White Magazine |Wedding and Marriage | Issue 38 (Freedom)

A MARRIAGE AS BEAUTIFUL A S Y O U R W E D D I N G D AY

AUS $15 / NZ $16 ISSUE #38 : 2017 ISSN 1834-3589

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Photography by Athena Grace

A LETTER FROM THE EDITOR Welcome to our Freedom Issue! When we started dreaming up this beauty, we couldn’t get away from the idea of being free and what this could look like in your marriage. The picture I had in my mind was one free of inhibitions, where you can throw your arms back and dance like no-one was watching—no fear or shame. But being free also takes standing your ground and fighting for what you know to be true. What has evolved between the beautiful imagery is some rather personal stories and I hope inspiration for you both on your journey.

Let’s take a couple steps back though before we delve into the goodness. Take a moment to think about your life and the freedoms you have as an individual. For us here in Australia, we have incredible education and health care, we have freedom of speech, and the list goes on. Yet even with ALL of this, we can still feel completely bound. I recognised this feeling in myself late last year. There were so many times where I’d unknowingly let fear stop me in my tracks; for me, it was a fear of people. I found myself holding back because I was scared what others might say, think or do and it had me trapped. I’ve come to realise that true freedom is something within us that we must take hold of, draw a line in the sand and invite our heart and mind to step up to the plate. When I was operating out of fear, anger or insecurity, I wasn’t allowing others to really see my true self and I wasn’t being everything that I could be. I believe we all have an innate goodness in our depths, but somewhere along the way it gets lost in all this fear rubbish.

To be able to give my best to Luke, I have to be my best. But in order to be my best, I have to let go of the things holding me back. I’ve had an image in my head illustrating this; it’s of a super cute dog on a leash that really wants the ball, but it’s just out of reach! It seems as though there is absolutely nothing the dog can do to reach that ball.

She can pull and tug all she wants at the leash, but will never be able to get to the ball … unless she is released.

The leash is like our fear and insecurities—it keeps us from reaching what we really want.

I’m pretty sure I want more for my life than being stuck on a leash. I want to scream into the wind and dance like I don’t care who’s watching. I want to stand tall and be all of who I’m meant to be, not just for me, but for everyone around me. It will take time and hard work, and I will need support, but I need to face this fear, drop the false selfpreservation and expose myself to truly becoming one with my love. Who better to travel through life with than the one you’re most free with.

m a d e w i t h l o v e b r i d a l . c o m

ISSUE THIRTY EIGHT DECEMBER 2017 publishers luke + carla burrell

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EDITOR’S LETTER CONTRIBUTORS WHITE LOVES

editor + creative director carla burrell carla@whitemag.com

deputy editor cassandra holland cassie@whitemag.com

online editor athena stricklin

planning

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THIS IS US FREEDOM TO CR AFT YOUR OWN UNI QUE WEDDI NG

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FREE SPIRIT NZ VENDOR S SHARE THEI R CR EATI VI TY

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PERFECT PAPER SWEET, EDGY OR ROMANTI C STATI ONERY

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NATURAL ALLURE SOFT

athena@whitemag.com

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designed by mezzanine.co ryan stuart, mylan chen-ough interns ashley steele, brianna clipperton, sharna kosmeier

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LOOKS

FOR A SER ENE B R I DE

TO EACH THEIR OWN BEI NG

YOUR

OWN BR I DE

cover photo benj haisch

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editorial contributors emma plant, liz milani, michael cauchi, sharon luecke

IF THE SHOE FITS STATEMENT HEELS FOR YOUR BI G DAY

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SHE IS LIBERTY FASHI ON

photographic contributors alex carlyle, amelia fullarton, benj haisch, bianca virtue, elk & willow, I got you babe, india earl, jordan voth, joseph willis, são paulo fotografia, susannah blatchford photography, the robertsons photography, tish carlson, we are origami photography creative contributors chiali meng artistry, inkling design, jeanette getrost, mg hair + makeup, mimosa floral, samantha gerard, stacey banfield, sweetpea weddings

subscriptions whitemag.com/shop finance accounts@whitemag.com phone +61 02 4915 6511

THAT I S

FULL OF LI GHT

wedding

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LISA + JAMIE LISA + TOM ATHENA + CAMRON CASEY + ALEX SHAREE + NIK KAYLA + BRYCE JESS + MIKE

address 61 parry street newcastle nsw 2300

relationships submissions whitemag.com/submissions

established by mezzanine.co ABN 31 725 316 171 ~ ISSN 1834-3589.

While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information in this magazine, no responsibility can be accepted by the publisher for inaccuracy or for submissions by organisations or individuals and/ or printers’ errors. © 2017 white Magazine (Aust). All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without permission is strictly prohibited.

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DROPPING THE BALL SUPPOR TI NG

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LOVE’S INVITATION THE FR EEDOM TO B E COMPLETELY OPEN

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FREE TO BE CHALLENGE CULTUR E AS A COUPLE

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STILL THE ONE I LOVE DONA + SEU’S DI AMOND ANNI VER SARY

YOUR SPOUSE

INGA CAMPBELL ILLUSTRATOR

TISH CARLSON PHOTOGRAPHER

SHARON LUECKE WRITER

DAVID ROBERTSON PHOTOGRAPHER

JEANETTE GETROST ILLUSTRATOR

Inga is the talented creative behind Inkling Design, a company that offers art direction, branding, styling, custom illustrations and invitations. Her illustrations have graced the pages of some of the country’s best known magazines, such as Elle, Dolly, Inside Out and Cosmopolitan (Australia and worldwide). @inkling_design

Tish is one-half of a wedding photography duo based in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Alongside her partner, Matt, she travels the world to capture the authentic love between couples on their wedding day. She is an expert in capturing those unseen, cherished moments you want to remember forever. @mattandtish

Sharon Luecke is a writer and the founder/creative director of The Bare Bride.

As the creative brains, she helps everyday women redefine what it means to be a bride and shifts the focus to what matters most: the heart. Sharon lives in Maine, lending her talents to white so we can change the culture behind weddings. @thebarebride

David and his wife Shobana founded The Robertsons Photography to capture the love that takes place at weddings.

As the main photographer, David’s passion for his craft continues to grow after five years in the industry. The Robertsons Photography is based in Newcastle, Australia. @therobertsons photography

Jeanette’s illustrations bring a classic, timeless approach to an everevolving industry, striking the balance between spontaneity and careful curation. She works in a wide variety of media and has contributed illustrations to brands Coach, Dior, Ted Baker, Dolce & Gabbana and Christian Louboutin. @jeanettegetrost

LIZZY MILANI WRITER

BIANCA VIRTUE PHOTOGRAPHER

CHIALI MENG HAIR + MAKEUP ARTIST

EMMA PLANT WRITER

SAMANTHA GERARD STYLIST

Lizzy is the co-founder of the daily devotional app, PocketFuel, with her husband, Jesse. After leaving her full-time job to care for her children, Lizzy found a new hobby in writing, something she now transforms into daily blog posts. Through her words, she encourages people to find truth. @pocketfuel

Bianca is a Melbournebased wedding photographer and former food stylist, with the ability to bring out the beauty in her subjects. She is organised but exercises flexibility to ensure no moment is rushed. Bianca has collaborated with The White Files, Ruffles & Bells and loads more. @biancavirtue

Chiali has been styling brides for over 14 years.

She established an exceptional reputation in Taiwan, but decided to branch out, moving across to the US in 2008. Chiali has a knack for realising each bride’s dream look, and is always updating her skills to stay ahead of the fashion curve. @chialimengartistry

Emma is a wearer of many hats, working as a senior writer for the blog, Girl With a Satchel, while also practicing as a professional hair and makeup artist. She is a lover of all things creative, and you can find more of her editorial work within the pages of Frankie and Yen. girlwithasatchel. blogspot.com.au

As the founder/director of Wild Hearts, Samantha brings her creativity and styling expertise to the wedding industry. Based in Christchurch, with a passion for dreaming big, you’ll find her work in Wild Hearts’ campaigns and magazine, as well as publications such as Together Journal. @samanthagerardstylist

SEARCH OUR VENDOR DIRECTORY

WHTE.CO/DIRECTORY

WHITE LOVES

denim love This funky denim jacket from Auguste the Label gives us the perfect hit of 90s nostalgia with its embroidered flowers and metallic studs. Snatch up this feminine-meets-grunge look at augustethelabel.com

timeless token over the moon Rue De Seine’s latest collection, Moonlight Magic, evokes memories of playing by the sea till dark— a notion well embroidered into these New Zealand gowns. Plunging necklines, fringe accessories and open backs form gowns that are well-matched to a lady who likes to be free. ruedeseine.com

Kerrie Hess’ new Bridal Prints serve as beautifully artistic and timeless bridal keepsakes. Win a stunning illustration at whitemag.com/win or see more of her work at kerriehess.com.au

WIN

stay calm

daily dose Bespoke essential daily vitamins are BEAR’s specialty! The Australian brand uses native plant-based and high-quality laboratory-made ingredients to provide you with the extra boost you need in your day. bearjournal.com

Natio for Men’s Calming Aftershave Balm is suitable for all skin types, so everyone can say goodbye to painful razor burn. It’s non-greasy, and full of natural ingredients such as aloe vera and lemon. The balm soothes and moisturises, making stubborn stubble a thing of the past. natio.com.au

bag it This Cher Tote by Angela Roi will be your luxurious companion on your honeymoon strolls. Crueltyfree and sweatshop-free, there is no guilt standing between you and this beauty. Choose from bordeaux, black, light gray or créme at angelaroi.com

true colours This gorgeous assortment of eye shadows by Adorn Cosmetics is rich in long-lasting colour without the drawback of toxins, animal testing and nasties.

Peruse their makeup at adorncosmetics.com.au

full support Bring boho to summer and prepare for maximum comfort, freedom and a feeling of pretty in Free People’s lace triangle bra. Wear while lounging, partying or online shopping.

Head to freepeople.com to see more of their range of intimates, clothing, fitness gear and accessories.

miracle worker Perfect your complexion with Chantecaille’s perfecting powder. Suitable for all skin types, this miracle powder takes all the fuss out of application with its self-dispensing brush that ensures the correct amount of translucent powder is released. mecca.com.au

WIN

all heart

ring true Break free from tradition and propose to your gal with a ring that is as unique as she is. This stunning pink sapphire by Grew & Co is delicate, romantic, and oozes love.

See more at grewandco.com.au

Combat the overwhelming reality of planning a wedding with “The Heart of the Bride”.

This guided journal by The Bare Bride will help you centre yourself again to focus on what’s really important. It contains over 60 pages of creative writing prompts, powerful quotes, and more! To win a copy, head to whitemag.com/win or see more at thebarebride.com 13

white loves

WHITE LOVES

all cheer When celebrating the happiest day of your life, why not don a pair of cheerfully-named Happy Socks? These funky patterns will put a bounce in your step and will make for epic groomsmen photo opportunities! Pick your delighftul pairs for the entire groom’s party at happysocks.com/au

ocean scents This Vintage Gardenia candle

by Palm Beach Collection is designed for the Australian lifestyle and aesthetic. Inspired by the Sydney beach of the same name, this family-owned business is passionate about their hand-poured candles. palmbeachcollection.com.au

draw attention The artwork of Jeanette Getrost is inspired by high-fashion and beauty, and makes use of watercolour, textured paper, ink and pencils.

This rosy representation of a Giambattista Valli gown is just one of her many beautiful artworks at jeanettegetrost.co

WIN

surf’s up

with grace Philosophy’s best-selling Amazing Grace fragrance has a floral scent and is a testament to their ethos: “Our clean, classic scents whisper, but never shout.” Win a perfume for yourself at whitemag.com/win or find more products at philosophyskincare.com.au

As if specialising in fine jewellery wasn’t enough, Samantha Wills has expanded her brand to include her love of the ocean. In collaboration with rhythmsticks, these surfboards are individually handcrafted and can be totally functional or serve as a great piece of modern artwork! samanthawills.com

perfect peony The Peony nail polish by Kester Black pays homage to the vibrant flower of the same name. This cruelty-free dusky mauve polish is unabashedly feminine, seductive, and with a coat or two you will emanate confidence! kesterblack.com

summer soles Known for providing a range of fashion-forward yet affordable style pieces, Roger David delivers again with their low top sneakers. Boring they are not—there’s an option for every guy! Search for more styles at rogerdavid.com.au

paired up Why choose between round or cat eye sunglasses when you can have both? Bailey Nelson has combined these ageless silhouettes to ensure almost every face type can rock a pair.

Pick your colour at baileynelson.com.au

a new leaf Pastel pink hues are the stand-out feature of this Leafy Luxe invitation suite by the oh-so-talented Kathryn Green. Complete with gold foiling, you can see more at kathryngreen.com.au

S AV E

top it off

in the bag

Shade yourself and make a statement with this 100 per cent wheat straw Pink Velour Boater Hat. This Lack of Color hat is fierce yet feminine, adorned with a dusty pink Swiss velvet ribbon featuring a centre box bow detail. See more at lackofcolor.com.au

Steele & Borough was born to add quality, ethics and fashion to men’s gym bags. Receive 20 per cent off their range by entering WHITEMAG at the checkout. steeleborough.com 15

white loves

WHITE LOVES

drawn together This intricate illustration from Inkling Design is a signature look of Inga Campbell’s creative talent. Founded in 2011, Inkling Design offers commercial illustrations or pieces for weddings. Discover it all at inklingdesign.com.au

S AV E

woven delights Born into a family of creatives, it was destined for Miriam to follow an artistic path. And we’re so lucky that this was in macramé! You can hire some of her beautiful pieces at mimconcepts.com.au

good as gold The Gold Metallic Hobe has just the right level of sophistication to be worn on your wedding day (just think of the comfort!).

Receive 20 per cent off a pair using discount code WHITEMAG at the checkout. au.hobes.co

laced up From top to bottom, these flattering sets from Lonely are the only comfort a free woman needs. Matching the briefs with a delicate bra creates sets that are feminine yet daring. See more of their beautiful range of intimates at lonelylabel.com

sweet tooth Pleasing to the eye and to the tastebuds, Bree’s sweet creations have been a favourite at weddings since she launched The Cake That Ate Paris after years in the profession. See her designs at thecakethatateparis.com.au

smell the roses With every ingredient selected for its therapeutic quality, this all-natural, plant-based organic spritz will leave you feeling refreshed and energised.

Check out more of Herbivore’s earthy skincare concoctions at herbivorebotanicals.com

in suspense Commitment to quality fashion at wallet-friendly prices is at the heart of The Tie Bar’s ethos, making it an obvious match for a man who dresses the same way. These handmade suspenders are a wedding favourite, with plenty of colours to mix and match at thetiebar.com

hidden gem Picture precious nuggets of gilded agate lining the tables of your wedding reception.

BHLDN know just how to bring the goods when it comes to styling, offering a mix of decor and gifts to complete your day. Find more gems at bhldn.com

close shave Harnessing the concentrated essence of violets, this shaving soap by Geo. F. Trumper contains natural therapeutic and skin softening properties, making it perfect for sensitive skin. Find more of their shaving range at mensbiz.com.au

plan ahead wild + free Flared sleeves, off the shoulder cuts and bodycon lace combine to create the oh-so-effortless Les Deux Capsule Collection by Grace Loves Lace. Channel your inner rebel in their gowns inspired by some of history’s greatest femme fatales. Head to graceloveslace.com.au to find your strikingly bold match.

Blacklist has created the ultimate wedding planner, complete with a linen fabric cover and uncoated paper stock, all bound with spiral binding. Get cracking on mapping out your memorable day by purchasing one of these beauties for yourself at blackliststore.com.au

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THIS IS US “YOU HAVE FULL, UNHINDERED PERMISSION TO CRAFT A WEDDING DAY THAT FILLS YOUR SOUL WITH REFRESHING WAVES OF FREEDOM.” Words: Sharon Luecke–The Bare Bride | Photography: Jordan Voth Styling: Casey “Quigley” Carlson–Officially Quigley (bride) | Groom: Alex Goode | Dress: Lovely Bride | Shoes: Chinese Laundry | Hat: The Wise Hatter Earrings: Mad Maven | Flowers: Melissa Tinajero—Moelleux Events

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awn was breaking over the mountains, the ocean was gently greeting the shore next to our modest

camp site, and my husband was strategically adding logs to fuel the fire that would fuel the coffee that would fuel our bones. We sat there that sweet morning, surrounded by trees and coastal Maine views, sipping our brews slowly and accepting the gift that Mother Earth offers to ‘just be’.

And in that moment, I remember my heart whispering three words—“This is us.”

Throughout our lifetimes, we all experience moments that feel inexplicably true to who we are. These moments could be filled with magical levels of serendipitous bliss or even imperfect simplicities that make you feel right at home. But what makes all of these once-in-a-while experiences so special is the sense of freedom that they bring. In that place, at that time, with those people, you are free. And that, my friend, is exactly how you should feel when you arrive at your wedding.

Unfortunately, the dreamy, uninhibited wedding day of freedom is not a story that we hear often. Tales of predominantly wedding day stress, anxiety and disappointment echo in the world around us.

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THIS IS US

Couples are showing up to their own Pinterest-perfect weddings and feeling painfully out of place because they are surrounded by things, faces and environments that are not true to who they are.

In a digital age with unlimited bridal inspiration at your fingertips, it’s easy to spend all of your time planning your dream day by looking solely to outside sources for guidance. And with all of the gorgeous gowns, magazine-worthy place settings and clever wedding favours out there, how could you not go a little Pinterest crazy? Oh yes. I get it. I’ve been there. But the moment you replace the inner-inspiration of who you are with inspiration from the internet—no matter how beautiful it might be—is the moment you sacrifice the intrinsic value of your individuality and the sacredness of your unique love story.

Don’t you know that who you are, quirks and all, is worthy of being seen? Don’t you see that the things that make your love story a one-of-a-kind masterpiece are worthy of being celebrated? Don’t you understand that not even a flawless Pinterest board brought-to-life could outshine a wedding day that was intentionally crafted to display and honour your hearts?

~ “DON’T YOU SEE THAT THE THINGS THAT MAKE YOUR LOVE STORY A ONE-OF-A-KIND MASTERPIECE ARE WORTHY OF BEING CELEBRATED?”

It was a brisk autumn day that I got married. The train of my

life values of peace, intimacy, and naturalness rather than

gown dragged through the leaves and dirt as I made my way

pine for a narrative of glamour and luxury that might look

to the ceremony, tucked into the towering trees of a forest

ideal on the outside but never truly feel like ours. We chose

that was worthy to hold the start of our love story.

to forgo comparison and trust that while our story may not

The evening sun danced through the branches and filled our cathedral of earth with warmth and light and ease. Twenty of

look or feel like anyone else’s, it is those very reasons that we chose it. A love that is ours. A wedding day that is ours.

our dearest friends and family sat in a semicircle of wooden

You have permission to plan a wedding day that is nothing

folding chairs, facing an altar of open space, held between

like anyone else’s and everything like your own. You

two parallel trees.

have permission to hold vast amounts of space for your

There were no extravagant decorations or elaborate designs.

A few framed quotes, lace curtains and a lantern-lined aisle were enough.

values, desires and dreams, even if they aren’t trendy or conventional. You have permission to honour the very individuality that made your partner fall in love with you and made you fall in love with them. You have full, unhindered

And as I arrived, the music sang out of the portable speaker

permission to craft a wedding day that fills your soul with

into the wilderness that surrounded us, and from the depths

refreshing waves of freedom.

of my soul I heard it once more, “This. This. This is us.”

And when the moment arrives for you to stand upon the holy

While planning our wedding, my life partner and I chose to

ground where you and your partner will unite souls forevermore,

look inward first. We designed a day that would feel like us,

my hope for you is that you’ll feel the freedom in your bones.

and then, and only then, did we look to outside sources for

You’ll know your heart is at home. And from the depths of

ideas that would support our story. We opted to honour our

who you are, you’ll hear the whisper, “This is us.”

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THIS IS US

HOW TO BE US TAKE OUR QUESTIONNAIRE TO CREATE A WEDDING DAY FREE FROM EXPECTATIONS—ONE THAT CELEBRATES WHO YOU ARE AS A COUPLE. Photography: Jordan Voth

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HOW CAN WE CREATE A WEDDING THAT IS TRUE TO US?

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HOW WILL WE MANAGE PRESSURES + EXPECTATIONS?

WHO CAN WE LOOK TO FOR GUIDANCE?

4 HOW CAN WE SHOW EACH OTHER SUPPORT DURING THIS JOURNEY?

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ARE WE BEING MINDFUL OF OUR RELATIONSHIP?

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WHAT IS MOST IMPORTANT TO US WHEN IT COMES TO OUR WEDDING?

WHAT CAN WE DO TO MAKE THIS DAY MEMORABLE?

A picturesque wedding destination in Milawa, Victoria, with a beautifully restored historic barn and a backdrop of vines and distant mountains. brownbrothers.com.au

BUSINESS F E AT URE

THE ELOPEMENT COLLECTIVE “WE’RE PASSIONATE ABOUT OUR COUPLES TAKING BACK THEIR WEDDING DAY AND GETTING MARRIED IN A MEANINGFUL AND PERSONAL WAY.”

support you, and will go on late night ice-cream runs. We’re polar opposites—Josh wants everything to work well and I want everything to look good, so it’s truly the best of both worlds. At the end of the day, we want the best for our team

Words: Britt and Josh Withers | Photography: Lauren Campbell

and our couples so it all works together for good in the end.

The only real challenge we encounter in working together is that we’ll sometimes communicate to each other like husband and wife, not business partners, and that can mean finer details are lost in-between the words. Being self-employed isn’t always easy—there’s a lot of pressure from the outside world and don’t even get us started on the pressure that we put on ourselves. We understand deeply that we have a couple’s whole day in our hands; it’s a big, beautiful responsibility so we’re always encouraging each other to keep getting better and better. We’re forced to become better business partners while also becoming a better couple.

Working together as a duo means that we don’t wear two different hats: a ‘business hat’ and a ‘couple hat’. We’re just 100 per cent us, so it means one day we’re having a lazy morning in Byron Bay together and the next we’re on a plane to the USA after emptying the inbox in the Qantas Lounge.

Simply put, we get to hang out together forever while doing

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what we love. he Elopement Collective sprung out of our own wedding journey where we just wanted to get married in a

beautiful moment, but we didn’t think everyone we’d ever known had to be there. After talking with family, we brought the plans back from New York to a local park, but we always wished that there was someone to help us elope, so we started The Elopement Collective.

Our heart for The Elopement Collective is that other couples could elope like we wanted to. We’re passionate about our couples taking back their wedding day and getting married in a meaningful and personal way.

For some people, that’s a massive wedding where every

The key to starting a business with your partner is to know why you’re starting a business. As a couple, you already know why you’re together, so you’re well-equipped to be an active person in that relationship, making decisions for each other and communicating effectively. As a couple in business, you need to know your why, your foundation, so that you can keep encouraging each other, even when times get a little tough.

The Elopement Collective’s future is so bright, it blinds us!

Our bold and audacious goal is to change the world for the better, and we think we can do that by helping couples start their marriages in a meaningful, purposeful way.

cousin you can find is invited, and for others it’s the two of them in an epic remote location, but most people lie somewhere in-between.

Going into business with your spouse is the best thing and works really well for us. It’s amazing because you have zero doubt that your business partner has your back, will always

hello@elopementcollective.com elopementcollective.com @elopementcollective

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BUSINESS FE AT URE

photography: this page Lauren Campbell | opposite page Trent & Jessie

FREE SPIRIT “TRUST GIVES FREEDOM TO CREATE GREAT THINGS TOGETHER.” Photography: Susannah Blatchford Photography | Styling: Samantha Gerard— Wild Hearts | Florals: Sweetpea Weddings | Hair + Makeup: Stacey Banfield Gown: Claire Pettibone–Paperswan Bride | Model: Ashleigh—Portfolio Models Table Linen + Ribbons: Feathers & Stone | Stationery: Custom Crafted Calligraphy | Props: Balencia Lane | Cake: Rebecca Jane Sugar Art Styling Assistant: Georgia Greig

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ourney with us through the rolling hills of New Zealand.

This bride is nestled amidst the lush plains, relishing in

the freedom of a wedding celebrated in the wild outdoors.

She has freed her heart and mind, lavishing in a simple, feminine table setting draped with fine linens and adorned with rustic candles and rich florals.

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free spirit

SAMANTHA GERARD Stylist—Wild Hearts I am very lucky to work alongside some of the most amazing brands, creatives and publications, both for Wild Hearts and my own editorial and elopement styling business. It can be very easy to get stuck comparing yourself to other creatives, which is why we are so big on doing styled shoots. The freedom of collaboration over competition is the biggest form of networking in this creative industry. Gathering to work together and create alongside other incredible businesses helps keep you grounded and is a great way to form friendships in the industry; also, always being true to yourself, exploring your own style, constantly learning and developing through travel, experiences and wild landscapes.

~ “WITHOUT FREEDOM, CREATIVITY CANNOT FLOURISH.”—DALAI LAMA

JOSIE SMITH Florist—Sweetpea Weddings From the moment I became a florist (this was due to an epiphany after years of travelling the globe), I knew wedding florals were my calling. A wedding is one of the most special and emotion-filled days of a couple’s life, and it’s also where, as a designer, you’re going to use your most beautiful blooms, take the most care with what you do and put your heart and soul into the creation. It’s a one-off masterpiece that your bride is going to carry with her all day. Even though I’ve now done hundreds of wedding bouquets, each one remains unique, special and has some of my heart put into it. I mainly work for couples (and stylists) who tend to share the same aesthetic, which enables me to do what I love. I am driven by a relentless search for beauty and a desire to be challenged, so I love it when couples come to me requesting something I haven’t done before—or that I don’t even know how to do!

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free spirit

STACEY BANFIELD Hair + Makeup Artist

~ “FREEDOM LIES IN BEING BOLD.”—ROBERT FROST

I am hugely passionate about what I do when it comes to makeup artistry. I have an adaptable style which I think is a little different. I’m also known for creating looks that enhance the natural beauty of my clients—I think they relax a little more knowing that the bride will look herself but a little more polished on the big day. If you’re a bride-to-be, always remember it’s your day! Don’t be afraid to direct your

SUSANNAH BLATCHFORD Photographer

vendors—it’s an honour for us to be a part of your wedding. I am currently working on expanding my business to work the

I like to think I bridge the gap between documentary and

winters in beautiful destinations outside of New Zealand.

portrait style photography. I try to bring genuine moments and love stories to life. I have a fairly relaxed approach to capturing my clients on their wedding day. I’m there to observe, with a slight nudge in the direction of good light. I try to make it as fun, natural and stress-free as possible. I try not to overthink situations and take in the small moments happening around me. I also work with clients who have a similar vision and understand my approach to capturing their wedding day.

Trust gives freedom to create great things together.

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free spirit

PERFECT PAPER DELICATE STATIONERY THAT’S SIMPLE, EDGY OR SOFTLY SWEET. CREATIVE DIRECTION CARLA BURRELL PHOTOGRAPHY THE ROBERTSONS PHOTOGRAPHY therobertsonsphotography.com LINEN PLUMTART @plumtartdesigns

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1. PEBBLE PLACE CARD SCRIBETYPE (ETSY) etsy.com/au/shop/ScribeType 2. RSVP CARD WHITE INK DESIGN CO whiteinkdesignco.com.au 3. INVITATION SUITE LINES AND SQUARES linesandsquares.com 4. FLOWER CONFETTI EVERLAND FAVOURS everlandfavours.com 5. INVITATION BELLA FIGURA bellafigura.com 6. ENVELOPE WITH SEAL LINES AND SQUARES linesandsquares.com 7. INVITATION OFF ON MY BICYCLE offonmybicycle.com.au 8. INVITATION WHITE INK DESIGN CO whiteinkdesignco.com.au 9. MARSHMALLOWS BLACK PANTRY blackpantry.com.au 10. SILK RIBBON SONGBIRD SILK songbirdsilk.com.au 11. WOODEN PLACE CARD PALM & PINE PARTY CO. palmandpine.com.au

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Natural. Unique. Timeless Your wedding photos will be treasured for generations.

I make sure all the love, joy and unique qualities of your special day are captured with minimal fuss and maximum style.

georgiejames.com.au

N AT UR A L A L L UR E SOFT LOOKS FOR THE SERENE BRIDE. Words: Chiali Meng Artistry | Illustrations: Inkling Design

ROMANTIC SWEEP For this softly sweet style, wrap your hair around a 25mm

cushion, and a cream concealer to conceal dark circles and

curling iron in the opposite direction of your face. Repeat all

blemishes. Fill in the brows with a soft taupe brow pencil to keep

over until your hair is completely curled. Lightly loosen the

them looking soft. Apply a light dusty pink pearl shadow on

curls with your fingers. Gather three small strands near the

the lids, and taupe to contour the lids softly. Finish with a dark

ear area, twist them into a single strand and pin with bobby

brown gel liner to keep the line soft. Add mascara on the top

pins. Loosen the twisted strands by pulling them with your

and bottom lashes. Use a diffusing finishing ambient powder

fingers. Add hair accessories/flowers on the pinned side.

all over the face for radiance and blush on the apples of the

To achieve the makeup look, use a tinted moisturiser/BB

cheek. Add a sheer mauve pink lipstick on the lips to finish.

BOHO REVERSE BRAID To achieve these carefree locks, wrap your hair around a

flower bloom in various sizes and arrange the clusters around

32mm curling iron twice and leave the end straight. Repeat

the braid. For the makeup, use a BB cushion for glowing,

until all the hair is curled. Gather centre strands from each

dewy skin and apply a baked highlight powder on the top

side of your face and make a reverse braid. Cross the braids

of your cheekbones. Add a cream/liquid blush for a natural,

and pin it. Loosen the curls with your fingers, and use a light

flushed look. Tightline the eyes with a gel pencil liner/gel liner.

hairspray to finish. Accessorise by choosing one type of

Curl the lashes and add mascara.

37

natural allure

TO E ACH THEIR OWN

“I WANTED THE TRADITIONAL ARCHITECTURE FOR MY WEDDING, BUT I DIDN’T WANT THE INVISIBLE CEILING THAT HAD BEEN PRESSURED UPON ME.” Words: Emma Plant | Photography: We Are Origami Photography Styling + Direction: Curated by Maiden | Hair + Makeup: Margaret Albia Florals: Weni Penny | Stationery: Teresaling Calligraphy and Design Jewellery: Au Revoir Les Filles | Models: Reman Jawar, Brandy Pose, Rachel Reid, Emma Cunningham | Location: Le Petit Studio Blanc

I

twisted the ring on my finger a few times. I twisted it around so the raw stone that was encased in the ring

faced away from me. It looked like I had a plain gold band on my finger. It looked much like I was already married. Hmmm.

I wondered if other people thought that I was? I squeezed my hand into a fist. Ouch. I felt the point of the diamond press into my palm. How many times was this going to happen, this ring twisting around, causing me a prick of pain? It felt so heavy and so constricting—was that normal? It also felt like I had a story wrapped around my finger, like words were whispered about my love into a gold thread, spun into a perfectly, perfect ring symbol.

Engaged for twenty-four hours. “Click”. The petrol pump clicked, signalling my tank was full. I walked into the service station to pay for my fuel. The 20 steps to the door felt like 1,000. Was my inner ear balance off? I felt like the weight of this ring had me veering to the left. I looked down. ‘Whoops don’t look down’, I self-consciously thought. ‘People will know you are an amateur. Don’t make a fuss, be cool girl …’

My brain rambled.

39

to each their own

~

Like many young women, I’d been so terribly bruised and

“AT SOME POINTS IN MY ENGAGEMENT

with being single, and so predictably averse to wanting

I FELT AS IF I WAS RUNNING A RACE FOR MY PERSONAL BEST.”

wounded from love found, and love lost. I was wildly in love to meet any man. I loathed the chat with girlfriends about their boyfriends. I would fade away, gazing into the middle distance wondering what else I could have done with that lost time. Why couldn’t they just exist in a more independent paradigm, where they made liberated decisions? There I was. Feminist at heart, happy in my autonomous world, dreaming and doing what I wanted to. Out of that content place my husband found a way in.

“Are you paying by card?” said a man with a heavy Sri Lankan accent. “Ah yes.” I replied like a dope. “Oh, you getting married now?” he quizzically asked me, staring at my ring finger. I looked down too. I must have been making my rookie engaged-status a big rookie deal. Maybe I actually was veering left on my way in like a drugged zoo animal.

“Yes, I just got proposed, engaged … I’m now engaged. I got engaged yesterday …” I waffled. He rudely interjected, “They tell me marriage is not worth the paper it’s written on.

Might as well be toilet paper!” I was shocked. Did he intend to hover a needle threateningly over my engagement bubble?

What should I say in response? Maybe this overworked employee just needed some faith instilled back into him.

Divorce rates are up there, but at least those couples gave it a good go …

“I love toilet paper,” I replied with cognitive dissonance. “It’s a necessity. Like all paper. We need it every day.” The person in line behind me laughed. The attendant looked at me like I was a complete idiot. “No receipt thanks.” I made my way out of there posthaste. I walked out of there so swiftly that I got a little electric shock between my thighs from the friction on my stockings. With that, it bookmarked a moment in time.

He was the moon to my sun, the peace to my storm, the predictability to my spontaneity, the suits to my nudity … my opposite and my balance. He took me by surprise. For the first time in my life I knew I was with someone who would hold my hand for as long as he was able.

Our engagement wasn’t a long one. Tout de suite at only six weeks. All the swirling waters of anticipation and excitement never had time to settle while I found my footing. Being a bride is meant to be, for most, the cornerstone of our family journey. Yet, we marry this chaotic mix of collective expectations and traditions, with deeply personal beliefs and desires. Kate O’Shea, founder of The Wedding Series says, “We have noticed even the most non-traditional bride will become focused on more traditionally sentimental elements of a wedding”. Evidently being a bride means more to us when it has meant so much to everyone else.

I wanted to be part of the collective experience that brides navigate. From collective ideas and community we beget traditions and social mores. From traditions and social mores we create the architecture for our own experiences.

I wanted the traditional architecture for my wedding, but I didn’t want the invisible ceiling that had been pressured upon

I felt so overwhelmed. Even though I had positively known

me. I wanted to marry my way, or more correctly, our way.

this engagement was coming, it was much more tangible than

Fortunately my betrothed was on the same page as I. At the

I anticipated. There was a seismic shift inside of my spirit, as

time I didn’t realise how important that was. I soon found

if a river had stopped and suddenly changed course. It felt like

out the engagement of your relationship is symbolic for your

water gushing up a waterfall and travelling impossibly uphill.

entire life journey together. Let me illustrate this for you.

41

to each their own

Announcing your engagement. How did that feel? From

opinions. It may be a simple remark about a budget, or

farther down the road I can look back and tell you it’s like

noticing a manner of styles. It could be a denial of a request.

announcing a pregnancy. It takes two people to do both

All of these experiences affect us. At some points in my

and it’s a sweet, powerful moment you want to remember

engagement I felt as if I was running a race for my personal

forever. Budgeting and planning your wedding day is much

best. I knew that I was keeping busy in order to distract

akin to planning your budget and your life together. Our

myself from my fears. Don’t do that. Be brave and talk about

money is where our hearts are. In the process of planning

them. If you’re lucky like me and have a super sensitive

and spending you will find out what you deem important. Is it

partner, he will take you by the hand and ask you.

to make guests happy? Is it to impress? Our spending might look the same as another bride, but take ownership of your motives. It’s a discovery of who you are.

Being a bride is a lot like wearing a ring. It can sometimes feel like a restricting shackle, pricking us when we have it in the wrong position. Often times it feels like a desire for our

The many wedding details: the dress, the hair, the makeup,

love, symbolised in sparkling stone. A treasure or tradition

the location, the food, and the style. While the internet

that looks like so many that have gone before us, but invisibly

and magazines give us ideas, family and friends give us

inscribed with the love we chose to give.

BUSINESS F E AT URE

WITH LOVE BY MALLIK A “I DESIGN FOR A CONFIDENT WOMAN WHO DARES TO EMBRACE HERSELF IN WHATEVER SHE ENCOUNTERS IN LIFE.”

Where does your design inspiration come from?

I have always been inspired by art—all kinds, all periods. Not only from a visual perspective, but from an emotional view.

My creative design process can really begin anywhere. It can

Words: Mallika Hetrakul | Photography: @level88pix By Jacek Obrzut

be something that my friends say to me, an attitude, a girl on the street, a period in history or a film. It is something that moves me emotionally, as well as psychologically. And I think that design, for me, is extremely linked to that process of feeling; of connecting with others.

What sets a With Love By Mallika gown apart from others? I see myself as a true vintage lover and I appreciate Art Deco influences and the 1920s and 1950s periods, but yet there is modernity to my designs. Even when I create a traditional gown, I always give it a modern twist. I work with structure, with techniques and fabrics—but I do go outside the box and give it my own spin.

How would you describe your collections? With Love By Mallika is a marriage between handcrafted pieces and classic silhouettes—think romance, elegance and beauty brought together in timeless styles. With Love By Mallika brings glamour and class, and a twist of modernity. We give the bride a true experience in quality, fit, and customisation, as

W

ith Love By Mallika offers a completely tailored bridal experience, aiming to have each bride’s personality

we only utilise the finest fabrics and detailing within designs that can be changed to fulfill every wish.

shine through their gown. We chatted with couture designer

What’s next for With Love By Mallika? We’re introducing

Mallika Hetrakul about her inspiration, processes and what

our Pop-Up Boutiques in December 2017/January 2018.

each bride can expect from her With Love By Mallika gown.

They’ll be taking place in High Street, Paddington NSW.

Why did you become a designer? I wanted to create a gown that allows a bride to not only feel her best on her wedding day, but also be true to her own personal style—it’s something that drives the creativity behind my designs.

I think the right wedding dress represents who the bride is, who she aspires to be, and the dream of sharing her life with someone who adores her. I want to design wedding dresses that represent hope and happiness.

How did you make the crossover into bridal design?

When I was searching for my own wedding dress, I had great difficulty finding what I wanted—something modern yet traditional, feminine and elegant. I thought maybe other women were probably feeling exactly the same way, which inspired me to start up my own bridal business.

withlovebymallika@gmail.com withlovebymallika.com.au @withlovebymallika

45

BUSINESS FE AT URE

IF THE SHOE FITS STEP OUT IN SOME STATEMENT HEELS ON YOUR BIG DAY. ILLUSTRATIONS: JEANETTE GETROST

SALVATORE FERRAGAMO FLOWER HEEL BOW PUMP US$660 ferragamo.com

TED BAKER HAUULA $440 tedbaker.com

SPURR RINA $59.95 theiconi c.com.au

47

if the shoe fits

RMK MAGIC $189.95 rmkshoes.com

BHLDN LARAZEE $255 bhldn.com

HARRIET WILDE PEONY £200 harrietwilde.com

RACHEL SIMPSON GABRIELLA £249 rachelsimpsonshoes.co.uk

49

if the shoe fits

FREYA ROSE COURTNEY €643.54 freyarose.com

CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN FOLLIES LACE DENTELLE $1,125 christianlouboutin.com

SHE IS LIBERT Y GAZING INTO THE FUTURE WITH LIGHT IN HER EYES.

CREATIVE DIRECTION CARLA BURRELL COORDINATION + PHOTOGRAPHY ATHENA GRACE athenagrace.co HAIR + MAKEUP MG HAIR + MAKEUP mghairandmakeup.com FLORALS MIMOSA FLORAL mimosafloral.com MODEL MADDIE GREER berouged.com

DRESS SAVANNAH MILLER savannahmiller.com HEADPIECE + BRACELET A.B. ELLIE abellie.com

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she is liberty

THIS PAGE JACKET + SKIRT ONE DAY BRIDAL onedaybridal.com.au EARRINGS A.B. ELLIE abellie.com OPPOSITE PAGE DRESS MOIRA HUGHES COUTURE moirahughes.com.au VEIL SAMANTHA SLEEPER samantha-sleeper.com EARRINGS A.B. ELLIE abellie.com

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she is liberty

THIS PAGE DRESS DAUGHTERS OF SIMONE daughtersofsimone.com EARRINGS A.B. ELLIE abellie.com OPPOSITE PAGE JACKET + SKIRT ONE DAY BRIDAL onedaybridal.com.au EARRINGS A.B. ELLIE abellie.com

57

she is liberty

THIS PAGE TOP + SKIRT GODDESS BY NATURE goddessbynature.com OPPOSITE PAGE DRESS + BELT CHANTEL LAUREN chantellauren.com

59

she is liberty

THIS PAGE DRESS DAALARNA COUTURE facebook.com/DaalarnaCouture OPPOSITE PAGE DRESS ANNA CAMPBELL annacampbell.com.au EARRINGS A.B. ELLIE abellie.com

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she is liberty

THIS PAGE DRESS TATYANA MERENYUK tatyanamerenyuk.com OPPOSITE PAGE DRESS EMMY MAE emmymaebridal.com EARRINGS A.B. ELLIE abellie.com

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she is liberty

BUSINESS F E AT URE

WHITES + WOODS “NOT EVERYONE GETS TO LOVE WHAT THEY DO, SO I TRY TO REMEMBER THAT EACH DAY AND WAKE UP WITH A HEART OF GRATITUDE.” Words: Hayley + Christian Barkla

weddings and couple photography, and it brought us alive.

And one day, organically, the ‘Whites + Woods’ name was born.

Now, we live a life that is always moving and changing. Our job provides many unique opportunities. Sometimes we work little, and sometimes we work too much. One week we will be sitting at our desk editing from morning till evening, and the next we will be travelling around the world meeting and celebrating with different couples. We are thankful to see so many places, some picturesque ‘postcard’ destinations, and some humble and sentimental.

But each day, no matter what form it takes, is a gift. Not everyone is able to love what they do for work, so I try to remember that each day and wake up with a heart of gratitude. Each couple that we are able to meet with in this season of their life is a one-off experience. This is why we love to give everything we have for the time that we are in each other’s lives.

Within our own marriage and work life, we are fluid in our roles, continuously ebbing and flowing between husband and wife, co-workers, bosses, mentors and mentees. But we do all this in the love and heart we have for one another and our couples. Working and being married can have very

C

reating powerful imagery through photo or film isn’t

unique struggles (such as talking too much about work at the

just about capturing a moment … it’s about being in

dinner table). However, it is without a doubt Whites + Woods’

the moment with people. Being present and noticing the little

greatest strength.

moments that might have otherwise been forgotten. That is the

We live in a world free of hierarchy, passionate about seeing

essence of what we love to create through Whites + Woods.

one another succeed and achieve dreams. It is not anything

If someone were to tell me four years ago that I would be

like what we could have planned for our lives, but it’s much

married to my co-worker, taking photos and making films of

better. And that is what we love to see and capture for our

weddings, I would not have believed them. Especially if they

newlyweds. Couples falling into that magnificent place. They

had said that my place of work would be four steps down

want to be curious together, spontaneous and adventurous.

the hall from my bedroom door. But now I couldn’t see life

They see something in that person’s future and they can’t not

any other way.

be a part of it. They are choosing love and taking a leap into

It is funny to think of Whites + Woods as being ‘created’. It has always felt like a natural progression for us to create a

the glorious unknown. And we love knowing that our finished product is just the beginning of their story.

job and lifestyle centered around creativity—it’s our whole life.

For as long as Christian and I have been together, we have

hayley@whitesandwoodscreative.com

always played with different creative fields, from painting,

whitesandwoods.com

cooking, ceramics or even floristry. Over time, we enjoyed all

@whitesandwoods

these creative outlets in different seasons, but photography was the one that stuck. Eventually we found a heart for

65

BUSINESS FE AT URE

LISA + JAMIE A U S T R A L I A

“I LOVE YOU BECAUSE YOU TAUGHT ME HOW TO LOVE AGAIN.” PHOTOGR AP HY Jose p h W illis

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67

lisa + jamie

LISA’S SPEECH He is the sweetest, most caring and

way more than I should.

protective partner.

I love his passion to help others that are

He wakes me up every single morning with

less fortunate than himself and to make a

a smile and a coffee.

difference in the world.

I love his crazy and funny personality—there

I love how he thinks he’s a master chef—he

is never a dull day when he is around!

thinks his food tastes so much better than

I love when he sings and dances in the

mine (because it’s smothered in salt).

morning to make sure our day is starting on

I love that he lets me fill both mine and his

a good note.

suitcase with my clothes when we travel.

I love that Jamie is obsessed with pizza and

I know that life will be one big, incredible

burgers, because it means I get to eat them

adventure with him.

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lisa + jamie

JAMIE’S SPEECH I love that every single day when I wake up I see your cute little face snoozing away.

I love you because you taught me how to love again.

I love you for your passion to make things perfect.

I love you because you always find the best in people.

I love your love for adventure.

I love you because you always put others before yourself.

Most of all I love you because you enrich my life every day and bring so much happiness to me—I couldn’t live without you.

71

lisa + jamie

CEREMONY + RECEPTION Yarrakoora, Byron Bay PLANNING + STYLING Lucy Ewing GOWN Kate W illa Bridal SHOES The Bali Tailor HAIR Luciana Rose MAKEUP Phoebe Fever JEWELLERY YCL Jewels GROOM’S SUIT Styled by Dayne Thompson: Biasa (jacket + shirt), ROWIE The Label (pants) BRIDESMAIDS’ DRESSES Zimmermann, ROWIE The Label, Vintage GROOMSEN’S SUITS H&M (jackets), Biasa (shirts), Mr Simple (pants) RINGS Johnny Ramli CINEMATOGRAPHY Aaron—The Common Smith FLORALS The Nesst STATIONERY Kimberly Smith Design CAKE Cat McKinnon ENTERTAINMENT Phil Jamieson—Grinspoon (processional), Jessie Pumphrey (reception), DJ Mega Wuoti (first dance) HIRE + SETUP Hampton Event Hire CELEBRANT Skai Ceremonies LIGHTING What She Said Co (neon signs)

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73

lisa + jamie

LISA + TOM A U S T R A L I A

“YOU HAVE ENCOURAGED ME TO DO THINGS BEYOND MY WILDEST DREAMS.” PHOTOGR AP HY Elk & W illow

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75

lauren + steven

DEAR TOM In the past seven years you have

But what I am most certain of is that I want

encouraged me to do things beyond my

to always make you laugh when you’re

wildest dreams, taught me to be a better

having a bad day, encourage and love you.

version of myself and continue to give me

I want to be by your side as you’re fulfilling

the confidence to conquer dreams that I

you’re dreams, as you are with me. I want

never thought would become a reality. As

to be there every step of every single day no

we now step into the next chapter of our

matter what life throws at us and I couldn’t

lives as husband and wife, we will be forced

imagine doing this with anyone else. I’m

to make some tough and big decisions

proud to go through the rest of our lives

along our journey and I’m sure that we will

calling you my husband and my best friend

have many bumps along the way.

who has and will always be there.

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lauren + steven

DEAR LISA The night that I met you, I had a feeling

we will have to make tough decisions, but

you would be a big part of my life. My first

I’m glad we will do so by each other’s side.

impression was that you were a sweet,

Already you’ve taken on the challenge of

cheeky, feisty but down-to-earth girl—and

starting and running your own business and

that hasn’t changed a bit! I remember the

I’m so proud of what you have achieved,

first time you cooked dinner for me, I thought,

and will always be by your side through the

I could get used to this! But don’t get me

good times as well as the not so good. You

wrong, I will never take you for granted. No

make me so happy, I love you to bits and

doubt there will be bumps in the road as

am so proud to call you my wife.

79

L isa + T om

CEREMONY + RECEPTION + SETUP Luminare, South Melbour ne VIC GOWN Paolo Sebastian SHOES Sophia Webster HAIR Rachel Louise Dinami, Amy-Louise Camilleri MAKEUP Maree Brigante GROOM’S + GROOMSMEN’S SUITS M.J. Bale BRIDESMAIDS’ DRESSES Needle & Thread RINGS Burrows Jewellers FLORALS Ambrosia Floral Designs STATIONERY Mark Lappin (invitations, welcome + seating chart), Nikki Design Co. (cards + wishes sign), White Acacia Design Co. (place cards) ENTERTAINMENT Higher Ground HIRE + SETUP Harry the Hirer (dance floor + festoon lighting), Wedding Hire Melbour ne (carpet + chairs), The Small Things Co. (candles, candlesticks + lanter ns), Weddings of Distinction (arbour) TRANSPORT My Chauffeur Melbour ne CELEBRANT Kate Morgan BONBONNIERES Robinvale Estate Dressings BALLOONS Moonshot Balloons

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L isa + T om

ATHENA + CAMRON U S A

“WITH EACH SUNRISE, YOU ARE THE TENDER, SWEET VOICE THAT WHISPERS LIBERATING TRUTHS OVER ME THAT SETTLE IN MY HEART.” PHOTOGR AP HY B e nj Ha isc h

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83

athena + camron

DEAR ATHENA My beloved, there are some things that need

all that you will become. What I desire is the

a lifetime. The moment I met you I knew our

you I have yet to know—the one that will

love would be one of those things. Back when

shock me with undeserved love, tenderness,

we had just met I had no concept of the

and passion. I want memories with you

furious passion for life you would ignite in my

that outnumber memories without you. I

bones, and now we’re married and I feel it

want to learn and re-learn every inch of

every day. Two years, two countries and four

your growing heart and the way you see the

weddings has led us to a life I’ve only dreamed

world. I want to memorise and re-memorise

of. With each sunrise, you are the tender,

your face as hairs grey and laugh lines grow

sweet voice that whispers liberating truths

deep. But it’s not just what I want anymore.

over me that settle in my heart. Yet this you

It’s what I have … you, every moment of

that I have married is just a small glimpse of

every day for the rest of our lives.

85

athena + camron

DEAR CAMRON From the first day I saw you, I knew you were going to turn my world upside down. My handsome, bearded barista from Portland, who drew me 8,000 miles across the earth with your beautiful heart, poetic words and outright perfect face. I am so thankful that now there are finally no more goodbyes, but long distance taught me to fight for you, listen to you, and hold your heart when I couldn’t hold you in my arms. When you asked me to marry you, waist deep in snow, you gave me a ring that had a gorgeous rutilated quartz stone tucked in a rose gold triangle. To others it pointed upwards, but when I look down at it myself it pointed downwards. It was your sweet and constant reminder to me that while the world may look at us and see a ‘mountain top’, you will choose me, fight for me, and fiercely love me in the valleys of life too. Six months later, when I said, ‘I do,’ underneath mountains gently hued by forest fire haze, I was saying, ‘I choose you, all of you, every inch of you for the rest of my days. I choose you in the valleys and on the mountain tops, in times of both difficulty and joy.’ Thank you for valuing our marriage more than our wedding, and for constantly reminding me that our love story is a shadow of something greater.

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athena + camron

CEREMONY Rattlesnake Lake, Washington BRIDE’S OUTFIT Karen W illis Holmes (top + skirt), Ultimo (bodice), Lack of Color (hat) SHOES W ittner GROOM’S OUTFIT ASOS (shirt + jacket), Brixton (hat) SHOES T imberland RINGS Natalie Marie Jewellery (bride), Hodina (groom)

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89

athena + camron

CASEY + ALEX U S A

“THERE’S SOMETHING PRETTY MAGICAL ABOUT FINDING SOMEONE WHO KNOWS YOU EVEN BETTER THAN YOU KNOW YOURSELF.” PHOTOGR AP HY Jord a n Voth

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91

CASEY + ALEX

THE PROPOSAL We were holding a fundraiser in memory of Alex’s father for The Pasadena Humane Society & SPCA. At one point in the night, he got on top of the bar in front of all our friends and family and made a toast to his dad. During his speech he mentioned that the last conversation he had with his father was about spending the rest of his life with someone. That’s when everyone started chanting my name and one of my friends swooped me up and put me up on the bar with him. He took out the box and got on one knee—it was instant waterworks for me.

My face hurt the next morning from smiling so hard all night.

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CASEY + ALEX

AS A COUPLE …

Alex is a born entertainer and people person—and it might sound cheesy, but we both love making others smile. We are incredibly fortunate to find ourselves on career paths that make use of our interests and talents—and we are just as goofy behind the scenes as we are in public! He is always trying to make me laugh and I’m always trying to get him to eat healthy foods. Alex is a little more cynical in nature, whereas I’m the eternal optimist, but I think we have a healthy balance of personalities and we are constantly learning from one another.

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CASEY + ALEX

CEREMONY + RECEPTION The Goode Residence PLANNING + HIRE Chicago Vintage Weddings STYLING + HAIR + MAKEUP Officially Quigley (bride) GOWN Rue De Seine—a&bé Bridal Shop SHOES BED | STU JEWELLERY Ranjana Khan GROOM’S SUIT Alexa Younger BRIDESMAIDS’ DRESSES Fame and Partners RINGS Mark Broumand FLORALS Verdant Company STATIONERY People I’ve Loved CAKE Vanille Patisserie CATERING Giordano’s Pizza, SizzleBox DRINKS Absolut Elyx, Mount Gay Rum ENTERTAINMENT Milwaukee Airwaves, Jazi Photo (photo booth) DECOR Urban Outfitters, KETmercantile—Etsy

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CASEY + ALEX

SHAREE + NIK A U S T R A L I A

“WE WERE INSPIRED TO CREATE A DAY THAT WAS INTIMATE AND EXPERIENTIAL.”

PHOTOGR AP HY Ale x Ca rlyle

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SHAREE + NIK

THE LOOKS Sharee: I love to create with my hands

Nik: My husband is a record producer and

and I express this through design, so

film composer. He carries a strong sense

from the start I knew I wanted to design

of ‘Rock and Roll’ and is synonymous

my own unique wedding dress. When I

with wearing black—it comes from his

am designing, I’m inspired by sculpture,

fascination with fine details and subtlety

silhouette and the notion that no two

rather than buoyant expression. We had to

women are alike, all unique and all created

explore this within his personal styling. The

with an individual purpose. I’m a Gypsy

60s in London, mod culture and designers

at heart, fascinated by their history and

like Yves Saint Laurent all represented this

the picture of freedom they represent. So

healthy rebellion in his personal expression.

I wanted to create my own version of a

Truth be told, we didn’t spend that much

Parisian Gypsy dress. As my pen hit the

money on all the suits. But the only choice

paper, layered hemlines, textured fabric and

in footwear was Saint Laurent’s Wyatt boot

floaty silhouettes were all I could visualise.

in black leather—a timeless, lifelong piece.

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THE STYLE We were inspired to create a day that was intimate and experiential. We wanted it to feel like you had lost your way and ended up in some great backstreet in Paris. Our guests were given an address but had no clue to what they were in for.

When we found our ceremony location, it was obvious to keep the styling simple and unrefined.

We liked the imperfections of the overgrown vines and old garage doors. We allowed our guests to fill in the uncomplicated backdrop and kept the remaining space simple with only a Persian rug and a few bench seats for family. The procedure and flow of the day was pivotal in creating the experience.

Our reception venue, Charlie Parker’s, was only a 900m walk away. When the sun was setting, our guests had a chance to get lost amongst the historic architecture and old streets of Paddington.

The styling of Charlie Parker’s is other worldly—a cultured feast lit by candlelight and trimmed with artisan cocktails. From the moment you walk in, you can see that this place is something unique. We did not do a thing to add or subtract from what was already there! It was the perfect end to a day that was ‘just right’.

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CEREMONY Dwyer Lane, Woollahra RECEPTION + CAKE Charlie Parker’s PLANNING Chelsea Crawford STYLING Poco Uno GOWN Sew Bespoke Studio (couturier), Sharee Gray (designer) SHOES H&M HAIR + MAKEUP Chloe Grace Hair & Makeup GROOM’S SUIT Vintage SHOES Yves Saint Laurent BRIDESMAIDS’ DRESSES Sharee Gray GROOMSMEN’S SUITS Topman RINGS Natalie Marie Jewellery, Lachlan Walsh, Carl Noonan FLORALS Flora By Rachel Allan STATIONERY Morgan Printing CELEBRANT Ryan Smith

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SHAREE + NIK

K AY L A + BRYCE U S A

“IN YOUR COMPANY, I FIND LOVE THAT I HAVE NEVER FELT IN MY LIFE.”

PHOTOGR AP HY I nd ia Ea rl

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magali + gabe

DEAR KAYLA First off, I just want you to know how much

know we have each other’s backs no matter

I love you and how thankful I am that I will

what. You have shown me the true meaning

with be with you for the eternities. As the

of love not just with your words, but with your

days and years go by, I can only hope we

actions and care. When we aren’t together

can laugh and be as one each and every

with my crazy schedule I often think about

day. They say love and relationships can’t

you. I imagine your hair and the way it falls

be perfect, but you are as perfect as they

on your shoulders. I see your beautiful fresh

come and our relationship is so perfectly

face with your angel kisses (freckles). I see

imperfect. We fight, we cry, but damn do we

the way you smile and how you look before

love. I hope that we can communicate and

you laugh. You bring so much joy and life

know one another more and more. I hope

into me and I hope I can return that to you

we can learn from each other and always

each day we are on this earth.

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magali + gabe

DEAR BRYCE I love you more than words can ever describe, and I cannot explain the immense excitement and gratitude I have to be your wife for the eternities. I hope that we will continue to put each other first and that we will continue to grow our relationship through communication and love. I hope that we can be the best example of a loving, successful marriage for our future children, grandchildren and the people around us. You make me the happiest I have ever been and I hope you know that I couldn’t make it through this life without your example, advice and willingness to help me fulfil my dreams. You have always been my biggest support system and the first to tell me that you believe in me. You make me feel special every day, not just on holidays or my birthday. You go out of your way to make my family a priority, which means the whole world to me. We have literally been through hell and back, yet you never give up on me. I hope that we will continue to fight just as hard as we laugh together. That when we run into a bump in the road we won’t hold back on our feelings and that we will fight to work through them together. You have given me a relationship that most girls could only dream up in their minds and you do it so effortlessly. You are truly a gift from heaven made special just for me.

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CEREMONY San Diego California Temple RECEPTION Custom barn on the Del Mar Polo Fields PLANNING + STYLING When Pigs Fly Events GOWN Penelope’s Gowns SHOES Jimmy Choo HAIR Lauren Procuniar (bride), Garidey Bray + Shawn Knudsen (bridesmaids) MAKEUP Jen Rose (bride), Rachel Harper—Eat Sleep Beauty (bridesmaids) JEWELLERY Jason of Beverly Hills GROOM’S + GROOMSEN’S SUITS Stitched BRIDESMAIDS’ DRESSES Adrianna Papell RINGS Jeff White Custom Jewelry CINEMATOGRAPHY David Perry Films FLORALS Layers of Lovely STATIONERY She Paperie CAKE VG Donut & Bakery CATERING Miho Catering Co. DRINKS Snake Oil Cocktail Co. HIRE + SETUP Mackenzie Anne Productions CELEBRANT Jim Knight

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JESS + MIKE A U S T R A L I A

“I LOVE YOU WITH ALL THAT I AM. AND I WILL CHOOSE YOU EVERY DAY, FROM NOW UNTIL FOREVER.” PHOTOGR AP HY Ame lia Fulla rton

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jess + M ike

JESS’ VOWS Michael, I promise to love you without

encouraged to pursue the hopes, dreams

reservation. To be your constant friend

and desires that God has placed in your

and faithful partner. The miracle in our

heart. When the load feels heavy, I will be

togetherness is because of the One who

beside you, doing my absolute best to carry

loves us most. I promise to make Him

it with you and make things feel that bit

the foundation of our relationship as we

lighter. As we journey into this new chapter

navigate the seasons of life. As time

of our story, I will respect you as my life

goes on, I will choose to stay with you,

partner, trust you and recognise that we are

no matter the circumstances thrown

always stronger together. I love you with all

our way. I will endeavour to make it

that I am. And I will choose you every day,

my endless pursuit to ensure you are

from now until forever.

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jess + M ike

MIKE’S VOWS Jess, today I want you to know how much

the good times and your shoulder to cry

you mean to me. You are my best friend,

on through the hard ones. I promise to be

my lover and the one I want to be with

faithful always, to care for and respect you,

forever. Today, I promise to be your greatest

working hard to have the patience that love

encourager, the supporter of your dreams,

demands. I want to grow together in our

and a selfless husband who always aims to

relationship with God and discover what He

put you first. I want to be your companion

has for us, together. You are the one I love,

on every adventure, your mate through all

now and always.

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CEREMONY + RECEPTION Palm House, Royal Botanic Garden Sydney STYLING Holly McCauley GOWN Jenet Zaitar SHOES Gucci HAIR Hope Shoemaker MAKEUP Stephanie Askew GROOM’S + GROOMSMEN’S SUITS Tailor & Co BRIDESMAIDS’ DRESSES Zimmermann RINGS Satomi Kawakita Jewelry FLORALS MyFlowerMan CAKE The Unicor n CATERING Mary’s Newtown HIRE + SETUP Your Event Solution

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DROPPING THE BALL “IF WE TRULY LOVE, SHOULD WE NOT RELEASE AS WELL?” MICHAEL SHARES WHAT IT’S LIKE TO TO BE A PART OF #TEAMCAUCHI.

Let’s be real for a moment—our culture has shifted significantly from marriage being referred to as ‘the old ball and chain’ to marriage being a team, a partnership. I know in my marriage #teamcauchi is a high-trending hashtag, and it’s

Words: Michael Cauchi | Photography: I Got You Babe

always said with such pride. It gives both my wife and I such freedom and incredible trust in one another to know that we’ve got each other’s back; that my weaknesses are her strengths and vice versa.

But the real winning feeling here is she doesn’t make me pay for it by discouraging me in that weakness. Instead, her releasing me to play to my strengths helps better serve her in our marriage!

We’ve got an 11-month-old girl. She’s an absolute delight— allergic to sleep, but still a delight. Becoming a dad for the first time (whoa, that’s intense) is incredibly rewarding and adventurous, but never have I felt such a responsibility like that before.

I’m constantly hearing compliments about how involved and hands-on I am with my family. At first, I was taken aback— turns out my parenting style and the way I approached the relationship with my wife by helping and being involved challenges the very fabric of society. It goes against the old

I

t’s been a long day. I’ve just come home from work and

ways and it’s still foreign to some people.

headed straight for the fridge, but there’s something in

Well, my friends, I’m here to say the culture has shifted and

the way; something that causes my right eye to twitch, my

we need to move with it. I consider it a privilege for me as a

breath to get shorter and my jaw to clench … that quarterly

husband and a father to honour those vows and commit my

water bill. I don’t know about you, but numbers were never

entire life’s purpose to supporting my wife and child.

my strong suit. Thank God for my wife!

It truly makes my heart smile when I see other couples for

You wouldn’t believe the amount of conversations I’ve

one another, championing each other in their dreams and

had where there has been utter confusion toward me, just

passions, being ‘on team’. If we truly love, should we not

because I don’t look after the finances.

release as well? Maybe it’s time we begin using our own

“It’s the husband’s job to watch the money mate—you’ve got

family hashtag a bit more.

to lead your household. Who knows how many shoes or fake tans are going out the door with your hard-earned money!”.

After being bombarded with these ridiculous comments, my response is always the same. After a long pause (hopefully

~

waiting to see if this person has actually registered what

“HER RELEASING ME TO PLAY TO MY

they’ve said to me—usually not), “Mate, trust me—if I looked

STRENGTHS HELPS BETTER SERVE HER

after the finances, or did the ‘man job’ as you call it, we

IN OUR MARRIAGE!”

wouldn’t be here right now. We’d be having this conversation over the phone through bulletproof glass in Silverwater.”

L O V E ’S IN V I TAT ION

“THE FREEDOM TO BE AND TO BECOME AND TO SHARE YOURSELF WITH ANOTHER HUMAN BEING IS THE TRUEST DEFINITION OF LOVE I KNOW.” Words: Liz Milani | Photography: Bianca Virtue

I

wiped down the bench, put a few breakfast items away, made our bed, and left for work. Like I did most days.

Who knew that such habits could cause such problems in my then young marriage? When I arrived home that evening, I found the bed re-made and the kitchen items ‘re-put’ back to their ‘proper place’. So I did what every mature married woman does: put all said things back in their ‘proper’ proper place and told (yelled at) my husband to please stick with my proper places for all the things.

When two lives come together, no matter how beautiful the ceremony or wonderful the honeymoon, some things can’t help but crash into each other as they become one. Things like how to make the bed, what sport to watch, which family you spend Christmas with, values, politics, religion, ethics and ideals. We all have a proper place for these in our lives, but we may not agree on which things belong and how they fit together. Such is the privilege of individuality. And frustration of it.

Unity rarely lives up to its assumed potential. Our dreams of union are filled with romance and peace and agreement, universal answers to complex questions accompanied with knowing smiles: this is why we’re together! We assume

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love ' s invitation

~ “YOU ARE ONE, BUT YOU ARE ALSO TWO. AND THERE’S BEAUTY IN THE TENSION OF THAT.”

that relationship is built on a commonality that consists of believing and thinking and living. Those first years together bring, for many couples, the realisation that either unity is a crock or it’s something we’ve gravely misunderstood.

But, there is a peculiar and wild freedom found in love.

It’s not an isolated joy autonomous from attachment and connection that enables you to do whatever you want, whenever you want. That’s not freedom. That’s immature.

Love is the gateway to freedom. Which sounds ironic, because love often leads us to responsibility, routine and even obligation (what a terrible word). We don’t usually think of these when we dream of love and freedom, but nonetheless, it’s where they meet and make beauty together.

Freedom isn’t shouting into the wind as it whimsically blows the hair off your face. Freedom is found in the middle, muck and mess of love. It’s found in those moments of responsibility and routine and even obligation. It’s found in the crash of two lives whom in love, for love and by love freely choose to do life side-by-side.

Not the same life, mind you. Not conformed to each other,

know. But it takes work. It takes seeing, not demanding.

but committed to one another. Not the kind of commitment

Understanding, not knowing. And releasing, not stifling.

that makes one make the bed the same as the other, or put

Which is hard. Why? Because we’re so invested in our own

the salt back on the second shelf not the third, or vote a

beliefs and ideas and habits—so devoted to how we make

certain way, or believe a certain thing, or respond with certain

the bed—that it’s difficult to understand why someone we

actions. No.

love would do it differently. When we’re sharing a home and

Something happens when you are so thoroughly loved by

possessions and money and remote controls and a bed and

someone who doesn’t have to love you. Someone who

a bathroom; when we live in such intimacy and vulnerability,

has used their freedom to choose you as their person,

it’s tempting to think that things would be more peaceful,

and continues to do so moment-by-moment, day-by-day,

calmer and efficient if we also shared all the same principles

year-by-year.

and behaviours.

When you are fully seen, and fully known, and fully loved, the

While it would make picking a doona cover easier, conformity

freedom to be fully yourself transcends bond and restriction.

breeds a beige coloured, soulless life; a marriage built with

The freedom to be and to become and to share yourself

doormats. A blend of colours is always risky and messy at

with another human being is the truest definition of love I

first, but over time and with patience, it makes beautiful art.

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So how do you do it? How do you blend two lives together without crashing into resentment? I’m asking you. How do you do it? What works for you and your partner? There is no one way to build a life together; there is only the work and the love that exists in such a profoundly auspicious and hopeful endeavour.

And here’s the thing, you are free. Free to surrender your expectations and habits and demands. Free to see the one you love in all their individual glory. Free to celebrate their quirks and ideals and politics, even if they’re different to yours. You’re free to remake the bed, and you’re free to let it be. You are free to be you and free to let the one you love be them. This is where love flourishes: when you can, as Kahlil Gibran wrote, “Let there be spaces in your togetherness, and let the winds of the heavens dance between you.” Rejoice in your separateness and take comfort in your togetherness.

You are one, but you are also two. And there’s beauty in the tension of that. Because the journey towards unity is one of letting go and joining in, making the bed together, bringing all our differences and colour along for the ride.

~ “YOU ARE FREE TO BE YOU AND FREE TO LET THE ONE YOU LOVE BE THEM.”

FREE TO BE CHALLENGE CULTURE + EMBRACE NEW ASPECTS OF YOUR RELATIONSHIP. Photography: Tish Carlson—Matt & Tish Photography

W

elcome to the next instalment of white’s social experiments, where we’ve thrown away the notion

of ‘being tied down’ in marriage, and discovered the true freedom that comes with committing your life to a dedicated partner; free to share your deepest longings, your most secret insecurities, your truest self. See how our couples fared this issue with finding freedom in the day-to-day.

TAKE UP THE CHALLENGE • O rganise a double-date: Grab your closest married friends and head out somewhere fun (without the kids, if you have them). Try a new restaurant you’ve been meaning to go to.

• Gather some family or friends and host a dinner.

Can be as low-key as a BBQ at the park. ave a night off: Plan one night for you and • H your partner to go out separately. Time for a girls’/guys’ night out! Meet up with some of your dearest and best and do something fun.

• E njoy a hobby: This one, we’ll give you a bit of freedom with. You can either pursue a hobby on your own, or as a couple—but it should be something that you love doing.

• Spend some time chatting about your dreams and goals as a couple and as individuals.

BREE + CHAD Although we believe we are one in marriage, we are

ourselves. I would hate to be thought of by Chad as a ‘ball

still each a whole person, not a half. We have our own

and chain’. Neither of us is perfect, and I have had my fair

thoughts and ambitions and processes of growing. We are

share of insecurities over the years which has resulted in

still individuals and we need the freedom to be ourselves.

‘ball and chain-ish’ behaviour, but I never want to dictate

Freedom and confidence in spending time apart allows

who Chad is or stifle his dreams or override his decisions.

us the desire and joy in being together. Freedom in our

Because we trust each other, we have the freedom to be the

marriage looks like a common standard or understanding

same person when we’re together and when we’re apart.

for what marriage is in Jesus. It looks like trust and mutual

We have the ability to be fully ourselves together. We can be

respect for one another, open and frequent communication,

our silliest, grossest, least put-together selves in each other’s

consideration for one another, putting the other before

presence, and still feel loved.

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KATIE + CHRIS For us, freedom in marriage looks like trust. We trust that

way to grow distant from one another. I find that when we are

we are wanting the best for one another, we trust that we

intentional about spending time together, serving one another

are doing our best each day to love our family well, and we

in love, then we are choosing to grow in love. Also, we are

trust that our love is unconditional. Absence does make us

surrounded by friends and family that love us unconditionally,

miss the other person, but I think that making the effort to

encourage us spiritually, challenge us to grow as parents and

spend quality time with your spouse is most important. It’s

spouses, and even help us grow creatively. They’re an important

easy to get caught up in the routine of a busy life, making

support system and this week was a good reminder to make

time for everyone but your spouse, and this can be an easy

sure we are taking the time to invest back into them.

SARAH + JEFFERY When we met, we were two separate and distinct individuals,

want to be certain places, but if it’s important in our spouse’s

and we fell in love as these two people. When we give each

life, it becomes a priority in our own life. This isn’t out of the

other space, it allows us to also grow as individuals and

obligation of marriage, but wanting the best for each other.

allows for freedom to explore different areas in life. We think it

This week we were able to hang out with each other, with

is very important to be able to grow together as a couple and

others, and just out on our own. I think doing things like that

grow individually as two young adults. We are still working

can be freeing. Having this balance of giving space, hanging

on encouraging one another in different aspects of our lives.

out and doing different things helps us feel freer to keep

There might be events or times when we personally wouldn’t

growing in our marriage and as individuals.

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KYLA + JAMES James: From day one Kyla has always encouraged me to

owe it to her to be and do my best. And the amazing thing is

do the things that I love. I’ve learned to believe her when she

that once I’ve done those things, I can appreciate myself more,

says to go do things that I’m passionate about. She can tell

and I get to come back to her filled up and show her love all

when there’s something I need to do, and if I ignore that and

the better. We both know life is hard, and I think we both have

stay with her, she feels guilty for keeping me. I can’t tell you

level heads about the risks involved with promising your life to

how hard this has been to learn. This is where true freedom

someone, but I’ve never met somebody who made me believe

comes in. She wants me to literally live my best life! Even if

in myself and in us as a couple like Kyla and I don’t know how I

it means I have to go do something without her for a while, I

could be any happier to get to spend my life with someone.

O L D FA S H I O N E D R O M A N C E MODERN LOVE STORY

CATERING | EVENTS | VENUES

hostcosydney.com | +61 2 9563 6245 |

STILL THE ONE I LOVE

DONA + SEU: A DIAMOND ANNIVERSARY Photography + Cinematography: São Paulo Fotografia | Location: Chácara Terra Prometida | Decorations: Sérgio Peralta | Florals: Gra Barriviera Hair + Makeup: Cor e Alma | Dress: RCampos Atelier | Groom’s Outfit: Villa Roma | Celebrant: Fernanda Caetano–Pais Em Paz

F

or Dona Rosa and Seu Russo, 2017 marks 60 years together as a married couple. The pair wed in a

quaint ceremony in Brazil, attended only by family. But with no photos of their wedding day, Dona and Seu decided to recreate those precious memories from six decades ago in honour of their Diamond Anniversary. Dona tells of their incredible journey as a couple below.

How did you meet? We were around 10 or 12 years old when he moved to the farm and we met each other. After a few years, when we were around 15 or 16, we went on a trip with some friends and he all of a sudden kissed me—I got really mad. When he turned 18, he joined the army and we separated for a while.

How did your partner propose? It was not easy for us because my father would not accept our relationship. Once, we were together at a party, and at around 4pm my father showed up and got really angry because I was with him. That is when he said that if we wanted to stay together, we had to get married. Therefore, with no proposal, we were engaged, and three months later we got married.

Do you remember your wedding day? It was a simple but very beautiful party with our families. That was on July 30 1957, with no pictures—only memories in our minds. My sister-inlaw had made my dress for me, and Seu was wearing a very beautiful black suit and white shirt … my endless love.

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How did you know your partner was the one? When I was 15 or 16 years old, I could recognise a very special, well-dressed, the man I always wanted to spend my whole life with.

~

How have you kept your relationship strong all these

“HE WAS THE MAN I ALWAYS WANTED TO

years? Based in love, respect and faith in God, with the only

SPEND MY WHOLE LIFE WITH.”

hardworking, serious, honest and polite young man. He was

purpose of staying together until death do us part, overcoming all the difficulties. Separation never once crossed our minds.

How do you both deal with conflict? We have a great faith in God, and support one another with respect and kindness.

What do you find attractive about your partner?

Everything is attractive about him; I see the handsome man of when we were young. He has always provided for our family with kindness.

Have there been any challenges in your relationship?

Yes, many challenges, just like any other couple. But we

How have you helped each other’s goals? We have always supported each other, facing the same goal: to raise our children with respect.

What are the three most important ingredients of a successful marriage? Love, forgiveness and hope.

What advice do you have for young couples? Mutual love and respect. You should always support each other.

managed them one by one, always keeping in mind our

What is marriage to you? It is living to make your partner

children, and seeking God for strength and grace. We had

happy, and always thinking about them. It is seeking blessing,

nine children, so we wanted to be good role models for them.

having the word of God as guidance in every moment.

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ESPLEY’S OLD SAWMILL

LOVER OF MINE

Espley’s Old Sawmill is nestled at the foot of the Watagan Mountains in the prestigious rural valley of Martinsville.

It’s a space with rich history and rustic country charm.

We are a husband and wife duo and our passion is to craft beautiful, wholehearted images so you can remember and cherish your moments for as long as you both shall love.

matt@espleys.com.au | espleys.com.au | @espleysvenue

hello@loverofmine.com.au | loverofmine.com.au

MARRIED BY JOSH

SCARLET & SAGE

“You are loved. That’s why we’re here in this magazine, right?

Because you, you crazy person—you were brave enough to let someone into your life. That’s worth celebrating! Let my words set the stage, while your words create the marriage.”

“Hello brides- and grooms-to-be! We’re Laura and Sunny, the photography and videography duo behind Scarlet & Sage. We provide unique and candid films and photos for couples using an authentic, fun and non-invasive approach.”

hello@marriedbyjosh.com | marriedbyjosh.com | @marriedbyjosh

love@scarletandsage.com | scarletandsage.com | @scarletandsage

Image by Teneil Kable

DE LA TERRE

FOX & KIN

De La Terre is a contemporary botanical and floral design studio in the Margaret River region of Western Australia.

Their creations are highly detailed, bountiful in greenery and reminiscent of forest beauty. Come wander …

When you look at your wedding photos 20 years from now, they should take you right back to that moment. You are unique and your wedding photos should be too. Fox & Kin is all about creating art that represents you.

hello@delaterre.com.au | delaterre.com.au | @delaterre

hello@foxandkin.com | foxandkin.com | @foxandkin

PETAL & FERN

LOVE AND STUFF PHOTOGRAPHY

Flowers are pretty much the best things ever and we love creating natural, classic and playful arrangements to add extra beauty to a wedding day. We are Sydney based, but will happily travel!

“Love and Stuff Photography is for the adventurous hearts.

We celebrate your love and joy, minus the fake or cheesy poses—just a relaxed, fun experience to document all your authentic moments.”

kat@petalandfern.com | petalandfern.com | @petalandfern

hello@loveandstuff.co | loveandstuff.co | @loveandstuffphotography

MEL BOULDEN

UNDER THE MOON ELOPEMENTS

Mel is passionate about creating wedding images that are emotive and candid in nature. She loves it when couples turn out to be the friends she never knew she was missing. Get in touch to see about having her share your day.

The ultimate glamping wedding experience. The team creates all inclusive wedding packages tailored to your needs, and set the bell tent camp in their beautiful and wild locations (or yours).

melboulden@yahoo.com.au | melbouldenphotography.com.au @mel_boulden

info@underthemoonelopements.com.au underthemoonelopements.com.au

MILK BOOKS

FLŌS BOTANICAL STUDIO

Preserve special moments in an exquisite, contemporary handcrafted photo book or album. Premium, luxurious materials and archival quality will ensure they last a lifetime.

Save 20% off your first order with code WHITEMAG20.

With a background in fine art practice, Vivien focuses on seasonal artisan blooms that celebrate the locally grown and make the most of our seasons; the fragrant, the delicate and unexpected. Her work is bespoke and unique for each client.

contact@milkbooks.com | milkbooks.com | @milkbooks

hello@flosbotanical.studio | flosbotanical.studio | @flos.botanical.studio

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THE WEDDING NEST

PUSHING PANSIES

The Wedding Nest is a boutique wedding gift registry specialising in unique gifts that are design- and stylefocused—not available on other registries. Custom Wishing Well and Honeymoon funds are available.

Artistically structured floral arrangements and the passion for providing those with something a little different is what the duo behind Pushing Pansies aims for. Located in Newcastle, they specialise in wedding florals and daily bouquets.

info@theweddingnest.com.au | theweddingnest.com.au @theweddingnest

hello@pushingpansies.com | pushingpansies.com | @pushingpansies

LITE BOX FILMS

BRIDAL TROUSSEAU

A film can capture the true essence of a memory. It offers movement, dialogue, expression and emotional resonance that can last a lifetime. With Jean-Paul’s unorthodox touch, every film is shaped and formed into a beautiful work of art.

Trousseau celebrates brides with their range of lingerie, chic couture bridal garters and accessories. They use only the finest of fabrics with carefully sourced embellishments, and aim to make their pieces a memorable part of your journey to the altar.

info@liteboxfilms.com | liteboxfilms.com | @liteboxfilms

info@bridaltrousseau.com.au | trousseau.com.au | @bridaltrousseau

SUSANNA APRIL

HONEY LANE

Susanna April’s art reflects her own spiritual journey and the joy she finds in creating with freedom.

She creates each original piece to call forth true beauty and breathe life into every home.

At Honey Lane, we’re in the business of making your day something inexplicably special. Whether we guide you on all or part of your wedding path, our work behind the scenes and on the day ensures you will always remember this time as one of sheer enjoyment and smooth sailing.

susannaapril.com | hello@susannaapril.com | @susannaapril

hello@honeylane.com.au | honeylane.com.au | @honeylaneevents

WOOD & BEAU

HUNTER DESIGN SCHOOL

Wood & Beau is a Gold Coast-based company making wooden and leather bow ties as a unique touch for any wedding or the perfect groomsmen gift. They also offer socks, suspenders, cufflinks and grooming products.

This gleaming white venue not only houses a school for creative minds across various fields of design.

It lends itself as a boutique event space, serving as the perfect blank canvas for your stylistic vision.

info@woodandbeau.com.au | woodandbeau.com.au

hello@hunterdesignschool.nsw.edu.au hunterdesignschool.nsw.edu.au

HEAVENLY BLOOMS

RIVERSTONE ESTATE

“I feel very blessed to have found my life’s passion through flowers.” Nat from Heavenly Blooms loves to create stunning, bespoke botanical, floral concepts with a unique and unforgettable style.

Boasting gorgeous panoramic views of the Yarra Valley, Riverstone Estate has a professional and friendly team who are invested in bringing outstanding experience to life; our team love what they do and deliver E P I C weddings.

heavenlyblooms.com.au | nat@heavenlyblooms.com.au @heavenlyblooms

karen@theriverstoneestate.com.au | theriverstoneestate.com.au @riverstoneestate

WEDDING HONEY

ROPE & PULLEY | PHOTOGRAPHY + VIDEO

Wedding Honey is all about providing your guests with a generous, personalised gift that says, “Thank you for holding a special place in our lives”. We offer 100 per cent Australian honey from beekeepers you can trust.

We create beautiful images, capturing candid moments that tell your story. We believe the best stories are love stories.

We also love coffee, so let’s catch up. hello@ropeandpulley.com.au | ropeandpulley.com.au

info@weddinghoney.com.au | weddinghoney.com.au | @_weddinghoney

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