ISSUE 8 web

North Coast

TWEED COAST • BYRON BAY • BALLINA • YAMBA • COFFS HARBOUR • PORT MACQUARIE • FORSTER • NEW ENGLAND

2012-13 spring/summer

your must have guide to weddings on the north coast

weddings

ISSUE 8 $9.95 incl. GST

henry

roth

interview

health &beauty

real weddings Latest trends and Style Inspirations

Gorgeous

fashions

Boutique weddings

PRINT POST APPROVED PP255003/07158

+ WIN

custom gown from designer Jade Kohl Couture

All photos courtesy of Peter Sechi

hello

boutique wedding photography servicing australia wide

caroline fogg | photographer p: 0428 214 207 e: enquiries@mihajaphotography.com.au w: mihajaphotography.com.au

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from the editors

EDITORS April Briscoe & Michaela Slater SUB-EDITOR Nikki Williamson CONTRIBUTORS Charlotte Wild (Editorial) Amber Toms (Photography) Karla Majnaric (Photo retoucher) Elizabeth DeVere Courtenay (Fashion Stylist) Mickeela Toneycliffe Makeup Artist (Fashion shoot make up) Living Doll Premier Stylists (Fashion shoot hair) Thank you to all contributing photographers and suppliers.

A special thank you also to the brides and grooms for allowing us to feature their beautiful North Coast weddings.

ENQUIRIES & SUBMISSIONS 02 6651 1984 nthcoastwedding@optusnet.com.au DESIGN artgeko ncwdesign@optusnet.com.au PUBLISHER Concept Media ABN 95 534 907 495 PO Box 2071 Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 02 6651 1984 nthcoastwedding@optusnet.com.au Call the office for back issues North Coast Weddings Magazine is copyright. The contents of this magazine including stories and photographs are strictly not to be reproduced without the express written permission of the publisher, Concept Media. The advertisers and suppliers of editorial information and photographs warrant that any material published in North Coast Weddings is in no way an infringement of the copyright or other such acts, is not unlawful, defamatory or libellous or does not infringe the Trade Practices act or other regulations, laws or statutes. Advertisers and suppliers agree to indemnify Concept Media of any claims, damages or costs including legal expenses, penalties or judgements occasioned to the publisher in consequence of any breach of the above warranties.

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Spring is in the air!

The new season brings new life and new beginnings and with that, a renewed excitement for all things weddings. The new season trends are star ting to shine through in the pictures that we see and it is all very beautiful indeed. There are some talented people out there decorating your cakes and making your gowns and in this issue we have the cream of the crop showing you how it’s done.

We are lucky to have a burst of fresh insight in the form of styling collaborations for your wedding this season. Various teams across the coast have come together to decorate spaces in different themes to show you what is possible with a little imagination and know-how.

The result is a visual feast, so I hope you are hungry for inspiration. The images are scattered throughout the magazine.

One of the most exciting things to happened here at North Coast Weddings is an opportunity that came to us earlier in the year. Fashion designer Henry Roth granted us an interview, which made us all do the happy dance here at the office. See page 14 and read about his revealing chat with Nikki Davies, who still can’t stop talking about it.

As the weather heats up, we star t to think about our health more and spring is the perfect time to use that newfound motivation and get wedding ready. Turn to page 17 for the best advice on how to look good and feel great for your big day. There is also a listing of fantastic health and beauty exper ts that are out there to help, so find your wedding dream team on page 22.

Finding a venue that allows you to get outdoors during the warmer months is easy on the North Coast however it’s hard to find one that is different to all the others. There are some beautiful boutique venues out there that deliver on style as well as function and this issue we have listed them along with some great businesses that love to work with these unique spaces. Turn to page 40 if you are looking for the wow factor for your wedding.

We have some new beginnings of our own here at Nor th Coast Weddings. Firstly welcome aboard to our new Sub-Editor Nikki Williamson. We are so pleased to have you on our team and look forward to many happy days pouring over beautiful weddings with you. Secondly, our Fashion Photographer, Amber Toms, gave birth to her first child. Little Hailen came into the world shor tly after our fashion shoot and he is completely adorable. Congratulations Amber and James!

This issue is packed full of loads of information and inspiration so grab an iced tea, put your feet up and prepare to be inspired.

Enjoy

April & Michaela Some of the loca l farm a very cur nimals w ious dur ere ing our f ashion s This ho hoot. rse cam e to visit all in st a n d h a d us itches. H e becam e quite of Elizab fond eth, as s een here .

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contents features

14

83

46

wedding workshop

real weddings

regulars

10 wrap up of our first event in coffs harbour

28 renee & rama 32 tania & darren 38 katie & matt 50 telena & clint 72 shannon & mitch 96 sheree & duncan 100 lois & robert

8 what’s news 13 what’s hot 80 flowers 86 cakes 86 the groom 92 fashion 94 jewellery 104 hair 106 beauty

you could win 12 jade kohl original wedding gown to the value of $1000

henry roth 14 interview with one of australia’s finest wedding gown designers

looking good + feeling fit 17 get wedding ready together

organise your wedding feast 46 learn about good catering

83 vintage, ruffles

ombre

and

the latest in cake trends

fashion

54 12 pages of beautiful fashions for the bride

styling inspiration

24 natural beauty 36 coast meets country 52 a rustic romance 66 an exotic touch 76 a rural love 88 vintage chic

the marketplace 108 an easy way to find local products and services

readers survey 110 win a sunfx tanning package wedding timeline 111 your perfect checklist

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whats

news

This year North Coast couples were treated to an exciting list of first time wedding events. All were successful and are set to make a return next year. Here’s what was new in 2012…

South West Rocks Wedding Expo Bliss Events and the South West Rocks Country Club held their first expo in June this year. Already a popular tourist destination, South West Rocks is proving to be a popular wedding destination too. There was bubbly and canapés on arrival for more than 150 guests that went along on the day and by all accounts, had a great time. The event will be held again next year during winter.

North Coast Wedding Workshop The first event of it’s kind on the Nor th Coast the workshop was about educating couples on how to plan their wedding without all the drama. It was a fantastic day had by all and the 2013 event is not to be missed if you are in the early stages of wedding planning. See the NCWW wrap up on page 10.

Byron Bay Wedding Fair Held at the Figtree Restaurant in Ewingsdale, just outside of Byron Bay, this relaxed and informal expo delighted visitors. With arguably the best views of Byron Bay, this event boasts the cream of Byron’s wedding crop and couples weren’t disappointed.

Yummy canapés, sparkling wine and beers were served to couples mingling with very talented vendors showing off their wares.

Event organisers even had a treasure map you could follow, to all of the hidden gems – the surrounding venues in the Shire.

There were smiles all around and it looks as though there will be next year as well, when the event returns.

Byron Bay Bridal Showcase Stepping away from the traditional format of an expo, this event allowed couples to walk through themed areas inside the hall and outside on the lawns. These themed areas were styled by teams of vendors including cake decorators, florists, stationer, lolly buffet artists and event stylists. The spaces were truly beautiful and really enabled couples to see the teams full vision in a relaxed atmosphere.

Unlike an expo, there was a vendor’s lounge, where couples could sit down over a cuppa or some yummy tasting plates from a local caterer to discuss the displays and ask questions relating to their own weddings.

We really look forward to attending the 2013 event to see what they all do next.

All the fun of the Byron Bay Bridal Showcase

New Port Macquarie Blog Portmacquarieweddings.com is a locally owned and operated online directory and blog dedicated to highlighting and showcasing all things wedding in and around the Mid North Coast of New South Wales. You will find gorgeous and creative styling shoots that showcase latest trends and inspirations, real local weddings, DIY hints & tips, news & events, venues and free wedding advice for couples getting married in the area.

Who Are We? We are a team of local stylists, event planners, graphic designers, photographers and makeup artists who came together over a shared love of weddings, parties and pretty things that inspire us! We believe in rocking both stilettos and sneakers; love a good bargain but also know there are times when you just need a good splurge!

What Are We Passionate About?

We are passionate about weddings and all the finer details that go into creating a couple’s dream wedding. We believe that there is no one right way to have a wedding and that one does not have to wear a white wedding dress on her wedding day but must definitely eat cake!!

We are also passionate about showing outof-town couples they can have the wedding of their dreams here on the Mid North Coast but at half the price of a Sydney wedding and without forgoing any of the details!!

Our Styling Shoots The most favourite part of our job!! We are lucky enough each month to collaborate with some of the regions finest wedding vendors to create styling shoots that showcase their unique and creative products and services.

The themes of these styling shoots are based on latest wedding trends and inspirations from around the world. Our aim is to show our brides just how easy it is to recreate and incorporate these trends and inspirational ideas into their own weddings.

EVENT NEWS!

Photos: Down Bangalow Road Studio

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For next year’s event details, grab a copy of our autumn/winter issue, due out in March or stay in touch via our Facebook page, Nor th Coast Weddings.

The Hastings Valley Bridal Fair On the Saturday the 9th of March 2013 Por t Macquarie Weddings will be hosting one of the North Coast’s premiere bridal fairs. A unique and creative way for some of the regions finest wedding vendors to come together to showcase their work and inspire couples looking to have their wedding in the Hastings region.

For more information please visit por tmacquarieweddings.com

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Wedding Workshop north coast

coffs harbour

This year we held our first ever North Coast Wedding Workshop and by all accounts, it was a hit. The event took place in Coffs Harbour and was the first event of it’s kind on the NSW North Coast.

We invited the best in the business to come together and help couples organise everything about their day while reducing the drama and stress that so many experience. Couples learnt the pitfalls to avoid, how to make savings and our exper ts top tips for a memorable day.

There were hair and make up trials from Living Doll Premier Stylists and Blush Make Up and Beauty Studio; cake tastings from Modern Cake Creations; gorgeous jewellery from

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Parrys Jewellers and a beautiful fashion show cour tesy of Spurling Coffs Harbour. Coffs Coast Health Club was on hand to get everyone fit and healthy, while Precious Petals assisted with flower choices for the up coming season.

Mike & Amy Photographers gave a presentation on how to get the best photos on the day and Special Occasions impar ted over 20 years of experience and knowledge, all topped off with Prosecco and delicious canapĂŠs

from Fiasco Catering.

The Workshop took place in June and will now become an annual event. We are also planning to bring the Workshop to the Port Macquarie and Byron Bay areas in 2013.

For information about future workshops stay in touch on our Facebook page - Nor th Coast Weddings - and event website. www.ncweddingworkshop.com.au

A huge thank you to our sponsors, without whom the workshop would not be possible.

Thank you to our par ticipating exper ts for being so fantastic.

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Reader Competition

YOU COULD

WIN

a jade kohl custom wedding gown to the value of $1000* one lucky reader could walk down the isle in a custom made jade kohl original wedding gown!

To celebrate the opening of the new JADE KOHL Boutique, JADE KOHL is giving one lucky reader of Nor th Coast Weddings Magazine, the chance to win a custom wedding gown up to the value of RRP$1000. * conditions Not redeemable for cash. Can be used on JK White Label or RTW Lines, custom gowns only. May be used for a minimum of two bridesmaid gowns instead. The winner must pay any additional value of the finished product over and above the $1000 prize value. No refund in the form of cash or credit will be awarded should the value of the finished product not amount to the $1000 prize value.

For your chance to win this fabulous prize, simply answer the questions below, fill out the entry form and ✁ send to Nor th Coast Weddings PO Box 2071 Coffs Harbour NSW 2450. Entries close March 31, 2013.

NAME

1. Where did you come across North Coast Weddings?

AGE

n Newsagent n Store n

n Other

2. What features would you like to see more of in the magazine?

ADDRESS

3. What features did you like most in the magazine?

TOWN/SUBURB

4. What is/was your budget range for your wedding? ❑ 0-$10,000 ❑ $11,000-$20,000 ❑ $21,000-$30,000 ❑ $31,000+

P/CODE

5. Why did you choose the North Coast of NSW for your wedding?

TELEPHONE

6. Why do you want to win an original wedding gown from Jade Kohl

✁

MOBILE wedding date:

Café

TERMS AND CONDITIONS – Entries close 31/3/2013. The prize will be drawn on 1/10/2012 at Concept Media, Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour. The publishers decision is final and they will be notified by phone. The prize is not redeemable for cash. Prize is valid for six months from date of issue. This competition is not open to contributors, employees or their families.

Your entry details will be kept confidential and will not be given to any third parties unless you tick the box directly above this text.

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whats

hot

Collette by Collette Dinnigan Lace Trousseau briefs, $39.95 Collette by Collette Dinnigan Lace Trousseau bra, $89.95 www.collettedinnigan.com

indulge Queen of all things feminine, Collette Dinnigan, has just released a new range of bridal underwear.

Check it out for a touch of glamour.

Piping Trilby from Roger David www.rogerdavid.com.au

Collette Dinnigan 5075B

Retro is back in a big way.

The cool styling of everything from hats to shoes will have him looking good from top to toe.

rustic elegance romantic florals sheer coverage lace and tule watercolours small cakes exciting fare charity registries imaginative touches

Hair piece from Lavish Floral Design Photography: www.thechubbyfashionista.com.

Decadent Opulence drop earings from Samantha Wills www.samanthawills.com

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henry roth

Nikki Williamson speaks to wedding gown designer Henry Roth

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here are people in this world who can alter your mood immediately.

They can excite and inspire you simply by talking about what they love to do. They can energise and embolden you to do more in your own life, to think more creatively, to think outside the square and really explore the oppor tunities around you. Henry Roth is one of those people and when it comes to weddings, personality and gorgeous gowns you really can’t go past him.

Henry Roth of Henry Roth Australia (www. henryroth.com.au) is a fashion designer, lawyer, radio and television personality. He is passionate about everything he does carrying an energy and sense of positivity with him that is completely infectious. “Whether the camera’s on me or not, I’m always enter taining,” laughs Roth as we talk on the phone and I don’t doubt it. His commitment to all that he does isn’t in the least bit shallow but runs deep and is coloured with joy and showmanship.

Something that’s reflected in his attitude toward his role as designer : for him it’s not simply about making a beautiful gown. Instead, he sees his relationship to the women who buy his designs as being a personal and suppor tive one. He is like your most trusted friend with only your best interests at heart. It’s a trait that is endearing and rare but it is a crucial part of what makes Henry Roth Australia a success.

people, fashion and circumstance are my inspiration While there are many well known design houses in Australia, Henry Roth is one of the longest running. His parents, and now he and his sister have been dressing brides around the country for nearly sixty years and in the United States since the late 1990’s. It’s a design house that is steeped in tradition and hard work, in love and loyalty and a desire to dress women beautifully.

Created by his parents Joseph & Aneta Weinreich in an apartment in Artarmon, NSW, Henry joined the company in 1991 bringing his broad experience in law and marketing with him. He speaks of the humble beginnings of his parents design house with pride and respect for all they had to go through to not only come to Australia but to become so successful. It is a history he clearly loves to talk about and that informs who he is today.

While his mother, Aneta, remains head designer in their Sydney studio, Henry and his sister Michelle, have helped to broaden the company’s base and make a successful shift into the American market. Remarkably, they have become ‘international’ while still keeping their parents original philosophy alive. It’s a gift Henry has – a generous nod to the past with a firm eye on the future.

While Henry’s past is littered with amazing experiences both here and overseas, he doesn’t consider his move from working on events such as Live Aid in London to his families business in Sydney as a complete change of career. “My career is a hybrid,” says Roth, “solar-powered, nextgeneration, multi-tiered and continuous on every level. In other words I haven’t started or stopped anything. I was born into a bridal designing family and from the age of six I have been draping fabrics over my mothers’ mannequins in Surry Hills.”

This history in design, and continued passion for it, has only been enhanced by Henry’s law degree and international entertainment industry experience. With it he has been able to take his parents business to another level and enter the 21st Century with a bang. His sister too is no slouch in the family design house maintaining their position in New York with a great reputation of her own.

Michelle, based in New York, has her own collection, The Michelle Roth Collection, which is exclusive to Kleinfelds.

Established in 1941 in Brooklyn, Kleinfelds now operates out of Manhattan on West 20th Street. It is a tradition in the US in bridal wear, assisting thousands of brides a year offering the largest and finest collection of bridal gowns in the world.

While Henry has been based in the Sydney studio since 2007, he continues to travel to New York regularly and he and Michelle collaborate happily, their intrinsic differences creating a masterful team. Their designs continue to grow and they are both developing new collections to extend the business even further. And yet

where such continual creativity comes from is astonishing.

The bridal industry is one of the most competitive in the fashion business, with hundreds of gorgeous gowns in boutiques across the country vying for a brides’ attention.

With that kind of pressure it would seem impossible to keep coming up with designs that are fresh and new especially when the bridal industry also relies on the idea of tradition? “I think the inspiration comes from the reality of life. It’s fashion, its circumstance, so we look at celebrities, we look at red carpets, we look at things that inspire us that are glamorous and gorgeous and are wearable,” Henry explains.

But it’s not just the ‘who’ of the bride that North Coast WEDDINGS

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Roth thinks about, it’s also the ‘where’ of location.

“Brides get married from the top of the hill to the bottom of the sand dunes, to ballrooms to evening and day, and sunset and sunrise,” he says. “So people, fashion and circumstance are my inspiration”.

With such a broad canvas to draw from it is no wonder Henry Roth designs has such a wide range of gowns to choose from. “If you look at my collection,” he explains, “we design it right across the board”. From traditional and formal, to simple and elegant, floaty and flirty, the collection really does cater to many tastes.

Yet I wonder about the States and whether or not American brides inspire different designs to the ones we see here.

“We really are one globe now,” says Roth. “I see no difference between a bride in Houston, in Minnesota, Melbourne, Darwin and Townsville.

It’s exciting how ‘up there’ we are with the rest of the world.”

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so global. “In my parents’ day,” explains Roth, “it was all about very rigid ranges because the world was so parochial.

My parents designed six ranges every two years for all the different states; there was a range for NSW, there was a range for Queensland, a range for South Australia and so on,” he says.

“Now because its’ so driven by fashion I think its more ad hoc so we’re constantly designing, constantly doing prototypes, so basically the process is constantly putting – if you like – coal into the engine.

We’re constantly drawing sketches, looking at fabrics and we continually interact with our design studio in Hong Kong”.

Such a frantic, nonstop pace seems to be necessary when you’re working across continents. “We work to two main times a year in both Australia and the United States,” says Roth.

“In Australia its August and February and in New York April and October”.

For Roth though designing is a two-way street in that it’s not about telling brides what to wear but acknowledging who they are too. “The 21st century bride is real,” says Roth, “she’s realistic, she’s budget savvy, she wants to have an amazing wedding ceremony and reception and she understands that it’s not just all about her”.

She’s also very confident about what she wants. “We are really all fashion exper ts these days,” suggests Roth. “Brides come into the picture much more clued up to what’s available”.

Yet it can still be hard for the modern bride to give up a childhood dream about what her day, and what she, should look like. Roth believes the advice of an expert is very important in making the right decision about what suits you and what doesn’t and he recommends it to all of his brides. “Roth 101,” he says. “You take out the few base shapes and come in with a very clean attitude”.

This means using your first visit to a bridal boutique to try on one gown in each basic style - ball gown, empire, straight and mermaid. Roth argues that once you try them on you’ll get a feel for what is going to be the best shape for you. “In twenty-two minutes guaranteed you’ll know what shape suits you and you can go for it,” he says. There is a caveat: “The most important thing,” he warns, “is not to bring a circus of people with you”.

Instead, he suggests relying on your own eye and the advice of the experts on the floor of the boutique. These people, he says, will always give

every bride deserves a gorgeous gown that won’t blow her budget you the best advice. And it is this attitude that is so wonderful about Roth. There is no distance between him and his brides: he is emotionally attached to the entire process – from the first scratches of a design on the page to the fully made-up bride as she walks down the aisle.

It’s an attitude that is reflected on his web page and the multiple access points clients have to contact him and get his advice. Whether it’s through his blog, twitter, email or his personal phone number, a bride-to-be can be assured that buying a Roth gown is more than just a fitting, it’s a complete service that is highly personal, something that is so very impor tant to Henry and at the hear t of why he does what he does.

And it’s not just about beauty and the perfect fit, Henry is very conscious of catering to all brides and not just those who can afford top-of-the-range designs. He is adamant that every bride deserves a gorgeous gown that won’t blow her budget. “My gowns are called ‘affordable couture’,” he explains, “and we go from our informal wedding collection at $695 to $995, to the more formal bridal gowns which go from $1000 to $1500”.

But don’t imagine that this means cheap.

Henry Roth bridal gowns are contemporary, stunning and don’t compromise style, glamour or quality in delivering a good price. “When you have the knowledge I have at my finger tips from my parents and my great grandparents before me,” explains Roth, “you can offer great gowns that are affordable.”

looking good + feeling great Every bride wants to look amazing on her big day but health and beauty can be pushed to the backburner as other arrangements vie for your attention. A good plan and a daily routine however, will get you looking, and feeling, your best in no time at all.

Written and compiled by Nikki Williamson

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A wedding is a true feast for the senses; the scents, the sounds, the tastes and look of a wedding all come together to heighten the joy of the occasion. This is particularly true of your sense of sight.

Whether it’s the gown, the flowers, the decorations or the venue, we look for beauty at a wedding and the way it reflects the uniqueness of the couple getting married. What is also critical in this beautiful ‘view’ is the health and vitality of the bride and groom – the glow that comes of love.

W

hile the excitement of the big day will bring about a cer tain glow to the skin, the most confident brides, and grooms, will be the ones who aren’t relying on genetic good for tune but have planned their health and beauty strategies just as carefully as they have planned all of the other details of their wedding day. This is because even the most even tempered woman can feel the stress of planning for her wedding day, stress that will inevitably take its toll on her skin, hair and general wellbeing.

As with every other element of the wedding, having a plan or timeline can help to take the pain out of making sure everything is done or at least thought of. Often, brides don’t fully consider their health and beauty needs until it’s almost too late to do anything about it, but beginning a health and beauty regime as soon as you can, will take the pressure off you to fit into your dream dress as well as allowing your skin to become naturally radiant. We all want to be at our best on our wedding day, brimming with

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confidence so we can completely focus on the day and the experience of becoming married.

Health

Many brides want to get into better shape for their wedding day so whether it’s losing a few kilos or simply tightening and toning your body, it’s impor tant to give yourself time to get into good habits well before the big day. While the combination of good nutrition and regular exercise is the sure fire way to get you into shape it can be difficult to know where to star t and when you should seek help to guarantee success.

If you’re already pretty fit and generally eat well you may be able to make a few slight changes to your lifestyle yourself and reach your goals without any trouble, but if your goals are bigger and you know that in the past you’ve had limited success in changing your eating and exercise habits, seeking help at the star t is going to get you better results in the long run.

While you might imagine you can’t afford an

expensive gym membership, personal trainer or nutritionist on top of your wedding expenses there are ways to get professional advice without spending a for tune.

Signing up for a month or two of classes or personal training sessions may be enough to give you the kick start you need to keep going under your own steam. Group training sessions may be cheaper than one-on-one or look for an informal training group in your area – say bushwalkers or open-water swimmers – that can give you the inspiration and motivation to keep going without the price tag. Alternatively enlist a friend who is likely to keep you motivated and workout with them. Then there’s your par tner.

While the onus seems to be on the bride to look gorgeous, working out with your man is a great way to get you both into shape for the big day. Keeping each other motivated is a loving gift and it’s also a great opportunity to catch up. The final bonus is that it will get you into great fitness habits to continue with during your marriage. Walking together, boxercise classes, cycling or swimming are just a few

health timeline 12 months out • If you have weight to lose, the longer you give yourself the better as this allows for slow healthy weight loss that will last.

• Begin an exercise program. Even if it’s only 10 minutes a day to start you can build up slowly to 20 or 30 minutes as the habit begins to kick in.

• If you know you’ll struggle enlist the help of professionals or friends and family.

6 months out • Monitor your progress and keep check to see if your meeting your goals. If not change something you are doing and check again in another few weeks. activities you could do together to get fit for the big day. Alternatively, you could sign up for a gym membership for two or split the cost of a personal trainer.

Exercise needs to be accompanied by good eating if you want to see the benefits of your effor ts sooner rather than later and if you struggle to cook healthy meals there are a few things you can try. If you like to cook and have time and energy enough to plan and prepare your own meals, a few appointments with a nutritionist could be enough to get you on the right track. If you don’t love the kitchen and don’t have time to think about your meals there are a number of online services that can home deliver calorie controlled meals to save you thinking about it at all.

For the in-betweener there are a number of web sites that offer meal plans, suppor t, tips and advice for eating a calorie controlled diet that includes home cooked meals as well as takeout and restaurant dining. It is possible to find a program that will suit your lifestyle without you having to give up absolutely everything you love to get to your ideal weight. Obviously, it is impor tant to use information that comes from a reputable source and to make sure you are eating enough to prevent fatigue or binge eating.

How much time you have before your wedding day will help to dictate which avenues will help you reach your goals, but healthy, well paced weight loss and exercise will be more long-lasting.

• You should have developed the exercise habit by now so it should be getting easier to get into it each day.

If you’re getting bored mix up your activities and try something new.

• Make sure you reward yourself for your efforts: it’s easier to be good when you know that every now and again you can be bad.

3 months out • Hopefully you’ve reached or nearly reached your goals and are now starting a maintenance plan. It’s important to make sure that you have time to have your dress fitted well before the wedding to avoid last minute alterations.

• Keep the exercise up as a way to help beat the stress as the wedding day approaches.

• Do be aware of the risk of injury so play it safe with your sporting activities to avoid any disasters in the lead up.

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beauty timeline 12 months out: • If you have any skin issues that concern you such a rosacea, acne, pigmentation, broken capillaries or dermatitis it would be a good time to go and see a professional if you haven’t already done so. Understanding the condition and getting it under control now can help keep flare-ups at bay later on.

• Similarly, if you have any problems with your hair such as brittleness, thinning, colour issues or your concerned about the length, the more time you have to work with a hairdresser you trust the happier you’ll be on the big day. It’s impor tant to remember that your hair is an intrinsic part of your identity and when it isn’t working for you it can have a big impact on your confidence.

Beauty

Exercise and good nutrition will undoubtedly have a positive impact on your appearance but a regime of skin, hair and body care in the lead up to your wedding day will be the icing on the cake. Depending on how much time you leave yourself you need to focus your attention on your skin (face and body) and hair (including hair removal) as well as your teeth. Looking good, and knowing you do is a big confidence boost for any bride - and groom – so should be a priority as you plan for the wedding.

While there are a huge range of DIY products available for the budget conscious it may be wor th splurging on a few treatments as you get yourself in tip top shape. This might include having your eyebrows professionally shaped, hair professionally coloured or even Botox done. Whether you need a lot of work or a little work, professional treatments or simply need to source corrective makeup products to help boost your confidence, it’s impor tant to get on top of these issues early on. The more organised you are the less stressed you will be in the final countdown when things will be at their most manic.

Wedding Day Tool Kit • Basic makeup to touch up your foundation, lips and eyes.

• Cotton tips for tidying up tear affected eye makeup.

• Small hairspray for errant hair.

• Fragrance/perfume.

• Facial mist to refresh your skin.

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• If you want to go down the track of treatments such as Botox or fillers, it’s best to try these now too. This is will allow them to wear off if they don’t work for you in the way you want.

• Day to day you need to make sure you’re drinking plenty of water, eating well and using a basic skin care regime of cleansing and moisturising. Also make sure you wear sunscreen and don’t forget to pamper your hands and feet.

• It is also impor tant not to forget your teeth. If you feel as though you need to have some cosmetic dental work or whitening done, now is the time to look into what you may need.

• Finally, get as much sleep as you can.

6 months out: • If you haven’t seen a beauty therapist yet it might be a good idea to look into deeper cleansing or moisturising treatments to have on a monthly basis. While home kits may be cheaper, it is impor tant to make sure you understand your skin type first.

• If you’re thinking of getting a spray tan, try a few out first. Many disasters have come for brides and bridesmaids alike when a tan has turned out wrong. There a number of shades and types of tan you can try so it’s best to be sure which is going to suit your skin ahead of time.

• Make sure you and you hairdresser are on the same page when it comes to the look you want for your big day. Keep up with your trims and hair care routine. Don’t experiment too much with colour unless

what you have simply doesn’t suit you. Try subtle highlights first and build up.

• Again, maintain your usual skincare regime and ensure you use sunscreen and drink plenty of water.

• If you are feeling stressed about the wedding plans, try massage, yoga or acupuncture to try to keep yourself relaxed and calm.

• Get as much sleep as you can.

3 months out • Now is the time to refine your skincare regime to get the best out of your skin for your wedding day. Check with a beauty therapist for ‘emergency’ treatments in case of a breakout or other skin issue.

• Book in for your hair removal treatments and plan to have them done at least a few of days ahead. Remember that you need to do this before you have your tan applied.

• Get your eyebrows professionally shaped so they can simply be maintained in the lead up.

• Have a few practices for your hair styling to make sure that it’s going to suit your gown and hair accessories and make sure you have your makeup done at the same time.

It is impor tant that if it’s not exactly what you want you have time to try something different.

• Get your nails done and then maintain them until the wedding day. Keep your hands moisturised and wear gloves to do any cleaning or gardening work. Try a pedicure as well and a foot massage to help you relax.

• As before, drink plenty of water, sleep well and use relaxation techniques to help you to keep calm.

On the day Your beauty regime doesn’t stop on the morning of your wedding, indeed preparing your skin for makeup, weather and happy tears will ensure you spend less time in the ladies room and more time with your new husband, friends and family. Getting your makeup done professionally or at least using professional products will ensure a longer lasting finish. Go for waterproof mascara and long lasting lipsticks or coloured glosses and light foundation or tinted moisturiser that can be easily touched up if required. Make sure you or your Matron of Honour has a small stash for touch-ups during the day but keep it simple.

Manscaping

Happily, these days it’s not all about the bride so there are plenty of services and products available to help your man look his best for the wedding. He can follow the same timeline as you including professional help if he needs it for any skin issues, hair or teeth problems. If he’s willing he could indulge in a manicure and pedicure, hair removal and even a spray tan.

It’s easy for men to get overlooked as we focus on the bride and you may assume your man wouldn’t be interested in getting himself tidied up, but a bit of man pampering can help to relieve his stress as well as boost his confidence. Many spas and beauty therapists offer couple treatments, so it might be nice to have a few relaxing yet purposeful treatments together. You could consider body scrubs, facials or body masks.

Planning and awareness of your health and beauty needs are important to ensuring your confidence and vitality leading up to your

wedding day. Budgeting for these kinds of treatments and extras is important when you’re planning what you can spend on your wedding.

With a little pampering and a good routine both bride and groom will look their best and feel their best on what will be an amazing day.

Tips for him: • Facial hair - get a professional trim to ensure an even and tidy beard or goatie.

• Similarly, a trip to the hairdresser for general maintenance including any stray nose or ear hairs.

• Skin products for men are a must especially those that ensure that his skin is protected from razor burn. There are also cleansers, moisturisers, scrubs and serums.

• Manicure and pedicure.

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DreamTeam Find your

You’re getting married and you want to look your best. You will be showing your children photos of this day for decades to come. It’s time to put that chocolate down, grab those running shoes and tame that mono-brow. These North Coast beauties are here to help you look good and feel great for your big day.

beauty

hairdressing

beauty

health & fitness

abbey hair studio

abbey hair studio

We can cater for your special day with four senior hair stylists and a combined 30 years of experience.

Come and relax in our studio and let us make you feel special and beautiful for your wedding.

Shop 2/ 13 Vernon Street Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 6651 4932

alstonville rejuvenation Beauty & Skin Care Clinic

blush make up and beauty studio

COFFS COAST HEALTH CLUB

We have been a leading salon in the area for over 25 years and the only Ella Bache stockist on the northern rivers.

Specialising in exquisite facials, waxing, tinting, manicures, pedicures, spray tanning and professional makeup services. We cater for every beauty need in the lead up to your big day!

Shop 2/76 Main St Alstonville 02 66285877 alstonville.rejuvenation@gmail.com

A team of passionate and highly skilled makeup and beauty therapists.

Come to our beautiful studio and be pampered. Treatments leading up to the wedding and makeup on the day.

All of your beauty needs are covered here at Blush.

Shop 14, City Boulevard Arcade, Harbour Dr, Coffs Harbour 02 6652 1100 Find us on Facebook

We know you both want to look and feel the best on your big day and that’s why we developed The Wedding Ready Program. It is simply the fastest, safest and most motivating way for you to achieve your desired goals. Our trainers are waiting to help you move more, eat right and LIVE LIFE! 600B Hogbin Drive, Toormina 02 6658 6222 www. coffscoasthc.com.au

beauty

hair & Beauty

hair & Beauty

beauty

Photo: Peter Sechi

ella bache coffs harbour

Enjoy the relaxing ambiance in our salon treating yourself, friends and family for your special day from facial treatments, waxing, gel or shellac nails, eyelash extensions, tanning and make up, we have it all covered at Ella Bache!

Shop 2, City Centre, Harbour Dr, Coffs Harbour 6650 0800

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finelines beauty salon

DMK Paramedical Skin Treatments, DMK Paramedical Skin Products, Waxing & Tinting, Eyelash Extensions, Shellac Nails, Professional Make up & Cosmetic Tattooing remove - rebuild maintain - protect 361 Harbour Dr, Coffs Harbour 6651 5559 www.finelinesbeauty.com.au finelinesbeauty@gmail.com

North Coast WEDDINGS

Gloss Hair Artistry

We specialise in providing the ultimate bridal hair & makeup package’s for your big day. Be it at your home or in our boutique salon, you will be pampered! We pride ourselves in making your day as special as you deserve. Call us today for a personal quote.

Shop 4/5-129 Magellan St Lismore 6621 6680 glosshairartistry@hotmail.com Find us on Facebook

inroe hair and beauty

Gorgeous Hair, Beautiful Makeup, Your Perfect Day! Award winning ‘total look’ stylists 2012. Styling the North Coast’s most stylish brides since 1993. Wedding Pamper Packages are our specialty. Call Now to avoid disappointment.

Shop 18-20 Cinema Walk Arcade, 11 Vernon Street, Coffs Harbour 6651 5991 www.inroehair.com

Photos: Chasing Summer Photography

beauty & Hair

hair & Beauty

Jane Smith Hair & design

Mobile Make-up Artists & Hairdressers Yes, we come to you!

Coffs Harbour 0411 512 175 nicole@instyleweddingsandformal. com

We offer the very best in bridal hair and make up, allow Jane and her team of professionals to pamper you on your wedding day, at your home or accomodation. using the very best products, M.A.C and Napoleon. They will make you look and feel truely amazing on your special day.

Byron Bay 6684 7756 / 0437 965 968 www.janesmithbridal.com.au

hairdressing

beauty

InStyle Wedding & Formal Services

living doll premier stylists

Luxe make up

Awarding winning and top of their game, the team at Living Doll sure know how to pamper a girl! With years of experience doing what they love, they have great passion and skill. It doesn’t matter what look you want, your stylist will work with your hair type to get the perfect style for you.You will dazzle with Living Doll.

360-362 Harbour Dr, Jetty Strip 02 6699 2122 www.livingdollcreations.com

Sarah at luxe makeup believes in combining her vast experience with with passion and talent. Always keeping up with current trends and products I guarentee a personal and friendly service with attention to detail that will ensure you get the perfect result.

From a natural look to something more glamorous and all done in the comfort of your own home.

0415 900 390 luxe.makeup@hotmail.com

beauty

beauty

Narina Carter creations Make-up, Nails & Costume Hire We offer a vast range of freelance services plus the comfort and privacy of a sophisticated home salon. Melbourne trained in all makeup styles, with the latest nail techniques and products so you can truly have the look you want on your special day.

Bellingen 0421 968 809 narinacarter@yahoo.com.au

project makeup

With over 6 years experience in the makeup field, Alissa has worked for leading prestige cosmetic brands Clinique, Chanel and Napoleon Perdis. She is currently expanding her knowledge into the art of Airbrush Makeup to provide clients with an absolutely flawless, seamless and unfaltering finish every time.

Coffs Harbour 0424 666 555 projectmakeup@hotmail.com

beauty

hairdressing

Redz Hair Studio

With over 12 years in the Beauty industry, Redz Hairstudio offers a full range of hair & makeup services.

Call us for bookings and quotations:

Park Beach Plz, Coffs Harbour 02 6652 5722 www.redzhairstudio.com www.facebook.com/redzhairstudio

Mickeela Toneycliffe Make-Up Artist

Hi everyone! I am a passionate make-up artist and love to create gorgeous make-up in any style you desire. I will come to you, take care of you and your entire bridal party and help make your day memorable and fun.

Coffs Harbour 0423 773 430 www.facebook.com/ mickeelatoneycliffe.makeupartist

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NaturalBeauty Combine the Australian bush with a touch of vintage lace for a natural feel to your wedding.

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Meet the team that made this happen on page 109

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What is an

e:session?

When looking in to your wedding photographer, one important factor to consider is whether or not they offer an engagement session, otherwise known as an e-session. An e-session is an informal photo session, prior to the wedding day.

The approach that Mihaja Photography takes to the e:session is much like a lifestyle shoot it’s the perfect way to photograph you and your other half doing what you love to do. The theme is entirely up to you: if you love having picnics together, let’s have a picnic; if you love having good coffee together, let’s go to your favourite café; or if you love being big kids together, let’s go to a theme park!

In the Mihaja Photography Collections, we offer

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an e:session as a complimentary inclusion. For us, they are an important part of the entire wedding experience because the relationship between client and photographer is very important and through this session we will get to know one another better. It’s the perfect chance to get comfortable in front of our cameras and iron out anything you may be feeling uncomfortable about with regards to your wedding photographs. Let’s face it! We aren’t all supermodels.

We also believe it’s important that you have some beautiful images taken of you while you spend some much needed and important time just being the two of you. An e:session is going to be great fun, and an opportunity to get a

gorgeous, professional record of your relationship away from the formality of the wedding day.

The photographs you receive from e:session can also be a great addition to your wedding preparations. We can create a customised guest book from your images or you can use them for ‘save the date’ cards. The ideas are endless!

If you love the idea of an e:session we know of some great locations, but what we love even more, is when you come with an idea that is totally built around what the two of you love doing together.

It should be about you as a couple. If you aren’t sure, check out our blog and our past e:sessions for some great ideas.

Global Style on the North Coast Marlowe House is a new wedding and holiday venue located at Woolgoolga, 17km north of Coffs Harbour. Set on beachfront acreage with an eclectic bush style, it is set to be one of the most popular venues for couples searching for a unique place to wed.

Owner, actress Peta Wilson, bought the land 17 years ago with visions of one day building her dream house. After camping on the land for many years before building, she collaborated with stylist Mark Vassallo on the design and as a result, has successfully built a beautiful house that is in keeping with its natural surroundings. Kangaroos, Kookaburras, turtles and owls are just some of the wildlife that calls the land home. Built on land that once was a sacred birthing place for Aboriginal mothers, Marlowe House has serenity and magic that calms the spirit and sooths the soul.

Every nook and cranny is decorated with worldly treasures, brought home by the owners on their many travels. There is a great mix of modern and antique furnishings and art with

the house boasting all the mod cons. The four metre verandas that surround the house haven’t escaped the decorative touch either and they are the perfect place to enjoy the view.

Weddings here are in the more than capable hands of local event co-ordinator and owner of Coffs Coast Weddings and Events, Judy Heffernan.

She will cater to your every need and make sure that your day is just as you desire. Weddings here can be planned for 30 - 150 guests. You can have the ceremony and reception on the lawns, listening to the waves, on the beach or next to the beautiful dam with the kangaroos and other wildlife or on the wide verandas.

You are sure to have beautiful photos and memories of your wedding here. If you are looking for a venue with a difference then you can’t go past Marlowe House.

For more information go to the website www.marlowehouse.com or contact Judy on 0411 528 493.

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real real north northcoast coastweddings weddings

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Renee & Rama THE MEETING We met during a family wakeboarding trip on the Nepean River. He got my number and contacted me to go on a date. He took me to see a band followed by a day of wakeboarding on the river. Since that weekend, we have only ever spent a few nights apart.

THE PROPOSAL We were sitting on the verandah one afternoon watching the sun go down. It was almost a year to the day after we bought our home. We were talking about our holiday to America, which was

coming up in a few days when he asked me whether I still wanted to get married. I said yes and continued to keep chatting about other things when he pulled the ring out of his pocket and said: “Well, you might want to put this on then”.

He had arranged a bottle of pink Moet to celebrate and I called my mother and mother-in-law immediately to announce our engagement. He said he wanted to propose to me somewhere special to him and where we could always revisit the moment – the verandah of our first home.

Bride and Groom: Renee Dane & Rama Chandler Wedding Ceremony: Chapel Courtyard Aanuka Beach Resort, Coffs Harbour Reception: Aanuka Beach Resor t, Coffs Harbour Photos: Chasing Summer Photography

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THE WEDDING DAY

THE THEME

THE BRIDESMAIDS & GROOMSMEN

I spent the morning with the bridesmaids, friends, my mother and my mother-in-law getting ready with hair and make-up. Rama had breakfast with his groomsmen and they all got ready together.

When I walked down the aisle I could not stop smiling. I was relieved to see Rama standing in front of all our friends and family and I felt so relaxed as I joined him.

We exchanged our vows and a few tears and we were married! During the photo session, our guests were served canapés and drinks on the breakers room deck where we later joined them before the reception began. It was impor tant to Rama and I to have a shor ter time for photographs so that we could also enjoy time with the guests before being formally introduced into the reception room.

We stayed at Aanuka in the Spa Bure Room where the bridesmaids had set up candles and flower petals throughout.

It was a relaxed and elegant resor t style wedding with a classic sophisticated feel. As everyone was traveling from Sydney for the wedding, it was really impor tant to us to have everyone feel relaxed. Having the wedding experience with friends and family go over a few days meant we weren’t left feeling like the day had come and gone too quickly.

The bridesmaids wore strapless ‘tiffany’ blue dresses with a sweethear t neckline and ruffles.

The groomsmen wore tailored classic grey suits with white shirts and black ties, while Rama wore the same suit with a silver/grey tie.

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THE FLOWERS I had a large posy style bouquet of roses in shades of white, ivory, and pale pinks. The bridesmaids had the same posies but slightly smaller. I chose purple Vanda orchids for the reception.

THE DRESS I wore a Suzanna Blazevic designed, ivory silk gown with French lace and ruffles and Tony Bianco ivory-white opened toe shoes embellished with diamante bows above the toes.

THE RECEPTION We had a relaxed and elegant resor t style wedding with colours of mint ‘tiffany’ blue (inspired by the bridesmaid dresses) and ivory.

At the reception we had a local band play. The vocalist had also sung earlier at the ceremony and he was amazing.The reception ran smoothly with the usual traditions of a wedding, speeches and cutting the cake. I made sure I ate the meal and enjoyed the food.

Everyone snacked from the lolly buffet which was a big hit. Rama and I found some time during the reception to take the bridal par ty away again for a few photos and to chat about the day. We also had another moment to ourselves away from everyone where we could

watch the sun set. Those few moments alone were impor tant and we just reminded each other again how happy the day had made us and how ecstatic we were to be finally married.

The meal was a sit-down three course meal with pre-reception canapés served earlier on the lawn. The reception was also fun and playful with a lolly buffet. The lollies were labeled with fun phrases, for example the mints were labeled ‘Mint to be’ and musks were ‘Musk be love’.

We also had Red Velvet cake pops as bonbonnieres. The bonbonniere had a message: ‘sweet of you to attend’, for the guests.

MEMORABLE MOMENT There are two moments that are equally as special: our personalised vows and the first dance were magical.

I was so nervous walking towards Rama and the nerves were mostly about speaking in front of everyone, but as soon as I saw his face all of my nerves disappeared and I was relaxed and excited. When it came to our first dance, it was

the most unforgettable moment.

Not to be too clichéd but I honestly find it hard to put that moment into words. It encapsulated the whole day and the way we felt about each other. We just listened to the music and danced looking into each other’s eyes. There could have been any number of people at the wedding and we wouldn’t have noticed one of them in that moment. It was truly magical.

TRASH THE DRESS Even though I had spent so much money on the dress, I knew it was something I would only wear once, so we thought we’d get some amazing photos in the water.

We now have them hanging on our wall. I highly recommend it to anyone who has a good ‘you only live once’ attitude.

THE SUPPLIERS FLOWERS: Moonee Blooms Website: www.mooneebloomsflorist.com.au DRESS: : Personalised Weddings Couture Phone: 02 9558 5648 CELEBRANT/ MINISTER: Gayle McCosker Phone: 02 66 55 2997 CEREMONY AND RECEPTION: Aanuka Beach Resort Website:www.breakfreeaanukabeachresort.com.au WEDDING NIGHT ACCOMMODATION: Annies Bed and Breakfast Phone: 0421 914 295 PHOTOGRAPHER: Chasing Summer Photography Website: www.chasingsummerphoto.com HAIR & MAKE-UP: Jolin Style – Jolin Shead Website: www.jolinstyle.com.au SUITS: Myer Website: www.myer.com.au CAKE: Modern Cake Creations Website: www.moderncakecreations.com.au Wicked Berries (modern cakes subsidiary) also supplied the chocolate covered strawberries DECORATOR: Special Occasions Website: www.specialoccasions.net.au

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real north coast weddings

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Tania & Darren THE MEETING Darren was the coach for the local women’s soccer competition that many of my girlfriends played in. On weekends when I would go to suppor t my friends, I found myself more interested in the coach than the game. Post soccer drinks turned into me getting to know Darren on a personal level and from there our feelings began to grow.

THE PROPOSAL I would love to say that it all ran smoothly but that would be a lie. We were on a family holiday near Coffs Harbour. Darren had booked

a surprise dinner for the two of us, which I was looking forward too. After playing golf all day, he picked me and we drove to the restaurant.

As we arrived he mentioned that he forgot his diabetic needles and we would have to head back to get them. I then noticed Darren had Google maps open between his knees. We kept driving and driving and I was saying angrily: “You’re lost aren’t you? You’ve been playing golf all day and the one thing you’ve planned for us and you have no idea how to get there!

Just great!” A few minutes later we pulled into Emerald Beach where I was wined and dined at Saltwater Café. After dinner we took a walk

Bride and Groom: Tania Schroder & Darren Desmid Wedding Ceremony: Glenrock Gardens, Tenterfield Reception: The croquet lawn and marquee at Glenrock Gardens, Tenterfield Photos: Chasing Summer Photography

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real north coast weddings

along the beach where Darren dropped to one knee and said: “You are my lover, my best friend and the person I want to grow old with. Will you marry me?” To which I said yes! A waiter arrived with a bottle of Chandon to celebrate our exciting news!

THE WEDDING DAY The wedding day star ted with a champagne breakfast, my best friends and a little bit of rain. The groomsmen were finishing off last minute touches, looking to accommodate all weather conditions, before donning their suits.

The rain broke while we were getting our hair and make up done and the perfect day for a wedding star ted to take shape. We rode in white vintage cars to Glenrock Gardens and in typical fashion, I was 30 minutes late to the ceremony. Ben Harpers ‘not fire, not ice” played in the background while I walked down the aisle to where the groomsmen waited on a pontoon in the water. Doves were released throughout the ceremony to symbolise our love for one

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another. After the signing of the registry we were showered with rose petals. We had group photos and then the guests were escor ted to a garden party for mezze platters, croquet and acoustic music, while we had our photos taken.

On our arrival back to the marquee each of the bridal party entered with individual dance routines to different songs. The reception provided the perfect ambiance for canapés, speeches, lots of dancing and our first dance to Dave Matthews Band “lover lay down”. The whole day was truly magical.

THE THEME The theme of our day was classic black and white with a hint of vintage. Everything from the invitations to the bridal party to the decorations reflected this beautifully. A touch of colour was introduced through the flowers and a candy bar, which had an assortment of black, white and pink lollies. Pale pink and ivory rose petals were scattered over the deck where we were married and thrown by the guests after the

signing of the registry. Our wedding cake was round, three-tiered and decorated in black and white trimmings.

THE RECEPTION The reception was held in a marquee lined with white draping. Two large chandeliers were stunning features that lit the room up. It was cocktail style with a mix of white leather lounges, round and square tables, white ottomans and bar tables. Spare Chef Catering provided the guests with delicious hot and cold canapé’s.

Some of the favourites included a Duck Tartlet with Por t and Red Currant Glaze, Potato Rosti with Smoked Salmon and Horseradish Cream, Thai Prawn Salad on Asian spoons and the Pork and Shitake Mushroom Gyoza with Sesame and Soy. A candy bar provided a sweet option for guests all night long and our wedding cake was served with cream and berry coulis as desser t.

Delicious!!!!

Choosing music is something that takes a little time and effor t.

Start compiling a list of your favourite songs early.

THE FLOWERS Roses represent love and affection to me so I couldn’t think of any better flower for our wedding. The bridesmaids had soft pink, ivory and apricot roses, while my bouquet was mainly ivory with a pale pink rose scattered throughout.

The groomsmen wore a single pale pink rose while Darren wore the ivory. The reception was also filled with roses. Simply elegant!

THE DRESS I wore a Maggie Sottero & Midgely design called ‘Adorae’. It fitted my body perfectly and gave me that glow that every bride is looking for. It had a sweethear t neckline, Swarovski crystal beaded feature under the bust, lace-up back and was fitted with a rouged fishtail dress.

THE BRIDESMAIDS & GROOMSMEN The bridesmaid dresses were made to fit each of them perfectly. They wore black, knee length A-lined dresses made of satin. Each girl had a different neckline made of French black

lace to create a slight point of difference. The groomsmen wore fitted, black Flair Industrie suits. The groomsmen wore the black tie while Darren wore the ivory to match my dress.

THE SUPPLIERS

MEMORABLE MOMENT

CELEBRANT/ MINISTER: Narelle Harvey Phone: 0407 674 283

Darren and I released two white doves during our ceremony as a symbol of our unity and love for one another. They flew into a nearby willow tree where they stayed for the next two hours being a par t of our special day.

THE HONEYMOON We went on two! We went to Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia soon after the wedding to catch up with friends of ours who had traveled out for our big day. We then went to Croatia, Turkey and Greece, in July 2012. Wow, Wow, Wow! I’m so spoiled and we created so many more unforgettable memories.

FLOWERS: Winter & Garnetta Phone: 02 67365053 DRESS: Abbey Bridal Sydney Website: www.abbeybridal.com.au

RECEPTION: GLEN ROCK GARDENS Phone: www.carolynrobinson.com.au WEDDING NIGHT ACCOMMODATION: Aanuka Beach Resort Phone: (02) 6652 7555 Website: www.breakfreeaanukabeachresort.com.au PHOTOGRAPHER: Chasing Summer Photography Phone: 02 6652 4924 MAKE-UP & HAIR: 3 Wishes Day Spa Phone: 02 6736 5001 JEWELLER: Williams the Jeweller Website: www.williamsthejeweller.com SUITS: Myer, Chatswood Website: www.myer.com.au WEDDING NIGHT ACCOMMODATION: Sylvan Park Website: www.sylvanpark.com.au CAKE: Sue Plank cake decorator Website: www.weddingcakesandoccasions.com.au North Coast WEDDINGS

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Coast meets Country Coastal glamour meets country romance in this charming beach wedding. Pure white pieces, simple shapes and a cool sea breeze lend a sense of clean freshness to this theme.

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Easy romance is inspired by glass bottles, daisies and lace. Simple styling lets nature take centre stage.

Styling & photography by One love Weddings

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real real north northcoast coastweddings weddings

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North Coast WEDDINGS

Katie & Matt THE MEETING

Bride & Groom: Katie Alchin & Matt Lill Wedding Ceremony: Oxley Beach on the grass Reception: Rooftop of Mercure Centro Photography: Reflectionz Photography

We first met nearly 9 years ago when we worked at the same place. One day Matt broke his leg playing football. He acted all tough in front of me but the next day he asked me to take him to the hospital.

We spent all that day waiting there and that’s when he got the courage to ask me out.

got dressed and had photos on the front balcony with the photographer, Suzie, and then the Kombi’s arrived.

When we got to the reception, I was so nervous they had to get me water. I skipped down to the beach to take away some of my nerves. The weather was ideal and everything was set up perfectly.

THE PROPOSAL

THE DRESS

THE SUPPLIERS

The proposal was really romantic but funny at the same time. We were on a cruise with our friends and were having fun on the main deck when Matt and our friends talked me into going to another deck. As we went under the Harbour Bridge Matt proposed.

I thought he was joking so I hit his hand laughing and he nearly dropped the ring. When I realised that it was real I was in tears.

My dress was from Bella Rose, it was strapless with some feathers. It had just enough detail on the bodice and then just dropped to the floor.

It was French lace and felt very soft to touch.

I had been trying on dresses in Sydney, Foster and Coffs Harbour, but when I tried this one on I immediately knew it was my favourite!!

DRESS: Bella Rose Collections Website: www.bellarosecollections.com.au

THE BRIDESMAIDS & GROOMSMEN

JEWELLERY: Prouds Website: www.prouds.com.au

THE WEDDING DAY The morning was so much fun. The girls all stayed at my Mum and Dads’ house and when we woke up Mum had breakfast ready for us.

My hairdressers, Dee and Nicole, arrived and we star ted doing hair in between sitting on the balcony in the sun. It was the best day, very casual and relaxing.

The boys all played golf and then got ready at a friend’s house. Later Jenny came and did our makeup and I was very calm until our celebrant rang to talk, then I became very nervous. We

The bridesmaids dresses were from Forever New. Honestly they were the first piece of clothing my mum and I have ever agreed on so I took it as a sign!

The groomsmen wore grey suits with purple shir ts and purple ties.

Salad and Chicken Crepes for entrees, then a choice of chicken or steak dishes for the mains.

We served the cake for desser t.

MEMORABLE MOMENT We both agree that our favourite moment was when I was walking down the aisle with our friends and family around us.

SUITS: Roger David Website: www.rogerdavid.com.au HAIR: Seiki Hair Dee and Nicole Website: www.seikihair.com.au MAKE-UP: Nutrimetics

CELEBRANT/ MINISTER: Rainbow Ceremonies (Sue Cutts)

THE RECEPTION We had a sit-down meal. Once we got to the reception they brought out the meals really quickly. We had all of the formalities out of the way early so everyone could just relax and enjoy the night. We had Thai Beef and Noodle North Coast WEDDINGS

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real north coast weddings

chic and boutique

20 boutique wedding ideas

If you think that it’s only in the big city and with a huge budget that you can have a unique, glamorous and oh so stylish wedding, you need to think again.

There are a number of vendors on the North Coast that have the expertise, creativity and resources to give you the wedding of your dreams. So whether you want that super special boutique venue, a caterer with that extra vavoom or the luxurious naughtiness of a lolly buffet, we have a provider to suit.

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AMILEKA

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A stunning architecturally designed house set in lush green grounds, Amileka has breaktaking views, particularly at sunset.This venue is truly unique in many ways, from the building itself through to the garden chef that grows the produce then cooks it for you. Venue hire depends on each individual event. Amileka can provide beautiful intimate weddings or cater for up to 150 guests with a large marquee site. This gorgeous property does not offer you accommodation however it is only 25 minutes to Byron Bay, where there are plenty of options to suit everyone.

Byron Bay Hinterland 0408 514 352 or 1300 911 720 sarah@uniqueestates.com.au

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3 bangalow guesthouse

BELLE HELENA

A gorgeous heritage style home with English gardens, Bangalow Guesthouse sits on the banks of the Byron Creek. Located on the main street of charming Bangalow the property has easy access to the town but is tucked away and private. Weddings of any size can be catered to here from groups of 40 to 70 in the house and up to 120 on the lawns in a marquee. For a hire fee of $3500 and a minimum three-night stay, Bangalow Guesthouse is a magical venue for your wedding.

As you entre the gates the excitement builds.

Unsurpassed for it’s grandeur and facilities a wedding at Belle Helena will leave you and your guests reeling. The property boasts a 25-metre lap pool, tennis court, cinema, gymnasium, bocce field, driving range and more. For a hire fee of $6000, it is worth every cent. Twenty-two of your favourite people can share this proper ty with you for a minimum of three nights and with views of the Byron Bay lighthouse, you will share memories to last a lifetime.

Byron Bay Hinterland 0408 514 352 or 1300 911 720 sarah@uniqueestates.com.au

Byron Bay Hinterland 0408 514 352 or 1300 911 720 sarah@uniqueestates.com.au

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Byron View Farm With 360 degree, sweeping ocean to mountain views, Byron View Farm is the highest proper ty in the Byron Shire. This 100-year-old farmhouse combines all the mod cons with the charm of yesteryear and is only 10 minutes to Byron Bay. Here you can have a wedding for up to 80 guests or a more intimate sit-down event sprawled on the verandah for up to 40. Venue hire is $4500 with a three night minimum stay. Stay in the private cottage before and after your big day and really make the most of this special place.

Byron Bay Hinterland 0408 514 352 or 1300 911 720 sarah@uniqueestates.com.au

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Clarendon Forest Retreat

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Within 20 minutes of the beach and 30 minutes of Forster, Clarendon is a 1000-acre luxury retreat, nestled in Kiwarrak State Forrest. There are eight unique cottages to choose from, all with private heated spa pools for the ultimate in luxury. A great place to base yourselves for a destination wedding and really enjoy this special time in your life. Catering to weddings of varying sizes, Clarendon Forest Retreat is a haven for your big day.

Failford, near Taree 02 6554 3162 www.cfr.com.au

coffs coast event catering Mobile caterers at a venue of your choice.

Select from finger food, buffet, set menus, gourmet BBQ’s, Indian, Thai, Moroccan – the list goes on. All our food is homemade from fresh local ingredients. Price includes everything, crockery, cutlery, service equipment and staff.

Call or email Annette for menus and pricing.

Coffs Coast 02 6653 6262 annettecook1@bigpond.com Find US on FACEBOOK

DEUX BELETTES

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In a word – stunning! Hidden behind tall trees, on a quiet country lane is this 16th century style French Chateau.This place will leave you speechless as you wander around. The rich tapestry of stone walls covered in climbing roses, pebbled pathways leading to little alcoves and courtyards more beautiful than the last… this charming B&B has sufficient accommodation for the bridal party.There truly is a fairytale romance about this place and you will not find another venue like it. With access to the area’s finest caterers, efficient hire companies, warm friendly coordinators and stylists, Deux Belettes can help you create an unforgettable event.

Byron Bay Hinterland 02 6629 5377 www.deuxbelettes.com

FIASCO CATERING If you love seriously good Italian fare, then you can’t go past Fiasco Catering. The service is fantastic from beginning to end and they pride themselves on catering to your needs as well as your tastes. Your wedding can have a casual feel, a more formal full service menu or anything in between. Chef and owner Stefano, will happily create a menu just for you. Wedding and competitive beverage packages are available too. You decide the style of your event - cocktail, canapés, sit down meal or buffet – and Fiasco will deliver. Delizioso!

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Coffs Harbour Jetty 02 6651 2006 www.fiascorestaurant.com.au North Coast WEDDINGS

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the glasshouse rainforest retreat

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Aptly located in Wedding Bells State Forest, The Glasshouse Rainforest Retreat is private and perfect for small weddings. Walking into this retreat you feel as though you are embraced by the rainforest. Luxuriously appointed, the property is set on acreage that offers an abundance of local flora and fauna and yet, is only a short drive to local beaches, cafes and shops. If you are looking for privacy, peace and luxury for your wedding, then look no further.

Woolgoolga 02 6654 1148 www.woolgoolgaaccommodation.com.au

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INCATROLE

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This exotic home is a work of ar t! Inspired by the owners world travels, you cannot help but feel you have been transpor ted to a far away land when entering Incatrole. Cocktail style weddings for up to 70 people or a more formal sit-down affair for up to 60 guests are possible here. The wedding experience of a lifetime is only 25 minutes from Byron Bay and can be hired for $4500. There is a three night minimum stay but take our word for it - you will want to stay forever.

Byron Bay Hinterland 0408 514 352 or 1300 911 720 sarah@uniqueestates.com.au

invacauld House Invercauld House is set in 2.5 hectares of tranquil rainforest garden on the edge of Lismore. Their selection of dedicated function rooms and 26 accommodation units, makes Invercauld House a unique venue in the Northern Rivers region. They are fully licensed and specialise in weddings with an onsite garden or gazebo ceremony and seated reception capacity for 120 guests.

Northern Rivers 02 6620 3653 www.invercauldhouse.com.au

North Coast Regional Botanic The most beautiful Garden in Coffs Harbour is ideal for your special day.

In the rose garden…near the lake or waterfall… the Chinese pagoda and many other areas to choose from.

The Botanic Garden is a stunning backdrop for your wedding and photographs, and very convenient for your guests with plenty of parking.

Coffs Harbour Call Julie Belford: 02 6648 4542 www.coffsbotanicgarden.com.au

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LITTLE FISH CAFÉ

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Wonderful cuisine, fine wines and a stunning setting. Little Fish Café at Innes Lake Vineyards provides a variety of interesting and delicious food concepts and can cater for cocktail, buffet or sit-down weddings. The team here will create a range of gourmet foods for everyone to savour at a leisurely pace, keeping with the relaxed atmosphere. Enjoy the casual sophistication of holding your ceremony in the gazebo, then predinner drinks and canapés under the beautiful Jacaranda and Poinciana trees.

Innes Lake Vineyards, Port Macquarie 02 6581 1332 functions@littlefishcafe.com.au

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PETERSONS ARMIDALE WINERY & GUESTHOUSE Set amongst English gardens and a picturesque vineyard, the 100-year-old homestead is a venue with history, charm and luxury. On your wedding day, the friendly staff will take care of everything, allowing you to relax and make the most of this special time in your life. You will have exclusive use of the guesthouse facilities including the gardens for your photographs. The reception can be held inside the guesthouse or why not hire a marquee and enjoy the grounds? Wedding packages include a number of catering styles and Peterson’s red, white and sparkling wines.

Armidale 02 6772 0422 www.petersonsguesthouse.com.au

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THE RESTAURANT AT CASSEGRAIN Romance is in the air at Cassegrain! Only 10 minutes from Port Macquarie, beneath a backdrop of towering trees, lay a beautiful formal rose garden and picturesque vineyard. A private area within the garden awaits you and your guests for a touching and romantic ceremony. Afterwards, have your photographs taken in the vineyards, barrel room and extensive grounds. Then wine and dine in style with family and friends at The Restaurant at Cassegrain. Photo: Renee Bell Studios Port Macquarie 02 6582 8320 or 0407 855 231 www.cassegrain-restaurant.com

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17 savouries with a twist What ever style of wedding you are planning, whether it’s table service, buffet style, breakfast or a cocktail party, let Savouries With a Twist take the stress away by discussing your menu options and designing a menu to suit your requirements.

We use the freshest local produce, catering to all dietry requirements, elegantly presented by our experienced team.

To make plans for your ocassion please call Robin for personal service.

Coffs Coast 02 6658 4254 or 0438 487 344 info@savourieswithatwist.com.au

Tea & Treasures

sweet intentions lolly buffet Retro, vintage or modern styled, Sweet Intentions can create a lolly buffet that will excite even the biggest kids. They will design the space to suit your theme including ornate containers, scoops, little signs and decorative items. The attention to detail will create a focal point at your reception that will have everyone wanting dessert for dinner.The girls will come to any venue on the Mid North Coast and pride themselves on service that is second to none. If you want a lolly buffet at your wedding then Sweet Intentions is a great choice.

Port Macquarie 0412 169 749 www.facebook.com/ sweetintentionslollybuffets

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Tea & Treasures has been established in Por t Macquarie, on the beautiful Mid Nor th Coast NSW. This beautifully restored 1920’s cottage operates as a quant tea house by day and an elegant and sophisticated venue by night. The lovely cottage garden is perfect for your ceremony. From famous High Tea’s to a delightful cocktail party, they can host weddings from 10 people to 70. With a delightful outdoor covered veranda space to 4 large internal rooms, there are a variety of options for any couple. If you are looking for a unique, elegant and special venue for your wedding, visit Tea & Treasures and you will not be disappointed.

Port Macquarie 02 6583 9500 www.teaandtreasures.com.au Facebook.com/teaandtreasures North Coast WEDDINGS

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VERANDAHS This property is beautiful, unique and romantic. Lush gardens offer the ideal setting for ceremonies, photos and pre-dinner drinks and there are views do die for. The house features large wrap around verandahs, ideal for cocktail receptions for up to 80 guests. The gardens can accommodate a marquee for up to 120 guests. Within a shor t distance to pristine beaches, top restaurants and charming townships, Verandahs offers privacy and a feeling of blessed isolation perfect for your special day.

Byron Bay Hinterland 0408 514 352 or 1300 911 720 sarah@uniqueestates.com.au

marlowe house A unique wedding destination set on eight acres of beautiful beach front land, Marlowe House is a venue dreams are made of. Get married on the front lawn with the sound of the waves in the background, by the side of the beautiful dam or on the pristine beach. You are guaranteed to have an incredible wedding and wonderful photos and memories. Marlowe House will cater to different traditions and requests and specialise in assisting couples on a personal basis.

Woolgoolga 0411 528493 www.marlowehouse.com

New fashion label on the North Coast Stocking famous designer labels such as Alfred Angelo, Henry Roth and Brides Desire, bridal boutique, RSVP Bridal and Formalwear, has expanded their impressive range to include their very own label.

With over 8 years in the business, owner Tracey Hickson designed the gowns to compliment the current styles available. “We noticed there was a gap in the market for styles that catered to different body shapes as well as the current trends”, she says adding “No two bodies are the same. We are all different. Every bride deserves to feel confident and special with a perfectly fitted gown”.

With that in mind a small range was launched to suit the current trends of vintage and beach but 46

all gowns have a unique touch.

“We really enjoy what we do and designing this range was a dream come true for me” Tracey says.

RSVP offer an on site dressmaker who has been altering bridal and formal wear for over 30 years, so any of the gowns can be fitted to any bride.

Jewellery by local designer Brooke George and Australian label Peter Trends Bridal Jewellery is available to compliment any look.

RSVP now also stock the divine jewel encrusted range of shoes by Christel Shoes.

RSVP Bridal and Formalwear can be found at the Jetty Strip in Coffs Harbour or online at www.rsvpbridal.com.au.

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How to find the best photographer Mike and Amy are a husband a wife team and have been wedding photographers for some four years now. They have photographed some 200 odd weddings in that time and service an area from Brisbane, down to Sydney and out to Tamwor th. The couple love their job and love sharing in a couple’s special day. “We love to capture the natural expression and emotions of the wedding day, it brings us so much satisfaction” says Amy. During their time in the industry they have been asked many questions about the wedding day. A question that many people have is how to find a good photographer. Amy explains, “You only have one chance to capture your special day and most couples want to ensure that it is captured well. Since the digital age of photography there has been a huge increase in ‘wedding photographers’, but many so-called wedding photographers aren’t professionals in their field and are just gaining experience and

practice from peoples’ weddings”. So how do you know who’s doing it for the love?

Amy points out that it is the industry standard to have an Internet presence, which for brides and grooms makes the process of selecting a photographer a little easier. “Mike and I feel that by doing lots of research and following a few studios online presence, for a period of time, will help in the selection process’, says Amy. To help you decide whether or not a photographer is a professional, Amy suggests to look for the following: • All professional photographers should have an active blog. If they don’t have a blog or their blog is not busy warning bells should sound.

• All professional photographers should have an active Facebook page.

• All professional photographers should have a professional website.

Marlowe House Weddings, events, and holiday rentals

A magical and private residence now available for weddings, events and special holidays.

Marlowe House is set on 8 acres of beautiful beachfront land in Woolgoolga, NSW. Its a wedding venue dreams are made from.

Bookings and enquires: Nicole Cardow Real Estate Phone: 02 6654 1148 tamy@nicolecardow.com.au

marlowehouse.com

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the road less travelled

Organising a Wedding Feast With the wide variety of options available it is possible to find a style of catering that will suit your theme or ‘couple personality’, a caterer will make your vision real.

In most cultures the wedding feast is a very impor tant par t of the wedding day. Days and weeks of planning and cooking go in to providing the most sumptuous feast that families can afford with the sharing of food more than just nourishment but the joyous coming together of families and friends. Traditionally around 40-50% of any wedding budget will go on the reception and the majority of that spend is the catering.

Given that such a huge por tion of your wedding budget will go towards feeding your guests, it’s essential that you get it right. We chat with Stefano and Alex, from Fiasco Catering to get their advice for finding a good wedding caterer.

“Food is such an impor tant par t of a celebration,” says Stefano, Head Chef and owner of Fiasco Catering. “It’s remembered by most people whether it’s good or bad, so why not make it special?” And what will make it special is what you and your groom put into it. First and foremost is being clear as a couple about what you want this part of your wedding

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day to say about you.

With the wide variety of options available it is possible to find a style of catering that will suit your theme or ‘couple personality’. From buffet style, to sit-down meal, cocktail food to themed feast, shared food to put-it-together-yourself style dishes and exotic BBQ to traditional Hungi a caterer will make your vision real.

This is why making sure you have a good relationship with your caterer is so impor tant.

It not only facilitates good communication it will mean that on your wedding day you can feel confident and relaxed because what you think you’ve created for your big day is actually what is going to happen. “This basis of trust and rappor t is crucial in delivering a quality menu that will leave your guests happy and satisfied,” says Stefano. “Meeting up with your caterer for an initial conversation is a great way to see if you like them and if you can trust that they will do the job you expect”.

While what you choose will ultimately

depend on your budget and wedding theme, there are certain things you need to provide and questions you need to ask when deciding which way you should go. “You need to go to a prospective caterer with at least an idea of your guest numbers and style of wedding,” says Alex, Stefano’s mother-in-law and business par tner.

“They can then make suggestions based on that information and can customise your menu to suit”.

Par t of this is giving you realistic expectations about how much food people usually consume at these events and what you will need to order to ensure everyone has enough to eat. “Your wedding day is such a long day for all involved,” says Stefano, “that making sure you have enough food for people is critical”. While you may be surprised at how much food you will need its better to be sure than to have to order in pizza half way through the night.

How and when the food is to be served is also another challenge especially if your wedding

and reception are outside traditional venues.

But this is where the difference between a good caterer and a so-so one really comes in.

A good caterer will not only provide the food but should be able to offer sound advice about what to serve and when to serve it. “You don’t want people getting hungry or feeling sick from too much alcohol and no food,” says Alex, “nor do you want them waiting too long between the ceremony and reception with no where to go and nothing to do”. Good planning by you and your caterer will ensure that the transition from ceremony to reception is not only seamless but enter taining for your guests as well.

As mentioned, there are many catering options out there and a menu from these can be created to suit any budget. When choosing a menu style, it’s important to consider the pros and cons of each. Cocktail parties for example, will see various canapés and sometimes, small plates with small por tions served to your guests but you do need to make sure people eat enough. While buffet service is perfect for large weddings and often has more than enough food, if you have a lot of big eaters you may need to order even more.

The traditional sit-down meal is still a favourite and a great way of spoiling everyone with a more formal affair. It often consists of a minimum of two courses - usually entrée and main, while dessert can be either a third course or the wedding cake, sliced and used instead. While a popular choice, the sit down meal is usually limited to two choices of dish per course.

With so many choices it’s impor tant to get

professional advice. “A good caterer will sit down with you and workout which style of service is most suitable for you and for your budget” Stefano says.

Once you’ve decided what style of reception food you want, the next choices are just as difficult. Selecting the items that go on your menu can be frustrating as you attempt to cater to everyone’s tastebuds. To reduce stress, says Alex, be true to yourself. “A good caterer will want to create a menu that reflects who you are while offering a range of foods that should keep everyone happy,” she says.

This means serving a range of boutique beers if you like beer, having your guests share heavily laden platters Mediterranean style, or organising a vegetarian feast if you’re both vegetarian.

Not only will your guests love the break from the normal chicken and beef found at most weddings, you’ll get to enjoy your favourite foods too. And while some caterers can tend to have their own style and may try to push their own barrow, a good caterer will also find out what you both like and help you to make food choices that will make your wedding unique.

Ultimately, the choice of what is served on the day will come down to what you’ve enjoyed from the tasting. “A good caterer will offer a tasting of everything you’ve decided for your menu,” says Alex. And you should taste all of it.

“There should be no surprises when it comes to the food,” warns Alex. “It should be just as you agreed and just as you expect it”.

A full tasting should be offered before a final menu and final quote are agreed upon. Use the tasting to fine tune your menu, changing

those items that you don’t think will appeal to your guests with other dishes. These should be tasted too. It is important that you are very confident about what is being served to your guests on your wedding day. “It should be fun and memorable for the right reasons,” says Stefano.

When it comes to the day, service of the food is something that the bride and groom shouldn’t have to think about. The details of what has be served and when should have been worked out well in advance. There needs to be a schedule worked out with the caterer in which it is clearly stated what is to be served and to whom if there are guests with special needs, as well as when certain courses will be offered as the reception unfolds.

On the wedding day is up to the caterer to be flexible enough and organised enough to work through any hiccups without having to stress the wedding party. “A good caterer will make sure everything runs smoothly, that the timing of service is kept flowing with the events of the day and that there is no drama,” says Stefano.

While food loving brides and grooms will get a kick out of planning what is essentially their own private restaurant for their wedding day, it’s not for everyone. If food just isn’t that impor tant to you, then by all means, cut back here and spend your money on the entertainment or the photography. Trust in a basic catering service and just make sure there is enough of what you choose or you may soon find that people are hungry and organising a trip to the closest takeaway shop.

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Qualities of a good caterer • Trustwor thy and easy to get along with • Communicates well and meets with you several times • Asks you all about your theme, guest list, likes and dislikes • Caters for any dietary requirements and allergies • Flexibility and ability to meet your needs and wants • Great menus and even custom menus • Ability to help you schedule the food service into your day • Good quality produce • Comprehensive quotes for exactly what you need and want • Attractive packages and pricing • Full tastings of the entire menu • NSW Liquor Licence if they are providing and serving alcohol Stefano (second from right) and his team.

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Where nature and science meet in the name of beauty La Fleur D’Alyse Cosmetic Laser & MediSpa was established by Dr John Wenman and his wife Sister Barbara Wenman over 20 years ago. They offer the latest and safest non-surgical cosmetic treatments to the Coffs Coast and are excited to introduce their new MediSpa to the region.

MediSpa specialises in group bookings with a four person Sauna and eight person Spa. The spacious facility and perfectly manicured gardens make it the ideal venue for a Hen’s party or a quiet retreat before the big day. There is a full range of beauty therapy treatments on offer including, waxing, massage and wedding makeup.

Start your experience with a Champagne foot bath, then unwind with a the lavish 24Kt Gold Facial, the exquisite Pearl Facial, or an exotic Aztec Chocolate Body Treatment. You will be on cloud nine and completely ready for your busy time ahead.

If a little lift and rejuvenation is what you need then La Fleur D’Alyse utilises the latest in anti-

aging techniques used by many Hollywood stars.

You will see lines relax and the face lift right before your very eyes with techniques such as the CACI non-Surgical facelift where the microcurrent stimulates and rejuvenates the muscle, while stimulating the natural production of new collagen.

If that sounds like it’s a step too far for you then consider one of the non-invasive cosmetic treatments including Botox or Dysport to treat forehead lines, crows feet, the neck lines and even excessive sweating.

Regen is the latest cosmetic treatment available.

It’s produced using a small amount of the clients own blood, mixed with a special gel solution and spun in a centrifuge to produce plasma rich cells which are then injected back into the area to be rejuvenated. These cells help to produce collagen and tighten the skin for a more youthful appearance and because it’s your own blood it’s arguably the safest treatment available.

Regardless of your beauty needs, MediSpa has a treatment or package to suit you. So to begin your journey to a younger more vibrant looking you, go online or give them a call for more information. www.lafleurdalyse.com.au Ph: 66528943 Enjoy a pre-wedding spa treat with your bridesmaids and mother and receive a complimentary trial makeup.

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real real north northcoast coastweddings weddings

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Telena & Clint THE PROPOSAL

THE FLOWERS

We had a long distance relationship for a while as Clint was living in New Zealand for work.

The first weekend I went to visit him he took me to a spectacular island called ‘Waiheke’. A few months later, we went back again and he organised the same room. Not long after we arrived he dropped to one knee and proposed.

He must have been pretty nervous!

As my bouquet, I made oversized paper poppies for myself, my bridesmaids, and for the centrepieces. I substituted a flower bouquet with vintage pinwheels that I made. At the end of the day, flowers will only get thrown out, but these are now keepsakes of our day to show our kids.

THE DRESS THE WEDDING DAY We were all staying in apar tments on the beach so we had the most amazing backdrop to get ready. I thought that I would be a nervous wreck, but it was the complete opposite. I heard through the grapevine that Clint was instead, which is very out of character for him!

The ceremony was very special for us, as our six-month old daughter, Willow, was there to be a par t of it. Clint was holding her as I walked down the aisle with my Dad, and this is when I absolutely lost it. I had to get Dad to pinch me on the hand to try and stop me from crying but once the tears star ted, they came flooding in.

After the ceremony, we had our photos taken and the guests enjoyed some drinks while they waited for us.The reception kicked off at around 3pm. The most impor tant par ts of the reception for us were great music, plenty of food and free flowing drinks. We’re pretty sure we achieved that as everyone looked to be having a great time. Clint and I were almost the last to leave.

We were just having too much fun.

My dress was a Vera Wang that I fell in love with in a magazine. I hunted it down and the only place I could get it was from the United States.

We waited nervously for it to clear customs and also because I didn’t know whether it would fit!

It needed taking in a week before the wedding and that was it!

THE BRIDESMAIDS & GROOMSMEN Clint and the groomsmen wore a light navy suit, a custom-made blue and white polka dot tie, and dark tan shoes and belt. My sister, the maidof-honour, was about seven months pregnant and my other bridesmaid has a very slim and fit figure. I found an empire line dress online that suited both of them. It was actually a maternity dress that they both wore.

THE RECEPTION The reception at the Surf Club was very casual cocktail style. We had plenty of food ranging from mini hamburgers to fish and chips served in cones. Towards the end of the night we

Bride & Groom: Telena & Clint Wedding Ceremony: Yamba Lighthouse Reception: Yamba Surf Club Photographer : Emma Rhodes Photography put out a big ham on the bone with rolls and condiments, which went down a treat! We had a live band, which set the mood and they really got everyone dancing. On some tables I had twine and my Nanas’ collection of buttons. The girls were making bracelets and necklaces from them which was a bit of fun and something they could take home as a keepsake. Some are still wearing them now!

MEMORABLE MOMENT There were so many: walking down the aisle with my Dad; looking at my husband-to-be and our beautiful daughter. As a little girl, I always wanted to have ‘Butterfly Kisses’ as my fatherdaughter dance song, so Clint surprised me by singing this for us on the night. It was so special having all of our closest friends and family in the one place.

THE SUPPLIERS DRESS: Vera Wang Website: www.verawang.com CEREMONY: Yamba Lighthouse Website: www.yambansw.com.au RECEPTION: Yamba Surf Club Website: www.yambaslsc.com.au PHOTOGRAPHER: Emma Rhoades Photography Website: www.emmarhoades.com

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real weddings real north northcoast coast weddings

a rustic romance Gorgeous vintage style meets rustic charm in this beautiful romantic wedding

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Meet the team that made this happen on page 109

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Country Roads PHOTOGRAPHER Amber Toms STYLIST Elizabeth DeVere Courtenay MODEL Liz Braithwaite HAIR Living Doll Premier Stylists MAKE UP Mickeela Toneycliffe Make-Up Artist FLOWERS Precious Petals LOCATION Private property, Gleniffer NSW

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PREVIOUS PAGE: RSVP own label gown ‘P1204250’ $1200 and veil available at RSVP Bridal and Formalwear THIS PAGE: Allure Bridal Romance gown ‘2507’ $630, The Tiara Company pearl drop earrings $71 (as part of set) and hair piece $160 from Spurling Coffs Harbour. Ring and cowboy boots stylists own.

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THIS PAGE: Allure Bridal Romance gown ‘8634’ POA, The Tiara Company bangles $89ea. available from Spurling Coffs Harbour.

OPPOSITE: Ella gown ‘5618’ POA from Bella Rose Collections.

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THIS PAGE: Essence of Australia gown ‘D1040’ from Bella Rose Collections; The Tiara Company comb $109 from Spurling Coffs Harbour.

OPPOSITE: Jennifer Gifford Designs ‘Josie’ $2980 available direct only; brooch POA available at RSVP Bridal and Formalwear.

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THIS PAGE: Alfred Angelo Modern Vintage gown ‘8500’ $1200 and earrings POA from RSVP Bridal and Formalwear.

OPPOSITE: Jennifer Gifford Designs ‘Adele’ $3300 available direct only,

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RSVP own label gown ‘P11122602’ and mantilla POA, parasole $55 from RSVP Bridal and Formalwear.

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An Exotic Touch Exotic blossoms, jewel colours, and elegant staging bring a vibrance to this beautifully styled affair.

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A simple fan, bold jewellery, a mix of colour: its the small details that make all the difference in styling your wedding.

Meet the team that made this happen on page 109

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Bonville Golf Resort ‘Australia’s Best Resort Wedding Reception Venue’* Bonville Golf Resor t offers the complete wedding experience with their practised team of staff able to assist with all aspects of your day. From the time of the initial booking right through to the big day, Bonville Golf Resor t’s team cannot be surpassed for professionalism and personalised attention, ensuring that every couple’s special day is all that they hoped it would be.

Winner of the prestigious title of “Australia’s Best Wedding Resort Reception Venue” by the 2011 Australian Bridal Industry Academy Awards for Excellence, the resort offers a number of superb venues for both the ceremony and reception. For example, the tranquil rainforest setting is an idyllic site for an outdoor ceremony, while the Country Club boasts a billabong style swimming pool. There is also the picturesque 1st or 17th holes which take in the stunning beauty of the golf course and surrounds. The Terrace Lawn, adjacent to the federation style clubhouse is an intimate setting for ceremonies, pre-dinner drinks and wedding receptions with the unforgettable & unique backdrop of Bonville’s 18th hole.

Reception venues are varied and cater for all sized weddings, from the smaller intimate receptions held in the Atrium style Gallery on the 1st floor of the Clubhouse to the Classic

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Room also on the 1st floor. The Classic Room recently underwent a refurbishment and is a private, spacious venue surrounded on two sides with large Queenslander style verandahs which overlook the beautiful award winning golf course and gardens. For couples looking for something a little different Bonville offers the Flooded Gums Restaurant and the Terrace Lawn which are both located on the ground floor offering unparalleled views and just metres from the golf course.

The Flooded Gums Restaurant has bifold doors on 3 sides which open onto the magnificent terrace for an alfresco setting on your special day. The Terrace Lawn offers uncompromised views and a memorable setting which will leave you and your guests with enduring memories. For a ‘one of a kind’ wedding day, why not look at whisking your guests away to a secret location on the golf course. On Course ‘WOW’ options include the 1st, 2nd, 10th, 14th, 15th & 17th holes, all of which are individual and stunning in their own way. It’s a special element that no other Nor th Coast venue can offer.

Bonville Golf Resor t continues to be a leader in the Wedding & Catering Industry across NSW. We were recently awarded a ‘Chefs Hat’ for the Flooded Gums Restaurant in the highly

prestigious Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide becoming the first Golf Course/Resort in Australia to do so. The Wedding & Function menus are a reflection of the food served in The Flooded Gums Restaurant, however for those looking for a more relaxed catered wedding Bonville offers menus to suit all tastes.

These include BBQ’s, canapé dinner menus and Carvery, as well as hot dish buffets at very affordable prices.

For your wedding guests, the resort features 30 rooms comprised of resort & executive rooms enabling guests to stay on site. With all receptions of 50 adult guests or more, Bonville provides a complimentary Bridal Suite, full hot breakfast for the bride and groom the next day and a late check out. All of Bonville’s accommodation rooms overlook the first fairway and are fitted with modern conveniences to ensure the best possible nights sleep for you and your guests.

For more information about having your wedding at one of NSW’s most awarded wedding locations, please call Bonville Golf Resort’s experienced Wedding Sales Team on (02) 6653 4002, email sales@bonvillegolf.com. au or visit their website www.bonvillegolf.com. au

Seasonal blooms for your special day Wedding flowers are the ultimate accessory for your wedding day bringing together the colours and theme of your wedding through the creation of gorgeous bouquets, table arrangements and individual petals.

While a bride may dream of a specific flower for her big day it’s always more practical and cost effective to try to use seasonal flowers.

This will ensure the blooms will be at their best and brightest on the day.

Spring weddings are warm and uplifting after the winter chill and there is nothing like a spring bouquet of Anemone, Sweet Pea, Ranunculus, Arum Lily or Stock. For a balmy Summer wedding try Dahlia, Peony, Calla Lilly or Orchids.

When you’ve chosen your bloom it’s impor tant to make sure that you talk to your florist so that you both know exactly what you

want. Make sure you are clear on the size and shape of your bouquets and that you communicate what you need for table arrangements and other floral pieces to decorate the reception space.

If you would like to speak to a florist that will work with you to create the best seasonal look for your wedding and reception then give Natalie and Cour tney a call. The girls can sit with you for a cuppa and a chat about designing the flowers for your wedding.

Precious Petals Floral & Tea House located in Vernon Street, Coffs Harbour see adver tisement page 87.

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kidsatweddings

The idea of having children at your wedding can terrify any bride.

They are unpredictable and without supervision can run amok.

But with a little careful consideration it doesn’t have to mean chaos and crying.

With visions of interruptions, tears and tantrums whirling around in her head, it can be tempting for a bride to the ban children all together. But a wedding that welcomes little ones doesn’t have to be a potential nightmare. Instead, with a little planning and foresight, children of all ages can be enter tained and happy, leaving their parents to enjoy the night with you.

The Ceremony Including children in the proceedings can be a great way to keep them focused. While older kids can be given responsibility and will feel proud that they were invited to take part, younger ones can be unpredictable, so you’ll want to make sure they play an appropriate par t for their age.

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Here are some suggestions about how you can bring children into your day:

Older kids • Junior bridesmaid/groomsman – wears similar clothes to the other members of the bridal party and walks down the aisle as the others do, escorting younger children if need be.

• Reader – reads a message about love or marriage during the ceremony.

• Helper to younger kids – hangs out with them before the ceremony, takes them outside if they start to cry and generally keeps an eye on them.

Younger Kids • Flower girl – give them petals to scatter before you walk down the aisle or, if in a pair, get them to carry a sign with ‘here comes the bride’ on it.

• Escort to the Bride – if you have children with your par tner, there is no reason why they can’t walk you to your groom.

• Page boy/ring bearer – carries the rings down the aisle during the ceremony and elicits squeals of adoration from all of the guests.

• Usher – helps guests to their seats and passes out programs.

• Bouquet holder – holds the brides flowers during the ceremony.

The Reception Consider having a dedicated kids table. This way they are all together and can keep each other occupied. You may want to seat the parents close by if there is younger children included, but by having them all together you can ensure that they will be entertained. To keep them happy try: • A kids menu – children are notoriously picky eaters, so child-friendly food is a must!

and tears and label them so each child feels special.The younger ones in particular will be thrilled that there is a present just for them.

• Set the table to suit the kids – if the table looks more appealing than the adults’ area then they will tend to stay where the fun is. You can still stay within your theme. For example, a vintage wedding could include pinwheels or brown paper to draw on.

• Snacks – kids will be noisy if they are hungry so have snacks on the table when they come in and try to keep it healthy as sugar filled kids are even noisier. Don’t forget drinks too.

• Hiring a babysitter – a professional babysitter can watch over the children and manage mealtime with the little ones if necessary. You may need more than one if there are to be a lot of kids at your wedding. The babysitters themselves can advise you if they need more than sitter to be there.

• Activities – crayons, pencils and paper on the tables will keep them occupied until the meals arrive. Consider games for the older children but nothing noisy, messy or with moving pieces. Make sure each child has their own activity as sharing can lead to arguments

• Entertainment – if your budget and venue allows, consider hiring some children’s enter tainment like face painters or storytellers.

You may even want to consider setting up a television area with cushions and movies that can later be turned into a nap area.

• Appropriate eating utensils – cups with lids to stop spills and age appropriate cutlery for the little ones.

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Shannon & Mitch THE MEETING Mitch and I met back in 2005. I had been invited to a dinner party and told to bring a date. I didn’t know of anyone to ask, so called my brother and asked him if I could have the number of one of his single friends. He thought I would get on well with his mate Tutty. We’ve been together ever since!

THE PROPOSAL Mitch woke me one morning to a beautiful cooked breakfast in bed (complete with love hear t shaped eggs).

He got our staffy Zephyr to jump up onto the

bed, and in the ensuing argument about having a dir ty dog on the bed I failed to see the ring tied to his collar with a ribbon.

Mitch had to point out that Zephyr had something special and to look for it while he got down on one knee and asked me to marry him. After saying yes, I got to untie my ring and put it on. It was such a sweet effort from a man who is very unromantic.

Bride and Groom: Shannon Tierney & Mitchell Tutt Wedding Ceremony: Hungry Head Headland, Urunga Reception: Valla Hall, Valla Photos: Mike and Amy Photography

THE WEDDING DAY Our wedding day was beautiful from the beginning to end. I went home to pick up our son Harper, who had spent the night with Mitch, North Coast WEDDINGS

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just the two boys together. Whilst Mitch’s Mum and sister went out to the hall to put out the flowers I had bought from the markets, my Mum and I went back up to the Sacred Mountain Retreat where I was staying and got ready.

Mitch went for a swim at the beach then went to the headland to set up the chairs and decorations.

After that he went home to get ready. Both my parents walked me down the aisle, which was very special.

The ceremony was perfect, with the sun shining, the sound of the ocean and lots of love up there on the headland.

Afterwards, we had photos with all our friends and family, then Mitch and I headed down to the beach for photos of just the two of us.

I changed into a beautiful floral dress for the reception so I was more comfortable and relaxed and enjoyed the night.

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THE THEME Mitch wanted a beachy, casual style and I wanted something country with a bit of elegance so even though they sound completely different I think we did a great job of combining the two!

I had started off with a vintage style in mind, so things like the invitations, my dress, the flowers, and some old jars I had been collecting for the flowers at the reception had a bit of a vintage feel.

THE RECEPTION We had a sit down dinner of a spit roast and salads, with our good friends Brian & Sam Guest from Valla Beach Butchery providing the meat.

To make it as casual as possible we didn’t have a seating plan, so everyone could sit where they liked.

We even had tables set up on the verandah so it wasn’t crowed. Lots of our guests had children so it was easy for them not to have to sit inside and be formal. Mitch’s Mum and

Nan had made tar ts and slices, which everyone had for desser t. We also had a wedding cake, made by my sister-in-law Stacy. After dinner we cleared away some tables and chairs so we could dance in the hall. We provided beer and wine, which we kept in a hired cool room out the back. Mitch and I had lived in Margaret River, Western Australia, for a couple of years, which we absolutely loved. Its’ well known for it’s amazing wine so, without being able to get married over there, I decided to bring a bit of Margaret River to our wedding by ordering all my wine from there online.

The hall was decorated with roses. There were candles on the tables inside and fairy lights on the verandah.

THE FLOWERS I chose roses for the bouquet and to decorate the ceremony & hall. They are elegant yet also simple and I could buy them cheaply at the Thursday markets in Coffs Harbour. I decided

to get my bouquet professionally made by Fran at Lotus Floral Studio in Woolgoolga, as I knew I would want them to look extra special for the photos.

I asked for a vintage feel and chose tea rose, soft yellows, creams, mauve and soft pale pinks.

Fran also filled the bouquet with silvery green foliage, because I didn’t want that perfect ball look.

THE DRESS When we first star ted planning our wedding, I drew a picture of my dream dress then went looking for someone to make it. It was ivory lace, fitted with a slight flair at the bottom and buttons down the back. When Melanie looked at my drawing, she showed me the Wendy Makin brochure.

There was a dress in there that was so close to my drawing that I ordered it. The only difference was the one in the picture had a train. I asked Melanie to cut it off as I really didn’t want the

sweeping train look, but she flatly refused! I’m glad she did, as looking back at our photos the dress looks amazing as is.

MEMORABLE MOMENT Mitch’s favourite moment was when I walked down the aisle and into the clearing on the headland. He said that I looked so beautiful and happy. My most memorable moment was the huge cheer from the crowd when the celebrant announced us as husband and wife.

It puts a smile on my face when I think of that.

Also, later in the evening, dancing with Mitch, when I found out that he can dance like Patrick Swayze in Dir ty Dancing which was a big surprise (he still remembered his moves from his childhood ballroom dancing!).

THE SUPPLIERS FLOWERS: Lotus Floral Studio Website: www.lotusfloralstudio.com.au DRESS: Melanie Jayne Website: www.melaniejayne.com.au CELEBRANT/ MINISTER: Catherine Campbell Website: www.catherinecampbell.net RECEPTION: Valla Hall WEBSITE: www.nambucca.nsw.gov.au PHOTOGRAPHER: Mike & Amy Website: www.mikeandamy.com.au MAKE-UP & HAIR: Kelli-T Website: www.kelli-tbrides.com.au JEWELLER: Michael Hill Jewellers Website: www.michaelhill.com SUITS: Alfani (Macy’s) Website: www.shopstyle.com.au WEDDING NIGHT ACCOMMODATION: Sacred Mountain Retreat Website: www.sacredmountain.com.au

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real north coast weddings

Rural Love The scents of eucalyptus, cut grass and roses.

Timber, glass and hessian. Comfortable elegance as the sun dips and the lanterns can be lit.

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Rural styling has familiar charm, and a generosity of hospitality.

Shabby chic pieces add an elegant touch.

Meet the team that made this happen on page 109

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Breakfree Annuka Beach Resort

Memories of your wedding day and honeymoon are meant to last forever, which is why both these special events in your life should be picture perfect.

BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort is located on absolute beachfront and situated amongst 15 acres of sub tropical gardens. Choose from a gorgeous beach backdrop with a ceremony on the “Beachside Lawns” or, if you prefer the sand between your toes, you can say “I Do” on Diggers Beach.

The resor t also boasts a beautiful Cedar Chapel set amongst lush tropical surrounds.

With a quaint feel and simple beach charm the resor t chapel is an ideal setting for a more traditional ceremony, vintage inspired wedding or the perfect option in the case of wet weather. A scenic pathway leading to the chapel cour tyard creates the oppor tunity for unforgettable photos of the bride’s arrival, while the cour tyard itself can be used for family photos after your ceremony or as a ceremony venue itself.

To truly capture the tranquillity and beauty of your special day, the grounds offer superb locations for your wedding photographs. Each reflects the essence of romance, and all are close at hand.

The range of choices available at BreakFree

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Aanuka Beach Resort are one of the reasons that wedding ceremonies are so popular here.

But it’s not just about the ceremony itself.

Tailoring a memorable reception is also at the top of the list for BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resor t, and there are four venues to select from.

Three boast magnificent views to Diggers Beach and can cater for intimate gatherings under the stars with as few as 25 guests, or for bigger weddings, 220 guests can celebrate with a cocktail style reception.

Don’t stress about the details either, BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resor t offers specialist wedding coordinators and a list of suppliers who come highly recommended for their quality service and products. Ranging from wedding cakes and flowers to photography all your needs can be looked after in-house.

When you book your wedding reception with BreakFree Aanuka Beach resort you will receive a beautifully appointed, Paradise Spa Bure, complimentary on your wedding night, including breakfast for two. Your wedding guests will also be offered a 20% discount when booking their

accommodation direct with Aanuka.

Accommodation ranges from simple and comfor table Studio rooms, to spacious and modern four bedroom villas. If your guests are travelling from afar or simply want to stay the night, there is accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets.

As for honeymooners, so many special moments are to be found when walking hand in hand through the resor t’s 15 acres of subtropical gardens, strolling on the adjacent beachfront or sharing a romantic meal at the resor t cafe, restaurant and bar.

Relax or find your own adventure with the many resort facilities, including five swimming pools, a cave spa and water slide, three tennis cour ts, beach volleyball and mini putt putt golf.

You can also head out for a day trip to see the sights of the surrounding township and coastline.

For more information or to arrange a site inspection call 02 6652 7555 or visit www. breakfree.com.au.

Vintage style or romantic beachside The perfect floral arrangements to suit

Marilyn & Ashley from Touchwood Flowers discuss all things floral for your wedding.

What flowers are available every season of the year?

Our selection has changed a lot over the years with so many flowers being control grown and us being able to source them out of their normal growing season. For example roses, lilies, gerberas, some orchids, even tulips are available for most of the year.

What kinds of flowers would suit the popular vintage theme or a romantic beachside wedding?

Vintage style weddings have become very popular and suit hand tied bouquets of mixed David Austen Roses, Spray Roses, Freesias, Tulips and Lisianthus with lovely foliages such as Dusty Miller or Little Gem Magnolia with the addition of berries and Dodda Vine.

Often the look carries through to the reception with the use of willow and twigs with an eclectic mix to match the bouquets.

A beachside wedding should be a simple

With the ever changing world of technology, we will quite often organise a complete wedding via email with the bride selecting her bouquets on our website wedding gallery. In many cases, not meeting her until the week of her actual wedding!!

TOP 5 TIPS in selecting your flowers.

yet elegant affair – rolled up pants, bare feet and beautiful flowers. We will quite often use Phalaenopsis Orchids or Singapore Orchids with come in a variety of colours. Used with lovely brightly coloured tropical foliage they look divine.

Something really special and elegantly simple is beautifully perfumed fresh Frangipani bouquets.

How do I organise my flowers if I live overseas and am getting married in Port Macquarie?

1. Order and pay a deposit early. Good Florists get booked out quickly.

2. DON’T SKIMP ON COST!!! Your bouquet will be a major part of all your wedding photo 3. Collect ideas of what you would love to have as your bouquet – during your consultation with your florist don’t be afraid to express your ideas, ask questions and trust their advice.

4. Make sure your florist has a lot of photo albums of completed weddings and testimonials from happy brides.

5. Relax and enjoy your wedding flowers consultation....It should be fun!!

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Garden roses add a splash of delicate colour – perfect for autumn weddings roses Romantic, sophisticated, vintage or modern.

The rose offers a heady bouquet to suit any style.

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spring and summer Flowers Agapanthus • Lilies Celosia • Cornflower Sunflower • Sweet pea Roses • Lilac • Stock Daisy • Dahlia Peony rose English lavender Frangipani Flannel flower Gardenia

button holes Bring back old world charm and sophistication with these vintage rose button holes. Elegant and chic they add an easy touch of glamour to any grooms style.

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1. Reflectionz Photography 2. David Moore Photography 3. Little Glimpses Photography 4. Mike & Amy Photography 5. Precious Petals 6. Little Glimpses Photography 7, 8 & 9 David Moore Photography

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Take a step back in time to mix gorgeous blooms, netting or lace for a glamorous, otherworldly head piece.

With a touch of vintage chic about it, these styles are also thoroughly modern. This is definitely a look to consider.

These gorgeous designs are from Lavish Floral Design Photos: The Chubby Fashionista www.thechubbyfashionista.com.

8 6. Lavish Floral Design 7 & 9 Amy & Mike Photographers 8. David Moore Photography

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A lavish occasion One of the most important aspects of a wedding for the couple, is having an individual touch that signifies some aspect of the bride and groom’s personality. For this reason, Lavish Floral Design is more than just a florist. It is the go-to wedding destination. Lavish knows the importance of the feeling of walking into the reception for the first time, the significance of taking the guests breath away when you walk down the aisle with the perfect bouquet, and the comfort you have in knowing your wedding styling is in the hands of a professional.

Jess Connor, owner of Lavish Floral Design, based in Northern NSW, has been in the industry for over ten years. From weddings with unlimited budgets in Hayman Island to smaller more intimate event styling, she has the experience as well as creative flair to style beautiful, personalised weddings that are on trend.

Jess admits that she is pretty lucky in her line of work, experiencing amazing moments in people’s lives, making things beautiful and living in one of the most desired wedding regions in the

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country. “I love the moment when the bride lays eyes on the bouquets for the first time,” says Jess . “After months of planning I am usually just as excited as the bride about the day.”

Of late, her work has been recognized through a series of awards including People’s Choice and Best Retail at the Lismore Business Excellence Awards. She has also received awards for the spectacular window displays she creates for her shop based in Lismore.

Lavish Floral Design, services weddings all through Northern NSW and South East QLD, including the Gold Coast, Tweed Heads, Byron Bay and Lismore through to Casino. She said her style is definitely influenced by the region.

“People getting married here love the DIY, vintage wedding style, which is something I specialise in with my signature Forever Bouquets and vintage hire decor,” Jess said. “I provide a service which is about stepping away from the cookie-cutter bride and making it all your own.

The possibilities are endless!”

Right now, the fashion is mostly an ‘anything

goes’ attitude and the team at Lavish are constantly researching the latest trends for weddings. While providing clients with the latest looks, the team are also able to create a wedding style to suit any bride, from traditional to minimalist modern, from earthy to beachy, and the most feminine princess! “We at Lavish love a challenge and love working with every couple to really see the theme they are dreaming of come to life,” says Jess. “The couple and their love are the most imporant elements of the day, the food and drinks are what keep the guests happy, but the look and feel of the day is what everyone remembers for a lifetime!”

Vintage, Ruffles and Ombre A fun and inspiring guide to the latest cake trends by Charlotte Wild

A wedding cake is one of our enduring traditions.

The cake makes a gorgeous focal centrepiece for decorations at your wedding and of course it is such a sweet and delicious way to end the day.

Each year there are new cake trends to get excited about and some of these trends appear to be here to stay.

The Colour Wheel As well as the classic wedding white and ivory, there’s taupe, latte and oyster tones to consider. Plenty of alluring pastel shades from peach, lavender and dusky pink to mink and tiffany blue are also getting a run for their money this season.

The vintage trend has brought some entrancing combinations into the limelight. Mint, which was a very popular colour back in the 1940’s & 50’s, matched along side lemon yellow

or salmon pink creates a light, fresh, summery palette.

Nicole Slater of Sweet Love Cake Couture in Coffs Harbour agrees: “Soft pastels par tnered with white and/or ivory never really go out of vogue for weddings and work perfectly to compliment the vintage style. Mint is the ‘it’ colour of the season … largely due to the increasing trend for grandma’s era of mint homewares and personal effects. Teamed with ivory, salmon and highlights of gold, this makes a stunning combination”.

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Not so sombre Ombre From the French meaning “shaded”.The gradual color change from pale to deeper colour on both the inside cake and outside icing layers has become a much sought after style, blending so well with the current interest in vintage and shabby chic.

For example peach, coral and dusky pink work well graduating slowly to ivory or white.

“It is a huge trend right now which adds a chic, romantic and whimsical edge not only to cakes but also to dresses, decor, flowers or stationery,” comments stylist Elissa Harris of Fresh Honey Weddings in Byron Bay. Brides are ordering the cake colour in ascending layers from pale lemon to deepest canary yellow, and palest blush to darkest fuchsia.

Vavoom Vintage In hot demand as part of the vintage cake look is lace, including: sugar lace applique; gold dusted lace moulding on cakes; real vintage lace or sugar trims attached to cake as ribbon. It’s a case of eat your wedding cake -- and wear it, too. Cloak your confection in designs that mimic the look of vintage lace, be it your grandmother’s heirloom lace or your favorite op-shop find, for a cake that’s oh so pretty (and anything but old-fashioned).

Along with vintage colours and styling, more diverse cake flavours are coming into focus. The humble sponge cake is gaining favour alongside the mudcakes that have been the darlings for so long. Among present clients passionfruit & vanilla cake and hummingbird cake are popular.

Sponge is the perfect cake for “bare” uniced cakes layered with buttercream or ganache, dusted with icing sugar and presented with fresh flowers or berries on crystal, silver, ceramic or milk glass cakestands. Great for those who prefer less icing and a more natural look, naked cakes don’t have to be boring just because they’re bare. They are perfect for rustic and garden style weddings.

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Whimsical elements abound with rosette flowers, buttons, birds nests and birdcages, sugar gumleaves, gumnuts and stripes/spots all being requested by brides. Another popular vintage cake trend is edible floral prints. This works well as small bursts of colour rather than covering an entire cake.

Many regional cake suppliers now have a choice of vintage style footed cake stands and cake plates that can be hired for the day for your main cake display or as part of a dessert table. A rustic hewn log is now very popular on which to set the cake.

Romantic Ruffles Over the last year or two we’ve seen a rise in popularity of these romantic frills. Although time-consuming for the cakemaker, they ensure the wow factor and are gloriously girly. They can cover just one part of the cake and don’t have to be the entire decoration so that cakes can be kept within a budget.

On desser t tables they can be carried through from cupcakes and minicakes to the main cake. Mingling so well with softer styling like giant paper pompoms and round paper lanterns, they impar t a gorgeous ambience.

The ruffled cake look can tie in with “gorgeous dresses that boast glamorous ruffling details, ruffled tablecloths and runners, amazing

Present to Future “Brides are still loving the vintage vibe, but they are getting more discerning and wanting to mix it up a bit so that it reflects their style as a couple, and their story,” explains Elissa “This is fun and the results are always awesome”. Suppliers see the vintage trend continuing steadily with the elements maturing as people look for different ways to make their wedding unique.

“I see vintage expanding to include a bohemian, glamorous, whimsical and industrial edge which is exciting,” says Elissa.

“Wedding cake trends typically have a close relationship with what’s featuring on the bridal catwalk,” says Nicole, “and if that’s

any indication, vintage style is here to stay. The touch of lace featured on Kate’s royal wedding gown has sparked a resurgence of lace inspired finishes, either in the form of delicate moulds or intricate piping.

For an oh-so-beautiful effect, a gown featuring lace can be mirrored in the cake by a transfer of the design. And what better way could there be to complete the picture than with the addition of vintage blooms handcrafted exclusively for your cake?” In a nutshell, everything old is new again.

Lush & Large Blooms Whether real or crafted out of gumpaste these flowers are lush and large. Peonies, full blown roses, anemones, chrysanthemums and ranunculus in white or bright colours adorn one tier cakes or elaborate multitiered cakes.

One or two large sugar flowers add presence to the simplest of cakes.

The Style Search And what is the best way to go about selecting your cake? With so many helpful sites now available to inspire, you need only browse Pinterest or sites like www.weddingcakestyle.com to come up with a cake look that will tickle your fancy.

Take your wedding theming elements to the meeting with your cakemaker or email them your invitations or colour/style/dress ideas as this will help them to create the final design.

Suppliers contact details listed below: Let Them Eat Cake www.eatcake.net.au 0403 677 684 Sweet Love Cake Couture http://sweet-love.com.au 0429 586 659 Fresh Honey Weddings – Wedding Design, Styling & Hire 0411 204 390 http://freshhoneyweddings.com/

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try something daringly different from cheesecakes to a cheese wheel cake decorated with fruit or flowers

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cake toppers

Go for small ornate cakes with unique personal details like these cake toppers

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1. Sweet Intentions 2, 3, 5, 6, 9, 10, 11&12, Modern Cake Creations 4, 8 & 9 David Moore Photography 7. Mike & Amy Photographers

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Jewel in the crown at Yamba Yamba Shores Tavern is Yamba’s only true waterfront venue and having recently completed a multi-million dollar redevelopment is most cer tainly the jewel in Yamba’s crown.

We specialise in wedding receptions, offering a wide range of innovative menus and packages all customised to suit your individual requirements.

We boast two areas that are perfect for any wedding reception Shores Restaurant & The Clarence Deck.

Shores Restaurant offers a beautiful and intimate setting with a fully renovated modern area boasting a private bar and seating for up to 100 guests. It also has a fully integrated MP3 system & large overhead projector to play a slide show on your special day.

Our picturesque deck area overlooking the Clarence River is the perfect backdrop for any wedding reception. Arrive either by car or boat and come and experience the quality service and stunning views. Clarence Deck can seat up to 150 guests with plenty of room for a dance floor and band.

Since opening the doors in December 2010 the new Tavern has received glowing accolades from patrons and industry experts. In 2011 the Tavern won the Australian Hotels Association (NSW) Country Hotel of the Year and Shores Restaurant won Best Country Restaurant. The Bistro was awarded a “schooner” in the Sydney Morning Herald Good Pub Food Guide Awards

Come and see what everyone is talking about 2012. One of only four venues in the Nor thern Rivers to do so.

Heading up the kitchen is highly acclaimed international Head Chef, Nick Cassidy. Originally from Scotland, Nick honed his skills at the Waterside Inn in Bray on the River Thames in Berkshire, England, which was, and still is renowned for high quality food – and for its founders, the famous Roux brothers, Michael &

Alber t. Nick then spent time in kitchens around the world including India, Hong Kong, Japan and France with most having a heavy French influence.

Come and see what everyone is talking about, make your enquiry

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Vintage Chic

Romance is in the details of this quirky wedding style.

Thoroughly unique and ever so glamorous, guests will never tire of exploring their setting.

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Gorgeous pastels, textural elements and humour all combine to make this a style to make your very own. Add personal details for that extra charm.

Meet the team that made this happen on page 109

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groom

Roger David New Black Bow Tie (left) Burgundy Bow Tie (below) www.rogerdavid.com.au

the

Rodger David Ceasar Navy Jacket Ceasar Navy Trouser Olle Sky Stripe Shir t Preppy Floral Tie, cream

Go Retro

The bow tie is back for the groom with an individual sense of style and charm.

Keep styling simple for a cool masculine look.

THOMAS SABO ‘Rebel at Heart’ Cufflinks $329

THOMAS SABO ‘Rebel at Heart’ Cufflinks $399

Rodger David Shark Jacket & Shark Pant, Purple Pinstripe Shirt, Harvard Frames, Black Bowtie & Piping Trilby

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THOMAS SABO ‘Rebel at Heart’ Watch - Chronograph $659 www.thomassabo.com

Ben Sherman Suit: $499.00 Shirt: $89.95 Tie: $69.95 Stockists: 02 8306 3338

THOMAS SABO ‘Rebel at Hear t’ pendant $258

THOMAS SABO ‘Rebel at Hear t’ ring $329

Dora specializes in premium men’s wedding rings.

Featured is a style with combinations of white and yellow gold. www.dora.com.au

If you want easy elegance for the man in your life, the narrow cut of a retro styled suit will add an extra shot of sophistication to any wedding party.

Roder David Suede Leather Half Toe Shoe, Black

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fashion

just

Panache ‘Evie’ Bridal corset, briefs and pantyhose www.panache-lingerie.com

Panache ‘Hazel’ balconnet bra and brief in charcoal

Panache ‘Tallulah’ bandeau bikini with high waisted pant in charcoal

Brides Desire ‘Jacqeline’ gown www.bridesdesire.com.au

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colours for maids Bold shades of fuschia and purple or softer metallics of blue, bronze and charcoal are just some of the choices for bridesmaids. left: Alfred Angelo style 7235 right: Alfred Angelo style 7241

get cheeky

Panache ‘Marcie’ balconnet bra and brief in red

Bold jewel colours, flirty fabrics and sexy styles are some of the design highlights in underwear this season. Whether you’re looking for elegance or fun you’ll feel beautiful all day.

Panache ‘Sophie’ maternity bra and brief

Panache ‘Porcelin Viva’ T-shit bra and brief in Ruby

Alfred Angelo style 7230 www.alfredangelo.com Panache ‘Stella’ bandeau bikini with classic pant

Alfred Angelo style 7423 www.alfredangelo.com

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jewellery

just

Oozing style and old world glamour, the new line of Samantha Wills wedding jewellery

Samanatha Wills French Lace silver earrings

Samanatha Wills Entance at Sunset earrings in silver

Samanatha Wills Eiffel by Night earrings in silver

Samanatha Wills Entrance at Sunset necklace in antique gold and silver

Georgini pearl drop earrings www.georgini.com.au

Samanatha Wills L’Amour Enreve necklace antique brass & silver

gift giving with Thomas Sabo Georgini Necklace: $119.00

Georgini Earrings: $259.00

Georgini Ring: $79.00

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Samanatha Wills Deco Dreams earrings

North Coast WEDDINGS

The new THOMAS SABO Sweet Diamonds range, featuring very delicate and beautifully crafted silver jewellery, adorned with real diamonds and framed by 14ct yellow gold, is a first in the history of the THOMAS SABO brand. www.thomassabo.com

A wedding at Opal Cove Resort 1

Absolute Beachfront Opal Cove can cater for all your ceremony, reception and accommodation needs in one beautiful location. Situated on Korora Bay in Coffs Harbour, Opal Cove Resort offers the authentic resort experience. We are regarded as the “complete resort” and our absolute beachfront location is perfect for your special day.

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Secondly, you will have a dedicated wedding coordinator. From the minute you make an enquiry your dedicated wedding coordinator will set out to make your day as special and memorable as possible. With the skills and knowledge of all the features and endless possibilities that Opal Cove has to offer, you can be confident your wedding is one of great value to us. From the preliminary enquiry through to the actual event, our wedding coordinator takes

There are five reasons to choose Opal Cove as your Wedding Venue. First of all, it is one-stop destination for all your wedding personal responsibility to ensure its success. We want to have exceeded your expectations and responded promptly and professionally to all your needs.

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Attention to detail and warm personal service is the key to creating a memorable event. Opal Cove Resort offers its wedding clients an unparalleled standard of personal service in contemporary surroundings.

A fabulous function room is the third reason to have your wedding at Opal Cove Resort. We boast one of the most beautiful reception venues in New South Wales in our Opals Room. It is fully equipped with its own DJ booth, full bar and tiled dance floor, and with natural lighting and 90 degree views of the Pacific Ocean it has perfect views.

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Location, location is the fourth reason to use Opal Cove for your wedding. Opal Cove’s grounds provide a magnificent backdrop with a huge variety of locations to take your wedding

photographs. The resort is situated in a beach side area surrounded by natural beauty, the perfect setting for your wedding. Capture the moment with a beachfront or garden ceremony with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean or the freshwater lagoon. Our beautiful Fig trees lining the driveway have proven to be a continually beautiful backdrop with endless photograph possibilities.

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Finally, the exclusivity of Opal Cove makes it an ideal wedding venue. We guarantee your wedding party the exclusive use of our facilities without the interruption or rush of having to share your day with another wedding party. This allows the bride and groom to choose which specific destinations they would like to use for their day without the risk of disappointment.

For a wedding venue then with fabulous views, excellent services, attention to details and exclusivity you can’t go past Opal Cove Resort, Coffs Harbour.

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Sheree & Duncan THE MEETING Although we lived in the same town for five years and worked for the same company, it wasn’t until one morning at a local café on the beach that Duncan and I locked eyes and struck up a conversation. We have been inseparable ever since and moved in together after 10 weeks. It really is true that “when you know, you know”.

THE PROPOSAL The proposal was a big surprise. We had gone away for the weekend. He took me to a beautiful restaurant on the water for dinner.

Toward the end of the evening he got down on one knee, read me poem he had written about us and asked me to be his wife.

Bride and Groom: Sheree Taylor & Duncan Mackenzie

THE WEDDING DAY

Wedding Ceremony & Reception: Villa Vivante, Coffs Harbour

As we got married at Villa Vivante, we stayed at the house for five nights, including three before the wedding. We had our siblings stay with us and more family and friends close by which we found very supportive. It was great to catch up and spend time together. I enjoyed a dinner with my family the night before while Duncan went out with his family and friends.

On the Friday night we stayed in two separate

Photos: David Moore Photography

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wings of the house. We implemented no-go zones so that we didn’t see each other from the Friday morning until I walked down the aisle on Saturday afternoon! On Saturday morning the girls came over and my sisters came into the main bedroom where we went into a relaxed lock down! I heard repor ts that Duncan was running around super excited all day. The girls and I enjoyed time together, prepping and listening to music. I walked down the aisle with my Dad. The moment that Duncan and I saw each other is indescribable and can only be experienced. We wrote the entire ceremony ourselves, and our Mum’s did readings as did a special friend. The weather was stunning and the backdrop was perfect. We had not only my Dad consent to the wedding but also had our guests signal their love and support. I felt so special – not only because I was ‘made up’ - but because I was Duncan’s bride.

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THE THEME We really just tried to make it personal and reflect us as a couple. Our bonbonnieres were Penguin Classic books. We chose three titles each that reflected us and our inspirations.

I wrapped these in a mixture of wrapping papers, tied them with a brown strip and made individual D&S stamped tags from recycled paper. Instead of table numbers we had the names of places we had traveled to and/or that meant a lot to us. We then added a description on the table of what that place meant to us or shared a memory.

THE RECEPTION We opted for a formal sit down dinner after canapés on the deck. We had a band play the entire night. We chose meals that we enjoyed and thought the guests would appreciate. We had six speeches, split before and after main course. For desser t we had a Cake Bombe Tier, topped with a Chocolate Cake and covered in chocolate-coated strawberries (including a

chocolate bride & groom). We served this with ice cream in retro ice cream cups. Duncan and I learned the moves to Dir ty Dancing’s ‘Time of my Life’ from another wedding on Youtube. We danced on the deck and finished the dance with a modified lift and fireworks in the background.

We then danced the night away, enjoyed the company and remembered to spend as much time together as possible.

THE FLOWERS Blue hydrangeas are a special flower to us both and were a perfect match to the bridesmaids dresses. They were tied in with antique pink roses, freesias and mini white roses.

My bridal bouquet was a three-colour teardrop and for the girls more of a posy. I loved them – they were absolutely perfect.

THE DRESS My dress had a sweetheart neckline, lace overlay and straps, fitted with a mermaid bottom. It was the first dress I tried on and I was by myself. I

tried on other dresses with my sister just to enjoy the experience and to be 100% sure.

THE BRIDESMAIDS & GROOMSMEN The Anna Campbell bridesmaids dress was the first and only dress that caught my eye. I loved the antique French blue and I like the option that the girls could choose from two styles and then also tie the dresses in different ways for their comfor t and body type.

The hand-made Swarovski crystal earrings

by Paula Hall Designs were my gift to the girls.

The boys hired their suits from Spurling which made it easy as they live all over the country and also across the UK. I like the classic look and they teamed their black suits with Anna Campbell ties that matched the girls’ dresses.

Duncan gave the boys Spitfire cufflinks, one of his inspirations.

MEMORABLE MOMENT It was a full moon the night we got married, which felt really special, as it wasn’t something

we planned for or realised would happen. We watched it grow over the days leading up to the wedding. On the night it was magnificent, shining across the sky and across the water.

Now every time there is full moon, it reminds me of our night.

THE HONEYMOON We went to Tokoriki Island, Fiji for five nights.

It was perfect. It was our first ‘relaxing holiday’ together and we loved just spending time with each other, swimming, snorkling, chatting about the wedding and life to come.

We also made sure we booked a child free resor t – there will hopefully be plenty of time for that in the future!

THE SUPPLIERS FLOWERS: Freelance Flowers Website: www.freelanceflowers.com.au DRESS: Anna Campbell Website: www.AnnaCampbell.com.au CELEBRANT/ MINISTER: Victor Rullis Phone: 0407 521 778 CEREMONY/RECEPTION: Villa Vivante Website: www.villavivante.com CATERING: Spare Chef Website: www.sparechef.com.au CAKE: Wicked Berries Website: www.wickedberries.com.au PRE-MARRIAGE COUNSELLING: Breath of Life Website: www.bolcounselling.com PHOTOGRAPHER: David Moore Photography Website: www.moorephotography.com.au MAKE-UP & HAIR: Lisa Bohringer (hair) and Gaye Hardcastle (make-up) Phone: 0431 387 036 & 0417 692 033 JEWELLER: Crown Diamond Jewellers Phone: 02 4227 6224 SUITS: Spurling Hire Website: www.spurling.com.au WEDDING NIGHT ACCOMMODATION: Villa Vivante Website: www.villavivante.com North Coast WEDDINGS

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Lois & Robert THE MEETING We met in Port Macquarie through my younger brother and other friends.We first noticed we really liked each other on a walk along Shelly Beach.

Bride & Groom: Lois & Rober t Wedding Ceremony: Por t Macquarie Reception: Wauchope Bonny Hills Surf Life Saving Club Photographer : Little Glimpses

reception. The backdrop was the beach and it was sparkling and so pretty. We had such a lovely night enjoying it with all our guests.

we had canapĂŠs served on the balcony of the reception venue, while the bridal party were having photos taken. For dessert we had a cake and lolly bar.

THE FLOWERS THE PROPOSAL Half way through an eight month deployment with the Australian Army, Robert was given leave for 10 days and came home. While he was away, he called my Dad, asking if he could marry me. On his last day at home Robert asked if we could go and watch the sunrise at the lighthouse. It was 5am and I was in my pyjamas, Robert was hugging me and suddenly he let go. I turned around to find him on his knee. I said yes then noticed the ring. It was from home - Northern Ireland. It was incredibly special, as Robert had gone to enormous effort to get me this ring. I completely love it.

THE WEDDING DAY My bridesmaids and I were all very relaxed as we were having our makeup and hair done. Some of my family had come from Northern Ireland for the wedding so we were all very happy to just be spending some time with each other. Just before heading off to the ceremony, all of my family came to where I was and got to see me in my dress. It was very special. My Dad is a celebrant and was actually marrying us so when he walked me down the aisle he immediately had to turn around and become the celebrant.This was very special to both Robert and I. After a beautiful ceremony, we went to the lighthouse to have our photos taken then off to the

The bouquets were roses with baby’s breath mixed in.The flower girl carried a big basket full of roses and wore a little head piece made of cherry blossoms.

At the ceremony we had cherry blossoms around the bamboo canopy. At the reception we had tealight candles hanging from the tortured willow stems and white Singapore orchids arranged in tall vases. We also had rose petals sprinkled over the tables.

THE DRESS

MEMORABLE MOMENT The most memorable moment for me was actually saying our vows. We were so excited to be saying them. It was such a perfect moment.

THE SUPPLIERS FLOWERS: Colleen Knox & Wedding perfection Website: weddingperfection.com.au DRESS: Brides Desire Website: www.bridesdeisre.com.au

The dress I chose was a Brides Desire gown. It was simple and glamorous and comfortable to wear on the day too. The gown has an intricately jewelled bodice and orchid flower. I wore a floor length veil with my dress, which I completely loved.

SUITS: Man to Man Website: www.mantoman.com.au

THE BRIDESMAIDS & GROOMSMEN

RECEPTION : Wauchope, Bonny Hills Surf Life Saving Club Website: www.wauchope-bonnyhills-slsc.org.au

The dresses were a latte colour (almost dusty pink), and the girls wore simple silver stud earrings. The groomsmen wore grey suits from Man to Man, with white shirts and latte coloured ties.

THE RECEPTION Our reception was a sit down dinner. It was such a relaxed atmosphere it made it a really enjoyably wedding for all our guests. We had speeches and dancing and lots of fun. Before the sit down meal

HAIR AND MAKE-UP: Jolin Shead (makeup) & Holly Elson (hair) Website: www.jolinstyle.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHER: Little Glimpses Website: www.littleglimpses.com.au WEDDING NIGHT ACCOMMODATION: Mercure Hotel Website: www.mercure.com/gb/australia

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real bride’s tips

Just go with what you want, relax because it is only one day and enjoy your it with all of your friends family!

My advice is so cliché, but simple enjoy your day as it will fly by

ALWAYS take an opportunity to find a moment with your new husband to take it all in.

Katie

Lois

Renee

Delegate! People really want to help out, so if anyone offers, give them something to do.

Enjoy every moment of your day! Relax, breathe and smile and everyone will be smiling with you.

You don’t need to spend a fortune to throw a great party. Make it personal, these are the things people will be talking about.

Shannon

Tania

Telena

North Coast

weddings

If you would like to promote your business in the next issue of Nor th Coast Weddings magazine due for publication in March 2013 please contact Concept Media for your ad kit or follow us on facebook.

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02 6651 1984 nthcoastwedding@optusnet.com.au

Making your wedding a dream Recently winning ‘Best Club Function Venue’ at the Clubs NSW 2012 Awards for Excellence, as well as taking home a silver medal at the Dilmah Real High Tea Professional Challenge, C.ex Coffs Harbour is an impressive wedding reception venue with rooms and catering options to suit all tastes and budgets.

There is a space to suit any size wedding from the small and intimate to a 700 guest extravaganza!

As par t of the wedding package menus on offer you can choose from buffet and sit down options, even High Tea Weddings in Rendezvous.

If you prefer a more casual meal option, or

perhaps wish to cater for your guests before the main reception they can organise that too.

And just to make it truly a one-stop-shop, the on-site pastry chef can create a heavenly cake to suit your theme and excite your tastebuds!

Your Event Coordinator will take you through all of your options and is happy to make recommendations for you based on your reception size, preferred style and budget.

From your first contact, you will have your own Event Coordinator who will be with you every step of the way.

And on your wedding day, their exper t Functions Supervisors and our well trained and

professional staff are there to ensure your day runs exactly as you planned.

Most importantly to C.ex Coffs Harbour is that your special day is a truly memorable occasion.

Contact the functions team, they would love the oppor tunity to work with you to make your wedding the event of your dreams!

C.ex Coffs Harbour can be found on Vernon Street in the City Centre. Give them a call, jump online (cex.com.au) or send them an email (functions@cex.com.au).

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your

hair ghd Pink Cherry Blossom styler RRP $289 ($20 from each sale goes towards National Breast Cancer Foundation) www.ghd.com

ghd Oval Dressing Brush RRP $34

ghd air RRP $199 – ghd’s first ever professional hair dryer

Hair

ghd Curl Hold Spray RRP $22

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2 1 & 3 Narina Car ter Creations 2. Amber Toms

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Handcrafted chiffon, satin and organza flower and feather hair piece in ivory. Embellished with faux pearls and seed beeds with french lace netting accents. www.percyhandmade.etsy.com

minimal styling is making a comeback for brides with discrete accessories and no fuss, your natural beauty gets a chance to shine

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All eyes on you good choice for your wedding hair and makeup, and experts agree. Judged the winner of Australia’s 2012 Next Generation Stylists, its Lauren’s energy and enthusiasm for her profession that keeps Living Doll fresh and so respected in the industry. “Fashion is always changing and it’s an industry that I’m passionate about,” she says.

Lauren has taken her team beyond the walls of her salon to work on fashion shows and magazine photo shoots.This gives her an edge when it comes to knowing what works and what doesn’t for long lasting makeup that will look great on film. “Photo quality makeup is essential if you want to look your best in your photos,” she explains. “This simply can’t be achieved unless you use high quality products and the right technique”.

While Lauren and her team take their work seriously, using Living Doll for your hair and makeup is also about being pampered. By coming to the Coffs Harbour salon, you can enjoy stylish, comfortable surrounds with a relaxing latte and a giggle. Or, break out the bubbly and enjoy a drink with your girlfriends before the ceremony. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget and it is a lovely,

stress free way to begin preparations for your big day.

Whether the look you long for is natural, glamorous, classic or contemporary, Living Doll will help you discover your perfect wedding day style. “When a bride feels confident,” says Lauren, “her true beauty shines through: a bride should always feel radiant and gorgeous on her wedding day”.

To meet with the team and discuss your wedding day go to www.livingdollcreations.com or call 02 6699 2122.

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Photos: Ian Simpson Photography

Because you are the centre of attention on your wedding day your hair and makeup are constantly on show. As such it’s important that you look great from the start of the ceremony right through to the end of the night. To avoid the constant maintenance that some makeup requires, the quality of the products you use need to be high and of a professional standard, especially if you want your photos to look great too.

While most of us put on makeup everyday, it’s important that you find a professional to help you with your look on your wedding day. Finding a salon that has the skill and knowledge of current trends can mean a lengthy, costly period of trial and error but with good communication and talented professionals you can get the look you want at a fair price. Happily, there is a salon that can offer all that and more based right here on the North Coast,.

The team at Living Doll Premier Stylists has a wealth of experience creating beautiful bridal hairstyles and makeup for brides. Owner, Lauren Vesty, is keen to point out that at Living Doll wedding makeup isn’t one size fits all: “Each bride is unique”, she says. “We like to enhance every woman’s best features while keeping them looking natural”.

It’s capturing this beauty that makes Living Doll a

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beauty

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just

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OPI Nail lacquer

Napoleon Perdis fab new concealer - The One $36. www.napoleonperdis.com.au

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pastel hues for nails are big this season. Match them up with your maids gowns forperfect styling.

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Add a touch of colour with Napoleon Perdis Blush Patrol $60 SunFX’s Summer’s Secret builds, extends and hydrates www.sunfx.com.au

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glamour

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Napoleon Perdis Luminous Lip Veil in The Naked Truth $27

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Narina Carter Creations

simply stunning

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Napoleon Perdis new smoky eye palette $55

Glamour makeup is enjoying a revival as accessories become less a focus. Try smokey eyes and lush dark lips for killer impact.

Beautiful photographs for life . . .

Choosing a wedding photographer can be one of the toughest choices you need to make in regards to your wedding.The photographs you receive will be one of the most tangible memories you will have and should reflect not only the look of the day but the feel of it as well. Hopefully, they will be something you want to share with your children and grandchildren, something you will proud and touched to revisit often. So how do you ensure you choose the right photographer?

Many times over, price seems to be the deciding factor in whether or not the photographer is right for you, but this is not always the best issue to base your decision on.Your wedding memories will be captured through the eyes, heart and talent of your wedding photographer… so remember the old adage, “You get what you pay for”.

To make sure a particular photographer is going to be a good fit with you, it is important to make sure you are getting someone with experience, someone who can handle anything that is thrown at them on the day. No two weddings are the same, so your photographer needs to be confident

enough not to falter if something unexpected happens. You need to be sure that that they will be able to capture every moment.

Weddings are so fast paced it is not always possible to restate something if they miss a moment.

You also need to be clear about what products the photographer offers. Do they offer professional quality albums, prints on archival papers, canvases?

It’s not always easy to judge a photographer’s work on a website or Facebook, so be sure to go to their studio and view their albums and products, so you can see the finished product you’ll be receiving.

This will also give you an idea about whether their style is going to work with yours. Not all photographers work is the same. Many will have different processing styles and different shooting styles. So view as much of their work as possible to see how you feel about their style. Make sure you communicate well: ask questions, make sure you both understand what

it is that you want and expect.

Finally, a wedding is one of the most intimate things you will ever go through in life, so intimacy can be an important factor in choosing your photographer. You need to ask yourself if you feel comfortable with them and happy at the idea of having them with you all day in your intimate space. It is important that their personality gel with yours so you feel confident and relaxed with what is going to happen and with making requests as the day unfolds.

And lastly, have fun with your photographer!

When you’ve picked the right one, it will be a rewarding and enjoyable experience for everyone. www.candicecampbellphotography.com

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the marketplace

BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort Located at Coffs Harbour in New South Wales, BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort is positioned on absolute beachfront and offers a peaceful, romantic, secluded and unique setting - everything your wedding day should be.

Coffs Harbour 02 6652 7555 www.breakfreeaanukabeachresort.com.au

emma rhoades photography Capturing heartfelt moments you will relive and cherish forever.

Emma is a 2012 AIPP accredited professional photographer, travelling the Mid North Coast, spending her time amongst gorgeous brides and their loved ones. Call today.

NSW Registry of Births Deaths & marriages Order a Commemorative Marriage Certificate package from NSW Registry of Births, Deaths & Marriages.The standard certificate is included and essential if you want to change your name after marriage.

bonville golf resort Let the Coffs Coast’s most awarded Wedding venue, Bonville Golf Resort create an Unforgettable, Romantic and Unique wedding day for you and your loved ones.

Bonville 02 6653 4002 www.bonvillegolf.com.au

figtree pictures

in a snap photo booth

Jade Kohl

Boutique photography service following love and beautiful weddings.

A photo booth is part entertainment, part photographer, part bonbonniere.... and full of fun! Guarantee a wedding to remember by having an In A Snap Photo Booth at your reception.

jade kohl. simply beautiful dresses. custom design from picture or sketch. peruse the ready-to-wear collection. bride. guys. maids. events. consultations by appointment.

LIKE us on facebook.

Coffs Coast 0430 535 487 www.emmarhoades.com

long black limo

Lovebirds Weddings

Mihaja Photography

Gold Coast to Coffs Harbour Weddings –formals-hens party’s

Lovebird Weddings offers a boutique wedding planning and styling service. Every wedding is created with love, care and attention. We provide brides with custom-made colour and design palettes, and inspirational mood boards – helping to bring your wedding vision to life.

My name is Caroline and I love taking photos of people like you.

Yes you! People like you who are in love and are getting married.

My wedding photography style has been described as spontaneous, fun, story-telling like but most of all, romantic.

Northern NSW 07 5471 2106 www.lovebirdweddings.com.au

Casuarina 0428 214 207 www.mihajaphotography.com.au

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Beautiful photography and fun and quirky wedding films.

Our style is romantic, fun, natural and creative, and comprises a mixture of artistic portraiture and photojournalism to capture your day in a unique and exciting way.

Coffs Harbour 0404 866 676 www.chasingsummerphoto.com hello@chasingsummerphoto.com

Sydney 1300 655 236 www.bdm.nsw.gov.au

Tweed Coast, Byron Bay Ballina, Lismore 07 5599 2880 hello@figtreepictures.com www.facebook.com/figtreepictures www.figtreepictures.com

Gold Coast to Coffs Harbour 0413 654 000 info@longblacklimo.com.au www.longblacklimo.com.au

Chasing Summer Photography

Mid North Coast 0402 377 865 www.inasnapphotobooth.com.au info@inasnapphotobooth.com.au

Coffs Harbour 0431 586 503 jadekohl@gmail.com

one love wedding ceremonies Servicing Byron Bay & surroundings, One Love Wedding Ceremonies offers you unique, modern ceremony styling.

We can create your dream ceremony at your chosen location.

Northern NSW 0402 402 198 info@oneloveweddings.com.au www.oneloveweddings.com.au

the

Restaurant at

Cassegrain Winery The Restaurant at cassegrain winery Come for a wonderful experience! Changing of the season’s menu celebrations, twilight wine and cheese, live entertainment Saturdays and Sundays, picnics by the pond, scrumptious food and the perfect wine from the cellar door.

Port Macquarie 02 6582 8320 / 0407 855 231

Quick Reference Guide Beauty Hair and Pampering

Florists

Venues and Accommodation

FINELINES BEAUTY SALON Coffs Harbour 02 6651 5559

LAVISH FLORAL DESIGN Lismore 02 6622 6430

JANE SMITH HAIR AND DESIGN Byron Bay 02 6684 7756 0437 965 968

PRECIOUS PETALS Coffs Harbour 02 6652 7557

ABSOLUTE BEACHFRONT OPAL COVE RESORT Coffs Harbour 02 6651 0527

LA FLEUR D’ALYSE COSMETIC LASER AND MEDISPA Coffs Harbour 02 6652 9433 LIVING DOLL PREMIER STYLISTS Coffs Harbour 02 6699 2122 MICKEELA TONEYCLIFF Coffs Harbour NARINA CARTER CREATIONS Bellingen 0421 968 809 Cakes and Caterers FIASCO CATERING Coffs Harbour 02 6652 2637

Unique Estates Unique Estates is a boutique agency specialising in beautiful, luxuriously appointed and stylish properties for weddings and holidays. If you are looking for something truly special, for your wedding or honeymoon, then you must see what is on offer from us.

Byron Bay 1300 911 720 www.uniqueestates.com.au

IN A SNAP PHOTO BOOTH Coffs Harbour 0421 649 818

CANDICE CAMPBELL PHOTOGRAPHY Telearah 0402 043 891

UNIQUE ESTATES Byron Bay 1300 911 720

DAVID MOORE PHOTOGRAPHY Coffs Harbour 0408 404 760

Car Hire

EMMA RHOADES PHOTOGRAPHY Coffs Harbour 0430 535 487

JADE KOHL Coffs Harbour 0431 586 503 RSVP BRIDAL Coffs Harbour 02 6652 7000

Styling shoot dream teams: Natural Beauty styling shoot p24-25 Photography - Figtree Pictures Styling - Little Gray Station Venue - Mavis’ Kitchen Hair and Makeup - Wedding Hair by Leah Dress - Scarlett’s Wardrobe Desserts - Brown Betty’s Bakery Flowers and hair piece - Beautiflora Stationery - Paper Dolls A Rustic Romance p 52-53 Thank you to Jenna and Willem who allowed us to feature their wedding and to Caroline from Mihaja Photography for the beautiful photos.

THE RESTAURANT AT CASSEGRAIN Port Macquarie 02 6582 8320

Photography

NORELLE’S CAKES Coffs Harbour 0427 256 867

BELLA ROSE COLLECTIONS Port Macquarie 02 6584 3765

C.EX COFFS HARBOUR Coffs Harbour 02 6652 3888

NSW REGISTRY OF BIRTHS, DEATHS AND MARRIAGES Sydney 02 9035 6563

THE LARDER Byron Bay 02 6680 8644

Fashion

BREAKFREE AANUKA BEACH RESORT Coffs Harbour 02 6650 2541

General

CHASING SUMMER PHOTOGRAPHY Coffs Harbour 02 6652 4924

LONG BLACK LIMO Byron Bay 02 6620 9200 / 0413 654 000

BONVILLE INTERNATIONAL GOLF RESORT Coffs Harbour 02 6653 4002

TOUCHWOOD FLOWERS Port Macquarie 02 6583 2657

YAMBA GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB Yamba 02 6646 2104 YAMBA SHORES TAVERN Yamba 02 6646 1888 Wedding Styling and Decorating BYRON BAY EVENTS WITH PANACHE Byron Bay 0427 171 087

FIGTREE PICTURES Northern NSW 07 5599 2880

BYRON BAY WEDDING AND PARTY HIRE Byron Bay 02 6685 5483

MIHAJA PHOTOGRAPHY Casuarina 0428 214 207 MIKE AND AMY PHOTOGRAPHERS Coffs Harbour 0435 814 275 REFLECTIONZ PHOTOGRAPHY Laurieton 0423 615 457

LOVEBIRD WEDDINGS Servicing northern NSW 07 5471 2106 OCCASIONS2IMPRESS Servicing North Coast 0422 958 414 ONE LOVE WEDDINGS Northern NSW 0402 402 198

The following are courtesy of portmacquarieweddings.com An Exotic Touch styling shoot p67-68 Photographer: Mel Lawrence Photography Make Up: Le Rouge Make-up Artistry, Hair Peeka-Bu Hair, Port Macquarie Event Manager: The Social Butterfly Event Management Styling: Addicted To Pretty Event Styling Via Le Rouge Make-up Artistry Dresses: Bella Rose Collections, Dress by Ella Bridal no.5618, Accessories: Madd Lola Flowers: Touchwood Flowers Models: Emma O’Brien (Bride), Kristy Rawson and Danielle Simpson. a taste of the exotic, Venue: Tea and Treasures, Port Macquarie Rural Love styling shoot p76-77 Photography: Mel Lawrence Photography Coordination & Styling - The Social Butterfly Event Management Co.

Location: Ricardoes Tomatoes & Strawberries Wedding Favours & Strawberries: Ricardoes Tomatoes & Strawberries Cakes: Bitter Sweet Cafe Patisserie, 2/48 Watonga Street, Port Macquarie Flowes: Glasshouse Flowers Props: The Department Store Chalk Boards: Wedding Perfections Alcohol: Cellarbrations 3/42 - 44 Watonga St,, Port Macquarie (02) 6582 0658 Vintage Chic styling shoot p88-89 Photograhy: Mel Lawrence Photography Cakes: The Cake Establishment Flowers: Touchwood Flowers Props: A Little Antique, Lord Street Port Macquarie (no website or fb) Location: Cassegrains Winery Styling & Coordination: The Social Butterfly Event Management Co.

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readers survey The team at Nor th Coast Weddings value your feedback and would love you to send us your completed survey so we may continue to improve the magazine. Plus, you have the opportunity to WIN a box of goodies from SunFx. What’s not to love about that? Just post your entries to PO Box 2071, Coffs Harbour NSW, 2450. Don’t miss out! Entries close 30 September 2012

1. How did you come across NCW? Newsagent Friend/Family Other _____________________________ 2. What appealed to you about NCW and made you want to buy it?

Cover Title Content Par ticular ar ticle/section 3. How helpful have you found the magazine?

Very Helpful Helpful Not helpful 4. On average, how often do you refer to NCW? Every day Every week Every month Not much 5. Who else has looked through your copy of NCW? Fiancé Mother Father Mother-in-law Bridesmaid Sister/friend Other ____________________________ 6. Would you recommend NCW to others planning a wedding?

Yes No Why ______________________________ __________________________________ 7. What did you like about NCW? __________________________________ __________________________________ 8. What changes or additions would you like to see in the magazine? __________________________________ __________________________________ 9. What is your wedding budget? __________________________________ 10. Is there anything you have had to compromise on or go without due to your budget? __________________________________ __________________________________ 1. What is your income bracket? $25-50,000 $51-75,000 $76-100,000 $100,000+

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12. Where in our region do you plan to marry and why? __________________________________ __________________________________ 13. Tick as many of the following products/ services you have booked or plan to book from the magazine n Venues n Catering and alcohol suppliers n Wedding planner n Celebrants n Enter tainment n Gowns, suits and fashion n Accessories and jewellery n Cakes n Flowers n Stationary n Photography and Video n Transpor t n Accommodation and Travel Services n Beauty Hair and Makeup n Other __________________________ 14. Will there be any other important decision makers apart from you?

Yes No If yes, who? Fiance` Brides Parents Grooms Parents Other _______________

Prize products may differ.

19. If you have been to any expos, what did you like and dislike about the event? __________________________________ __________________________________ 20. If you have any other comments please leave them here. __________________________________ __________________________________ __________________________________ __________________________________ Entrants details Bride Name ___________________________ _______________________ Age:__________

15. Where are you doing most of your research? Magazines Internet Which do you prefer? ________________ 16. What other wedding magazines do you buy/have you bought? Please list. __________________________________ __________________________________

Groom Name _________________________ _______________________ Age:__________ Address ______________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________ Phone _______________________________

17. What are your favourite websites for research? __________________________________ __________________________________ 18. Have you or do you plan to attend any wedding expo’s?

If yes, which ones? __________________________________ __________________________________

Email ________________________________ Location of wedding ____________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________ Engagement date _______________________ Wedding date _________________________

Photo Mihaja Photography

wedding timeline WHAT TO DO

DONE

âœ

IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE PROPOSAL m Announce your engagement to family and friends m Place an engagement notice in the newspaper m Organise an engagement party m Buy an engagement ring and decide on wedding rings m Set the date for your wedding m Decide on your wedding budget m Develop a theme or style for the occasion m Choose your bridal party m For an idea of numbers, do a preliminary guest list m Research reception and ceremony venues, obtain quotes m Arrange pre-wedding counselling and look for a minister or celebrant m Star t shopping for your dream gown m Research your photographer and videographer and obtain quotes

n n n n n n n n n n

(As these should be booked out well in advance)

n

m Book the reception venue m Consider the type of wedding transport you require and star t initial research m Book the catering and hire companies if required m Book the church/ceremony venue and the religious official or celebrant m Book your photographer and videographer

n n

m Visit a travel agent to discuss honeymoon options and packages

n n n

n n n n

SIX TO NINE MONTHS BEFORE

m Research florists and obtain quotes

n n n n

m Research musicians and enter tainment services and obtain quotes

n

m Buy the wedding dress, veil and accessories m Select attire for the groom and groomsmen

m Star t a health and fitness program

m Organise quotes and view menus from caterers

DONE

PRIORITY DECISIONS TO BE MADE

n n

m Enlist the services of a wedding co-ordinator if you’re having one

WHAT TO DO

m Shop with bridesmaids for dresses and accessories

m Research cake options, discuss them with cake designers and obtain quotes m Research hair and beauty stylists and obtain quotes m Draw up a guest list and research invitations and stationery m View wedding transpor t and obtain quotes

n n n n

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WHAT TO DO m Make arrangements for time off work before and after the wedding m Book honeymoon flights and accommodation and wedding night accommodation m Research accommodation for any out-of-town guests

DONE

m Order your wedding rings m Finalise hire/purchase details for the attire of the groom and groomsmen m Order invitations, weddings stationary and bonbonniere m Book the florist and flower preservation specialist m Book the wedding transport m Book musicians and entertainment and select the MC m Book hair and beauty stylists and arrange trials m Ensure passpor ts are up to date (if necessary) m Confirm if any visas or inoculations are needed m Meet with your photographer to discuss your requirements m Consider a Gift Registry m Order the wedding cake

n n n

m Send invitations and advise guests of the gift registry m Have a pre-wedding photo-shoot and finalise details m Arrange wedding accessories m Collect your wedding rings m Organise ceremony and reception rehearsals m Finalise the order of speeches and speech makers m Have a practice-run spray tan

notes

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North Coast WEDDINGS

m Have final fittings for all the bridal party and ensure all accessories are in order m Buy gifts for attendants and special helpers m Begin arrangements for name changes if applicable m Record all RSVPs and give the final number to the reception venue

n n n n n n n n n n n n n

TWO MONTHS BEFORE m Complete the Notice of Intended Marriage Cer tificate and organise other documentation with your celebrant

DONE

ONE MONTH BEFORE

THREE TO SIX MONTHS BEFORE m Finalise the menu and all details with the reception venue or caterer

WHAT TO DO

n n n n n n n n

n n n

m Pay the final balance on your honeymoon bookings

n n n

m Don’t forget your beauty plan! Have a facial, book final appointment for your nails, spray etc

n

m Organise CD’s to be played at the ceremony and reception if you are not having enter tainment

n

m Star t reception seating plan

m Arrange the order of events for the wedding day and any input such as vows/speeches m Enjoy your hen’s and buck’s nights!

n n

TWO WEEKS BEFORE m Have your engagement ring cleaned

n

m Collect the bride and bridesmaid’s gowns and hire suits if applicable

n

m Confirm ALL bookings and run through all details with each of them

n

m Re-confirm your final reception numbers and revise the seating plan

n

m Attend to finishing touches such as place cards and bonbonniere

n

m Hold the rehearsal and make sure the bridal par ty understands their individual roles

n

ONE WEEK TO GO m Pack for your honeymoon m Place announcement in the paper m Have a manicure and pedicure (+ spray tan) the day before the wedding m Relax, have a massage and get plenty of sleep

n n n n

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

Holding Hands

Waratah

Rose

Diamond Rings

Cut the Cake

Marriage Rings

Commemorative Certificates are a unique memento of your wedding day and can be displayed in a frame as a keepsake or become part of your album as an everlasting memory. Commemorative Certificates are purchased as a $71.00* package that includes a Standard Marriage Certificate (valued at $48.00) that can be used for official purposes. With each package, additional Commemorative Certificates can be purchased for $23.00 each.

To apply for your certificate, speak to your celebrant, visit our website or call the Registry on 1300 655 236.

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

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

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