“Lucy in Brunswick was so warm and accommodating. She took into consideration my style and budget, making the process easy and I was able to walk out having said ‘yes to the dress’ leaving me with an excited buzz.” #RCREALBRIDE KARLIE RC – How did you meet Sam? Sam and I met as teenagers in 2008 however our story goes a little further back in time. Sam’s sister and I attended the same primary school when we were children. We spent a great deal of time together during our childhood in the later primary years. As such, I knew Sam as the big brother who was a little too cool for the giggles and games of his sister and her friend. His sister and I went on to attend different high schools and so we lost contact. However, Sam spotted me a number of years later, recalling me as familiar and thought he would strike up a conversation over Myspace (the trending social media craze at the time). Our paths had crossed again and young love soon followed. RC – How did Sam propose? Sam proposed on our anniversary in May, 2015. He had arranged dinner with our families at our favourite restaurant under the premise that we were celebrating his mum, brother and my own birthday which all occur in that week. This restaurant was the first place he had taken me on a date and had been a favourite venue for us over the years. Sam got down on one knee after dinner in front of our families and a restaurant full of strangers. It was an emotional moment, I am still yet to officially say ‘yes’. I’ve never seen him so short for words and overcome with emotion as he was that night. I did a happy dance on the spot and said something along the lines of ‘is this really my moment?’ through tears. It was the perfect sentiment, I loved sharing the moment there and then with those who love us most. He certainly knows me well. RC – Is there a particular reason as to why you chose your venue? Sutton Grange Winery was our venue of choice largely for the beautiful scenery it offered. It was a quick decision for us once we had a tour and we couldn’t have been happier with our decision following the day. RC – Your favourite part of the wedding? Sam – Our Bridal Dance. The excitement of our guests in the room brought what we had been practicing to life. That lift was executed to perfection. Karlie – Setting up a dress reveal with my dad and sister. That moment and the emotion on my Dad’s face will never leave me. RC – How did the dress make you feel? On the day my dress made me feel incredible. My chosen style was not what I had originally envisioned however I am so happy with my choice. That moment where you put the dress on once your hair and make up is complete is a wonderful experience, you feel complete and I felt so confident that I would ‘wow’ Sam walking down the aisle. RC – How was your bridal shopping experience? I had a lovely experience at RC! It was my final destination after a couple of less than desirable experiences in other stores. Lucy in Brunswick was so warm and accommodating. She took into consideration my style and budget, making the process easy and I was able to walk out having said ‘yes to the dress’ leaving me with an excited buzz. I never envisaged myself in a strapless gown in fact I continually turned down suggestions to try gowns with this neckline. I eventually obliged and am so grateful that I did as I fell in love with my dress. I opted for ivory lace over light gold to give the dress a romantic and warm hue. I wouldn’t change a thing about it, I truly felt fabulous in my dress on the day. 7. Tips for brides-to-be! Talk with your partner about what is important to each other about your day and don’t lose sight of the simple moments. Sam and I shared a moment later in the evening where we walked away from our reception and stood back looking up at all the love and fun being shared by our guests. It was a wonderful opportunity to absorb how lucky we were. Photography by Whites + Woods