DANIELLE + CHRIS by Petite Visuals

Tell us a little about yourselves, what you do, what you love, what is unique about you and your relationship:

Chris and I met about eight years ago, at the birthplace of many great romances – the pub, where I ran past him (18 at the time) calling out ‘Chris Sweeney you’re hot!’. Growing up in the same area, we crossed paths occasionally over the years but never really knew each other that well, until almost a decade later and after admittedly being on each other’s radar for some time, Chris finally slid into my ‘DMs’ and asked me on a date. From here, we were hooked – so much so, that we went on three more dates that same week! We dived into the deep end from that first date forward and as they say, the rest is history.

Tell us about your special day, was there a specific theme or style? Tell us a little about the setting, the styling and some of your favourite details:

As an event coordinator myself, I had so many spiralling ideas that I wanted to bring to life, with almost every detailed meticulously planned in my mind (and on my Pinterest). While all of those elements can certainly add value to a wedding, when it got down to it, it became surprisingly clear that the most important element for the two of us was the opportunity to celebrate our love with the people who matter most to us!

Both coming from big families, finding a venue that suited our aesthetic and our guest numbers was a big priority and we were so excited when we stumbled across Mitchelton Wines (thankfully, through the oh-so-talented Bottlebrush Films). The property seamlessly combined all of the elements that we had been hoping to find (and even some we hadn’t) – stunning vineyards, a moody underground cellar, beautiful accommodation and most importantly, delicious food and wine!

With such a beautiful venue we kept the styling minimal, with Ame (Raven and the Rose) working her magic and behind the lens, the amazing Morgane (Petite Visuals) captured everything so perfectly!

Tell us about your main outfits:

Danielle: As I may have already mentioned, I have been wedding-obsessed for many years now, which made the dress-buying process both easy and exciting.

Armed with a collection of images screenshot on my phone, I went straight to One Day Bridal to try on a range of styles (knowing all the while that the Lennox gown was leading the charge in my list of favourites). I tried on several dresses – mostly as I thought, when else would I have the chance? – before trying on the aforementioned design. I knew instantly that it was the one! When it came to accessories, I kept it simple – comfortable white heels and a delicate pair of earrings and necklace from By Charlotte.

Chris: On-board with Danielle’s Pinterest vision, I opted for a timeless and sleek blue suit – found after only a few shopping adventures. This was paired with a pair of brown RM Williams boots and a wedding band designed by Lott Studio.

What were some of the most memorable/unique moments from the day?

The day (really the whole weekend) was filled with more fun, laughter and love than we had even imagined, so it makes it hard to pinpoint just a few of our most memorable moments!

Some standouts would have to include our first look moment in the charming underground cellar when we snuck away for our sunset photos and on the way back to join the party – from the back of the golf buggy – we saw all of our guests drinking, laughing and enjoying the evening!

The laugher over dinner (and speeches) and the ‘pant-splitting’ moves on the dance floor were also some favourite moments from the night.

Any advice for other couples planning to spend the rest of their lives together?

Work out what’s important to the two of you, invest in those things and don’t get caught up in the rest. Remember that it’s a celebration of your love for each other, shared with those you love most!

Photographer: Petite Visuals | Ceremony + Reception location, Catering + Beverages, Planner + Style: Mitchelton Weddings | Videographer: Bottle Brush Films | Celebrant: Victoria Pearson | Entertainment: Melbourne Entertainment Company | Flora: Raven and the Rose | Paper prints and invites: Joy | Bride’s attire: Chosen by One Day, Lennox Gown | Bride’s ring:  Kirstin Ash | Bride’s earrings and necklace: By Charlotte | Bride’s shoes: Tony Bianco | Groom’s attire: Uberstone | Groom’s ring:  Lott Studio | Groom’s shoes: R.M.Williams | Makeup: Dusk Bridal | Fragrance: Byredo | Bridesmaid’s dresses: Bec + Bridge | Groomsman’s attire: Uberstone