brides
ISSUE#1 SPRING 2011
SWEEPING STYLISH OFF THEIR FEET
W
elcome Nat
O
nce upon a time, many years ago, two little girls dreamed of getting married. They would wear full-skirted gowns sparkling with sequins and crystals. Their tiaras would glitter in the sun, shining through their long wavy hair. Waiting at the end of the red carpet strewn with pink rose petals would be Prince Charming. And there would be presents, piles and piles of presents, all wrapped in white and pink. Several years ago these two girls, now not so little, crossed paths. They met working in marketing within the sport and recreation industry. Soon after, Erin got married and Nat followed just one year later. Sadly, Erin couldn’t find a unicorn to ride down the aisle and Nat was unable to track down glass slippers in her size. Other than these small inconveniences both girls had the weddings they wanted, albeit slightly different to what they had been dreaming of some 20 years earlier. Tastes had changed somewhat, with not a tiara or meringue gown in sight.
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Erin Having loved her own wedding and all the associated loveliness weddings bring with them, Nat wanted to become involved in the industry, so she started up Dizzy Wizzy Design, designing one of a kind wedding stationery. Unable to find the perfect advertising spot to best reach West Aussie brides, Nat thought “I’ll start my own magazine for WA brides and advertise in that.” Knowing that there might be quite a bit involved in creating a brand new wedding magazine Nat asked Erin to take care of the words and Smitten Magazine began.
OUR SPRING COVER: Photo: Ricky & Co Photography Thanks to Kiera (and Chad) from Eufloria by the Beach for sharing their day. See page 48 for the full story.
F
ancy seeing yourself in these pages? Please get in touch and tell us about your wedding, info@smittenmagazine.com.au Since starting work on Smitten Magazine we have been overwhelmed by the support from local wedding vendors. We’ve met people from all corners of the wedding world, all creating the most beautiful and exquisite products or offering truly unique services. We always knew West Aussies were a clever bunch, but we are totally in awe of just how clever people here really are. Our aim was to create a magazine full of ideas and inspiration for stylish WA brides, with products that can be found just down the road. There’s nothing better than popping in for a chat with the jeweller making your wedding bands or having a cup of tea with the person designing your stationery. We think WA brides have been missing out on much of the wedding prettiness that is so easily found over on the other side of the country. We wanted to help our own local wedding vendors connect with local brides so together they can create the wedding the bride and groom have always dreamed of.
Our heartfelt thanks to all the amazingly talented people that have contributed to this very first issue. We would be totally lost without you. Please see the next page for a complete list of all our new Smitten friends. As this is our very first issue, (and we’re just a tad excited to be bringing it to you!) we’d love to hear what you think of it. Please drop us a line at info@smittenmagazine.com.au and share your thoughts. We think you’ll be Smitten,
Nat and Erin
Don’t miss the next issue of Smitten Magazine, subscribe now. Just signup at www.smittenmagazine.com.au/subscribe
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Contributors PHOTOGRAPHERS ANGELA HIGGINS
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Angela captured the special moments of Nicole and Ranjit’s wedding day, see page 19. Based in Perth, Angela started her own photography business after leaving her ‘real’ job in 2009 because “I fell in love with the intimacy of weddings, they still make my heart leap into my throat.” Knot.com.au names Angela one of the 10 best Wedding Photographers in Australia.
www.angelahiggins.com
BLAKENEY PHOTOGRAPHY Tehani and Duncan’s wedding on page 30 was photographed by Stephen Blakeney from Blakeney Photography. Based in Margaret River, they were the perfect choice for a down south wedding.
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www.blakeneyphotography.com
SAMM BLAKE
RICKY AND CO PHOTOGRAPHY Kiera and Chad’s Bali wedding on page 48 was captured by Ricky from Ricky & Co Photography. Based in Denpasar Bali, Ricky & Co have several branch offices throughout the region and also offer wedding videography. They have been appointed official photographer for several major hotels throughout Bali and currently photograph over 150 weddings every year.
WOODHOUSE CREATIVE Woodhouse Creative photographed Anna and AJ’s at home wedding on page 39. Their easygoing personality and natural candid style were the perfect match for this relaxed affair. Woodhouse Creative are located in Shenton Park. www.woodhousecreative.com.au
Samm photographed Asha and Gerard’s wedding on page 13. Samm currently lives in Melbourne but travels often to Perth and during her seven year career has traipsed all over the world accompanied by her camera. Samm has twice been recognised as one of Australia’s Top 10 Wedding Photographers by Capture Magazine. www.sammblake.com.au
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Smitten Magazine would not be here without our muchloved contributors. There aren’t enough words to express how grateful we are for their support. Thanks to each and every one of them for becoming part of Smitten.
ARTICLES
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48
KIERA LOAN
ANN LORD
Owning and running Eufloria by the Beach in North Beach, Kiera has been creating gorgeous blooms for brides for many years. Her deep love and extensive knowledge of flowers is evident on page 45 in the article ‘All About Blooms’. She also features in ‘Island Getaway’ on page 48 in her wedding to Chad.
Sharing her many years of experience as a civil marriage celebrant Ann wrote ‘Choosing a Celebrant’ on page 28. Ann is one of Perth's modern generation of younger celebrants bringing a relaxed, fresh approach to every wedding. www.annlord.com.au
www.eufloria.com.au
LEAH DENT
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Mesdame Dent of Mitchell and Dent loves nothing more than good manners, beautiful stationery and a well written personal note. She brings her knowledge, and love of all things proper to the wedding etiquette piece, ‘What to Do’ on page 56.
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www.mitchellanddent.com.au
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Vintage Charm Many of today’s brides are besotted with styling of the reception; gorgeous tables, candy buffets and decorations all work together to create a truly enchanting atmosphere that is a faithful reflection of the happy couple’s personal style. Opting for a vintage style wedding means brides can indulge their love of the finer things in life while putting together a look that is all about the tiny details.
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The perfect setting for a stylish afternoon reception
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1 & 2 Event: First Comes Love Styling: Chandelabra Hire items: Antiquitea Photography: Angela Higgins
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3 & 4 Event: First Comes Love Styling: Debra Hayes Hire items: Hire Society Photography: Angela Higgins
Event: First Comes Love Dress: Elvi Design Company Flowers: Flower Talk Beauty and styling: All of the Above Creative Photography: Angela Higgins
6 & 7 Event: First Comes Love Stationery: Dizzy Wizzy Design Styling and hire items: Her Handpicked Harvest Flowers: Code Bloom Photography: Angela Higgins
bow tie for the groom from Poppy and Finch
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A candy bar in delicate pink. Is there anything sweeter?
A 50s inspired wedding frock with a classic hairstyle – very vintage
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Cute IDEA
7 7
SOMETHING
blue
If you’re one for little wedding traditions, then you’ll be needing something blue to complete your wedding. If you’re not wearing something blue then perhaps your table can. Blue is calming and tranquil, the perfect hue to allow you to relax and enjoy your wedding now that all the stress and anticipation of the planning is over.
Keep the table clean and natural for a relaxed yet elegant feel.
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Event: Wedding Upmarket Bowls: Eucalypt Homewares Photography: Bottega Photography
2 & 3 Event: Wedding Upmarket Stationery: Dizzy Wizzy Design Dinnerware, tea light holders and vases: Eucalypt Homewares Cutlery and venue: Mosmans Styling: Design Merchants Flowers: Tamara Harrision Design Photography: Bottega Photography
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Event: Wedding Upmarket Bowls: Eucalypt Homewares Photography: Bottega Photography
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Event: First Comes Love Dress: Katya Bridal Photography: Angela Higgins
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Unique gift idea for guests
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SIMPLY
chic
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SUMMER 1
Breeze 2
M
any of these photos were taken at two exciting new events on the Perth wedding calendar – First Comes Love and Wedding Upmarket. Both cater for the discerning WA bride, offering an opportunity for stylish young couples in love to meet and greet local wedding vendors. More info can be found online at www.firstcomeslove.com.au and www.perthupmarket.com.au. Be sure to keep an eye out for next year’s event dates.
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Summer nuptials mean colour – dresses, flowers, decorations. Keep you and your guests cool and refreshed throughout the evening with drinks a-plenty, cute paper straws and mini bottles perfect for mingling. Book a venue with a water view and you’ll be the breeziest bride there is. 1&2 Event: First Comes Love Styling and Hire: Bride + Groom Stationery: Mitchell and Dent Flowers: Code Bloom Photography: Angela Higgins 3
Event: First Comes Love Dress: Katya Bridal Photography: Angela Higgins
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Event: First Comes Love Flowers: Flower Talk Wedding dress: Loui Col Photography: Angela Higgins
5&6 Dress: Elvi Design 7
Cookie Dough Biscuits
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Dresses in all colours of the rainbow
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w w w. n i c o l l e v e r s t e e g . c o m
info@nicolleversteeg.com
0439 915 161
photos: www.sammblake.com
GOING to theCHAPEL
asha and gerard
10th april 2010
Gerard proposed to Asha on the final night of their holiday in the Greek Islands. He got down on bended knee and popped the question at midnight outside a beautiful Greek church. It seems like a fairytale proposal and the fairytale continued right through to the end of the wedding day ending in Asha and Gerard living happily ever after. Living overseas while trying to put together a wedding in Perth was never going to be easy but as in every fairytale the princess had the help of a fairy godmother. For this wedding the fairy godmother appeared in the form of Jenn Veza from The Original Wedding Company. Asha and Jenn created every little girl’s dream with an abundance of gorgeous blooms, a classical music trio and a candy buffet complete with lashings of pale pink.
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l Beauotimfus blo
While Asha wouldn’t change a single thing about the day, other than making it last forever, she does concede she may have included a couple more flowers if given the chance. “I would have really gone nuts by adding more flowers! I could have covered every inch of the church and reception in peonies.”
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After being married in the historic Christ Church in Claremont, Asha and Gerard treated their guests to a gorgeous reception at Acqua Viva, overlooking the Swan River. This idyllic view was the prefect setting to enjoy the ambient sounds of Les Trois Amies, a flute, violin and cello trio. And later to boogie the night away to a DJ from Goldbass Records.
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ith a three tier cake covered in pale pink roses and tied with white satin ribbon and a very generous candy buffet, those of us with a sweet tooth would have been quite at home at this wedding.
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bride SMITTEN? WHAT HAD THE
“I loved the romance and tradition of the church ceremony. Saying my wedding vows to my husband in front of our family and closest friends was the most special part of the day.�
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Asha and Gerard spent their first couple of weeks together as husband and wife relaxing in the Maldives before returning to their home in Dubai.
of
SOURCES WEDDING LOVELINESS WEDDING FROCK: Pallas www.pallas.com.au
MUSIC: Les Trois Amies www.lestroisamies.com.au
SHOES: Jimmy Choo www.jimmychoo.com
DJ: Goldbass Records www.goldbass.com.au
JEWELS: vintage
PHOTOGRAPHER: Samm Blake www.sammblake.com
BRIDESMAIDS FROCKS: Venus Subiaco www.facebook.com/venussubiaco FLORIST: Natural Art by Rebecca Grace BEAUTY: Sorossi Style Team www.naturalartflowers.com.au www.sorossi.com CAKE: Rochelle Adonis GROOM’S ATTIRE: tailor www.rochelleadonis.com made in Dubai STATIONERY: Wren Press GROOMSMEN ATTIRE: www.wrenpress.com.au tailor made in Dubai TRANSPORT: Hughes RINGS: designed by Asha and www.hugheslimousines.com.au created by a diamond dealer in Dubai PLANNER: The Original Wedding Company VENUE: ceremony at www.originalweddingcompany.com.au Christ Church Claremont, reception at Acqua Viva www.jojosrestaurant.com
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Iâ?¤NY
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photos: www.angelahiggins.com
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7th may 2011
nicole and ranjit
Nicole and Ranjit had originally hoped to elope to New York, setting themselves an ambitious task of planning their wedding in just four months – from the other side of the world. As sometimes happens with weddings though, things don’t always go to plan and they decided to get married here and with a bit more time in WA. Planning still wasn’t easy, but at least the distance from their home in Queensland to Perth was slightly less than that to New York. Not wanting to forget their New York plans, after all it was also the place where they had become engaged, they brought some little pieces of New York to Margaret River. Guests received items handmade by New York artists - coasters with nostalgic images of the city, glass map magnets, notebooks and there was even a shortbread iced Statue Of Liberty.
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Not being one for tradition, Nicole kind of skipped the whole old, new, borrowed and blue thing and simply had a tiny little blue ribbon sewn into her dress and wore a pair of blue diamond earrings Ranjit had given as a wedding gift. As gorgeous as Nicole’s shoes were, they nearly didn’t make it to the wedding at all. They were left behind in Queensland but a close friend rushed in to save the day (and the shoes), collecting them from their house and couriering them across the country. They arrived in the nick of time.
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aw papitehr rsitbrbon w
Nicogleue'ssttabokoek on a Being a clever little cookie Nicole created much of the little bits and pieces herself. She designed the invitations, place settings, ceremony and thank you cards and even sewed little ribbons to the paper straws. Not content with a ‘normal’ guest book the couple had a large puzzle crafted with their photo on the front. Guests choose a piece, wrote a message and added it to the puzzle.
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bride
WHAT HAD THE SMITTEN?
“The moment Ranjit and I laid eyes on each other!”
Engaged in New York, living in Queensland, getting married in WA - Nicole and Ranjit clearly aren’t the sort to sit still for too long. A move to NSW is on the cards then more travelling once their son Julian is a bit older. Perhaps they will see New York again after all? After enjoying a leisurely afternoon of croquet and boules, guests were treated to an outdoor dining experience, seated at long white tables under an open marquee overlooking the Indian Ocean.
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g n i n n u St ARET G R A M RIVER
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Cute IDEA
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SOURCES
of WEDDING LOVELINESS
WEDDING FROCK: Karen Willis Holmes, Brisbane www.karenwillisholmes.com.au SHOES: Ralph Lauren www.ralphlauren.com GROOM’S ATTIRE: Precision Tailors, Brisbane www.precisiontailors.com.au
GROOMSMEN ATTIRE: Mandurah Formal Wear www.mandurahformalwear.com.au RINGS: Diamond Jewellery Studio (Nick Ireland) www.diamondjewellerystudio.com.au VENUE: ceremony and reception at Incognito Escape, Margaret River www.incognitoescape.com.au PHOTOGRAPHER: Angela Higgins www.angelahiggins.com FLORIST: Vintage Bloom www.vintagebloom.com.au CAKE: Edible Art www.edibleart.com.au and stand from Clara French Ceramique www.clarafrench.com
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CHOOSING YOUR CELEBRANT If you’ve decided that perhaps a church service isn’t for you, then you need to find a celebrant to marry you to ensure everything is done properly and you are legally husband and wife at the completion of the ceremony. Ann Lord, Civil Marriage Celebrant, shares some pearls of wisdom in how to choose your celebrant. It’s not quite as easy as you may think… Selecting the person to be the one declaring you husband and wife should be one of the ‘biggies’ in planning your wedding. Your ceremony is the one chance to have someone convey your love for each other in front of your family and friends. In Australia you can be married by a minister of religion, by a state or territory registry officer or by an authorised civil marriage celebrant. Apart from a few mandatory elements, getting married by a civil celebrant means your ceremony can be as traditional or as contemporary as you like. Celebrants complete an official course of study, apply to the Australian Government’s Attorney-General’s Department for authorisation and participate in professional learning. 28
Here are my top tips for choosing your celebrant; • Ensure your celebrant is authorised by the Australian Government’s AttorneyGeneral’s Department and participates in ongoing professional learning. • Start with the celebrant’s website and/or Facebook page. Call them before you decide to meet, or exchange a few emails to ‘get a feel’ for their personality. You should feel comfortable in contacting your celebrant whenever you need to. • Do they offer an ‘obligation free’ meeting so you can meet in person before committing to having them involved. • The celebrant needs to be able to competently take care of all legal requirements. If they are unsure things can easily go wrong. • Do they have photos or examples of other ceremonies they have conducted so you can ensure they will be suitable for your service? • What’s the background of your celebrant? While older celebrants may have more experience a younger celebrant can bring new ideas. • Can they help you write your own vows and do they have lots of samples and ideas for your ceremony? • What sorts of things are included in the fee? Do they have a PA system with two microphones that can play music from an iPod or CD? • Is your celebrant a member of a professional association? Membership of a group such as the Australian Federation of Civil Celebrants shows a commitment to the profession and access to a network of experienced colleagues.
Ann Lord is a civil marriage celebrant based in Perth. She is a wife and mother of two young children and balances her work as a celebrant with mummy duties and part time work in the education sector. Follow her blog at www.annlord.com.au
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Oh so cute 30
photos: www.blakeneyphotography.com
TEHANI AND DUNCAN 5th NOVEMBER 2010
The groom holds a badge, ‘this wedding rocks’ while the bride’s declares ‘I love the groom’. It’s the unique details that make this Margaret River wedding simply adorable. The elegance of the wedding day was a far cry from the proposal. Duncan proposed on the Nobby’s Head pier in NSW, the place he first told Tehani he loved her. However, unlike that first day, Duncan had to contend with an exquisitive seagull and the resulting messy shirt. But, like the old wives tale goes, it did bring good luck as Tehani said yes and they set about planning their down south wedding.
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Guests
were invited to play boules, share brightly coloured sweets from lolly jars and dress up in the photo booth. The day was all about relaxed fun, with a chic twist.
SwREeAeTtS T
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Tehani and Duncan wrote their own vows, with the ceremony being the first time the couple shared them. Tehani fondly recalls, “Duncan got quite emotional and even used a quote from Hamlet, which is even more special as Duncan is very much a man’s man.”
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Although the wedding may not have been traditional in the true sense of the word, Tehani’s sister and best friend ensured some traditions weren’t overlooked. The bride wore something old, a pin from Tehani’s mum; something new, the wedding dress; something borrowed, the stunning crystal bracelet and something blue, the garter.
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DIY
NG
I BUNT
The inspiration for the wedding soundtrack was Jason Mraz’s song ‘I’m Yours’. With lyrics like, "This is our fate, I’m yours" it’s not hard to see why this song is so meaningful to Tehani and Duncan. Even the bunting strung up on a vineyard fence proclaimed the same sentiment. The song played as the happy couple arrived at their reception and when they left at the end of the festivities.
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TEHANI AND DUNCAN'S
Sources of
wedding lovelieness
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WEDDING FROCK AND JEWELS: Hob Nob Bridal www.hobnobbridal.com.au
SHOES: Small boutique in Perth City Arcade specialising in custom made shoes
BRIDESMAIDS FROCKS: Melbourne designer who has since closed shop
GROOM’S ATTIRE: Grey Italian suit and salmon shirt and shoes from Italy
GROOMSMEN ATTIRE: Own black suits with salmon shirts from Gazman www.gazman.com.au
RINGS: Blue Nile engagement ring www.bluenile.com, wedding rings from Rosendorffs www.rosendorffs.com
VENUE: Ceremony and reception at Vasse Felix Winery www.vassefelix.com.au
PHOTOGRAPHY: Blakeney Photography www.blakeneyphotography.com
FLORIST: Fi South Australia
CAKE: Edible Art www.edibleart.com.au
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photo: sammblake.com
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For one-of-a-kind wedding invitations, personalised stationery, gift tags and note cards.
www.dizzywizzydesign.com.au
There’s no place like home photos: www.woodhousecreative.com.au
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and
19.03.1 1
DA TUR Y SA
Saturday 19th March 2011 What better way to enter a wedding venue than through a bright pink door tied up with a sparkly black and white bow? The unique details of this wedding don’t stop at the door, with the couple tying the knot on a red carpeted platform over a swimming pool in the backyard of Anna’s family home. After being pronounced husband and wife Anna and AJ mingled and partied with guests throughout the evening. When it came time to hit the dance floor the happy couple kicked off with ‘Because of You’ by Unwritten Law, with lyrics like “Because of you my dreams came true. Because of you.” 40
WHAT HAD THE BRIDE SMITTEN?
“Walking down the aisle and seeing AJ cry”
Anna and AJ went with a classic theme of white and black with flashes of red. The bride was elegantly stylish in a short white dress, with her bridesmaids contrasting in all black frocks. The small deep red rose bouquets perfectly completed the girls’ sophisticated look.
photos: www.woodhousecreative.com.au
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g Somertohwined bor
g n i h t e Somnew
Every bride gives thought to wearing something old, new, borrowed and blue and Anna was no certainly different. The something old – Ann’s bra, something new – the wedding dress, something borrowed – a pearl bracelet from her mum, something blue – a little bow on Anna’s underwear.
After all the excitement of getting engaged and married Anna and AJ are looking forward to taking it easy for a while. And if Anna gets her way, there’ll be a furry little puppy addition to the family very soon.
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Vows
Anna was lucky enough to find her dream wedding planner, someone she trusted and could rely on to fulfill her every wedding wish – her mum. Anna claims there’s not a single little thing she would change about her wedding, so mum must have done a great job!
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Sources of
wedding loveliness WEDDING FROCK:
Galleria Couture www.galleriacouture.com SHOES:
Tony Bianco www.tonybianco.com.au JEWELS:
Alannah Hill www.alannahhill.com.au BRIDESMAIDS FROCKS:
Bardot www.bardot.com.au GROOM’S & GROOMSMEN ATTIRE:
Roger David www.rogerdavid.com.au RINGS:
Solid Gold www.solidgoldjewellers.com.au VENUE:
Ceremony and reception at Anna’s family home PHOTOGRAPHER:
Woodhouse Creative www.woodhousecreative.com.au FLORIST:
Eufloria www.eufloria.com.au CAKE:
Sweet On Cupcakes www.sweetoncupcakes.com.au
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All ABOUT BLOOMS Kiera Loan from Eufloria by the Beach shares her love of all things flower related and lets us in on a few secrets on what brides are loving this wedding season. WHAT ARE WEST AUSSIE BRIDES SMITTEN WITH AT THE MOMENT? “They are definitely smitten with making their weddings unique and reflecting the personalities of both Mr and Mrs within their flower choices. Incorporating cute and quirky styling to show a “home-made/ just picked” touch filled with love.
photos: www.ericaserena.com
Flowers making brides swoon for spring are the delicate, almost paper like petals of ranunculas; these seasonal blooms are a delight to work with and they just can’t get enough of these gorgeous flowers during their short season. Teamed with old fashioned spray roses, blossom, freesia, lilac and anenome, they make for a perfect just picked posy.”
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Take
a peep at Kiera’s wedding to Chad on page 48 then pop in to see her at Eufloria, 117c Flora Terrace North Beach or give her a call on 9448 0449. Tell Kiera Smitten sent you… photos: www.ericaserena.com 46
TRADITIONAL OR CONTEMPORARY STYLING? “I am a lover of all styling. When planning and creating flowers for an event I believe that listening to and interpreting the clients personal style are the key to creating the perfect style, whether it be traditional, grand, contemporary, minimal or quirky. Flowers bring an event to life and should be the ultimate accessory to complete the bride’s perfect look and portray her personal style.”
ADVICE FOR BRIDES?
Spring
FAVOURITES blossom freesia lilac anenome peonie
“Enjoy every moment of planning your wedding; choose suppliers and people who understand your personal style and are excited to be part of your special day. Then trust them. Leave it up to the experts to guide you and choose from the best, seasonal blooms available.”
U C nique,
ustomised,
G
orgeous
ranuncula stephanotis rhododendron
Summer
FAVOURITES david austin rose dahlia gardenia hydrangea bouvardia jasmine
Wedding stationery that is designed exclusively for you. Please call for an appointment or send us your request. After hour consultations are available for busy brides and grooms.
P: 08 9382 8814 E: info@invitesofdistinction.com.au Office D, Level 1, 150 Hay Street Subiaco, Western Australia 6008
www.invitesofdistinction.com.au
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what had the
bride smitten?
“PUTTING ON MY DRESS THEN ARRIVING TO SEE CHAD SO HANDSOME IN HIS SUIT.”
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photos: Ricky and Co Photography
ISLAND GETAWAY KIERA AND CHAD | 5 JUNE 2011
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Jewel
S TONE E H T FOR AIDS ESM R B ID
With Kiera working in the wedding industry as a florist, escaping to Bali was the perfect way for her and Chad to enjoy every moment of their special day without worrying about what was happening behind the scenes. This certainly paid off as the only thing that went wrong all day was the bride chipping a nail! The couple spent two weeks in Bali, giving them heaps of time to catch up and relax with all their friends and family who had flown in for the celebrations.
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K&C
CANGGU º BALI º INDONESIA
Love these
blooms? Drop by and visit Kiera at Eufloria for all your wedding blossoms
Being a creative sort and working as a florist Kiera created her bridal bouquet, the bridesmaid’s handheld corsages, the buttonholes and handheld corsages for their Mums. Kiera also designed the ceremony and reception flowers then watched them come to life with the assistance of local florist Vino from D’Oasis.
The only thing Kiera would change about her wedding? Having another one! “As one day just isn’t enough.” And of course more flowers… there’s no such thing as too many flowers for a florist.
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the
proposal
Chad proposed to Kiera with the assistance of a French Bulldog puppy. He secretly flew the pup from interstate, collected him from the airport, kept him quiet all night and surprised Kiera in the morning. How could anyone say no to that proposal? Oh, the puppy’s name? Louis George. He is French after all. photo: www.loadedbarrel.com.au
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Check
OUT THE BACKDROP
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s of Sourceing wedd ess lovelin WEDDING FROCK & JEWELS: Annette’s of Melbourne www.annetteofmelbourne.com.au SHOES: ceremony shoes from Chloe at David Jones, reception shoes from Cinderella Bella Bridal shoes, both in Melbourne www.cinderellabella.com.au BRIDESMAIDS FROCKS: Black frock from Zimmerman, www.zimmermannwear.com, colour frocks from Sana Boutique, www.sanaboutique.com.au GROOM’S ATTIRE: Parker & Co www.parkerco.com.au GROOMSMEN ATTIRE: Parker & Co and Brittons Formal Wear www.brittonsformalwear.com.au RINGS: Egoli, Place of Gold VENUE: Ceremony and reception at Puri Bawana, Canggu, Bali www.puribawana.com PHOTOGRAPHER: Ricky & Co, Bali FLORIST: Ceremony and reception blooms were designed by Kiera and created by Vino from D’Oasis www.d-oasisflorist.com STATIONERY: Dizzy Wizzy Design www.dizzywizzydesign.com.au CAKE: Dessert buffet from Bali Catering Company www.balicateringcompany.com with carrot cake for cutting from Ixora Cakes www.ixoracakes.com
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WHAT TO DO?
Weddings can be tricky things at the best of times – venues, dresses, guests, its enough to put any bride or guest in a tizz. Well, now you can relax a little as Mesdames Mitchell and Dent come to the rescue, helping make the daunting world of wedding etiquette just a tad less confusing.
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Presents or presence? Q We have been invited to an overseas wedding. The invitation included a gift registry card asking guests to contribute cash. Travel and accommodation is already costing us a significant amount of money and I’m a little put off about being asked to give cash. Do I have to give a cash gift? Is my presence enough? A Oh my. This is indeed a conundrum. The mesdames believe there is sweetness in choosing something special for a couple, as one must consider both the bride and the groom and make a selection that will delight them both equally in their new lives together. A monetary gift is amity made easy and Madame Mitchell is certain your friends are being considerate in their suggestion, saving you the anguish of excessive choice and fees for excess baggage. Madame Dent however, thinks a little differently. She suspects they’re greedy gits.
invitations to your wedding. The first is sent to overseas invitees and has an early RSVP date. Once it is known who will be attending from abroad, you may make decisions regarding who can be accommodated closer to home. However, let it be said that mesdames Mitchell and Dent are astonished to think you would consider inviting B-, C- or D-list guests to hobnob with the special people in your lives. As A-listers ourselves, we’d prefer not to be found fraternising unexpectedly with the likes of Kyle Sandilands.
To B or not to B Q I’m inviting quite a few interstate and overseas friends to our wedding. I’m not expecting all of them to be able to attend. I’m actually hoping some of them can’t! Is it ok to have a ‘B list’ of guests who I can invite if some people can’t attend? A In the modern global community we all now live in, it is perfectly acceptable to make ready with two
elvi
- Award-winning Bridal & Eveningwear Designers- designed & made in WAContact Sandra or Birgitta for a design consultation. M 0417 180 417 E elvidesign@live.com.au F www.facebook.com/elvidesigncompany
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Really? Me? Q My husband and I have recently been invited to a wedding that we really weren’t expecting to be. I haven’t been in touch with the bride for over ten years after falling out at high school, I’ve never met the groom. I actually didn’t even know they were engaged until I got the invitation. My husband has never met either the bride or groom. I’m not sure if I really want to attend the wedding as I don’t think I will know anyone else there and I’m sure my husband won’t either. To be honest I really can’t be bothered. Should I go? A Madame Mitchell fancies your former friend is reaching out across the years with an olive branch of peace in the form of an invitation, but if you believe it isn’t so, she suggests you decline. There is no joy to be had at the expense of others, especially when it is so expensive to wine and dine two people in any setting of societal standing, wedding-wise. Whereas Madame Dent says, “Why not treat yourselves to a free night out, funded by the old foe?”.
Mum, Dad and many more Q My parents separated many years ago and have both since remarried. I’m close to both my step-parents. Our wedding is very traditional so I want the invitation to be just from my ‘real’ parents. To confuse things my step-father’s sister, who I’m also very close to, is very generously contributing a large amount to the cost of the wedding. My mum is insisting that she be included on the invitations too, along with both step parents, as a way of recognising their generosity. I would rather just have my ‘real’ parent names included. How do I get around this? A Mitchell and Dent suggest, “Together with their families, {you} and {your beau} invite you to their wedding…”. Easy. Peasy.
Mesdames Mitchell & Dent hold in high esteem the proper practices of societal intercourse and whilst they may consider a clumsy curtsy a forgivable fault; they find ugliness in personal paperware simply unacceptable. They wantonly abandoned the hoopla and hubbub of the modern world to embrace vintage printing and believe the humble letterpressed piece of paper is universally acknowledged to be an effacious mode of delivering delightful discourse. From the most jaunty of jottings to the most ceremonial of celebratory invitations, Mitchell & Dent assert that the circulation of ephemera of note will prompt glee and giddy appreciation. Mitchell & Dent can be found online at www.mitchellanddent.com.au
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SMITTEN STYLE FILE
ANGELA HIGGINS Angela Higgins is the only photographer who takes the time to find and document what is personal to real, open- hearted, fabulous people who appreciate quality and craftsmanship. The connection Angela Higgins nurtures with her couples allows her to capture the intimacy of weddings, which to this day still makes her heart leap into her throat. e: angela@angelahiggins.com
EUFLORIA With a love of all things pretty and the fussiest attention to details, eufloria create bespoke floral weddings, stylish events and decadent soirees for fashionable brides. Call 9448 0449 and speak to Kiera or Rose to book an appoinment.
www.angelahiggins.com
p: 9448 0449 e: flowers@eufloria.com.au
ANN LORD
INVITES OF DISTINCTION
Ann is one of Perth's modern generation of younger celebrants bringing a relaxed, fresh approach to your wedding day. With a background in education and psychology, it is her privilege to guide you and your partner through this exciting time and be the one to declare you ‘husband and wife’.
www.eufloria.com.au
Invites of Distinction is a design house that creates beautiful, customised wedding Stationery. Everything is created exclusively for you, so your personal style is reflected throughout your wedding. Please call for an appointment. After hour consultations are available for busy brides and grooms.
p: 0417 918 095 e: lords@westnet.com.au
p: 9382 8814 e: info@invitesofdistinction.com.au
www.annlord.com.au
www.invitesofdistinction.com.au
DANICIA DUTRY
LILLYBUDS
It is in the shelter of each other that people live; - Irish Proverb Civil Celebrant Danicia Dutry offers besoke, creative and individual ceremonies for couples embarking on the journey of their lives. She draws on her 17 years of professional communications and research experience to provide a professional and personal service. p: 0409 089 532 e: hello@daniciadutryceremonies.com
Lillybuds creates heirloom quality, distinctive bridal bouquets, for divinely different wedding parties. Designed and crafted with quality materials including vintage treasures, buttons, paper and feathers, Lillybuds bouquets, buttonholes and accessories are beautiful keepsakes to mark the special day in your life. Lillybuds, fall in love all over again.
e: sales@lillybuds.com
www.daniciadutryceremonies.com
www.lillybuds.com
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SMITTEN STYLE FILE
MITCHELL & DENT Mesdames Mitchell and Dent are purveyors of paper ephemera of note. They wantonly abandoned the hoopla and hubbub of the modern world to embrace vintage printing – letterpress artwork, greetings, custom stationery and invitations befitting the most stylish of homes, celebrations, proclamations and weddings. P: 9242 4333 e: mesdames@mitchellanddent.com.au
www.mitchellanddent.com.au
NICOLLE VERSTEEG Meet Nicolle Versteeg. Appreciated for the detailed and natural style of portraying people, Nicolle thinks outside the box and understands that every couple has their own story to tell. She will capture your wedding in a personal and unique way. p: 0439 915 161 e: info@nicolleversteeg.com
With over seven years experience in photography, Samm has travelled all over the world capturing special moments in people's lives, especially weddings. Photography is her life, passion and obsession. She lives and breathes it every day. e: iloveyoursmile@sammblake.com
www.sammblake.com
STEPHEN BLAKENEY Blakeney Photography is a well established wedding photography business based in Margaret River. They ensure the images from your wedding day are unique and their experience in the region ensures they find the perfect backdrop for your wedding photography wherever on the Cape you choose to get married. e: ido@blakeneyphotography.com
www.nicolleversteeg.com
www.blakeneyphotography.com
the original wedding company
WOODHOUSE CREATIVE
The Original Wedding Company is a team of first class wedding planners with a fresh perspective to wedding design and coordination, coupled with a deep understanding of traditional wedding etiquette. Our commitment to creating unique and unforgettable weddings has positioned us as the wedding planning company of choice for stylish and savvy couples. p: 0407 081 756 e: info@originalwedding.com.au
www.originalwedding.com.au
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SAMM BLAKE
Woodhouse Creative pride themselves on capturing natural, candid images which express the distinctive spirit of each occasion. The team of photographers have an unashamed love of their job, letting them capture the most intimate moments of your day in an unobtrusive way, allowing your love to unfold before the lens. e: photos@woodhousecreative.com.au
www.woodhousecreative.com.au
NEXT ISSUE
The autumn issue of Smitten Magazine is out February 2012, filled with more beautiful West Aussie weddings, inspiration and loveliness. We’ll be posting sneak peeks on our website so please drop in every so often to check what’s new.
SUBSCRIBE
Be the first to read Smitten Magazine. Subscribe on our website and get the magazine before everyone else plus all the latest offerings from local wedding experts.
CONTRIBUTE
We’re always on the lookout for clever WA people in the wedding industry. If you would like to be part of Smitten Magazine by contributing photos, products, articles or anything else please do send us an email, info@smittenmagazine.com.au
ADVERTISE
Want to get in touch with local stylish brides? If you’re a wedding business based in Western Australia, or can service the state, we’d love nothing more than to showcase your products and/or services to our readers. Browse our media kit on our website or drop us a line at info@smittenmagazine.com.au
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We'll be keeping you posted on what we, and our Smitten friends, are up to on our Facebook page. Like us, www.facebook.com/smittenmagazine
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