Ruffles & Cake | Edition 10 | June 2015

ruffles & cake EDITION 10 / JUNE 2015

FOR THOSE WHO LOVE THE TRUE CELEBRATION THAT WEDDINGS ARE ABOUT

MEET CARL A DRAKE BRINGING A TOUCH OF OLD WORLD FL AIR

CELEBRATING LOVE AND THAT DRESS / MEET OUR COVER COUPLE

MADDIE AND DAN

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03 EDITOR'S NOTES

WELCOME

__ _____ __

WE LCO M E TO I S S U E 10, F O L K S. R U FFLE S H A S H I T DO U B LE D I G I T S, AN D I'M PR E T T Y DA R N E XCIT E D A B O U T I T.

MY FAVO U R ITE THIN GS

Not only are we celebrating hitting the big one-oh, we've been already toasting to our first ever print edition published inside the Townsville Bulletin. A huge thank you goes to all of you who popped into your local newsagent and picked yourself up a copy. I would have been right there beside you, too. I was like a little kid waking up on Christmas morning; except waiting for the doors to open at the newagency, followed with a strange look from the service assistant, because a. I was way too eager for that hour of the morning to buy the paper (oh, and think awkward moment with a few hands reaching in for the same copy, but I held on) or b. I had left the house without makeup to get there as fast as I could. It was definitely up there with a highlight for me professionally and personally to hold Ruffles, something tangible, in my hands. Oh, and besides renaming elopements to 'elopments' on our print editions cover (I'll giggle about this for many, many years to come), everything was just as I'd pictured, maybe better. Onwards and upwards from here!

So, you're probably wondering why we're back to online, right? We're still a quarterly publication, and you'll see us half online; half print. Both editions equally bursting with stories and weddings so-ridiculouly-great-I-might-burst-with-excitement kind of material. This edition is just that, too.

I've felt so grateful to collaborate with some new contributors this edition, Rachel from Hunting Louise and Rebecca from Lighten Up. Rachel, an amazing designer and absolute hand lettering wonder woman, has created our free printable on page 6 - handwritten and designed from scratch, EXCLUSIVELY for you, our readers! And, if you're anything like me and completely struggling to keep grounded amoungst planning your big day, Rebecca from Lighten Up has shared with us her top tips for practising mindfulness and learning to appreciate the process.

I'm also really excited to share the story of local Carla Drake, our feature story and self confessed bowerbird, who found herself with a collection of vintage peices too good to keep to herself.

Happy reading, and cheers to us!

Cuff Earrings These beauties are in my

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That pastel and rose quartz combo! They even have a cute name; Horses and Hummingbirds Cuff Earring. Find them online at samanthawills.com

Sign love I love this saying so much, I even got it engraved on the back of a watch I gave to my fiance to celebrate our engagement. I haven't done much wedding planning, but I know this cute timber sign is definitely on the cards. Pick one up at fromtheowl.com

_____ ____ hand lettering I'm such a big fan of this

style right now, and I'm so excited we've collaborated with Rachel from Hunting Louise to give you your very own FREE downloadable poster on page 6!

Pop in a frame and hang at home as big or small as you wish, or pin it up at the office.

Find more of Rachel's prints, just like this one, online at huntinglouise.com

SKYE BREE EDITOR AND CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Connect with me

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04 CONTENTS

ANNA CAMPBELL'S 'SPIRIT' COLLECTION PAGE 10

NQ COUPLES NEW ORLEANS WEDDING PAGE 36

10

WHAT'S INSIDE PAGE 03 / EDITOR'S NOTES PAGE 06 / YOUR FREE PRINTABLE POSTER PAGE 08 / STORY / MARRIAGE VS WEDDING PAGE 10 / FASHION FEATURE PAGE 18 / HE SAID / SHE SAID

COVER COUPLE / MADDIE AND DAN

PAGE 20 / FEATURE STORY / MEET CARL A DRAKE PAGE 26 / STORY / PRACTICE MINDFULNESS

PAGE 32

PAGE 28 / REAL WEDDING / MEGAN AND MARK PAGE 32 / REAL WEDDING / MADDIE AND DAN PAGE 36 / REAL WEDDING / CAROLINE AND MICHAEL PAGE 44 / VENUES AND SERVICE WE LOVE

free poster!

PAGE 06

HE SAID / SHE SAID PAGE 18

STORY / PALM COVE WEDDING MARRIAGE VS WEDDING

SEE MICHELLE AND ERIN'S SPECIAL DAY ON PAGE 28 PAGE 08

05 CONTRIBUTORS

Highlight onntributors! our co u!)

(and a big thank yo

Josh Withers / Celebrant

Clare Powell / Creative Team

A B O U T M E I'm a gadget-obsessed nerd and Foo Fighters fan living on the Gold Coast with Britt, my awesome wife, and our cats, Stevie and Agnes. F A V W I N T E R W A R M E R Hot chocolate with cream (don't tell my wife!) P E R F E C T M O M E N T Turning a boyfriend and girlfriend into a husband and wife - nothing compares. R I G H T N O W I ' M C R U S H I N G O N The Apple Watch. I need it in my life.

A B O U T M E A little nature obsessed. I aspire to own a Kombi Van and chase sunsets and ocean views in my spare time. I wish I read more books, but I blame that on Netflix. F A V W I N T E R W A R M E R Definitely lamb shanks. P E R F E C T M O M E N T A glass of wine on Friday afternoon. R I G H T N O W I ' M C R U S H I N G O N Netflix of course!

Rachel Curl/ Designer and hand letterer

Brittany Snow-Withers / Writer

A B O U T M E Designer, hand letterer, wife, tea lover, small business owner, paper goods enthusiast, stationery hoarder.

F A V W I N T E R W A R M E R A good cup of tea and fluffy slippers. P E R F E C T M O M E N T Saturday morning sleep ins and coffee in bed. R I G H T N O W I ' M C R U S H I N G O N Anything monochrome.

A B O U T M E Wife. Kitty Mama. Friend. Coffee addicted. Messy clean freak. Terrible speller. Lover of baked goods and re-runs.

F A V O U R I T E W I N T E R W A R M E R Nanna's Lentil and Black Bean Soup. P E R F E C T M O M E N T When I hear my Hubby's car pull into the driveway. R I G H T N O W I ’ M C R U S H I N G O N Shibori tie dye, I am obsessed.

Rebecca Dore / Owner of Lighten Up

Elisha Kelly / Account Manager

A B O U T M E Founder of Lighten Up, Craniosacral Therapist, wholehearted believer in the good in people, and a yoga teacher with more Insta pics of my dog and desserts than downward dogs. F A V W I N T E R W A R M E R Chilli hot chocolate, the kicker is mine has both chilli and cayenne pepper! P E R F E C T M O M E N T that blissful look in someone’s eyes after a yoga class and Craniosacral treatment. R I G H T N O W I ' M C R U S H I N G O N my labradoodle Benji.

A B O U T M E Have an irresistible desire to travel and to renovate my old miners cottage into a classic beauty. F A V W I N T E R W A R M E R Slow cooked lamb shanks with mashed peas.

P E R F E C T M O M E N T Snuggled up in bed with my partner and our little fur baby Caesar. R I G H T N O W I ' M C R U S H I N G O N Anything to do with renovating/interior design from flooring to furniture and stunning pieces of artwork.

Let's get together

WANT TO SHARE IN RUFFLES & CAKE?

We're always on the look out for exciting photography, illustration or editorial contributions. If you think we'll be the perfect fit together, get in touch at submissions@rufflesandcake.com.au

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Skye Bree Millard hello@rufflesandcake.com.au ph.0447 370 087 PUBLICATION DESIGN

SB Creative Co. hello@sbcreativeco.com.au

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WEDDING AND EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS

SEE YOUR BUSINESS IN RUFFLES & CAKE

If you think your wedding was awesome and think we'll dig it, email us with three favourite professional photos from your day along with your contact details to submissions@rufflesandcake.com.au

For advertising opportunities please contact Emily Roebuck at the Townsville Bulletin on 4722 4471 or email emily.roebuck@news.com.au

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CONTACT US

submissions@rufflesandcake.com.au

Ruffles & Cake 2/2 Blackwood St, Townsville City ph. 0447 370 087

ADVERTISING

Emily Roebuck emily.roebuck@news.com.au

Copyright Ruffles & Cake © 2015. Ruffles & Cake is a quarterly publication. Whist every effort has been made to ensure accuracy of the information published within our magazine, no responsibility nor any liability can be accepted for inaccuracy for submissions by organisations or individuals and/or printers errors or omissions. The opinions expressed by individual contributors in Ruffles & Cake are not necessarily those of the publisher.

FREE PRINTABLE

free!

Click here to download SHOW US YOUR STYLED POSTERS BY TAGGING #RUFFLESANDCAKE AND #HUNTINGLOUISE

FREE PRINTABLE POSTER WE'VE TEAMED UP WITH THE TALENTED HUNTING LOUISE TO CREATE THIS GORGEOUS HANDLETTERING PRINT, CREATED EXCLUSIVELY FOR RUFFLES & CAKE READERS! COMPLETELY FREE TO DOWNLOAD, PRINT AND HANG AS YOU WISH! NOW, GO SPREAD THAT LOVE LIKE A WILD FIRE.

THANK YOU TO WWW.HUNTINGLOUISE.COM

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08 ADVICE

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN CELEBRATING A MARRIAGE AND HOSTING A WEDDING H E ’ S T H E M A N B E H I N D “M A R R I E D B Y J O S H ” A .K . A . J O S H W I T H E R S ; A F U N , Y O U N G C E L E B R A N T W H O L LY PA S S I O N AT E A B O U T M A R R I A G E A N D E Q U A L LY PA S S I O N AT E A B O U T W E D D I N G S B E I N G AW E S O M E . W E ’ R E S T O K E D T O H AV E H I M S H A R E H I S I N S I G H T T O H E L P Y O U C E L E B R AT E Y O U R U N I O N , Y O U R WAY.

STORY JOSH WITHERS P H O T O J A M E S D AY

I spent a morning with two women who are madly in love recently, madly in love with each other, in case that needed clearing up. They’re planning to marry, though the law at this point doesn’t allow them to enter a marriage, so they’re entering a union. The silly part is that the law really simply and clearly states that a marriage is a union anyway, but this isn’t an article about marriage equality.

The two girls are planning an event to celebrate how amazing their union is. And it sounds a lot like a wedding so we understand how it could be easy to get confused. So today I wanted to school you in the three different events you could hold after you fall in love and decide that despite your ability to live life by yourself, you would much rather live life with this other person you really like. The decision to marry.

When you decide to marry, you have three options in front of you, and the fact you’re even reading this means you may have already made your decision. Don’t worry, you can change mid-step. The three options are 1) to begin a marriage without any friends or family, 2) to begin a marriage then party with friends and family, 3) to hold a wedding. Explaining the first option is easy. It’s you and your favourite human, with two witnesses, in front of a civil celebrant. You say a few words and sign some paper and seconds later you’ve crossed the divide and entered husband and wife land.

The second option is risky, crazy, and awesome. The second option also smells a little bit like a wedding, the third option, but there’s some subtle and not-so-subtle differences.

If you’re celebrating your marriage everything happens with a purpose. Every decoration or ceremonial occasion brings with it a bucketload of meaning and a story. When you’re holding a wedding you buy the right playbook and just do what your parents and grandparents tell you to do.

Weddings and marriage celebrations hold one similarity.

They both require a couple to organise a celebrant and give them one month’s notice of the impending nuptials via a form called the ‘Notice of intended marriage form’ then on the day that celebrant has some very important but simple legal commitments to the couple and the government.

That’s where the similiarity ends.

Planning a wedding prioritises the dress, flowers and satin sashes over a powerful and meaningful marriage ceremony by an authentic celebration. The wedding says you need to wear the correct wedding uniform and stand on the right side, otherwise you’re not married.

A marriage celebration is a transparent and honest communication of love and commitment in a way that means something. A marriage celebration doesn’t just give you butterflies. An awesome celebration of marriage gives you elephants!

A wedding is held at 3pm on a Saturday then the couple and the bridal party are quickly whisked away for a photo shoot and then they enter a local function room to the tune of the Black Eyed Peas awful sampling of Dirty Dancing just before that drunk guy you didn’t even want to invite does something embarrassing.

A marriage celebration looks quite different to that. If you’re a big fan of in-focus selfies then you might want

a pretty hip photographer to come along for the ride. If, when you celebrate things, you like to have a drink or two then you’ll need some of those, and people to serve them, and if you want to celebrate in private, away from the McDonald's playground, then you could consider a venue to celebrate in. Fancy a bite while you celebrate, you’ll need a caterer, and if you like to sit down while you eat and drink, best you call a furniture hire company.

If you like fancy things that look really hip and with it then a wedding stylist sounds like your kind of person, and if you’re the kind of Facebook user who shares cat videos, then a wedding videographer should be on your list of people to stalk on Facebook.

When awesome things happen do you like to dress up all fancy? If so, you’ll want to organise some super fancy clothes for your wedding. But don’t stress, you’re not going to school so you don’t have to wear the same uniform as everyone else, so choose fancy clothes that make you feel amazing, not fancy clothes that everyone wears to a wedding.

There are so many innovative, interesting and unique ways to celebrate the awesomeness of life today so open yourself up to fresh ideas, not trends. This is your marriage celebration, not any old wedding.

There’s no single way to host a wedding. Just remember that there’s no wedding committee judging yours and in the end, you’re just two kids in love celebrating a marriage beginning! •

she's a free spirit FOR THE BRIDE WHOSE SPIRIT SPARKLES FROM THE INSIDE

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18 REAL COUPLE

real Couple

HE SAID / SHE SAID MEET OUR SWEET LOCAL, REAL COUPLE REBECCA AND GARETH

PHOTOS SB CREATIVE CO.

19 REAL COUPLE

GARETH

28 / FIT TER AND TURNER

REBECCA

28 / ANIMAL AT TENDANT / RSPCA

HOW WE MET

He said: At a magazine launch we were both invited to by a mutual friend.

She said: We met through a mutual friend and established a great friendship straight away. He was a little shy but I remember thinking straight away how incredibly cool I thought he was. We remained “just friends” for about two years – despite a few date proposals from Gareth in that time – because I didn’t want to jeopardise the friendship we had. Then, I decided to take a risk and agreed to an official date.. which turned out to be very worthwhile!

THE FIRST DATE

He said: I invited Bec to the Bushland Beach Pub for dinner - I was nervous as anything as I had wanted this date for a while, and I didn’t want to mess it up.

She said: Well Gareth is a total romantic, so it was dinner at the Bushy Beach pub, haha.. Actually, it was a really lovely evening and we are both fairly low-key, low-maintenance people so it suited us. But Gareth did pay, and afterwards we took a stroll along the beach.

ht away ig a tr s g in k in th r e " I rememb he was..." t h g u o th I l o co how incredibly -REBECCA

THE FIRST KISS

T H E F I R S T VA L E N T I N E S

He said: We were sharing a plate of spaghetti, and we both started to eat the end of the same noodle… wait, that wasn’t us…

He said: I actually had to ask Bec what I did for this as I can’t remember. Maybe I’m just the kind of guy who shows Bec romance every day, so that Valentine’s Day doesn’t stand out above the rest (Bec would be rolling her eyes by now).

She said: Is it totally terrible that I don’t remember exactly when this was? Obviously it made a good impression, hey Gareth! I know that it was after one of the first few dates we had, as Gareth was dropping me home.

She said: Gareth embarrassed me with a big PDA at work in the form of a gigantic vase of red roses that I actually needed help with carrying to the car! I think those PDAs are compulsory for your first Valentine’s Day right? Then we had a beautiful dinner at A Touch Of Salt.

20 REAL COUPLE

THE BEST MOMENTS

He said: Number one would have to be when we got engaged. Another unforgettable experience was our east coast road trip where we hired a camper van and lived the nomad lifestyle for a month. I also loved our first holiday together where we went to the Gold Coast and I organised a private tour of Dreamworld’s Tiger Island (tigers are her favourite animal). That holiday was a lot of fun.

She said: So many spring to mind! I just love hanging out with Gareth, so our 2012/2013 road trip up the east coast of Australia in a ‘Wicked’ van was an awesome time that we spent together. It also proved to us how good we are together because we were in each other’s faces for a month, sometimes hungry, sleep deprived, and in desperate need of a shower, yet there were still no arguments (though I think we came close a couple of times!).

THE FIRST I LOVE YOU

He said: Was at one of Bec’s friend’s wedding. It was the end of the night so the emotions of seeing a couple get married and a few beers got the better of me.

She said: Gareth said "I Love You" first, about three months after we had started dating while at a friend’s wedding. It kind of came out of the blue but I was really glad because I’d been feeling like I had wanted to say it too. So we both told each other that night that we loved one another.

FINDING THE ONE

He said: This may sound a little cheesy, but I remember saying to my friend Dan after the night we met, "I will marry that girl one day." It only took me a couple of years to get that first date but from then on we were inseparable.

She said: Get your buckets ready because this is going to sound extremely corny but I think I knew straight away. Having the friendship as our foundation definitely helps. And I have always felt completely at ease with, and important to Gareth. The main thing is we always have each other’s back.

a " T his may sound emember saying to Ir t u b , y es e ch le t lit e met, w t h ig n the r te my friend Dan af at girl one day ."

"I will marry th -GARETH

THE PROPOSAL

SMALL THINGS YOU LOVE

He said: As I knew I had wanted to marry Bec from the beginning, it didn’t take me long to get the ring made. I think it was only about 12 months after we started dating, but from there it took a while for everything to fall into place, and for me to find the right time to pop the question. The nerves were running high when it came time for me to ask Bec’s parents for their blessing, but thankfully everything went well and shortly after we went to Hamilton Island for a few days holiday.

From there we took a helicopter to White Haven Beach with a packed picnic and that’s where I locked this beauty down.

He said: Bec lets me control the TV remote all the time, which means she usually ends up watching some kind of fishing show with me – and she never complains!

She said: Gareth went all out for this one! He booked us a few days away at Hamilton Island, which I thought was a treat brought on by the fact that we’d both been having a stressful time at work. He’d booked us into Qualia Resort (where you actually feel like royalty) and had organised a helicopter to take us to a private picnic set up on Whitehaven Beach. Despite all of this, it still came as a complete shock to me, as I didn’t even think he had organised a ring. Turns out he had, as well as asked for my parents’ permission a few weeks earlier.

He kept trying to make me stand up so that he could get down on one knee, but I was too interested in the picnic food, so eventually he had to sit down in front of me and propose as I was halfway through devouring a chocolate muffin. I accepted with tears in my eyes and chocolate on my face.

She said: In all honesty, my favourite time of day is lying in bed at night with Gareth and our furry babies; chatting, watching TV, and laughing at the critters.

I love just hanging out with him because he makes me feel so comfortable. Gareth works so hard during the day, then comes home and cooks dinner a lot of the time, and even obliges when I ask him for back rubs!

THE WEDDING

He said: This would have to be Bec’s department - she is the ‘wedding planner’. To be honest I don’t have much to do with the planning side of things (I’ve purposely left it up to the expert). I’m just looking forward to seeing her walk down the aisle looking amazing and then spending the night with family and friends celebrating the wonderful day.

She said: Our wedding is in October so it is creeping up far too quickly! It is a rustic, garden party style, backyard wedding which suits us to a tee. I think plans are under control thus far. I am trying really hard not to stress out at all and just enjoy the lead up to the day – when I will finally get to call myself Gareth’s wife! •

21 REAL COUPLE

025 ADVICE

dezilla, i r B a ’t n s a w ted..." n " I definitely a w I at h w ew but I just kn -CARLA DRAKE

23 FEATURE

d l o e l a litt INTERVIEW FRANCINE PULLMAN STORY BRITTANY SNOW WITHERS PHOTOS SB CREATIVE CO.

“THE FUNNY THING IS MOST PEOPLE P R E S U M E T H AT I T ’ S T W O L I T T L E O L D L A D I E S W O R K I N G I N C O L L A B O R AT I O N , A N D A D D R E S S T H E E M A I L S T O T H E M”, J O K E S C A R L A D R A K E ; T H E FA C E B E H I N D E L S I E & A U D R E Y V I N TA G E H I R E .

But Carla’s vintage hire business and the name behind it is in fact a tribute to a special two women. Named after her two grandmothers, Elsie Berry and Audrey Drake, they are the driving inspiration behind Carla’s love of all things vintage and unique.

“Elsie was bold, loved a little bit of a tipple and told you exactly how things were. Audrey had an award winning garden and served tea in pretty cups. I’d like to think that I’ve inherited characteristics from both of them. The business name was my way of paying homage to two amazing women.’’

But the name ‘Elsie & Audrey’ didn’t sit so well with Carla’s closest girlfriends, who she rushed to share her idea with before making the name official.

“My ‘practical’ friend shut down the name straight away, suggesting to go for something along the lines of ‘Townsville High Tea Club and Hire;’ something generic and not overly original. But I stuck to my guns. I like being a little different; it reflects me as a person and felt really connected to creating a brand that had a story behind it."

Frustrated at the limited options she found when planning her own wedding in 2011, the self confessed bowerbird found herself sourcing unique pieces to add to her personal wedding collection.

“I was the typical bride trawling through wedding blogs, with Pinterest my new best friend, but I was disappointed when it seemed as though key pieces I wanted for our big day, I just

couldn’t find. I definitely wasn’t a Bridezilla, but I just knew what I wanted; the eclectic vintage china plates and cups, ornate cutlery, embroidered linen and beautiful crystal vases.”

Once married, Carla’s collection of vintage pieces quickly grew as her love of all things vintage turned into quite the hobby. “I found myself haunting op shops and garage sales for goodies before ‘it was cool.’ I avoided too much of the shabby chic vibe, I wanted real pieces that weren’t badly painted chairs trying to look vintage."

Seeing the need for a fresh event company in Townsville that could cater to those who were looking for a little old world flair, the need for Carla’s pieces to be seen and used quickly turned into a thriving business. “Everything seemed to just fall into place. Plus, I needed a way to justify hanging onto all this beautiful stuff I’d collected and loved that would appease my new husband.”

The ability to give Grandma her very own ‘flash back Friday’ is something that Carla's collection can do, “I love the way it allows for a range of generations to celebrate together, doesn’t everyone enjoy frocking up and enjoying tea, food and good company?”

Believing that no wedding or event should be off the shelf Carla, who admits she “used to be fun before kids”, is still happy doing what she loves and helping others achieve it.

“It’s truly the best feeling to be able to help a bride and groom achieve the looks that they love from blogs and pretty Pinterest photos. Whether it be allowing them to hire some pieces for a touch of DIY, or styling services, right from ceremony set up, creating unique centrepieces, gift tables, tea and coffee bars, dessert tables and all the little details in between.

“All in all, people want to celebrate significant events in their lives and want to make it memorable using beautiful things.

I’m not a cheesy romantic at all, but there’s nothing better then helping to turn people’s ideas into reality.’’

24 FEATURE

C A R L A' S T O P F I V E T I P S TO PERSONALISE YOUR BRIDAL SHOWER HIGH TEA It doesn’t always have to be scones! Here are some alternative ideas for bridal showers. Still serve beautiful blends of traditional teas, but who’s to know that it’s more likely to be a long island iced tea in your cup than an English breakfast? Serve your cocktails in dainty cups and pair the food to match. We won’t tell!

perfect tourpabssridesmaids! onto yo xx

G A R D E N PA R T Y Find a shady spot and lay out rustic trestle tables. Use foliage to create a ‘runner’ down the centre and serve drinks laced with greenery. Mojitos, Pimms and Mai Tais for the traditionalists, basil gin fizzes for the more adventurous.

HARK BACK TO A BYGONE ERA Whether it be the roaring 20s with a Gin Rickey in hand and crunchy crudités….or the fabulous 50s with martinis and Madmen inspired dresses, choosing an era takes your party to the next level (perhaps steer clear of the 80s though!)

S I G NAT U R E ST YL E Do you or the bride-to-be have a signature cocktail? Use that as your starting point and work from there. If the bride's known to enjoy a strawberry margarita (or two), load the platters with selections of fresh fruit, crackers and cheeses. If she’s more of a tequila gal, then Mexican style canapés may be in order.

C O L O U R P OP Use the bride’s wedding colour palette as inspiration; pair cocktails and decorative elements to the bride’s chosen colours. If it’s a pink and peony wedding, then a try a Pink Paloma. If she has chosen gold touches and it’s all about the bling, go for a Bellini or a grapefruit sparkler.

Chat to Carla!

If you're keen to get in touch with Carla to help organise your next event, email her at elsieandaudreyvintagehire@gmail.com or call 0439 959 049.

-CARLA DRAKE

wedding bookings open for 2016 our greatest stories can be made when good people are brought together

GENUINE / AUTHENTIC / DOCUMENTARY STYLE PHOTOGRAPHY

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PRACTISE MINDFULNESS IT'S EASY TO GET LOST IN THE HYPE OF EVERY THING WEDDING. REBECCA DORE FROM LIGHTEN UP SHARES WITH US HER TIPS TO S T O P, B R E AT H A N D A P P R E C I AT E .

STORY REBECCA DORE

Your partner has just proposed to you. Is your first thought on the life you will spend together, or is your first thought about the wedding day? Be honest now. If you are like most of us, the excitement of planning the special day is immediately present and the relationship itself can start to be outshone by the pretty Pinterest images on your pinboard. All the pretty ideas that will make us feel so happy. Or will they?

Don’t get me wrong, planning a wedding day can be a great source of creative expression, full of inspiration and celebration. But quickly, the ideals of the perfect wedding day can start to feel heavy. Will our day measure up?

Wedding blogs are full of beautiful imagery and ideas.

As lovely as they are, they can also be a cause of stress, as we measure ourselves and our special day against these glamorous ideals and perfect details. Images tell the story of love and romance which we want to buy for our wedding day, but deep down, you know that these things cannot be bought. Do we have the time and money to perfect every fairytale detail? Why do we need everything to be so perfect? Our identity starts to get tied up into “things” and we get fooled into thinking that romance and love can be conjured up by the perfect photo embrace on that gorgeous vintage chair. We start to get lost in the pretty treasures that hold so much promise to make that day perfect. We might even get frustrated that our husbands to be 'just don’t understand' the importance of these things. It pains me to say this, but did it ever cross your mind that they could be right? Bridal blasphemy I know! Mindfulness

helps us to navigate our way through these challenges without getting lost in consumption and materialism.

Mindfulness can help us to keep our eyes on the real prize; the stuff that is meaningful, the stuff that makes us happy.

Do you want the lead up to your wedding to be a building block or a stumbling block for your long-term relationship?

Here's my tips to avoid morphing into a stressed out Bridezila, so take a deep breath and have a read.

Stay Grateful. The best way to stay grounded and happy is to focus on all you have to be grateful for right now; Like that (hopefully) lovely man who asked to spend the rest of his life with you, your family and friends, food to eat, green grass, fresh air. You get the picture. Make this a daily practice, wake up and be grateful. Put a note on your mirror “what am I grateful for today”. Besides, the best beauty tip I can give you to truly glow on your wedding day is to practise this inner beauty ritual daily.

Make decisions based on your values. Stop and think.

What are my values, for my relationship, my life, what is actually important to me? Coming back to value based decisions helps to grow our confidence and self-esteem, it also kicks confusion and stress. So whether it’s a decision about budget, about how much time to allow for photos, who to invite. Come back to your values.

Remember what makes you happy. What really makes you happy? It is something we all get confused about as our modern western culture leads us to believe that material success and material things makes us happy. And we all fall for it. I will be happy when we have the bigger

house, the $10,000 wedding dress and great hair, right?

Well it might be true about great hair, but generally that stuff of the world doesn’t lead to lasting happiness. In fact, what usually happens instead is we end up spending more time working and suffering in order to accommodate our material needs. So don’t let the perfect wedding consume you.

Prioritise what is important based on your values, think about what will leave lasting happiness in your life. The stuff you remember will be the things you can’t buy and can’t plan, like that wedding speech your husband gives that brings a tear to your eye, like the proud look on your dad's face when he sees you as a bride for the first time and the unspoken support of all your friends and family as they gather around to support your relationship. Unless you are mindful, and present you might miss these most important details!

Practise mindfulness. Engage in a mindfulness based practice, like Yoga, Meditation or Qigong. These activities provide a great opportunity to become centred and calm down. If you are buzzing around constantly stressed and worried, your body is in fight flight mode. If you stay in this stress mode too long, it starts to have an impact on your health. You need to be in a relaxed state in order for your body to replenish itself, your immune system to stay strong, your damaged cells to be repaired and to get nourishment from your food. A radiant bride is a healthy bride! •

Local Wedding

MEGAN AND MARK 10 APRIL 2015 / MAGNETIC ISL AND

Megan: Our proposal was very low key, honest and matter of fact – just like Mark. I got home from a swimming carnival at school, and was hot and slightly cranky. We were about to take our dog Harley for a walk as we usually do, when suddenly Mark had to ‘pop out for a bit’ after receiving a text. Off he went on his pushbike and came back half an hour later. He marched into the kitchen where I was, presented me with the ring box and asked if I’d like to wear it for the rest of my life. Apparently, he had been waiting for a long time for the ring to be made, and after finding out that it was ready he couldn’t wait to give it to me.

PHOTOGRAPHER SWEET MARY PHOTOGRAPHY BRIDAL GOWN WHITEHOUSE BRIDAL PALACE VEIL / HAIR PIECE BORROWED FLOWERS FLOURISH FLORISTRY RINGS RMJ'S JEWELLERY JEWELLERY/ACCESORIES BRIDE'S OWN BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES CUSTOM MADE BY FAMILY GROOMS/GROOMSMEN SUITS NEWPARK MENSWEAR CEREMONY/RECEPTION/CATERING WATERGARDEN OASIS, PICNIC BAY HOTEL CAKE LIZZII WATSON STYLIST KATARINA KEOUGH STATIONERY DESIGNER SHARON JONSSON HAIR BILLIE-JEAN ACREMAN MAKE-UP JO BUTLER MUSIC GROOVE ENTERTAINMENT CELEBRANT CHEYENNE TREVOR TRANSPORT TROPICANA TOURS

AN ISLAND WEDDING

Megan: The decision to have our wedding at Magnetic Island was an easy choice for us. Mark is slightly obsessed with surfing, and whenever there is even a remote possibility of some waves on Maggie, we head over there so he can surf at Radical Bay. Magnetic Island has always felt like a special place for us as it was the first place we went away for a weekend together, and we have always had a soft spot for Picnic Bay. We also liked the idea that we could have the ceremony and reception both at the one location to be able to spend as much time with our guests as we could.

STYLE

Megan: Originally, my dress was full length with a long train and a high lace neckline. I had always wanted a tea length gown so that I could be more comfortable, and so that I could wear a fancy pair of shoes that people could actually see! I couldn’t have been happier. It was such a fun dress to wear and I didn’t want to take it off at the end of the night. I also wore the same birdcage veil that my two younger sisters wore on their wedding days, and I carried our Nanna’s brooch pinned to my bouquet as they did. Wearing my Nanna’s string of (real) pearls was pretty special. My mum has always sewn clothes for my two sisters and I so I was chuffed when she agreed to make the bridesmaids dresses in three different types of floral material, which contributed to the overall native/floral feel of the day, too.

riage must "A good mar marriage the In be created. s are the g "little" thin g in big th s." - M E G A N

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y are flowers a s the me e iv at n d nte buy "I always wa Mark ha s tended to , at th up on the land the type ew r g I rs, and erence over the yea make some sort of ref so wanted to ing in the bush." ing to my upbr - MEGAN

A TOUCH OF DIY

Megan: We have been very lucky to have so many people contribute in many different ways. One of my bridesmaids and another friend hand-made over 40m of bunting to decorate the reception and a friend’s Mum sewed 90 hessian chair sashes in the 48 hrs leading up to the wedding! One of my work friends made the amazing coconut wedding cake and Mark’s Dad home-brewed the rum that we bottled as favours. I also made labels for the honey jars which we gave as favours.

STAND OUT MOMENTS

Megan: Our first dance; just the two of us dancing outside on the grass under the fairy lights in the garden to ‘our song’ Stand By Me. Another stand out for us was our ceremony; I remember walking in to the venue, standing with my Dad and looking down at Mark then around at all of our friends and family and thinking how very lucky I was to be right there at that specific point in time. Also when Cheyenne, our Celebrant and friend, announced that we were married! The hugs and congratulations at the end of the ceremony and holding Mark’s hand as we walked back down the aisle was really special, too.

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Local Wedding

MADDIE AND DAN 5 NOVEMBER 2014 / PORT DOUGLAS

Maddie: Our mums have been best friends since we were little. Our families grew up together and went on family holidays.

It wasn't until we were older when it all started. It was a month or so after Dan’s dad passed away that we went on our first date.

Dan says "Maddie came into my life at the right time.” We enjoyed hanging out and over the years, with the challenges and experiences we had shared together it brought us closer. Fast forward to a month after moving into our new house, Dan proposed at home with the help of our Beagle, Reggie. Reggie had a note around his neck asking “Would you marry my dad?”

PHOTOGRAPHER STORIES BY ASH BRIDAL GOWN SASS & BIDE VEIL / HAIR PIECE JEANETTE MAREE SHOES ALICE AND OLIVIA FLOWERS FLORAL EDGE JEWELLERY / ACCESSORIES SASS AND BIDE BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES ZIMMERMAN GROOM / GROOMSMEN'S SUITS CALIBRE POCKET SQUARE ALEXANDER MCQUEEN CEREMONY LITTLE COVE, PORT DOUGLAS RECEPTION/CATERING WATERGATE RESTAURANT STATIONERY DESIGN SIMONE ZULIC CELEBRANT NATASHA KOLLOSCHE

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THE CEREMONY

Maddie: Our ceremony was very intimate, we let the closest people to us see who we are as a couple and shared all the amazing things we love about each other with them. We wrote our own vows because only we know what promises we make to each other.

THE RECEPTION

Michelle: This might be weird and we may be the only couple who’d say this, but our ceremony was the best moment of our day.

It’s the moment you can take a breath, relax, be in the moment and not worry what’s going on around you. It sets the tone for the rest of the day.

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s] a [what dres n't want ide o n d a h "I did ut I knew I I wanted, b the top with tulle... r anything ove l I tried it on that I ti n it wa sn't u erfect." sp - MADDIE knew it wa

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THE RECEPTION

Maddie: Our reception felt like we were hidden away in a beautiful forest. It was an understated dinner party, which was exactly what we wanted. We enjoyed drinks and canapés when we first arrived with our family and friends, followed by a sit down dinner where we had our speeches. Our niece Sachi wrote the most beautiful letter to us, which she read out at the reception. Ash (our photographer) captured this so perfectly and we will remember this forever! As soon as everyone had finished dinner it was up to the bar area where we had our first dance, which was a mix from Boy and Bear Fall at your feet , and Chet Faker's Gold .

THE DRESS

Maddie: I had been looking at a beautiful lace dress for months. I flew to Sydney to try it on and pre-order it, but it just didn’t feel right. I had no idea what I wanted, but I knew I didn’t want anything over the top or with tulle. I came across the Hurricane dress from Sass and Bide, but was still unsure. It wasn’t until I tried it on that I knew it was perfect. I think my headpiece really made it perfect though.

n o i at n Desti edding W ple! u

local NQ co

Local couple

CAROLINE AND MICHAEL 22 MARCH 2014 / NEW ORLEANS

Caroline: Michael proposed on Ratidian Beach in Guam. This is the Northernmost tip of the island, and is a nature preserve with the most pristine beaches. It was mid-week and we had the park mostly to ourselves. There was a bended knee, a beautiful ring and lots of smiles. I grew up on the island so it was very special that he proposed there.

PHOTOGRAPHER SULLY CLEMMER DRESS PRONOVIAS VEIL / HAIR PIECE FAMILY HEIRLOOM FLOWERS FLORAL SOCIETY OF NEW ORLEANS CAKE LA L RINGS JAMES ALLEN SHOES SOMETHING BLU BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES / JEWELLERY / ACCESSORIES BHLDN GROOMS SUIT WIL VALOR, BRISBANE GROOMSMEN SUITS/BOW TIES THE BLACK TUX/PERLIS CEREMONY THE NATIONAL SHRINE OF OUR LADY OF PROMPT SUCCCOR RECEPTION PRIVATE RESIDENCE CATERING BRENNAN'S CAKE TOPPER LA L MUSIC JOE SIMON'S JAZZ STATIONERY DESIGNER RISE AND SHINE LETTERPRESS HAIR/MAKEUP KISS AND MAKEUP CELEBRANT FR. RICHARD THIBODEAU

SOMETHING BORROWED

Caroline: One special moment was right before the ceremony; I spent some precious time with my sister, mother, and grandmother. They helped to put on my veil and calm my nerves. The veil was worn by my aunt, my mother and my cousin all before me. It was a very special 'something borrowed'. There is a photo of my grandmother standing on a pew to adjust my vail. This still makes me smile.

THE CEREMONY

Caroline: Our ceremony was beautiful and very traditional. Although the space was large it felt very intimate and warm. Michael and I were overwhelmed by the love and support that was present. Something I’m sure neither of us will soon forget. We had a very talented musician play piano and organ throughout the ceremony. We left the church to the Beatles “All you need is love” on organ, it was fantastic!

FIRST LOOK

Caroline: Michael and I did a “first look” before the ceremony.

We rendezvoused at my Aunt’s home to visit and take photos.

So many of our guests travelled to be there on the day so it was important to us that we spend as much time with them as we could. By meeting ahead of time we were able to go seamlessly into the reception, and there was no lull for the guests. It also allowed us to get out any pre wedding jitters and really have fun with the photos.

THE DRESS

Caroline: The dress chose me. I had originally envisaged lots of romantic lace and tulle, and had tried on an array in that style. But as they say, “try everything on." Once I put my dress on I knew it was the one. It was from a Spanish designer and was made out of the most amazing Mikado silk. The tailoring was incredible. I fell in love with the clean classic lines and full skirt.

NEW ORLEANS

Caroline: New Orleans is an old city full of history and soul, and we really wanted to embrace the richness of our surroundings on the day. Running around the city taking photos with Michael was pretty special. At one point the photographer pulled over and we jumped on an empty streetcar!

Streetcars are a New Orleans Icon and seeing one empty was just too perfect to pass up. It was the best photo op and was really a lot of fun!

in true to you. Take "Our advice; to be member to edit, and re lots of ideas but e special touches that os th be sure to add as a couple" are unique to you -CAROLINE

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A TOUCH OF TRADITION

Caroline: One tradition that we did incorporate was that of cake pulls. This is a tradition that is common in the Southern United States. Silver charms on ribbon are placed between the layers of the wedding cake. The eligible ladies in the party and the closest friends to the bride pull them out. Each charm is symbolic of something i.e. luck, travel, lots of babies, and of course next to be married. It was a little bit of fun and something different.

THE RECEPTION

Caroline: The reception was a few blocks away from our ceremony on St. Charles Ave at a family member’s home. We were so fortunate to be able to use the space. It made the event so much more special and now every time we visit for the holidays we can relive the night. The house is beautiful antebellum space with very ornate features and rich tones. We wanted to complement its beauty and used a lot of flowers, garlands and candles to accentuate it. Our reception was standup cocktail party. And as it was one time with both of our families I one room we really wanted everyone to mingle. We had a great jazz band outside in the courtyard and had a great flow between the two spaces. We wanted to give a nod to each other’s culture, and tried to do so with the food, along with using flowers that were symbolic to us, a lot of eucalyptus for a nod to Australia and touches of rosemary, which we both love. The caterer made little Australian meat pies for Michael as well as some wonderful Cajun dishes as a homage to my roots.

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union.

"Marriage is a ys . Making your wa al r It is a vow fo and committing to tackling spouse er. " best friend your ws at you, togeth er whatev life thro -CAROLINE

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44 DIRECTORY

VENUES AND SERVICES WE LOVE

IN THE BOOTH

RYDGES SOUTH BANK

Phone / 1300 026 684

Phone / 4726 5265

Phone / 4724 2929

Studio-quality photo booths for special events.

Unlimited instant prints, video messaging and a range of custom options make the booth your own.

Let us make your wedding the most talked about night of the year!

Classic North Queensland architecture, elegant presentation and a magical ambience are supported by contemporary cuisine and service, making Rydges Southbank Townsville one of Townsville’s most sought after wedding venues.

Michel Flores now offers catering for all occasions and locations from his Bundock Street Delicatessen, Essentially Fresh. Let us create lasting memories for your guests and take the stress away from your big day.

WWW.INTHEBOOTH.COM.AU

WWW.RYDGES.COM/TOWNSVILLE

WWW.ESSENTIALLYFRESH.COM.AU

QT PORT DOUGLAS

CATHOLIC DIOCESE

FERRY

Email / townsville@inthebooth.com.au

TOWNSVILLE

Email / functions_townsville@rydges.com

ESSENTIALLY FRESH

Email / info@essentiallyf resh.com.au

OF TOWNSVILLE

PHOTOGRAPHY

Phone / 4099 8900

Phone / 4726 3200

Phone / 0437 715 500

Mad Men meets the Hamptons in Tropical North Queensland, QT Port Douglas is a unique designer resort with a contemporary yet quirky tropical feel.

The Office for Life, Marriage and Family is dedicated to providing support, resources and programs that will assist every couple in creating a ‘love that lasts a lifetime.

At Ferry Photography we document every aspect of your wedding. From Dawn until those roll on the floor, tears of laughter dance floor antics get out of control. We are there for you. All day.

WWW.QTPORTDOUGLAS.COM.AU

WWW.TSV.CATHOLIC.ORG.AU

WWW.FERRYPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

RESORT

Email / sales@portdouglas@qthotels.com.au

Email / diocese@tsv.catholic.org.au

Email / info@ferryphotography.com

45 DIRECTORY

VENUES AND SERVICES WE LOVE

SACRED HEART

SOUTH PACIFIC BRIDAL

DENTAL BAL ANCE NQ

Phone / 1800 334 683

Phone / 4755 1360

Why spend thousands on a dress when you can hire?

Find your perfect, exclusive custom made wedding dress with South Pacific Bridal.

The smile of your life, for the best day of your life.

Commence the new chapter of your life as husband and wife in the historic Sacred Heart Cathedral in the heart of the city.

WWW.SPB.COM.AU/CAIRNS-WEDDING-DRESSES/

WWW.DENTALBALANCE.COM.AU

WWW.TSV.CATHOLIC.ORG.AU

Email / weddings@spb.com.au

Email / dentalbalance@mail.com

CATHERDRAL

Phone / 4771 4461

Email / cathedralparish@tsv.catholic.org.au

WWW.SPB.COM.AU

TOWNSVILLE INJECTABLE

WEST END TEA HOUSE

WALL ACE BISHOP

Phone / 44310 880

Stockland / 4421 7100 Willows / 4444 5754

Phone / 4772 7214

Come and indulge at the West End Teahouse to host your bridal shower high tea in our beautiful lush garden surroundings and visit our gallery featuring local artists. Comfortable lounge area and airconditioned seating available.

Over the past 97 years, generations of Australians have chosen our diamond jewellery and watches to signify milestone celebrations. Trust us with your special moment.

Townsville Injectable & Laser Clinic is your new destination for quality, rejuvenation treatments, including cosmetic injectables, laser rejuvenation and skin treatments.

FIND US ON FACEBOOK / WEST END TEAHOUSE

WWW.WALLACEBISHOP.COM.AU

WWW.TOWNSVILLEINJECTABLEANDLASER.COM.AU

Email / outworx@bigpond.com

Castletown / 4755 3200

AND LASER CLINIC

Email / info@townsvilleinjectableandlaser.com.au

46 DIRECTORY

VENUES AND SERVICES WE LOVE

HERITAGE TEA ROOMS

JANINE’S CAKE ART

Phone / 4778 0199

Phone / 4773 2060

Email / scones@heritagetearooms.com.au

Email / cakes@janinescakeart.com

MALPARA FLORIST

Hermit Park / 4771 6767 Kirwan / 4723 2383 Email / sales@malpara.com.au

Bring the rustic charm of the Tea Rooms to your wedding celebration; picturesque bush land and a natural ambience, create a stunning backdrop.

Making your wedding cake an artistic showpiece in design, colour, balance and beauty - a sight and taste sensation.

Malpara Florist the boutique flower specialists have you covered, from wedding bouquets and buttonholes, through to reception flowers, personalised to fit your special day’s theme.

WWW.HERITAGETEAROOMS.COM.AU

WWW.JANINESCAKEART.COM

WWW.MALPARA.COM.AU

BELLADONA BRIDAL

T H E H O L I DAY I N N

NORTH QUEENSLAND

TOWNSVILLE

Phone / 4771 5580

Phone / 4729 2021

Phone / 0402 463 450

We are a locally owned, long established bridal salon offering friendly expert advice and good old fashioned service. In store you’ll find a large range of affordable designer gowns.

With a unique rooftop venue for ceremonies and the stunning Pandora room for receptions, we’ll make sure your wedding is special from start to end.

We believe wedding stationery should reflect the look and feel of your whole wedding day. Whether it be a custom design or one from our collection, we’ll create something you love and make the stationery process as straight forward, stress free and enjoyable.

WWW.BELLADONNABRIDALNORTHQLD.COM

WWW.HOLIDAYINN.COM/TOWNSVILLE

WWW.HUNTINGLOUISE.COM

Email / margaret@belladonnabridalnorthqld.com

Keen to be seen?

Email / events.townsville@ihg.com

HUNTING LOUISE

Email / hello@huntinglouise.com

For advertising opportunities please contact Emily Roebuck at the Townsville Bulletin on 4722 4471 or email emily.roebuck@news.com.au

Say I do...

In one of Townsville’s spectacular outdoor settings >> Anderson Gardens Wellington St, Mundingburra

>> Magnetic Island Beaches >> Palmetum University Rd, Annandale

>> Queens Gardens Corner of Gregory and Paxton St, North Ward

>> Townsville Beaches Anderson Gardens, photography by Tella Photography

Other stunning settings include: >> >> >> >> >> >> >>

Anzac Park Rotunda – The Strand Burke Street Headland – The Strand Tobruk Headland/Foreshore – The Strand Perfume Gardens – CBD Soroptimist Park – Rowes Bay Walter Nesbit Park – Palleranda Black Weir Park – Kirwan

>> >> >> >> >> >>

Raintree Grove – Riverway Rossiter Park – Aitkenvale Monument Park – Douglas Loam Island – Rasmussen Apex Park – Kelso Paluma, and many more...

Visit www.townsville.qld.gov.au to download the Townsville City Council Ceremonies Guide or call 1300 878 001.

Make your smile the best it can be on your special day Make sure your smile is the centre of attention for all the right reasons! Dr Darren Burch, a general dentist from Dental Balance NQ is an accredited provider of the revolutionary Cfast™ and Fastbraces® orthodontic systems. They’re fast, discrete and affordable with most results achieved in less than 6 months. In addition, we offer a number of cosmetic dentistry solutions to make sure your smile shines all day and forever.

Remember, your smile is the prettiest thing you will wear.

BOOK YOUR COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION Call now on 4755 1360 to see if Cfast™ or Fastbraces® is the perfect fit for you.

Dental Balance NQ / 599 Ross River Road, Kirwan / 4755 1360 / dentalbalance@mail.com / www.dentalbalance.com.au