N I N TH E D ITI O N 2 0 2 2
AU ST R A LI A’ S FI R ST S AM E S E X W E D D I N G MAGA ZI N E
So, you are enjoying that engaged feeling and starting to plan for your big day. How exciting! It may feel overwhelming with so much to organise, and you may have questions when it comes to wedding rings. The top 3 questions we are asked at Xennox Diamonds are:
1.
WHEN SHOULD I BUY THE WEDDING RINGS? We advise couples to start wedding ring shopping around 4 months out from their wedding day. This gives enough time to look at options and designs and be sure of the ring they are going to wear forever.
2.
WHAT METAL SHOULD I USE IN OUR RINGS? There has never been more choice in metals when manufacturing men’s wedding rings. Metals include platinum, titanium, tantalum, palladium, carbon fibre and of course yellow, rose, and white gold. With women’s wedding rings, we recommend using the same metal that has been used in the engagement ring to ensure they will wear well together.
3.
SHOULD I GET HANDMADE OR CAD? This will depend on the design of the ring. At Xennox we have an onsite workshop with our own jewellers and diamond setter, so we love to hand make wedding rings to match the engagement ring so the diamonds line up, the profile matches and they look like they were made to be together. Some rings are made for CAD and the team will be able to walk you through the best option for you.
At Xennox Diamonds we are here to make it simple for you and be your guide in creating your perfect rings. Check out some of our happy clients here: xennox diamonds reviews - Google Search We would love to meet you and be a small part of your special day. Book a time here to chat to the team, either virtually or in store and book an appointment here: www.xennoxdiamonds.com.au/book-appointment L2 141 Queen Street Mall, Brisbane Qld 4000
L2 141 Queen Street Mall, Brisbane Q 4000 info@xennoxdiamonds.com.au www.xennoxdiamonds.com.au
Front Cover Couple DREW & ADRIAN Photo: The White Tree
SALES & MARKETING Julie Fullerton julz@paddingtonpublications.com.au ONLINE + SOCIALS www.paddingtonpublications.com.au @samesameweddingsmagazine @samesameweddingsexpo @brisbaneweddingsmagazine _________________________________ NEXT EDITION September 2022 _________________________________ PUBLISHER + EDITOR Kerrie Gowenlock kerrie@paddingtonpublications.com.au Paddington Publications Pty Ltd ACN 065 292 364 ABN 819 479 402 20 SUB EDITOR Julie Fullerton
Enjoy this latest edition of Same Same Weddings. There hasn’t been
a better time than now to celebrate ALL LOVE and that is what we love doing. Congratulations to the fabulous Australian couples who have shared their weddings in this edition.
This publication is dedicated to celebrating LOVE, featuring same-sex couples who have recently tied the knot in Australia. The LGBTIQ+
community can contact any of the businesses showcased in Same Same Weddings with confidence, knowing they will be warmly welcomed and valued.
This edition is available via the ISSUU.com platform and is FREE for everyone to read anywhere, any time.
The next (TENTH) online edition will be uploaded September 2022. Happy planning and please share the love x Kerrie & Julz Stay social on facebook and insta @samesameweddingsmagazine @samesameweddingsexpo
___________________________________________________________________________________ All rights reserved. All material is copyright and cannot be reproduced in part or in full by any means, without the express permission of the publishers. While the publishers have taken all reasonable efforts to ensure the accuracy of the material contained in this publication, the publishers do not assume any responsibility or liability for any inaccuracy or omission, or from the use of the information contained herein and the publishers make no warranties, express or implied, with respect to any of the material contained herein.
IN THIS ISSUE
FEATURED BUSINESSES 54
BEVERLY YOUR MARRIAGE CELEBRANT
24-27
BLACK JACKET SUITING
39
CAKE ABOUT
47
CATALINA ROSE BAY
45
CAVES HOUSE HOTEL YALLINGUP
44
CELEBRATED MOMENTS - KRISTA WEBB
56
CRUISING YACHT CLUB OF SOUTH AUSTRALIA
52
JO BOOTH, EVENT CELEBRANT
55
KANGAROO RIDGE RETREAT
37
LE SANS SOUCI
13
LUXE FLORAL DESIGN CO
53
MARRIED BY MEREDITH
54
MAVIS KITCHEN & CABINS
16
MERCURE DARWIN AIRPORT RESORT
22
MEWBURN PARK HOMESTEAD
36
MINX CONTEMPORARY HAIR BOUTIQUE
36
MOISSANITE GEMSTONES INTERNATIONAL
57
MUD SHACK AT MUDJIMBA BEACH
14-15
MUSSON JEWELLERS
53
NOVOTEL NEWCASTLE BEACH
55
ONEDAY ESTATE
17
PAGODA RESORT & SPA
32
PRESTON PEAK WINERY FUNCTION CENTRE
38
ROARING TWENTIES VINTAGE CAR HIRE
106-108 SAME SAME WEDDINGS EXPO
Hannah & Hannah photo: Samuel White Photography
12
SPICERS HIDDEN VALE
38
STARFIRE DIAMOND JEWELLERY
44
STRADBROKE ISLAND EVENTS
23
THE CHAPEL MONTVILLE AND RECEPTION
33
THE CHEESE BAR
56
THE CURRANT SHED
46
THE MINDFUL CELEBRANT - SALLY LOUISE PERKINS
39
THE SURFING CELEBRANT
47
TINDARRA RESORT
37
WHEN FREDDIE MET LILLY
2
XENNOX DIAMONDS
6-7
YORK JEWELLERS
52
ZEST WATERFRONT VENUES - THE BEACHOUSE AT POINT PIPER
46
ZEST WATERFRONT VENUES - THE BOATHOUSE AT THE SPIT
45
ZIVA WEDDING DRESSES florals: Flower Head Events photo: MEO Weddings
SAME SAME WEDDINGS MAGAZINE - NINTH EDITION
STYLED INSPIRATION 34-35
FEATURED COUPLES
WHEN SPARKS FLY
76-79
ENERGY ENTERTAINMENTS
MADDY & JOS ELISE KAPELLER PHOTOGRAPHY OLINDA YARRA ESTATE
62-65
PAXTON PRIDE 80-83
THE SAILING CELEBRANT
FEATURED COUPLES 8-11
DREW & ADRIAN - FRONT COVER COUPLE
84-87
THE CLOAKROOM
88-91
92-95
FELICITY MEIKLE MARRIAGE CELEBRANT HANNAH & HANNAH
66-69
SOPHIE & MELANIE
SARAH & KATE
100-103 GILLIAN & JULIE
ELIZA & JO
58-61
96-99
SET YOUR SCENE
DANIEL & ANDREW STRADBROKE ISLAND EVENTS
48-51
DAVID & CHRIS AIMEE CATT PHOTOGRAPHY
ROSINA & KAYLI PRESTON PEAK WINERY FUNCTION CENTRE
40-43
MELINDA & DANIELLE MARRY ME HELLEY
HANNAH & KIAHN MEWBURN PARK HOMESTEAD
28-31
SHANNEN & CAITLIN AMANDA DOUGLASS CATERING
SPICERS HIDDEN VALE
18-21
JASON & DAVID
104-105 CAROLINE & ASH
OLIVERS REEF CREATIVE SMILING SAMOYED BREWERY 70-73
IANUK & ALETA PRAISE MOUNTAIN FARM
74-75
DAVE & MARK EKP STUDIOS XENNOX DIAMONDS
Adam & Corey photo: Jewel Chenoweth Photography
Moments Everlasting Shop 51A Westfield Penrith, 585 High Street Penrith, NSW 2750
|
(02) 4721 0780
|
yorkjewellers.com.au
Tiegan and Lauren
Engagement Story Sometimes when two people fall in love, it’s almost as if fate brought them together. Such was the case for Sydney couple Tiegan and Lauren, who appeared destined for one another from the outset.
“
“We actually met online,” Lauren explained.
“It was a platform where you interact with people from all over the world, which is why it came as such a surprise when we realised we lived around the corner from each other. Not only that, but we both played in the same soccer competition. I think we had already crossed paths.”
With little more than an idea about Tiegan’s preferred style of jewellery, she approached Doug and the team at York Jewellers to help her choose the perfect engagement ring.
“They were very welcoming and helped guide me through a lot
United by life’s circumstances, and a shared passion for sports, it didn’t take long for Lauren and Tiegan’s relationship to ‘kick off’.
of different options. It
“I don’t think there’s one specific moment when I realised Tiegan was the one’,” said Lauren.
from most jewellers,
“From the start it just always felt right. We dated for six years before deciding to buy a house together, and once that was done and life had settled a bit, proposing seemed like the natural thing to do.”
intimidating.”
was a completely different experience which can often be
“I brought in Tiegan’s sister, who has similar hands, and with her help I was able to choose a stunning ring that was sized just right.”
When it came time to pop the question, it was fate that once again intervened. “I had planned to propose on a Mount Kosciuszko hike, but when we got there the trail was closed.” “So we drove along looking for an alternative, and stumbled upon ‘Rainbow Lake walking track’, of all things.” “We got to the end of the hike, and it opened up to this stunning lake. That’s when I knew the time was right.” It was there - in front of Rainbow Lake - where Tiegan and Lauren became engaged. The wedding that followed, while perhaps not as favoured by fortune, was no less memorable. Guests were left huddling for shelter as a vicious storm rolled through the venue during the ceremony, but the less-than-ideal weather made the occasion all the more intimate. The married couple is now looking forward to a weekend away at the Astina Suites hotel in Penrith - a stay that was organised by York Jewellers after the purchase of their wedding bands.
Visit our website (www.yorkjewellers.com.au) to peruse our engagement and wedding ring designs, learn more about proposals, planning a wedding, and the custom design process, or to book an appointment with one of our friendly designers. Virtual and in-store
Photographer: info@marganphotography.com
bookings available.
Congratulations
DREW & ADRIAN 2.5.21 QLD
“
We both had our mothers walk us down the aisle at the ceremony which was a special moment that will stay with us forever. It’s surreal to have the person who loves you most in the world walk beside you to fulfill a significant milestone in your life.
Drew Gibbons and Adrian Scherma met while both attending the University of Queensland (UQ). “Adrian was in his last year of medical school and I was at the start of my International Relations degree. We had both gone to the same afterparty for an event, which was where we met. Neither of us were particularly sober when we met so things didn’t go the old fashioned way! We thought given how well our first meeting went that we should follow it up with dinner and a movie. Given we were just as smitten sober as when drunk, we thought things were worth pursuing. Nine years later, we both count our blessings that our paths crossed that night.” “We went to New Zealand for a week in May 2019 to stay in remote cabins made of glass. I wanted to make sure the proposal was an intimate experience that just the two of us would be able to enjoy with no other distractions (ie internet). It was the start of Winter, so the temperature dropped to single digits at night and the warmest place in the cabin was in bed. We had a bottle of champagne while stargazing and I turned to Adrian and said ‘lets do this forever’. Adrian didn’t realise what was going on until there was a Tiffany box with a ring in front of him. I put the ring on his finger and it didn’t quite fit right. So, I pushed it a little more until it went to the base of his finger, but it was obviously too tight and uncomfortable. However, the ring wouldn’t come off and Adrian’s finger started to turn purple. For the next 20 minutes we were trying desperately to get the ring off to save us having to make an embarrassing trip to the emergency room. Back in Australia we had the ring resized and more importantly, bought one for myself.”
“We wanted the wedding to be luxurious and easy. When we came across Spicers Hidden Vale, we knew right away that we had found the perfect venue. Drew grew up in the country and we wanted to have a wedding close to his roots, with a few additional indulgences. The second most important thing was that everything ran smoothly. The team at Spicers Hidden Vale nailed every aspect of the wedding from the planning all the way to the execution on the day. It took the pressure off of us and we were able to just go with the flow and enjoy ourselves. We spent the morning of the wedding out on an early morning walk in the countryside with friends before heading back to our room for some quiet time to reflect on our lives together, along with a bottle of champagne for the nerves! Spicers Hidden Vale is the perfect venue with numerous locations for stunning photos and incredible sunsets over the valley. Our first dance, which was brief and beautiful, turned into a free-for-all when all of our guests joined us on the dance floor for an amazing group dance. The energy and joy in the room was palpable.” “Our original plan was to honeymoon in Italy for three months. However, due to Covid restrictions, we ended up having a scaled-down domestic honeymoon. We drove to one of Australia’s top outback resorts, Mt Mulligan Lodge to spend a week there before enjoying Cairns, Port Douglas and Far North Queensland.“
DREW & ADRIAN’S WEDDING CREW ___________________________________ Ceremony, Reception and Accommodation
SPICERS HIDDEN VALE
https://spicersretreats.com/retreats/spicers-hidden-vale weddings.hiddenvale@spicersretreats.com Attire
THE CLOAKROOM
www.thecloakroom.com.au
brisbane@thecloakroom.co Favours - Limoncello Florals - Kate Dawson Flower Design Hair and Makeup - Marcus Edwards Concept Design Marriage Celebrant - Marry Me Marilyn - Marilyn Verschuure Music - The White Tree Photography - The White Tree Photo Booth - In The Booth Seating Plan and Name Tags - Signed With Love Tableware and Glassware - Table for Louis
“
Our advice for others planning their wedding is to make lists, spreadsheets, budgets, secondary lists, Pinterest boards, sticky note lists and lists that don’t even make sense! There’s so much to do that you won’t even realise it until you write it all down. If you’re good, you’ll delegate tasks you don’t want to do to your wedding party! Don’t wait six weeks before the date to organise a dress or a suit! Drew had his final suit fitting two days before the wedding!
SPI1980
A traditional homestead wedding venue perfect for romantics
617 Grandchester Mount Mort Rd, Grandchester QLD
spicersretreats.com facebook.com/spicershiddenvale
@spicershiddenvale #spicershiddenvale
F LO RI S T A ND EV ENT F LO RAL ST YLI NG The home of LUXE FLORALS specialising in silk florals and fresh florals to meet all your event needs.
a a a a
Custom silk and fresh floral arrangements for events. Bridal bouquets, ceremony and reception styling. Supply props for hire. Preserved floral bouquet workshops for your bridal shower or hens weekend activities.
All work is customised to suit your particular requirements and colour scheme. With over 19 years’ experience in the floristry industry, Luxe Floral Design Co., headed by senior Florist Jacky, is the go to for all your wedding floral styling. Jacky’s passion for flowers is prevalent in all that she does. __________________________________________________ Get in touch! luxefloraldesignco@gmail.com www.luxefloraldesignco.com luxefloraldesignco
Entwined
MUSSON.COM.AU l +61 2 9412 0888 l QVB SYDNEY l CHATSWOOD CHASE
DESIGN & STYLE
THE FINEST DESIGNS Exquisite jewellery to treasure forever from Musson Jewellers
We love weddings at Musson! We have a unique range of wedding bands for men and women. You can never have too many diamonds.
M
usson is a unique business in
cufflinks with a couple’s interlocking initials
that much of what we produce
for several clients, personalised keepsakes of
is one-off due to the individual
your wedding day that can be worn for years
gems we select. We design and manufacture
to come. We can also design wedding party
in Sydney 95% of the creations you view in
jewellery, the perfect gift to say thank you.
our boutiques. We are known for our unique sculptural design, unusual setting styles and unparalleled quality of manufacture. Our pieces are contemporary yet timeless.
We tell clients constantly there are no rules. White diamonds are the most popular stones for engagement rings, but they’re far from the only option. We have made the most beautiful
At Musson we create bespoke wedding
engagement rings featuring rare coloured
jewellery. We have designed earrings and
diamonds and rich sapphires.
“An engagement or wedding ring should be your unique expression of love.”
“Be motivated by what inspires you. You are going to wear these rings every day and you have to love them. Wedding jewellery is a celebration and you should feel special and honoured to wear these rings.” At Musson we have had a long love affair with Argyle Pink Diamonds, with our founder being one of the first jewellers to be invited to the Argyle Pink Diamond Tender. (Musson is a Select Atelier for Argyle Pink Diamonds). Argyle Pink Diamonds are ‘beyond rare’, being billions of years old and the rarest natural commodity on earth. We love using them in wedding jewellery as side or accent stones to beautifully contrast with white diamonds, or even hidden within a setting so only the wearer is aware of their presence.
Visit us in store or online to discover more of our engagement & wedding ring offering. www.musson.com.au (02) 9412 0888
DARWIN AIRPORT RESORT HONEYMOONS
Mercure Darwin Airpor t Resor t is the per fect location for an unforgettable Darwin honeymoon, with the resor t ’s tropical gardens , lagoon-st yle pool with cascading water fall, and luxurious 4-star hotel.
1 & 2 Sir Norman Brearley Drive, Marrara NT 0810 +61 400 399 581 www.darwinairporthotels.com.au/rooms/tropical-pool-villa
Nestled on the shores of Perth’s spectacular Swan River, the Pagoda Resort & Spa offers a choice of three unique venue options to ensure the perfect setting for your dream day. The Historic Ballroom is classic in style and offers old world warmth and charm through elegant chandelier lighting, high ceilings, private wooden raised bar and open glass windows offering expansive river views. For a more intimate gathering, Waterwall Restaurant & Bar is beautifully suited to a cocktail style Wedding reception, featuring natural lighting with floor-to-ceiling glass windows and its own private bar. The Pagoda Ballroom is elegantly decorated with detailed ceilings, crystal chandeliers and white columns. Featuring glass doors that open to the poolside courtyard. Its neutral colour scheme makes the perfect back drop for any theming.
Since 1926
A Western Australian landmark sincespecial 1926,day. Whichever style you desire, there are a range of options to satisfy all budgets and guests for your Our dedicated team of wedding specialists look forward to welcoming you has and always your guests the Historic Ballroom enjoyed to the Pagoda Resort &life Spa. as a recreation and entertainment venue with a rich history.
Since 1926
The ballroom features a unique architecture with Chinese inspired structure, whilst internally A Western Australian landmark sincechandeliers, 1926, it oozes old world charm with its elegant the Historic Ballroom has always enjoyed high ceilings, raised bar and a grand piano from life 1800’s. as a recreation and entertainment the late Since establishment its purpose Personalised friendly service | All-inclusive packagesvenue | Affordable &history. flexible with a rich has varied from a tearoom, roller skating rink Elegant flower walls | Warm, elegant 4.5 star accommodation | Poolside and a renowned danceCeremonies pavilion. Easy access - ample free street parking orThe secure hotel features parking aavailable ballroom unique architecture with Chinese inspired structure, whilstBallroom internally Historic Como Jetty & footbridge for photography opportunities During World War II, the Historic it oozeswas oldused world charm with its elegant chandeliers, as accommodation for soldiers. high ceilings, raised as bara dance and a grand piano from Post-war, its status pavilion became the latea1800’s. Since establishment its purpose birthplace of many a romance! has varied from a tearoom, roller skating rink andthe a renowned danceResort pavilion. Today team at Pagoda & Spa
intends to ensure the romance continues. During World War II, the Historic Ballroom was used as accommodation for soldiers. Post-war, its status as a dance pavilion became Nestled onshores the shores of Perth’s spectacular Pagoda Resort &of offers aromance! choice of three Nestled on the of Perth’s spectacular Swan Swan River, River, Pagodathe Resort & Spa offers aSpa choice ofathree unique a birthplace many
unique venue options to ensure perfect setting for your dream venue options to ensure the the perfect setting for your dream day. day. The Historic Ballroom charm through elegant chandelier lighting, Historic Ballroomis isclassic classicininstyle styleand andoffers offersold oldworld worldwarmth warmth and and through chandelier Today the team elegant at Pagoda Resortlighting, & Spa high ceilings, privatehigh wooden raised bar and openraised glass bar windows offering river views. For aromance more intimate gathering, ceilings, private wooden and open glass expansive windows expansive river views. intendsoffering to ensure the continues. Waterwall Restaurant & Bardecorated is beautifully to ceilings a cocktail style Wedding reception, featuring natural lighting with Pagoda Ballroom is elegantly withsuited detailed and crystal chandeliers featuring glass doors that open to the floor-to-ceiling windowspoolside and its courtyard. own private Pagoda Ballroom is elegantly decorated with detailed tropicalglass landscaped Its bar. neutral colour scheme makes it the perfect backdrop for any ceilings, theme. crystal chandeliers and white columns. doors that openis to the poolside courtyard. Thewedding room’s neutral colour palette For a more intimate gathering,Featuring Waterwallglass Restaurant & Bar beautifully suited to a relaxed reception featuring P +61 8 9367 0300 makes the perfect back drop for any theme. natural lighting withitfloor-to-ceiling glass windows and its own private bar. E admin@pagoda.com.au Whichever budgets and and guests guests for foryour yourspecial specialday. day. Whicheverstyle styleyou youdesire, desire,there thereare areaarange rangeof ofoptions options to satisfy all budgets A 112 Melville Parade, Como 6152, WA Our dedicated team of wedding specialists looklooking forward to welcoming you and guests to Pagoda Resort & Spa. Our dedicated wedding coordinator and team are forward to welcoming you your and your guests to Pagoda Resort & Spa.
www.pagoda.com.au
Contact our team (08) 9367 0300 P +61 8 9367 0300 112 Melville Parade, Como 6152, WA E admin@pagoda.com.au admin@pagoda.com.au A 112 Melville Parade, Como 6152, WA www.pagoda.com.au www.instagram.com/Pagodaresor t
www.pagoda.com.au
Congratulations
HANNAH & KIAHN 8.12.21 VIC
“
Our wedding was a dream and was full of laughter and tears. It was a rollercoaster of emotions and filled with lots of fun! Our guests said they have never had so much fun at a wedding!
Hannah Lonnee and Kiahn Powell met at a pub during Happy Hour. “For me it was love at first sight yet Kiahn was blind to my love. Each week we would meet with our different groups of friends until eventually they all became friends. My tactic to leave a lasting impression was to shout Kiahn drinks and pretend to forget her name. But this just left Kiahn rather tipsy and angry that I could never remember her name! Years went by and we became very good friends. Until one night I had a lifethreatening allergic reaction which shut down the pub. The truth came out about my love for Kiahn that night and I guess you could say the rest is history.” “Our proposal was like no other. It was Kiahn’s birthday. The ONE day she knew I would not have been suspicious. I finished work, quickly got changed and then we went off to the local Botanical Gardens for a romantic picnic for two. We arrived at the park and were looking for the perfect spot. Kiahn led the way. Hidden under the trees was a proposal set up like something out of the movies. Rose petals in the shape of a love heart, hanging candles and fairy lights from the trees. I wasn’t suspicious at all until I heard our song playing as we approached and my friend hiding in the bushes with her camera to capture the moment. Kiahn sealed the deal by saying the best birthday present I could ever give her would be to spend the rest of her life with me.” “We chose 8 December 2021 as our wedding date to honour my (Hannah) Dad. It marked 15 years since he passed away. He will forever be remembered and we stole his date from this year onwards. The theme behind our wedding was to honour those who couldn’t be there on our special day. Remembering how they shaped our journey and had the best seats in heaven above. Family is so important to the both of us so we included our mums as surprise witnesses with an explanation as to why we had chosen our best friends to sign our marriage certificate.” “One of our highlights was our ‘overgrown’ flower boy throwing petals from his rainbow bum bag while dancing to ZZ Top’s ‘Sharp Dressed Man’. Kiahn is a dancer so we included the Dirty Dancing lift and a back flip to get the dance floor going.” “Finding vendors who are LGBTIQ+ inclusive surprisingly in this day and age can be a challenge. We ended up asking up front to avoid being told face to face. But what better way to ensure you are in safe hands than to use Same Same Weddings Magazine’s couples recommendations!” “For our honeymoon we spent an amazing three weeks exploring The Whitsundays - Cairns, Airlie Beach and Long Island! We stayed one week at each location enjoying the beautiful blue beaches and all the hidden gems the locals knew about.”
HANNAH & KIAHN’S WEDDING CREW ____________________________________ Ceremony, Reception and Accommodation
MEWBURN PARK HOMESTEAD www.mewburnpark.com.au
info@mewburnpark.com.au Attire - Raffaele Ciuca Bridal (Dresses) Cake - Angie’s Cake Emporium Catering - Duart Homestead Florals - Pollen and Patina Hair - Jayde Johns Hire and Styling - Jayde Bell Jewellery - Jeremy Fleming Jewellers Makeup - Lauren Baker Makeup Artistry Marriage Celebrant - Evie Wilson Music - Sweet Lip Band Photography - Gumnut Studio Videography - Lisa Hayman Photo and Film
“
My highlight was when Kiahn arrived at the end of the aisle on the back of a Vespa before being walked down the aisle by her mum and dad. I was so nervous until I saw her zooming in on the back of a Vespa with the horn beeping like mad!
G IPPS L AN D
·
V I C
A historic estate with a modern twist in the heart of Gippsland, offering you and your guests a perfect and relaxed wedding day. An unforgettable ceremony under a shady tree or at the historic Stables, breathtaking photo opportunities and a dreamy reception in our clear view marquee. @ M E W B U R N PA R K
The Chapel Montville AND RECEPTION
Stunning Award-winning Chapel in the Heart of Montville. In a class of its own,
combining traditional building skills, craftsmanship and unique features throughout and boasting a backdrop of panoramic views across the Sunshine Coast Hinterland to the ocean, The Chapel is sure to make your day a truly special and memorable one.
Enquiries 0437 531 116 161-167 Main Street, Montville QLD 4560 info@thechapelmontville.com.au www.thechapelmontville.com.au thechapelmontville the_chapel_montville
Ben Connolly Photography
www.blackjacketsuiting.com.au
Congratulations
ROSINA & KAYLI 28.5.21 QLD
“
The entire day was amazing. Our highlight was our couples dance which was definitely a show stopper and so much fun!
Rosina Silvestro and Kayli Lewis met while playing Roller Derby on opposing teams. “We both had grand proposal plans which we hadn’t shared with each other. Only our friends and some family members knew our individual plans. On our trip to Europe, Kayli had planned to propose in Italy on a day trip to the Dolomite Mountains. I (Rosina) had organised a night out at a gig, where we had friends playing in a band, to get up and sing a song at the end and then propose. Then on New Year’s Eve 2016, I was cooking a beautiful Japanese dinner, had a few too many drinks while cooking and couldn’t hold back the question any longer! I proposed with my Grandma’s ring and Kayli said ‘Yes!’. We both then told each other of our original grand proposal stories and laughed about it because we are both so competitive.” “The wedding theme was Rustic Pagan and the entire day was amazing. Our advice for others planning their wedding is to have fun! Don’t let the little things get you down. Nothing is ever 100% perfect. Our honeymoon is still on hold due to Covid.”
ROSINA & KAYLI’S WEDDING CREW __________________________________ Ceremony and Reception
PRESTON PEAK WINERY FUNCTION CENTRE www.prestonpeakfunctions.com.au functions@prestonpeak.com
Accessories - Tree of Life and Stoned Hilda Bell Tent - Glamping Hire Co Cake - Confetti Cakes Favours, Stationery and Invitations - DIY Florals - The Little Flower Stall Hair - Carl David Jewellery - Michael Hill Jewellers Makeup - Skin Spirit Day Spa Marriage Celebrant - Cloud Nine Ceremonies Music - G&M Event Group (Ben Shipway DJ) Photography - Stone and Wool Photography Transport - My Private Transfers Videography - Abbey Craik
Stone & Wool Photography
www.prestonpeakfunctions.com.au ~ book a personal tour ~ 0418 865 336
We supply the cheese. You style the tower. SHOP ONLINE
THE CHEESE BAR gourmet cheese for any affair
• • • •
Cheese towers for 20-180 guests French, UK & Australian cheese Brisbane based click & collect Custom towers also available
W E D D I N G T OW E RS , D ES S E R T B U FFE T S , C H E ES E P L AT T E RS , H A M P E RS & G I F T B OX ES
www.thecheesebar.com.au
Image Florido Photography & Videography www.floridoweddings.com
D.I.Y. CHEESE TOWERS
When Sparks Fly Add energy to your wedding reception with a giant flaming heart, a finale of sparks accompanied by hypnotising fire performances, fire bursts and sparking fire equipment. From grandparents to toddlers, your guests will all be mesmorised by Energy Entertainments. “I’m not a photographer, just a guy who loves making weddings extra special with lots of FIRE and SPARKS.” Neal Webb, Energy Entertainments
ENERGY ENTERTAINMENTS
www.energyentertainments.com.au/wedding-entertainment-2 energyfireshows@gmail.com
Moissanite Gemstones International will custom make your dream engagement and wedding rings using the most beautiful gemstones on earth. With over 20 years’ experience in the Jeweller y industr y and being the original source of Moissanite in Australia, nobody has more experience than us. We love what we do and you will too.
MOISSANITE GEMSTONES INTERNATIONAL Complimentary Viewing and Design Consults by Appointment.
1800 444 464 14 Bedara Crt, Mermaid Waters QLD 4128 info@moissanite.com.au www.moissanite.com.au
moissanitegemstonesinternational moissanitegemstonesint
Mention this ad to receive your FREE Hair Trial
At MINX, we are all about luxur y and glamour and pride ourselves on our attention to detail. Established in 2009, we are exper ts in our field. We want your special day to be stress-free and relaxing. We have an in salon private Bridal Suite that can be booked out just for you, your bridesmaids and guests which includes decadent catering and extensive drinks menu or we offer Our Premium Mobile ser vices which allow for professional and highly-trained bridal stylists and make up ar tists to assist you at your own location. 07 4632 3055 456 Ruthven Street, Toowoomba Q 4350 info@minxhairboutique.com.au www.minxcontemporaryhairboutique.com.au
T&Cs To claim your free hair trial, you must have a confirmed wedding booking and paid a deposit.
minxcontemporaryhairboutique minxcontemporaryhairboutique
VISIT OUR BEAUTIFUL BRISBANE STUDIO TO VIEW OUR BRIDAL, BRIDESMAID, FORMAL AND SUITS COLLECTIONS. IT WOULD BE OUR PLEASURE TO BE INVOLVED IN YOUR BIG DAY.
Dresses and suits are made to order and can be fully customised to your liking. Our experienced stylists will guide you through the creative process to make the design become entirely your own. We offer a divine bespoke suiting ser vice for our brides, grooms and their groomsmen as well as our formal clients. We also have off-the-rack suiting options. WhenFreddieMetLilly whenfreddiemetlilly
07 3368 3261 or 0408 079707 whenfreddiemetlilly@gmail.com www.whenfreddiemetlilly.com.au
photo: Dan Vonhoff Photography venue: Gabbinbar Homestead Toowoomba
WEDDINGS & EV EN T S
Exquisite Flowers for all Moments in Life
We take care of the little things
0437 305 700
hello@lesanssouci.com.au www.lesanssouci.com.au
DIAMOND SPECIALISTS AND JEWELLERS Starfire Diamond Jewellery signifies the fiery brilliance of diamonds. Founded and created by Shweta, a leading industry expert on diamonds with extensive experience in diamonds who is also a talented jewellery designer. The team at Starfire are diamond specialists and can tailor make any engagement ring or wedding band. Starfire has their own diamond wholesale business with an extensive range of diamonds for clients to select to suit their budget and style.
07 3399 1176 158 Oxford Street, Bulimba Q 4171
StarfireJewellery
enquiries@starfirejewellery.com starfirediamondjewellery
www.starfirejewellery.com
ROA R ING TW ENTIES ~vintage car hire~ Roaring Twenties Vintage Car Hire specialises in Vintage vehicles from the 1930’s to celebrate your special day. Amazing double act: CLYDE, a 1937 Midnight Blue Dodge Convertible and C APONE, a 1936 Burgundy Chr ysler Airstream represent the ultimate in comfort and style. Enjoy being surrounded by exquisite luxurious interiors and old world charm.
0405 111 875 roaringtwenties@outlook.com.au www.roaringtwenties.net.au
roaringtwentiesvintagecarhire roaringtwentiesvintagecarhire
We create custom cakes for all special occasions. All cakes are tailored to your theme and are baked using quality ingredients. Let us help make your cake dreams come true. enquiries@cakeabout.com.au www.cakeabout.com.au
cakeaboutwithmarz cakeabout
CELEBRANT & MASTER OF CEREMONIES
Fun yet heartfelt celebrations
Let’s Chat - 0414 808 222 thesurfingcelebrant.com.au | @thesurfingcelebrant
Congratulations
DANIEL & ANDREW 27.3.21 QLD
“
The weather and relaxed atmosphere that North Stradbroke Island provides in spades and the gorgeous friendly people with tons of good vibes helped to make our wedding perfect.
Daniel Spiteri and Andrew Ioannides met when Daniel moved from the Gold Coast to be closer to work in Brisbane. “Andrew moved into my old room after I had left. During a visit to the same place some 12 months later to catch up with my old room mates, I was introduced to Andrew.” Daniel describes the proposal: “We had taken a trip with our best friends to Bali and I organised for one of the hotel staff to prepare an area by the villa pool for me to propose to Andrew. We had been out exploring most of the day and when we returned to the villa, “Will you marry me?” had been written in rose petals across the decking. Andrew was shocked as he thought the hotel staff had ruined someone else’s proposal by dressing up our villa in error. He had no idea, it was for us!” “Our wedding theme was Coastal/Beachside/Bohemian. Our advice to others planning a wedding is to engage a wedding planner like Donna and her team at Stradbroke Island Events and just relax! They know exactly what they are doing and you can relax and enjoy your special day as you spend so long waiting for it to arrive and when it finally does, it flies by. Just breathe and take it all in. Due to Covid and unpredictable lockdowns we decided to postpone our honeymoon, however we are planning a trip around Australia for our 1st Anniversary.”
DANIEL & ANDREW’S WEDDING CREW ______________________________________ Planning and Styling
STRADBROKE ISLAND EVENTS www.stradbrokeislandevents.com.au
info@stradbrokeislandevents.com.au Cake - Cakes by Simone Ceremony - Home Beach, North Stradbroke Island Hair - Stranded on Straddie Makeup - Stradbroke Island Makeup Marriage Celebrant - Sheryl Gotje Photography - Stradbroke Island Photography Reception and Accommodation - Private Home
From micro to mega
Stradbroke Island Events are leaders in the industry. They absolutely love what they do and it shows.
Destination Weddings
without the hefty price tag is what they do best.
CELEBRATED MOMENTS Contemporary Ceremonies For Awesome Couples
I deliver stylish, modern and fun ceremonies that connect with your guests. The most common comment I hear after a wedding is: “That was the best ceremony I have ever been to!” Looking for a personalised ceremony that is unique, fun, relaxed and memorable? Contact me, Krista Webb, Marriage Celebrant.
0417 626 791
krista@celebratedmoments.com.au www.celebratedmoments.com.au BrisbaneWeddingCelebrant
photo: Konrad Brewski Photography
brisbaneweddings
The perfect location to say ‘I do’, Caves House Hotel is a Heritagelisted building, restored to its former elegance and charm, with glorious Art Deco décor and furnishings. Surrounded by 1.8 hectares of gardens and manicured lawns stretching towards the ocean, it is ideal for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies and receptions, as well as being the perfect backdrop for breathtaking photos.
08 9750 1888 18 Yallingup Beach Road, Yallingup WA 6282 functions@ychh.com.au www.caveshousehotelyallingup.com.au
caveshousehotelyallingup caveshousehotel
T H E B OAT H O USE AT T HE SPIT Located at the Middle Harbour 16ft Skiff Club and sitting right on the beach, Zest Waterfront Venue’s Boathouse at The Spit offers outstanding wedding experiences, designed personally for you. The relaxed rustic boathouse features gorgeous warm timber and impor ted stone with stunning gold-leaf painted ceilings, offering you a touch of glam and the ultimate in relaxed luxur y. We create unique experiences focusing on the highest quality of ser vice, food, styling and personalised event design. zestvenues zest_waterfront_venues
Middle Harbour 16ft Skiff Club, 237 Spit Road, Mosman NSW 2088 02 9932 4644 events@zest.net.au www.zest.net.au
SALLY LOUISE PERKINS
THE MINDFUL CELEBRANT
LET’S TELL YOUR STORY TOGETHER
Hi, I’m Sal. I’m a fun, grounded celebrant and I believe love makes the world go round! I specialise in unique, bespoke ceremonies on the Central Coast and throughout NSW. Whether you’d like a sweet intimate elopement or the full fandango, we can make it happen just the way you’ve dreamed. 0421 484 449 sally@themindfulcelebrant.com www.themindfulcelebrant.com themindfulcelebrant photo: Syl Marie Photography
themindfulcelebrant
Ceremony, Reception and Accommodation
x x x
300 metres of river frontage. Celebrate all through the weekend with our Exclusivity Offer. Wedding coordinator to take care of everything so you can relax and enjoy the process. 03 5483 6888
c a t a l i n a r o s e b a y. c o m . a u
02 9371 0555 | RESERVATIONS@CATALINAROSEBAY.COM.AU LYNE PARK, ROSE BAY, NSW 2029 AUSTRALIA
x
79 Perricoota Road, Moama NSW 2731
Every wedding deserves to be a day to be cherished and remembered for all the right reasons. At Catalina Rose Bay, the passion and creativity we put into each special event ensures an exceptional experience that is unique to each couple. The delicate touches, the service and exquisite food and wine combined with a stunning harbour-side location, serves to provide a
events@tindarra.com.au www.tindarra.com.au TindarraResort TindarraResort
bespoke wedding experience like no other in Sydney. Our outdoor terrace, overlooking Sydney Harbour, is the perfect setting for both daytime and evening ceremonies, prior to a lunch, dinner, or cocktail reception in the dining room. Catalina is the perfect location for both intimate and large wedding celebrations.
Congratulations
ELIZA & JO 20.6.21 NSW
“
Being married is the coolest thing ever. I love being a wife with my wife.
Eliza Stone and Jo Blacker met in 2011 at Charles Sturt University in Wagga. “Jo opened the door to her residence and for her it was love at first sight. For me it took a little longer, although I did think she was drop dead gorgeous. We were friends for around five years before it occurred to us that we were madly in love with each other, about two weeks before Jo left for a two-year working holiday in Canada.” “After lengthy discussions that it would be Jo who was responsible for the proposal when the time came, I got tired of waiting and decided to do it myself. I booked a couple’s photoshoot under the guise of ‘Hey we should do this, just for fun’. I had organised with our photographer Missy, that she would use a code-phrase of ‘turn back-to-back’ and then I would pop the question. When the time came, I forgot my question and Jo forgot her answer. Eventually I got it out and we confirmed with Missy that I had asked her to marry me and Jo had in fact said ‘Yes’. It was raining heavily and neither of us had been happier to be caught in it.” “We were married exactly one year after our engagement date. Our wedding inspiration was ‘as close to Canada as Covid will allow’. Jo wore a forest green velvet tuxedo as a nod to the deep green forests of Canada. We drew the line at wearing matching hockey jerseys, although they were considered. We chose Thredbo Village for its beautiful snow and forests and we chose the Thredbo Alpine Hotel because of the lovely chateau style and amazing vibes. We also knew that with the risk of snow or rain, the hotel’s Lounge Bar was a perfect backup ceremony location, still in line with our snowy wonderland dreams.” “Our advice for other couples planning their wedding is people are going to have opinions, do not listen to them, you’re not going to be able to please everyone so you may as well please yourselves. If you want to elope, do it! Just take moments through the day to be present and take it all in. It will be a whirlwind, so take the time to take a breath.” “We spent our honeymoon in Katoomba, NSW. We spent three days in our little Airbnb, reading books and snuggling in front of the fire while it rained outside. Due to a Covid outbreak in the Blue Mountains, when we returned home to Canberra we had to isolate for 14 days, creating a sort of extended honeymoon. We are planning an overseas honeymoon to Canada, Norway and Bora Bora once our life and the world settles down a bit.”
ELIZA & JO’S WEDDING CREW _____________________________ Marriage Celebrant
FELICITY MEIKLE
www.felicitymeikle.com
meikle.felicity@gmail.com Attire - Annabel’s Bridal, Institchu Ceremony and Accommodation - Thredbo Alpine Hotel Florals - Eight Stems Photography - Keepsake Photography Reception - Cascades Restaurant Stationery and Invitations - Vistaprint
“
Our vows, despite having been written completely separately, were almost identical down to the wording of ‘It Has Always Been You’. Sneaking away from the reception to pop back to our suite and take a few minutes to reflect on the day with just the two of us was definitely a memorable moment from the day.
T H E B E A C H O U S E AT POIN T P IP E R Located at the prestigious Royal Motor Yacht Club, only minutes from the city and enjoying a commanding position over Sydney’s spectacular Rose Bay, Zest Waterfront Venue’s Beachouse at Point Piper offers outstanding wedding experiences, designed personally for you. A stylish Hamptons beach house theme with elegant oyster shell feature walls, fresh limewash timber floors and lighting accents, offers you the ultimate in relaxed luxur y. We create unique experiences focusing on the highest quality of ser vice, food, styling and personalised event design. zestvenues zest_waterfront_venues
Royal Motor Yacht Club, 21 Wunulla Road, Point Piper NSW 2027 02 9327 3441 renee@zest.net.au www.zest.net.au
Love Hustler Wedding Whisperer Party Starter
photo: Sydney Wedding Photography by Katsu
My favourite part of being a Sydney wedding celebrant is getting to know you and your love story so I can craft a bespoke ceremony that will live on long after the wedding cake. One that will make you laugh while making your heart skip a beat. I am a Celebrant who also LOVES to MC receptions and other events. I have years of experience working on loads of events and I am BUSTING to make your wedding fun, unique, and one you will never forget!
0425 304 912 hello@joboothcelebrant.com.au www.joboothcelebrant.com.au
joboothcelebrant jobootheventcelebrant
For personalised ceremonies that are Relaxed Humorous Genuine Meaningful Inclusive Fun n n
n n
n n
n n
n n
n n
LOOKING for a relaxed, fun Celebrant who can make you and your guests laugh through their happy tears? WANT someone who feels like a friend to guide you through the getting married journey? I’M THE ONE! Your ceremony is often the official start to your wedding day so let’s do it well. I take the time to get to know you both and create a ceremony that is unique to you. I genuinely care that every couple has an amazing time getting married.
0413 795 844
Get in touch and let’s create a ceremony that sets the perfect vibe for the rest of your wedding day!
hello@marriedbymeredith.com www.marriedbymeredith.com
marriedbymeredith
marriedbymeredith
Weddings at NOVOTEL NEWCASTLE BEACH
Ideally located within the beachside suburb of Newcastle East, Novotel Newcastle Beach is surrounded by multiple picturesque photography and ceremony locations. Our function rooms offer floorto-ceiling windows, ample natural light and flexible room configurations. Our affordable package options are flexible and can be tailored to your needs. photo: CNJ Photography
NovotelNewcastleBeach novotelnewcastlebeach
02 4032 3704 events.novotelnewcastlebeach@accor.com www.novotelnewcastlebeach.com.au/weddings-at-novotel
Established in 2007, Mavis Kitchen & Cabins at Wollumbin, Mt Warning is an iconic destination restaurant, boutique accommodation provider and popular wedding venue which has become a highly soughtafter destination offering everything on site for idyllic celebrations. Wandering creeks, 360 degree views of Wollumbin, various ceremony sites, picturesque gardens and an award-winning restaurant make Mavis Kitchen & Cabins a romantic setting for intimate elopements and large celebrations of 100.
Get Married by Mavis
Beverly
Contact Ursula Thompson 02 6679 5664 64 Mt Warning Road, Uki NSW 2484 30 minutes from Ballina, Gold Coast Airport and Byron Bay events@maviseskitchen.com.au www.maviseskitchen.com.au mavis.s.kitchen mavisesweddings
YOUR MARRIAGE CELEBRANT
Helping create memorable memories that are filled with your love story! I am so grateful to have played a par t in my couples’ love journeys over the past 10 years. I am happy to travel anywhere in NSW and flexible with any type of ceremony, with some bling or simple, maybe traditional, including family rituals, special blessings or celebrating over cheese and champagne. I will take the stress out of your ceremony planning and would love to have a chat over coffee, wine or vir tually. BEVERLY SIMMONS-HURTADO
0430 035 058 beverly@yourcelebrantandceremony.com www.yourcelebrantandceremony.com.au
YourCelebrantandCeremony celebrant_beverly
KANGAROO RIDGE RETREAT
The Heart of the Yarra Valley
Kangaroo Ridge Retreat are stunning and secluded cabins with everything set up for a luxurious post-wedding escape at Healesville in the heart of the Yarra Valley. Revel in the togetherness felt during those first glorious days as a wedded couple. Steal away from the reception and hide away.
0431 558 247 38 Turners Lane, Healesville VIC 3777 enquiry@kangarooridge.com.au www.kangarooridge.com.au kangarooridge
Unique and memorable winery weddings on the beautiful Bellarine Peninsula Picturesque views from a choice of 3 ceremony sites, capacity for up to 200 guests, outdoor seating amongst the vines and so much more! We understand you want to celebrate somewhere that you love which also offers you the freedom to craft your own experience. One of our top priorities is to offer flexibility in a relaxed atmosphere where you can create a day that reflects who you truly are.
0419 300 281 45 Curlewis Road, Curlewis VIC 3222
functions@onedayestate.com.au www.onedayestate.com.au
onedayestatewines onedayestatewines
Award-winning Ceremony and Reception Venue Panoramic Marina Views | Exclusive | Unique | Memorable Cruising Yacht Club of SA | p. 08 8248 4222 | www.cycsa.com.au
Relax and Unwind at the
MUD SHACK at Mudjimba Beach
on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast Self-contained, air conditioned beach shack. Walk to Mudjimba Beach, restaurants and shops. Tropical Resort pool and gardens and dog-friendly.
MUD SHACK AT MUDJIMBA BEACH Bookings vs2965@tpg.com.au FB www.facebook.com/mudshackatmudjimbabeach INSTA www.instagram.com/mudjimbamudshack
e
AIRBNB www.airbnb.com/h/sunshine-coast-shack-by-the-sea
e
Congratulations
HANNAH & HANNAH 21.12.21 NSW
“
We wanted to go for a ‘Wedstival’ vibe where our guests could enjoy the days before and after the wedding and make a holiday out of it as the wedding was located at Worrowing - Jervis Bay (2.5hrs out of Sydney where the majority of our guests live).
Hannah Bamford and Hannah Croston met while on Exchange at Queen’s University in Canada. “It turns out we lived 10 minutes away from each other in Sydney but we had to travel halfway across the world to meet!” “Hannah B proposed on 19 December 2020 by popping the question on our favourite beach, Werri Beach Gerringong, with a bespoke picnic to enjoy. Hannah C proposed two days later in the exact same way! A proposal on Mollymook Beach with a bespoke picnic and photobook of all of our first photos and favourite memories together. We had never discussed a proposal on the beach and we don’t even like beaches that much. Just goes to show we are meant to be together. Great minds think alike!” “Our wedding was exactly one year after Hannah C proposed. The three words we wanted our wedding to encapsulate were ‘Relaxed, Fun and Funky’. We would also describe our wedding as ‘slightly boho with pops of colour’. We opted for a food and drink caravan and a cocktail style wedding with roaming food and drinks.” “There were so many wedding highlights. All of our vendors were incredible and absolutely made our day. Definitely our venue, amazing food and drinks alongside the mood and atmosphere created by the live band. Our photographer was able to capture the vibe of our wedding in the candid, relaxed style we wanted and our flowers were the perfect pop of colour we wanted as a wow factor to the day.” “Our advice for other couples planning their wedding: It can feel overwhelming at times so we would recommend investing in amazing vendors that will make your day run so smoothly. They are the experts and will bring their ‘A’ game. Don’t worry about tradition. We did our wedding a little bit differently and everyone enjoyed it a lot more as we wanted it to be a big party and celebration of our love! Make sure to enjoy some moments to yourself as the day goes by so quickly. ” “Due to Covid, we continued down the South Coast on a road trip for our honeymoon. We visited Mollymook, Bermagui, Tathra and Pambula and then finished off with a few nights where we got engaged in Gerringong.”
HANNAH & HANNAH’S WEDDING CREW _______________________________________ Accessories - Berry Blow Bar (Hannah C hair accessories) Attire - Hope X Page (Hannah B - Prea James skirt and top), Perfect Day Bridal (Hannah C - daisy skirt and top) Catering - Bumpy Road Catering Ceremony, Reception and Accommodation - Worrowing, Jervis Bay Florals - Aisle of Eden Hair and Makeup - Berry Blow Bar Hire and Styling - Hoorah Events Marriage Celebrant - Amy Watson Music - The White Tree Photography - Samuel White Photography Rings - Meg Maskell (Hannah C’s engagement ring and matching wedding bands), Chilton’s Antiques (Hannah B’s engagement ring) Stationery and Invitations - Canva Transport - Kennedy’s Buses Videography - Two Folk Films
“
A great tip is to have a sunset/golden hour photoshoot where you can escape the wedding and have some time to yourselves to sit back, look at the venue and your guests enjoying themselves, and take it all in!
PA X TO N P R I D E
“
As a modern celebrant I (Vicky Flanegan) am so thankful every day that my couples put their trust in me to tell their unique and wonderful love stories, but we know that the LGBTIQIA+ community have another layer to their stories that can be exciting yet quite often that layer involves sadness, exclusion, loneliness, and misunderstanding. So this, along with having friends and family that are a part of the LGBTIQIA+ community, meant that the day that marriage equality was made legal in Australia was one of the best days ever for me both personally and as a celebrant, I loved that the focus of marriage shifted, with the true meaning of marriage being highlighted. It’s between two humans that love each not just two people of specific genders. As this significant Australian anniversary rolled around for the 4th amazing year in a row, I wanted to create a shoot that celebrated the fabulously fun side of my couples and create something we could all be ultra proud of. So I approached my like minded colleague and award-winning stationer and stylist, Jenna Collier from Wonderland Invites with my idea. As cishet women, we wanted to raise up and listen to the voices of the LGBTQIA+ community, which is why we were so supportive of everyone’s craft and encouraged suppliers to play to their own creativity. We wanted everyone to own the narrative. So with this in mind, Jenna agreed that it was a wonderful idea and when we were looking at suppliers, we wanted to collaborate with for the styled shoot to be released on the anniversary of marriage equality, we deliberately approached suppliers that are members of the LGBTIQIA+ community or whose values strongly aligned with our own. The two models we chose were a real-life couple of mine that I married early last year and before I recited the Legal Monitum within their ceremony, that of course changed to include ‘two people’ instead of ‘a man and woman’ on the 7th of December 2017 I said this: “There is so much significance to the words I am about to say… in addition to the incredibly important change to the legal meaning of marriage in Australia that took place about three and half years ago, which now encompasses equality and inclusivity, there were also some powerful moments and milestones in Corey and Adam’s lives and their relationship which coincided during this time that these beautiful humans shared with me. Thank you so much for sharing that with me.” Because Corey and so many others I know and have met through my work came out around that time. It was such a significant milestone in their lives and the lives of so many since so I wanted to celebrate everything about them and enhance their own uniqueness. Everything we did in the shoot included Corey and Adam’s input and their consent so that they felt utterly comfortable, and we all had a hoot! The day in itself was as magical as every wedding that had occurred since the legislative change. The shoot celebrated how far we’ve come since the marriage equality bill passed in 2017
THE STYLE TEAM _________________ Bud Vases - Memory Lane Adelaide and Stem Haus Cake - Cakes By The Cooks Cape - Couture Love Madness Couple - Adam W @wittyinstaspam and Corey Baker @corey_baker92 Crowns - Ael Este A’El Este DJ - Choons and Moovs Dogs @abbey_and_caspey__ Floral Design - Vulture Violet Studio Hair Team - Her On Partridge Hire and Tableware - White Marquee Makeup Team - S Smith Artistry Pet Care - Veils & Tails Photography - Jewel Chenoweth Photography Planning and Marriage Celebrant - Vicky Flanegan Celebrant Planning, Styling, Coordination & Stationery - Wonderland Invites Plinths, Blocks, Arbour - Memory Lane Adelaide Rings - Cassandra Mamone Signage - The Ivory Scribe Sparklers - Venue Productions Suits - Oscar Hunt Weddings Venue - Paxton Wines Videography - APWV Alexandra Pratt Wedding Videography
Congratulations
SOPHIE & MELANIE 23.10.21 SA
“
We didn’t have a wedding theme. We wanted a fun, easy going, low-key wedding, with delicious beer!
Sophie Elder and Melanie Pierides met through Tinder: “Mel was my first ever Tinder date! We first met up at The Wheatsheaf Hotel in Thebarton in October 2018.” “Mel proposed at my birthday BBQ in January 2020. We were surrounded by family and friends (who were all surprisingly punctual as Mel had let them in on her little secret). Mel gave a wonderful birthday speech that turned into a proposal. She got down on one knee and surprised me with a ring! Mel then performed a beautiful acoustic song for me (after I had said ‘Yes’… actually I think my exact words were ‘Aw, go on then!’).” “There were so many wedding highlights but if we had to pick, then Mel’s favourite moment was when the double rainbow appeared above the venue and my favourite part was when Mel played electric guitar with her band in the evening! We highly recommend The Smiling Samoyed for anyone getting married in SA! They were so accommodating and very reasonably priced. They did a brilliant job all round and we had such a fabulous day.” “Our advice for other couples planning their wedding is to research the locations for your photos. We originally took the relaxed attitude ‘as long as there are memories of the day, the scenery doesn’t matter too much’. Our photographer, Jennie, knew better and went on a trip to the venue without us to take a closer look at the surrounding areas. We were incredibly fortunate that our photographers went above and beyond in finding such beautiful locations.” “We are planning a trip around Europe and to the UK to visit friends and family next year.”
SOPHIE & MELANIE’S WEDDING CREW _____________________________________ Photography
OLIVERS REEF CREATIVE
www.instagram.com/oliversreef_creative www.facebook.com/oliversreefcreative jennie@oliversreef.com.au
Ceremony and Reception
SMILING SAMOYED BREWERY www.smilingsamoyed.com.au
karen@smilingsamoyed.com.au Accommodation - Watson Park, Yankalilla Attire - Jenny & Gerry’s Bridal House, Carla Zampatti and Karen Berrington (Alterations) Cake - Tealicious Cakes Cake Topper - Cake Flourish Co. Favours - a collection sourced from Etsy, Ebay and Amazon Florals - Myponga Flower Stall Hair - Deni Cooper Jewellery - Family pearls and Etsy Makeup - Madison Pike (family friend) Marriage Celebrant - Kerry Sutton Music - Baby Mo, Toby Brandenburg and The Skeleton Club Stationery and Invitations - DIY Canva and Vistaprint Transport - Coach Hire Videography - Typeface Productions
“
We love our photos so much and want to encourage couples to take time with them, even though on the day you may feel in a rush to get back to everyone at the reception!
Congratulations
IANUK & ALETA 14.5.21 QLD
“
We are thrilled to announce that we are expecting our first baby in September 2022. We are so happy to be able to share our happy news with our friends in this magazine
Ianuk Athien and Aleta Hayes met through Tinder. Ianuk had planned the perfect proposal. “It was going to be in Switzerland in June 2020, overlooking the lake from the hotel balcony during breakfast. Of course Covid happened... so I brought the date forward because I didn’t want to wait any longer! I planned for us to go away to Maroochydore on the Sunshine Coast for the weekend. We stayed in a high-rise apartment that overlooked the beach. We had dinner on the balcony - Betty’s Burgers, which was what we had on our first date. After dinner, I knelt down next to Aleta and popped the question.” “We had a rustic/country wedding theme which fitted in with our personalities and interests. We have both always dreamt of having a wedding on a big, beautiful property. Initially we were hosting the wedding at Aleta’s parents’ house until we saw a friend share a post about Praise Mountain Farm. We had a look at the venue and immediately fell in love with it! There were so many ceremony location options. We decided to get married under the gorgeous tree because that was also one of our dreams... to get married under a big tree with fairy lights! They allowed us to go pretty much anywhere on the property for our photos and as we had our ute, we were able to go to the top of the property where an old water tank was located. It gave us great landscape portraits with a real country theme.” “Our advice to others is to try to plan in advance which makes everything easier as the big day gets closer. Communicate all your ideas and work together. Don’t make choices based on what you think other people will like - just decide what you both like. Find a wedding venue that listens to what you really want with hosts that make you feel really special. Get dance lessons even if you think you can dance (haha) and find an amazing celebrant.” “We spent a few days post wedding in Samford and in February 2022 we finally headed off on our big three-week honeymoon trip around Tasmania.”
IANUK & ALETA’S WEDDING CREW _____________________________________ Ceremony and Reception
PRAISE MOUNTAIN FARM www.praisemountainfarm.com
praisemountainfarm@outlook.com Alcohol - Kombi Keg Attire - Sugar & Spice (Aleta’s dress), Myer (Ianuk’s blazer and blouse), Network 4 (Ianuk’s pants) Cake - Kelly Summerhayes (cake artist and a friend) Catering - Farmer Brown’s Pizzas (main dishes), My Alter Ego Catering (grazing table) Favours - Kelly Summerhayes and Ianuk’s aunty who lives in Spain Florals - DIY with flowers from Brisbane Flower Market (bridesmaids bouquets and table florals), Flower Lovers (Aleta’s bouquet and Ianuk’s buttonhole wedding flowers) Hair and Makeup - Blush’d Brides Invitations and Stationery - Vistaprint Jewellery - Ultimate Jewellery (Aleta’s ring and bouquet charm) Marriage Celebrant - Anna Staines Music - Ianuk’s brother DJ’d at the reception Photo Booth - Snaptured Photography and Videography - By the Pauls Styling - Vicki from Praise Mountain Farm helped with styling. Ianuk and Aleta made the welcome board and the heart-shaped confetti which was made from leaves. Transport - Kombi Creations
“
Our many highlights included seeing each other at the ceremony in our wedding outfits and having our dogs in the ceremony and at the venue. Seeing our bridesmaids sitting in the back of the ute to go up the hill for photos (a steep 4x4 track) was very funny for everyone! And after all the practice, we nailed our first dance! Our celebrant was amazing and hilarious.
Congratulations
DAVE & MARK A PERFECT PROPOSAL 21.12.21 QLD
“
The 21st is ‘our thing’! We went on our first date on 21st January and got together a month later on 21st February. We got engaged on 21st December 2021, the Summer Equinox in the southern hemisphere and plan to marry on 21st June 2024, the Summer Equinox in the northern hemisphere. We will likely get married in Split, Croatia, a historical Adriatic seaside beach town with chill vibes.
Dave Nolan and Mark Lord met at a college house party through friends and matched on Tinder six years later. “Being a big romantic, Dave set up the proposal and organised a Vintage Picnic. He had asked Edwina, the photographer, to hide in the bushes to capture every moment.” Dave shares, “It was the only time I have ever surprised Mark and I managed to pull it off without his detective intuition catching me out. What makes it more glorifying is Mark said I could never surprise him for a proposal so it was a case of ‘challenge accepted’. Mark actually noticed Edwina in the bushes and said, ‘Dave, there’s a woman hovering over there in the bushes’, but got no response from me so he let it go. We shared a picnic and bottle of vino and I then asked Mark to remove the blanket on the sign. He was a bit slow to move so I got up and then ‘dirtied the knee’ and asked Mark to read the sign which read: ‘Mark, will you marry me?’ As he says himself, he may have blacked out for a moment with the nerves as he doesn’t recall saying ‘yes’, but I can confirm he did! We kissed and then realised we had attracted a cheering crowd of 30+ onlookers who were either walking by or training in the park. Mark’s legs then gave way and he proceeded to polish off the bottle of Sauv Blanc! We finished up watching the Brisbane sunset and having professional photos taken by Edwina.” __________________________________________________________________________________________ Photography
EKP STUDIOS
hello@ekpstudios.com www.ekpstudios.com Engagement Ring
XENNOX DIAMONDS
info@xennoxdiamonds.com.au www.xennoxdiamonds.com.au
Styling - Vintage Picnic Company
Congratulations
MADDY & JOS 29.1.22 VIC
“
We had previously lived in London for a couple of years and when we went back for a holiday, Jos took me to Hampstead Heath, one of our favourite places. She proposed to me while we were enjoying a surprisingly sunny London day on the grass with scones and coffee.
Maddy and Jos met through Maddy’s best friend, who is Jos’s cousin. The wedding date was set after two failed attempts due to the pandemic - one in 2020 and another in 2021. “We didn’t have a specific theme. We were just aiming for simple and fun! Our wedding day highlight was dancing up a storm at the reception.” “Our advice to other couples planning a wedding is if possible, try not to get married during a pandemic!” “We had been hoping for a honeymoon in Greece but ended up with Stradbroke Island in Queensland due to the pandemic. It was a lovely second choice though.”
MADDY & JOS’S WEDDING CREW ___________________________________ Photography
ELISE KAPELLER PHOTOGRAPHY www.elisekapellerphotography.com
elise@elisekapellerphotography.com.au Ceremony, Reception and Accommodation
OLINDA YARRA ESTATE www.olindayarra.com.au
events@olindayarra.com.au Attire - Anna Campbell (Jos), Limor Rosen (Maddy) Cake - A friend made exquisite cupcakes Catering - Edge Hospitality Florals - DIY Hair and Makeup - Makeup by Inez Marriage Celebrant - Alison Saunders Celebrant Music - DIY Spotify Styling - Olinda Yarra Estate and DIY Videography - Allure Productions
Congratulations
JASON & DAVID 10.12.21 QLD
“
We chose a ‘V’ shaped aisle as it was important to us to both enter at the same time as equals and to meet together before the celebrant.
Jason Duffy and David White met the traditional way! “We met at the pub back in 2011. I was attending a friend’s wedding and afterwards we all went to Brisbane city to meet up with other friends who were at The Victory, an iconic pub in the heart of the CBD. We were introduced by mutual friends and without me knowing, David asked my friend for my number and we started texting back and forth the next day.” Jason describes the proposal in 2016. “We were celebrating five years being together with a two week cruise around New Zealand. David proposed the night we were docked in Wellington - the world’s most southern capital city - at sunset on the top bow of the ship! It was formal night and we both suited up looking our best for dinner. David took me up to the top deck instead of the dining room ‘to watch the sunset’ and just as the sky began to change colour, he asked me to marry him.” “Our wedding was held on our 10 year anniversary. Originally we were planning to elope in Iceland at the world’s most northern capital city (the opposite to where we were engaged) but with the world we live in now, we decided to keep it in Queensland and headed north to The Whitsundays instead. David grew up in Airlie Beach and worked on some of the islands, so we decided on the InterContinental Hayman Island Resort as we both had not been there before and it was the perfect location for our summer sunset theme.” “Our highlights were definitely the location and the intimacy of eloping. The resort was incredible, not only picturesque but the service was beyond exceptional. The sunset was stunning and the aisle decorations were perfect for the two of us. We had chosen a few meaningful songs for the ceremony and with just the celebrant, photographer and wedding coordinator present, it was really personal and all about us.” “Our advice for other couples planning a wedding is to choose a location that is all-inclusive. The InterContinental Hayman Island Resort was amazing. They organised the flowers, music, venue decorations and almost everything else! It was very stress-free and romantic with just the two of us enjoying the island alone. We spent two nights on Hayman Island and then onto Reefsuites Underwater Hotel on the Great Barrier Reef for one night where we slept underwater, which was incredible. We then spent another four nights at an adults only resort on Hamilton island, so a week all up of tropical island bliss!”
JASON & DAVID’S WEDDING CREW __________________________________ Marriage Celebrant
THE SAILING CELEBRANT
www.thesailingcelebrant.com.au
donna@thesailingcelebrant.com.au Attire - Tarocash Ceremony, Reception and Accommodation - InterContinental Hayman Island Resort Florals - Sofi and Flora Hair - Whiskey Barbers Photography - The Lost And Wild Rings - David Parums Design
“
We chose a yellow and blue colour theme. They are our favourite colours and match the sand and ocean. We coordinated with our linen suits, shoes and flowers.
Congratulations
SHANNEN & CAITLIN 12.6.21 NSW
“
Our wedding theme was Bohemian Romance with a Vintage Vibe.
Shannen and Caitlin Fuller-Rowe chose to host their wedding day at the gorgeous Stanley Park, located close to Newcastle. Their colour palette was a beautiful mix of beige, tan and rust with accents of blush pink, mulberry and pops of coral red. Organic textures such as brown timber and linen added a softness and warmth to the venue. They really love a bohemian style with an eclectic, vintage vibe and were wanting to incorporate a touch of native florals. A mixture of beautiful festoon lighting along with some fairy lights and the gorgeous open fire, ensured guests had a warm and inviting place to mingle as the day flowed into the night. Family and friends were at the heart of their desire for their celebration and the styling was reflective of them as a couple.
SHANNEN & CAITLIN’S WEDDING CREW _______________________________________ Catering
AMANDA DOUGLASS CATERING www.amandascatering.com.au
amanda@amandascatering.com.au Alcohol - Boozy Suzie Caravan Bar Cake - Sweet Poison Cakes Ceremony and Reception - Stanley Park Florals - Little Wren Flowers Hair and Makeup - Chic Artistry Instant Cameras - Instant Camera Hire Invitations and Stationery - Invites by Veasna Chea Marriage Celebrant - Peter Bray Celebrant Music - Baker Boys Band Neon Sign - Custom Neon Photography - Folk and Follow Styling and Hire - Simply Seated, Pretty Pedestals, Behind The Scenes, Crab Apple, Beavis Hire Transport - Krusin Kombis
Congratulations
MELINDA & DANIELLE 17.12.21 VIC
“
Our wedding theme was ‘Dark and Light’ surrounded by the forest backdrop of the Dandenong Ranges.
Melinda Cottrell and Danielle Lansdell knew of each other for many years through playing basketball against each other. “We officially met and spoke on a football end of season trip. After not being keen on each other due to the fact that we played against one another for so many years, once we began to talk and got to know each other, we realised that we had a lot in common and actually liked one another.” “The proposal took place at Woolami Beach. At the time, gay marriage was not allowed or recognised in Australia so we simply called it ‘To promise forever to each other’. We walked along the beach and I (Melinda) began to write in the sand….’Promise Forever?’ Which Danielle then read and said ‘Yes’ with tears of happiness in her eyes. I placed the ring on her finger and then we continued with our picnic we had planned on the beach together.” “After two date changes due to Covid, we were married on 17 December 2021. We wanted the colours of the gardens at Poets Lane to burst around us and make for some beautiful photos and memories. Poets Lane offered accommodation for our guests which was just perfect. Most stayed the night of the wedding and the morning after, we had a buffet breakfast at Marybrooke Manor for everyone to attend before finishing up the celebrations. During the wedding ceremony and reception you don’t get to speak to absolutely everyone. At the breakfast, we had a chance to catch up and talk to everyone while also reminiscing about the wedding and happy times.” “Our advice for other couples planning their wedding is to always have an open mind in regard to date changes, guests not being able to attend and the amount of organising that is involved. Make sure you are both happy with all decisions made and don’t let too many others sway your choices. Take a deep breath when stress levels are high and enjoy organising what will be the best day of your lives together.” “We didn’t have a honeymoon due to Covid restrictions but spent a few nights away in Melbourne pampering ourselves in hotels and discovering hidden bars in the city.”
MELINDA & DANIELLE’S WEDDING CREW ________________________________________ Marriage Celebrant
MARRY ME HELLEY
www.marrymehelleyweddingceremonies.com.au marrymehelley@gmail.com
Accessories - borrowed from grandparents Attire - Luv Bridal (Moonie Ponds), Ferrari Formal Wear & Bridal (Mitcham), Tarocash (Knox), Her Tuxedo (USA Store) Bridal Party Gifts - Giftware Direct Cake - Jennifer Annes Cakes Ceremony, Reception, Music and Accommodation - Poets Lane, Sherbrooke Dress Alterations - Christine Kay Favours - Personalised Favours Florals - Flower Head Events Flower Girl Dress and Bride’s Shoes - JJ House Hair - Alisha Christie (Danielle), Jemima Leanne Artistry (Melinda) Makeup - Teighan Lee Hair & Makeup (Danielle), Jemima Leanne Artistry (Melinda) Photo Booth - Et Cetera Photography and Videography - MEO Weddings Ring Bearer Suit - Ollies Place Stationery and Invitations - Very Inviting Transport - Dr ROD - Hot Rod Hire
“
Our highlights were being surrounded by family and friends after not seeing some for over two years due to Covid restrictions. Also just having a day full of happiness and love. No hiccups and everything just went perfectly. Being able to have our three year old son involved in the wedding as ring bearer was something very special to us.
Congratulations
DAVID & CHRIS 4.7.21 QLD
“
Our wedding theme was Wizarding World. I David) am a Harry Potter Fan and I never do a party without a theme!
David Austin and Chris Greenhill met at a nightclub, many moons ago, called Options. “I had been asking Chris to get married since the Plebiscite. Chris kept saying ‘No, it costs too much. We’ve been together for 20 years, why do we need to get married?’ In February 2020, Chris and I were in ‘Blithe Spirit’, produced by Ipswich Little Theatre. Chris was the Assistant Director and performed the part of Dr. Bradman. The date was 29 February and when we walked into the theatre, one of the cast asked us, ‘When are you two getting married?’ I replied, ‘Ask Chris’ and went off to get changed. When I was backstage (as I wasn’t onstage for very long), I was sitting next to the Director of the show, Kate Mallory, who was getting married in 2021. I asked her how she found the place where she wanted to get married. Kate said she typed in words that described her wedding and many different venues popped up. We typed in ‘Wizarding World’, ‘Church Venue’, ‘Brisbane’ and High Church popped up. I knew that was the place I wanted. As Kate and I were talking about it, Chris came over and asked what we were doing. I told him that I had found the perfect place for the wedding I am not having! He walked off then came back five minutes later and said, ‘How about the June/July holidays as it won’t be too hot or too cold?’ I looked at him, very surprised and said to Kate, ‘You’re the witness’ and then asked, ‘Chris, will you marry me?’. He replied, ‘Of course I will. I’ll just turn up.’” “Our original wedding date was Saturday, 3 July 2021 but we had to change it due to Covid to Sunday, 4 July. As women always say they want to feel like a Princess, I wanted to feel like a Prince. So I designed and made our jackets and sashes and we were Hufflepuff Princes. I got the Hufflepuff and Hogwart Crests from The Store of Requirement at Samford Village. My lovely friend Harriet Jackson made cheesecakes for us. There were six in total. A Hufflepuff Yellow Passionfruit, Slytherin Green Lime, Ravenclaw Blue Blueberry, Gryffindor Red Strawberry and two Caramel Cheesecakes; all gluten free and vegan. I designed and made the stationery and invitations. Our favours were Wands made by Mel. I found her on facebook Marketplace. I typed in ‘Harry Potter Wands’ and there was Mel and even better, she was three suburbs away! My beautiful friend Tracey Wells did our hair for us. I had worked with her for many years. I did the makeup for the ladies in the wedding party as I am a makeup artist and hairdresser. My wedding day highlight was saying ‘I Do’ with the man I love so much.” “Our advice for other couples planning their wedding is it’s your wedding and nobody else’s. And just because a person is ‘biological family’ doesn’t give them the Golden Ticket to the event. The people at our wedding were people that have been family to us throughout our years together. Use your human resources to source the things you want for your wedding. You’ll be amazed what your friends know and can find out for you. Look locally. The longest trip I took was Stamford Village. As the saying goes, ‘Sometimes you don’t need to look any further than your nose’.” “Our original honeymoon plan was to go to Sweden to visit Chris’s extended family, but Covid stopped that. We ended up being Tourists in our own capital city of Brisbane and had so much fun.”
DAVID & CHRIS’S WEDDING CREW _________________________________ AIMEE CATT PHOTOGRAPHY www.aimeecatt.com
hello@aimeecatt.com
www.instagram.com/aimeecattweddings Accommodation - Mantra on Queen Catering - Pure Catering Ceremony and Reception - High Church Jewellery - Prouds the Jewellers Ipswich (wedding bands) Marriage Celebrant - Peter Grant Music - ST JOHN Transport - Events Limousine
“
We had our guests do ‘What House are You?’ on the Wizarding World website and they were asked to dress in their House colours. It was so wonderful to see our guests in different colours (which was also a nod to the gay flag) and to see them getting into the spirit of the theme.
Congratulations
SARAH & KATE 29.01.22 SA
“
Our wedding theme was smart yet casual, relaxed and vibrant. White florals, candles and grog!
“
We wanted to have our best friend Dayle marry us, so about eight months ago after a few drinks, I put it to Dayle and the next day she went and got certified. For a course that is done within a year, she completed it within seven months. Having her stand up next to us was absolutely amazing and really made our day special.
Sarah Neave met Kate Tucker on Tinder. “It was the first time I (Sarah) had been on. We both swiped right and then Kate asked me out. Firstly, Kate suggested Betty’s Burgers and my first thought was, ‘How on earth am I going to eat a huge burger like a lady and not get it everywhere?’ How unattractive for a first date! We ended up going to the Belgium Beer Café in Adelaide. We were both sweating like you wouldn’t believe. I had to have a few beers before I left home! When I arrived, there she was sitting in the sun, having a ‘coldie’ and looking as beautiful as ever. We had a great night and have been inseparable ever since.” “Five months after we met, Kate proposed to me. Most people thought that it was very fast, but most lesbians do move fast in relationships, so we didn’t care. It was at the Oaks Stamford Grand in Glenelg. Kate organised it all, from flowers and candles to dinner and organising my transport there. She met me out the front and walked me up to the hotel room. I walked in the door and there were candles everywhere, balloons hanging from the ceiling and rose petals all over the bed. She got down on one knee and asked me the question and I said ‘Yes’. I couldn’t have said yes fast enough. Kate was very much relieved to the point where she forgot to put the ring on my finger… so I did!” “One of my (Sarah) highlights was having all my family coming from all over Australia to help me celebrate. It was touch and go there with Covid. I am very close with my family and having them there was very special to me. Another highlight was being able to have my daughter Ella (from my first marriage) with me. Kate and I share 50/50 care with her other mother and it was her weekend. She dropped her off to us for the day and night, so she was able to be a part of our special day.” “Kate: Like my Wife said, the lead up to the wedding was quite stressful in terms of Covid restrictions and having to change plans a few times, however the actual day was super relaxed and easy. Getting ready with all the girls and running amuck was really fun with champagne and platters. The best part of the day though was getting the amazing gift of Sarah becoming my wife. Doing the photos together was also a highlight of mine.” “The team from Set Your Scene styled the ceremony and reception areas to perfection complemented by florals from Pretty Petals Adelaide. Courtney, the Functions Manager at Ellenika Restaurant liaised with the suppliers, set the menu and helped to make it a wonderfully fulfilling night.” “Our advice for other couples planning their wedding is don’t expect it to go exactly to plan – especially in this world at the moment. Things will come up and change at the last minute, however if you stay calm and work through it together, it will always sort itself out.” “We spent our honeymoon in Port Douglas. It was beautiful. It started off stressful when our flight was cancelled and we had to change airlines. The weather was very humid but the place we stayed was amazing. We spent five days there and one night in Cairns as again, our flight was cancelled. We were put up in a hotel room with a view, so we were not complaining.”
SARAH & KATE’S WEDDING CREW _________________________________ Styling - Ceremony and Reception
SET YOUR SCENE
www.setyourscene.com.au
info@setyourscene.com.au Accommodation - Stamford Grand Adelaide Hotel Attire - Adelaide Bridal Emporium, Knightsman Bespoke Tailors Cake - Sugar and Spice Cakes Ceremony - Glenelg Golf Club Florals - Pretty Petals Adelaide Hair - Leisa Daniell Hair Stylist Makeup - Makeup by Elise Cook Marriage Celebrant - Dayle Cuthbertson Photography - Davish Photography Reception - Ellenika Restaurant
Congratulations
GILLIAN & JULIE 18.11.21 VIC
“
Instead of walking down the aisle, Jules and the kids danced down it to Guns n Roses ‘Sweet Child of Mine’... it made for quite the entrance!
Gillian McDermott and Julie Van Belkom met online: “Technically we met online, but our first in-person meet-up was at a bar in Richmond eight months before marriage equality was realised in Australia. We immediately clicked and talked for hours about anything and everything. Jules laughed at all my jokes, which I thought was awesome. She waited about an hour after the end of that date to line me up for a second.” “Jules proposed to me on the two-year anniversary of our first date in Richmond and it was epically romantic. I had no idea what she had planned. I knew she’d planned a day and night in the city for us to celebrate our anniversary and I was just along for the ride. The day started at the bar where we first met. After a couple of drinks, we continued into the CBD and checked into Adelphi Hotel. They’d arranged rose petals in the shape of a heart on our bed and champagne chilling in our room and they seemed really excited to have us there. (I suspect now they were in on the secret.) Adelphi have a glass-bottomed rooftop pool that hangs out over Flinders Lane, so we had a swim before getting pretty and making our way down to Southbank. From across the Yarra, a gondola appeared bearing roses and champagne and we boarded for a beautiful sunset ride down the river. It was then that Jules pulled out a gorgeous ring and popped the question. I said ‘Yes’ (obviously!) and Jules properly relaxed for the first time that day! We made our way back to our hotel and as night set in, we finished off that perfect, epic day with a delicious dinner at Ezard. I am still in awe of the effort Jules made to make me feel that special. It remains the most amazing thing anyone has ever done for me.” “From the start, we really just wanted a wedding that was ‘us’. We had to reschedule our day five times due to Covid restrictions, lockdowns and border closures so in the end it was a much smaller ceremony than we’d first planned. Our bigger reception party is set for later this year. We got a lot of inspiration from our chosen venue – a beautifully unique, warm and welcoming place in Warburton called Projekt 3488. It has an amazing garden and outdoor deck with views of the surrounding mountains and hundreds of sparkling tea light candles, moody lighting and alternative décor inside. We’re returning to Projekt 3488 for our reception party in Winter when it’ll be decked out with indoor fireplaces and outdoor firepits, and we can’t wait!” “Our advice for other couples planning their wedding is to just go with what you like and don’t worry about what ‘most people do’. Also, make sure you have the best people you know around you (even if those people are your puppies) and don’t sweat the small stuff.”
GILLIAN & JULIE’S WEDDING CREW ___________________________________ Accommodation - Bed & Bark Attire - My dress was made by CocoMelody and was beaded by my best mate (and incredible artist) Lauren, which took it to another level! Julie’s suit was made by Isadora Nim. Ceremony and Reception - Projekt 3488, Warburton Hair and Makeup - Blushin Brides Marriage Celebrant - Antonia Horozides (our friend) Photography - Love is Sweet Wedding Photography
“
Technically, we honeymooned before we got married. After rescheduling the day five times, we ended up just taking the opportunity when it came up! We spent two weeks road-tripping in Victoria – the Otways, Port Fairy and Daylesford. It was two awesome weeks of appreciating nature and getting back to simple things like reading books and taking long walks.
Congratulations
CAROLINE & ASH QLD
“
I arranged with Ash’s boss to pick her up early from work. We drove to the Marriott on the Gold Coast and indulged in a couple’s spa treatment. After the massage Ash thought we were going home, but I surprised her with a room for the night. I had my mum and brother come in a few hours earlier to set the room up with rose petals, fairy lights and champagne. As soon as we entered the room she knew something was up! I dropped to one knee and she burst into tears. We captured it all on a go pro which had been set up in the corner. It was the only time I have ever been able to pull off a surprise!
Caroline and Ash met at a water polo competition on the Gold Coast (Ash as a Referee, Caroline was playing). “During the tournament, I remember glancing over at Ash as she was telling a story on the other side of the pool. She was commanding the attention of those around her and they all erupted in laughter. Her smile was infectious. It wasn’t until the end of the tournament that we actually met at McDonalds in Broadbeach. I approached Ash and convinced her that a cool DJ was playing at the Platinum Nightclub and that she should come in for a dance with the rest of the water polo crew. Despite being ready to call it a night, Ash decided she had one more dance left in her. Little did we know, that was the start of something special.” Ash returned home to Sydney the next day and so began months of phone calls, texts and face times. “Despite living over 1000km away from each other, those phone calls quickly became the highlight of our day. When Covid hit and borders were closed, Ash made the courageous decision to move to the Gold Coast and we have been happily living with our baby girl ’Tilly’ (labradoodle) ever since.” “We have set our wedding date - 29 April 2023. We want something low-key and minimalist to give us the opportunity to have fun! We have chosen a rustic vibe, nothing too fancy. Ceremony will be on a farming property and reception at a large rustic corrugated iron hall. I cannot wait to marry my best friend and start our lives as wife and wife!” Photography - Jasmine Johnston Photographer
@djdollyllama @beckygbeaver Photos courtesy Masterpieces Photography + Video
SAME SAME WEDDINGS EXPO Brisbane Powerhouse - 2021 Highlights hosted by the publishers of Brisbane Weddings Magazine and Same Same Weddings Magazine
@djdollyllama @beckygbeaver @beckygbeaver @djdollyllama
@samesameweddingsexpo @samesameweddingsmagazine @brisbaneweddingsmagazine
MASTHEAD TEXT WHITE
MASTHEAD TEXT BLACK
MASTHEAD TEXT BLACK
MASTHEAD TEXT WHITE
2 018 L A U N C H E D I T I O N
LOVE IS LOVE TEXT
FO U R T H EDITION 2019 S E C O N D E D I T I O N 2 018
MASTHEAD TEXT BLACK
LOVE IS LOVE TEXT
HEAD WITH BANNER MASTHEAD WITH BANNER
LOVE IS LOVE TEXT
MASTHEAD TEXT WHITE
MASTHEAD TEXT WHITE
MASTHEAD TEXT BLACK
MASTHEAD TEXT BLACK
F I F TH E D ITI O N 2 0 2 0
LOVE IS LOVE TEXT
AU ST R A LI A’ S FI R ST S AM E S E X W E D D I N G MAGA ZI N E
AU ST R A LI A’ S FI R ST S AM E S E X W E D D I N G MAGA ZI N E
AU ST R A LI A’ S FI R ST S AM E S E X W E D D I N G MAGA ZI N E
SIXTH EDITION 2020
E I G H T H E D IT I O N 2 0 2 1
SEVENTH EDITION 2021
LOVE IS LOVE TEXT
AU ST R A LI A’ S FI R ST S AM E S E X W E D D I N G MAGA ZI N E
AUSTR ALIA’ S FI RST SAME S EX W ED DI NG MAGAZI N E
AUSTR ALIA’ S FI RST SAME S EX W ED DI NG MAGAZI N E
AU ST R A LI A’ S FI R ST S AM E S E X W E D D I N G MAGA ZI N E
1.73M+ VIEWS over 8 editions (as at March 2022)
AUSTRALIA’S FIRST SAME SEX WEDDING MAGAZINE EVERY EDITION FREE TO ENJOY ONLINE
www.issuu.com + www.paddingtonpublications.com.au
SAME SAME WEDDINGS MAGAZINE
LIKE + FOLLOW www.facebook.com/samesameweddingsmagazine www.instagram.com/samesameweddingsmagazine NEXT EDITION ONLINE SEPTEMBER 2022 Advertising + Submissions julz@paddingtonpublications.com.au
Front Cover Couple
DREW & ADRIAN photo: The White Tree
WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE FEATURED IN SAME SAME WEDDINGS MAGAZINE? Tenth Edition SAME SAME WEDDINGS MAGAZINE Online September 2022 REAL WEDDING SUBMISSIONS STYLED SHOOT SUBMISSIONS ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES
Julz Fullerton, Sales & Marketing Manager 0439 811 221 julz@paddingtonpublications.com.au
STAY SOCIAL
www.facebook.com/samesameweddingsmagazine www.facebook.com/samesameweddingsexpo
www.instagram.com/samesameweddingsmagazine www.instagram.com/samesameweddingsexpo