SOMETHING I LEARNT

Investing in a live band can make all the difference to your party’s vibe. It’s a sure way to get guests up on their feet and having a great time?

On my 30th birthday, Cam surprised me with a hot air balloon ride over the Yarra Valley. We had been together for five years and I was certain he was going to propose. Instead, Cam chose an ordinary Saturday, decking out our living room with hundreds of twinkling fairy lights, candles and rose petals, before getting down on bended knee.

One year later, Bracu at the Simunovich Olive Estate, south of Auckland, hosted our Easter weekend wedding. We loved the grounds' sweeping olive groves, and the light-filled indoor reception space was ideal for tempera-mental weather. Bracu is also renowned for its outstanding food and, both being foodies, we wanted to treat our guests. The succulent eye fillet and delectable salted caramel puddings were particular standouts. To keep our decor simple and chic, we chose a colour palette of black and white. Sardna from Wild Flower created our floral arrangements and elevated displays featuring white hydrangeas, roses and gypsophila. An incredible feature wall crafted with lush green foliage and candles in hanging glass globes acted as a backdrop to the head table.

I wanted something modern and a little sexy, but tasteful, for my gown. Living in Melbourne at the time, I went to Peter de Petra to get one custom-made. My dream dress featured a sheer and applique lace bodice, a deep V-back and neckline, and silk skirt with a chapel train. I accessorised with strappy gold Stuart Weitzman heels, diamond stud earrings and fresh white flowers twisted into my chignon.

My three bridesmaids, all long-time friends, wore black off-the- shoulder cocktail dresses from Witchery with lace-up Wittner heels, while the guys all donned classic black tuxes with bow ties from Frank Casey. Cam is an avid sneaker fan and while I wasn’t about to agree to him wearing them with his tux, we incorporated it elsewhere - we had mini 3D-printed replicas of ourselves sitting atop our two-tiered cake (made by our dear friend Hannah) and yes, Cam is wearing his favourite Nike Air Jordan 1s! It was a real talking point among the guests and a fun way to show our personalities on what was an unforgettable day.

Wedding Dresses at Styletheaisle.