How many couples can say they fell in love before meeting? Well April and Gino can! After conversing long distance for months – just knowing there’s something special between them – they finally met and haven’t left each others side ever since! #RCRealBride April wore a captivating gown by Raffaele Ciuca. The perfect combination of sexy and sophisticated, this gown is crafted with a delicate cotton lace, featuring a scalloped V neckline and open illusion back, finished with covered buttons and a short train. April also wore a tulle overskirt for the ceremony! Photography by Essie and Elsie THE FIRST SIGHT This started in 2015 when Gino and April first met in Melbourne after conversing long distance talking for months. After developing a great friendship and many conversations on the phone, they finally met in the city. Gino made the big drive from country Victoria Robinvale – as a grape farmer it was hard for him to make the time for things, but April was made a priority – the girl he had fallen for already! Gino made the 6 hour drive to Melbourne and when they finally saw each other they both knew their connection was on another level, it was magical. Something special was taking place and they knew instantly they wanted each other in their lives forever. THE PROPOSAL Fast forward a few years, Gino popped the question at in the grape farm in Robinvale! They were out for a walk, she was a little in front of Gino and when she turned around to see where he was, there he was down on one knee. The sun was setting on the vines, ending the day in a perfect bliss! And of course, April said YES!! THE VENUE Willow & Ivie in country Victoria Nichols point had everything we wanted! A beautiful landscaping grounds and an all in one venue with the beautiful modern chapel which we were married in! We had a small family intimate wedding. It was perfect for our special day, we had previously went to their open day and fell in love with the gorgeous venue, over looking grape vines & stunning gardens. We had both ceremony & reception at the one place, we couldn’t have asked for more! FAVOURITE MOMENT My favourite part of the wedding was seeing Gino cry while I made my big entrance with my dad by my side as he walked me down the aisle. I also started to tear up instantly which is something I will never forget! It was a special, significant moment for me and seeing your loved one cry of happiness is just overwhelming & heart warming to say the least. THE DRESS The Demetrios 636 gown was the first gown I had ever tried on, and as I put it on, I knew it was meant to be for me. I fell in love with it from the moment I came across it online and just had to try it on. I also had the RC Armadale store add a detachable tulle overskirt which I wore for my chapel ceremony and for photos which made my dress extra stunning. I felt beautiful in my RC dress, it was perfect! I always wanted a long sleeve lace dress with little cute buttons at the back and that’s exactly what I found at Raffaele Ciuca! FINDING THE ONE My experience was absolutely wonderful! I was so incredibly happy with the Armadale store! Being 6 hours away from Melbourne, the trips down were so worth it. I was taken care of by Billie and will never forget how much she helped me and Jo was also incredibly lovely! I followed through with the RC alterations in Brunswick and the ladies were just brilliant with everything, from customer service to final touches to my dress. Overall I am so happy I chose RC for my special day. ADVICE FOR OTHER BRIDES The dress will fit on final pick up. Try to stress less and everything will come together! VENDORS Photography – Essie + Elsie – @essieandelsie Venue – @willowandivie Organisation- Planning – Leah/Willow & Ivie Chapel Celebrant/ Ceremony – @jangoodiesonmilduracelebrant Hairstylist – @elegancehairsalon_ Makeup- @beauty_byannette Shoes – @jimmychoo & Iconic Invitations & Personalised Suit – @iliya.invitations Suit/Attire- @doughaynesmildura Mildura Flowers – @flowers_ofelegance Cake – Stephanie Cavallo Engagement Ring & Wedding Bands- @mildurashowcasejewellers & @michaelhillj Jewellery @tiffanyandco @chanelofficial