Location: Sydney, NSW, Australia
Setting: Chapel on the beach and The Queen Victoria Building Tea Room for reception
Wedding season: Summer
The number of guests: 100
How long did the couple plan the event: 1 year
Wedding theme/style: Summer, classic, traditional, timeless elegance.
Christy and Shannon’s love story began in a small pub in Tamworth, a town so tiny that it had only one pub where locals gathered. Their paths frequently crossed, and over a few weeks, their connection blossomed into a deep bond characterized by shared laughter and a profound friendship, ultimately evolving into a romantic relationship.
The bride’s morning was serene and filled with love and touching moments. She spent it in preparation, surrounded by the dearest people to her heart, who shared in her joy and the anticipation of the upcoming wedding. After all, it was one of the most important days in Christy’s life.
On her wedding day, Christy made a deliberate choice for a look that was both simple and classic, a decision that perfectly encapsulated her timeless elegance. With the ever-present chance of gusty winds, she opted for an updo to ensure her hair remained as graceful as her overall appearance.
Christy’s wedding gown, a masterpiece crafted by the renowned Nicole Milano in the heart of Italy, breathed life into the dreams she had nurtured for her special day. It was more than just a dress; it was a manifestation of her vision for a day filled with elegance and enchantment. “The dress chosen was the first dress I fell in love with and had envisioned from the beginning,” says Christy
To complement this enchanting ensemble, the bridal bouquet was an actual work of art. Adorned with proteas, flannel flowers, iconic Australian blooms, and delicate white starflowers, it was a living testament to the unique beauty of their love story. These blossoms added an exquisite and distinctive touch to the bride’s overall appearance, infusing her with a radiant aura of individuality.
Instead of the traditional first look with the groom, Christy opted to have a first look with her father. She was eager to capture his emotions at the moment he laid eyes on her in her wedding dress. It was indeed a moment of pure delight and love. The joy in Christy’s father’s eyes was palpable, radiating happiness and love.
Shannon, an Australian military pilot, received the unique privilege of donning his uniform for their wedding day. What adds an intriguing twist to this is that Christy’s grandfather had a similar military background when he tied the knot and wore his uniform on his wedding day as well. This allowed the couple to capture a special portrait reminiscent of their grandparents’ wedding attire.
The ceremony unfolded in The Coast Chapel Nurses War Memorial at Little Bay, and the officiant was Christy’s cousin, Pastor Tim. The couple chose “Moon River” as the song for Christy’s chapel entrance, a melody that held a special place in Shannon’s heart as he had often played it on the piano for his late grandfather.
As Christy walked down the aisle, arm in arm with her father, Shannon looked at her with such happiness in that solemn moment that he couldn’t contain his emotions. It was an incredibly touching and heartfelt moment.
Being a person who is profoundly attentive and careful to family ties and traditions, the bride decided to give back to her great-grandfather by choosing this chapel. Her great-grandfather’s wedding was traditional and classic, and on that day, they had a beautiful stained glass pictured behind them. This way, she could incorporate her great-grandfather into her big day.
It was important for the bride that their wedding was captured by a professional photographer with a great love for people and family moments. And here’s how Christy describes the work of Anastasia and Larry from Serenity Photography:
“I could not highly recommend Anastasia enough, as well as her lovely partner Larry. They went above and beyond on our day. After reading previous reviews, I realized this is a recurring theme. Anastasia was such a leading light on my wedding day. At times, it was overwhelming; however, Anastasia’s calm presence helped immensely! She will always go above and beyond for her clients and provide her services with kindness and warmth. Anastasia perfectly encapsulated our day with the photos taken and ensured they were perfect”.
The Queen Victoria Building Tea Room choice held special significance as well; many years ago, her parents celebrated their wedding reception at this very venue. Shannon had admired the beauty of the building from a young age, and a memorable high tea experience with their mother at the age of ten cemented the dream of hosting their wedding reception at the same venue alongside the future partner they had yet to meet. Held a special place in Christy’s heart. And its architectural beauty had captivated her from a young age. Adding a unique layer of significance to their wedding date, Christy and Shannon, who shared the same birthday, decided to celebrate their love on this day.
Shannon and Christy have always shared a profound love for the great outdoors in Australia. Their passion for bushwalking and their deep connection to nature served as the inspiration for incorporating Australian Native flowers into their wedding’s floral arrangements.
The wedding reception unfolded in an atmosphere of love and warmth. There were tears of joy, heartfelt congratulations, and laughter. All of these elements combined to create an evening that was incredibly warm and heartwarming.
The wedding cake was designed in a classic style and adorned with flowers that echoed the wedding decor.
Christy’s homage to her parents’ wedding was heartwarming. The DJ played the same music that had graced her parents’ celebration decades ago. It was a testament to the timeless appeal of 80s classics.
The moment when Christy tossed her bridal bouquet added a touch of fun and carefree laughter to the wedding, enhancing the celebration.
Advice from the couple:
• Take it slow. Enjoy every minute leading up to the wedding, including all the planning, because it goes so quickly, and you will miss it all once it has finished! It is also essential to take some time for self-care. Do not complicate your life by over-committing to work or events leading up to the wedding if you can, and this will reduce your stress for the big day. Most importantly, listen to each other with empathy.
PHOTOGRAPHER Serenity Photography | CEREMONY The Coast Chapel Nurses War Memorial at Little Bay | RECEPTION The Tea Room Queen Victoria Building | FLORAL Flowers By Melly B | MUAH Inspiring Makeup Artistry | BRIDAL GOWN Briony Leigh Bridal | CAKE Chaos & Couture Cakes By Nadia | ENTERTAINMENT Upbeat Social Event Agency
