Classic Wedding Invitations - Aaron & Lisa’s Wedding Video

Aaron & Lisa’s Wedding Video - A Celebration of Love and Joy!

The Wedding Video of Aaron & Lisa’s - A Celebration of Love and Joy!

Here is a snippet of Aaron and Lisa’s wedding video highlighting the most special and joyous moments of the night! When choosing your videographer, make sure that you are clear with them as to what you would like the wedding video to highlight and portray so that all the magical moments are captured for your kids to watch in 10 years time!

The couple were married at Emu Bottom homestead in Sunbury, VIC on January 3, 2015. This beautiful Australian wedding was full of native blooms and rustic touches to create a warm country feel. The bridal party also brought some surprise entertainment to the night making it a memorable one!

Click play to watch the wedding video!

We Have the Perfect Wedding Present Idea For You!

Wedding Present Idea

If you are trying to find a wedding present for a friend, we have the perfect idea for you! Recently, a client came to us with a game she wanted engraved as a wedding gift. This idea is the perfect way to give a close friend a present that has sentimental value to it. The personalised touch ensures that the person receiving it appreciates the effort you’ve gone through to make it stand out from the rest. This will be a clear winner in their eyes!

Get in touch now to make your own game board!

Wedding Seating Chart - a unique idea!

A Unique Wedding Seating Chart!

Are you looking for a distinctive wedding seating chart that is suited to your wedding theme? This is one we created for one of our lovely client’s wedding who requested for their chart to incorporate elements of their wedding theme! We digitally printed the wedding list onto fabric which was based on their country landscape invite. The finished result was absolutely incredible as the wedding seating chart perfectly complimented the overall wedding theme.

As we all know, wedding seating charts can be a very tedious task and probably the most stressful part to the wedding. Just keep in mind that this is your special day, your wedding guests are there to celebrate this occasion with you and will be happy regardless of their allocated seats.

At Classic Wedding Invitation, we create many similar products, for more ideas click here and for any enquiries you can send us a message here or call us on 03 9939 4796.

Traditional Wedding Vows and A Day Filled with Joy, Remembrance and Love

Michael and Panagiota Andreadakis celebrated their special day with close family, friends and a cultural connection that was beautifully highlight in the day from the traditional wedding vows to the religious rituals and other wedding traditions that followed. This traditional Cretan wedding was nothing short of incredible with the rich cultural influence and lively atmosphere that was evident throughout the day!

With less than 9 months to organise an engagement and wedding, the couple did an astonishing job at putting together a traditional Cretan wedding! Their special day, September 6 2014, celebrated all aspects of their life, including their cultural background and traditional ceremonies. Their Cretan culture and traditions were a prominent theme through out the day from the lively music and dancing, to the the delectable cuisine . The night was full of joy and happiness, and we wish them many more in the future!

THE PROPOSAL

The proposal and the lead up to it was a very sweet and bitter story. Michael had proposed just soon after he had lost his dad. It was a moment of joy and happiness and a moment of sadness and emptiness to know that both your parents could not be there to share your experience and the beginning of your new life. The day of the proposal we were meant to just hang out and watch DVDs but Michael wanted to take me to dinner. I thought something strange was going on so I quickly did my hair and makeup to look half decent and my nails in the car – just in case. We had decided on Othellos Restaurant at South Bank. As we walked towards the restaurant it was raining but Michael continued to walk towards the river. I thought to myself with fustration – its raining, I have a cold, im completely freezing, and all I want to do is eat, so where is he going??). He took me to where I took him to sit on his birthday just before dinner when we first started dating. It then dawned on me and immediately yelled out with excitement ‘OMG you are going to do it aren’t you?” and surely enough he proposed to me with a Cretan Mandinada (Cretan poem).

LEAD UP TO THE WEDDING

The lead up to the wedding was very intense as we had only 9 months to organise an Engagement and Wedding.

INSPIRATION OF WEDDING THEME & TRADITIONS

The inspiration and theme of our wedding derived from our culture and traditions. Both been half Cretan/Cypriot we wanted to incorporate as much as we could. We had traditional wedding vows along with many cultural traditions, food, music etc…

Traditions leading up to the wedding included:

The week before the wedding we did our Krevati which translates to ‘the dressing of the bed’. This was done by the single bridesmaids and cousins. Each girls sews a red ribbon cross at each corner of the bed, the sheets are layed, money and Newborns/young children are also thrown and rolled on the bed to symbolise wealth and fertility.

Traditions on the wedding day included:

All of my bridesmaids, flower girl and single ladies wrote their name on the bottom of my shoe. The one that rubbed off by the end of the night was said to be wedded next.
The boys wore Sarikia (traditional Cretan scarf) over their shoulders symbolising Michaels parents, my love for Cretan dancing and most importantly where we are both from – Crete.
Red scarf – is wrapped around the bride and groom by relatives to symbolise luck and fertility
As part of our wedding entrance we offered our guests shots of Commandaria and Raki, traditional drinks of Cyprus and Crete symbolising the welcoming to our event and the beginning of our festivities for the evening
At the reception we also had traditional Cretan dancing from Panagiota’s dance group – Pancretan Association of Melbourne and a Cypriot wine floor show performed by one of our dear friend.

DETAIL/MOMENT

Some of our special wedding details included:

I had made a photo pendant of Michaels parents which I had on my bouquet – in loving memory
Our bonbonierre was a Briki (traditional greek coffee perculator) to complement this Michael godmother arranged traditional wedding biscuits from Cyprus. For us this symbolised the offering of a drink and sweet to our guests, as this would be the first two things you offer guests when they come to visit you at your house.
Framed family photos from our parents, grandparents and greatgrandparents were placed in the foyer of the reception symbolising the generations.
I had ordered personalised letter cut outs ‘Mr & Mrs Andreadakis’ for our bridal table
I had ordered personalised hangers for the mum, girls and myself
During the lead up to the wedding I had organised a pre wedding shoot with our photographer and reception as a surprise for Michael. I had arranged to dress in full traditional Cretan Costumes. Little to his knowledge I had organised to have this professionally framed and a plaque of Crete engraved with the Mantinada (Cretan poem) he had proposed to me with. I surprised him with this on the day of the wedding where he had proposed and later displayed at the reception
In the morning we had musicians playing at both houses to kick off the celebrations and also at the church as panagiota arrived and walked into the church. At the brides home the traditional Cypriot band played and at the grooms home the traditional Cretan band.
I had personalised ‘Mrs Andreadakis Est. 6.9.14’ stickers made and stuck to the inside of my shoes.

DIY PROJECTS

I spent endless hours creating things to personalise our wedding.

I designed and created my own wedding cake, candy buffet and candy thank you boxes.
As family is a big part of who we both are I had found old photos of our parents, grandparents and great-grandparents and framed them to be displayed at the reception.
I handmade our bridal party invites asking them to be part of our bridal party
I had made and put together all our table numbers and wishing well suitcase
I made my own garter
We had put together bridal party and parent thank you gift boxes for the wedding day

Girls – mirrored jewellery box which included a perfume, earrings, bracelet, ring, personalised named hanger, silk robe and blingy flats (for throughout the day)

Boys – wooden box which included their bow tie, cologne, cigar, and Sariki (Cretan traditional scarf)

A family friend had helped us put together our church candles and bonbonierres
We had a personalised engraved lock to place on the lock bridge just where Michael had proposed along South Bank

DRESS

Been a girl you always dream of what your dress would look like. I spent endless hours looking on social media, wedding dress shops and bridal magazines for ideas.

I tried on only 2 dresses which I decided to cut and paste different aspect of to make my dress.

FUNNY STORIES

Michael and I had booked our church and reception before he proposed. The week before he proposed his cousin got engaged and booked their church. Turns out we both booked the same church on the same day just different times! As the saying goes, great minds think alike!
Our bed was delivered at 5pm the night before our wedding and left on our floor in slats and bubble wrap…….. At the time this definitely was not funny, but now that we look back all we can do is laugh.
My sister caught the bouquet and out of pure excitement opened her ‘winners champagne’ which showered most of our guests and completely drenched the MC – which is my boss’ husband!

ADVICE

Dedicate at least one day a week ‘date nigtht’ where you do not talk about the wedding otherwise you will go crazy.
Make your wedding about you as a couple and not of other peoples expectations. Do not allow others to get involved!
Be prepared and always have a Plan A, B and C for when things don’t go to plan or fall through. Remember to breathe as what is meant to be will be.
Evaluate what are the most important things to spend your money on

And last but not least

Enjoy your day to the fullest as you will not have the opportunity to feel those emotions, or have those moments again.

VENDOR CREDITS

CHURCH: St Eustathios Greek Orthodox Church

RECEPTION : Normanby House

PHOTOGRAPHER: Dana Tsokas

VIDEOGRAPHER: Cine Style Studio

BRIDAL ACCESSORIES: Imposters Bridal Jewellery

FLOWERS: Balwyn Events

HAIR: Emmanuel Ammo Hairdressing

CARS: Image Limousines

Mr and Mrs Macdonald- A Rustic Themed Wedding Inspiration

If you are looking for rustic themed weddings for inspiration, then look no further then this wedding post! From the wooden and rustic interior to the outdoor barrels and quirky decor, this wedding will have you wishing you were one of the lucky guests! We were excited at Classic Wedding Invitations to be apart of this beautiful wedding and create rustic themed invitations! For more wedding invitations, click here.

Mr and Mrs. Macdonald tied the knot on the 23rd of October 2014 in Perth at the Australian Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Their wedding vows and expressions of love for one another was intimately shared in front of 30 guests. Later in the evening, the reception commenced at Darlington Estate Winery with around 90 more guests celebrating this magical day with the newly married husband and wife.

Did you have a clear idea of what you wanted long before you were engaged or were most of your decisions made in the time before your wedding?

Maybe not a clear idea but I did have an idea. I wanted to be different and resourceful, but at the same time accomplishing my ideal wedding on a budget.

What help did you have planning your wedding? (wedding planners, family input, visit any expos) Did your husband have a big say in many of your choices?

I did everything myself with second opinions from my family (sisters). My oldest sister, a qualified events planner who also done wedding planning for 1-2 years was a huge help, especially on the day, being my events coordinator and made sure everything ran smoothly.

Help from my husband, NONE haha I tried to get him involved but he kept telling me he doesn’t know and that he’s not creative. He told me to stop stressing, do less and not to worry about the finer details. If he had anything to do with the planning he probably would have had a potluck.

Decorating and decorations were done by myself with a few helping hands from my family and friends. Was stressful in some moments but enjoyed being creative.

What type of invitations did you have and how early did you notify your guests about the date?

I had wooden invitations “Vintage Bird” styled invites from Classic Wedding Invitations. I did modify the invite slightly and removed the bird from the invite. I sent out save the dates which was ordered through Apple (turned out great and very cost efficient) these were sent out 6 months prior to the wedding, with RSVP details. My invites were sent out 2 months prior to the wedding with time, location and further RSVP details.

How did you go in regards to your dress - Did you design it yourself or shop around to find what you wanted?

My dream was to have a Jenny Packham wedding gown but didn’t think it would actually happen. I looked up online to see the stock lists for WA/Australia and I managed to find one store in Perth and two stores in Sydney, so I booked myself in for an appointment.

My dress was purchased a month after getting engaged and was the very first dress I tried on. When I tried it on, at first I was like mmmmm it’s ok but not in love with it. But after I tried on the other dresses, I had to try it on again, then I feel in love. My sisters felt the same and said to get it. I wanted to look around but they said it might not be here if I wait. It was out of my budget hence the hesitation, but didn’t take much convincing. It was a Jenny Packham, Esme gown.

I knew if I got this dress everything else on me will need to be simple. I had buyer’s remorse for a while, but it’s definitely a timeless piece. Will keep it as a family heirloom, hopefully for my daughters to wear on their wedding day.

Did you have a theme on the day and what did you decide in regards to decorations and flower/table arrangements?

My theme was everything white, wooden and rustic. I wanted it simple with elegance.

Everyone said it wasn’t simple, but to me it was. Was a little worried how it was going to turn out, but when everything came together it looked amazing.

It’s inevitable many things don’t always go to plan. Was there anything that caught you off guard on your wedding day?

I have to say nothing went wrong. Everything went the way it should, if not better. Enjoyed every moment, was such a lovely, stress free day for everyone.

What advice could you give to bride-to-be’s? Any services you were happy with, would you do anything different? Any improvements you could have made?

Advice, I received the same advice from friends that were brides but didn’t listen and wish I did. Have a small intimate wedding (immediate family only), save money! don’t spend too much and spend it on an amazing honeymoon. After our wedding I wouldn’t change a thing and we still managed to have a lovely honeymoon in Fiji.

Improvements, nothing really, Ceremony was amazing and absolutely beautiful (best part of the day) I think as brides when planning we need to remember that’s all that really matters.

The venue could have not been a better location for our wedding. It definitely suited both our personalities. Staff were lovely and very helpful on the day.

It was a personalized wedding, bonbonnieres hand written and put together by myself. During the reception, my husband and I went around to all the guests as we wanted to show and express our appreciation for everyone being there. Time does go by really fast so take a moment to sit back and enjoy.

I was prepared for something or anything to go wrong and if something did, I wouldn’t of cared. I’m glad I was like that, the day was beautiful, nothing went wrong (that I know of) and it definitely was a day that we will remember and cherish forever.

Vendors

Photography: James Simmons Photography

Bridal gown : Jenny Packham Gown from Elle Boutique Nedlands WA

Head piece: Ivory Bird

Shoes: The Bridal Room

Bridesmaids dresses: White Runway

Grooms suit: Anthony Squires

Grooms Shoes: Aquila

Groomsmen suits: Rodger David (Charcoal)

Ceremony: Perth Australian Temple, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Reception: Darlington Estate Winery

Reception stylist / any decorations / details : Rustic Romance

Stationery designer: Menus, name tags and bonbonnieres were done by myself, and wedding invitations were done by Classic Wedding Invitations the “wooden vintage bird”

Hair: Tryst Hair Design

Make up: Arousal and Design

Garden Wedding- Be inspired by love and happiness

Garden Wedding of Jordyn and Mike

Jordyn and Mike might just have you swooning as much as we did when reading their submission about their garden wedding. Their story is absolutely beautiful and inspirational. They say a picture says a thousand words, this couldn’t be more accurate as these photos radiate love, happiness and joy.

What do you do for work?

Mike is a Transport Manager for Siteworx Northland LTD which is an earth moving company. I do work at schools and preschools, teach swimming and work with a health and wellness company called Usana Health Sciences.

Tell us a little about the proposal and the lead up to the wedding?

Mike proposed after 5 months of dating. Mike had a few ideas of how he could propose but I kept guessing them or our friends would ruin them. E.G one of our friends – “Wouldn’t it be so funny if you proposed on the Grand Canyon!” We had a randomly planned beach day with our best friends and their children as well as Mikes daughter. Philippa’s excuse to not walk up Tapeka Point was that she was sick so she will stay with the kids. Tony was walking up the hill with his one year old on his shoulders until he said “Rome just pooped his nappy I’ll have to go back.” Close to the top I said I’ll race you. He ran up and I mostly still walked after I was tired. When I got to the top I could see a beautiful view of the Bay Of Islands and him on one knee. He had an apple in his hand with a hole in it. It was a reference to when I had sent him a joke video from Collage Humor about how engagement rings scam made by jewellers and all you needed to show your love was a simple gesture like an apple. I put my finger through the hole and when the apple opened it was a beautiful diamond ring which I loved. The lead up to the wedding was 6 months and pretty low stress, at the beginning! We both chose 5 bridesmaids and groomsmen. I realised how much time it actually took to plan a wedding however I had a lot of help from my mum and other friends and family.

What was the inspiration behind your wedding theme / vibe?

The theme was like a garden wedding because I found a beautiful venue with a big pond, ducks and a secret garden we took photos in. Then we choose blue and purple as our colours because my favourite colour is purple and Mikes is blue. Mainly what ever we saw and liked I used and it all came together nicely.

Favourite detail and/or moment of the day!

When Vestam, Mikes daughter, came to give me a hug when I met Mike at the alter. That was special as it’s must be pretty different for a child when your dad gets married.

Did you undertake any DIY projects, if so what?

I found a lot on the internet and used the ideas. I did the finger print tree and signs. I also had a friend that for our present she designed our programs and table seating numbers etc.

Any family or religious traditions incorporated into your day?

We are both Christians so we had a pastor marry us. It was special because was my youth group leader when I was at high school and baptized me when I was 18. The ceremony wasn’t super religious we wanted it more relaxed. We wanted the cermony to be short and sweet there was one bible verse read out and prayer before dinner and when we met at the alter..

What does marriage mean to you?

Two people becoming one. Two people committing to work on the relationship for the rest of their life. That you are in a safe place to be your self, share your fears and grow together as much as possible. We also didn’t live together before we got married so it meant I moved in and got used to his snoring.

Talk to us about your dress, where is it from? How long did it take to find?

I first looked around shops and found some that were ok but pretty expensive. I found the style that I liked so then I looked on line. I found one I liked where I could put in my measurements and height and that wasn’t too expensive. I cant remember the website; I’ve even looked to recommend it. I didn’t have my hopes up that I would fit it or that I would like it because I got it online but it fit perfectly and I loved it. I did go to a dressmaker to change the top and the front beading and also the straps. She also made me a veil and added places for me to hold it up. I love it so much it was perfect.

Advice for other couples planning a wedding?

Advice, yes! Have a list of people you want to take photos with and show the photographer and make sure you get them done. EAT FOOD! I didn’t and it made me feel ill until I ate again. Have make up/hair trials. Bring flats to wear for part of the wedding; I wore them at the ceremony so that I wasn’t taller than Mike. Savor every moment and treasure it because the day goes fast. Don’t feel guilty you didn’t get to speak in depth with everyone, they understand. Spend money on a good photographer. Have the best day ever!

Photos: Cameron Thorp – Little Village Co

Cake: Nicky Gabriels, Whangarei

Stationery designer: Trudi Hewitt, Auckland

Hair and Make up: Pip Hagar, Auckland and Dixie Smit, Whangarei

Kylie and Travis - Fulfilling the Wedding Vows ’til death do us part’

Kylie and Travis Wedding Day - Fulfilling the Wedding Vows ’til death do us part’

Here is a submission of beautiful a couple on their special day who hope to fulfil the wedding vows ’til death do us part’. Kylie and Travis Munchenberg married in the Ballroom at Adelaide Town Hall with the company of their loved ones and family who carried the day with love, joy and laughter.

Background:

Travis is an electrician by trade and works as a Project Manager. I worked in marketing for Elders and Vodafone before becoming a mother 4 years ago - I now have 3 young boys (4 years old, 2.5 years old and 8 months old and starting my own wedding stationery business in partnership called Kiki & Poppi.

Tell us a little about the proposal and the lead up to the wedding?

Travis had been planning to propose on our 5 year anniversary and had been planning the day with my mum. He booked flights to Sydney and proposed on the steps of the Opera House and then we had lunch on a boat on the Harbour.

What was the inspiration behind your wedding theme / vibe?

A traditional formal affair to keep in the theme of the venue for the reception which was in the Ballroom at the Adelaide Town Hall but it was important to still have a sense of fun, bringing both sides of our family together for a true celebration and for everyone to not just be present but enjoy themselves.

Favourite detail and/or moment of the day!

There are truly so many… I had written special letters to important people in my life such as my parents, aunty maria and cousin Irene… seeing their faces as they read how they had influenced my life and what they mean to our family is so very special to me. Seeing the joy of my flower girls dressed up as princesses for the day and knowing I had made them that happy was beautiful. The first 10 minutes spent as husband and wife as we travelled by horse and carriage alone from the ceremony to the park talking about everyone and the day ahead was special. But I think my absolute favourite was seeing the joy that our union brought to our parents has stamped happy memories on my heart forever.

Did you undertake any DIY projects, if so what?

Asking a friend to design my invitations meant that I had a hand in everything from selecting the paper to directing the design, plus they were in small card envelopes which I stuck freeze dried rose petals on the base.

Any family or religious traditions incorporated into your day?

We were married Greek Orthodox - thou Travis was raised Lutheran, so the ceremony was definitely something different for his family. The ceremony incorporated many traditional elements such as our Koumbara (Maid of Honour) placing Steffana (crowns) on our heads and crossing them 3 times representing us being joined from this day forward. The Greek Orthodox ceremony first involves an engagement ceremony and then the wedding ceremony so we had service books created detailing each element so Travis’ family could understand the ceremony.

What does marriage mean to you?

Marriage was something that both Travis and I knew from a young age was right for us. Both being blessed with parents from long marriages (my parents were married for 31 years - fulfilling the vow of ’til death do us part & Travis’ parents have today been married for a wonderful 51 years, I believe that subconsciously this influenced our desire to be married.

Marriage for us is about loving each other, being loyal and faithful and pushing one another to fulfill dreams. For example, Travis is so supportive of me working from home even thou it means our dining table has become my office and his time is often spent helping me and I know Travis enjoys fishing and hunting so I support him having time to enjoy his hobbies.

Talk to us about your dress, where is it from? How long did it take to find?

My mother and I headed to Melbourne to search for the perfect dress and whilst we ended up being inspired nothing was perfect so we decided on having it made locally by Calache. It was a soft ivory, with a full skirt and strapless but with crystal strands making straps which draped across the top of my arms. It also had strands of crystals dripping from my waist in between pleats in the skirt.

It had a very long train - approximately 3-4 which was so heavy that it was designed to be stitched on and the cut after the entrance walk at the reception, as it was so heavy hooks wouldn’t hold the weight easily.

Any funny stories in the lead up to or on the day?

On the day my flower girls dresses were very tight… my mother wanted to run them back to the dress maker to have them fixed but I refused to have people running around, missing out on the day. My brave little flower girls sucked it up - literally, for the service so the dresses would zip up and then for the rest of the day walked around looking like little princesses from the front, yet when they turned around they looked like little girls halfway through playing dress ups!

Advice for other couples planning a wedding?

Talk about what each of you want for your big day - then list what’s most important on the list. Often these days budgets play a part in what is and isn’t realistic but by having a list it means you can invest in the ‘must haves’.

Don’t sweat the small stuff… you can never keep everyone happy but if your in-laws really want to have chicken on the menu - add chicken to the menu… Whilst a wedding first and foremost is about the bride and groom, it is also about the joining of 2 families and the reality is that parents have spent much of their lifetime raising the bride and groom so to a degree - it’s nice they get to have what they want too.

The biggest advice I have is shake off the thought that everyone will repeatedly tell you that “It’s only one day…”. It’s a statement I couldn’t disagree more with.

Weddings are sacred and a huge emphasis is placed on them being they are much more than simply one day. Similar to “Rome wasn’t built in a day” - well weddings aren’t planned in a day either. They take months, weeks and endless hours of planning to come together. Whilst planning - mothers and daughters, best friends and family members spend time together, talking, laughing, bonding and creating life long memories. My advice is to soak up each of these moments. The memories created during this time are banked with the memories from your wedding day which you will reflect on years down the track. Each experience is unique to you and yours to hold on forever.

VENDOR CREDITS

Photos - Photography by Belle Photography http://bellephotography.com/

Bridal gown - Calche

Shoes - Alan Pinkus http://www.alanpinkus.com.au/

Rings - CCJ Jeweller http://www.rundlemall.com/directory/c/city-centre-jewellery.shtml

Grooms suit / Grooms Shoes / Groomsmen suits - Myer http://www.myer.com.au/

Ceremony - Cathedral of Archangels Michael & Gabriel

Reception - Adelaide Town Hall http://www.adelaidetownhall.com.au/

Stationery designer - Designed by a friend

Hair and Make up - Pure by Belinda for Make Up.

Music - Zeus

Transport - Meander Coaches http://www.meandercoaches.com.au/

The Perfect Love Story and Fairytale Wedding

If this isn’t the most romantic and magical love story there ever was, than we don’t know what is! The old-school and inspirational couple, Christina Hamlett and Mark Webb share a one of a kind love story. One that is only ever heard of in films, except this one is in fact real, giving all those hopeless romantics out there faith in the possibility of love at first sight.

What you do for work?

I am a full-time writer, media relations expert and performing arts consultant. My credits to date include 31 books, 157 stage plays, 5 optioned feature films, and hundreds of articles and interviews that appear online and in trade publications worldwide. I also do script consultations for the film business (which means I stop a lot of really bad movies from coming to theaters near you) and a professional ghostwriter (which does not mean I talk to dead people). My beloved is General Counsel and Vice President of a California-based insurance company, as well as a gourmet chef and former opera singer.

Tell us a little about the proposal and the lead up to the wedding?

For starters, I actually wished my beloved into existence by throwing a coin into the magic pool at Bath, England in 1994. I specifically asked that a knight in shining armor come into my life upon my return. My very first day back in the office, who should walk through the door but a lawyer/lobbyist named Mark Webb. While waiting for an unscheduled meeting with my boss, he commented, “I hope you don’t think this is forward of me to say so but you have the most beautiful eyes I’ve ever seen.” Coming from anyone else, it would have sounded like a line. He said it with such sincerity, though, that I smiled and said “thank you.” He later told me that in the very moment I said that, he knew everything about me there was to know.

Our ‘courtship’ lasted three years. Since we both worked in a particularly political and gossipy environment, he felt it would be inappropriate to ask someone out in an office where he was doing lobbying. He also assumed I was probably dating Tom Selleck. And so instead we simply talked about anything, everything and nothing every time he came into the office. Additionally, he always brought me a single truffle (in a white box) from See’s Candy (which was right down the street from where I worked).

After three years of chocolate and smart conversation, I transferred to a different office (within the same department) that he would never have had occasion to amble out and visit. And so - remembering the date of my birthday - he called me a week before to see if there were any choice lunch dates available to take me to lunch to celebrate. I told him I was taking my birthday off. “Aha!,” he thought. “If Tom Selleck were really in the picture, why wouldn’t he be taking her off someplace fun? Why is she free on her birthday?” And so he invited me to meet him at The Firehouse at noon and there, over a three-hour lunch, he took my hand and said, “I hope you don’t think this is forward of me to say so but I’ve been in love with you from the first moment we met three years ago. Would you do me the honor of becoming my wife?” And I said yes before we even shared our first kiss.
A year later, we exchanged our wedding vows at Stirling Castle (Scotland) in the same chapel where Mary was crowned Queen of Scots. I first saw this castle during the 1994 holiday and decided that if I ever married again, this would be the place. And besides, nothing less than a castle will do when you marry a knight in shining armor.

What was the inspiration behind your wedding theme / vibe?

Mark has Scottish ancestry and I’m pretty sure I was Scottish in a prior life. Not only did we think it would fun to honeymoon in such a beautiful country but having a very small wedding overseas means that you don’t have to feed 500 of your closest friends at a reception. (We took our wedding party to a lovely Highlands inn for breakfast. That evening we returned to the hotel for wedding cake and champagne.)

Favourite detail and/or moment of the day…

As we were wrapping up with our pictures and leaving the chapel, I found myself musing why there hadn’t been any tourists wandering in during the whole time we were there. Turns out that our driver, Sandy Paterson, spoke to castle security and explained what was going on. When we emerged, we discovered that the entire courtyard had been cordoned off by yellow DO NOT ENTER tape, not unlike that which is used for crime scenes. On the other side of these barriers were squillions of very patient Japanese tourists, all of whom were standing at the ready with their cameras. I’m sure they had no idea who we were but I gave my best princess wave as they snapped dozens of pictures of us. They’re probably still trying to figure this out.

Did you undertake any DIY projects, if so what?

With the exception of the Edinburgh solicitor we retained to walk us through all the legalities, the entire event was DIY. Our friend Barbara Langdon “made” our wedding cake by packing her decorating supplies from home and then purchasing a simple white cake and tubes of frosting the day before. She and my matron of honor, Susan Blondin, expertly assembled the bouquets and boutonnières with flowers procured by Susan’s daughter, Becca, and Becca’s dredlocked Spanish boyfriend, Jose. Since all of us had brought cameras, the shots that fill our trio of wedding albums were taken by the participants themselves. When we returned home after the honeymoon, my talented Aunt Liz designed our pen and ink marriage announcement based on a photo I sent her of Stirling Castle.

What does marriage mean to you?

Marriage is a lasting commitment between two people who also happen to be best friends and support each other’s dreams. It doesn’t require extraordinary acts to keep it sustainable but, rather, the most ordinary things such as holding hands on a walk, going grocery shopping together, reading novels aloud, cooking meals, playing with the dog, and surprising one another with small gifts “just because.” Mark is also the first person to read my latest scripts while we’re having cocktails at the dining room table. Since we’ve both been on stage, we’re adept at doing a wide range of voices and really throw ourselves into our respective parts. On Summer nights when the windows are open, I’m pretty sure the neighbours think there are at least 19 people living with us.

Talk to us about your dress, where is it from? How long did it take to find?

My wedding dress was a Blackwatch tartan, double-breasted with black velvet buttons, collar and cuffs and my only jewelry besides my earrings and emerald engagement ring was a silver and amethyst thistle brooch. I bought the dress off the rack at Nordstrom because I liked the color and, even better, it was on sale. Not only do I still have it but it also still fits.

Any funny stories in the lead up to or on the day?

Interestingly, there were seven people celebrating with us that day. (The fireplaces in the Great Hall at Stirling are so big we could have fit our entire wedding party in one of them.) Only three of the attendees were related to each other and absolutely none of them were related to either of us. (Susan Blondin was my matron of honor; her husband George, doubled as Mark’s best man and also gave me away.) Years later, the only one who is still in our lives was the person we met that very morning – our Scottish driver, Sandy Paterson.

Advice for other couples planning a wedding?

If you’re easily given to stress and are planning to marry overseas, our recommendation is that you get married in a short civil ceremony in your home country first.

Here’s A New Take On An Outdoor Wedding!

If you love being out in nature, then this is the ideal outdoor wedding for you! Judging by these beautiful photos of Tiffany and her partner’s special day, the wedding was filled with happiness, joy and love, while being surrounded by a naturally beautiful scenery. The location of the wedding was situated in Charlotte, New York. The romantic couple decided that an intimate, simple and fuss-free wedding was the best option for them and we couldn’t agree more!

What do you do for work?

I’m the owner of a lifestyle coaching firm, Mason Coaching and Consulting where I work with professional women on work-life balance, self-care, and personal success. I’m a motivational speaker, self-help author, and life coach.

Tell us a little about the proposal and the lead up to the wedding?

My husband and I met in NYC where we were both professional ballroom dancers. We dated for about a year before getting married. Because I decided to move to North Carolina, I knew we had a serious relationship. We planned and decided to have a small wedding at Freedom Park in Charlotte, NC.

What does marriage mean to you?

Marriage is a commitment where two individuals come together in building and maintaining a meaningful relationship. Marriage is a sacred place where two people experience love, adventure, challenges, and happiness.

Favourite detail and/or moment of the day!

Creating our own wedding vows!!!

What was the inspiration behind your wedding theme / vibe?

John and I believe in the importance of simplicity. Even before we got married, we talked about the kind of wedding we wanted to have. We didn’t want to get into tons of debt. We knew we wanted to have a meaningful wedding and that’s what we had.

Talk to us about your dress, where is it from? How long did it take to find?

I bought my dress from David Bridal in Charlotte, NC. It was prefect. I actually bought the dress after trying on a few other dresses. Didn’t take me that long to find the perfect one!

Any funny stories in the lead up to or on the day?

Because we had our wedding outside, the weather was off and on. It started to rain and then the sun came out so this made people start to sweat.

Advice for other couples planning a wedding?

Simplicity is key. Focus on the meaning behind the wedding. Never allow social pressures to get in the way of creating a meaningful experience. Create an experience that you’ll remember, not an experience that you brag about.

Vendor Credits

Photos: Family friend

Bridal gown: David Bridal

Shoes: David Bridal

Ring: My husband’s great grandma

Jewellery/Accessories: David Bridal

Be Inspired - The Ultimate Rustic Wedding!

If you are looking for some rustic wedding inspiration with a relaxed atmosphere, look no further than this wedding! Aaron and Lisa recently tied the knot in one of the most intimate and homely themed weddings. The palpable atmosphere was distinctively captured in the charming photos that commemorated a day filled with love, happiness and good energy, which will without a doubt follow them through their lives together in this new chapter. At Classic Wedding Invitations, we collaborated with Aaron and Lisa to create their wedding invitation landscapes and ensure that it complimented their rustic themed wedding.

What was the inspiration behind your wedding theme / vibe?

Lisa loved the look and general relaxing vibe of rustic weddings while Aaron knew his relatives would love a genuine ‘Australian’ wedding, after visiting the venue, they both were sold.

Talk to us about your dress, where is it from? How long did it take to find?The dress is from a shop on High St called Hills in Hollywood. It was a very comfortable, unstructured dress, without being too casual. It took a little while to find something that I loved, but that also wasn’t ridiculously priced. The store manager was also lovely which was a nice change from the many intense sales people in wedding dress sales.

Any family or religious traditions incorporated into your day?

We had a Christian ceremony in the Garden.

What does marriage mean to you?

A lifelong commitment between two people in love.

Advice for other couples planning a wedding?

Use your bridal party! Don’t do everything yourself, try make planning fun ie take a weekend off somewhere.. Wine also helps.

Did you undertake any DIY projects, if so what?

Yes plenty! The thank you cards, table seating plan, flower decorations, table numbers, display behind the bridal table, isle decoration on chairs, signing board, hair & makeup, photo editing and video editing.

Favourite detail and/or moment of the day…

There was a nice personal touch that made everyones night & that was to create individual thank you cards. Each card had a montage of images dating back to our earliest or fondest memories of our guests. Each card was wrapped up with their name on it and also used as a place card. Yes it took a very long time but when we saw people’s reactions and watching their faces light up it was well worth it.

Any funny stories in the lead up to or on the day?

Wasn’t funny at the time but in hindsight yes. The trifecta of every couple’s worst fears was quickly becoming a reality for ours!
1- It was scheduled to be 43 degrees (second day in a row over 40).

2- Heavy rain was scheduled at the same time ceremony was to commence.

3- Bush fire sparked and was 3kms from the venue.

Thankfully someone was looking after us, it rained after we entered the reception, bushfire was put out and a cool change came in very quickly.

Click here to take a look inside this beautiful wedding.

VENDOR CREDITS:

Photos: Damo Photography (Perth)

Bridal gown: Allure - purchased from Hills in Hollywood

Flowers: Sandringham flowers https://www.facebook.com/sandringhamflowers

Rings:

Engagement ring- Klepners Fine Antique Jewellery

Wedding rings- Patterson Fine Jewellery

Bridesmaids dresses: www.whiterunway.com

Grooms suit: Peter Jackson

Grooms Shoes Windsor Smith

Groomsmen suits: Peter Jackson

Bow ties / ties: Bossini/ Peter Jackson

Ceremony: Emu Bottom Homestead

Reception Emu Bottom Homestead

Catering: Table matters (by Emubottom homestead)

Reception stylist / any decorations / details: Style Republic

Stationery designer Classic Wedding Invitation

Music: Tiaryn Griggs + Band

Cinematographer: Chris Grouse- Scout Films