Location: Queensland, Australia
Setting: Ceremony – garden; Reception – marquee
Season: Spring
How long did the couple plan the event: 18 months
The number of guests: 70
Wedding theme/style: English garden party.
Victoria and Jake met in the vibrant streets of London. Before meeting, Victoria had just completed her studies and was ready to embark on the next chapter of her life. Jake had moved from Australia to London, bringing the spirit of adventure and a love for new experiences.
They met by chance and discovered a shared love for tasty food and good conversations. Their shared passion took them to Homeslice, where they enjoyed large pizzas. Often, with chili oil dripping down their faces, they laughed and shared stories late into the night, cementing their culinary connection as the foundation of their blossoming romance. As their relationship grew, they moved to Sydney, where the sun and sea matched the warmth and joy they found in each other. Eventually, they settled in Melbourne, which they’ve called home for 5 to 6 years. Their love for travel, dining out, and pampering their two dogs reflects their joyful and indulgent approach to life.
The lovebirds’ wedding embraced an English garden party theme with an Australian twist. It was inspired by the whimsical beauty of traditional English gardens, accented with the decadence of Bridgerton. The theme featured live violinists and breathtaking floral displays. It was described as an “enchanted garden meets modern classic,” blending elegance and natural beauty.
We wanted a wedding day that honored not only us as a couple but also all the wonderful people who make us who we are and are a part of our community in Melbourne. Neither of us has family here; our friends really are our chosen family.
The wedding was filled with unique detailes that made the day truly special. Victoria’s jewelry was custom-made from her late grandmother’s engagement ring and another cherished ring she had inherited. Adding a deeply personal touch, she was gifted a small token with her father’s thumbprint, which she attached to her bouquet, symbolically having her father walk her down the aisle.
Victoria wanted a classic yet modern look for her makeup and hair, ensuring that nothing would overpower her stunning dress. She chose a relatively simple glam wave hairstyle, with the front pieces elegantly pulled back from her face. Her makeup was soft, glam, and glowy, featuring signature laminated brows and subtle winged eyeliner.
The outdoor deck, with its breathtaking views of the forest, became the ideal spot for the bridal party to prepare and relax before the ceremony. They sipped on champagne, toasting the day’s celebrations and the beautiful journey that had brought them together.
The wedding dress, a bespoke creation by Holly Butler, perfectly encapsulated the bride’s vision of blending tradition and modern elegance. Every aspect of the dress was crafted meticulously, ensuring it reflected her style and personality. Holly Butler’s exceptional craftsmanship brought Victoria’s dream dress to life, creating a unique and stunning gown.
This was a fantastic opportunity and experience to create something entirely custom. I adored the whimsical nature of floral dresses with applique. I also loved the traditional look of French lace and leaned very strongly towards the structure of Vivienne Westwood dresses with the exposed boning. Somehow, Holly managed to make all three of these aspects happen. Every tiny detail I could have asked for was considered and done with exceptional skill and craftsmanship.
A unique feature was the pair of matching lace gloves with raw edges, tiny buttons, and finger hooks to ensure they stayed in place. This added an extra layer of sophistication and refinement to Victoria’s look. The dress also included an overskirt, allowing the bride to transition seamlessly from ceremony to reception. When removed, it revealed hidden details like buttons down the back and additional lace appliqués.
Jake opted for a striking white tuxedo jacket, expertly tailored to highlight his frame. Paired with sleek black trousers, the contrast created a sharp and sophisticated ensemble. A black bow tie, neatly folded pocket square, and shirt with subtle black buttons added a cohesive touch to the overall look. His choice of patent leather shoes provided a polished and stylish finish, reflecting light with every step he took.
The ceremony began with a unique and memorable moment as the groomsmen entered to the sound of a live violinist playing the F1 theme tune. It was a delightful surprise for the guests and added a touch of fun to the occasion’s solemnity.
Victoria looked like a fairy in an enchanted garden as she walked down the aisle, radiating elegance and grace in her custom-made dress. The couple’s vows were heartfelt, with each word resonating deeply with their friends and family.
The bridesmaids wore elegant black dresses, each with a unique style that reflected their personalities while maintaining a cohesive look. One interesting detail was their bouquets, which were composed of white flowers, with a unique selection for each bridesmaid. This added a personal touch and visual interest to the bridal party’s ensemble. The variety of white blooms created a beautiful and harmonious contrast against their black dresses. The groomsmen complemented them perfectly in classic black tuxedos, adding to the overall formal and timeless wedding aesthetic.
The couple’s photoshoot was a beautiful moment amid the wedding festivities. Set in a serene forest, the lush greenery and towering trees created a magical backdrop. French lace and black-and-white tuxedo added timeless elegance, standing against the greenery. The photographer, Leah Cruikshank, captured their love perfectly, showing tender embraces and gentle kisses in serene images.
We wanted the reception to be outlandishly beautiful, with exceptional food, drinks, and service, with unique touches, like a gelato cart, but ultimately just a dinner where everyone felt catered for, looked after, loved, and could truly enjoy themselves.
The reception was a magical affair, set under a clear marquee that allowed the beauty of the night sky to complement the warm, intimate atmosphere created within. The space was adorned with fairy lights, casting a soft, enchanting glow that added to the romantic ambiance. The tables were elegantly decorated with white linens and filled with lush, whimsical floral arrangements in soft pastel hues of pink, peach, and lavender. Each table setting was meticulously arranged, featuring delicate glassware and simple yet sophisticated tableware, ensuring an elegant dining experience for the guests.
The couple’s first dance was a highlight of the evening, performed under the twinkling lights and surrounded by their loved ones. The intimate and joyful moment was beautifully captured, showcasing the deep connection and love between Victoria and Jake.
Adding a fun and playful touch to the reception was the photo booth, where guests could don quirky props and take memorable snapshots. The booth was a hit, with guests of all ages enjoying the opportunity to let loose and create lasting memories.
The floor opened to friends and family, who joined in with exuberant energy. The music played on, creating an electric atmosphere where guests danced freely and joyously. From slow, heartfelt dances to lively, upbeat moves, the dance floor was a testament to the love and joy that permeated the entire day.
Advice from the couple:
• If you don’t have the wow moment with a dress – it’s not that you’re just one of those brides who won’t – you just haven’t found the dress. I would truly recommend exploring the custom option.
• Book a videographer – reliving the actual moments through film, not just photos, is unbeatable.
• Enjoy spending time together—and with all the people you love. You’ll never have all of those people in one room again.
• Buy the cheap wedding heels! They will get destroyed!
BRIDAL DESIGNER Holly Butler | VENUE The Bower Estate | CATERING Ridgeway Group Catering | PHOTOGRAPHER Leah Cruikshank | VIDEOGRAPHER Mitch Birchall | MUAH Taylor K Makeup, Justin Lancas | FLORIST Maddie Jayde Floristry | VIOLINIST Lauren Bradnam | CELEBRANT Andrew Michael | MUSICIAN Kyle Bryant | PHOTO BOOTH Timeless Events Co | GELATO CART Wheel & Spoon | RENTALS The One Day House
