Who knew being passionate about recycling could lead to finding the love of your life?! Renee and Josh have the cutest meeting story! Communal office kitchens, who would have thought!?
#rcrealbride Renee wore the Koda Gown by Maggie Sottero – A Sweetheart fit-and-flare gown, chic and classic, we added customised sleeves as per Renees request which added the perfect dose of vintage glamour.
Photography by Icon Photography
THE FIRST SIGHT
We actually met at work. We worked in the same building, but different businesses. Our path crossed so many times in the communal kitchen area and stairway and we always said a quick ‘Hi’ and that’s as far as it went. Josh always comments on how he thought I was out of his league so he never tried to approach me but says he always had his ‘eye on me’.
One day, I started noticing Josh was more around and wanted to get his attention, it all started by me yelling at him for throwing his rubbish in the wrong bin and been inseparable since. We went out for our first date at Demazzi’s in Essendon. We sat there for nearly 6 hours talking, we both absolutely love food but our meals were barely touched.
THE PROPOSAL
We had booked a holiday to Fiji. When we arrived I saw the resort offered sunset horse rides around the resort which I really wanted to do. So we booked to do it the second night we were there … little did I know he had that booked and planned for us weeks before. We went on the horses around the resort and went to the top of the hill where you can see the perfect sunset and that is where we stopped. A musician was there playing his ukulele. The sun was just setting and there were roses on the floor in a big love heart and stones inside saying “Will you marry me my love?” I of course said ‘Yes’. He had also organised a photographer who took some amazing photos around the resort. This was followed by a private beach dinner with candles and roses everywhere. It was a magical day/night and it truly made me feel like a princess.
We had just purchased our first home before him proposing, I knew we would eventually get engaged just not that soon.
THE VENUE
We decided on Leonda by the Yarra. There was nothing we didn’t love about it. The greenery surrounding the venue, the river and option to leave by boat was so unique, we loved the floor to ceiling windows. Leonda was our first stop and we both fell inlove. We went and looked at four other venues but I think the minute we walked into Leonda our minds where set.
FAVORITE MOMENT
The whole day! From the minute waking up and realising I was marrying my best friend to celebrating with our close family and friends. It was a magical day for us.
I especially loved getting ready with my girls and mum in the morning it was so much fun getting all dolled up, it makes you feel so special.
I was so relaxed and excited until I got in the car to drive to the ceremony, that’s when the butterflies started.
However they all disappeared the second I walked into the church and looked at Joshua. His big smile looking at me made me forget everything and just wanted to speed-walk to him haha.
We loved our reception, from our first dance and speeches and then the party! It was so much fun and my feet definitely paid for it the next day.
THE DRESS
My dress! I absolutely fell in love with it the second I put it on. It made me feel like such a princess and was so just ‘Me’. I loved my train and my custom made sleeves, they were exactly what I wanted for my dress. The RC alterations crew did a fabulous job with my sleeves they were exactly how I pictured them to be. I had gone to 1 other dress store and tried on 8 dresses and was getting a little worried I wouldn’t find the dress and have to settle. I went into RC and Pina who helped was a GODDESS! The second dress I tried with her was the one!
FINDING THE ONE
PINA! Love her service and warm feel. She was amazing and helped me find the one!
TIPS FOR ALL THE BRIDES TO BE
My biggest thing I enjoyed about planning my wedding was how my husband really helped with everything. Every decision, idea and moment. The experience wouldn’t have been the same without him. It made it so much fun, I would go through it all over again with him.
TiPS FOR A HAPPY RELATIONSHIP
Communication and comprimise. Also don’t forget to show your partner how much they mean to you EVERYDAY. No excuses.
Vendors
Photographer: Icon Photography
Venue: Leonda by the Yarra
Church/Celebrant: Our Lady of Lebanon
Flowers: In Bloom Floral Design by Diana
Hair: Jessica Rose Hairstylist
Makeup: Sel.B Makeup
Shoes: ASOS
Invites: Chic Creative
Suits: Black Tie Classic
Band/DJ: DJ Michael Masri
Bridesmaid Dresses: Forever New
Bonbonerie: Etsy (DIY) Lemoncello Bottles
Rings: Diamond Guys
Videographer: Allure Productions