living spaces opened up, and little by little, the transformation begun. The design was organic, evolving to suit the couple's needs as they spent more and more time in the place.

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hadn’t worked in the trade for 35 years. "But as I progressed and got more confident, it got to the point that I could just do it. It wasn't a drama."

The renovation became a community affair, with friends, family members and even neighbours assisting when needed. Trevor and Paulene's son, Tony, is an engineer (which was handy when calculating materials – "It's really good having an engineer in the family!" Paulene laughs). Family friend Eric assisted with laying the timber for the new deck, while a neighbour helped Trevor place steel beams along the roof.

The couple's love for recycled and second-hand materials also helped foster new relationships. "The stairs came from a house being demolished on Brisbane's north side, and he was selling anything that could be saved," says Paulene.

With the project progressing over such a long period of time, any sense of budget had to be scrapped. Paulene and Trevor paid for the home as they went, renovating whenever they could and having the time to decide exactly what was needed.

Although the house has mainly been renovated using recycled materials – the aforementioned stairs, a stunning divider between the living and dining areas, and the decking outside have all been second-hand sources – the house also takes advantage of new pieces.

The folding French doors leading out to the deck, sourced from Woodworkers, perfectly fit the house's character.

Aside from plumbers and electricians, Trevor was responsible for the renovation from beginning to end. "It'd been a long time since I'd done any carpentry work," says Trevor, who had completed an apprenticeship in carpentry and joinery after finishing school, but

Finding inspiration in their year spent living and working in England, to their travels around to world, and even open houses around Brisbane, the overall renovation and design is a reflection of the life the couple have spent together.

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The design was organic, evolving to suit the couple’s needs as they spent more time in the place.

An Entertainer’s Delight Windows from the kitchen now open on to the large enclosed verandah, so Paulene can still chat to guests while cooking.

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Ten years might seem like aeons for a renovation, but it certainly worked in the couple's favour. After all, making hasty decisions would have hindered the renovation in the long run. Renovating while living in the house let Trevor and Paulene in on the little secrets, and they took advantage of everything it had to offer. Discovering the flow of breezes was important, as was making sure the sun hit the deck for the ultimate place to bask on a winter's day. The result? A beautiful enclosed deck – able to be used in all seasons, for any occasion. (The couple's ginger cat, Harry, loves to bask in this room when the sun hits just right!).

When asked if the renovation's complete, the couple are quick to answer. "Yes!" says Trevor. "We're just doing landscaping now. No more construction." The house is carrying the same feel from the inside out, with Trevor using some of the leftover wood in the landscaping. "I'm a hoarder, especially with wood. I don't like parting with it!"

Paulene may laughingly describe the home as "a real hodgepodge", but every tiny detail comes together to give this house a sense of real charm. Or, to quote a friend of Trevor and Paulene, the house has simply got "soul".

Pale green paint complements the bush surrounds, while indoors, Trevor's handiwork (think natural recycled timber flooring and crisp white cabinetry) meets Paulene's homey yet chic accents (soft textiles and understated artworks), effortlessly working together just as the couple no doubt do after 47 years of marriage!

It's a home that truly welcomes all who walk in, reflecting the love that this couple has poured into every inch of it.

"We're really attached to it," says Trevor. "We're going to have to leave one day, but I'm going to hate it when we have to go."

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Riverside Relaxation A throwback to Brisbane’s unique river history, this modern home is a balance of industrial cool and natural warmth.

WORDS: Natasha Pavez

The Brisbane River has long been entwined in the lives of all those that call this gorgeous city home, and its influence can be seen all along its banks. Once upon a time when Brisbane enjoyed a more thriving riparian industry, boat building sheds lined the river, especially in trendy Bulimba. These industrial sheds loomed along the skyline and only added to the character of this riverside suburb. So, it was only natural that Dave and Cindy, the owners of this subtropical home, gleaned inspiration from these roots.

Although the maritime allusion is evident in every facet of this home, Aquatonic – the architects behind this impressive project – were sure to make it a liveable space, perfect for Brisbane's humid subtropics and laid-back lifestyle. "Its design takes cues from the prevailing maritime history of the Brisbane riverbank and explicitly makes it connection to the river," says architect Marco Giaroli. "It's a house that connects well with the river, and also sits comfortably within its streetscape and riverscape."

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Separate living, utility and private spaces make the house ideal for a family, adding a creative twist to the industrial-esque feel evoked by the shed-like exterior. As the interior follows these same straight lines – think high, angular ceilings, solid timber walls and timber floors – that same ‘feel’ carries through to the interior, a design detail which the architect has played on. The private spaces are suspended over the living areas "like a boat hull under construction," says Marco, an evocative image which we absolutely love. You can see the historical touches all over, tied up neatly with a modern city base.

An especially nice feature? The gantry-style staircase, acting as both a dividing and transitioning piece. The glass railing, industrial-chic steel, and warm timber steps are a marriage of Brisbane's past and present, and will carry it well into the future.

Downstairs, the home boasts a striking kitchen, designed by Chloe Quintal for Garsden and Clarke Kitchens. By working in tandem with Aquatonic, the boathouse-themed kitchen is a seamless feature, purely

HEALY HOMES & AQUATONIC ARCHITECTURE | PROJECT

enhancing the home's aesthetic appeal. The timber veneer cabinetry merges smoothly with the timber walls, while the benchtop allows both food preparation and casual seating to occur simultaneously, thanks to its ample space.

Chloe aimed for flowing access around this space, absolutely necessary in any well-functioning kitchen, and has furthered this through all appliances being neatly tucked away and flush against benches and walls. Versatile storage, such as Blum's Tandembox system, allows culinary mavens easy access to all their kitchenware – yet also keeps clutter hidden away. It's a kitchen that has been described as warm, welcoming and visually impressive, and we can't help but agree (especially considering it opens onto views of the Brisbane River!).

The home was built by David Healy of Healy Homes, whose experience working on highly-detailed, custom-built homes made him the perfect builder to complete this project. "Once I met the clients I was instantly drawn to the project by their passion and enthusiasm to create this unique home," says David.

Working on the home was a major undertaking, but David, the clients and Aquatonic were all up to the task. "On such a highly detailed project such as this one, you end up having a lot of meetings with the clients and architects to go over the details," David explains. "We would meet on-site at least twice a week to discuss the project."

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David's attention-to-detail certainly served the project well, with even the most challenging components of the project viewed as a highlight: "I loved working with the many different finishes used on the project," says David.

Almost every part of the 535m² block has been utilised, and while the home might be large, it's a stunning display of design and building techniques, fully personalised for the Brisbane lifestyle. The river is experienced from the moment you enter the front door until you exit onto the back deck and wander down to the private jetty. Indoors, the river is almost a design feature thanks to the stunning frameless glass doors from Lotus Doors. Designed to connect the living area to the outdoor deck and pool, it also takes advantage of those luxurious river views. Bonus points: the doors are completely weather resistant – a must with Brisbane's oft-abrupt weather changes!

or your fellow guests as you entertain. Glass fencing continues the 'invisibility' theme, allowing those on the deck to get the full view of their riverfront surrounds. And night or day, this space is fully functional – those pool lights, adding a chic purple hue to the deep blue water, are almost something out of a world-class resort.

From timber boats of old to majestic steel sheds, this home has managed to beautifully combine all the core elements of Brisbane's long river history. “This is a house that works well with its inhabitants, its site, its context and its climate," says Marco. "It is a house that will be admired for a long time to come."

For David, it's an absolute no-brainer – this is definitely his favourite feature of the home. "The kitchen and living room is a great credit to the design," he says. "The fact that you can open the large sliding and bi-fold doors to the entire area gives the feeling you're out on the river itself."

HEALY HOMES Phone: 0417 766 725

The Aquatonic-designed pool has also received a creative touch, with an acrylic wall facing the house turning it into an entertainment feature of many sorts. Whether underwater or above, you can glimpse the house

AQUATONIC ARCHITECTURE Phone: 07 3368 2833

GARSDEN & CLARKE KITCHENS Phone: 07 3823 3977 LOTUS DOORS Phone: 07 3260 1110 139

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The American Dream There’s no doubt about it – from beginning to end, this Wilston home was destined to embody an American feel.

WORDS: Natasha Pavez PHOTOGRAPHY: John Downs

Don't believe us? Owner Kathryn let QH in on the house's past – this double block once housed a 1960s Californian bungalow.

"It had a beautiful feel, but was in need of renovation," she reveals. "Once we got our quote for a renovation, our builder kindly told us it would be much cheaper to knock it down and start again."

Luckily, Kathryn and her husband Graham weren't fazed by this, knowing exactly what they wanted their new home to look like.

Downstairs living, an upstairs loft, and plenty of space for a family to grow – and, of course, the American touch outside, which Kathryn describes as an absolute must-have. Knowing she wanted a similar bungalow theme in her new home, hunting for designs to fully capture this became a priority. "We looked everywhere for images and it was really hard to find. Eventually we found it," she says, laughing. "It was a house on TV and I snapped a picture with my phone!"

Other than these specifications, building designer Ben Phillips from Lifebox was given free reign to design a home that absolutely suited the family's needs. "The site itself was easy, as we could remove the existing house on-site without too many planning issues," Ben recalls. "We organised and managed all consultants involved with the pre-building approvals." In addition to this, Lifebox completed an initial concept design, town planning drawings and building approval drawings, ensuring every detail was managed for the project to progress without a hitch.

From there, the reins were handed to Nutide, helmed by Ray Toaldo. "I could not have asked for a better builder," says Kathryn. "He really thinks about things. When there was a slight hiccup, he would come up with something to remedy it." Ray helped the couple make decisions along the way, from the smallest essentials (think door locks and handles) to the large, such as including a stunning wooden

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seat out on the back deck. Once again, every little detail was considered, creating a house that Kathryn and Graham (along with their children Evie and Sam) love to call home. "Ray had extra people and extra time, so he did everything for us, including building the cubby house."

Kathryn's dream loft was crafted beautifully, enhanced by frameless glass from Euroglass. The upstairs bedrooms look down onto the downstairs living area, creating a sense of seamlessness which flows with ease onto the deck outside. Here, a large play area for the children – and large entertaining area for the adults – can be found. Resting alongside the beautifully manicured yard is a pool, matching the home's grey tones through silver Travertine tiling and additional frameless glass from Euroglass. The waterslide is also a “huge hit” with Evie and Sam! The yard can be used year-round, thanks to Kathryn and Graham's insistence on a north-facing aspect. "We'd go to inspect houses that we loved, but because the back wasn't facing north, it wasn't the right house for us." Summertime sunlight creates a beautifully bright space for the family to enjoy, especially due to large skylights indoors; in winter, the interior is toasty warm.

The home definitely takes full advantage of Queensland's bountiful light!

Adding those little details that transform a house to a home is incredibly important, especially when trying to incorporate a theme throughout. Enter Estelle Elliott Designs, on Ben's recommendation, who gave the home the interior touches it needed. "I met with Estelle and just instantly knew," Kathryn says. "We ended up trusting her with everything!"

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theme, providing on-call services throughout the entire build. Kathryn is particularly enthralled by Estelle's cabinetry designs (“Totally worth it!” she enthuses), and the stairs leading to the upstairs bedrooms. "They're classic but interesting," says Estelle, adding that this focal point was crafted by Slattery & Acquroff Stairs.

When asked about their favourite elements in the home, Kathryn and Estelle answer differently, though both agree it's incredibly difficult to limit themselves to one feature! "I love the chair out the front," says Kathryn – and it's no wonder. This swoon-worthy hanging chair is reminiscent of American farm-style homes, and is the perfect place to snuggle up with a blanket and cup of tea. Estelle, meanwhile, loves the custom designed archway; its moulding detail provides an 'ornate grandness' as you enter the home. Another feature the family adores is the dining room's feature wall, designed in tandem by Ray and Estelle. "Wallpapering the dining wall and hanging three heavy gold mirror elements on a wall that had a sliding door and no line to finish the wallpaper was a challenge," Estelle reveals.

Working together, a large panel was constructed to take the mirrors' load without interfering with the sliding doors. "It was the perfect solution – and a unique wallpaper feature!"

For Estelle, working with Kathryn, Graham and Ray was wonderful.

"They were open to ideas and suggestions, and Ray's attention-to-detail provided an exceptional, outstanding home." Kathryn agrees, loving what the design and build team created for her. "Coming home and having a place that's really easy to live in is an absolute joy," she says. "And I love how it looks out the front!"

This home will certainly stand the test of time, taking this family through every stage of life with ease. And, of course, with that laid-back Californian feel.

INTERIOR DESIGN: ESTELLE ELLIOTT DESIGNS Phone: 07 3892 7776 BUILDING: NUTIDE CONSTRUCTIONS Phone: 07 3861 4676 BUILDING DESIGN: LIFEBOX DESIGN Phone: 07 3315 5611 130

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Where Old Meets New Natural, timeless, and downright gorgeous – those are words that spring to mind when looking at this pre-war home.

WORDS: Natasha Pavez PHOTOGRAPHY: John Downs When looking at most renovated homes, it’s easy to see exactly where the old house once sat, especially when it has to be retained. But this Camp Hill home is a seamless blend of old and new, with a classic, natural feel throughout.

For owner Danielle, it was important the house kept the character of its previous life, while taking on a Hamptons-style look. Project architect John Cunningham, of Cunningham Designs, describes this as a first. “It was unusual that it had to actually retain the character and carry that through the whole house,” he explains. “It’s not old, it’s not new – it’s in between.” Danielle knew that she could leave the design up to John and return to the home she dreamed of. Finding a builder was the next step, and in came Duayne Pearce of D Pearce Constructions.

“We were always going to have Duayne because John spoke so highly of him,” Danielle recalls. “And it was completely justified.”

To achieve the Hamptons look, the house has been built with recycled and natural materials. The result?

A classic atmosphere that will stay in style for years to come. To carry the natural style through the home, stone walls were added to define the living and dining rooms. Bretts Architectural Solutions fit custom-made commercial-framed glazing around the feature wall to let in light. For John, this is the defining feature of the home: “It forms a nice feature, while

also offering lots of privacy.” Continuing the classic yet earthy feel, the stone motif is scattered throughout the home, both inside and out.

Downstairs in the cellar, there’s a different look. To give this room the same touch as the rest of the house, Duayne cleverly sourced more recycled materials, including bricks from an old Melbourne cottage.

Exposed brick walls give the room a rustic feel, while metal light fittings and wine racks modernise the look.

Using recycled wood to frame the wine racks softens the rough feature – an old-fashioned room that’s still completely at home in the 21st century.

Upstairs, the house has maximised its location, utilising the block to its best advantage. Spacious decks use the north-facing aspect, giving the family entertainment areas that can be used all year round. Both areas contain built-in barbecues, and the upstairs balcony has stunning city views. The aluminium cavity stacker doors were manufactured

by Bretts Architectural Window Solutions, who were also responsible for the custom-made aluminium casement windows and French doors on the façade, perfectly keeping in with the pre-war architecture.

Best of all for Danielle, the sliding doors recede into the walls – with all the doors pushed back, there is virtually no back wall on the house. “The combination of the space, the airiness and the openness is beautiful,” she says. “The flow is fantastic.”

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Queensland Homes Winter 2014 // project editorial

And that’s the only way to describe the house – it just flows. From the flooring to the abundance of windows and glass balustrading, there’s a sense of continuity to this home that very few renovated houses have. Rather than installing a more common narrow board parquet floor, a traditional European wide board parquetry pattern in a beautiful French Oak was installed by a skilled French parquet specialist from Queensland Timber Floors. The skill and attention applied to this job gave spectacular results, enhancing the French Oak’s unique grain features while blending in with the home’s clean lines. It’s a subtle nod to the residence’s classic appeal.

Developed by Saveways, the kitchen comes complete with a butler’s pantry and exceptional storage. Although Danielle doesn’t spend all her time in the kitchen, she wanted a place where she could comfortably cook. Now, everything is at her fingertips. Finished in a satin two-pack with a Quantum Quartz bench top, the sleek and glamorous galley-style kitchen effortlessly blends in with the classic interior. To finish the design in lavish form, Saveways has also installed a solid timber tabletop in European Beech, supported by a stone pedestal – the same stone seen throughout the home.

Every room takes advantage of natural light, while pale paint colours allow a neutral backdrop in every room – perfect for a whole range of styles. Thanks to Melinda Williams from Domayne, the house has been expertly styled, from the light fittings to the décor.

Duayne also went the extra mile in sourcing products to complete the home, and the results are beautiful, offering unique yet classic

touches. Individually pressed tiles, purchased through Uptiles, grace the powder room walls, while the modern, sleek tapware has been sourced from Italian family business Zucchetti. The house is the second place in Australia, and the first residential property, to use these taps – it’s definitely one of a kind. Dark tiles, once again from Uptiles and wall finishes give the bathrooms a sense of elegance, perfect for lounging in the bathtub after a long day. And no candles required, thanks to ambient LED lighting around the bath!

Of course, the home had to accommodate the family labrador, Maggie. To make sure she could always get around, Danielle decided a lift would be perfect. “Our granddaughter, Edie, loves it too! It’ll make her always want to come to our house.” Maggie also has a beautiful garden, a far cry from her roaming ground at her previous house. Grass and stone complement one another, trailing out to the backyard where a stunning infinity pool rests among the entertaining area. Custom designed fences and gates were manufactured and installed by Superior Fencing in a classic yet modern design, a nod to the pre-war architecture of the house’s façade. The low-maintenance and long-lasting aluminium design also features on the balcony balustrading and gives a sense of continuity throughout the home.

No detail has been overlooked in designing and building this home, creating a space that Danielle, Duayne and John are all proud of.

Danielle couldn’t be happier. “We were absolutely blessed,” she enthuses. “It’s like winning Lotto.”

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Queensland Homes Winter 2014 // project editorial D PEARCE CONSTRUCTIONS & CUNNINGHAM DESIGNS | PROJECT

D PEARCE CONSTRUCTIONS Phone: 0438 040 980 CUNNINGHAM DESIGNS Phone: 0411 888 177 191

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O N L I N E

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ARTWORKS GUARANTEED TO MAKE YOUR HOME STUNNING page 108

June 10, 2015 // styling editorial

We’ve written before about the power of artworks – they’ll instantly update any room in your home, acting as the cherry on top of your décor solutions.

“Art can take on any number of roles: contrasting, complementing, drawing a theme together or making its own statement – all of which is good news when most of us probably have a fairly eclectic collection,” says Greg Natale, interior designer extraordinaire and author of The Tailored Interior. “Letting your art ‘speak’ is important – make sure you give it sufficient space on a wall, and consider illuminating it from above with little spotlights.”

Check out our round up of gorgeous artworks for some design inspo and much-needed swooning.

Keeping the interiors simple is key to creating a divine gallery-style space, as seen in this gorgeous New Farm home. The artwork is a lush splash of colour in the otherwise neutral space. “A single vibrant hue can set off a room’s existing palette to perfection,” says Greg.

Bright, bold and avant-garde – a piece like this from Tailored Artworks will draw the eye and add new life to any room.

Or, go for a more neutral piece, commissioned just for you while evoking the humanity of a portrait.

If you’re going for a complementary piece of artwork, keep the piece from looking too ‘same old’ by introducing lighter shades of the same hue in other pieces around the room. We love how the artwork blends into the wall, while the lighter-coloured rug brightens the otherwise dark colour scheme and makes the room sing.

Contrast is key in this home – as Greg says, it exists to create visual excitement and creative tension in a room, preventing it from appearing flat or bland. The marriage of black and white in this Cape Town home is perfect, with darker statement pieces looking opulent, not overwhelming. “There’s a good reason why we pair a black suit with a white shirt,” says Greg. “Opposites don’t just attract – they look great together.”

Your existing artworks may be outdated, but don’t get rid of them. Update them with a new, luxurious frame. “Don’t let your current range of pieces limit your imagination,” Greg advises. “You can transform an artwork simply by reframing it, which may enable it to work in a completely different space.” Here, Art Land Indooroopilly have breathed new life into these existing artworks, creating a divine gallery wall with different frames for interest and colour.

Don’t think you’re limited to portraits or landscapes – an abstract artwork can work in any space, adding a splash of colour to lift the mood of your home. “Adding a touch of colour to a room is one of the easiest and most rewarding ways to make a statement,” says Greg. “Artwork offers an instant study in colour and pattern, bringing interest to walls as well as introducing its own story.” This piece by Under Art Gallery is a sunny, bold artwork, reminiscent of sunshine and galaxies.

In cooler tones, this piece available at Tosari Galleries is winter-ready.

Don’t forget the outdoors! A statement artwork will do wonders outside, carrying the gallery theme through your entire home. A street art-eqsue piece is the perfect addition, adding a rustic/grunge vibe to your space. These artworks by Guido van Helten are our inspiration of choice.

Want some more interior inspiration? The Tailored Interior by Greg Natale is your guide to the creative process behind luxe interiors. RRP $69.95, from Hardie Grant Books.

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ALL CHALKED UP: DIY CHALK PAINT INSPIRATION

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July 07, 2015 // styling editorial

If you were like me, drawing on a chalkboard was part of growing up. Perhaps it was the teacher-as-a-mother thing, maybe it was my pseudo-Picasso coming out to play, or maybe everyone thought it safer to give me a chalk, rather than permanent markers, as my canvas.

Whatever the reasoning, my fascination with chalk tones continues – there’s something so alluring about the velvety tones, and the motes of chalk dust floating around in the air in a pastel shimmer. The Annie Sloan Chalk Paint range captures all the beauty of chalk texture and tones, able to be used in a myriad ways, be they upcycling, adding a vintage lustre to a modern piece, or simply decorating in gorgeous hues. (And for past and present me, they’re a definite yes on the artist’s front.)

We’ve pulled some inspiration, straight from Annie’s collection, to inspire your own chalk paint adventures.

Polly Coulson’s painted dresser features Chalk Paint in hues of Henrietta and English Yellow for a retro-inspired feel.

Chalk Paint used for some shabby-chic pieces – we’re loving the rustic charm these dressers and cabinets bring to a room. Painted by Agnieszka Krawczyk.

Not just limited to walls and furniture, the Chalk Paint makes a gorgeous addition to these ceramic platters, painted by Abigail and Ryan Bell. These colours remind us of delectable gelato!

Abigail and Ryan also painted these gorgeous furniture vignettes, showing the Chalk Paint off in bright, bold hues.

Discover more colours from the Annie Sloan Chalk Paint range.

G A L L E R Y

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LOOK WE LOVE: DARK & MOODY DECOR

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June 26, 2014 // styling editorial

As the winter chill sets in, we think it’s time for a change in decor! Match winter’s tempestuous mood and richer feel with some moody, dark designs.

Deep hues and bold hits of colour add warmth to any room, while rustic touches – think exposed brick walls and rough wooden floors – boost those homey chic vibes like nothing else. You can do this in any home, and it’s all about balance. Natural textures meet industrial metal, rough fabrics meet smooth plastic chairs in fun prints… dark and moody decor is all about showcasing your own creativity and adding touches that will keep you warm as those cold winds swirl outside.

The Family Love Tree has put together some inspiration for our QH blog readers. And our personal favourite? Black on teal, as seen in the gorgeous bedroom. It’s perfect in so many ways. We know you’ll love this theme just as much as we do.

G A L L E R Y

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QH LOVES: KIM DUFFIN DESIGN & SUBLIME ARCHITECTURAL INTERIORS FOR LINCOLN SENTRY page 114

August 07, 2014 // home news editorial

Confession time: the QH team absolutely as you choose, but also blend seamlessly loves seeing the latest in home design. into the walls so you can have open shelves as well. The mirrors completely Okay, it’s not exactly a secret, but we open up the kitchen space, acting as a still love going around and checking out glam backsplash to your cooking area. what our talented Queensland designers and constructors have to offer. And after You can reach through to items in the getting a glimpse of Kim Duffin’s work scullery, or you can pass things through if at the latest AWISA Exhibition, we’re just you’re cooking up a storm. dying to share.

The Wardrobe System Kim Duffin – the powerhouse director Don’t make the mistake of thinking open of Kim Duffin Design and Sublime wardrobes are reserved for places where Architectural Interiors – was responsible a full wardrobe won’t fit. Kim’s design for designing Lincoln Sentry’s incredible blends in with the rest of the house, while expo space, and it had us swooning from being a feature all on its own. We can the get-go. Not only was Kim responsible imagine our clothes hanging in this space, for the entire design, he also constructed perfectly lit, with all the drawer space and the kitchen and scullery area that’s shelving we possibly need. These spaces certainly a must-see. can be custom-made to fit any area. Also, check out those Hera lights – aren’t they In no particular order, our favourites: beautiful? They offer glare-free lighting, yet are a sophisticated, gentle design.

The Hidden Sink Perfect for any home.

Hiding your sink under the bench? Absolute genius. You can extend the bench so it If you think the wardrobe looks familar, acts as a breakfast bar, or cover your sink you’d be right: you can see the same to hide clutter while you cook. design dividing the living and dining areas, and also in the study. It’s all due While Kim has used the moving bench to the Finista Slim Aluminium System idea before (we’re besotted with his (manufactured in Northern Italy, Kim says, bench/dining table combo, which uses and only just hitting Australian shores). This the same concept), he revealed to us multifunction shelving program provides that the horizontally-moving design is an the answer to myriad storage solutions Australian first. We love that something so and can be crafted in whatever finish you functional is also so stunning. choose.

A Place For Everything Whether it’s a nook for the washing machine or in-built laundry hampers, the kitchen and scullery is an organising maven’s dream. You won’t want to leave things lying around when they’ve got such beautiful dedicated spaces to return to.

Clean, Seamless Design No matter if you’re standing in the living area or scullery, study or bathroom, the space that Kim has designed is an homage to modern design. The aesthetic is clean, with every little thing hiding away. Even the power plugs, supplied by EVOline, neatly slide into the bench when not in use. The Rebecca showed us the heavenly drawer drawers are on BLUM’s famed concealed organisers and shelving, which are all runner systems, while all cabinets use available through Lincoln Sentry.

BLUM’s AVENTOS system – push to open, secure closing, and available in the same Open and Closed Shelving finish as our favourite shelves above.

Kim mentioned that so many people are asking for open shelves, but aren’t sure You can get these incredible features in whether their appliances and crockery will your own home by contacting Kim Duffin necessarily suit the design. His solution is of Kim Duffin Design, and visiting Sublime not only clever, but chic – mirrored doors Architectural Interiors online. which slide along to close off your shelves

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THE FAB WINDOW COVERINGS YOU’LL ABSOLUTELY LOVE

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June 08, 2015 // styling editorial

Okay, we love the sunshine, but when night falls, privacy beckons or we want a bit of a sleep-in of a Saturday morning, we love our window coverings more. And with such a range of options to choose from, you can really spruce up your windows and décor with ease.

From curtains to shutters to blinds, we’ve got the window covering that’s just right for your home. We’ve also included a few tips from one of our favourite interior stylists, Tahn Scoon, to help you choose the covering of your dreams.

Curtains “Curtains have made a big comeback in recent years and really have the ability to ‘dress’ a room,” says Tahn. “Use natural fabrics and the right design. Regardless of where the window stops, curtains tend to look best if they fall to the floor.”

Your home and lifestyle will influence the weight of your curtains, whether you choose lightweight, sheer window coverings or luxurious, heavy ones.

“If you need daytime privacy, or you need to soften an unappealing view, but would still like to allow natural light to penetrate the room, then a sheer curtain will be perfect,” Tahn advises. “If, however, you need full privacy, particularly in the evenings and at night, and to block out street or sunlight, you’ll need heavier curtains.”

Blinds Between roller and roman blinds, you’ve many an option if you decide blinds are your window covering of choice. Choose roller blinds if your home is more contemporary, and opt for the myriad choices resembling linen and self-patterned ‘cut out’ designs.

Roman blinds will suit any home thanks to their versatility. “They can be made with almost any fabric and can be designed to look very relaxed or more high end,” says Tahn.

“They work particularly well on higher windows, such as those above a bed where fulllength curtains aren’t suitable.”

Shutters Thinking about shutters as your window covering? You’re not alone.

“Shutters are a coveted option!” says Tahn. “Though they don’t offer the insulation properties of lined curtains and romans, white plantation shutters have a fresh, summery appeal and work very well in warmer climates, allowing easy manipulation of light and air-flow.”

If you choose to fill your home with this window covering, you may have to consider where they’re best placed. “Be aware that shutters aren’t particularly suited to bedrooms, as they will almost always let in slithers of morning light,” Tahn recommends.

Instead, place these window coverings in your kitchen, living room and study – rooms where plenty of light is desired. And best of all, they’ll show off our gorgeous Queensland sunshine to its best advantage!

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S O C I A L

M E D I A

MY TOP POSTS

9 68 queenslandhomes Modern and #moody, this Queensland Homes Magazine Touches of blue and Cape Cod style create a home that’s utterly beautiful #monochrome #bathroom from @rogerseller is seriously and perfect for living on the picturesque Gold Coast. luscious. The bold #black #bathtub has our vote for ‘Tub We’d Most Like To Soak In!’ #monochromebathroom Image: Steve Ryan, Rix Ryan Photography #blackandwhite #interiors #home #homeinspo 223

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204 25 Queensland Homes Magazine An utterly feminine workspace, crafted by Verandah House.

Serious love-eyes in QH HQ! Image: Steve Ryan, Rix Ryan Photography

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3 84 queenslandhomes We’re getting ready for our fab Design Issue – out in less than a week! Here’s a sneak peek at one of our featured homes, from @rylointeriors.

Divine. #realhome #qldhomes #design #qhwinter15

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June 26, 2014 // honeymoon location editorial

48 HOURS IN BRISBANE Want a romantic weekend in Brisbane? You’re in for an absolute treat. We’ve created an itinerary for 48 hours in this fabulous city, and you’ll enjoy every moment.

Friday night Start your weekend checking out the river that snakes through Brisbane with a City Cat cruise – it’s a perfectly romantic way to see the city in all its glory. Start near Mowbray Park for the best experience, and make sure you grab a good spot on the deck. You’ll head under the famous Story Bridge and Goodwill Bridge, getting views of Eagle Street Pier and Kangaroo Point all lit up at night.

After winding around the river, hop off at Southbank and explore the numerous cafes and restaurants for a spot of dessert before heading back to your luxury accommodation – sight and taste both satisfied!

Saturday afternoon After enriching your mind at the galleries and museums, it’s time to indulge your soul. Relax in the gorgeous Roma Street Parklands, just moments out of the city centre.

You can take a picnic rug and have a romantic picnic with your sweetheart while gazing out at the immaculate gardens and stunning water features (you won’t be the only couple doing this!). You’ll certainly forget you’re in the middle of a bustling city, that’s for certain. From there, it’s only a short trip to Fortitude Valley or back into the city, where you’ll be able to choose from a wide range of scrumptious dinner options for two. Try luxury Spanish cuisine at Ortiga, in the Valley, or an enticing modern Australian meal at Pony, on Eagle Street Pier, to perfectly end your romantic Saturday in Brisbane.

Sunday

Saturday morning Time to check out trendy West End. This inner-city suburb is known for its laid-back vibe and many cafes, making it the ideal place to grab a cup of coffee and a delicious feed. Check out the popular Three Monkeys Cafe or the Gunshop Cafe for a truly memorable and romantic meal. Return to Southbank afterwards to soak up a spot of culture – Southbank’s cultural precinct is home to galleries, libraries, museums and theatres, and is the perfect location to spend an hour or two with your sweetheart on a romantic weekend getaway.

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You’ve seen Brisbane up close, and now it’s time to see it all from afar. The Mt Coot-tha lookout is one of Brisbane’s most popular locations for tourists and locals alike, offering unrivalled views across the Brisbane CBD out to Moreton Bay. The lookout is home to the Summit Restaurant and Kuta Cafe and Gift Shop, so you can indulge in a spot of lunch while you’re there! As you make your way back to your accommodation, stop in Rosalie – this suburb has a quaint village feel, with incredible cuisine and enticing shops. Gelato will hit the spot – try Gelateria Cremona for hand-crafted gelato in a range of uniquely delicious flavours. The perfect end to your short break in Brisbane!

June 05, 2014 // honeymoon location editorial

48 HOURS IN THE BLACKALL RANGES While the Sunshine Coast is normally synonymous with a romantic beach getaway, it’s also the perfect location for couples wanting a mountain escape. (The Sunshine Coast really is the best of both worlds!) Here’s our plan for spending 48 hours in the Blackall Ranges.

Friday night You’ve driven up the mountains and through the sleepy town of Landsborough, now it’s time to call it a night in Maleny. This cute and quaint town was once a timber town, but then became known for its incredible local produce – naturally, it’s the best place for a romantic dinner for two. Couples can enjoy a range of cuisines in Maleny, but why not go for a luxury feast? Try the Terrace of Maleny, renowned for its seafood dishes using the best local produce, and its panoramic views over the Sunshine Coast. After dinner, return to your accommodation (we recommend Spicers Clovelly Estate for an opulent mountain stay) and snuggle in for the night.

Saturday morning Spend a couple of hours exploring Maleny in the morning light. There’s a chilled-out, hippy atmosphere to this town, as the many artisans in the area can attest to! Check out the cafes and gift shops, filled with handcrafted local gems. Bookstores are also another must – many an author calls Maleny home, and you both may just stumble across your favourite writer as you peruse the shelves. Before you hit the road again, stop off at the

Maleny Dairies for a mid-morning tour (and maybe pick up some delicious dairy for the drive).

Saturday afternoon Move onto Montville, and get close to nature. The Kondalilla National Park, home to the Kondalilla Falls, is full of over 107 bird species and the rare Pouched Frog.

Take a romantic and leisurely stroll, hand-in-hand with your partner, along the designated walking tracks to find this incredible site – if you’re brave, you can even take a dip in the swimming hole! After this, head back to town to grab a much-deserved massage for two. Try Casa Di Natura, in nearby Flaxton. This luxury day spa is tucked into the mountains on 8 acres of rainforest and bushland, and offers a ‘Beloved Spa Experience’ for couples – a romantic and indulgent way to share your love with one another!

Sunday Your last day in the Blackall Ranges, and where better to spend it than Mapleton? This is the last hinterland town along the northern end of the Blackall range, and is the perfect place for some R&R before heading back to your busy lives. Look out over the stunning views of the coast while breathing in the fresh mountain air, and relax with a romantic picnic at the Lilyponds park tucked behind Mapleton’s shops. You can spend some more quality time with one another while wandering around the Mapleton Falls and Obi Obi Valley, two famous sights in the Blackall Region.

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March 27, 2014 // honeymoon location editorial

ROMANTIC SKI HOLIDAYS IN EUROPE Europe is as romantic as you can get, full of endless dreamy options for skiing holidays and romantic couples’ retreats in the snow. France, Italy, Austria, Switzerland and Poland, Slovakia, Romania, Russia and more... the list of destinations stretches on and on! You’ve got the pick of the bunch, whether it’s a romantic winter honeymoon or simple escape for two that you’re dreaming of.

One of the most popular ski destinations is the Alps mountain range, which stretches from France’s Mediterranean coast to other lush European destinations such as Switzerland and Italy. With a range of ski resorts on offer, you can choose whichever location excites the pair of you the most!

You’ll fall in love all over again - not just with each other, but with the charming alpine villages as well! Wherever you’re headed to ski in romantic Europe, expect lovely shops, cafés and restaurants where you can snuggle up and get warm after hitting the slopes together. And we should mention this little detail... most ski resorts have wonderful spa facilities, meaning you and your lover can soak away any fatigue with a nice hot spa or sauna. If you fancy a massage or treatment, it’s time to indulge! Couples’ options are widely available, so get ready to unwind in the best way possible – with each other.

If it’s France that takes your fancy (a country absolutely famed for love and European romance!), try Chamonix with its famously high Mont Blanc mountain peak. Adventurous couples, take note: this one is full of of extreme terrain to challenge even the most experienced of skiers! You’ll never want to leave that white powder.

Verbier in Switzerland is another option for those who like to tackle steep slopes, while the glitz and glam of St Moritz is always alluring and better suited to those with a moderate level of skiing or snowboarding experience.

Of course, Italy is an attractive destination for honeymooners thanks to its abundance of delicious food and wine, and there’s no shortage of this on the mountains either! Settle into an alpine lodge or cabin at Sestriere or Cortina and soak in the stunning scenery - and inimitable culture - of the area.

So there you have it – whatever your skill level and whatever your tastes, you can be sure to find the most romantic and exciting ski location in gorgeous Europe! Get ready for the winter honeymoon or holiday for two that you deserve, and head to Europe ASAP. For more information on planning your European snow holiday talk with a specialist like Snowscene.

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P R I N T

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Great Destination Weddings 2015 // guest guide editorial

Photos: Studio Impressions Photography

Guest Getaway You’ve set the date, fixed the location, and planned the wedding of your dreams, guests included. Now, it’s time to sort out all the little details to get them to the chapel with you, happy faces abundant.

Words: Natasha Pavez The Lead Up If you plan on having guests involved, do everyone a favour and plan well in advance.

You'll be able to secure the venue of your dreams and celebrate with all those you adore.

A save the date card is a must-do; ideally, you should send this out about six months before the wedding. Include information about your chosen destination – that way, you can really whet your guests' appetite for a spot of travel!

Keep in mind that while the wedding is no doubt going to be expensive for the pair of you, your guests can seriously incur some hits to the back pocket with a destination wedding. Be considerate about your location, your venue, and accommodation options. Discuss whether your venue has any group accommodation discounts, or scour the internet to check out what options, from hostel to hotel, are available nearby for an overnight stay. Getting there and back needs to be simple and cost-effective, so do your research beforehand to see what flights your guests can catch.

Tourist-heavy locales make the most of holiday seasons, so consider planning your destination wedding in an off-peak time for further cost cutting. And while we all love a pressie or two,

why not consider your guests' presence your wedding present, and forgo the usual gift? A memory lasts far longer than any toaster.

The Arrival You've arrived, hooray! After a long flight, you're probably a mite weary – and your guests will certainly be craving a spot of R&R. Organise a shuttle bus (or, if you like a bit of luxury, a private car) to pick your guests up from the airport and take them to their accommodation. You can also have transport sorted for the big day, to ensure your guests all get there easily if they're staying in a different location.

Make sure you welcome the travellers warmly – we love the idea of a little welcome package waiting for your loved ones! (Think of it like a bomboniere.) Fill it with information about the location, contact details, fun activities to do outside of the wedding festivities, and any other dates and times they may need to remember. If you've got group accommodation booked, perhaps ask the venue if they can organise some tasty treats for your guests – think Champagne, a fruit platter or some decadent sweets on arrival.

Once all your guests have arrived, perhaps organise a sweet night out to catch up (nothing too over the top, of course, you'll all be exhausted!). You can also plan a few activities to allow your guests to see the best your location has to offer.

Wedding Bells The big day has come, and you'll be busy tying the knot, lucky you! Make sure your guests are looked after and enjoying themselves. Don't worry, your destination wedding planner will have all that well in hand. Make sure you thank your guests on the day, too – they've travelled a long way to see you say I do.

Au Revoir See your guests off properly, thanking them for making such an effort to come to your big day. As baggage restrictions may make bulky favours impractical, consider supplying your guests with a few treats to get home – a crossword puzzle, sudoku, or colouring book for the littlies goes down a treat. And grab a happy snap of the pair of you with your guests, all of you surrounded by that happy, wedded-bliss glow.

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Great Destination Weddings 2015 // vow renewal editorial

Love,

Everlasting True love lasts a lifetime, so why not celebrate? Reminisce on the wedding day love with one of our favourite excuses for an overseas escape – a vow renewal.

Words: Natasha Pavez Why renew?

Save the Date

While the post-wedding day bliss might seem like enough to carry you through all that life has to throw at you, there's absolutely no denying it – life is hard, and sometimes romance falls slightly by the wayside. A vow renewal is a reminder of everything you promised each other back on the big day, surrounded by the ones you love.

Anything goes when you renew your vows – whether you choose to say "I do" for a second time on your first anniversary or your fiftieth, there's no wrong time. "If there are few hard and fast rules for weddings, there are even fewer for renewal of vows celebrations," says Kate.

"It might be that you want to mark a new phase and commitment in your relationship, or that you want to celebrate a milestone," says Kate White, author of The Australian Wedding Book. "A renewal of vows ceremony might not constitute a 'real' wedding in the legal sense, but that doesn't make it any less joyous."

Location, Location Naturally, it's the perfect time to plan an escape overseas or to a destination you simply adore. Did you fall in love with a location you visited on your honeymoon? Have you always dreamed of sunning yourself in the south of France? Or do you even secretly wish you'd just run away to Vegas? Now's your chance. You can take off to myriad locations around the world, ticking off a destination on your travel bucket list at the same time.

A sunny island is always a popular choice (Bali, Thailand, the Whitsundays and Pacific Islands boast plenty of coastline for your renewal), or you can indulge in the romantically classic surrounds of Europe. Get in touch with your chosen venue well in advance – often, they'll have a vow renewal package that will take care of all the nitty gritty details.

Be Our Guest As it's not a second wedding, there's no pressure – you're not obligated to invite everyone who saw you exchange vows the first time! This will seriously free up your guest list, so invite those you adore (or escape a deux) and hit up the location of your dreams.

If you're renewing on your own, there isn't a whole lot out of the ordinary to consider – just make your plans, book those tickets and head off into wedded bliss (again!).

However, if you are inviting guests, make sure to give them plenty of time to plan their time off work so they can be there to see your celebration of love. (Check out Guest Getaway on page 9 for plenty of ideas on how to treat your guests!)

Photography: Fran Bolini

Real life couple Nicole and Leigh renewed their vows after 15 years of wedded bliss, choosing the city of love for their 'I do, part two'. J'adore!

Word to the Wise "Treat this as a fabulous opportunity to express who you really are, or to finally have the wedding you always wanted but perhaps didn't have because of family pressures or a shortage of money," Kate advises.

"You can truly be as spontaneous as you wish and concentrate on enjoying yourselves. This is a celebration generated by, and primarily for, you."

Remember: at the end of the day, it's all about the love you share – so go on, celebrate in your own romantic idyll and pledge some vows that show just how you cherish one another.

Take an up-close peek at weddings with The Australian Wedding Book

by Kate White. Penguin, RRP $75.00

Plenty of celebs have renewed their vows over the years, but there's none more sweet than the late Patrick Swayze's renewal of vows to his wife, Lisa Niemi. The ceremony was at the actor's New Mexico ranch in 2008, with a source reporting, "It was very important to Patrick to express his love and commitment to Lisa.

They both mean the world to one another." Be right back, fetching tissues…

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Great Destination Weddings 2015 // location guide editorial

Get hitched in

Asia

Bustling and beguiling in one instance and serenely spiritual in another, a destination wedding in Asia will entice every one of your senses, no matter your tastes as a couple.

BALI

THAILAND

PHILIPPINES

With glittering white sands and turquoise waters firmly in the minds of anyone who dreams of Bali, you’d be forgiven for assuming famed beaches are all this location has to offer. But a closer look – and a little bit of a hunt with your sweetheart – proves there’s so much more on offer.

Conjure up images of a romantic feast for two over your favourite Thai dish. Now, imagine the scenery – shimmering temples cresting along the skyline, peach-toned sands and glorious amounts of sun cast a golden hue over this gorgeous land. What more can you ask for on your destination wedding?

Compared to the rest of Asia, the Philippines are seemingly a world away – the Spanish influence is well-infused into these 7,000 (or so) islands. That’s not to say they’re all the same, so a couple looking to get hitched in the Philippines can get whatever experience they desire.

When night falls down by the shore, Bali’s party side comes out to play. By day, sophisticated shopping puts you squarely amongst the most luxe retail centres in the world – with a market find or two a must-buy.

PHOTOS: ????????????????

Craving a different feel? Head to the hills.

Verdant rice paddies, with their fronds swaying gently in the mountain breeze, are an idyllic wedding day choice with Bali’s true personality on show.

Follow the well-travelled road to discover Thailand in a nutshell, from beach to jungle.

Phuket, as one of Thailand’s largest islands, is one of the most versatile locales – where action-happy couples thrive in thriving Patong, more serene couples may want to exchange their vows amidst luxurious natural surrounds, such as those found in picturesque Laguna, Kamala and Surin.

And with Bali’s luxurious resorts promising five and six-star service, you’ll have your every whim catered for. It’s a destination wedding, in style.

Serene Chiang Mai, with its jungle-strewn hills and peaks, lures couples from all over the world; Bangkok, madly buzzing 24/7, may attract a different sort of couple but it’s just as alluring as the rest of Thailand. And, where sand meets sea, there’s plenty of coastline for you and your guests to enjoy.

Legal Requirements

Legal Requirements

Australian couples, you’ll need to lodge an application at the Consulate for a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage. In most cases, if you apply within public office hours your certificate will be processed on the same day. You’ll then sign an application in front of a Consular Official (and produce your passport as proof of ID, along with original proof of a marriage dissolution if applicable, such as a decree absolute or death certificate).

Allow three days in Bangkok to get your paperwork in order before tying the knot.

You’ll need to go your embassy in Thailand to complete declarations to say you’re free and clear to be married.

Your certificate fees will be payable in Indonesian Rupiah, but are based on the exchange rate at the time your application is lodged.

These documents will be translated into Thai, then taken along to the Legislation Division of Consular Affairs Department (along with originals and copies of your passports) to authenticate the Consular Official’s signature.

This will take about two days. After, submit your documents to the District registrar who will register the marriage and issue your Thai marriage certificate, following the procedure laid down by Thai law.

Boracay is the laid-back lovers’ dream – the white sands and crystal-clear ocean may seem cliché, but the vibe here is unparalleled. Say “I do” with sand between your toes and a cooling breeze catching your veil in Palawan. Elope to a secluded island in the tropics for your vows. Or, take your loved ones to the Intramuros district for a wedding that’s all about el amor.

The options are rife for post-wedding shenanigans, too, as couples can journey to a location that’s utterly different to their wedding destination for their honeymoon. The best memories start here…

Legal Requirements Whether you apply in person or via mail, you’ll need two documents to legally marry in the Philippines – a Certificate of No Impediment (or CNI, issued by the Australian Embassy in Manila less than 6 months prior to your wedding day), and a marriage licence (issued by the Philippine Government).

You and your partner must complete an application form, which must be signed in front of an authorised witness. This – along with your birth certificate or passport, authorisation letter and payment in Philippine Peso – will then be lodged with a Consular Officer at the embassy, so you can receive a CNI. If you want an appointment, book well in advance!

To apply for a marriage licence, head down to the local city hall with ID and paperwork if you’ve had a previous spouse. You’ll need to wait ten days from your date of application before receiving your licence.

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Great Destination Weddings 2015 // location guide editorial

PHOTOS CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: TOURISM AUSTRALIA, TOURISM NEW ZEALAND, TOURISM AUSTRALIA, TOURISM NEW ZEALAND

Get hitched in

Australia & New Zealand It may be home, but it’s filled with destinations aplenty that are perfect for your big day.

AUSTRALIA

NEW ZEALAND

Where do we begin? From coast to country, we're pretty blessed with divine landscapes for a destination wedding.

It's a magical location both north and south, with towering snowtopped peaks meeting rolling green hills. There's the fjords, the golden sandy beaches, dramatic volcanoes, forests, and miles of open plains.

And please, don't forget about those divine hot springs.

Sydney and Melbourne grace the pages of the sophisticated couple's travel tome, with the urban-meets-artsy feel certainly beguiling; Brisbane, tucked along the riverbanks, might not be as buzzing but it's just as bewitching.

Or, meander into the vines and tie the knot with your honey in the heart of the Barossa and Hunter Valleys. The vineyards are a romantic backdrop to your vows – and believe us, your guests will be ecstatic with the incredible wedding day feast you'll treat them to.

We've got over 35,000 kilometres of coastline, so why not take advantage? Beachside, we're spoiled for choice. Hit up a luxury island, like Hamilton Island or the Whitsundays, and spend the days pre- and post-wedding indulging your hedonist side. For a quieter wedding by the water, find a little beach tucked away from prying eyes. There's plenty on offer.

Legal Requirements If you're from Australia, you shouldn't have any surprises on your day!

To legally wed your partner, you need to find an authorised marriage celebrant or religious practitioner to conduct your ceremony.

You'll then need to give notice of your intention to marry – complete a Notice of Intended Marriage form, sign it together in the presence of a qualified witness, and lodge the notice with your celebrant at least one month prior to your wedding. Make sure your celebrant has evidence of your identity – an original birth certificate or current passport will work.

If you've been previously married, you must present originals of your divorce papers, or the original death certificate for a previous spouse.

Sold on New Zealand? We haven't even begun, not really. A destination wedding in New Zealand promises stunning backdrops for your big day, with so much variety you'll be hard pressed to choose your ideal location. You can take your loved ones (or plan an escape for two) to so many places in just one day thanks to the country's compact size.

Say “I do” at the Church of the Good Shepard, Lake Tekapo, surrounded by some of the world's most idyllic mountain views.

Choose a luxury lodge with exquisite cuisine, perfect for a destination wedding with your loved ones in tow. You can even exchange vows in a hot air balloon, soaring over the Canterbury plains. Whatever you choose, it'll be a wedding you won't forget, for all the right reasons.

Legal requirements If you're legally allowed to marry in your home country, you're legally allowed to get married in New Zealand – easy!

If you plan on being in New Zealand more than three days prior to tying the knot, complete a 'Notice of Intended Marriage' form; if not, you'll need to complete some additional forms. All are available and easy to find on the New Zealand Government's Births, Deaths and Marriages website. Then, sign a Statutory Declaration in front of a registrar. Three days after this, you'll be able to pick up your licence and two copies of the Copy of Particulars.

Most of this can be completed before arriving in New Zealand, so start planning now.

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Great Destination Weddings 2015 // location guide editorial

Get hitched in

Pacific Islands PHOTOS CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: COOK ISLANDS TOURISM (CRAIG OWEN), FIJI VISITOR’S BUREAU, HAWAII VISTORS AND CONVENTION BUREAU, SAMOA TOURISM AUTHORITY

With their romantic atmosphere and dreamy island vibe, it’s no wonder couples flock to the myriad Pacific Islands for a destination wedding.

SAMOA Pacific Islands mean beaches, right? Not so in Samoa – you'll get that, but also plenty of rainforest, mountain and valley views to whet your travel appetite. It's a slow-paced island hideaway that'll have you and your guests relaxed and on top of the world.

Legal requirements Fax a copy of your completed Intent to Marry form, birth certificates and passports (plus divorce documentation or a spouse's death certificate if applicable) to the Ministry of Justice at least 14 days prior to your arrival. You'll also need to be in Samoa for a few days prior to your intended date of marriage, and pay a small fee to the Ministry of Justice in Apia.

FIJI A cheerful 'Bula!' and natural wonders await in Fiji – there's a reason why plenty visit these sunfilled shores, year in and out. Choose a five-star resort for your wedding party or take over your own island, and say your vows at night under the twinkling stars. Romantic, don't you think?

Legal requirements Apply for your marriage licence at least three working days before your wedding – you can do this at the nearest Registrar office or District office in Fiji. You both must provide the following documents to the registrar for verification purposes at least two weeks before the big day: • Original birth certificate • Valid passport • Divorce papers or death certificate, if applicable

VANUATU This tropical paradise will leave you enchanted, with islands dotted through the warm Pacific Ocean. Clear waters and emerald land – paired with world-class resorts – make Vanuatu the ideal place for a laid-back destination wedding.

Legal requirements

• A completed 'Marriage of Foreign Citizens in French Polynesia' application

Contact a wedding organiser – they'll provide you with a marriage application form (and answer all of your questions!). Lodge your application with the Vanuatu government 28 days prior to your wedding, and make sure you're in the country together at least three days prior to your wedding day. Bring your passports, have one witness for each person to prove your identity, and you're sorted.

• A letter signed and dated by both future spouses, addressed to the mayor of the commune chosen for your ceremony • A copy of both your passports (for ID purposes)

HAWAII Between the swaying palm trees and beautiful beaches, you'll think you've just stepped into heaven. Channelling America's luxe vibe with all the laid-back spirit of the Pacific Islands, it's the best of both worlds for a destination wedding.

Legal requirements Regardless of your visa type, you can get married in Hawaii – just make sure you take your passport along to identify yourselves.

Ensure you apply for a marriage licence through the Hawaii Department of Health prior to the wedding. You may need to bring your birth certificate and photo ID if you're under 19 years of age to prove you can legally wed; if you've been divorced for less than two months, bring your divorce papers.

TAHITI With 118 islands for your choosing, there's plenty going on in Tahiti for a tranquil, luxurious escape. From coral reefs to palmfringed beaches, aquamarine lagoons to emerald peaks, there's a perfect backdrop to say 'I do'.

Legal requirements To legally marry in Tahiti, set aside three to five months to prepare all your documentation. You'll need to be at least 18 years old, not currently married, not a French national or resident of France, and have two witnesses to accompany you. You'll also need to submit the following:

• A certified copy of both your birth certificates, authenticated with an 'Apostille', translated into French by an approved translator (available on the consulate's website) and legalised by the French Consulate • A 'Certificate of Non-Marital Status' signed by a lawyer, translated into French and legalised by the French Consulate • Proof of residency for both the future spouses.

Send all this to the mayor's office of the commune in which you're getting married, at least 45 days prior to the ceremony. On the day, the mayor will perform your ceremony in the presence of two witnesses, hand you your marriage certificate – and done!

COOK ISLANDS With 15 islands making up the beautiful Cook Islands, there's plenty on offer – but no matter where you go, you won't be sacrificing on that divine island time. Follow your heart to Aitutaki Lagoon for the dream South Pacific wedding, with a luxurious resort reception to follow.

Legal requirements You'll need to apply in person to the Registrar of Marriages in the Cook Islands on arrival, giving a minimum of three days notice for processing your application. Bring your passport when filing your Notice of Intended Marriage at the Registrar's Office in Avarua, and ensure you have a copy of the Decree Nisi (divorce documents) if you are divorced.

The legal age of consent in the Cook Islands is 20; if you're younger, make sure you have written parental approval. You also cannot apply for this licence outside of the Cook Islands.

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EMAIL subscriptions@graphicpublishing.com.au Lounges as well as Thai Airways PHONE +61 7 3217 4654 or 1800 077 041 flights out of Brisbane.

FAX +61 7 3217 4906 Weddings 2015 // styling feature Great Destination

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Destination

Copyright by Graphic Publishing. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part thereof without permission is strictly prohibited. NOTICE: While every effort has been made to ensure that all information in this magazine is accurate, no responsibility can be accepted by the publishers for entries supplied by organisations, firms or individuals including copyright of supplied material and/or typographical errors. Advertising Enquiries: (07) 3217 4654, freecall 1800 077 041, fax (07) 3217 4906. Freelance contributions are welcomed by the magazine and submissions should be addressed to: The Editor, on info@greatdestinationweddings.com.au The publisher accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, illustrations or photographs. This issue may contain competitions, special offers or surveys which, if you enter, may require you to give personal information to Graphic Publishing.

This information may be used by Graphic Publishing and the companies who are supplying product or special offers, unless you advise us not to: phone 1800 077 041, fax (07) 3217 4906. The opinions expressed in this magazine are those of the writers only, and not necessarily those of the publishers. The information contained in advertising is the responsibility of the advertiser, and no advertisement is to be deemed as an endorsement by the publisher.

While every effort is made to ensure accuracy of information and prices before going to print, no responsibility can be taken for changes.

Pack your ‘kini for some postwedding pool fun.

Loving the tropical hues! jets.com.au

Abroad

Checking in to a wedding by the sea? Fill your bags with these lovely ocean-inspired delights.

Pay homage to the ocean with a bright, sassy nail polish. Lapiz of Luxury by Essie, essie.com

The limited edition Erin Petson/Biondi Couture sarong will have you dreaming of an endless summer. erinpetson.com.au This is the perfect stationery suite to get your guests excited for your destination wedding. etsy.com/shop/papertalkpress

A hint of sea glass adds a touch of natural beauty to your wedding ensemble. thestrandline.co.uk

Floaty layers with a hint of glitter – our favourite destination wedding look.

thebabushkaballerina.com.au

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O N L I N E

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June 25, 2015 // style file: beach boho

STYLE FILE: BEACH BOHO Sand between your toes, breeze in your hair, the one you love by your side… a bohemian beach wedding sounds divine, don’t you think? Get wedding-day ready with our style guide – it’s all you need for the perfect destination wedding, oceanside.

The destination Close to home: The Whitsundays – come on, where else can you find such picturesque shores? Add to that a sense of laid-back luxe at any of the resorts on tap, and your destination wedding is looking very well sorted.

Crossing the oceans: Any number of Asian Islands will do, but we’re seriously craving the white-sand beaches of Bali.

With an ambient mix of party pleasure and hedonist indulgence, it’s the ideal combo for your big day.

The gown Pick a gown that’s floaty and flowing – don’t go for gowns with too much fuss! Instead, choose natural fabrics and soft tones, a low-key design and plenty of romance.

Close to home: Clara gown, Karen Willis Holmes Crossing the oceans: Cascada gown, BHLDN Hair and Beauty Simple is the word of the day, so think flowing tresses with a natural wave, light make up and a megawatt smile.

Real Bride Inspo: Tobey, who tied the knot in Rarotonga.

Celebrity Inspo: Blake Lively – red carpet ready, but effortlessly so.

Accessories Keep it simple, keep it sweet. Whether you draw inspiration from glam gold or bountiful blooms, you don’t want the look to be overpowering.

Natural tones: A flower crown is the boho babe’s bestie. Real bride Kate pulls this look off so well!

Glam it up: We’re in love with Shut The Front Door’s beach-ready headpieces – dainty, with an almost vintage feel that lends itself perfectly to a bohemian beach wedding.

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POLKA DOT

Bride

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November 27, 2013 // honeymoon hotel review

LUXURY HONEYMOONS – BANNISTERS POINT LODGE, MOLLYMOOK BEACH In my mind, the New South Wales coastline is one of the most beautiful landscapes in Australia. Okay, growing up there may mean I’m a little biased, but I challenge you to prove me wrong after looking at this location! Mollymook Beach on the NSW South Coast is home to Bannisters Point Lodge. At only 3.5 hours away from Sydney, it’s the perfect luxury honeymoon for couples wanting to escape while still staying close to home.

This coastal hideaway was originally built as a quaint seaside motel, but renovations over the years have transformed it into the stunning location it is now. The 4.5-star luxury hotel comes complete with panoramic ocean views, which guests can view from the comfort of their rooms. And aren’t these rooms just divine? Bannisters’ 32 rooms – including 9 suites and penthouses – are furnished to suit the needs of all guests. King-sized beds, separate living areas and private balconies are available in every room. Plus, the bathrooms alone are enough to make anyone swoon – The Courtyard Suite and Spa Retreat room both come with a large double spa in the bathroom, perfect for unwinding in after the big day. If you’re after something a little different, try the Luxury Suites – two come with a Roman bath and gas fireplaces. Or perhaps a jacuzzi is more your style? The Jacuzzi Deck rooms come with – as the name suggests – a jacuzzi out on your room’s private deck. For the ultimate luxury stay, there’s nothing like the Pinnacle Penthouse.

Large living spaces teamed with a beautifully-furnished bedroom, private steam room and media room are perfect for a romantic getaway – there’s even a rooftop garden for you to enjoy!

I can’t talk about Bannisters Point Lodge without mentioning the culinary experience guests receive. Celebrity chef Rick Stein is at the helm of the onsite restaurant, Rick Stein at Bannisters, and the tastes there have earned the restaurant a coveted place in the Australian Good Food Guide. Reflecting Rick’s passion for seafood and Bannisters’ relaxed coastal lifestyle, the meals are less fine-dining, more what everyone wants to eat. The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, keeping you well-fed throughout your entire stay. Bannisters is also home to an onsite bar, where guests can relax with some delicious drinks and bar snacks while listening to some live music.

What would a luxury honeymoon be without a getting completely pampered? At Bannisters Day Spa it’s all about you, and the vast range of treatments will soothe, rejuvenate and balance your body and mind. Perfect for a honeymoon, Bannisters also offers a couples massage tutorial, where you’ll learn to attune yourself to your partner’s energies and needs through touch. Guys, there’s even a special menu for you – who says you don’t need a little R&R every now and then?

A beach getaway that’s still close to the things you love – who doesn’t want that? Best of all, it’s complete luxury.

If the pictures haven’t completely convinced you, check out Bannisters Point Lodge on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. You’ll soon realise why it’s a favourite!

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DIY THE PROFESSIONALS COMMUNICAKEIT When my best friend was getting married, she spent quite a while looking for the perfect cake topper. She wanted something pretty, unique and completely her, all in one hit. If you’re after the same thing, you definitely need to take a look what Bianca from CommunicakeIt creates! Each personalised cake topper is designed and hand-crafted in Sydney – not only will they make your cake look amazing, they’re also a perfect keepsake from your big day! Bianca’s joined us today on the blog to share some advice, her inspiration and how she came to be the crafter she is.

But I could never find my name. Bianca.

Then, I was in a junk shop just last year and found a similar sort of display for kids bike name plates again, and I wandered over to have a peek, super keen to see if just by some small chance my name may just to be there. And yet, 30 years later, I still don’t have a popular enough name to make the cut! Bianca as a kids bike name plate – still wasn’t there! There’s also the little fact that I have always loved making things. I have experimented with hand made things for a while and selfishly and shyly used my creations for myself. I use these “things”, check how they work and What was your path to creating handmade then change how it works. It’s a cycle. And items? continuously updating things. Updating or It started from a wee young age. I changing the way it works, sometimes I remember being in a toy store and looking can never decide! at the display for name plates for kids So where is this all going? It was a super bikes, and they were personalised. There close friend’s birthday in 2012, and were heaps of names. Heaps! Shiploads! it popped into my head to make her

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November 7, 2013 // interview with etsy creative

something. She wasn’t really happy about celebrating her birthday but I wanted to make it special for her. I was already playing with things that can sit on cakes, and I thought why not give it a stab to customise something for her. I designed my first “Christina Hip Hip Hooray”, and set it up on a cake to present to her. Her reaction was wonderful, and ecstatic happiness – for someone that did not want anything for her birthday, she was really really quite happy! She was so impressed with seeing her name, and asked where I found it. She, too, struggled finding her name “Christina” rather than “Christine”. Unfortunately, as it was the first cake topper I had made, the ‘e’ broke off, a little embarrassing, but I assure you, there has been quite a lot of product development since! It was my friend’s reaction I became addicted to – and it’s this that I keep on receiving from customers, both from Sydney and afar, sending photos of their Communicake it Cake topper sitting proudly on their cakes, and wonderful thank you messages.

And so Communicake It was born! I have just set up my website, and am also on Etsy.

Where do you find inspiration?

I get shiploads of inspiration from typographers, blogs, and being inquisitive about everything.

something bright. My favourite colour is PMS 17-1463 Tangerine Tango. Because really, who wouldn’t want to tango with colour?

Do you have a favourite style of wedding (rustic, vintage, modern, classic etc)?

I’m a classic 1950’s dreamer with a twist of now – think Audrey Hepburn meets Sofia Coppola.

Share with us your top Etsy store pick!

My favourite is my ‘Mr and Mrs Jones’ cake topper. It’s one of the first cake toppers I developed, and have had so many customers send photos of their wedding day with their own new surname sitting a top of their cake. Feels quite special that I can have a little part in so many wedding days!

What is your DIY advice for couples?

Pick and choose things you both love, and then make it together. There’s nothing more rewarding than saying, “We created this!”

What is the one tool you can’t do without?

My notebook. Random thoughts appear, I scribble them down and it’s hilarious looking back at them six months later!

Aren’t these just gorgeous? Completely chic – and unique! To order one of her custommade designs, head to her online store.

What is the most common question you get asked by couples?

About Bianca: Industrial designer by trade, “I’m getting married in 3 days, is it possible Bianca’s a skilled designer across a range to make in that time?!” of areas! She’s been in love with all things pretty and random since a young age, and What is your favourite colour palette? is especially addicted to celebrating the I’m a black on black sort of girl. But typically special occasions in life – so naturally, she’d the palette is black, white and a hit of find herself making cake toppers!

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DIY THE PROFESSIONALS LORGIE + ME page 136

November 20, 2013 // interview with etsy creative

I’ve had my eye on the beautiful handcrafted guestbooks at Lorgie and Me for quite some time – they’re beautifully unique with rustic charm. Naturally, I just had to ask Kamma to let us in on a few of her secrets, and she was kind enough to share them with us today!

Read on to find out how Kamma started crafting her beautiful books, her inspiration and what her favourite wedding style is.

What was your path to crafting handmade items?

After years of academic work I was itching to use my hands and the right side of my brain. I started off putting together little wooden children’s drawing books. After experimenting with a variety of timber books I discovered that there was a real demand for bespoke, modern wedding guest books and albums and my business has evolved rapidly from there.

Where do you find inspiration?

I find a lot of inspiration in the requests I get from my clients. I also find that ideas multiply quickly once I begin a process of design, so I may not create new products for a few months then suddenly I have 10 new designs within a week.

What is the most common question you are asked by couples?

Can you engrave our custom wedding logo onto this book? Of course the answer is always yes – I love sneaking a look at the imaginative wedding logos and images that my customers have created.

What is your favourite colour palette?

Clean and simple whites, with touches of earthy woods and pops of rich blues and greens.

Do you have a favourite style of wedding (rustic, vintage, modern, classic etc)?

My favourite style of wedding to attend is the casual, out door variety, full of colourful, personal touches and an emphasis on great food and dancing.

Share with us your top Etsy store pick!

My petite range of 6×9” engraved books are great for intimate weddings and are increasingly requested for Photobooths – there is just enough room for a photo and a simple message on every page.

What is your DIY advice for couples?

To focus on creating a meaningful ceremony with small DIY details unique to their past and future. Also to use the occasion to muster the collective creative energy of family and friends, turning the wedding into a bonding experience that stretches further than the day itself.

What is the one tool you can’t do without?

My trusty, slightly varnish splattered Mac Book and Adobe suite.

Aren’t Kamma’s designs simply gorgeous! They’re a perfect memento for your perfect day.

Want a closer look at what Kamma does? Check out her Etsy store here, or have a squiz at her website!

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BOMBSHELL BAY’S PACIFICA BOTANICA

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July 30, 2013 // honeymoon fashion editorial

With summer coming, Bombshell Bay is about to release their new collection, the gorgeous “Pacifica Botanica”. It features Bombshell Bay‘s trademark “sexy without the skimp” style paired with exotic colours, patterns and print, making you feel like a goddess from honeymoon to home.

All Bombshell Bay fabrics have been designed in Australia and are of the highest quality, so you know that you’re getting a piece that will last. The collection’s signature print, “Pacifica Botanica” fabric, is available from resortwear to honeymoon swimwear.

Bombshell Bay‘s owner and designer, Emily Doig, explains the inspiration behind the current collection. “When designing this latest range, I wanted to create a new twist on the Hawaiian tropical theme with darker, more mysterious patterns that reflect lush jungles, birds and exotic flowers. It’s a little piece of paradise that will ensure you make a statement and feel great at the beach.”

Every piece designed by Bombshell Bay creates the most flattering silhouette possible, so you’re always looking stunning either poolside or at the beach. High-waisted bottoms, underwired cups and removable straps make these swimsuits versatile for all body shapes (all designs are offered from sizes 8-16). The range of designs makes choosing the perfect swimsuit for you as easy as could be.

“Pacifica Botanica” offers striking one pieces, high-waisted bikinis for that retro feel, and even rash shirts (designed with UV50 and sun protection) that coordinate with your swimsuit. I’m in love with ‘Island in the Sun’, a one piece with a cute peplum trim. This one’s available in coral and fuschia.

Looking for something to throw over your bathing suit? Yep, Bombshell Bay have you covered. Shorts, harem pants, a pretty shift dress and a funky jumpsuit are all available, giving you pieces that work anywhere from the beach to the bar.

The new collection is available to preorder now, and will be released in September.

Check them out online (you can order them here too!), see their stockists, or follow them on Facebook.

G A L L E R Y

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N ATA S H A PAV E Z COPY EDITOR + WRITE R PORTFOLIO tashpavez.wordpress.com/portfolio issuu.com/natashapavez au.linkedin.com/in/natashapavez

C O N TA C T 105 Pearces Creek Road Alstonville, NSW, Australia 2477 t: 0401 953 172 | e: tash.pavez@gmail.com | w: tashpavez.wordpress.com

E D U C AT I O N Queensland University of Technology 2010 - 2013

Bachelor of Media & Communication Minor: Creative & Professional Writing Graduated with Distinction

NET:101 2014

Advanced Social Media (Short Course) Learning about best social media practices for businesses, utilising a variety of online tools to maximise efficiency and effectiveness of online processes.

Jane Writes Digital 2015

Digital Copywriting (Short Course) Learning to better write for online, repurposing print articles for our websites and social media.

This included further SEO, social media and copywriting training.

University of Queensland 2015

English Grammar and Style (Short Course) Mastering grammatical concepts and syntactical strategies, furthering my skills in critiquing and editing my own and others’ writing.

EXPERIENCE Graphic Publishing 2014 - Present graphicpublishing.com.au

Copy + Features Editor Developing copy for advertising and editorial features across five magazines: Queensland Brides, Queensland Homes, Holidays for Couples, Great Destination Weddings, and Outdoor & Poolside Living. This includes proofing and editing all ads and editorial. I act as the final pair of eyes on all content proceeding to print, on all brands.

Coordinating editorial shoots and photography for magazine features.

Developing editorial ideas for print and online inclusion, including product guides and longform editorial.

Interviewing popular personalities for magazine and online inclusion across a variety of subjects.

Generating creative content for all online brands, utilising Wordpress and Joomla CMS and best SEO practices.

Proofing and editing each piece generated for online inclusion.

Assisting with social media campaigns across Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest as required, utilising Buffer systems.

Supervising eDM creation for three brands, proofing and editing each piece for inclusion and developing content for each.

Training new staff members on programs and protocol and managing the editorial team, working as deputy to editors of the magazines and working closely with my superiors to ensure the magazine leaves on deadline.

Liaising with clients for best advertising results.

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N ATA S H A PAV E Z CO PY E DI TOR + W R I T ER EXPERIENCE (CONTINUED) Belle PR 2013 - 2014 bellepr.com

PR Assistant Developed editorial pieces for yum. gluten free magazine, including interviews, feature articles, and product reviews. This magazine focused on gluten free food and the health food industry, giving me an in-depth look at alternative diets and cuisines.

Completed media liason tasks for clients across a range of industries, including pitching articles to national and international media resoures, developing media releases, and conducting interviews with clients to design the best public relations program for their needs.

This began as an internship, quickly progressing to a paid PR Assistant role.

Polka Dot Bride 2013

Intern Developed articles for Polka Dot Bride’s various brands.

polkadotbride.com.au

Liaised with clients and personalities in the wedding industry for inclusion online, sourcing new talent for various features.

Assisted with social media, particularly Facebook.

Researched for editors, following up with contacts and leads for online editorial.

Uploaded content into a custom Wordpress interface, utilising best SEO practices.

Media Mosaic 2012

PR Assistant Developed media resources on behalf of Tourism Queensland and the Apollo Motorhome Group.

mediamosaic.com.au Organised media familiarisation trips for journalists on behalf of Tourism Queensland.

Developed social media campaigns on behalf of the Apollo Motorhome Group, involving promotion and organising competitions.

Discerning Bride Magazine 2010-2012

Editorial Assistant Wrote for multiple sections of the magazine, including receptions, real weddings and fashion.

prespub.com

Developed interview questions for high-profile personalities.

Assisted with photo shoots.

Conducted research, ensuring all client databases were up to date.

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE La Chascona 2014 - present

Personal Blogging Written for personal experience, covering a variety of lifestyle topics to further my writing skills. This utilises Wordpress.

lachasconablog.wordpress.com West End Magazine 2013

Blogger Volunteered to write for West End Magazine’s blog, discussing food around Brisbane and personal recipes.

westendmagazine.com

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N ATA S H A PAV E Z CO PY E DI TO R + W R I TE R PROGRAMS

SKILLS

SOCIAL MEDIA

Adobe Photoshop Adobe InDesign Adobe InCopy Microsoft Office Filemaker Wordpress Dropbox Google Drive

Creative Writing Editing Proofreading SEO Organisation Communication Time Management Team Work Reliability Illustration

Facebook Twitter Pinterest Google+ Tumblr Instagram LinkedIn Snapchat Spotify

On Apple & Windows operating systems

REFERENCES Jessie Taiapa Former Production Account Manager Graphic Publishing T: 0427 769 767 E: jessiee_marie@hotmail.com

Nicole Deuble Editor Queensland Brides Magazine T: 0432 403 776 E: nicole.deuble@graphicpublishing.com.au

Chloe Bassett Digital Content Producer + Social Media Manager Graphic Publishing T: 0434 510 649 E: chloebassett6@gmail.com

Alexandra Schultz Former Deputy Editor Graphic Publishing T: 0419 216 424 E: alexandra.schultz92@gmail.com

Hayley Newman Accounts Manager Graphic Publishing T: 0414 592 546 E: hayley.newman@graphicpublishing.com.au

Belinda Glindemann Director Belle PR T: 0411 119 000 E: belinda@bellepr.com

PORTFOLIO tashpavez.wordpress.com/portfolio issuu.com/natashapavez au.linkedin.com/in/natashapavez

To view my complete portfolio, please access the links to the left.

A print copy of my portfolio can be supplied on request.

C O N TA C T Natasha Pavez 105 Pearces Creek Road Alstonville, NSW, Australia 2477 t: 0401 953 172 | e: tash.pavez@gmail.com | w: tashpavez.wordpress.com

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Please contact me for further samples of online and print work.

To view online articles, please visit my online portfolio at tashpavez.wordpress.com I am available for freelance and permanent work.

SITES tashpavez.wordpress.com lachasconablog.wordpress.com queenslandbrides.com.au queenslandhomes.com.au holidaysforcouples.travel greatdestinationweddings.com.au polkadotbride.com yumglutenfree.com.au

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NATASHA PAVEZ 105 Pearces Creek Road Alstonville, NSW, Australia 2477 t: 0401 953 172 e: tash.pavez@gmail.com w: tashpavez.wordpress.com page 158