Ruffles & Cake Edition 1 | Autumn

edition 1 / autumn REAL WEDDINGS

: CLEVER IDEAS : VISUAL INSPIR ATION

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he said/ she said

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52 feature interview:

claire connell

contents edition 1 / autumn

regular

regular

regular

EDITORS NOTES

WHAT’S TRENDING

LOCAL LIKES

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feature

inspiration

interview

ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE

WEDDING STYLE

KIMMY HOGAN

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beauty

real wedding

real wedding

BACKYARD WEDDING

PETE & TAMMY

NICK & KIMMY

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destination wedding

honeymoon

CLINT & LIS

MEGAN & AIDAN

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Savanah PRO DUC TION & SALE S MAN AGE R

hello welcome to our first edition.

Many months ago, we had an idea. What if we created a wedding magazine? Something that Townsville had yet to see. We wanted to fill it with beautiful weddings, hints and tips, a touch of DIY and most importantly, showcase all the vendors this region really has to offer.

Well, here she is, Ladies and Gentlemen. The first ever edition of Ruffles and Cake.

Our aim is to shine the light on some of the amazing talent you’ll find right here and in our quest to bring you such we have met some amazing people. Our interviews with Kimmy Hogan and Claire Connell prove that you don’t have to be ‘big city’ to have style and we were left in awe, not only their stylish selves, but also of their stellar careers.

We are all about bringing you real weddings, clever ideas, visual inspiration and a touch of lifestyle. We will endeavor to bring you the best of what our region has on offer, along with a few national and international suppliers to mix it up!

Putting together an e-magazine takes an enormous amount of time and energy, and we are thrilled and feel so fortunate to have worked with so many wonderful and creative people. People who’ve put their support

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behind us with gusto and faith, and didn’t hesitate to sign on the dotted line when we asked if they’d like to be a part of this dream of ours. We can’t thank you all enough.

And while on the topic of thanks, a special mention must be made to our families. Thank you for your unwavering support and encouragement, and for bringing us copious amounts of coffee late into the night.

And last, but by no means least, thank you. For subscribing, for your enthusiasm and for all the messages we’ve received from you telling us how excited you are to read this.

Without further ado, get comfy, grab a drink and settle in to read the first ever edition of Ruffles & Cake. We’re off to crack open a bottle of champers…

Savan&ahSkye xx

how to interact with ruffles & cake

Take advantage of our click-and-go features throughout the magazine, allowing you to interact with us! Look for Pinterest or Facebook icons like below throughout to link directly. Try clicking our products, too.

Hovering over all areas will show you where you are able to take advantage of click-and-go!

Skye

CREATIVE DIRE CTO R

follow us

we’d love to hear from you Have feedback? Got a topic you want us to cover? Or perhaps you’re looking to advertise your business.

Email info@rufflesandcake.com.au

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REAL WEDDINGS

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: CLEVER IDEAS : VISUAL INSPIR ATION

click here to subscribe for free your online guide to everything wedding.

www.rufflesandcake.com.au REAL WEDDINGS

: CLEVER IDEAS : VISUAL INSPIR ATION

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WHAT’S TRENDING

snap happy Engagement shoots are a great opportunity to get to know your photographer before the wedding day, and are growing in popularity. With many photographers including these shoots in their wedding packages, it’s the perfect chance to get some photos to use for your thank you cards or to use as part of your wedding day décor.

Think programs, or perhaps even table numbers!

what’s trending What’s on the wedding scene, right now.

personalised cutlery Whether you’re a lover of all things vintage, or just on the look out for a unique and memorable keepsake of your day, personalised wedding cutlery is super cute and very affordable. Imprinted with meaningful words, names or wedding dates; we love their rustic, old world appeal. Head over to Memorable Weddings and Events to order.

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the refreshment stand Afternoon weddings are beautiful, dehydration is not.

Consider investing a small amount of your budget to a refreshment stand at your ceremony to keep your guests hydrated while the official proceedings take place. A few glass drink dispensers, home made lemonade, some recycled jars (popular to use as glasses) and to finish, some stripey straws should do the trick. You can hire glass drink dispensers from Sugarbuzz Dessert Tables and Lolly Buffets.

Createee yours fr HERE

save the date Sending Save the Date cards is not only a cute way of setting the tone for your day, but also a fantastic way of giving guests plenty of notice that you’ll soon be requesting the pleasure of their company at your big day. Get creative and let your personalities shine through! Use a photo of the two of you with this cute free online template design from The Wedding Chicks.

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LOCAL

stark entertainment Let’s face it…after the speeches are over and the champagne’s been served, most guests are ready to cut loose on the dance floor. Enter the all-important DJ. A DJ who knows their tunes, has all the latest hits and most importantly, can read the dance floor to ensure your guests are kept at their boogying best. Hello Stark Entertainment! Professional audio equipment, good lighting and most importantly, a killer song catalogue and these guys have got your sorted.

EMAIL enquiries@starkentertainment.com.au PHONE 0499 978 275

local likes We love local businesses - check out five of the best we’ve found this month, and don’t forget to tell them we sent you!

the macaron lady Macarons have hit the scene in a big way and with one look at these brightly coloured sweet treats you’ll see why. Imagine our delight when we came across The Macaron Lady, Townsville’s very own macaron guru! Included on your dessert table or used as a bomboniere, your guests are sure to love ‘em! With so many flavours you won’t know where to start (we’d suggest salted caramel, white chocolate or baileys are good for beginners!) you NEED to call Jodie for your very own custom order.

EMAIL themacaronlady@gmail.com PHONE 0422 450 600

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lynda ross You know how some people just have the knack for putting you at ease? Well that’s Lynda, and it’s our humble opinion that when you’re walking down the aisle to pledge an eternity to your loved one, a friendly face (aside from your hus-to-be’s) isn’t a bad thing to have looking back at you! Seriously though, this lady is your go-to if you’re having a civil ceremony (or vow renewal) and are chasing someone who’s not only experienced and ultra-professional, but can also set the tone of your day to be calm, sincere and relaxed.

EMAIL enquiries@lyndarosscelebrant.com.au PHONE 0412 963 983

www.lyndarosscelebrant.com.au

elsie & audrey Our hearts skipped a beat when we came across these gorgeous fine bone china pieces. Compiled over the years by vintage lover, Carla, her extensive (and ever growing!) collection means your entire event is covered. With hire prices starting from $2, and everything from doily bunting to crystal champagne flutes on offer, there’s never been more incentive to host a High Tea bridal shower!

photography by kristof You only have one wedding day (unless you’re Elizabeth Taylor), so choosing the right photographer is crucial. Thankfully, with people like Kristof around, it makes the task of finding said photographer a lot easier! One super smiley and affable chap, having just been married himself he gets it - the stress you’re under, the anxiety of finding the right photographer and everything in between. Packages start at $1600 and he includes a complimentary engagement portrait shoot with all wedding bookings!

EMAIL contact@photographybykristof.com PHONE 0409 615 211

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GET THE LOOK

CARD Be Mine Card Telegram Paper Goods

autumn warmth Celebrating everything autumn this edition FIND MORE AUTUMN INSPIRATION

DRESS Ladakh Stormy Lace Dress Myer SHOE Blaise wedge Novo

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OIL Trilogy Rose Hip Oil Myer

Goldgolenden goodness Goodness

eous We found this gorg ain at Twisted Tassel Ch Lovisa, Castletown!

BAG Flap over Block Bag Colette

POM POMS Tissue Pom Poms PomLove INVITATION Autumn Wedding invitation set NotableAffairs

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DIY

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the diy bomboniere A tradition dating back hundreds of years, bomboniere was originally given by way of five sugared almonds to represent health, happiness, wealth, children and long life. These days however anything goes and it’s the perfect excuse to get your DIY on!

PIN OUR HOW-TO TO YOUR BOARD

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what you’ll need 1 Homemade brownies Made by us!

2, 3, 4, 6 Love is all you need stamp, stamp pad, twine and mini pegs Typo Willows 5 Kraft Selection Kraft treat bags Spotlight

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Start by stamping each bag, one by one.

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3

4 subscribe | www.rufflesandcake.com.au

We’ve used homemade brownies, but we suggest using your favourite treat as a personal touch!

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Fold the beg neatly at the top, fasten with a peg and tie a neat bow, wrapping the twine multiple times around the top of the bag.

the product Your guests will love these sweet little treats! Nothing says thank you like some good ol’ home baking and we bet they’ll love the midnight snack!

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TOWNSVILLE, INGHAM, AYR, MISSION BEACH, CHARTERS TOWERS, AIRLIE BEACH info@flashphotobooths.com.au | 0409 599 208

www.flashphotobooths.com.au

FEATURE

hisdness e tgoo ovden Lgol

ORE WE ABSOLUTELY AD NO DI T EE THIS PHOTO! M DE & EVA INSI

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all you need is love We sat down with three inspirational Townsville couples who’ve shared their stories on weddings, family and what has kept their love alive over the decades WORDS BY BRIE MURRELL PHOTOGRAPHY BY SKYE BREE PHOTOGRAPHY

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pat & margaret Thomas (Pat) and Margaret Mahoney, both 84, celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary in April this year. Over these six decades of marriage they have become proud parents to four children and grandparents to ten grandchildren.

The two met at their local church youth group and gradually fell in love. Avoiding the traditional proposal method, they decided to get married as a mutual agreement and to this day say it was the best decision they ever made.

At their wedding, even with no traditional bridal waltz, it didn’t fault their big day as they both say the defining special moment was when they said ‘I do’ and the priest pronounced them as man and wife.

As a couple, Pat and Margaret agree their positivity and sense of humour are their favourite things about each other and over the years, they’ve discovered their secrets to a long marriage are ‘give and take’ and always being there for one another.

There is one thing they disagree on though, and that is the ultimate question of who wears the shoes. The two of them take an equal part in most decisions, but like all males, Pat thinks he does (and he most likely doesn’t) and Margaret thinks he does what he is told (and he probably does).

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married 60 years

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terry & nene When it comes to marriage, Terry and Doroles (Nene) Brown seem to know how to keep each other laughing. Parents to three and grandparents to two, Terry, 69 and Nene, 53 both favour each other’s wicked sense of humour. And it’s obvious they love a good laugh as they both say their secret to a long marriage is never shouting at each other…unless the house is on fire!

Undeniably best mates, they agree having no secrets and enjoying each other’s company sustain their romance, and when it comes to making decisions together it’s compromise all the way.

Meeting through a mutual friend while on holidays in the Philippines, Nene and Terry hit it off immediately as friends at first. It was only once Terry went back to the Philippines three months later that he courted Nene and popped the question in Manila on bended knee, with both agreeing they got along so well they had to give it a go!

Nene recalls her nerves on the day and laughs as she tells how her knees were shaking. An intimate ceremony of just 50 guests at Saint Mary’s in West End on January 22, 1983 was followed up with a livelier affair at The Stage Door Theatre James Cook Tavern and revellers danced until the wee hours.

When asked how they’ll be celebrating their next anniversary they look at each other and laugh admitting they still have to check their marriage certificate each year to get the date right. It won’t be anything too big, they insist, rather a quiet night in for two who vow that to them, everyday they’re together feels like an anniversary.

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married 30 years

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dino & eva Every day, Eva’s morning begins with a cup of coffee, made for her

by Dino before she gets out of bed. Eva says it’s the little things that count and the feeling is mutual with Dino agreeing that kindness has always been an important factor in their relationship.

After a chance meeting on a corner street in Townsville, Dino believes it was love at first sight. Their wedding followed a simple proposal, and they were married on December 10 1949 at Saint Josephs Catholic Church in front of 60 of their closest friends and family. Celebrations continued after the ceremony with cake and sandwiches, a stark contrast to today’s elaborate wedding receptions.

Dino, turning 90 this year and Eva, turning 84, both have a gleam in their eyes as they describe the most special moment from their wedding; they were together and exceptionally happy.

The key, according to Dino and Eva, to a long lasting marriage is being thoughtful and kind. Family has always been crucial and although juggling five children and work had its struggles, they always pulled together through the tough times and came out the other side smiling. Having lived in Townsville for 40 years, a change of pace was needed and they travelled to Italy to visit Dino’s brother and sister, the overseas trip now a favourite memory.

Agreeing that all decisions are made jointly when it comes to making decisions, they haven’t yet decided how they will spend their anniversary this year in December but with five children, 11 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren, you can be the occasion will be filled with a lot of love and laughter.

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married 64 years

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dino & eva

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the wedding album

pat & margaret

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INSPIRATION

finding your

wedding style WORDS BY TAM KIPPING

Townsville’s blogger, designer and stylist Tam Kipping shares with us her top 6 tips to finding your style...

“

Planning a wedding is a creative rollercoaster ride, whether you’ve been there, or are in the thick of it, you’d agree that it can be hectic. There are endless ideas floating about out there in the clouds on pinterest, google, instagram and blogs alike and the mind boggles at the possibilities. Before you know it, you’ve polished off a packet of gummy bears while pinning every possible wedding picture and your eyes are huge with excitement. Here’s my tips to stay on track...

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1. seek inspiration The first thing you need to do is seek inspiration. Make a more organised plan sitting on pinterest can snatch hours from your life and then next thing you know...BAM! Your wedding date is a week away. Your starting point will be a photo, picture from a magazine, a cute frock or a piece of fabric that will inspire all other ideas to fall into place.

outside 3. thinking the box Look outside the box and what’s familiar to you.

Boxes are only created in our minds to collect clutter and once you empty them, new ideas will come more freely. One of the cutest weddings that I’ve been to was inspired by Mexico. I can imagine lots of you are cringing at the idea, but it was tastefully done. It was still fun and edgy, but most importantly true to the couples style.

They even had a Taco van pull up out the front!

By the end of the night, all guests were happy thanks to the margaritas and were dancing the Mexican hat dance. The best part? Not one guest at the wedding would forget it! Find an interesting element like they did and make it yours.

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2. the love list Make a love list of all of the things that you and your partner truly love. Make sure you remember to include the spunk who will be standing beside you on the day - in the end, it’s about the two of you. Your love list should be made of things that are important to you.

Ensure to continually refer back to this list throughout your planning - you’ll draw ideas from it and it’s a cute reminder of the reasons why the two of you are getting hitched.

4. your fav’s What are your favourites? List your favourite scent, blooms, restaurants, songs, films, cities and hobbies and take the time to explore why.

My husband and I married at an exclusive resort in Fiji. We love to travel, the beach, surfing, diving and being surrounded by happy people - so having the Mamanuca Islands set as the backdrop for a week long celebration for thirty close friends and family was perfect for the two of us. And the Bula and big smile on every corner was the icing on the cake!

friends 5. the wedding Think about weddings of friends that you’ve enjoyed and why. What worked and what didn’t? Depending on how you roll; sometimes, simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. All you need are a few personal touches and bingobango, you have a memorable event that will have your guests talking about it for years to come.

6. the style file Create a style file by ripping out pictures from your favourite magazines (they don’t need to be wedding related). Make an event of it; invite the girls around for a wine night and get busy creating moodboards! Now you’re away and your wedding planning has begun.

Now that you have developed your personal style, you can start working on the little details. This is the fun part - it’s like searching for treasure and putting the pieces of a perfect puzzle together. It’s important not to stray off the beaten track or become overwhelmed.

Look back at pieces of inspiration in your style file, head out for a walk to clear your mind and work off those gummy bears!

Tam x

”

t u o k c e h C blog here Tam’s

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INTERVIEW

designed by love When Townsville born graphic designer Kimmy Hogan describes the night she met her husband, it plays out like a scene from a romantic comedy. . She even says it was “love at first sight”. But it’s no cliché. Kimmy is the real deal and while talking about her wedding, her blog and her business you realise that her life is all about pursuing her passions and living for the things she loves.

WORDS BY KATHERINE POWELL

“It was a Friday afternoon at the Great Northern Hotel and I spotted this guy. It was one of those things where you’re looking at each other through the crowd. We didn’t actually say hello to each other that night and after I left I kept thinking, ‘I should have just said hello!’

The next night I just happened to see him out again.

He was walking out of the club and I thought he’s a complete stranger and I don’t even know his name but I’m going to go after him. So I went out and asked him if he remembered me, which he did and we basically haven’t been apart since.”

Originally from Townsville, Kimmy and her husband Nick have lived in Melbourne and now Brisbane where she works as a full time senior designer helping to train and nurture young graphic designers. On top of that she also sells her own work on etsy.com.au. The website is

a secure online marketplace for designers and artists to showcase their original works and communicate with buyers and sellers in the one place. Kimmy says the site has been a great way to get her work out there and help people see what she’s all about.

“I always wanted to design things that people would just love and really want to put on their walls. It’s not necessarily about designing something just to sell it. I love designing for home interiors and I take inspiration from Moroccan and bohemian styles and I also love illustrative type artwork. I feel I get inspiration from everything.”

Kimmy is looking at plans to expand her business over the next few years by setting up her own website and targeting a more custom market.

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“I would really love to work with some interior designers and make custom artwork for people’s homes. At the moment I’m really focusing on making some good contacts and getting my work out there and known.”

“I think of the blog as a way for people to get that reaffirmation that yes this person is capable and they are creative. It’s more about me. I think it personalises who I am and that I’m not just a faceless etsy store. I think when people are buying something they want to know where it’s coming from.”

Kimmy, a keen amateur photographer, has also posted some amazing photos from her various overseas travels on her blog. She has been to New York, Toronto, Germany and most recently South America.

She says travel would be the biggest inspiration and influence on her work.

“When you’re travelling you’re just exposed to so many different things and it gets you to start thinking outside the square. The culture of somewhere like South America was just incredible and it has been a huge inspiration for me.”

In between building her graphic design career and travelling the world, Kimmy and Nick were married in 2011. Her background in design and her strong sense of style played a major part in the couple’s wedding.

“The plan for the wedding was very much an evolving one and I think as a designer, you find it very hard to design for yourself. Even something like our wedding invitations took about twenty attempts. I wanted everything to be custom from the invites to the save the dates, the church booklets and even the menus for the tables. I didn’t necessarily want a themed wedding that might look dated in photos but I wanted to create that Moroccan and bohemian vibe and even though everything was quite classic it still had that burst of colour and pattern.”

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The wedding was planned to take place in June at Mission Beach but five months earlier Cyclone Yasi had swept through and almost destroyed their chosen venue.

Luckily for the couple their day went according to plan and Kimmy says the main thing she learnt was not to panic. “Stuff is going to go wrong but regardless of that it’s going to be the best day of your life.”

As for married life Kimmy says her and Nick are still smitten with each other. For the first five and a half years of their relationship Nick spent a lot of time working out at the mines so they had to spend long periods of time apart.

“As soon as we got married we moved to Melbourne and he was home every single night and it was the most amazing thing ever. I still feel like we’re on a honeymoon because we get to see each other so much.

“The key for us has been to keep talking and doing sweet things for each other” Don’t just crash after your wedding. Keep the romance alive. Your wedding is awesome fun, but your marriage you’ll have forever.”

follow kimmy blog

shop

Kimmy’s amazing wall art.

Check out KIMMY’S WEDDING 96 PHOTOS ON PAGE

Kim and her sweetheart, Nick in NYC.

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VOX POP

“I only want to be with you by Dusty Springfield”

Trina, 37, Hermit Park

“Let’s stay together, the Stan Walker version.

I heard him sing it live at an event and it was goosebump stuff!”

“Songbird by Eva Cassidy ...love love love!”

Lisa, 34, Kirwan

Stevi, 29, Kirwan

we asked you:

what song did you have your first dance to?

We hit the streets to ask the questions brides are curious to know

“Heartbeat by Enrique Iglasias purely because we liked the song and didn’t want anything too sappy.”

Kellie, 31, Condon

ch! t a W rry. Our “Firework by Katie Pe the first favourite song from time we heard it.” ajong Kathy, 34, Curr

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“Let’s stay together by Al Green.

My husband sang it to me when he proposed.”

Deb, 32, Kirwan “I’d take a bullet for you by Dan Brodie.

My husband is a huge fan of his.”

Rebecca, 36, Garbutt “Come rain or come shine by Ray Charles”

Mel, 34, Gulliver

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Q&A

he said/she said Meet Kiah and Chadd...

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SKYE BREE PHOTOGRAPHY

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how we met HE SAID I went down to Airlie Beach with my cousin who was meeting his girlfriend at schoolies. I met Kiah early in the night and the rest is history.

SHE SAID It was the last night of my schoolies week and we were planning a pretty quiet night, then I met Chadd and that all went out the window! We ended up watching the sunrise as we trekked from one end of town to the other.

Kia, 25 MEDIA & PR OFFICER

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Chadd, 27 CONTRACTS ADMINISTRATOR

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our first date HE SAID Mini golf, even though it was Kiah’s choice I was quietly confident I could beat her, I did try and let her down softly though.

S HE

SAID

A casual dinner and mini golf, after I lost miserably he revealed that he is a regular golfer. We have been competing against each other ever since‌he always wins!

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our first kiss SHE SAID When we said goodnight after our first date, it was very sweet.

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HE SAID After our first date, I decided I had better make the move.

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finding the one SHE SAID I found out he had practiced tying knots in preparation for taking me fishing on a date. Fishing was my idea and it was so sweet that he wanted to impress me, that’s when I realised he was a keeper.

HE SAID I knew I’d found the one when she smiled at me in her rearview mirror after a very eventful date looking at Christmas lights and being questioned by the cops.

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our engagement HE SAID I popped the question after carrying the ring around in my pocket for two days. We were a couple of days into a month long holiday in the USA and I wanted to do it early. Christmas night in New York City was the perfect setting.

S HE

SAID

Chadd popped the question in New York city in front of the massive Christmas tree in Rockerfeller Centre. It was so festive and beautiful, and it’s a trip we had wanted to take for years which made it even more magical.

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FEATURE INTERVIEW

e r i a l C one claire DAY day ONE

STORY BY KATHERINE POWELL

Claire Connell has had a career that most of us could only dream of. As a professional stylist she has WORKED WITH Vogue and Frankie and has an extensive portfolio of fashion advertising work. In 2009 she worked with world famous photographer Annie Leibovitz on a Cate Blanchett shoot for the cover of US Vanity Fair. She was at the highpoint of her career but Claire craved a family and a more laidback lifestyle.

In 2010 she left Sydney and moved back to Townsville with her husband and we couldn’t be happier to have her back.

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Claire’s career highlight : VOGUE 2009 / Photographer - Nicole Bentley.

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“I always wanted to do something creative. As a teenager, I was obsessed with magazines and keeping up with the latest trends” “I knew of a design school in Sydney and I wanted to apply there but as an 18 year old, I wasn’t brave enough to make such a big move to somewhere so unfamiliar.”

A couple of years later, Claire and her partner Patrick eventually decided to go travelling and ended up spending two years living in London. After returning from her travels she was no longer daunted by the idea of moving to the big city and so she applied to the Whitehouse Institute of Design.

Clare was accepted and her and Patrick moved to Sydney where she completed a Degree in Design majoring in Styling and Creative Direction.

Claire excelled and was awarded a scholarship to complete her studies and graduated with a Student of the Year award.

“I ended up doing really well at university which then allowed me to approach magazines and established stylists and get some really great experience.”

Claire spent the next few years building up her portfolio and living her dream in the fiercely competitive fashion industry. She found an agent and did quite a lot of freelance work where she scored the opportunity to work on the Vanity Fair shoot and various works for Frankie and Vogue. Throughout this time Claire also styled numerous fashion advertising campaigns for the likes of Portman’s, Ojay, Hush and Mecca Cosmetics. The highlight of her career though was an independent fashion editorial for Vogue in 2009.

“That editorial was all my own work. It felt amazing to see my name credited as Fashion Editor for Vogue Australia, after a year of assisting other editors of the magazine. ”

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2009 was a massive year for Claire. It was also the year she got married.

“We were living in Sydney at the time and planning a wedding on Magnetic Island. It was often frustrating because in Sydney, there were so many great resources accessible to me but I couldn’t use them because the wedding was in Townsville. However I did try and source a lot of things from the city and bring them up with me.

I managed to find a band in Sydney and fly them up too so I kind of melded resources from the two cities together.

“I did all the styling myself and all the flowers and even though that caused me some anxiety I was happy to do it,” she says, laughing. “I knew exactly what I wanted and being able to do it all myself just made sense but it was a bit stressful being the bride and setting up all the reception tables the morning of the wedding.

“I wanted a vintage ‘garden party’ feel for the day

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and a totally muted colour palette. And because I’m such a collector I had a lot of vintage furniture and home wares that I was able to incorporate into the wedding and it worked out really nicely.”

Claire says her stand out moment from their wedding day was her husband’s speech.

“He made a really beautiful, heartfelt speech and everyone got a bit teary. Everyone was talking about it later and he’s usually such a nervous public speaker but he really pulled it off and it’s definitely the moment that sticks with me.”

Claire says the best piece of advice she could give another bride-to-be is: “Don’t get too caught up in some of the finer details. Those things go unnoticed on the day and you can get stuck on things that are really quite insignificant in the big scheme of things.”

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“It’s chaotic and a huge learning experience but it’s just amazing. I love motherhood.”

Check out CLAIRE’S AMAZIN WORK HERE

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Not long after the wedding Claire and Patrick decided to move back to Townsville to start a family.

“Moving back home was a huge decision as my career was really taking off but I really wanted a family so I put that first. People often think that styling is a very glamorous job but it’s actually really very labour intensive. It’s quite hard work. At times I have some regrets thinking maybe I did make some pretty rash decisions out of the anxiety at the time but I really wanted a slower and calmer environment to raise a family in so ultimately I’m happy with our decision.”

Since returning to Townsville Claire has become a mum and says that while nothing can prepare you for motherhood, she wouldn’t change a thing.

“It’s a whole new life. We were so insistent that we were going to stay the same and that our baby would just fit into our lifestyle. I hear so many people say that as well and it does sound easy while you’re pregnant. But the reality of it is that your whole life gets turned upside down. It’s all worth it though, it’s chaotic and a huge learning experience but it’s just amazing. I love motherhood.”

Claire believes that compromise, slowing down and making time for the little things that matter are what has helped her and her husband through their married life.

“I think especially when you’re a young family with a baby you need to remember that your partner comes

first because if you don’t have a solid relationship the family suffers anyway. A baby changes everything though and it’s hard to maintain that all the time but it is something that I strive for. In all honesty it’s really about finding the ebb and flow and getting that balance right.”

Motherhood has also changed the focus of Claire’s career. While once she was at home in the cutthroat fashion industry she now pursues her love of lifestyle photography and especially enjoys capturing shots of her family in their everyday life. Claire says her personal blog has fostered her love for photography.

“I started a personal blog after I moved back to Townsville because I felt a little bit isolated moving somewhere so small after being in the big city. The blog was a way for me to keep up that creative expression and document my life as a new mum, capturing all those first moments.”

Claire has her own website claireconnellphotography. blogspot.com and is currently working as a photographer shooting weddings, lifestyle and family shots, and, with another baby on the way, Claire says she is enjoying focusing on photography. You can rest assured this fabulously talented lady will not stay quiet for long and we can’t wait to hear what’s next for Claire.

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BEAUTY

the pretty backyard wedding Think cute white chairs and floral bunting between the clothes line. Here’s the beauty know how to create the look for your laid back wedding.

WORDS BY KIM BAKER / BOHEME BEAUTY + BODY

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skin For dewy, fresh skin, mix your foundation with some shimmer product to create a luminous look. We love BECCA Radiant Satin Skin Foundation in Buff mixed with favourite Shimmering Skin Perfector in Opal. You will literally glow as your walk down the aisle.

cheeks For a natural flush of colour, try some light (emphasis on the light) contouring with a bronzer, say, Jane Iredale’s So Bronze #2 and finish off with a soft pink blush. We used Jane Iredale’s PurePressed Blush in Whisper for a rosy glow.

eyes Keep eyes simple by using a light eye shadow and a hint of gel liner.

Kim from Boheme achieved this look with Jane Iredale Mineral Eyeshadow in Sweet Spot, along with BECCA gel liner in Romantique to make Megan’s eyes pop. Don’t forget to finish off your look with two coats of waterproof mascara!

tip: use a bright lip to complete your look!

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lips You need long wearing lip colour on your wedding day, so go for a matte finish without too much shimmer or shine. We love BECCA Ultimate Lip Colour in Amelia for a burst of colour.

Thank you to our gorgeous model Megan!

Check out AM THE TALENTED TE D TE EA CR WHO MEGAN’S LOOK!

hair

make-up

Capelli Hair Gallery PHONE 4724 5554 capellihairgallery.com.au

Boheme Beauty + Body PHONE 4724 5554 bohemebeauty.com.au

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IDEAS

operation bachelor party It is normally the best man’s job to throw the bachelor party for the groom. And the pressure is on to ensure the occasion is both memorable and original. Stuck for ideas?

We’ve got him covered.

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adrenaline bachelor Fancy a little adventure? Head on down to Airlie Beach for a day of action packed jetskiing! Hit the open water and head out to Daydream Island where you can enjoy more ocean escapades, lunch and time to chill before heading back. Why not spend the night and

Whitsunday Jetski Tours hosts Daydream Extreme Tour that includes lunch, resort pass for Daydream Island, tube rides and

hit the bars of Airlie Beach on your return?

all riding apparel. From $170 per person.

fisherman bachelor The beer’s on the ice, bait’s on the line and you and your mates are settled in on your very own luxury charter boat for an overnight reef trip to reel in a big one. Relax as the on board chef caters the highest quality meals and your catch is prepared and frozen for your return. Enjoy air-conditioned accommodation, a huge rear deck and all the best fishing gear ready for your use.

Check out Northern Conquest Charters for more info. Prices start from $370 per person for groups of 20 people.

metro bachelor Gather the boys together and have the casino come to you for a night of poker. Casual clothes are fine but for extra fun set a theme such as ‘Casino Royale’ to really get guests in the mood. Serve glasses of whiskey and finger foods along with cigars. Whether you make it the main event or the pre-night out teaser, a poker tournament makes for fun, novel and highly entertaining bachelors party entertainment.

3 hour packages from Blackjax Fun Casino which includes table, professional croupier, fun money and accessories start at $400.

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REAL WEDDINGS

: CLEVER IDEAS : VISUAL INSPIR ATION

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: CLEVER IDEAS : VISUAL INSPIR ATION

little cakes for your happy

email happycakesinfo@gmail.com phone 0438 269 878 www.happycakes.com.au

REAL WEDDING

pete & tammy

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their story Meeting at university, Pete won Tammy over with his cheeky sense of humour. Eight months later he popped the question to a delighted Tammy and the rest is history.

“He is a man that makes me laugh, who encourages me to be the best me and who I can’t wait to share every adventure of life with”.

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the dress “My dress was the first wedding dress I had ever tried on and I fell in love instantly” - TAMMY Tammy’s sisters and a few close girlfriends surprised her with breakfast and had sneakily made a bridal fitting appointment as a bit of fun. “We were very surprised to find us all crying and in love with the first dress!”

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the ceremony Tammy and Pete opted for a traditional church ceremony, holding it at St Josephs Catherdral, The Strand.

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the little touches “We wanted to create a simple, fresh and modern wedding - a true illustration of our personalities and love for one another�

And that they did. We love all the gorgeous elements that bought together their day. How cute is the Here comes the Bride sign? Find one at The Wedding Centre.

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the snaps Choosing a photographer who can capture the day exactly as you had imagined is no easy task, but Tammy and Pete struck gold with Joy from Growtograph. They absolutely love their photos, and so do we.

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the reception Tammy and Pete followed up their traditional church ceremony with a reception at The Watermark.

“The Watermark was the perfect reception venue - open space and A BEAUTIFUL view WAS EXACTLY WHAT WE WANTED TO CREATE OUR LAID BACK WEDDING CELEBRATION”

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the suppliers photographer Growtograph

cake Happy Cakes

venue The Watermark

dress Halo Bidal Sydney

suits Roger David

hair Touch of Utopia

boheme Boheme Beauty + Body

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Mmm!...

Cake

ON E IN W E LO VE TH IS EAT GR , AR UL PA RT IC W OR K TE AM HA PP Y CA KE S!

get the look pete & tammy’s wedding

HEELS Feiffer Ivory shoe Novo Shoes EARRINGS Diamante drop earrings Lovisa LIPS Mineralize Lipstick in Luxe Naturale MAC PROPS Photobooth props Mister Mustache Etsy BADGE Wedding badge search Etsy for similar BOTTLE Saphire Bottle in Amber Freedom

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REAL WEDDING

nick & kimmy

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their story Proof that sometimes you have to throw caution to the wind and follow your heart, Kimmy and Nick initially locked eyes across the crowd at the Great Northern Pub. Clapping eyes on him the following night, Kimmy wasn’t going to let the chance pass her by twice and boldly introduced herself. Five years later‌

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sticking to tradition Kimmy added a new touch to the ‘something old, something new’ traditions by stitching her great-great-grandmother’s wedding band (over 150 years old) to her bouquet.

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the little touches “The rose petals made beautiful confetti and looked great in photos.�

Bowls of white paper umbrellas greeting guests at the ceremony added a nice touch to help shield the North Queensland sun. Kimmy grabbed a bargain and scored these off eBay!

Cute idea

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the venue Kimmy and Nick said “I Do� at the beautiful Elandra Resort in Mission Beach. Having been made over in recent years it lent itself perfectly to their look.

The reception was held in a marquee on the deck, overlooking the pool, ocean and Dunk Island.

our style “I love the colourful Moroccan styling that made the day so vibrant and happy” - KIMMY These two were determined to break out of the ‘white wedding box’, but still wanted to incorporate classic elements to make sure their day didn’t feel too themed. The use of silver Moroccan lanterns, bright flowers and loads of candles gave the day a relaxed yet gorgeous elegant feel.

our style The couple were determined to break out of the white wedding box and opted to combine Moroccan elements with crisp white to avoid anything too ‘themey’ that may look dated in years to come. Lit up with lights, candles and colour, Kimmy smiles as she recalls how amazing it looked.

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the suppliers photographers Moments In Life by Janelle Strauss and Andrew Rankin

flowers & table centrepeices Flowers by Jenny Rick of Mission Beach

venue The Elandra Resort, Mission Beach

celebrant Lynda Skinner

cake Leanne Rossetto of Cakes By Design

invitations Kimmy herself!

GET THE LOOK

get the look nick & kimmy’s wedding

FLORAL Pink Orchids Malpara Florists DRESS Wedding Dress Essence Designs SCENT Calvin Klein Euphoria Blossom EDT Spray Terry White Chemist LANTERN Metal Lantern Target MIRROR Circular mirror centrepiece Wedding Works EARRINGS Clear stone teardrop earrings Diva

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tropical north hen’s party and bridal packages • visit www.tnds.com.au for full range of packages •

ph 4779 7648 www.tnds.com.au 153 charters towers rd, hermit park q 4812

tropical north DAY S PA

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YOUR DAY. YOUR WAY. CAPTURING THE MOMENTS YOU CREATE.

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email. info@skyebree.com dial. 0410 572 733

DESTINATION WEDDING

clint & lis

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their story Lis and Clint met through a mutual friend at Yellowbird Café in Melbourne and it didn’t take long for sparks to fly. As the saying goes ‘when you know, you know’ and within three weeks the couple were living together. Fast forward three years and Clint nervously popped the question whilst in a teacup at Disneyland with a stunning 1930’s engagement ring. Calling her Mum a few days later from Mexico, Lis informed her that they’d set the date and would be tying the knot in 6 weeks!

“I was pregnant with our first baby and wanted the day to take place before my bump got too big” - Lis.

Celebrity touch

his style As the drummer for Aussie band, Something for Kate, Clint ditched his usual grunge get up and looked handsome in a sharp black tux, complete with bowtie sourced while the band worked on their new album in New York.

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the ceremony Too nervous to walk down the aisle, Lis bucked tradition by standing with her groom while guests arrived. The ceremony took place at the end of the jetty with the spectacular Lake Weyba as their backdrop.

The couple broke away from tradition choosing to recite their vows to each other in private, and skipped conventional readings opting for a relaxed and informal ceremony instead.

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the outfits Steering away from the usual ‘bride’ look, and being five months pregnant, Lis found her Lisa Ho wedding dress 5 days before her wedding day!

“Of course it had to be altered, so they sent it away and I got it back the day before we flew to Noosa”.

Clint opted for a classic black tux and sourced his bow tie and pocket chief from Barney’s while the couple were staying in New York. “Very Mad Men-esque”, jokes Lis.

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Gorgeiolus s deta

the day With Lis and Clint working and holidaying in the US, Lis’s Mum organized the entire day in just six weeks, and what an amazing job she did. Not being a fan of anything too ‘weddingy’, the couple gave Lis’s Mum an ‘eclectic forest’ brief. They wanted the day to have an organic, natural feel, but not too ‘Australiana’. The venue Eumarella Shores in the Noosa Coastal Hinterland was booked for the wedding party and their guests with a weekend of celebrations planned on site.

“We had an intimate wedding, only 40 people. Everyone flew in and stayed for two nights which was wonderful”.

the advice Don’t get hung up on tradition and what you think people expect, plan the day to reflect your style and likes as a couple. Lis found her wedding ring in a Brooklyn flea market. “I brought it from a gypsy who had been married five times”, and didn’t carry a bouquet on the day... “I HAD A BOUQUET, BUT FORGOT IT”, she laughs.

the suppliers photographer Annie Jones

flowers The Ultimate Florists of Noosa

venue Eumarella Shores, Noosa Coastal Hinterland

dress Lisa Ho

suits Soho Workshop

GET THE LOOK

get the look clint & lis’s wedding

EARRINGS Square silver hook earrings Lovisa STAMP Initial stamp Stamp Couture SCENT Abode Aroma in Amber Ryland’s Mitre 10 DRESS Lisa Ho Dress Lisa Ho LOVE Word Sculpture Pillow Talk BALL Albi Moss Ball Pillow Talk CANDLE Oak Base Hurrican Freedom SIGN Wooden Mr & Mrs Sign ThePaperWalrus Etsy 154

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HONEYMOON

destination: new york & the caribbean The wedding is over and it’s finally time to kick back and relax. We checked out the happy snaps of Megan & Aidan’s honeymoon extravaganza!

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egan M &Aidan

We braved the over 45 degree heat for our first ever American sports game and it was at the Yankee’s in the Bronx! It was hot as anything but our seats were incredible!

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k New Yorrk New Yo

Being a horse lover, we took a half day tour in St Lucia to a horse ranch to take a trail ride down to an incredible beach, where we got to swim with the horses and eat fresh coconut!

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Megan and Aidan decided on a two part honeymoon, combining the action of New York with some down time in the Caribbean.

After weeks of tossing up where to stay, Megan and Aidan chose Sandals Halcyon on the Caribbean island of St Lucia for it’s ‘couples only’ romance. They also benefited from the resort being all inclusive, meaning that all meals and drinks (cocktails included!) were covered up front, creating a totally relaxing and stress free holiday... Sounds good to us!

“After drinking too much rum on the boat with snoop, we trekked up the volcano to bathe ourselves in the sulphur springs! It stunk like rotten eggs but our skin felt amazing afterwards.”

LEFT: “St Lucia in the Caribbean is all about rum, dancing & having a good time! We loved Snoop (our tour guide) that took us around St Lucia!”

n e x t iss u e

r e t n i W edition launches June 1