Emma and Richard’s winter wedding was all about creating a day that felt authentically them — elegant, intimate, and filled with meaning. From the thrifted silver candlesticks to the vintage-inspired oyster station, every detail reflected their thoughtful and unique approach. They poured their hearts into every moment, ensuring everything was stylish and personal. And thanks to Joel and Courtney Films, their love story was captured so beautifully that they’ll relive the magic of their day every time they watch it.
Location: Maleny, Queensland, Australia
Style: Classic, elegant, intimate
Time of planning: 11 months
Number of guests: 45
Setting: Estate
Season: Winter
Emma and Richard first crossed paths as teenagers at a high school party. While their initial meeting was brief, it marked the beginning of a ten-year-long-distance friendship that blossomed into love. Over the years, they bridged the gap between continents, exchanging visits between London, Melbourne, and Sweden.
When COVID-19 brought Richard back to the Sunshine Coast, it felt like the universe finally aligned, and the two found themselves in the same place for the first time in years. Knowing Emma’s dream of a proposal at her favorite Barnes Pond in London or during a quiet Thursday at home, Richard found a way to combine both. On Thursday morning, while they enjoyed breakfast in bed, he showed her a video he had filmed at Barnes Pond during a recent trip. As the video ended, he got down on one knee with a ring in hand, turning their ordinary morning into an unforgettable moment of love and devotion.
Bridal Morning
Emma’s bridal look perfectly combined tradition, sentiment, and modern elegance. Her gown by Chosen By Kyha had gorgeous draped sleeves and a chapel-length Mantilla veil that paid tribute to her Italian roots and Richard’s Portuguese heritage. She made the look even more personal with meaningful details — a vintage brooch passed down through her family, her grandmother’s engagement ring, and a rosary gifted by her grandfather.
For makeup, she kept things simple and natural, going for a ‘French-girl’ vibe with softly blushed berry cheeks and lips, perfectly matching her everyday style. She also decided to go with a simple but classic hair-style by Evelyn Parsons, long flowy curls to compliment her veil and headband.
For the reception, she swapped her veil for a stylish Prada headband and added a faux-fur jacket to stay cozy. Even her earrings had a special story — Emma made them herself during a jewelry class with her bridesmaids. Her bouquet from Mondo of white calla lilies tied it all together with a touch of understated elegance.
Groom's Fashion
Richard looked effortlessly sharp in a classic black tuxedo from Institchu, but the sentimental details really stole the show. He honored family traditions by wearing his grandmother’s watch, his grandfather’s diamond pin and gold-and-pearl studs passed down through generations.
His custom Duke and Dexter loafers made the look even more personal, featuring their wedding date, Emma’s family name, and a tiny ace of hearts motif — a playful nod to a tattoo he shares with Emma and her two closest friends.
Ceremony
Held on the helipad of Maleny Manor, the outdoor ceremony was surrounded by breathtaking views and the crisp winter air. “We wanted the ceremony to feel elegant and organic, so we incorporated long, flowy ribbons and florals that blended beautifully with the natural setting,” shared the bride.
The couple exchanged heartfelt vows under the open sky, with their intimate guest list and handpicked celebrant, Hayley Hart, creating a warm and relaxed atmosphere. As they sealed their promises with a kiss, rose petals rained down on them, adding a magical touch to the moment. Their videographer and photographer captured this scene beautifully, preserving the joy and romance for years to come.
After the ceremony, the immediate family joined Emma and Richard for a private toast — a few quiet moments to celebrate together before the garden party began. “Our guests told us it was a beautiful ceremony with plenty of laughs and even a few tears! It felt exactly the way we had envisioned,” the couple shared.
Cocktail Hour
The garden party had lively and laid-back vibes. Guests sipped on classic cocktails like Elderflower Fizz and Pimm’s No. 1, while Emma’s favorite — a beautifully styled oyster station — stole the show. She spent months before the wedding hunting for silver serving ware in thrift stores to give it that perfect vintage touch.
There was no shortage of fun, with lawn games and a playlist of 50’s and 60’s era love songs keeping everyone entertained. The whole scene felt effortlessly elegant, with soft white florals and a relaxed vibe, all glowing under the golden light of the setting sun.
Private Moment
In the middle of all the excitement, Emma and Richard, who share a deep love for film photography, found a quiet moment to sneak away and be together. It was the perfect chance to capture some stunning shots, many of which became highlights in the incredible wedding film by Joel and Courtney Films. Those quiet, intimate moments felt so special and truly reflected the magic of their day.
Beyond hiring a talented photographer and videographer specializing in film photography, the couple wanted to add a personal touch to their memories. Richard brought along his large format film camera to take a portrait of Emma — a thoughtful gesture that made the moment even more meaningful. It was a peaceful pause after the ceremony and a memory they’ll cherish forever.
Decor & Setting
Emma and Richard’s attention to detail shone through every aspect of their wedding decor. The black-and-white theme was seamlessly integrated into the signage, napkins, and bows, while lush green and white florals created a harmonious, organic feel. Inside the Manor, two long tables adorned with silver candlesticks and candelabras sourced from thrift shops lent a cozy and intimate vibe. Candlelight and soft florals completed the elegant setting, making every guest feel special.
“We didn’t want to get too caught up in current trends, though with Emma having a soft spot for bows, we decided to include these within the styling of the ceremony, reception tables & our champagne tower,” added the groom.
"We really enjoyed working together during the planning process and really felt that the final look of the day was a perfect blend of our two personalities.”
Reception
The reception carried the same cozy and intimate vibe as the rest of the day, starting with Emma and Richard’s grand entrance under a wave of cheers and music from their loved ones. At the heart of it all was a two-tier chocolate ganache cake, lovingly made by Richard’s sister. They also brought the fun with a champagne tower, pouring the first glasses together.
Heartfelt speeches from family and close friends filled the room with laughter and tears. “We’re both very close with our families, and their words meant so much to us. The speeches were incredibly special — not just on the day but as memories we’ll treasure forever,” the couple shared.
Their first dance to Mitski’s “My Love, Mine All Mine” was a tender and emotional highlight, setting the tone for a night of fun and celebration fueled by espresso martinis and pure joy. Later, Emma and Richard stepped away with Lillie Hamblin and Joel and Courtney to capture some stylish nighttime shots, blending the charm of film photography with the precision of digital.
The evening ended with a heartwarming family tradition: guests wrapping Emma and Richard in crepe paper under the Crows Ash tree while they danced under stars. It was a unique and unforgettable farewell to a day filled with love. “Our last dance was one of the most memorable parts of the entire day,” the groom reflected.
Advice from the couple:
• The biggest piece of advice we could give is to stay true to yourselves during the planning process — make decisions with your everyday style in mind, find vendors who align with your vision, and try not to follow the trends if they’re not in line with what you would usually gravitate towards.
• Also, marry your best friend! It makes the process so much easier and more fun!
VIDEOGRAPHER Joel and Courtney Films | PHOTOGRAPHER Lillie Hamblin Weddings | DESIGN Lovebird Weddings | VENUE Maleny Manor | FLORALS Mondo Floral Designs | MUA Sian Howard Makeup | HAIR Evelyn Parsons Salon | DRESS Kyha Studios | SHOP Sphere Bridal Gallery | SHOES Tony Bianco | VEIL Mi Bridal Veil | HEADBAND Prada | SUIT Institchu | SHOES Duke & Dexter | RINGS Morgan and Co Jewellery | CELEBRANT Hayley Hart | DJ Spinit DJs | PHOTOBOOTH Photobooth Hire Sunshine Coast | GUESTBOOK Glad You Called
