#RCREALBRIDE Shannon wore the stunning Allure Bridals gown in #9416. A smooth satin finish paired with tiered ruffles lends itself to a truly statuesque strapless gown. Beautiful high school sweethearts, Shannon & Alex-Joel, took us on a journey of wonder as they tied the not at the Riverstone Estate in Coldstream. Their chic-country wedding was set amongst acres of vines, against a backdrop of panoramic views of the Yarra Valley. Their photos display a mix of breathtaking views of the sunset, romantic moments in a wheat field and smiles among the manicured gardens. Photography & Videography: Whites and Woods Photography THE FIRST SIGHT Alex-Joel and I met at the ages of 16 and 14. We were the lucky high school sweetheart couple. I can remember so clearly watching him walk across the school’s oval, in his baggy school pants and black hoddie – the appearance of a high school bad boy. From that moment on, we were inseparable. Our first date was at the local library, we spent hours walking down each aisle chatting about our favourite books, and to this day it is still my favourite date. THE PROPOSAL We were campervanning around New Zealand and stopped a few nights in Queenstown. He took me on a romantic backwards dinner date; deserts, mains and then entrees, overlooking the beautiful views. We were lucky enough to be alone as he took me up to the beautiful lookout. After eight wonderful years, he got down on one knee and popped the question. You would expect after eight years, you would be prepared, but I couldn’t stop asking if he was serious! THE VENUE We tied the knot at the stunning Riverstone Estate in Coldstream. We had a look at numerous venues around Victoria, but nothing compared to Riverstone Estate. It was everything we were looking for, an astonishing view, kind and generous staff and a relaxed and welcoming feel. As soon as we stepped out of the car at Riverstone, we knew that was place we wanted to get married. FAVOURITE MOMENT There are too many favourite memories! Walking down the aisle to marry my best friend, was one thing I don’t think I could ever explain or ever forget. Then, walking hand in hand down by the river was one of my most memorable highlights from our day. We were alone, and we couldn’t wipe the smiles off our faces. THE DRESS I never in a million years thought I would pick the style I did for my wedding dress! My mother was the one who suggested I try it on, and I could never thank her enough. I had tried on so many wedding dresses before this one and had almost lost hope. But once I had that dress on, I felt like a bride. The buttons down the back of my dress was my favourite feature, the simplicity of the dress and the train brought the whole piece together. It was elegant and timeless. FINDING THE ONE As soon as you walk into Raffaele Cuica you feel like a bride. Jo, was outstanding! She helped me in and out of dresses, encouraged me that she would find my dream dress. And sure, enough we did. She allowed me to sob all through the appointment and even let us truly celebrate with some champagne! ADVICE FOR OTHER BRIDES Soak up the moment! You just got married, so remember that! Take a walk, just the two of you, and look at what you have created, look at the smiled and look at each other. It’s one of the most romantic, memorable moments of your night. VENDORS Photographer: Whites and Woods Link: https://www.whitesandwoods.com/ Venue: The Riverstone Estate Link: http://www.theriverstoneestate.com.au/ Flowers: Flowers of Yarra Glen Link: http://www.flowersofyarraglen.com.au/ Cake: Renate Elise Designer Cakes Link: https://www.facebook.com/renate.elise/ Hair: Harlen Hair Link: https://www.harlenhairmelbourne.com/ Makeup: Nicole Aquilina Makeup Artist Link: https://www.instagram.com/_namakeup/