Awe ­ Australian Wedding E-magazine

AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE

A N E C H O P U B L I C AT I O N

E V E R Y T H I N G YO U N E E D T O K N O W T O P L A N A B E AU T I F U L , S T Y L I S H W E D D I N G O N T H E N O R T H C O A S T

right move

perfect START dress, ring, flowers – done, what’s next?

You’re right in the middle of all the excitement of planning your wedding and your honeymoon, but have you thought about what comes next? Buying your first home, and getting a home loan that suits you, is the perfect start to your new life together.

Your local Mortgage Choice broker can help you cut through all the complexities of choosing a home loan and apply for the First Home Owner Grant. It’ll make getting your home loan easier than a trip down the aisle.

02 6687 5333

www.mortgagechoice.com.au/john.jenner

2 AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE

Welcome to Awe Magazine Online W

elcome to the 2010 edition of Awe, the magazine that has all the information you need to get your wedding plans underway.

Here at Awe we have searched for the newest and most interesting ideas to make your wedding an exciting and memorable

occasion for you and an enjoyable event for those you love and with whom you want to share your special day.

Eve Jeffery – Editor

Giveaway!

E

very time you use one of our advertisers for any of their fantastic services your name will go into a draw to

win this beautiful glass creation donated by Zakay Glass Creations Byron Bay. ‘The merkaba is a symbol of the perfect union between male and female, balance and harmony’, handcrafted by glass artist Asaf Zakay.

The draw will take place on March 11, 2011 and the prize winner will be notified by email as well as being featured on our website.

Closing date for entries will be February 25 2011.

AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE 3

AW E C O - O R D I N AT O R AMANDA BENNET T Amanda Bennett has been working for The Echo for almost two years and is responsible for the coordination of their quarterly feature publications.

This year Amanda, along with Echo sales manager Angela Cornell, decided that Byron Bay was in need of a locally produced wedding publication and, after looking at the current offerings, agreed that the magazine would be better online. This meant that the bride-to-be had the opportunity to peruse an online publication completely free of charge.

Amanda built the website, came up with the name Awe – Australian Wedding eMagazine and then went about co-ordinating the first publication.

‘I want to provide a one-stop site for anyone looking to get married in this beautiful Northern Rivers region, so that they don’t have to keep trawling through lots of wedding directory sites’, says Amanda.

‘I want a quirky, yet elegant publication that captures the spirit of this unique region. The wedding services showcased in Awe reflect the style and level of service that makes this area a premier wedding destination. Everyone included in this magazine is at the top of their field, and as a wedding is one the most special days in your life you need to work with the best to make your wedding dreams come true.

‘I hope you enjoy the publication – it is the first one of many more to come.’

Amanda x 4 AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE

AW E E D I T O R EVE JEFFERY Eve Jeffery is a journalist and photographer in the Northern Rivers and works for a weekly newspaper, The Echo.

Having lived in the Byron Shire for over 15 years, Eve has certainly seen her fair share of alternative weddings and once even unofficially officiated at the wedding of her best friend, where she performed a traditional pagan Handfasting.

‘We were on New Brighton Beach on a hot January day where bride and groom were dressed in full mourning costumes, complete with black veil and top hat – even the photos were all black and white. That is what I call tying the knot!’ ©2010 Echo Publications Awe would not have been possible without the help of these people.

AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE

Awe is produced by Echo Publications, publisher of:

THE BYRON SHIRE

www.echo.net.au

THE TWEED

CONTRIBUTORS Mandy Nolan Rachel Jeffery Victoria Cosford PROJECT MANAGER Angela Cornell COVER PHOTO Tree Faerie PRODUCTION MANAGER Ziggi Browning LAYOUT DESIGN Melanie Tongmar THE ARTISTS Bref, Cristina and Wendy ADMIN Simon Haslam, Janice Dutton

www.tweedecho.com.au

MODELS Anita Johnson, Bec Smith, Bernie Browning, Gail Hartnett, Grace Jeffery, Liz Mutkins, Marta Blair, Nakea Pyne, Peta Stenhouse, Ruby Collins, Ruby Jeffery PHOTOGRAPHERS Caroline from Mihaja, Donnatella Parisini, Kate Belle, Tree Faerie SPECIAL THANKS Deon Demouche, by the Sea

Hatz

and the brides who lent us their dresses!

ECHO STAFF Carmel Chetcuti, Gordon AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE 5

CONTENTS

Inspiring Awe

8

Entertainment 98

Bridal Fashion

12

A Very Entertaining Wedding

98

The Gown

12

Interview

The Suit

16

With Danni Carr & Ash Grunwald

The Bridal Party

20

Luscious Lingerie

24

The Marriage of… 108

Jewellery

28

Fascinators

34

Hair & Makeup

36

Wedding Planning 46

Chris & Stephanie

108

Adeley & Brian

112

Catering 116 Food

116

Wedding Cakes

122

Wine

126

My Kind of Wedding

46

Wedding Coordinators

48

Event Hire & Decoration

54

Flowers

58

Wedding Waistline

Wedding Gifts

64

Ceremony Music

70

Hens’ Weekend

Wedding Transport

74

Wedding Websites

78

Marriage Celebrants 80 Photographers & 86 Videographers Memories

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86

104

Fitness & Health 130 130

134

Wedding Venues 141 Venues

142

Honeymoon & 152 Guest Accommodation The Honeymoon

152

Then & Now

156

ORIENTIQUE byron bay

Orientique can help you put it all together for your special occasion.

Whether it’s a dress, shoes and accessories, a last minute ‘something special’ or something more casual for the after party.

Shop 7, Cavanbah Arcade, Jonson Street Byron Bay (opp. Beach Hotel) 02 6685 8566 www.orientiquebyronbay.com.au AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE 7

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AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE

T YING THE KNOT

Inspiring Awe PICTURE YOURSELF AND You stroll along and splash each other in the shore break and gaze vaguely at the MISTER RIGHT WALKING pebbles and shells washing in and out in HAND IN HAND ON your path.

A SANDY BEACH AT Then he stops. He takes both of your hands in his. He looks deep into your eyes.

SUNSET. THE SKY IS Cue violins. Your breath catches in your SEVEN SHADES OF throat and he, fumbling and awkward, PURPLE, CRIMSON AND pops the long awaited question. You throw yourself in his arms and between ORANGE.

tears and laughter say ‘yes, Yes, YES!’ and The waves gently lap on the shore and gulls it’s right about there that the romance of organising a wedding ends. wheel overhead while the warm breeze sends the last scent of spring jasmine Once you and your perfect partner decide swirling through your hair. to take the big plunge there is suddenly not enough time to get ready, even if you You see an old couple sitting together in plan a two year engagement. But getting a swing seat on the verandah of a house married doesn’t have to be stress and yet along the beachfront. They gently rock to more stress. Careful and realistic planning and fro and share a silent secret and you wonder if once, long ago, they were just like is the key to your enjoying the most the two of you. wonderful day of your life.

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P9

The first and most important thing

you’d be wise to go for something else.

to do is to set a date – everything else will

It’s probably a good idea to have two revolve around this and putting romance or three possible dates, as someone in aside, if the anniversary of your first kiss falls your family might not have known that a on the Tuesday three days before Christmas, wedding was on the cards and will get a bit annoyed at having to miss their HSC English exam because you are tying the knot that day. Even though getting married is all about you, you want as many of the people that you love and care for, and intend to invite, to be available to celebrate your big event – and let’s not take the shine off your little sister’s 21st by having it the day before.

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T YING THE KNOT

Once you have a firm date, the best thing to do is make the major decisions right away, then make a list. The first really major decision once the when is out of the way is the how much. This will be the key issue in organising the rest of the wedding.

expectations of your guests – those who love you for you won’t care how French the champagne is or if they are eating sirloin steak or apricot chicken. To have a hefty credit card debt for the sake of Aunt Maude’s opinion is an unnecessary burden at the begining of a life together and you There is really no point having a lavish might find that Aunt Maude might just wedding if you will spend the first nine years of marriage paying back the bank, but enjoy herself at the backyad barby. in saying that, getting hitched is one of the Once the date and the budget are set, single most momentous milestones in your then you can get down to the fun part life after walking and talking and should be of creating a day to remember. The next given the reverence it is due. important things on your list are: Decide what you really want on your special day, then decide what you really, really, really want and be prepared to compromise on the not so important stuff.

• The type of wedding you will have • The location of both the ceremony and the reception • Who will perform the ceremony

Do you want THE dress? Then have it. Go • Who you want to invite into your hell for leather on your leather and lace and bridal party maybe have a few less tiers on the cake. If • What type of dress, suit and rings the cake of your dreams is something you you will have can’t do without then maybe cut the per • The guest list. bottle price on the champagne and if Moët et Chandon is just what you always wanted, All that’s left do to do is work, work, work then maybe go for the backyard marquee until the big day – remembering the most instead of the ballroom at the Hilton. important thing about your wedding is that you are going to be married to the one you The other thing to remember is that the day is about your marriage, not about the love and that in itself should inspire Awe

T YING THE KNOT

AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE 11

B R I D A L FA S H I O N

The Gown PROBABLY THE SINGLE MOST IMPORTANT CHOICE A BRIDE WILL MAKE ABOUT HER WEDDING DAY IS WHAT TO WEAR.

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ow choosing an outfit or a look is difficult at the best of times, but on the one day when you are the absolute centre of attention you want to look your best.

are working with a designer, there is no harm in asking if you would like something added or subtracted from the original – not everyone wants a bunch of silk unicorns on their butt.

Be it demure or daring, sexy, or stunning, or just plain shocking, the choice of gown will be one of the things most remembered by others about your wedding.

CHOOSE FOR YOUR SHAPE

So where to begin? If you have no idea that is not actually a bad thing. You may have had in the back of your head since you were seven the style and colour of your wedding gown, but times and you have changed since then, so a fresh look at what is around is the go.

The other thing to remember is that for many body shapes, off the rack dresses can be perfectly beautiful on your wedding day.

A spray of baby’s breath here, grandma’s marquisite brooch there, sometimes a blank canvas gives you the perfect opportunity to accessorise.

Wedding magazines and the internet are a hive of information when it comes to outfits, but don’t limit yourself to the bridal range. If you already know what style of dress suits you, the services of your local dressmaker can never be underestimated and arriving with a handful of pictures and ideas can make the creation of your dress very personal and satisfying.

When looking for a style, remember that most of us aren’t going to look like Princess Di in a dress that belongs on the top of a cake. If you are old enough to get married, then you are old enough to know what your assets are and aren’t. This is the one time when you will probably go all out and get the thing you want, so if a side split to the hip is going to show off your great legs, then go for it. If you’re the owner of beautiful boobs then something low cut is the order of the day.

If you are going with a designer, have a thorough look through their range – you don’t want to be at the second or third fitting of a dress and discover, on another dummy in the corner, a gown that skipped your attention before and decide you must have that one instead. Also, if you

Something that must be remembered is that leading up to a wedding event the bride and bridesmaid will be under a lot of stress and weight can fluctuate. It’s a good idea to plan the final fitting within two weeks of the big day so that any last minute changes can be made.

P14

THE GOWN

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B R I D A L FA S H I O N P13

THE BABY BUMP

Another thing to remember, if you are pregnant, is that a style that looks great when you are two months could look rubbish when you are eight months and a cute little full length baby doll style with layer upon layer of chiffon and ribbons might simply be cumbersome, hot and cloying closer to delivery. Hiding baby by corseting is asking for trouble and a strict no-no. It’s not good for either mum or bub and anyone who will look down their nose at your baby bump shouldn’t be at your wedding in the first place.

Choosing a simple dress is going to create less stress and make you feel more relaxed on the day and it is a well known fact that women are at their most glowing and gorgeous when they are pregnant so exploit the opportunity and go Goddess!

AND THE SHOES? When talking about gowns, it is wise to visit the subject of shoes. Leaving shoe shopping to the last minute will only end in tears and the best remedy is to choose a shoe once you have decided on the dress.

A dressmaker and designer will need to

Photos courtesy of Kate Belle Photography 14 AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE

THE GOWN

know the height of a shoe if they are tofit a dress properly. A wedding on the beach with an interior reception may require two pairs of shoes – or none at all for the beach, in which case a flatter shoe may serve you better. I personally recommend the barefoot beach wedding as any footwear you may conceive, unless it has a heel like a snow shoe, will sink in the sand and cause sore feet as the grains get in all the wrong creases and scratch and scrape at your arches and toes.

Make sure you can walk in the shoes. If you don’t usually wear heels, then a six inch spike is not for you. If the dress is

B R I D A L FA S H I O N

long enough, you will only get glimpses of your feet anyway so going for comfortable and serviceable is a much better option.

It is a good idea to wear the shoes in; don’t think you can open the box on the day and a new pair of shoes will feel great. If you are also wearing hosiery, a pair of shoes can feel more slippery once your tootsies are in a pair of quality silk stockings. If you will be wearing any type of hosiery, take it with you when you go for a shoe fitting. If you are having shoes made, make sure you try them on one last time before you leave the cobbler. 

AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE 15

B R I D A L FA S H I O N

T

he biggest accessory to your wedding gown is the groom and the suit that he wears. It’s all very well and good for your future hubby not to see the bridal gown before the day but if he turns up in a lime green Zoot Suit and stands next to you in your seven layered Scarlett O’Hara Gone With The Wind ensemble, the marriage may not last long, if it happens at all.

Not all men are great at choosing clothes and it would probably be wise to either give him a good idea about what you will be wearing or, if it’s ok with him, just go shopping together.

Pinstripes are making a huge comeback and a well tailored pinstripe suit will stand the test of time and he can wear it at your children’s wedding as well – or at least out to dinner a few times. A good suit is worth spending the money on and is an investment worth making.

The Suit

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Decide from the start how formal you want to go. Does a full suit with waistcoat, cummerbund and tie fit the bill or will a nice dinner suit and silk shirt go well with your frock?

If your man will most likely never wear a suit after the big day, his best option may be to hire one. This might mean you can get somehing a little more dressy than you could afford to buy otherwise and the two of you can really make it a dressy formal occasion. 

Photo Donatella Parisini – www.donatella.com.au

Anne Leon Design creates bespoke bridal creations that cater for the discerning bride.

Anne is a textile artist, working with a variety of techniques to make each wedding unique.

By utilising plant-dyeing, screen-printing, hand-painting or marbling, exquisite fabrics are created, that become the heart of the bridal collection.

All the work is done in her studio, by hand, ensuring every attention to detail.

For an appointment, call Anne on 0407 030 122 or 02 6680 7088 B R I D A L FA S H I O N

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G owns ofE legance

47 Ashmore Road Bundall QLD 4217 ph: 07 5679 0434 www.gownsofelegance.com

G owns ofE legance welcomes you to the ultimate bridal shopping

experience! Welcome to a dream come true. With over 25 years’ experienced in the bridal industry, Gowns of Elegance will present to you more than the finest fashion. The team will bring you an incomparable level of service and tailoring that lasts to your wedding and beyond.

Whether you are looking for a Simple, Elegant, Modern, Classic or Vintage Gown, our grand store has it all.

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B R I D A L FA S H I O N

Glamorous style is now affordable at Chic Parisian Having designer style on a budget is possible. That beautiful wedding or evening gown you just loved in that glossy fashion magazine might seem like it’s out of your budget and just another item for your wish list but we love making those dreams come true!

We specialise in: Stunning Bridal Gowns from $500 - $795 Couture Bridesmaids, Formal and Evening Wear from $180 - $350.

Phone or email us today for your private appointment and we will help you find or create the dress of your dreams!

Julie I 0422 984 570 contactus@chicparisian.com.au I www.chicparisian.com.au By appointment only

EXCLUSIVE SHOWROOM OPENING SOON B R I D A L FA S H I O N

AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE 19

B R I D A L FA S H I O N

The Bridal Party 20 AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE

wedding. It is absoloutely reasonable for the WHO YOU WILL HAVE mother of the bride and the bride to make AS A MEMBER OF YOUR the speeches and I can tell you when my BRIDAL PARTY MIGHT BE daughters get married, I will have things to A CHOICE AS EASY AS say! (All of them good.)

Any decision to include or exclude PIE FOR YOU T, BUT IN you love – or don’t – from the MOST CASES IT’S NOT. someone bridal party that is made under pressure is I am a great believer in always remembering that your day is just that: your day. Choosing who to spend the most intimate moments of that day with should be a decision made purely on who you love the most and want by your side.

Sometimes the choice will come down to how many attendants you are having and, contrary to common practices, you don’t have to have a matching number of bridesmaids and groomsmen. If you have ten best buds that you must have but hubby only has four good mates, then so be it. Would you really leave out friends just to make the photo symmetrical?

There are no hard and fast rules as to who are the right people to have. Some combinations for the bride might include a best friend, a sister and the sister of the groom, just as for the groom they may include a brother or best mate as the best man, and the bride’s brother. If the only thing stopping the best man saying ‘Yes’ is the speeches, there are no rules that say he has to. If your best mate is your first choice, then change the protocol of the T H E B R I D A L PA R T Y

not a good decision. It’s going to be a long day and if you have to smile and be civil to your brother’s girlfriend even though you can’t stand her, by the time it’s all over, you will be a frazzled mess and you won’t have enjoyed the one day that is just for you.

There is no sense in sexism either. If your maid of honour is a man, so be it. If your best man is actually a best woman, then I am sure she is the man for the job.

Whoever they are, the people in your bridal party are the ones who are going to hold up your dress when you pee, share a straw with you from the mini bottle of champers, dab your tears and make you laugh when the stress gets to you, and tell everyone to stop banging on the door when you are already 45 minutes late and not sure if you are taking the right step in your life. They are also going to be the ones who feel secure enough in their relationship with you to tell you to get over yourself, pull your socks up and get out there and marry the one you love. They will be a voice of reason in what you know is going to be a busy, busy day and you simply want people you love and trust.  AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE 21

Le Chelle BOUTIQUE

THE WEDDING SPECIALIST

Mother of the Bride or Groom Bridesmaids Wedding Guests Party Dresses Shoes

Accessories Hats Fascinators Racewear Sizes 8 - 18

Open 7 days Shop 3, Ballina Street, Lennox Head 02 6687 6088 22 AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE

B R I D A L FA S H I O N

Owner/operator Mel Hargraves can almost guarantee that a wedding outfit purchased from sum1s will not show up on another attendant. She noted “It is your worst nightmare, especially if you are attending as part of the bride or groom’s party! Can you imagine the mother of the bride wearing the same outfit as someone else?”

We visited Mel in store recently to soak up some vibes and get ideas for wedding outfits.

She has been known to stock the odd recycled wedding dress, but that is not her core business. “Since opening in December 09, I have sold many wedding outfits, and I am always blown away at the number of themed weddings these days.” There is a diverse range of labels, sizes, and colours! Men are not forgotten. Actually, men’s shirts are very popular and cover casual to high end designs.

Next time you are deliberating on what to wear to a wedding, sum1s – located on the corner of Carrington and Magellan Streets, Lismore – is certainly worth a visit. Mel offered one last bit of advice: “A good posture can be the difference between an average and amazing outfit ... poise yourself positively”.

Corner of Carrington & Magellan Street, Lismore 0405 434 770 B R I D A L FA S H I O N

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B R I D A L FA S H I O N

luscious

Lingerie 24 AU S T R A L I A N W E D D I N G E - MAG A Z I N E

FOR SOME WOMEN, THE bras and knickers you have bought well before the big day.

ONLY TIME IN THEIR The reality is that no-one, hopefully, is ENTIRE LIVESTHAT THEY going to get a look at your frillies on the BUY LINGERIE IS FOR day, so don’t sacrifice the lines of your dress THEIR WEDDING. IF YOU for over-the-top lace and feathers. It would probably be better to get a barely there set ARE ONE OF THOSE of nude French knickers and a seamless bra LADIES, THEN MAKE IT to wear with the gown and save the really raunchy stuff for the after, after party in the COUNT! One of the really fun things you will do for yourself in the wedding preparations is get some sexy lingerie. Yes, I know Mr Right will enjoy it too, but possibly only for the five minutes it takes him to work out how get it off your body.

honeymoon suite.

Good lingerie will not only look good, it will feel good. If you have a tight corset that is strangling the last bit of living breath out you, then truly that is all you will be able to think about all through your ceremony, and I can tell you it does take air to open your mouth and say ‘I do’.

Have your lingerie professionally fitted so it shows you off at your best. Listen to the advice of the retailer, especially if lingerie is not usually part of your wardrobe.

Something that looks good on the store dummy or a poster on the wall may not look as good on you, so I would tell the staff at the shop what look you are after and let them create it for you. I cannot stress enough how important it is to get a well fitting bra. The proper bra will not only make your shape the most flattering, it will support you in the back and shoulders.

One of the first things to look at when buying underthings is what type of gown you are wearing. There is no sense in going out and purchasing a black lace with red ribbon trimmed ensemble to wear under a skin tight sheer white sheath, unless of course you are having a Moulin Rouge wedding. If you have a tight fitting dress, then make sure you have a trial run of any

One thing that is sometimes forgotten is what the groom might like to see you in.

Often how we see ourselves sexy and how our partner sees us sexy are two widely different things. Sexy doesn’t necessarily mean slutty, so the best person to ask for advice on what to wear is the person who you are wearing it for. If that person is yourself, then go wild! 

LUSCIOUS LINGERIE

AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE 25

B R I D A L FA S H I O N

Types Of Lingerie Babydoll a short nightgown

G-string a thin strip of fabric that slides between the buttocks and is attached Bedjacket worn over a nightgown or negligee for to a waist or hip band warmth and modesty Garter Bloomers a circle of satin or lace covered elastic underpants with short legs to hold up stockings Bodystocking Hosiery a sheer cover from neck to ankle all types of pantyhose and stockings including the arms and legs Bodysuit a leotard with snap fasteners in the crotch

Leotard once piece made up of bikini briefs and a top

Boy legs knickers that fit across the leg, not cut to the thigh contour

Negligee a lightweight sheer nightdress

Bustier a bra that has a ‘skirt’ extending to the waist or hips Camisole variation on a singlet Camiknickers one piece singlet and knickers

Spanky-pants cheerleaders knickers Suspender belt a belt with elastic pieces which snap on to stockings

Cami shorts knickers high cut over the butt

Teddy a variation on the one piece singlet and knickers

Corset a body shaping bustier

Unitard a bodystocking in heavier fabric

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LINGERIE

THE

LINGERIE DRAWER Contemporary elegance, discreet luxury and ultimate comfort designed to be playful, seductive and utterly spellbinding Byron Bay | 02 6685 7733 See our listing in the Knot Directory LINGERIE

AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE 27

B R I D A L FA S H I O N

Bridal

Bling WILL YOU ?

THERE ARE SO MANY The road to a wedding quite often begins DIFFERENT TYPES OF the gift of a ring. The engagement JEWELLERY ASSOCIATED with ring, or betrothal ring as it was historically WITH A MARRIAGE THAT known, was the token of the promise or contract to be wed at some time in ONE COULD SPEND the future and it is still, in many cultures, MONTHS GAZING considered binding.

THROUGH GLITTER These days the technicality of an engagement ring isn’t as important as is the FILLED WINDOWS romantic sentiment behind the asking and AND STUDIOS AND the giving. A lot of thought and energy are STILL NOT TIRE OF THE expended on the buying and acquiring of BEAUTY OF JEWELLERY this symbol of love.

In recent times, the stone of choice for OR THE SITUATION IN the engagement ring has been diamonds, WHICH TO GIVE IT. which according to one of our greatest style icons, are a girl’s best friend. The value Four of the main reasons for romantic and of diamonds made them a must have in wedding jewellery are the promise ring, the engagement jewellery and women began bridal collection, bridal party gifts and of speaking in terms of carats rather than course the wedding band. carrots.

P30

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BRIDAL BLING

helen luna jewellery designer, metalsmith, artist

www.helenluna.com.au helen@helenluna.com.au mb: 0409 152 885 t: 02 6680 4624

meet Helen on Fridays at Hammer & Hand Jewellery & Metal Collective 1/4 Ti Tree Place Arts & Industry Estate, Byron Bay (open 7 days, 10am-4pm)

JEWELLERY

AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE 29

B R I D A L FA S H I O N P28 Elizabeth Taylor became a collector of husbands and diamonds and Richard Burton bought a stone named Taj Mahal, which later became known as the Taylor-Burton Diamond. Probably the

In recent times the idea of diamonds has become less important as women have discovered the healing, revealing and metaphysical properties of a myriad of the earth’s minerals and stones that are being used in engagement rings – or just as often, no stone at all.

Many women are looking toward a more earthy theme in their engagement jewellery, especially as it is becoming more common for men to wear a promissory token and more masculine designs are being produced to satisfy the trend.

I WILL Many couples are choosing a jewellery theme as part of a wedding ensemble for their special day. Finding pieces of jewellery that complement the dress, the flowers, the shoes and the groom are becoming more sought after and often a collection of matching earrings, necklace and bracelets are worn. This idea seems to be a return to the days of the bridal trousseau, when a woman gathered bridal accessories most feasible reason for desiring such including jewellery, lingerie, toiletries and extravagant stones is less romantic than the makeup as well as household items to take beauty and more likely about their value. In to her new home.

Richard Burton’s words, ‘Diamonds are an The jewellery you have on your wedding investment. When people no longer want to see Liz and I on the screen, then we can day needs to be planned. It is just as important as the dress or chapel. It would sell off a few baubles.’ It is rumoured that the Taylor-Burton Diamond eventually sold be folly to buy a gown without first seeing how it looks with your jewellery P32 for US$5,000,000 in 1979.

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BRIDAL BLING

She shimmers...

Quality handmade jewellery by designer Leonie McIntosh Timeless and elegant pieces that will stand out and compliment any gown

t: 02 6628 0446 m: 0405 150551 www.sheshimmers.com.au

JEWELLERY

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B R I D A L FA S H I O N P30 and vice versa. Whichever you buy first, take it along to buy the other. A lace gown is going to get tangled up in long chains with lots of baubles and hooks, and necklines will be hidden or enhanced by the length of a rope of pearls or a pendant.

THANK YOU Another common jewellery item at weddings are bridesmaids’ gifts. Buying pieces for your attendants basically kills two birds with one stone. Firstly, the jewellery carries through the motif of the bridesmaids creating, with the dresses and floral arrangements, a central concept, while at the same time giving your special girls a token of your appreciation.

By giving different pieces in the same design, for example marcasite earrings, necklace, brooch and bracelet, and giving each bridesmaid a different piece to highlight their outfit or by giving each the same piece, maybe a string of pearls or a charm bracelet, you are claiming kinship with your bridal party. Tie clips or cuff links in the same design are a great gift for the fellows, who might not ordinarily buy jewellery for themselves.

I DO Above all, the highlights of any bridal jewellery collection are the rings. The band of love was originally worn only by the

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woman in a couple, but in recent times wedding bands have become just as commonly worn by men and, unlike other jewellery, the wedding ring is worn day and night and rarely removed.

Many engagement rings are now made to complement or become part of the wedding band set and it is common to see rings that actually slip into each other so the pair become one ring once joined – many wedding bands now have diamonds or the same stones as the betrothal ring and are much more elaborate than the plain gold bands used in the past – and gold itself is now often being replaced with white gold, platinum or even silver.

Now that is is becoming commonplace for men to wear wedding bands, his and hers sets are also available from many jewellers and rings can be designed to complement each other or have sections that fit into each other.

Whatever wedding jewellery you decide on, your collection is something you will keep forever and will become part of your family heirloom pieces. How often do you hear of girls wearing grandma’s engagement ring, or the ‘old’ in their wedding ensemble is their mother’s pearls. Good jewellery is a wise investment and you get what you pay for so buy quality pieces – remember, you only do it once. 

BRIDAL BLING

John Murphy Fine Jewellery

For anyone for any occasion

Shop 14, Ocean Village Shopping Centre, Ocean Shores 02 6680 5355 JEWELLERY

AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE 33

B R I D A L FA S H I O N

Fascinators MANY BRIDES ARE LOOKING TO FASCINATORS AS AN ALTERNATIVE TO THE TRADITIONAL BRIDAL VEIL. Fascinators are also a way to dress up the bridesmaids’ outfits and make the day a bit more elegant. Fascinators are one of the few bridal items that can easily be worn again after the wedding day. A fascinator’s veil can be made to flip over in much the same way as a traditional veil and up or down; the netting will still look good on the decorations. The possibilities are only limited by your imagination.

Fascinators can be fun to make or add to.

They can in themselves contain everything needed to fulfil the requirements of something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue. As with floral adornments, fascinators can carry through a theme in the wedding with style and colour. They can also be the vehicle 34 AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE

for pieces of jewellery that are important for sentimental reasons but that do not necessarily go with the dress, for example grandma’s pearls or your mum’s marcasite earrings. Simply get your milliner to fasten them to a fascinator to be worn as a headpiece or on the wrist like a corsage and the colour theme of the piece can then be taken from the dress. Small fascinator rosettes with the same theme can be made to fit the lapels of the groom and his men for something unique.

FASCINATOR DOS AND DONT’S • Do wear the fascinator around the house for a day to see what you can and can’t do in it.

• Don’t wear a lot of dark lipstick beneath a fascinator that covers your mouth unless it is held securely away from your face.

• Do take your dress when buying your fascinator and vice versa.

• Don’t attempt to take your fascinator off if it has been secured by your hairdresser.

• Do add your own personal touch to the trim and decorations.

• Don’t be afraid to be daring. 

FA S C I N AT O R S

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B R I D A L FA S H I O N

Luscious locks & pretty pouts 36

AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE

HAIR & MAKE-UP

THE DECISONS ABOUT HOW YOU WILL HAVE YOUR HAIR AND MAKE-UP DONE FOR YOUR WEDDING WILL AFFECT A LOT OF WHAT HAPPENS ON THE DAY. GETTING IT RIGHT WILL MAKE YOU FEEL RELAXED, THE PHOTOS LOOKING GREAT AND YOUR GUESTS ADORING BEAUTIFUL YOU. GO FOR WHAT YOU KNOW

PRACTISE, PRACTISE, PRACTISE

I believe that the first rule when deciding what to do with your make-up and hair for your wedding day. is to not try anything too outlandish and different unless you are going for a theme.

The second rule is just as important as the first, and that is always have at least one pre-wedding run through of both hair and make-up. If possible, have the trial with the dress on or buy a cheap shirt in a similar colour and neckline as your dress – even I remember years ago going to a wedding if it means getting creative with a pair of and a strange woman getting out of the car. scissors. If you don’t have a practice, you I was at the wrong ceremony! The bride’s will run out of time on the day to redo hair and face looked so different from how something that your artist had in mind, but I had ever seen her before that it was just you hate. really odd and a bit off-putting. She was a natural looking, pretty bleached surfer girl It is important to remember that your artists with wild hair and barely-there gloss. When are the experts and sometimes it takes she stepped onto the cobblestone driveway a lot of work and product to give you a of the church on her big day, even though natural look – you might jump out of bed she looked great, the silky dark ringlets looking great with nothing more than a and the fire engine red lippy were just too slick of gloss and everyone thinks you look much. Even now all these years later she still gorgeous, but to sustain that morning looks at the photos and wonders what the fresh look all day through the stresses and hell she was thinking. preparations for the wedding is just P38 HAIR & MAKE-UP

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B R I D A L FA S H I O N P37 not possible unless you have it done professionally.

When you visit your artists for the trial run, make sure you take the things you usually use in your own kit – it will help them see the colours and styles that you are used to. Maybe you are the only person on the planet who has that colour blush and it

Simple is better. Hair that is piled two metres into the air will not last through 200 bear hugs from Uncle Oscar.

may need to be used on the day, or you may use daily a type of hair fastener that is perfect for your hair producing an effect not achievable any other way.

Taking along magazines with large photos of your ideas is also helpful for the artist.

Speak up and don’t feel silly telling them your ideas – they are not mind readers – and don’t be afraid to stop them if you see something evolving into a style that is too elaborate or that yousiply just don’t like.

It is also important to show the artist any 38 AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE

veils, fascinators or headpieces that you will wear so they know how to work around them – if you have a full face fascinator, it may not be possible to pull it aside to do touch-ups.

If there is anything extraordinary about your make-up that may need retouching, purchase a spare from the artist. ‘Luscious Plum Bucket of Peackocks’ lipstick and ‘Chaste Bride Red Devours Pink’ blush may not be available at the 24-hour chemist you pass on the way to the ceremony, so get one before the day.

AFTER ALL YOU ARE STILL YOU One of the other important factors is your mood – time to be honest girls. Are you a crier? You would never believe who cries at weddings – everyone from the groom and Cousin Persephone you haven’t seen for 16 years, to the bridesmaids, yourself and even the celebrant may shed a little tear, but it is you that everyone will be watching and if you are going to produce Niagara Falls during the ceremony, then everything will need to be waterproof.

If you are a jumping-around-gettingexcited sort of girl who will heartily kiss and cuddle every guest many times and party hard until the last bottle of champers is demolished, then this information is helpful HAIR & MAKE-UP

to those creating your wedding look. Simple is better. Hair that is piled two metres into the air will not last through 200 bear hugs from Uncle Oscar. There is no point looking like a masterpiece for the first 11 minutes of the ceremony, then a shipwreck for the rest.

THINGS TO REMEMBER TO TELL THE ARTISTS When and where are you getting married?

is a worry, get one of those cute little lacy umbrellas or a dark and daring one. A nighttime wedding will require different make-up than a morning one – sunrise and especially sunset will give everything a golden, pink hue – so don’t be visiting the tanning booth beforehand otherwise you will look like an orangutan.

If the wedding is planned for outside, don’t P40 trust the weather forecast! Have

If it’s on the beach, long, loose hair is going to fly and it will end up in your make-up. No question. Also, make-up may begin to slip and slide if it is in summer and an over-the-top do might get hot and sweaty, not to mention heavy, if adorned with too many gadgets.

Outdoor weddings are more likely to have sunlight and the SPF factor in some foundations will make you too bright for outdoor photos; in fact for weddings I would suggest no SPF make-up at all, but check with the artist – if sunburn

HAIR & MAKE-UP

AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE 39

B R I D A L FA S H I O N P39 umbrellas at the ready and make sure the one for the bride is one of those huge golf styles. Have enough so there is one each for the maids and one for the bride’s mum.

HOW LONG WILL YOUR DAY BE? If you are having a wedding that goes from the minute you get out of bed at sunrise until the wee small hours of the next day, hair and make-up that can stand the test of time is what you will need. Be aware that no matter how excited you are, if your day is long you may need to have a nana nap or at least rest your eyes with a lie down. Plan your hair appointment for after 40 AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE

this or plan hair that doesn’t care.

ON THE DAY Give yourself plenty of time – you may know from the run through that it takes an hour to get ready, but was there ever a wedding that ran to a schedule? Not many.

People get flustered and rushed – things go wrong and plans need to change at the last minute. Making sure you have plenty of time will take a lot of pressure off you and the artists.

Give your artists clear directions on how to find you. You will most likely have gone to a salon or studio for the trial and if your artists will need a train, plane, speedboat or helicopter to get to you, they need to know that well in advance.

Remember any instructions from the artists – for example, they might want you to moisturise the night before and not in the morning or first thing when you wake up. They might need you to have two-day dirty hair to keep your style in place and no matter how tempting, if the hairdresser says “do not wash”, then just don’t, puh-lease.

P42 HAIR & MAKE-UP

a beautiful boutique salon offering a full hair and makeup service to the discerning bride Manik’ – the hair studio is located away from the hustle and bustle at the end of Byron Street, Byron Bay. The professional finish required for bridal and special occasion hairstyles, is in essence, what the stylists at Manik strive for. Up and down styles, fashionable, but with timeless elegance.

To prepare your hair for your special day, a consultation or trial is advised to formulate a plan to ensure your hair looks beautiful and lustrous on the day. Manik’ – the hair studio specialises in non-ammonia colouring, meaning that there is less stress on the hair, whether your hair is highlighted or your natural

mobile service available!

colour is glossed to perfection to bring out the natural hues. The salon also stocks a wide range of natural and organic shampoos, conditioners and styling products from around the globe.

Elusyion organic mineral makeup is also our brand of choice.

100% pure crushed bare minerals combined with certified organic ingredients, ultra– light weight gliding onto the skin, assisting to even out skin tones, reduce redness, scarring and imperfections. Long lasting for all day coverage, not a dusty powdery finish as many professional makeups do.

The range is inclusive of all eye makeup, eye and lip liners, mascara, blushes and bronzer.

shop 3 byron street byron bay 02 6685 6432 www.manikthehairstudio.com

manikthehairstudio@bigpond.com

We use Elusyion organic products HAIR & MAKE-UP

AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE 41

B R I D A L FA S H I O N P40 Ask one of your bridesmaids or friends to carry a small make-up purse to the cermony and reception containing: • compact mirror • lippy – touch-up before the photos (get someone to check your teeth) • cotton tips • purse pack hairspray • spares of any hair pins or clips used • spritz atomiser • tissues, tissues and more tissues.

YOUR ARTISTS Choose carefully. If you have trialled with someone and you do not like the result or you can’t seem to get across what you want, simply don’t book them. Your wedding is your absolutely special day and you need to feel comfortable and relaxed with your choice of helpers; you just don’t need the stress of anyone who is a drama queen, habitually late or someone who won’t listen to you.

Remember that professionals use professonal products that may be applied differently from the way you usually do your own. Don’t freak out if they bring out 27 different shades of lip pencil, a hair straighter and an eyelash curler. They are also trained in colour and style and you might find that when you see their suggestions that the yellow and green eye shadow and ‘Dolly Cut’ you have had since you were 15 no longer suit, and they have great ideas that do.

You hair stylist and make-up artist want you to look good. They also want you to feel that you look good. The finished product, you, is the best advertisement for their business so trust that they have the desire and know-how to make you the beautiful blushed-up bride that you want to be on your wedding day. 

Photo courtesy of Kate Belle Photography 42 AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE

HAIR & MAKE-UP

Wedding

Makeup Artists & Hair Stylists

Amour Photography

“Simply beautiful makeup and hair...simply great service!”

Professional makeup artists specialising in AIRBRUSH MAKEUP Qualified hairstylists experienced in BRIDAL UPSTYLES AND DESIGN

Request a quote and check availability www.makeup4brides.com.au www.hair4brides.com.au Phone: 1300 4 BRIDES 1300 4 27433 HAIR & MAKE-UP

“There is no confusing what we do!”

AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE 43

Professional, Byron Bay based stylist.

Specialising in creating beautiful personal wedding styles for the modern bridal party.

0400 009 656 02 6686 4425 www.traceytrezise.com.au

44 AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE

HAIR & MAKE-UP

Getting

Married

in Byron Bay?

We will have you looking fantastic on your wedding day.

Hair and Beauty Packages tailored to your desires.

Contact Tracey Foster 02 66 80 9868 HAIR & MAKE-UP

photo: CHRISTINA CALATHAS PHOTOGRAPHY www.christinacalathas.com.au

Come see us at Earthly Beauty Byron & The Edge Hairdressing Salon

Contact Sarah Foley 02 66858391 AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE 45

WEDDING PLANNING

My Kind of Wedding WHO, OF MARRIABLE AGE, DOES NOT REMEMBER THE WEDDING OF THE LATE PRINCESS OF WALES?

46 AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE

F

rom the moment that the engagement was announced to when Diana Spencer, in her £9000 dress with its eight metre train, stepped into the nave of St Paul’s Cathedral, the occasion was never going to be anything but a lavish, opulent, traditionally steadfast homage to the sanctity of marriage.

like a continental brekky followed by vows on the beach?

Themed weddings are always going to be fun, but we all remember Britney’s pink tracksuits don’t we? (YICK) A theme can create a very relaxed atmosphere, but you need to be flexible enough that Aunt Maude won’t have to ride on the Not everyone can afford or even wish for back of a Harley-Davidson from the Viper’s such fuss and fanfare, but every woman Pit Chapel O’ Love to the Satan’s Cellar who has answered with a ‘Yes’, whether she Bar and Nightclub. If you are choosing to admits it or not, has also thought about run with the devils, the only people who how she would like to get married. really need to wear red and black leather and little horns are the bridesmaids and The first thing to remember is that such an the groomsmen. If you want a relatively important day is probably not the time to stress free day, it will help if your guests try something new. If you are strictly a jeans are relaxed too and not fidgetting with and leather jacket girl, then looking like a outlandish costumes. cake decoration in a southern belle hooped dress and floral bonnet is probably not only Make it clear on the invitations that even going to look silly on you, but you won’t though you always wanted a Hades Halos feel comfortable and you just won’t enjoy handfasting, it is not a requirement that the yourself. guests have to join in and the dress code is casual.

Unless you plan a quick change somewhere through the celebrations, then you might No matter what you decide, it is important spend up to 12 hours in the dress, shoes and to make it clear on the invitations and give jewellery you put on for the ceremony. guests your phone number and email address and plenty of time to ask you any Things you need to look at are: How formal questions if they aren’t sure. an occasion you want your wedding to be.

Do you want all the traditional trimmings Once you have worked out the type of or are you after something simple? Will you wedding you will have, then it is simply follow the usual plan of ceremony followed a matter of filling in the organisational by a reception or did you think you might blanks! 

MY KIND OF WEDDING

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WEDDING PLANNING

SOME OF US JUST AREN’T ORGANISED AND THERE ARE FEW WEDDINGS THAT GO SMOOTHLY. THERE IS ALWAYS SOMETHING FORGOTTEN OR SOMEONE IS LATE OR A FINE DETAIL THAT JUST WASN’T PART OF THE PLAN.

Wedding Coordinators

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M

any couples are choosing to minimise the possibility of things going wrong on their day by enlisting the help of the wedding coordinator.

much input you want to have into the coordination of your event.

Choosing a coordinator should be done at length. If you haven’t had a personal I went to a wedding once where the couple recommendation, then go for someone local decided that they were so much in love that to where the wedding will be held and get they had to get married the next month. together with them for a cuppa and a chat.

A month. That is one month to organise a You are choosing the person to entrust with wedding. Even though the decision might not only the success of your wedding but not have been practical, they were smart someone who will be gracious and give you enough to get someone else to do all the a day that you would give yourself if only you legwork and they hired a coordinator to had the time, energy or the focus to do so. plan everything for them.

The more this person feels like a friend The best way to plan a wedding is have the better as they will get to know you someone else do it for you. Pay someone intimately in the weeks and days leading up who knows all the lurks and perks and to your marriage. Someone who is able to shortcuts to whip your wedding into shape think in your terms is what you are after. A and leave you with no more stress than person with great ideas and vision, but not deciding what nail polish to wear. one to be overbearing with what they think you should have without giving credence to Wedding planners can conceive of every your ideas and wishes. After all, they are just inconceivable issue, hiccough and detail really becoming an extension of you. that needs to be organised and there is little chance of the big day arriving Take along one of your bridesmaids when and them having forgotten anything or you meet the planner – they will probably anyone. Anything and everything from the have contact with them during the lead celebrant, guest lists, catering, music, cakes, up to the wedding and they can help you alcohol, photographers, the honeymoon, decide who is the best candidate for the dresses, suits, flowers, licences, guest books, job. You need to feel comfortable enough candles, bomboniere, shoes and even that with whoever you choose that you don’t all important shade of nail varnish can be have a stress attack wondering if they are left up to the planner to organise. The list getting it all right, because walking away of what they will remember and you won’t from stress is the reason you got them in is endless. You decide how little or how the first place.  W E D D I N G C O O R D I N AT O R S

AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE 49

Weddings and fine events with Atmosphere - Byron Events www.byronevents.com.au Wedding planning with fresh ideas.

Your one-stop event consultancy, committed to delivering the perfect wedding or event for any budget.

Utilising the beautiful backdrops of nature and infusing your event with that special Byron Bay magic.

Superior service and someone you can trust.

Byron events is dedicated to complete success and stressfree planning for your wedding every step of the way, or just when you need us.

Ensure success by entrusting your event to the experienced professional

Deon Demouche ph 0422 269 605 deon@byronevents.com.au www.byronevents.com.au 50 AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE

WEDDING PLANNING

Weddings Bay Byron & Events

Creating Beautiful & Stylish Events Getting married and creating a beautiful wedding should a wonderful journey. All weddings are styled and designed together with you to create your most pErfect wedding. Wether it is a romantic dining experience with fine wine and innovative cuisine or an ultmate weekend of celebrations with family and friends, all of our weddings that are created are special and unique.

All weddings are very special, whether it is an intimate romantic dining experience or an ultimate weekend of festivities with family and friends.

Our service provides professional wedding planning, efficient coordination and creative design with a modern approach to assist you in your busy life. We also provide a personal wedding assistant on the day who has been along this journey with you to ensure that everything runs smoothly.

We will create a Wedding for you that will be one to remember.

Our service provides professional wedding planning, creative co-ordinators or simply your own personal wedding assistant for the day of your event.

Our resources include: stationary assistance and quotations budget assistance venues – private properties, hotels and restaurants assistance with your guests information for the coming event personal commitment to interesting resources that will suit your needs celebrant / priest / rabbi or other denominations transport for bridal parties, vip’s and guests fine dining menus and personally designed menus by our caterers with beverages to match entertainment for ceremonies and reception BYRON BAY WEDDINGS & EVENTS – info@byronbayweddingsandevents.com // www.byronbayweddingsandevents.com // 0413 111683 floral design personal wedding and event stylist hire of equipment and marquees pre and post wedding celebrations and venues

For further information or a free consultation contact me on the details below.

Jane Magnus - Creative Director & Wedding Planner

BYRON BAY WEDDINGS & EVENTS E: info@byronbayweddingsandevents.com // W: www.byronbayweddingsandevents.com // T 0413 111 683 WEDDING PLANNING

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B Y R O N B E AC H WEDDINGS

Bliss on the

beach If you dream of having a Byron Bay wedding let the team of experienced professionals at Byron Beach Weddings work with you to make your dreams come true.

Byron Beach Weddings specialises in creating elegant weddings at memorable locations from classic barefoot beach celebrations followed by sunset cocktails - maybe on the deck of the Surf Club - to a lavish feast in the lush hinterland rainforests of Byron Bay, or an elegant formal wedding dinner at your home. BBW recently celebrated ten years as a leading wedding co-ordinator and caterer. Its wealth of catering experience, local knowledge and contacts enables BBW to create a seamless, picture perfect event wherever your venue, whatever your budget. BBW’s dedicated team can tailor every aspect of your event to suit your individual requirements.

BBW is able to arrange your ceremony, venue hire, styling, menu planning, catering, entertainment, fabulous flowers and photographers.

BBW is able also to organise the hire of all goods that you need, staffing, and beverage service. We make it easy for you to reserve your date and then co-ordinate services that you require in one contract to take the stress out of your wedding day and allow you to relax and enjoy the happiest day of your life.

www.byronbeachweddings.com.au mpegum@byronbeachweddings.com.au phone 0411 823 958 52 AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE

WEDDING PLANNING

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www.idoperfection.com WEDDING PLANNING

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WEDDING PLANNING

Event hire & Decorators YOU ALWAYS WANTED TO HAVE A BEACH WEDDING, WITH FRANGIPANI STREWN ALONG A PATH FROM THE ROADWAY TO THE SAND, AND TO HEAR THE SOUNDS OF THE WAVES SPLASHING ON THE SHORELINE CREATING A SONIC BACKDROP TO THE TINKLING OF CHAMPAGNE GLASSES. This is how you dreamed your wedding would be but how will Aunt Melba and Nana Gladys ever cope with standing around in the wind and the sun while you and your loved one speak the carefully written vows you wrote together, on another special night, in the sand?

diaphanous curtains floating on the late evening summer breeze – all in your own back yard.

It is possible to have whatever type of wedding you want in any setting with the help of hired decorations, aisle set-ups and furnishings. You could have a wide range of celebrations from a lavish beach cocktail reception with bar, marquee, chairs and carpet to luxurious chaise and lounge chairs with candelabras and elegant vases.

What about an Arabian Nights themed wedding with low tables and silk cushions?

Just imagine gorgeous platters of MiddleEastern treats being delivered to tables where everyone can share in a communal You are only limited by your ideas and you feast couched in a tent of wall hangings and can be comforted by the fact that Melba 54 AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE

and Gladys will be well catered for in every way. The hardest part will be deciding what you want. Once you know what your dream wedding will look like, it is a simple matter to fill in the blanks about how many, and special requirements of, your guests. It is a good idea to know from the outset how many people will need to sit down and make sure you have enough chairs in your island luau – let go of the idea that everyone needs to eat kneeling in a circle. If you and your partner are happy, then everyone will be happy to join you and watch from the comfort of something less tribal.

Lighting is also another way to tizzy up a room. Hiring hundreds of fairy lights, a few lamp posts, Chinese lanterns and carnival globes is going to make any wedding party feel magical and special. A dreary room can be transformed with nothing more than good lighting. Just make sure that there is a well lit corner for your nana and your aunty to see what treats you are serving up.  Photo courtesy of Kate Belle Photography E V E N T H I R E & D E C O R AT O R S

AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE 55

Cover my Event elegant • affordable • memorable Chair Covers & Centrepieces Sashes - Glass bowls - Tealight Holders - Candles - Vases

Northern Rivers & Gold Coast ph: 0422 592 284

www.covermyevent.vpweb.com.au 56 AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE

E V E N T H I R E & D E C O R AT O R S

beutiful and eclectic wares

new and vintage decor furnishings designer flowers retail for the home and garden hire for weddings and events open wednesday to saturday or by appointment 02 6680 7474 info@ivorybay.com.au www.ivorybay.com.au E V E N T H I R E & D E C O R AT O R S

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W E D D I N G P L[ AANNNNIINNGG

Flowers WHAT IS A WEDDING WITHOUT FLOWERS? FROM THE BRIDAL BOUQUET TO THE TABLE DECORATIONS AND FROM THE MOTHER OF THE BRIDE’S CORSAGE TO THE GROOM’S LAPEL, A WEDDING JUST WOULDN’T BE A WEDDING UNLESS THERE WAS A FLORAL ACCOMPANIMENT.

58 AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE

BRIDE’S PERSONAL FLOWERS Traditionally a bride carries a posie that will at some stage be thrown to the four winds for a lucky girl to catch in hope of receiving a proposal – and haven’t we all seen the scramble as desperate women claw and clamber to catch the flying symbol of the end of oldmaidhood.

These days many brides have a separate small posie made for the purpose, choosing to keep their own bouquet for sentimental reasons, to dry or keep in the house after the ceremony as a short but lovely reminder of her special day.

Also many modern brides have a spray or a bunch of long stemmed roses or lillies which are harder to throw than a traditional posie.

CREATING CONNECTIONS Carrying the theme from the bride’s flowers onto the lapels of the groom and groomsmen is a simple but effective touch.

Even a sprig of jasmine or wisteria or a bloom of iris can create a lovely keynote to these floral arrangements – and there is always, of course, the classic beauty of roses that symbolise love like no other flower can.

Continuing the theme with the bride’s and groom’s parents is also a nice touch and creates the feeling of a special connection between new and old family members.

Taking the theme one step further, a sense of togetherness can be created by FLOWERS

decorating the reception tables with the theme flower, especially with the addition of some simple greenery. Dotted with some candles, your plain tables will become artpieces in themselves.

Other themes can be created by using one colour, for example wisteria, iris and jacaranda for a purple theme, or marigolds, gerberas and tigerlillies for a splash of orange. There is an abundance of roses in many colours and you just can’t go past white lillies, jasmine and daisies for a clean crisp look.

WHAT FLOWER IS BEST When choosing flowers, looking for what is in season is going to give you the best results, and even though most flowers are available for longer periods through greenhouse growing, flowers in season will have brighter, more vibrant blooms and last longer in arrangements.

Most of the time, flowers that are in season are less expensive than ones that have to be grown in climate controlled conditions; and remember that the garden in your own yard might also hold in store something special for your wedding day.  AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE 59

29 Fletcher St, Byron Bay Ph: 02 6685 5209 email: passion@passionateflowers.com.au website: www.passionateflowers.com.au

byron bay’s beautiful florist passion@flowers – because we’re passionate about what we do, as well as the medium we work with – stunning creations by Mother Nature. passion@flowers is a gorgeous boutique florist in the heart of Byron Bay. Let us assure that you will be impressed by the exotic and stylish work that is created at passion@flowers.

We love combining colours, textures and unusual materials, of only the most perfect quality.

Creating all things floral, be it a stunning single stem, a beautiful bouquet or a gorgeous arrangement for that special dinner party.

wedding flowers are our speciality The magic of Byron Bay and all that it offers attracts couples from far and wide. We cater for all weddings; large or small, formal or casual. We’re able to make everything from a simple bouquet to a full decorated reception. Your wedding day is to be relished and enjoyed. Be assured that we will work closely with you to make your day as beautiful as you imagined. With your ideas and our experience we will work together to create a unique look for your wedding.

To view more of our beautiful work go to www.passionateflowers.com.au

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FLOWERS

Lavish Floral Design creates the full Bridal experience without the stress, specialising in unique wedding flowers to suit all styles and budgets.

Take time to come in, relax in our bridal lounge & discuss individual options with our passionate wedding designers.

At Lavish we pride ourselves on our high standards and attention to detail.

We seek out the highest quality products and freshest ideas. From a single flower to a designer bouquet every arrangement that leaves Lavish is a work of art.

131 Keen St Lismore NSW 2480 ph 02 6622 6430 www.lavishfloraldesign.com

FLOWERS

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FLOWERS

Bangalow Rose is the newest flower shop in Byron Shire We are an innovative cutting edge boutique flower shop in Bangalow. Creative and talented, we can provide you with the most beautiful flowers for your wedding day, or any occasion.

We, at Bangalow Rose, pride ourselves on freshness, cutting edge design, tailored to suit any bride and budget. We keep up also with the latest style in wedding flowers – such as ‘Post Modern Eclectic’ – all the rage for this season…

So, if you are planning to ‘tie the knot’ in or around the Byron/ Tweed Shire any time soon, why not give us a call, and we will happily arrange an appointment for you to call in and discuss your special day.

Flowers for Weddings, Home, Gifts & Events

Shop 2/5 Lismore Road, Bangalow 02 6687 2311 / 0431 159 560 / georgina@bangalowrose.com.au FLOWERS

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WEDDING PLANNING

The gift for

Forever HANDS UP WHO HAS OPENED THE CUPBOARD OF A PARENT AND FOUND A FONDUE SET? STILL IN ITS BOX? MUM AND DAD GOT IT FOR THEIR WEDDING IN THE 70s? I THOUGHT SO. Buying a wedding gift is always a dilemma. How much should be spent, how extravagant should the gift be, and how well you know the couple will all come into play when deciding what to get.

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THE GUEST You are buying the gift for the couple to help them in their new life, not to impress them with your bank balance or knowledge of ancient civilisations and the types of tribal masks they used for fertility rights. Buy them something you know they need, even if it is a small item. How many times have I searched for a decent cork screw! If you don’t know what they want or need, ask someone a little closer or buy a gift voucher, which is actually a perfectly acceptable gift for someone you don’t know well.

collective dollars toward a big gift like a television or a refrigerator.

WISHING WELL

For the bride and groom, there are three ways to make gift giving simple for your guests. It may seem a little calculated, but none the less, very practical for both the giver and the receiver.

I love the Wishing Well and I think, regardless of what other arrangements are made, everyone should have one. What better way to help along a newly hitched pair by giving them some cash to spend on what they need. On the flip side, I knew a couple once who had everything they needed in their home and life. They set up a wishing well at their wedding, with the idea of using the contents purely for a treat – they spent the money on a wonderful weekend away with a balloon ride and a nice bottle of champers. I was really thrilled to know I had contributed to such a great gift!

REGISTER

IN KIND

A wedding resister is a great dea. Find one or two shops that have registers or ask your favourite shops to set up a register for you and make a wide selection of items. Make sure you have several pieces in each price range so that people have a choice and won’t feel embarrassed if all the cheapy stuff has already been purchased. Some shops will even put the singly given,

Not everyone you know may have spare cash to splash, but they may have a talent or a craft that they can share with you.

My good friend does great scrapbooking.

If I was expecting a prezzy from her, I would give her a bunch of photos and memorabilia and get her to do her stuff.

I know people who make great food and cakes, quilts, mead, murals, pottery P66

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P65 and hanging baskets. In fact, my friends and family could supply an entire table full of gifts that they could create themselves. Don’t be shy to ask, either. I am sure if you ask Uncle Pete to make you one of his great Majolica style pottery fruit bowls, complete with the lizards, owls and butterflies, he will be tickled pink.

THANK YOU

Once a tradition in European wedding culture, the party favour or bomboniere has spread to many other occasions including children’s birthday parties. Traditionally bomboniere was a small piece of netting, maybe even bridal tulle, wrapped around five sugared almonds and secured with a Last and definitely not least, remember that piece of white ribbon. the thought really does count. The wedding I remember as a child growing up in is about the marriage, not the gifts.

Melbourne, it was not unusual to see the small white netted packages strewn across a table after a neighbouring Greek or Italian family had attended the previous day’s wedding. I have vivid visions in my mind of coveting the small parcels of elegance knowing that if I had one, I would be transformed into a princess and have bomboniere everyday. The urge was to own the tulle more than the enclosed nuts – bomboniere seemed magical.

Bomboniere are a lovely addition to a wedding and can be made quite inexpensively or extravagantly, using almonds, or wrapped chocolates and trinkets found at scrapbooking suppliers – small bags are readily available at haberdasheries and the fun of stuffing can be something to keep hands and minds busy, on the eve of a wedding day. 

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THE GIFT FOR FOREVER

fine threads Bed linen designed to sleep in and enjoy ...

Her Shed is a boutique bed linen company that strives for quality and uniqueness. We have a passion for natural fibres; linen, silk, silk velvet and cottons. Her Shed offers a beautiful and romantic collection of seasonal quilts, Marcella quilts, pure linen and cotton bed linen.

We love that our range is hand finished with embroidered details such as elegant hemstitch, featherstitch or embroidered stitches.

Our most popular and gorgeous linen and silk coverlet or throw is such an elegant piece that it transforms any room into a romantic and luxurious retreat! What a beautiful wedding present matched with exceptional quality linen sheets that are so wonderful to sleep in…

Our accessories range includes gorgeous hand embroidered silk and cotton night dresses with matching kimonos. A gorgeous collection of unique contemporary lacquer boxes in a range of designs and colours, along with mother of pearl bowls which make an exquisite gift and addition to any room.

Please visit our website to view our range and phone us to discuss how your bridal registry can be set up. Her Shed offers unique packages to style your special Wedding night with an exclusive selection of bed linen. Choose from our silk and linen cover with matching linen sheets.

0410 615 626 • www.hershed.com.au 10/19 Centennial Cct, Byron Bay Arts & Industry Estate

WEDDING GIFTS

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The Byron Bay Trading Company offers wonderful gifts to spoil the bride and groom on their wedding day.

Supplying the world’s best homewares, choose from practical, stylish and elegant gifts that are sure to impress. Our vast kitchenware range includes state-of-the-art Titanium cookware, stove top coffee makers, and Le Creuset cookware from France. We stock the finest Riedel crystal glasses and decanters, and Japanese and European knives.

Our Cuisinart electrical range of toasters, mixers and ice cream makers is simply stunning.

For the bedroom, we offer luxurious Egyptian cotton sheets, and cushions and throws. We have a great range of beautiful candles and candle-holders.

And for outdoors, how about a hammock for lazy days, or a dazzling Moroccan lantern?

We stock plenty of gorgeous gadgets and unique gifts too, for when you just can’t think of what to buy.

The Byron Bay Trading Company offers the best quality at the best possible discounted price, with a 100% guarantee on everything.

We’ll happily set up a Gift Registry for you. We also offer gift vouchers, gift wrapping and delivery.

You’ll find the Byron Bay Trading Company at 3/111 Jonson Street, opposite the Byron Bay cinema.

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WEDDING GIFTS

ZAKAY GLASS CREATIONS

gallery and studio

unique gifts

handcrafted in Byron Bay

Stunning sculptures by glass artist Asaf Zakay.

Beautiful gifts that will be cherished forever.

Each design is based on sacred geometric symbols that bring peace and harmony.

Gallery open Mon to Fri 10am–5pm 6/102 Centennial Cct Byron Bay Arts and Industry Park, NSW www.zakayglasscreations.com samaya@zakayglasscreations.com +61 2 6685 6255 0414 596 326 WEDDING GIFTS

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WEDDING PLANNING

Music for the ceremony

A WOMAN I KNOW WALKED DOWN THE AISLE WITH THE GROOM ON HER ARM. A BIT UNCONVENTIONAL AT THE TIME, BUT AS EVERY BRIDE SHOULD, SHE WAS DOING IT HER WAY. The couple had chosen very boppy entrance music and the soon-to-be husband couldn’t help himself and began to bop along with the beat of the tune. The bride’s mother was mortified. I thought it fantastic and decided that from then on it should be law that dancing be a part of the bride’s entrance.

Some couples like to choose a song from a time when they first got together, and others will choose something meaningful that can take them into the future. A popular option is live music and the strains of chamber music or the strumming of a single guitar, a harp or a lilting flute can add a special touch to a wedding.

Okay, so not everyone wants to bust a move on their way to the altar but the music played on both the arrival and departure of the bridal party is always a notable part of the ceremony, and the choice is usually one of the more fun aspects of creating a wedding.

It’s always a good idea to put the songs you want in the order that you want them played on a CD without anything else. If you tape ‘Bridge Over Troubled Water’ on top of ‘Mister Bombastic’ you could end up with ‘I will lay me down with a mister lubba lubba!’

Leave the music in capable hands.

P72

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WEDDING PLANNING

CEREMONY MUSIC

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P70 Your brother’s mate who arrives at the wedding in his footy shorts with a stubby in one hand is not that person. Be really clear about when you want the music on.

If you are having live music, organise to

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have a listen before you make your choice.

Ceremonial musicians will have either a sample on their website or a demo CD that you can listen to.

The type of ceremonial music you have is also one of the aspects of your wedding that expresses your personality and really there are no rules, so fill up your senses with John Denver, never be lost without Delta Goodrem, or sing along with Mister Ro-man-tic Shaggy. A Boom! Boom! Boom! 

CEREMONY MUSIC

Classical Harpist Margaret Curtis

As the most recent addition to the classical music genre here in the Northern Rivers my objective is to make your special occasion more memorable!

‘Music is so important in setting the mood. It represents the whole approach to the moment.’

p 02 6687 2845 m 0425 274 903 e me.curtis@bigpond.com CEREMONY MUSIC

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WEDDING PLANNING

Planes, Trains & Automobiles YOU ALWAYS KNOW WHAT’S HAPPENING WHEN YOU SEE A SLEEK CAR PASS YOU BY WITH WHITE RIBBONS STRETCHING IN A ‘V’ FROM THE FRONT OF THE BONNET. PASSERS-BY CRANE THEIR NECKS TO GET A GLIMPSE OF THE PRETTY GIRL INSIDE. Arriving at your wedding is one of the most exciting parts of your day. There are few visions that evoke such a feeling of the warm and fuzzies in total strangers watching from the footpath, and the guests are always bursting with anticipation waiting for the appearance of that bridal car. For this grand ceremony opening, many couples are choosing interesting variations on the wedding car.

the back of a 1963 Harley-Davidson DuoGlide FLH Foot Shift Panhead motorcyle; 1963 was a very good year!

Another great look would be a VW Kombi van. You could fit the bride, bridesmaid, the father of the bride, all the flowers and even the pet dog in one of those – they mostly seat seven passengers.

You could arrive by yacht like Danni Carr from our celebrity couple story or Vintage and classic cars are popular though depending on where you were having the the look of a new Mercedes is also a winner, service, fly in by helicopter – though I am but why not try something different? not sure where you would put the ribbons.

A horse and cart or stylish buggy will make Better still jump out of a helicopter and trail an equestrian impression or, if you are super the ribbons behind you. Careful not to get daring, hitch up your skirts and get ride on them caught in your parachute! 

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WEDDING TRANSPORT

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Lismore & District Wedding Cars You will be conveyed to your special ceremony, photo session and reception in style and luxury with an emphasis on personal service.

Our three classic long wheel-base Jaguars offer extended leg room in the rear and provide luxury and comfort whilst creating a lasting impression dressed with traditional white satin ribbon and tulle.

Please contact us to discuss your wedding day transport needs, as you will be pleasantly surprised as to what we can offer at a very reasonable cost.

Call Lismore & District Wedding Cars on 02 6624 8209 or email cotter_chris@yahoo.com

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WEDDING TRANSPORT

Make an entrance you will never forget!

Arrive by helicopter!

Operating out of Ballina/Byron airport Seats up to a party of six VIP transfers/luxury aircraft

For bookings or a quote

02 6681 4915 www.airtg.com.au mail@airtg.com.au

WEDDING TRANSPORT

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WEDDING PLANNING

Wedding site YOU CAN FIND ANYTHING YOU WANT ON THE WEB THESE DAYS AND ANYTHING YOU COULD POSSIBLY NEED FOR YOUR WEDDING IS NO EXCEPTION. FOR STARTERS, YOU HAVE FOUND AWE MAGAZINE! There are all types of wedding and wedding related websites and it’s actually a good way to shop. You can literally let your fingers do the walking and get to see a lot of what you will need before you even start shopping.

Wedding websites save you a lot of time because they cater for brides. They have collected in one place services and directories that you may not have even thought of and they are a good resource for jogging your ideas into reality.

the web has auction sites! One of our featured brides bought a lot of the things she needed from the shops and auctions pages of a site gathering all the small things like coasters and cars, bomboniere knick knacks and even her dress.

Another great wedding website idea is to have a website created especially for your own wedding. You can invite your friends, family and guests to follow your journey from engagement to the altar with photos, Many wedding and bridal websites will also important diary dates (like the hens’ and bucks’ night), gift registry details and a have great offers, seasonal bargains and blog of the countdown to your wedding package deals that you can look at. They day. You can also keep up with the RSVPs will have a directory of tried and trusted and other details of your guests and post service providers, for example wedding details of changes to your day. Wedding coordinators or photographers, and can websites are set up for you and easy to offer a package to suit your needs. You are maintain – all you have to do is add your able compare deals to get better value for you bridal dollar, and really, let’s be honest: personal touch!  78 AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE

The Wedding Site Of... personally customised websites for the bride & groom

Planning your wedding can prove to be a daunting task and making sure your guests are well informed of your plans in terms of the engagement party, hens’, bucks’ and wedding day venues is a feat in itself.

This is where I can help. Having your very own personally designed wedding site will allow you to stay organised. You can collect RSVPs, share photos, have a direct link to your wedding gift registry and more.

I have a number of site templates for you to choose from, depending on your personalities and you will even get your own personal wedding blog diary to keep your guests updated with how your plans are going – it will take the seriousness out of your wedding organising and instead create a fun (and I’m sure amusing) way of staying in touch.

0432 479 522 02 6688 4202

www.theweddingsiteof.com WEDDING WEBSITE

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CELEBRANTS

Celebrants THE CELEBRANT YOU CHOOSE TO PERFORM YOUR WEDDING CEREMONY WILL NOT ONLY SET THE TONE FOR THE VOWS YOU EXCHANGE; HE OR SHE WILL COLOUR THE ENTIRE CEREMONY WITH THEIR PERSONALITY SO YOU NEED TO MAKE SURE YOU GET THE RIGHT ONE. By the time you get to the point of making your choice you will have already decided on what type of ceremony you are having so your options will be clear.

If you are having a church or religious service, you will probably be limited to the clergy who are affiliated with the venue you use. There is little if any crossover between the denominations so, if the venue is important to you, you will most likely have to go with the resident clergy. There will be a little leeway on clergy within denominations and if you would like a particular minister to marry you out of their usual area this can sometimes be arranged, though few religious ministers or priests will perform a marriage out of a church and is it only in unusual or extraordinary circumstances that this will happen.

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If you are planning on using a civil celebrant, then the spectrum of ceremonies opens up to be almost endless, though a good idea to remember is that not all celebrants will automatically do everything everywhere – if you want your vows said underwater while you are scuba diving, you are going to have to find a specialist for that.

The first port of call is to ask your friends which celebrants they have used. Word of mouth is a great tool for narrowing your choices and you can be guaranteed to hear all the goss about who used whom and where.

Something you need to find out when choosing your celebrant is their personal ceremony style. Some couples are quiet and a gregarious celebrant will be a welcome addition to the day by making sure that the ceremony is lively and welcoming. Some couples have all the personality they need and all they require for their service is the legal details completed in the proper manner. You need to convey to your celebrant what type of service you need and how much involvement beyond the necessities you need them to have. Finding someone who you feel comfortable with is paramount; this is the person who will tie your knot – you need to trust their ability to make your day wonderful. Looking at photos, videos and testimonials on their website will give you a good idea.

go with, the next thing you must do is give them as much information about your day as possible – things like a wedding on ice or a clown theme is something they should know before they get there so they can buy skates or a red nose. They need to be prepared for any unorthodox events before they arrive.

Word of mouth is a great tool for narrowing your choices and you can be guaranteed to hear all the goss about who used whom and where.

Your celebrant also has certain legal obligations as far as your actual marriage is concerned. A time frame no shorter than a month is required to fulfill that obligation, so don't be under the impression that you can run away and get married in a little chapel o' love on a whim. It might seem romantic but it just won't happen.

One last thing to keep in mind is that weddings are surprisingly seasonal, so what you might think is a unique time to get married in a certain location might also be the time that everyone else also thought of the same great unique idea – the lesson is to book early and be prepared to have to change dates if you are determined to have a particular celebrant perform your When you have decided which celebrant to ceremony.  CELEBRANTS

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Carla Dalton Celebrations Are you looking for a young and enthusiastic, fully trained and professional marriage celebrant for your dream wedding on the Gold Coast?

Carla Dalton can help! She has performed hundreds of ceremonies for every kind of bride and groom you could imagine, in breathtaking chapels, beautiful gardens, stunning private homes, on mountain lookouts and the many fabulous beaches the Gold Coast has to offer.

She will help you to create a personal and meaningful ceremony, giving you as much or as little input as you desire. Your ceremony is all about you and you deserve the best!

“Thank you so much for helping to make our celebration so beautiful. With your expertise, knowledge and friendly, calm guidance we were able to create a personal and uniquely special ceremony that we’ll remember happily forever. We so enjoyed getting to know you and having you share our day. I would highly recommend you, and you are fantastic at your craft!”

Colin & Annie (December 2007)

Carla Dalton 0403 800 099 Authorised Marriage Celebrant www.carladaltoncelebrations.com.au

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CELEBRANTS

Absolutely Byron Bay Celebrant Irena Kirpichnikova

Weddings, renewal of vows, elopements, theme and extreme ceremonies

Your ceremony is the most precious part of your day, having a skilled celebrant is the difference between an event being mediocre or the most inspiring experience of your lifetime.

Every couple have their own ideas as to a ‘perfect day’, together we will create your most unique ceremony and I will have just as much fun and pleasure creating and performing it, as you will on the day!

Please go to my website to see all my services and photographs of gorgeous and interesting weddings.

www.absolutelybyronbaycelebrant.com irenais@bigpond.com ph 0404 093 919 CELEBRANTS

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My name is Roz Copley. I am an authorised Civil Celebrant based on the Gold Coast.

It would be my privilege and honour to be chosen for your ceremony. I am committed to providing you with a ceremony that reflects your personality and portrays your love and commitment to each other.

I maintain a high standard of professionalism, at the same time assuring you have a fun-filled memorable day. I welcome the opportunity to discuss your special ceremony.

Whether it be … A Wedding for soulmates, A commitment with the person who means the world to you, Welcoming the newest little member by Name, in a formal introduction to family and friends, or maybe it’s time to renew your vows and begin a new chapter in your LIFE story.

Whatever your special celebration large or small ~ give me a call on 0414 638 936 or visit my website at www.doitforlove.com.au.

I would love to hear from you.

Cheers!

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CELEBRANTS

DES KELLY

MARRIAGE CELEBRANT WEDDINGS FUNERALS NAMINGS COMMITMENT CEREMONIES AND VOW RENEWALS

we d d i n gs f u ner als naming s w edd in gs f une r a l s na mi ng s Des Kelly is a Civil Marriage Celebrant (CMC) and Justice of the Peace (JP) located in Lismore, NSW. Apart from conducting marriage ceremonies, he also conducts renewal of vows, commitment ceremonies, baby naming ceremonies and funeral services in Byron Bay, Ballina, Lismore and throughout the Northern Rivers and Gold Coast, Australia.

Des’ integrity, honesty, sincerity and compassion are the key points to his success as a Marriage Celebrant and one can be assured that his attention to detail, his passion for family life and his professionalism will draw you to him and make you appreciate any service he performs for you.

Thank you, Des, for your major role in our wedding ceremony. Your experience, valuable suggestions and understanding made our marriage ceremony an unforgettable occasion, not only for Kristie and me, but also for our family and friends.

We are so pleased you were available and hope you will be involved in our future special occasion ceremonies.

Luke and Kristie

02 6624 4053 041 007 6868

www.marriage-celebrant-des-kelly.com.au CELEBRANTS

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PHOTOGRAPHERS

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Memories IF YOU WANT A LAUGH, But seriously – the mementos of your wedding day will consist largely of the GO TO YOUTUBE AND images taken in still photos and video SEARCH FOR ‘WEDDING and having great portraits and movies of yourself and your day, possibly looking the PHOTOGRAPHER best you will look in your life, and shouldn’t FAIL’. IT’S A CLASSIC, be left to chance.

BUT ALSO A LITTLE The dawn of digital technology has meant SATIRICAL DIG that the gotta-have-it-now mentality is perfectly catered to and you can be married AT WEDDING and the internet world can know about it PHOTOGRAPHERS. 15 minutes later. It raises one of the biggest NOW BEFORE I GET questions when wedding planning. Do I need a wedding photographer? The short A BUNCH OF RABID answer is no. The long answer: yes!

SNAPPERS CHASING You can have your good mate Melanie AFTER ME WITH THEIR come along and take a few shots for you BIG LENSES, I HAVE or bring her handicam. All of your friends probably have point and shoot digi cameras TAKEN A WEDDING can take video on their camera phones, PHOTO OR TWO IN MY and and in amongst that there are probably TIME AND I CAN SEE a couple who have good SLR cameras or THE FUNNY SIDE AND a decent video camera. Statistically, you HAVE A GOOD LAUGH are bound to get some good shots. If you are on a tight budget, and most wedding AT MYSELF AS WELL. photographers’ price ranges start P88 PHOTOGRAPHERS

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PHOTOGRAPHERS P87 from at least a thousand dollars, then getting your mates to takes tonnes of images in the hope that a few good ones will turn out is an option.

beautiful on me,’ and ‘Oh crap. I wish I had stood up straight. You can see my pot belly and my saggy shoulders. Oh why did I buy that dress in the first place – it looks rubbish!’

To put the need for professionals in simple terms: good photos are like good meals.

You might like to eat a take-away dinner when you are in a rush. You probably cook for yourself regularly. You might occasionally go to a fancy schmancy restaurant. Your wedding is more than a rushed or even an occasional event; it’s a one-off. If you had the choice, would you like the food for your special day to come from a burger joint, your kitchen bench or from a cordon bleu caterer?

WHO TO CHOOSE

Another thing to remember is that a professional knows how to make you look good and their simple and gentle reminders at pertinent moments during your shoot can mean the difference between ‘Oh that dress really did look

look at the work of photographers and videographers. They all have websites. Have a look at what they have to offer. Have a look at photos of couples that might resemble you and see if you like the results.

Check to see prices and ranges.

P90

Choosing your photographer or videographer is very important and if you need to meet or talk to a few before you decide then don’t hesitate to hesitate. The person you choose is going to spend a huge proportion of your day with you and will be a stranger in your personal space, so the more comfortable you feel with the artist the better. You need to feel that they will be discreet enough to fade into the background and not become the centre Hiring a professional can seem like a huge of attention themselves, while at the same expense but when you remember that for time know that they can be well organised each hour your photographer spends taking and a bit bossy if you or your friends and pictures, they can spend up to five or more relatives need a little push to get your act together. Try getting your family to sit hours processing them, the cost doesn’t seem so outlandish. They also have the skills still for a photo – it’s tough. Professional photographers always manage to get well needed to touch up your portrait shots set out and balanced shots because they to perfection and simply ‘disappear’ that know how to do it. spot that erupted on the morning of the ceremony.

Surfing the net is a great way to have a

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W: www.jordanphotography.com.au E: info@jordanphotography.com.au P: 0409 710 433

PHOTOGRAPHERS

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PHOTOGRAPHERS P88 Do you want a package that includes canvasses and prints with albums and scrap-booking or do you want to hand pick single shots? Do you want to simply pay an hourly rate and have a disc delivered including all shots, and do you really want that pimple gone?

a photographer’s nightmare. It can be done, but preparations on the image maker’s part need to be made.

THE MOCK CUT

Most standard wedding shoots begin in the bride’s preparation area and continue through until what they call the Mock WHERE TO BEGIN Cake Cutting. Basically when the bride and Once you have decided who you want, then groom arrive at the reception, they and the artists will make a beeline for the cake you need to think about what you want. and capture posed shots of the cake being Do you want to be snapped from when cut. That is generally the end of the shoot. you slide out of bed until you slide back in Paying a photographer to stay beyond this 20 hours later or is the ceremony all you require? Do you need two cameras working time is probably not necessary and by this time everyone just wants to eat and drink at different locations during pre-wedding anyway – this is where the day becomes preparations or can the imaging start from the moment you step out of the car? These more relaxed and less time constrained and really, the time when all your friends are things you need to think about. with their snappy cameras come into their You need to be clear about what you want. own. Better still, buy a swag of disposable It will help the photographer to meet or cameras and leave them on the tables for at least speak to you before the day and people to capture your reception for you. see a photo of both bride and groom. I turned up to a wedding one day and the THE BIG MISTAKE white blonde bride in her white on whitey- The most common thing I hear from brides white dress was impossible to shoot in to be is ‘Oh it’s just casual. We don’t need all the dappled full midday summer sun those stiff formal photos. We won’t have any under the trees. The shoot was made more posed shots, just candid snaps.’ Then what complicated by her stunningly beautiful happens ? They see their friends and family groom whose blue-black skin glowed in that they haven’t encountered for years – all his gunmetal grey suit. Possible one of the of a sudden there is everyone dressed up, most beautiful couples I had even seen, but looking happy and in some cases P92

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beauty... passion... your wedding day...

www.lisaford.com.au PHOTOGRAPHERS

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PHOTOGRAPHERS P90 bathed with their hair washed and brushed and all of a sudden the urge to get everyone on film becomes irrational. ‘Oh please. Get me and Margie. Oh hang on. get me and Margie and Frank because he is moving to Texas next year. Wait. Debbie!

Quick, come and be in this shot with me and Margie and Frank’, but Debbie is flirting

with her cousin Max who she hasn’t seen since he developed abs, and the process takes forever and the clock is ticking.

I can almost guarantee you will want family shots done, so pre-warn everyone to be available for photos and not to spend too much time at the bar before the photos are finished. 

A FEW HINTS FOR BETTER SHOTS AND MOVIES: • Who are the photos for? Are they for a fashion magazine? Probably not? I can tell you now, you will not get Vogue’s airbrushed tight butt and perfect skin so relax and enjoy having the day’s memories recorded.

• For goodness sakes, stand up straight. Even if you are sitting or kneeling, you can still keep a straight spine with shoulders pulled back then relaxed.

Anyone can do it, even super models.

• Have a look in the mirror and not just at your face. Make sure that your outfit is all in place before you begin.

• Smile – this is a happy day; celebrate laugh and enjoy. No-one wants to see you looking like Wood’s American Gothic.

• Remember that who your friends and family are on the day is who they are on the day. Don’t try and hide everyone’s bad bits for the record. If Uncle Oscar won’t tuck in his shirt, then that is something he will be remembered for and that is not necessarily a bad thing. If someone has a broken leg or a tooth missing or is 13 months pregnant, then that is part of the historical atmosphere on the day and will be the cause of much fun and story telling in years and generations to come.

• Make a shot list. Yes you DO want family photos. Trust me. Warn those in the formal shots to be on hand and not wander off too far, and listen to your professional’s suggestions on family combinations.

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PHOTOGRAPHERS

You will find that Christina is relaxed and personable with a genuine passion for capturing the magical elements in any situation. Her excellent communication and perceptive nature enable her to explore the intricacies of her subjects, capturing the subtleties of every moment with emotion and candour. Your special day is a beautiful occasion and Christina is dedicated to making photographing it as fun and meaningful as the memories themselves.

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W E D D I N G E N T E R TA I N M E N T

A Very Entertaining Wedding I’LL NEVER FORGET MY Of course it didn’t last; it was only a few days later I found him in a compromising FIRST WEDDING. I WORE position with the family chihuahua and we A LACE TABLECLOTH went our separate ways: me with a new distrust of small dogs and poor old Ted AND CLUTCHED with a giant hole gnawed in his groin. But A BOUQUET OF nothing could take away from the magic of WILDFLOWERS. THE that special day.

BRIDESMAID WAS A PIG. My brother was the wedding singer who I’m not being mean. She really was. In the tradition of choosing your closest and less attractive friends as the foil for your diamond, at just five years old I’d selected Petunia, a dumpy but much loved stuffed pig to give me the emotional support when I walked down the aisle with Big Ted. 98 AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE

crooned ‘Here comes the Bride, fair fat and wide…’ (how right he turned out to be). The guests danced to my Mum’s Sergio Mendez and Brazil 66 album and we ate cupcakes and drank lemonade. Even my poor diabetic Humpty. We all agreed it was the best wedding ever.

The wedding is every girl’s ultimate dream party. It all starts with the frock and radiates out.

There’s a fine line between schmaltz and waltz, and it’s up to the betrothed to come up with a few ideas to make their wedding day unique – a true reflection of themselves.

Forget the whole butterfly release thing. It’s so Celine Dion. It’s cornball. Sure, if you are an older virgin maybe it’s appropriate for the bride to lift her skirts for a moth release, but basically I don’t think the symbolism of a fragile insect that only lives for three days is the best metaphor for a long and happy marriage. You need a creature that’s resilient, that’s able to survive adversity, because that’s what marriage is all about.

May I suggest a cockroach release? It’s original and it’s affordable. There are A V E R Y E N T E R TA I N I N G W E D D I N G

those that go for the dove release. I agree that it’s emotionally stirring. At a funeral.

When the hearse drives off with P100 AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE 99

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the body of the deceased loved P99 one, and the pigeons fly into eternity as a kind of feathery spirit guide. It’s actually very beautiful. It’s a metaphor for letting go. At a wedding the dove release just looks like some bloke has lost control of his pigeons. A marriage is about unity, about becoming part of the community, about being engaged with family and children. So animals should be landing on you. May I suggest that weddings be timed with funerals. As the hearse drives

off and the doves are released they should be scheduled to land on Mary and John at confetti time. Kind of like Tippi Hedron in The Birds but with doves instead of crows.

Then there’s the music. Don’t pick ‘Wind Beneath My Wings’. It’s corny. And in all honesty you have just chosen a life partner that you will be criticsing until it’s time for their dove release. I’m a fan of contemporary music at weddings. I like music that reflects the terrain of real relationships. What about Pat Benatar: ‘Love is a Battlefield’, or Avril Lavigne: ‘So Much for My Happy Ending’, or if you want something a bit raunchy who could go past the Nine Inch Nails ‘I want to F*** you like an Animal’.

You want to keep people entertained.

Because let’s face it, unless you’re the bride, weddings are boring as batshit. You spend the whole night seated next to some fat disgusting uncle twice removed on your father’s side who tried to expose himself to you at a family Christmas party when

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you were 15. Cameras on the tables are a bad idea, unless you actually want a photo album full of photos of pissed people’s genitalia.

of chardy there’s nothing more fun than limbo. If you get your maiden aunt with the osteoporosis up for a crack, you’ll be seeing the benefits of her will in no time at all.

Karaoke, nude dance-offs, jelly wrestling: it’s It’s important to engage people early. all up for grabs. Anything that encourages Maybe a form of wedding bingo for the guests to lose their dignity should be oldies, and instead of the bridal waltz, encouraged. After all, the booze is free. maybe the bride should consider a few We’re all Australians, and it’s only a matter of pole dancing lessons. You’ll be the Queen time before we ditch the $400 shoes, tear of the Wedding Circuit if you rip off that the hem on our Colette Dinnigan cocktail big fluffy white meringue to reveal a white frock and spend the next eight hours lacy corset, with thigh high boots and polishing the toilet bowl.  nipple rings. Leave the veil on: it’s fetishistic.

If you’ve booked a wedding centre you Mandy Nolan is an artist, writer, journalist should have ample fake Roman columns and the entertainment editor for the to choose from; if you’ve gone for an RSL Byron Shire Echo. Visit her website: you might need to be more careful as the www.mandynolan.com.au. columns tend to have square edges and you could accidentally remove your clitoris performing the Fireman. You’re going to need that essential item for the wedding night. So keep it under wraps.

I’m all for party games. After a few crates

A V E R Y E N T E R TA I N I N G W E D D I N G

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Your wedding video needs a woman’s touch A wedding is one of the most special events in a person’s life. You can be sure that our experienced staff will film the event without interrupting the wedding experience for anybody. Most couples we have filmed mention afterwards that they did not even notice we were there. The Lewis Media team has over 14 years of experience and use the latest video and audio equipment.

We edit your wedding in a natural and modern style and we have a range of packages to suit all budgets. DVD’s authored with chapters, personalized titles and packaging, highlight versions to email to friends & family and still photos from your video are all available. Call to discuss your wedding video requirements or see our website for more information.

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W E D D I N G E N T E R TA I N M E N T

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INTERVIEW

DANNI CARR REMEMBERS THE DAY SHE MET HER FUTURE HUSBAND. ‘I WALKED IN TO THE ST ANDREW’S HOTEL WITH MY MUM AND SOME FRIENDS, ASH WAS PLAYING SOLO. MUM TOOK ONE LOOK AT HIM AND SAID, “YOU’RE GOING TO MARRY HIM.” 104 AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE

Life is Sunny for Danni & Ash

I

n 2001 Danni Carr and Ash Grunwald were both busy musos plying their trade. They did meet and have a chat on that first night, but it wasn’t until they met again six months later at the Dan O’Connell Hotel in Carlton that passion flared. Danni was playing Wednesdays and I was playing Tuesdays,’ says Ash. Danni says she got a second look at Ash and thought to herself, ‘There’s that guy again and he IS a spunk.’

Danni brought a few of her girl friends back the next week to check him out.

The couple’s next few years were all about work and music. ‘It was fun,’ says Danni.

‘We were both playing a lot of the time and we did a residency in the snowfields at Mount Buller.’ They also did a double bill tour up the east coast, Ash played solo and Danni was with her band the Sweet Painted Ladies.

‘We talked all through my set break’, says Ash. ‘I didn’t even get to the toilet or get a drink. We just talked through the whole break.’

The couples greatest joy arrived in 2008 when they welcomed baby Sunny into the world. ‘I had heard stories that it created more pressure in your life when you had a baby, but I haven’t experienced that at all,’ says Ash. ‘It has brought us together. Closer.

We are so in love with Sunny and you are working together to bring up this being.’

Danni and Ash say that their first official date was a few weeks later at a Xavier Rudd gig and they have been together ever since.

‘Once we started hanging out I just stayed’, says Ash. ‘He just never went home,’ says Danni.

‘It has made me love him even more seeing what a great father he is,’ says Danni. ‘It goes both ways,’ says Ash. ‘I appreciate Danni for being such a great mother and that’s just the luck of the draw. You could really love someone and then you have a P106

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INTERVIEW P105 baby and it turns out that they are just not a good parent. We love the parent that the other is, we were just really, really lucky to end up with each other.’

week following the wedding.

Until late last year, Danni and Ash had lived in Jan Juc on the Victorian surf coast, but after years of holidaying and touring up here at the Blues and Roots Festival and It was while Ash was on tour in Canada last year that he popped the question. ‘I other local venues, the couple decided to was laughing and I asked her to come over make the big move and bought a property to the window,’ says Ash. ‘He asked me to in the north of the Byron Shire. Ash says he come over near the window of the hotel we loves the area for its organic food, vibe and were staying in.’ says Danni. ‘Then he asked waves. me – I thought he was joking because he Danni and Ash chose to get married at was laughing. Then he pulled out the ring and I knew he was serious. I said Yes straight An Island Hideaway, which is located on South Stradbroke Island, as they have an away.’ association with the island through Ash’s They had little time to celebrate their band. engagement as they were due to board Danni’s dress was purchased last year in a ferry to Victoria Island, so they bought a Melbourne, as were her shoes and the bottle of Moet on the way to the port and wedding jewellery, but since moving toasted their impending union out of paper here they have decided to use locals for cups while crossing the ocean.

Danni’s hair and make-up, the wedding The pair who between them have released entertainment and photography. eleven albums, spend a lot of time these Danni will start her wedding day on the days touring the country and the world, while bringing up Sunny who is almost two. Gold Coast and arrive at the island by yacht.

Ash will stay the night before the ceremony Ash has recently completed a European on the island to get an early start. ‘I’ll wake tour and came home to the news that he up on the island and I’ll start the day with had won the 2010 APRA award for Blues and Roots Album for Hot Mamma Vibes. He a surf,’ he says. ‘South Straddie has one of has been nominated for the Best Blues and the best barrells on the coast. It’s one of my favourite waves. I’ll have a surf, then I get to Roots Album ARIA for five of the last five years. The 2010 awards will take place the marry Danni. A double bonus!’ 

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Byron Bay

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COUPLES

Hopelessly devoted to you IF EVER THERE WAS A MAN ON THIS PLANET WHO LOVED A WOMAN, IT IS CHRIS SCRAGGS. THE WOMAN SO LOVED AND ADORED BY CHRIS IS STEPHANIE LAWSON, WHO ONLY HAS EYES FOR THE ONE WHO, AS IT PANNED OUT, ASKED HER TO GET MARRIED TWICE – SHE SAID YES BOTH TIMES. The sweet story of how Chris and Stephanie became engaged is destined to become family folklore and will certainly be told around hearth and home for many generations to come, as this is a love that will become legendary.

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Chris and Stephanie met when they worked together on the Gold Coast Council as coastal engineers. ‘Steph was the new girl in town,’ says Chris, who took three months to pluck up the nerve to ask her out. The pair have since become inseparable and when Steph decided to leave Queensland to work in Oman, it was a simple choice for Chris to accompany her – and this is where the legend begins.

As do any couple, Chris and Stephanie had a momentary lapse of connection and, after heated discussion, Chris left to spend a few hours alone and collect his thoughts. Driving through the parched desert of Oman, the last thing on Chris’s mind was the the possibility that a camel would appear out of nowhere; the crash that followed shook him into a new understanding of what his life was all about.

Chris immediately headed home to the woman who meant so much and asked her on the spot to spend the rest of her life with him. Without a second thought Stephanie said Yes, but said that a post-camel collision was probably not the most romantic situation for a proposal.

top we were, surprisingly, the only ones there and we just stood and looked at this incredible oasis.’ Chris said that this was perfect for his proposal, but the chance for bended knee passed when Steph sat on the ground to enjoy the view. ‘I had planned to

propose at the top of the wadi,’ says Chris.

‘She was already sitting when I decided to ask, so I lay down on the ground next to her and proposed and she said Yes.’

Stephanie says that the romance of the location, and the question asked, more than outweighed anything that had gone before and the couple made their last minute preparations to come home; the most difficult task – organising a wedding from Chris and Stephanie decided to come home another country. in spring to celebrate their union and, three weeks before they left Oman, went for a trek The pair knew that most of the planning would have to be done from across the into Wadi Shab, a stunningly picturesque valley located outside the country’s capital ocean so they enlisted the help of Deon Muscat. ‘It was really hot,’ says Stephanie. ‘It Demouche from Atmosphere Byron Bay was about 38 degrees and we were forging Events to oganise all the things they weren’t our way into the wadi. When we got to the able to from Oman.

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COUPLES P109 I met the couple for our first photo shoot the day before their wedding on Saturday September 25 and the love they have for each other seeps from their skin and is exhaled with every breath.

After the ceremony guests were invited to enjoy the sun and the sand and celebrate with champagne. The gathering then moved to the Byron Bay Surf Club, on Main Beach, which was dressed lavishly with silk wall hangings, plush furnishings and chaises and lit by candelabra, and the deck lit with Chinese lanterns. The newlyweds’ guests were treated to a sumptuous sit down dinner and the couple retired to accommodation across the road on Main Beach after the reception.

Chris and Stephanie plan to settle eventually on the Gold Coast or in Sydney to be near family, but for the time being they are heading back to Oman. The The next day Steph and Chris had a newlyweds took the chance to relax when wonderfully romantic wedding on the they combined the trip back to Oman with beach at Suffolk Park, Byron Bay. Stephanie’s a honeymoon stopover in South Africa, father Neil walked arm in arm with his before starting their married life together. beautiful daughter across the dunes, ‘Getting married shows our commitment following four bridesmaids – three of whom to each other,’ says Chris. ‘This will be a lifeare Steph’s sisters – the quartet a vision in long partnership,’ says Stephanie. ‘The depth beautiful blue. of love we have is mutual and we wanted to get married before we had kids and we Steph and Chris had a beautiful, soft and were ready to take the next step.’  romantic wedding that featured a Persian honey ceremony, which is all about Dress Karen Willis Holmes sweetness. The ancient Persian custom begins when the wedding table is adorned Hair Get Steffed with, among other things, a cup of honey to Coordinator Atmosphere Byron Bay Events Celebrant Shiney Le Fai sweeten life. Immediately after the couple are married, they each dip one pinky finger Catering EatDrink Catering Event Photographer Donnatella Parisini into the cup of honey and feed it to the other. The sentiment behind the idea is that Flowers Bangalow Rose the first kiss should be sweet.

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COUPLES

Oooh-oooh, the Boss’s Daughter WHEN BRIAN GRACE WAS EMPLOYED BY PAUL RICKETTS AS AN APPRENTICE BUILDER, HE THOUGHT THAT ALL OF HIS DREAMS HAD COME TRUE AND IT HAD NOTHING TO DO WITH HIS NEW JOB. BRIAN IS ONE OF THOSE DAREDEVIL FELLOWS WHO FALLS FOR THE BOSS’S DAUGHTER AND IT WOULD SEEM THAT SHE FELL IN LOVE WITH HIM.

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A

deley Ricketts must have known there was something special about Brian because she still went out with him even though he was three hours late for their first date. ‘I was trying to clean the car and get it looking really good for our date,’ says Brian.

‘I just lost track of time.’ Adeley remembers the occasion with laughter, ‘My lunch turned into afternoon tea’.

generation since. The most important aspect of the wedding in Adeley’s eyes was that all her and Brian’s family would be at the wedding.

The only other priority was that she would have It took their ‘baby’ ,boxer Mia, to move beautiful things along in their relationship. Brian and photos Adeley both agree that life was too good taken. She at home for Adeley with parents Paul and solved both Margot and she had no need to move out problems until Brian took on her parents’ words, that easily by if Adeley got a dog, then she would have to making move out – so Brian bought Mia. sure that Mia also played another special role in the the families couple’s relationship. They were preparing could join the couple on the day and she to move into the first home the bought hired Caroline from Mihaja Photography. together, when Mia appeared at Adeley’s The other details Adeley economised on as feet with a ribbon wrapped box attached to minor issues that were dealt with practically her collar. The rest is of course history and – Brian had scored himself a canny lass and Brian and Adeley planned their marriage for she created the most amazing wedding at a Saturday October 9. surprisingly low cost.

Both Adeley and Brian are very family Adeley got her dress online – made to exact oriented and those connections are measurements and including postage her extremely important to them. It was Brian’s dress cost just $150 from China and it really grandfather who urged him to make Adeley looked stunning. The couple made use of his wife, and Adeley carried with her to vehicles from friends and family and very the altar a family heirloom – a sovereign effective was the vision of Adeley arriving at that had been worn by her great, great the church in a silver Mercedes.

P114 grandmother at her wedding and by every

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COUPLES P113 Saturday morning arrived and the wet spell that has plagued the north coast for the last months was dropping a lot of rain, but they say it’s lucky for a bride to have rain on her wedding day.

Adeley got ready for her marriage at her parents’ house and dad Paul spent the morning with the video camera in his hand. Hair and makeup was done and sister Shannyn put some elbow grease into a mark on the gown from the bride’s shoe.

choice to get married in the local church which, as it turns out, is affiliated with the primary school that Adeley went to as child.

Ever practical, Adeley had every minute of her day mapped out and she was enjoying herself. On time, she and dad Paul stood in the entrance of St Anthony’s in Kingscliff and the music began.

The ceremony was short but sweet and the kiss was long and passionate, and the bride and groom walked down the aisle to the traditional Wedding March.

The much sought after photos had to be shot in a variety of locations. The skies continued to open, but they eventually had wonderful pictures taken to remember their day.

Brian and Adeley had a cocktail reception with about 85 guests in an upstairs function room at the Cabarita Beach Resort with a DJ and a 100 cupcake wedding cake.

Adeley glowed throughout her entire day and, as that rainy luck would have it, she got her wishes of beautiful photos and a wonderful family gathering to celebrate – and of course she got her man, the fellow who married the boss’s daughter. 

Celebrant Rev Fr James Griffin Adeley and Brian had both been brought Event Photographer up a Catholics so for them it was an obvious Caroline, Mihaja Photography.

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C AT E R I N G

Wedding food WHAT TO SERVE AT YOUR WEDDING DEPENDS ON A HOST OF FACTORS. THE BUDGET WILL DETERMINE WHETHER YOU BE LAVISH OR LEAN – BUT REGARDLESS OF THAT, IT IS YOUR PARTICULAR STYLE WHICH WILL DICTATE THE CHOICE OF MENU. Photo courtesy of Kate Belle Photography

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BY VICTORIA COSFORD

S

tand-up and casual suggests finger food, canapes, platters of easy-toeat snacks with minimal fuss – whereas sit-down and formal will call for greater complexity, not to mention expense.

Then there is the time of day, whether the wedding is a lunch or an evening event, as well as the season. A tighter budget lends itself to afternoon tea, or cocktails, or simply a dessert reception.

elegant as well as inexpensive. If the reception takes place in the morning, consider a breakfast or brunch buffet, enabling a wide selection of pastries and cheeses, fresh fruits and pancakes, omelettes and smoked salmon. Around midday you can serve time-honoured and ever-popular sandwiches as well as salads and pastas and fruit. A sit-down evening meal will be the most expensive choice; dessert or tea receptions less so while If canapes are the choice, a popular trend still allowing for elegance and a touch of these days are stations, specific areas where glamour. guests may head for a nibble when they Ultimately, the sort of food you have must feel like it – this option may preclude the be the food you yourself like! Remember need for, or at least reduce the number of too that your guests are coming to staff to employ. Dietary quirks should be celebrate you and share your special day, taken into account as well in order that not to review a restaurant.  all your guests’ needs are considered, so vegetarian and gluten-free choices should Victoria Cosford is an author, food writer be available. and journalist for the Byron Shire Echo.

You could opt for a barbecue or a banquet in a marquee. A tea reception may be

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C AT E R I N G

A stunning Wedding Venue Harvest has created and designed wedding & special event menus to suit all occassions. Our team of staff will assist you from beginning to end to ensure you achieve your ultimate Wedding experience.

Boasting an impressive wine list and offering wine packages to suit all budgets, your menu and wines can be matched perfectly.

Whether it is a fine dining event, cocktail style sofistication or just a casual affair for friends and family, our menus will be designed with you in mind. Our in house co-ordinator will assist you with all your details to make the journey one of ease.

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C AT E R I N G

Let them eat Cake

WHAT IS IT ABOUT CUTTING THE WEDDING CAKE THAT FEELS SO IMPORTANT AND NEEDS TO BE RECORDED FOR POSTERITY? The answer is simple. It is symbolic. When the bride and groom both handle the knife and cut the cake, they are performing the first task together as a married couple. In many cultures the couple will then feed each other a piece of the cake to show that they will be there to provide for each other in their married life together. There is also behind this seemingly childish act the idea that the first food you eat from each other’s hands is sweet in the hope that the promises spoken during your ceremony will leave your mouth with sweetness.

There are too many traditions attached to the wedding cake to number. Suffice to say, in modern Australian culture wedding cakes tended to be one or more layers P124

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professionallydecoratedcakes Delivery to Gold Coast and Tweed Coast and Valley Whether your style is contemporary, traditional, colourful or individual, together we will create, with your desire and my experience, a centrepiece for your special occasion. With over 25 years as a professional cake decorator and tutor, your cake selection experience with Dianne will be relaxing and stress-free.

Dianne will help you to design your cake with open discussion and complete willingness to cater for your every wish. In partnership you will discuss with Dianne cake styles, presentation, serving options, colours, flavours and budgets. All cakes are made from the finest quality ingredients and cater for all dietary needs.

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P122 of fruit cake, whose top tier was kept intact and stored for either the first wedding anniversary or the birth of the first child – which quite often happened in close proximity – or as a cake served at the christening party of the firstborn, but in recent times, many types of cake from fruit, to mud, to the increasingly popular French croquenbouche and even tiered cupcakes are the flavour (excuse the pun) of the month.

If you are wanting a lavish cake, be sure that you order early in your list of things to do, as many large fruit type cakes take a long time to make and decorate. Decide if the wedding cake will be all or part of the dessert at the reception. You may decide to have a small fruit cake to cut and another cake for sweets or you may have a combination cake, with a tier of fruit, a tier of mud and a tier of marble cake.

Oh come on – everyone loves marble cake!

If you are having a cocktail party or standup reception, the recent trend for cup

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cake tiers is very popular mainly because of its simplicity and its practicality. There is no cutting or plating, though the couple standing either side of the tier and delivering the precious paper encased treat into the hands of queued guests is a lovely idea in itself. The bride and groom have the chance for a quick word with each guest to show their gratitude in a very personal way to those who have gathered to share their special day.

Something that I really love is that little bride and groom decoration. I don’t know what it is, but that little couple standing arm in arm atop all that icing and frou frou just makes me think that the world would be a happier place if we all just put our differences aside and sloshed around in frosting. I think no matter how formal the occasion, it should be made law that everyone has those cute little statuettes on top of their wedding cake tiers.

The best advice I can give for choosing the type of cake or decorations to have at your wedding is to go with what your gut says – literally. Get something yummy that you and your partner would like to eat, and sit back and relax. The cutting of the cake is usually the last official part of the day, so enjoy! 

L E T T H E M E AT C A K E

G

reg first started making cakes over 40 years ago and has built a strong reputation for having very high standards as well as an artistic flair that has to be seen to be believed. Greg still loves creating cakes just as much as he did when he first started all those years ago.

To many brides around Australia he is known as “MR CAKE MAN”.

Greg Smith 5 Perry Place Cumbalum NSW 2478 02 6686 0857 www.gregscakes.com.au WEDDING CAKES

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C AT E R I N G

Wine

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not, these historical origins were seated in ECCLESIASTES 8:15 SAYS, the rather less romantic theatre of war than ‘SO I COMMEND THE that of the sealing love’s promise.

ENJOYMENT OF LIFE, One suggestion for the touching of glasses BECAUSE NOTHING was that the spillage ensured that if IS BETTER FOR A MAN someone had poisoned the drinks then the UNDER THE SUN THAN poison would be shared and anyone not TO EAT AND DRINK AND partaking would be seen as the culprit. The BE GLAD.’ SO, IF IT’S IN THE custom of looking into the other’s eyes is another reference to the spiking of drinks BIBLE, IT’S THE LAW. RIGHT? – too hard to accurately slip a mickey into Well someone got it right because one of the pleasures in life is to eat, drink and be merry and the chances that the merry part comes from a nice glass of wine is a surety.

A wedding would seem odd without a toast to the bride and groom, the clinking of glasses and the accompanying salutations – a serious and silly part of most wedding formalities.

There are many thoughts on the origins of the toast and the clinking; more often than WINE

the enemy’s cup if all eyes were engaged in each other.

But history aside, many couples take great care in choosing the liquid refreshments for their reception and celebrations and often reserve a special bottle for the bridal party, the toasts or the honeymoon. As with the top layer of cake, some couples make sure to keep a good bottle of wine aside for the first anniversary or for ‘wetting’ the first baby’s head.

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P127 Even if there are several toasts at the reception, most people will take only sip and even overly long appreciation of everyone in the room by a slightly tipsy best man will see most people only drink one glass, so make it a good one. Even though traditionally sparkling white is the wine of choice, offering a flat white or a nice red will be appreciated by many of your guests and whatever you do, make sure you have someone sensible make some of the toasts.

Remember to mention how beautiful the bridesmaids look, comment on the loveliness of both mothers of the couple and slipping in that everyone knows where the bride gets her good looks will earn many brownie points.

These days we are lucky to have more access to good wine and the best recommendation I can give is to research, research and then research some more – there’s no harm in being merry in the choosing. 

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WINE

Thumm Estate Wines The perfect accompaniment to a perfect day

Thumm Estate Winery 87 Kriedeman Rd, Upper Coomera 4209 Queensland Australia 07 5573 6990 info@thummestatewinery.com www.thummestatewinery.com WINE

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F I T N E S S & H E A LT H

Wedding Waistline Rachel Jeffery

YOU’VE BEEN PLANNING FOR WEEKS AND MONTHS, FINALLY THE BIG EVENT IS ALMOST HERE.

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ith only a few days to go, what is the wholegrain breads, cereals and potatoes best diet to follow to ensure you can (not crisps!). keep up your stamina for your wedding day Easy foods to eat on the run to give you but avoid the dreaded bloating feeling? sustained energy when you cannot eat a The most important thing you can do full meal are: bananas, apples, wholegrain is keep up your fluid levels. No, not crackers and cheese, low fat yoghurts, low champagne. Water. The second most fat fruit milk smoothies and wholegrain important thing is keeping up a good bread with low fat spreads (jam, vegemite, energy supply to keep you going and honey). going.

Avoid sugary foods such as lollies, Aim to drink two litres (eight cups) of fluid chocolate bars, cakes and sweet biscuits. a day. You will be running around a lot These foods may give you a quick high, but and it is easy to forget to keep up your it will not last and could drag you down an hydration levels. Becoming dehydrated can hour or so later. lead to fatigue, reduced concentration and When the big day arrives, you’ll most likely sluggishness. be up early. Make sure you have enough Eat regular meals and snacks. Do not skip time to have something to eat. Plan to meals as you will only be hungry afterwards get up 15 minutes earlier than you need and lack energy later in the day. You will to and sit down to a good low fat, low be busy running around sorting flowers, GI, moderate protein breakfast. A good dresses, jewellery, cars etc, so you need breakfast would be: wholegrain cereal with regular energy boosts to keep you going. low fat milk, fruit and wholegrain toast. If you do not think you could manage a solid Have carbohydrate foods throughout breakfast then try a low fat fruit smoothie the day to give your muscles a regular with low fat milk, berries, banana and a little energy lift. The best carbohydrate foods bit of honey, or canned fruit and low fat are wholegrain breads and breakfast yoghurt. cereals, fruit, pasta, potatoes and rice.

Enjoy carbohydrate foods that have a low Remember to start the day with a few Glycaemia Index (GI). Low GI foods raise glasses of fluid. Good choices would be blood sugars slowly, so provide the body water, diluted juice or tea. Keep a one litre with continuous energy for longer periods. water bottle with you, so you can sip on it Low GI foods include fruits, milk, yoghurt, as you go through the day.

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F I T N E S S & H E A LT H P131 Around mid morning keep up your energy levels with a quick snack including a small low fat yoghurt, a piece of fruit or some fruit toast.

then enjoy a glass of sparkles with family and friends, but keep it to one glass. No one likes to see a bride stumbling down the aisle.

By lunchtime friends and family have Have the bridal party pack up some healthy started to arrive. They can be useful by snacks, water and a small amount of preparing some wholegrain sandwiches, champers that you all can have after the wraps, rolls, ceremony and while with lean meats, you have photos taken.

A fresh fruit platter would be fresh salad and perfect to nibble on through During the reception some cheese. keep up the water in Yes, you must the afternoon. It will give between champagnes, eat something. you an energy fix to keep you as alcohol will Again if you can going down the isle. dehydrate you very not manage a quickly and the whole solid meal, try event could turn fuzzy low fat cheese very quickly. Now have with dry crackers, something to eat. You toast with low fat have spent hours and a lot of money on spreads or salad sticks with low fat dips. the reception meal, so you should enjoy A fresh fruit platter would be perfect to nibble on through the afternoon. It will give it. Have a good meal, plenty of fluids and you an energy fix to keep you going down this should keep you bright and bubbly all throughout the evening. the aisle.

Don’t worry about weight gain on the day.

You will have been running around so much there is no way an ounce of fat will have had time to settle on your hips.

Enjoy your day, but do not overindulge in the champers. Keep up the water and snack regularly for sustained energy to keep you going from morning to night. 

Have you drunk all that water bottle yet? If Rachel Jeffery is an Accredited Practising not, get to it. If you have kept up your fluids Dietitian.

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W E D D I N G WA I S T L I N E

BUFF Brides

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HENS’ WEEKEND

GONE ARE THE DAYS OF A GROOM TURNING UP BLEARY EYED AFTER A NIGHT OF BAWDY FUN AND ALCOHOL WHILE THE BRIDE SAT AT HOME WITH HER GROUP OF FRIENDS AND ATE CUP-CAKES, CUCUMBER SANDWICHES AND SIPPED TEA. 134 AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE

Hens a-flutter F

ortunately for marriages and sanity, the pre-wedding wild oats sowing has moved to a sensible distance from the actual wedding day and the frivolity and fun has become equal for both grooms and brides.

Having the pressure of the last bash erased has left the door open to have a proper get away and brides these days are taking a night or two to celebrate properly, catch up with everyone in an atmosphere where you can have a really good gossip and let your hair down without the hassle or worry of having to find your way home. Voila! – the bachelorette party becomes the Hens’ Weekend.

Get the girls together and find a place that sleeps the whole bunch and party hardy. I recently went to a Hens’ Weekend in Byron Bay. Friends flew in from all over the country and it was a great reunion. The bride organised a holiday house for the weekend and everyone put about $250 in the kitty, HENS’ A-FLUT TER

out of which we got a great venue; we bought wine and cheese and nibblies and a huge bowl of fruit. We had our dinners out on the town, had fruit with coffee we bought from a local cafe for brekky, and we looked after ourselves for lunch in town at the many great eateries.

We had a ball. The bride to be had the opportunity to relax and catch up with mates she hadn’t seen for a long time. We didn’t have to worry about drinking and driving or organising lifts and taxis. We had tonnes of fun getting dressed up and heading out on the town together. In the end it felt like a huge teenage slumber party; the only difference was that the gossip was much juicier!

The whole experience was fantastic and I can highly recommend it to anyone. It gave everyone a chance to catch up which probably isn’t something that will happen at a wedding when there are so many formalities to follow.

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HENS’ WEEKEND P135 One of the big questions that of information about what would tickle will arise when organising any pre-wedding her fancy without hurting her feelings. A do is: stripper or no stripper. Personally I am sky dive maybe or a hot air balloon ride if not a huge fan of the strip so then I guess I she is adventurous, an afternoon of scuba wouldn’t want one and that really is the key diving or horse riding in the rainforest if she to the question. If the bride really wants one, is sporty or simply a bottle of expensive then for goodness champagne sakes don’t leave around the deck According to American her hanging with her ladies is etiquette expert Margaret in the lurch. all that is needed ‘Peggy’ Grayson Post, whatever Personally I would to make the be mortified if my entertainment is planned, weekend special. friends organised it should not embarrass, Whatever you one for me and humiliate, or endanger the decide, make sure they know that, honoree or any of the guests. you have planned so wouldn’t put it well in advance. me through it.

If you are going The adage ‘when out of your own in doubt, don’t’ area for a weekend is very apt in away, check out this situation. online what is available and find out what A great celebration could turn sour if the activities need to be booked ahead of time blushing bride really was blushing and and what you can just turn up to. Dinner felt uncomfortable about the experience. reservations are better made for at least According to American etiquette expert one night in case you hit a busy patch in a Margaret ‘Peggy’ Grayson Post, whatever tourist town. entertainment is planned, it should not embarrass, humiliate, or endanger the If nothing else, a weekend away from honouree or any of the guests. wedding organisation is going to be a If you are wanting to plan a surprise for blessed relief for the bride and all she will the bride, ask the person who would know really need is her best buds to have a great her the best what a good idea would be. time and a weekend to be remembered for The bride’s future husband will be a font a long time.  136 AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE

HENS A-FLUT TER

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Tracey on 0413 432 584 or Candice 0402749641 please register for more information HENS’ WEEKEND

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Haven Spa and Bathhouse is ideal for small and medium size groups. We have a relaxing, fun & rejuvenating hens’ packages that can be tailored specifically for you. Enjoy a lovely time together in the bathhouse, then go upstairs for treatments.

Our 6 treatment rooms all can be opened up to each other so that your group can stay in contact during the treatments if you wish.

5/131 Minjungbal Drive Tweed Heads South 07 5513 0855

www.havenspa.com.au 138 AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE

HENS’ WEEKEND

ph 6684 4811 www.thekivaspa.com ph 6684 4811 www.thekivaspa.com HENS’ WEEKEND

Byron’s premier garden Byron’ s premier spa, nestled in agarden bamboo spa, nestled a bamboo grove down ainquiet lane down a quiet in ingrove Mullumbimby.

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Its the the locals go. and Private spa parties summer magical in the available (upunwind, to 30 people). rain. Relax, immerse

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acka thinking the nex e three pamper p av h e w t, a It may be worth re th st ju aradiso can offer beauty theme? P chose from. on) 30mins per pers x ro p p (a ck a P r d polish Basic Pampe ure – file, buff an sion in the back/ n ic d te e r P la i u in sc M u r o m re ve ge to relie Mini Manicu heavenly massa A – e g a ss a M Mini Back er person shoulders. $85 p n) 5mins per perso 4 x ro p p (a ck a P r Paradiso Pampe back/ Buff and Polish lar tension in the , u ile sc F u – m re ve u lie ic n re a age to Mini M A heavenly mass – e g a ss a m ck a Mini B r person shoulders. d Polish $120 pe n a ff u B , ile F – Mini Pedicure erson) olish rox 75mins per p p p (a ck Moisturise and P a ff, P u r e B p e, m g a a P ss ry a M xu u L nd Arm rise.

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HENS’ WEEKEND

ASOHO a space of her own

wedding & bridal venue Asoho is a private and peaceful Hinterland Retreat 20 minutes from Byron Bay, 10 minutes from Bangalow and 2 minutes to the Federal Village.

This venue is a perfect haven for a beautiful Hinterland wedding.

Imagine your guests driving down the quiet country lane to this beautiful country estate.

There are three pavilions built with an Australian Country theme, connected and surrounded by expansive covered verandahs.

The interiors create a relaxing and peaceful experience with an Asian fusion of furnishings and décor.

The beautifully landscaped gardens that surround this stunning property will allow you to set the scene for your Byron Hinterland wedding ceremony or reception.

Whether your dream wedding is intimate or large, casual or formal, Asoho will provide a venue that will make sure your day will be one to remember.

Come and enjoy the stunning Asoho and allow this beautiful property to be transformed into your dream wedding venue for a truly unforgettable day!

02 6688 4202 www.asohoatfederal.com.au WEDDING VENUES

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WEDDING VENUES

Venues ONE OF THE FIRST THINGS YOU WILL DO WHEN YOU GET ENGAGED IS TO BOOK A VENUE FOR THE WEDDING. THE TYPE OF WEDDING YOU WILL HAVE IS GOING TO, OF COURSE, DICTATE A LOT OF YOUR VENUE OPTIONS.

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S

eparate, same or nearby locations for your ceremony and reception will have a huge effect on your plans for the day. If you are having a religious ceremony, then in most cases your reception will be at a different place. Some churches and other religious venues have a hall or similar building attached to them, so an option could be to hire event planners and have the wedding delivered to you.

If you are having a beach, bush or backyard wedding ceremony, you can hire marquees and have your reception on the spot, though some public parks require permission and some even charge a small fee. Going outlandish and having the reception at a jazz club or disco is another fun option with the entertainment provided and a bar where you can have a tab if it’s in your budget.

Some sport clubs will do for your event at quite a low cost and they have bar and kitchen staff who are used to catering to large groups of people; and again you can have a tab and some will even let you use their facilities – you can cater for the event yourself if the kitchen has the capacity to cook for your guests.

Another idea is to have both in the same place – a civil ceremony with the reception on a boat – and have the whole thing catered for. It might mean that your time frame is limited but that isn’t necessarily a bad thing.

A way to cut costs is to have the reception VENUES

at a club or restaurant and provide meals for your guests and let them purchase their own alcohol. Another way to go is to simply tell your guests not to bring prezzies and book out an eatery and let everyone pay for themselves. Don’t be shocked – people do it all the time and it’s a clever way to have a wedding when you already have all the household items you need but no money for a huge wedding reception.

What about returning to a tradition from the days of old and have everyone bring a plate?

You can hire crockery and cutlery and put on a huge BBQ with friends who bring salads, cheeses, tapas and even bread and desserts. Go the whole hog and have a picnic; just make sure you have an alternative venue ready in case of rain (and remember rainis lucky).

The only advice I would give in this instance is to provide enough seating for the elderly and others who may need it. Not everyone can lounge on a rug on the ground, and a table for the oldies will make everyone a lot more comfortable and relaxed. 

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Cudgen Leagues Wedding Venue Kingscliff

For an intimate affair or the most extravagant of occasions.

02 6674 1816 www.cudgenleagues.com.au 144 AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE

WEDDING VENUES

It will be our pleasure to help organise your special occassion here at the Lismore Turf Club’s Winning Post Function Centre. With onsite catering and a very helpful team of professionals to help you with your decisions, from the menu options to entertainment. We also have decorations for hire. The Lismore Turf Club is one of Lismore’s premier function centres, and boasts enough room for 200 seated guests.

Located just 2km from the CBD, but set in a semi-rural atmosphere with magnificent grounds and natural gardens, the Winning Post Function Centre has been a leading function centre in the Lismore area for more than a decade.

Let us help make your wedding reception a dream come true.

Ph: 02 6621 3176 www.lismoreturfclub.com WEDDING VENUES

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Byron Bay Golf Club was established in January 1975, and has recently had exciting changes and refurbishments made to it which enhance and catch its splendour. With the spectacular panoramic views and clean sea breezes it’s not hard to relax and enjoy this wonderful establishment.

When it comes to food, the professional catering team led by chef Brenda Wilson and husband Matthew & their team are renowned for innovation and flexibility, we offer everything from appetising finger food to gourmet three course dinners, and banquet menus.

The deck at Byron takes great pride in providing both a venue and service of the highest standard. We look forward to working with you, tailoring your reception to meet your specific needs, creating an unforgettable day for you and your guests.

PH: 02 6685 6470 www.thedeckatbyron.com 146 AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE

WEDDING VENUES

Weddings at

WEDDING VENUES

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A

wedding reception over two days completes a life time memory for the bride and groom, their family and friends.

Choose something different, arrive by helicopter or golf buggy, walk down the aisle to your wedding ceremony at the edge of the mountain with top of the world views.

You have the choice to have your reception festivities in our restaurant that offers stunning ocean views or you may prefer the celebration to be dressed up in a silk lined marquee.

Plan to spend the evening in one of the six Luxury Bungalows which offer privacy and seclusion. The Bungalows are hidden through the resort vineyards and orchards and also provide spectacular views of the golf course, orchards and valleys that lead to the ocean.

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WEDDING VENUES

Spend your special day on top of the world..

Congratulations on your engagement and thank you for considering Penny Ridge as a location for your special celebration.

Our stunning retreat really is a ‘slice of heaven’, and we would be honoured to share with you and your guests.

Penny Ridge has been designed with lifestyle and relaxation in mind. Our beautiful sanctuary is set on 100 pristine acres only 12 minutes drive to Coolangatta beaches and Gold Coast International Airpor t. It is situated 850 feet above sea level, boasting breathtaking 360 degree views to the Pacific Ocean from the sands of Stradbroke Island, to Hastings Point on the Tweed Coast.

Penny Ridge is home to an an array of native wildlife, happily nestled among vineyards and olive groves. There’s also a tempting selection of coffee, macadamia and citrus orchards throughout the resor t. The unique atmosphere is topped off with an extensive variety of facilities for your guests, inclusive of: • 100 seat restaurant with endless views across the panorama to the Pacific Ocean • Six luxurious bungalows, secluded amongst the vineyards and orchards • 18 hole golf course Penny Ridge is the perfect venue for your wedding and celebrations, where privacy and enjoyment are your paramount considerations. Our staff and surroundings and will ensure your special day is one to remember.

Please contact us to arrange an inspection of our stunning retreat.

Kind Regards Scott Whar ton 07 5590 9033 scott@pennyridge.com.au www.pennyridge.com.au

WEDDING VENUES

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Menus Each wedding is different, which is why we focus on working with the couple and their budget to customise a unique variety of catering options, ensuring that everyone’s tastes and dietary requirements are satisfied in every way. We can offer you and your guests a variety of delectable menus from simple canapes to a complete sit down silver service celebration in a silk lined Marquee.

SAMPLE MENU The following is an example of a recent wedding menu used for 100 guests at Penny Ridge.

UPON ARRIVAL Buckwheat Blinis with Smoked Salmon, Crème Fraiche and Avruga Caviar Duck Rillettes Tarts with Mustard Fruits and Baby Cress SERVED ON PLATTERS FOR THE TABLE Freshly Shucked Coffin Bay Oysters with Finger Lime Vinaigrette Gazpacho Soup Shots with Jamon

SAMPLES OF CANAPES

Taramasalata Tarts with Spanner Crab and Fine Herbs

Organic chicken, grilled artichokes, peas, mint, olives

Chicken, Pancetta and Thyme Arancini

Herb frittata, smoked ocean trout (gf)

Chilli, Garlic and Oregano Marinated Prawns with Aioli

Tomato tart, olive tapenade (v) Spinach and fetta strudel (v)

MAINS AND SIDES

Zucchini and ricotta crisps (v)

Baguette with Gympie farm Butter

Sweet potato, seared scallop, tomato crème fraiche

Whole Baked Snapper with Lemon and Dill

Beef empanadas, sour cream

Chermoula Marinated BBQ’d Spatchcocks

Crab and prawn cakes, avocado, sour cream

Roasted Leg of Lamb with Rosemary and Garlic

Vietnamese rice paper rolls, crispy shallots (v)

Steamed Kipfler Potatoes with Butter and Thyme

Hervey Bay scallop, green bean remoulade, cucumber cannelon

Vine Ripened Tomato, Rocket and Buffalo Fetta Salad

Sesame snaps, seared tuna, avocado cream, mustard fruits Mooloolaba prawn skewers, pancetta, tomato aioli

DESSERT

Spring lamb pies, minted peas

Little Lemon Tarts with Double Cream

Miniature Wayguyu Burgers

A Selection of Cheeses with Condiments, Breads and Lavosh

Lamb kofte, spiced rice pilaf (gf) Tempura mahi mahi, rosemary roast potatoes Crispy Chinese chicken, hoisin, Asian greens (gf)

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WEDDING VENUES

Wedding Packages • Arrival by helicopter to greet your awaiting guests for your Ceremony • White chairs set up on the mountain edge of your entry • Exclusive reservation for use of Penny Ridge Retreat • Six luxury Bungalows for Bridal Party and Family • Red carpet to highlight your Entrance • Beautifully presented signatory table with centre piece • Full PA surround sound system for background music • White Balinese flags to compliment Ceremony • Rose petal walkway for Bride from helicopter to Ceremony • Full body massage for the Bride and Groom on the morning of the Ceremony Price on Application – starting from $5,000

WEDDING VENUES

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H O N E Y M O O N & G U E S T A C C O M M O D AT I O N The best thing about the honeymoon is THE MOST FUN YOU there is not one part of it you will have to WILL HAVE AT YOUR do to please someone else, unless of course WEDDING IS WHEN it's for the person you just married. This is the time that you can spend together in IT'S ALL OVER AND total disregard for what anyone else wants YOU ARE OFF ON YOUR and there are no rules saying that you have HONEYMOON AND to be conventional.

MY ADVICE TO YOU IS: Usually when you think of honeymoons you DON'T SKIP THE MOON. think of beach and cocktails and sunsets, Depending on your circumstances, your honeymoon may be the first and only real holiday you and your partner have, so live it up big and enjoy – you have a perfect excuse to lounge around in bed for half the morning and laze around by the pool or beach in the afternoon – and so you should.

and I can highly recommend the traditional ideas, but what if you got to do all the stuff you never have time to do. Always wanted to surf? Spend a week having lessons together at a surf school. Love having massages? Spend a week at a spa and be

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pampered and spoiled. Have you dreamed of riding on horseback through the dunes?

Take a holiday at a ranch. Whatever your wildest dreams are, your honeymoon is the time to indulge them; after all, you need to fill in the time in between getting out of and getting back into bed.

Though adventure is often a tempting theme of a honeymoon, there is also a lot to be said for just taking time out from your everyday life to relax and have no plans at all. I think my dream holiday would be waking up

THE HONEYMOON

to a breakfast that someone else cooked, lounging around and reading a great book, eating a lunch that someone else cooked, having a massage then an afternoon snooze before waking up to an apéritif before enjoying an evening meal that someone else cooked, all the while having my feet massaged by the man wearing my ring.

BLISS! 

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A luxury romantic getaway on the far north coast of NSW. Individual private cabins & lodges on 250 acres of genuine old growth rainforest.

World Heritage National Park on three sides, assuring true peace and privacy. With 8km of rainforest walks and 400 year old trees.

• Some cabins have fireplaces & the lodge has a heated plunge pool.

• Full gourmet menu on offer.

• Private dining in your bungalow at your leisure.

• Gourmet picnic baskets.

• Romantic packages and extras.

• In house massage.

• Double spa baths.

201 Brookers Road, Upper Crystal Creek NSW 2484 (02) 6679 1591 relax@ccrr.com.au www.ccrr.com.au 154 AUSTRALIAN WEDDING E-MAGAZINE

H O N E Y M O O N & G U E S T A C C O M M O D AT I O N

Tranquil

Byron Bay accommodation Set amongst six acres of lush, landscaped grounds and bordering the Arakwal National Park, the Oasis Resort and Treetop Houses provide a tranquil and relaxed retreat for wedding groups.

The Treetop Houses offer ideal accommodation for the bride and groom with stunning views over the National Park to the ocean. With glorious rainforest surrounds, total seclusion, private spa and complementary champagne the Treetop Houses are perfectly suited for a special occasion.

Destination weddings are immensely popular and Byron Bay with its stunning natural beauty and pristine beaches is the perfect choice for a seaside wedding venue. Family and friends travelling for your big day are also well catered for at the Oasis Resort. As well as our stunning Treetop Houses we also offer spacious, fully self contained two bedroom apartments. Our apartments offer comfortable, modern accommodation for your wedding guests with views to the National Park and overlooking the resort facilities which include 18m heated pool, floodlit tennis court, BBQ area, spa and sauna.

We would be delighted to accommodate you and your loved ones for your special day and welcome your call to discuss accommodation options and packages.

24 Scott St, Byron Bay, NSW, 2481 P: 02 6685 7390 F: 02 6685 8290 E: stay@byronoasis.com.au

www.byronoasis.com.au

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H O N E Y M O O N & G U E S T A C C O M M O D AT I O N

The Villas of Byron is an exclusive honeymoon destination.

Escape behind nine-foot walls into your own Balinese paradise where even clothing is optional year round. Each villa features a private heated pool and spa, outdoor rain shower and Bliss butler service. Ignite your senses and pamper your soul. Pure indulgence never felt so good.

Tel +61 2 6685 6746 escape@thevillasofbyron.com.au www.thevillasofbyron.com.au H O N E Y M O O N & G U E S T A C C O M M O D AT I O N

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THEN & NOW

Then & Now LIZ MUTKINS SAYS THE LUCKIEST THING ABOUT HER WEDDING DRESS IS THAT SHE IS STILL MARRIED TO THE MAN SHE MARRIED IN IT. What year were you married?

1989 How old were you?

25 Anniversary date ?

April 7

reception with about 120 people, a full three course meal, dancing, and wine. Lots of wine.

What did the groom wear?

Black suit with a bow tie, I think.

Do you think he looked good?

Yes! Gotta also love the ‘80s mullet sported by him and most of the male wedding party.

How much did the dress cost ?

About $500. A friend got the material (Thai silk) for me in Thailand and the dressmaker was a family friend who didn’t charge me as If you could get married all over again, is much as she should have for her skills. there anything you would change?

Yes. I would go for much less formal, maybe What, if anything, did you love about a garden or beach wedding. No puffy your wedding dress? sleeves either.

The material and the lace and bead detail on the front.

What would you do exactly the same?

What, if anything, did you hate about your wedding dress ?

The puffy sleeves!

What sort of wedding did you have?

Where ?

The full shebang. A lovely old Catholic church at Hunters Hill, Sydney, then a

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Same groom! And invite all the same wonderful friends and family.

Anything notable about your wedding?

The dressmaker who made my dress also made my mum’s wedding dress in 1962. The wedding date of April 7 is also my husband’s mum and dad’s anniversary (1955 I think).

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1989 THEN & NOW

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THEN & NOW

1995

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BERNIE BROWNING HAD ALL SHE NEEDED THE DAY SHE GOT MARRIED AND THAT WAS BEAU PETER – NOTHING AS SWEET AS YOUNG LOVE AND NOTHING AS ROMANTIC AND ELOPING WITH THE ONE YOU WANT TO SPEND THE REST OF YOUR LIFE WITH. THOUGH THE COUPLE ELOPED, THEIR WEDDING DAY HAD SURPRISES IN STORE FOR THEM. What year were you married?

1995 How old were you?

19 Anniversary date ?

January 13 How much did the dress cost ?

I think it was about $60 or $80.

What, if anything, did you love about your wedding dress?

It was a dress I had worn before, so it was something used.

What did the groom wear?

Peter had on black shoes, black trousers and a cream shirt to go with my cream dress.

If you could get married all over again, is there anything you would change?

I had the man I loved and a smile in my heart. We had and have always had what we needed and that is each other – but I would have the kids with us next time if we did it over. I would marry Peter again tomorrow so that would have to be what I would do exactly the same.

Anything notable about your wedding?

We had two children when we married What, if anything, did you hate about so money was very tight. We decided to your wedding dress ? wed in the Mullumbimby Catholic church.

I was just so happy to be marrying Peter I When I dropped our children off to Peter’s didn’t care about the dress. I did hate my hair, however. It was messy as I had to do it parents’ place, Peter’s mum had gotten me a beautiful stem of orchids. We went off myself due to no money. and got married; when we came back after What sort of wedding did you have? becoming man and wife, she had organised Where ? for us a BBQ with close friends. She had a We eloped at the Mullumbimby Catholic Church with my sister and Peter’s brother as beautiful wedding cake made for us and it was the most wounderful surpise. It really our witnesses. made our day perfect.

THEN & NOW

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THEN & NOW

2005

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ONE OF HER FRIENDS SAYS OF MARTA BLAIR: ‘SHE WAKES UP BEAUTIFUL’, AND SHE IS ABSOLUTELY RIGHT. MARTA IS ONE OF THOSE NATURALLY BEAUTIFUL AND GENUINELY LOVELY PEOPLE, WHO NO MATTER HOW ENVIOUS YOU MIGHT FEEL OF HER WONDERFUL OPEN PERSONALITY AND HER GORGEOUSNESS, YOU CAN’T HELP BUT LIKE HER. What year were you married?

2005 How old were you?

28 Anniversary date ?

October 15 How much did the dress cost ?

I think it was about $2,000.

What, if anything, did you love about your wedding dress?

I liked the open back.

What, if anything, did you hate about your wedding dress ?

I would have liked the back to have gone a little bit lower.

What did the groom wear?

Grey pants with a white shirt and a pullover vest.

Do you think he looked good?

Yes, he looked very handsome.

If you could get married all over again, is there anything you would change?

Yes – it rained, I would have changed the weather if I could.

What would you do exactly the same?

I would do it all over again exactly the same (without the rain).

Anything notable about your wedding?

It was the most exciting day in my life!

What sort of wedding did you have?

Where ?

We had a beach wedding at Torakina, in Brunswick Heads, then the reception at the Ocean Shores Country Club.

THEN & NOW

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THEN & NOW AS A YOUNG WOMAN IN THE ERA OF FLARES AND FLOWER POWER, GAIL HAD A TYPICAL ‘70s WEDDING COMPLETE WITH FLOPPY HAT, A GROOM DRESSED IN BEIGE AND AUNTY MAUDE IN HER GOLD LUREX. THE REAL SIGN OF THE TIMES WAS THAT NOTHING AT YOUR WEDDING COULD BEAT A GOOD MIXED TAPE MADE BY YOUR BROTHER. What year were you married?

1975 How old were you?

19 years and Rob was 20 (and I wasn’t pregnant!)

with a marquee. We had caterers bring the food for the buffet and my brother taped music for the night.

What did the groom wear?

Rob wore a beige suit.

Anniversary date ?

March 15

Do you think he looked good?

I thought he was very handsome!

How much did the dress cost ? $24 dollars for the material and the lady who lived behind us made it for me as my wedding gift.

If you could get married all over again, is there anything you would change?

I don’t think I’d change anything from that day, but as a mature woman I’d do things differently if I got married today. Our wedding was just right for 1975.

What, if anything, did you love about your wedding dress?

Loved that my dress cost $24 and because it was a skirt and top, I wore the skirt lots of times to other weddings, with different tops.

What, if anything, did you hate about your wedding dress?

Wasn’t anything that I didn’t like about the dress.

What sort of wedding did you have?

Where ?

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Anything notable about your wedding?

One of our guests was a Gypsy Joker and he spent a fair amount of time talking to my uncle who was a physicist with the CSIRO. I wondered what they were talking about.

Also, my dear old Aunty Maude who was about 4’8” and wore a long lurex dress and fox stole, complete with head, got drunk and sat on our friends’ laps and sang them dirty songs! 

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1975 THEN & NOW

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