Today’s brides celebrate with style, substance and meaningful connection.
Gone are the predictable nights of plastic tiaras, awkward dares, and one too many tequila shots. Today’s brides are trading chaos for connection, choosing celebrations that feel stylish, meaningful, and undeniably chic. The modern bachelorette is less about strippers and hangovers and more about curated experiences, intentional details, and quality time with the girls who matter most.
Think private dinner parties with beautifully set tables, wellness mornings with yoga and matcha, hands-on workshops like floral design, and weekend escapes filled with laughter and the right amount of alcohol (or not). It’s about dressing up for each other, capturing timeless photos, and creating memories that actually last. These gatherings feel elevated but personal, focused on friendship, storytelling, and celebrating the bride’s next chapter in a way that reflects who she truly is.
Gabriella Smith’s bachelorette was the perfect example of this shift. Thoughtfully planned and effortlessly chic, her weekend centred on connection, style, and shared experiences. There was no pressure to overdo it, just intentional fun, beautiful moments, and genuine bonding. It proved that the best celebrations don’t have to be wild to be unforgettable. Quality time is in. Excess is out. And honestly? TJ loves this new era of bachelorettes.
Your recent bachelorette felt considered and fashion-forward but still had a beautiful, authentic, and heartfelt vibe. Can you tell us about the location and what made it feel so special?
I really wanted a house large enough for my 20 friends to sleep, and special enough that we could spend the whole time on the property and not have to leave. My girls found the perfect property, with a beautiful old Queenslander, surrounded by the hills of the Byron hinterland. It was the perfect, intimate space to spend time with my closest friends.
Every detail felt cohesive, yet intentional and relaxed. Who was behind the styling and overall planning, and how did the vision come together?
I made a moodboard for what I wanted the overall vibe and dress code to be, and my girls went above and beyond to make my Pinterest dreams a reality!
From a creative perspective, what styling elements or details stood out most to you on the day?
The fashion felt central to the experience. Talk us through what you wore and how you approached your bachelorette wardrobe.
The brunch tablescape was styled to perfection, with every detail considered, down to chic butter and pearled pears!
Everything I wore over the weekend, I already owned in my wardrobe, as the styling was just so authentically me! I love wearing white, lacey, feminine and floaty fabrics.
My lace dress is a Michael Lo Sordo that I purchased two years ago, knowing I would one day wear it for my bachelorette! I then layered a Miyako silk Corset over the dress, which I also have owned for years.
How did it feel stepping into that environment, surrounded by your closest friends, with everything so thoughtfully curated with you in mind?
It was honestly the most surreal moment of my life. There’s something incredibly emotional about walking into a space that’s been created purely to celebrate you, especially by your girls who have known you through so many seasons of life. Every detail was so authentically me; it was so special.
Bachelorettes are often about energy as much as aesthetics. What were the standout moments or memories that you know will stay with you forever?
My group of girls are all so close and comfortable with each other, which makes for many hilarious moments over the weekend, but a standout moment was us all jumping in the pool at midnight and staring at the stars!
There is a growing shift towards more personal, design-led bachelorette celebrations. Why do you think this approach is resonating with modern brides?
I think modern brides are craving authenticity, and designing a celebration that reflects their personality and relationships.
What advice would you give to brides-to-be when approaching their own bachelorette?
Let go of what you think it should be, and just do whatever feels authentic and fun for you.
Photos and content from and by Gabriella Smith’s
