Jemma & Isaac by Matt Elliott

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

Jemma was born and raised on the Mornington Peninsula and is now the Assistant Director of Goodstart Brighton, an Early Childhood Education Centre.

Isaac is originally from regional South Australia, moving to Melbourne early in his childhood and now works as a Sales Manager for Quest Apartment Hotels. We met online in June of 2014 and those early, playful conversations certainly set the tone for our future together. We are extremely loving, open and honest; laughter is the main driver behind our successful relationship as we continue to make each other’s lives better every day. We have a shared love of good food, good wine and great company, all of which lead to our choice of Baxter Barn as the wedding venue. 

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…

For our special day we wanted a relaxed environment, good food & good wine, with all our family & friends there to celebrate with us. Our theme was a rustic garden winter wedding; Baxter Barn is set on a 34 acre property on the Mornington Peninsula with a beautiful lake, forestry alongside the driveway, a gorgeous manicured gardens and heritage listed Sages Cottage. The venue offered so much that we felt limited styling would enhance the natural environment around us. 

Tell us about your main outfits:

Jemma: I had an image of what I wanted for my wedding dress, how wrong I was: I had been looking at stores online and stumbled across Anna Campbell, her dresses were just stunning. Anna Campbell was my first appointment and really the only one I needed. When I tried on my dress I got a feeling that I never wanted to take this dress off. Because the dress was so sparkly, I just needed a simple chapel length veil to compliment my dress perfectly. Isaac: When we first viewed Baxter Barn I was struck by the relaxed and rustic vibe; a traditional three piece suit just wouldn’t fit. A Navy Blazer & Vest from Politix soon became the centre piece and after some trial and error with Country Road chino colouring, the vision began to come together. Smaller touches such as the woollen bow-tie from the Otaa added a little texture to the outfit and AFL Socks from Happy Socks added something personal to perfectly round things out.

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

Jemma: Our first look: it was a very magical moment that Isaac and I got to share with just our bridal party. Isaac: The continuous cacophony of noise throughout the night and in to the evening; laughter, loud chatter, singing and plenty of drinks clattering. It was truly a joyful occasion. 

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

Be open with each other, honest (even when you think you shouldn’t), laugh continuously and be patient.

Photography: Matt Elliott | Ceremony and Reception location: Baxter Barn | Celebrant: Abbie Frew | Bride’s gown: Anna Campbell Bridal | Bride’s fur: Unreal Fur | Groom’s suit: Politix, Country Road and Otaa | Bride’s ring: Michael Hill Jewellers | Groom’s ring: Glamira | Bride’s shoes: Nine West | Groom’s shoes: Florsheim | Bride’s jewellery: Francesca Jewellery | Hair and Makeup: Michelle O’Connell | Bride’s Fragrance: Dolce & Gabanna – The One | Groom’s Fragrance: Hugo Boss – Just Different | Bridesmaid’s outfits: White Runway | Groomsmen’s outfits: Politix, Country Road and Otaa | Hire: A Day to Remember | Flora: Flowers By Dolly | Catering and Beverages: Going Gourmet | Cake: Regnier Cakes