Tell us a little about yourselves, what you do, what you love, what is unique about you and your relationship:
Justin and I first met 10 years ago at a typical “after work” drinks venue in Brisbane. After a little cat and mouse, we went on our first date and it was all over from there.
Justin told me a story from his childhood about saving his beloved dog Lily back when his family lived overseas in Boston. The dog had chased an animal out onto the property’s frozen lake and fallen through the ice, he jumped in after her without hesitation and somehow they survived without hyperthermia. From that moment I knew he was a crazy dog lover like me, and someone that is willing to risk it all for a four-legged companion is the kind of man I wanted to be with.
6 years ago, we packed up our lives in Brisbane and made the choice to start fresh in Melbourne. Exploring and making this city our home has made us closer than ever and we’ve hit some real milestones – bought an apartment, became parents to our own fur child (Lucy the spoodle), got married and now are so excited to be expecting our first child together next year.
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:
After we got engaged we were super overwhelmed and didn’t know where to start. All we knew were three things – we wanted to get married in regional Victoria, in a Church setting and somewhere that felt intimate. That’s when we came across Churchill Events and tick, tick, tick our search was over.
Churchill is located in the town of Taradale, in regional Victoria, and is a unique event space with all the features of an old Church (originally built in 1858) – grand timber ceilings, timeworn walls, and beautiful detailed stained-glass windows. The two magnificent ladies who run the venue also helped out with the florals and coordination on the day. As we weren’t using an event planner, having one vendor take care of multiple elements was ideal.
Tell us about your main outfits:
The venue was where I took inspiration for finding the perfect dress. The moody and romantic location called for a gown that was whimsical and effortlessly chic. When I first tried on this dress at the bridal store, my mother and bridesmaids were in tears, and at that moment, I knew it was the one. The beaded floral bodice exuded vintage glamour but was still modern with an open v neckline. While the flowing chiffon skirt was flattering and dramatic, it also made twirling feel like I was in a Disney movie.
Justin opted for a classic dark navy tuxedo with bow tie and the snazzy patented shoes to match. He looked like a real prince charming – and what man doesn’t want to feel like James Bond on their wedding day.
What were some of the most memorable/unique moments from the day:
We were warned ‘never work with children or animals’ on our big day, but so glad we ignored the advice as it made for one of our favourite moments of the day. Something that truly bonded us over the course of our relationship was our love for animals so we knew we had to incorporate our dog Lucy into the wedding. She ended up being the ring bearer and when our celebrant asked for the rings, little Lucy came running (admittedly not directly) toward us with the rings in a small silk pouch attached to her custom floral collar. The photos we have with her are some of our favourite pictures from the day and it felt complete having her there – even if she did steal the show.
Any advice for other couples planning to spend the rest of their lives together:
Trust your team! You’ve just spent how many hours, days, months carefully planning and selecting vendors – so trust they will do everything in their power to stick to the plan. Form a connection and chose vendors who share your vision because we believe that professionals in this industry truly love what they do and they want your dream day as much as you do.
Venue + Styling: Churchill Events | Videographer: Moon & Back Co. | Photographer: Tess Follett | Celebrant: Megan Thompson | Entertainment: The White Tree | Welcome signage/table number hire: Luxe Decals | Flora: Prunella Flowers | Catering: Spoonful Dining Atelier | Cake: Miss Ladybird Cakes | Menu/place cards: Laura Elizabeth Design | Dance lessons: The Next Step Co. | Car hire: RR Classic Car Hire | Bridal party accommodation: Ellis House | Dog sitter/trainer: The Pawfectionist | Jordana’s Gown: Hera Couture purchased from Bluebell Bridal | Justin’s Suit: MJ Bale | Rings: The Diamond Guys | Jordana’s shoes: Jimmy Choo | Justin’s shoes: Aquila | Bridal hairpiece: Jeanette Maree | Custom earrings: Finer Rings | Makeup: Doll Face Nathalie| Hair: Hair by Neveen | Personalised PJ’s: Midnight Mischief | Jordana’s fragrance: YSL – Mon Paris Couture | Justin’s Fragrance: Penhaligons – Mr Sam | Bridesmaid attire: Bec + Bridge | Groomsmen attire: MJ Bale
