As the co-owner of a boutique event styling business, One Fine Day, Simone had a fairly clear vision of what she wanted to create for their special day – a romantic, intimate country affair with beautiful flowers and vintage elements to draw upon the charm of the little white chapel where they would tie the knot.
Simone tells their story:
“My partner and I were fortunate to cross paths through mutual friends. After 7 wonderful years together, a very romantic proposal followed on Christmas Eve in New York, under the Rockefeller Centre Xmas tree.
It all started with a picture-perfect white chapel, in my home town of Toowoomba, Australia, during the month of spring (which is carnival of flowers). We wanted to create a romantic, intimate affair, which incorporated little details that reflected the picturesque surrounds, our personalities and our heritage.
I knew that I wanted to wear something unique, with a slight vintage feel. When I laid eyes on the Johanna Johnson Florence gown in her Sydney boutique, it was love at first sight! “Oh my gosh… that Parisian lace!” It was the first wedding gown I tried on, and nothing else after that could compare. Johanna helped me to select the Harlow belt to add a touch of art deco sparkle. I teamed my wedding gown with a birdcage veil from Twigs and Honey, vintage look accessories from Chelsea De Luca and Christian Louboutin heels. I wore sapphire and diamond earrings, which were a surprise gift from my soon-to-be husband on the day.
I wanted each of my gorgeous maids to wear a slightly different dress (I have never been a fan of all three girls dressed exactly the same). We sourced two soft cream dresses from Zimmermann, and one from Therese Rawsthorne, and styled these with vintage Swarovski brooches purchased from various vintage shops. The girls wore nude heels from Christian Louboutin and Peeptoe Shoes, a variety of earrings, and art deco Mimco bracelets (which I gifted them on the day). The boys wore classic black suits with ivory shirts, black skinny ties, and black slim fit lace-up shoes. Smart and timeless!
There are so many beautiful memories from our wedding day that I will always treasure, but a particularly special moment was my wonderful Dad walking me down the aisle to give me away to the man I adore (who was welling up with tears!), whilst surrounded by our closest family and friends. Saying our vows (at this point I was welling up with tears!), being announced Mr & Mrs Venning, listening to the heartfelt speeches at the reception and dancing the night away to the live Jazz band with my new husband are also at the top of the list!
My parents beautiful landscaped gardens were the perfect setting for an afternoon garden party, before an evening of dinner and dancing at Preston Manor. My grandmother’s vintage pearl brooch, borrowed from my sister, was pinned to my bridal bouquet.
Words of advice: Include personal details that reflect you, your groom and your family/friends. To choose colours, try selecting paint swatches from Bunning’s – this is a great way to show vendors your choice of colours (particularly your florist and stationary designer). The options are endless when choosing a gorgeous theme for your wedding. This is where it can be helpful to employ the assistance of an event stylist, to help you pull all your ideas together and ensure your vision flows naturally throughout the wedding.
We included vintage elements to draw upon the old world charm of the venue, including crystal vases, vintage doilies, an old wire birdcage and handmade fabric bunting (made by my Mum and bridesmaid). Tables were adorned with lovely pastel posies and hand painted table numbers on mini easels. We made cake pops as wedding favours for all the guests, and these also served as quirky place cards.
Simone's top tips for brides to be are:
01. Be true to what you and your partner want
Don’t feel pressured by others; this day is all about you two and your love for one another
02. Select an amazing photographer
Feather and Stone captured our memories so beautifully; we will treasure these pictures forever.
03. Employ an on-the-day coordinator
This will ensure everything goes off without a hitch and eliminates stress for yourself and your family/friends on your special day. Sit back and enjoy the show!
04. Stop, breathe, and take it all in
The day goes so quickly. Most of all – HAVE FUN!
Photography by Feather and Stone Photography. Event styling by One Fine Day. Flowers by Kate Dawes. Venue: Preston Chapel and Manor, Toowoomba & Ainslie Gardens, Vale View. Stationary: Eske. Simone was inspired by Bride to be Be magazine, Green Wedding Shoes and Style Me Pretty.
By Ingrid Szajer
Lindsey