#RCREALBRIDE Amelia wore the Charlene gown by Maggie Sottero. This vintage-inspired A-line wedding gown features a beaded bodice accented in Swarovski crystals and sheer side insets. Beaded spaghetti straps complete the V-neckline, trimmed in illusion, and scoop back. Sheath skirt comprised of tulle with a princess seam slit. Finished with covered buttons over zipper closure. Tulle veil accented in pearls and Swarovski crystals sold separately.
Photographer: Tori & Sal
THE FIRST SIGHT
Lyall & I met in Perth. He did a massive favour for my housemate who needed a plaster patch job on her wall and then wouldn’t take any money for it so we cooked him dinner instead. We hit it off straight away leading to many more dinners & an adventurous 5 years together!
THE PROPOSAL
It was a long weekend in September 2017 when we decided to get away to Sydney for a few days. Lyall had the proposal planned for a long time having the ring designed and made by his uncle in NZ. The ring only arrived the day before we flew out so later did I find out he was in a bit of a panic.
As soon as we arrived we went down to Bondi beach where Lyall proposed, little did we know a backpacker was taking some tourist shots and happened to capture Lyall on one knee. We returned to Victoria and three days later to find we had been tagged in a post on Facebook with the backpacker in search of the “loved of couple” hoping to find us.
The article went viral and it was lovely getting well wishers from across the world congratulating us. The article can be found here.
THE VENUE
We found it hard to find a venue on the Bellarine Peninsula that held over 120 people for a sit down meal which pushed us towards Terindah Estate. We only live 5 minutes from this wonderful venue and the views over the You Yangs, Melbourne and the city Skyline are divine along with the fact Terindah is on 100 acres providing many stunning photo opportunities.
FAVOURITE MOMENT
My husband and I danced to a choreographed Frank Sinatra song “The way you look tonight” and we had so much fun!
THE DRESS
After first visiting Aramdale to see their range we headed to Raffaele Ciuca Brunswick because their range is different to the Armadale store. Lucky we did because Brunswick Raffaele Ciuca store was where my dream Maggie Sottero gown was! As if this isn’t fate the gown was only in store for 2 days and in my size too! I was so lucky to have the opportunity to try this special one of a kind dress on & it was just perfection!
FINDING THE ONE
My experience was so much fun, my Mum and I first visited the Armadale RC and Jo really made our experience wonderful with her bubbly personality especially going out of her way to help me find the dream dress. The ladies at RC Brunswick were equally amazing and accomodating!
ADVICE FOR OTHER BRIDES
Soak up every moment of the day, especially when you are walking down the isle to your future husband with all of your favourite people ready to celebrate your marriage – all in one location!
My best relationship advice is to try your best not to nag your partner and make sure he always feels loved even if you are having a bad day. Maybe he has too? Communication is key.
VENDORS
Dress: Raffaele Ciuca Bridal
Photographer: Tori & Sal
Venue: Terindah Estate
Church/Celebrant: Ned by Wed
Flowers: My parents own a florist shop in Warrnambool. The Fresh Flower Market.
Cake: Cake Booth
Hair: Hair by Sheridan
Makeup: Blush Bar Geelong
Suits: NZ Brand
Bridesmaid Dresses: Pilgrim
Rings: Lyall’s uncle is a jeweller and designed the engagement ring and wedding ring. Bezett Jewellers in Dunedin, NZ
