A true homage to Melbourne in these beautiful wedding photos of Danielle + Marlin. With iconic backdrops like Parliament House, the CBD Trams, Pelleigrini’s and the Melbourne City scape. We gotta give it to Marlin who didn’t call it quits after Danielle arrived hours late to their first date. As we heard more about their bond and dating period, it was pretty clear to see this beautiful couple have a connection perfect for one another. #RCREALBRIDE Danielle wore the 717 gown by Demetrios. Richly embroidered luxurious lace adorns this stunning fit n flare gown with sweetheart neckline, long sleeves, chapel train and dramatic low sheer back with buttons. Photography: T-One Image THE FIRST SIGHT I first saw Marlin at a club, nothing much really happened that night. It wasn’t until a few weeks later that we found each other on social media. Our first date was at 400 Gradi on Lygon Street, I was hours late but he obviously didn’t seem to mind because we have been inseparable since! THE PROPOSAL The proposal was incredibly romantic. There were tea light candles lighting up the room and music playing. Marlin first read out a poem to me, whilst my eyes were closed and when I opened them he was down on one knee. I definitely didn’t see it coming as he always told me getting married would happen but not in the near future. It was a beautiful surprise. THE VENUE We chose Encore in St Kilda and knew that was our spot from the moment we walked into the venue. The location is central for guests with lots of beautiful places near by to take photos. The views of the beach are just stunning and the food is to die for. We had short listed to about 6 venues but nothing topped encore for us, it was also the perfect size for our intimate wedding. FAVOURITE MOMENT Having my dad walking me down the aisle and to see Marlin at the end waiting for me was by far the highlight of my day. We also had traditional Lebanese drums play to our entrance at the reception and was one big party, everyone loved it! THE DRESS I was lucky to only try on about 4 dresses before I fell in love with my Demetrios gown. The off-the-shoulder design and incredibly low back ticked all the boxes for me. I got so many compliments on the beautiful lace detailing on my gown and how well it suited my figure. It was everything I imagined my wedding gown to be and more. FINDING THE ONE I shopped both at the Armadale and Brunswick and both boutiques provided exceptional service. I had Lucy assist me who was wonderful, patient and understanding. The team at the alterations were fantastic. They knew exactly how I wanted the dress to fit and understood my body shape perfectly. Everyone made my experience enjoyable and memorable. ADVICE FOR OTHER BRIDES Get a wedding diary and write notes on everything in there. Its important to remember that whilst it can get overwhelming and stressful to take a minute to focus on the bigger picture and that is getting married to your soul mate. Your wedding day should hopefully only happen once and it should be the happiest time of your life, I think that is very important to remember as it easy to get swept into getting stressed over things that don’t really matter. VENDORS Dress: Raffaele Ciuca Bridal Photographer: T-One Images Venue: Encore St Kilda Flowers: Bouquets and Button Holes by Buds N Roses Reception Styling: Melbourne Event Florals Cake: Buds N Roses Hair: Hair by Neveen Makeup: Sophia Make-up Artist