What started as a chance encounter at a South Melbourne rooftop bar ended in a love story woven into the lush greenery of Gardens House and the historic elegance of The Trust. Captured beautifully by Erin Neale, Alanna and Mona’s wedding wasn’t just about the vows—it was about celebrating their journey. From a playful fake proposal on St. Kilda beach to a day that brought 200 guests together for a celebration of culture, romance, and unforgettable moments, every detail—floral arrangements and heartfelt traditions alike—told the story of a love that’s as unique as the day itself.
Location: Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Style: Elegant, timeless, family-oriented
Number of guests: 200
Setting: Ceremony – garden, reception – restaurant
Season: Summer
Alanna and Mona’s love story began with a chance meeting at The Albion in South Melbourne. Alanna recalls, “We thought we were talking to famous rugby players, but Mona turned out to be a Unicorn player!” The night was filled with laughter, dancing, and a spontaneous late-night adventure that ended at St. Kilda beach, where Mona dropped to one knee for a playful fake proposal. Four years later, on August 12, 2023, Mona returned to that same spot, standing in the rain with a bouquet from their favorite florist to ask Alanna to marry him for real. “I couldn’t stop crying and laughing all at the same time. It was a dream come true!” Alanna shared. That unforgettable moment set the stage for a wedding as heartfelt as their journey together.
Bridal Morning
Alanna’s morning was as dreamy as she had imagined since childhood. As Head of PR and Marketing at Maticevski, she worked closely with the designer to create a gown that embodied elegance and movement. The custom ensemble featured a halter-neck top and a sheer tulle skirt inspired by archival Maticevski pieces.
Her accessories were just as thoughtful: open-toe heels by Aquazzura, a sculpted orchid clutch by Maticevski, and jewelry by Olivia Bond. A sleek bun styled by Dimitri Kyvetos and glowing makeup by Yasmin Latife completed her bridal look. Alanna’s bouquet, featuring dahlias and lily of the valley crafted by Flowers Vasette, honored her mother and Mona’s mother, adding sentimental depth to the day.
Ceremony
Set against the botanical backdrop of Gardens House, the ceremony was intimate yet grand. Guests were welcomed by a 4-string quartet from Hey Jack, playing modern classics. Alanna walked down the aisle with her parents as the quartet performed “Kissing You” by Des’ree.
Mona, dressed in a tailored suit by P.Johnson, donned a floral lei to honor his Samoan heritage. The ceremony, officiated by Mona’s sister and brother-in-law, held special significance as the reading chosen was the same passage used at Alanna’s parents’ wedding. The couple’s heartfelt vows left guests visibly moved, and their exit to “I Just Called to Say I Love You” by Stevie Wonder was a joyful conclusion.
"I don’t remember hearing the music as I walked as I was so overcome with emotions and couldn’t wait to meet Mona at the end of the aisle."
Cocktail Hour
The cocktail hour unfolded in the gardens, where Cisco Tavares and his band entertained guests with live music. Under the Australian summer sun, guests sipped champagne and mingled by a flower-adorned bar featuring lush arrangements of hydrangeas, dahlias, and soft pink roses by Flowers Vasette. The atmosphere was relaxed yet sophisticated, perfectly setting the tone for the evening ahead.
"The dress code for our wedding was Black-Tie/Traditional Samoan. We felt this dress code covered both of our families and I absolutely loved seeing all the traditional clothing in vibrant colors with floral patterns."
Private Moment
Before the reception, Alanna and Mona took a quiet moment alone in the enchanting gardens. Their photographer, Erin Neale, brought her expertise in documentary-style photography to every moment, ensuring nothing was missed. Erin’s approach seamlessly captured the natural flow of emotions, movements, and interactions throughout the day.
Alanna and Mona’s connection is beautifully reflected in her work, particularly in the striking black-and-white images that add a timeless elegance to their wedding album. From candid smiles to heartfelt embraces, every frame tells the story of their love in an authentic and artistic way.
"We loved that the area was private to us and that we had full access to the property and the surrounding gardens."
Decor & Setting
As the reception began, Alanna and Mona greeted each guest personally, foregoing a traditional seating chart in favor of a warm and intimate welcome. Alanna’s parents accompanied them, escorting guests to their assigned seats, which added a personal touch that set the tone for the evening.
The reception at The Trust, a historic venue in Melbourne’s CBD, radiated glamour and sophistication. Its polished wood floors, marble accents, and architectural charm provided the perfect backdrop for the couple’s vision of elegant refinement. Three long tables were draped in crisp white linens, adorned with floral arrangements in soft blush, burgundy, and white tones, complemented by lush greenery.
Each guest found their place with custom calligraphed place cards by Sam Pauletto, styled to align with the color theme of their table. The stationery, which featured illustrations of dahlias and lily of the valley, brought continuity to the floral narrative of the day. Ambient lighting from brushed brass mushroom lamps created an inviting glow, perfectly complementing the warm and welcoming atmosphere the couple had envisioned.
Reception
Dinner quickly turned into a lively affair as the band delivered a roaming performance, encouraging guests to join in the fun. The impromptu dancing, even before entrees were served, filled the room with laughter and joy, setting the tone for an unforgettable evening, which continued with touching speeches from Alanna, Mona, their parents, and close family members, sharing heartfelt memories and words of love.
The wedding cake, created by Miss Lady Bird, was a sculptural masterpiece with cascading sugar flowers wrapping around its three tiers. Featuring flavors of raspberry, coconut, and white chocolate, it was as elegant as it was delicious, providing a sweet centerpiece for the couple’s reception.
Guests also enjoyed late-night McDonald’s cheeseburgers served in custom “McSchwalger” packaging—a playful nod to Alanna’s new surname. As the evening came to a close, the florist, Flowers Vasette, transformed the floral arrangements into bouquets for guests to take home, ensuring the celebration’s beauty lingered long after the last dance.
A highlight was the powerful Haka performed by Mona’s family and friends, showcasing the deep emotion and pride in their cultural heritage. Alanna then surprised Mona with a traditional Samoan dance, the Siva, choreographed by his sister-in-law. Her graceful performance, a tribute to Mona and his family, concluded with him joining her on the dance floor, followed by the Taualuga, a vibrant family dance that brought both families together in a heartfelt display of unity.
"It was such a joy to see the culture present throughout the day and through the performance. The energy, power and emotion that is given to the Haka is incredible and it is a gesture that will stay with me forever."
Advice from the couple:
• Listen to your heart and find what it is as a couple that you love the most to lead your decision-making on the elements for your special day. It really is the most magical day of your life!
PHOTOGRAPHER Erin Neale | VIDEOGRAPHER Moon & Back Co. | FILM PHOTOGRAPHER Daniel Roccioletti | CEREMONY VENUE Gardens House | RECEPTION VENUE The Trust | DRESS & CLUTCH Maticevski | SHOES Aquazzura | RINGS Olivia Bond | SUIT P.Johnson | FLORALS Flowers Vasette | CAKE Miss Lady Bird | STATIONERY Sam Pauletto | CARS Always Classic Cars | RENTALS Dann Event | STRING QUARTET Hey Jack | CELEBRANT & MC Shura Taft | ENTERTAINMENT Cisco Tavares | WEDDING MENTOR After the Rock
