Together Journal #41 Print

COVER The real wedding of Natalie & Kevin (p.118) in the Loire Valley, photographed by Zara Staples.

The beginning of a new year has a way of resetting the world with clarity and intention. It is also the moment many couples choose to begin their wedding journey. We call it the engagement high season, when a new wave of readers arrives with fresh ideas, open hearts and an eagerness to create a celebration that reflects who they are.

To those newly engaged and discovering Together Journal for the first time, welcome. Issue 41 is rich with creativity, thoughtful artistry and design-led perspectives from around the globe. The real weddings in this edition are nothing short of mesmerising. We had such joy uncovering new styling ideas, fresh fashion moments, beautiful locations and countless thoughtful details.

Italy remains our most sought-after destination for weddings, with Puglia in particular suiting our laid-back yet elegant aesthetic. It is a style that translates beautifully to the vineyards and countryside of Australasia. Each celebration offers its own distinct perspective, making this collection one of our most inspiring yet.

Within these pages, you will find an exceptional collection of real weddings and editorial features from respected figures shaping modern weddings today. Menswear specialist Chris Dobbs and his talented team at Working Style share the craftsmanship behind their contemporary tailoring. Skintopia’s experts offer a grounded and intelligent approach to event-ready skin. We also celebrate a significant moment for bridal boutique owner and designer Natalie Rose, who unveils her first couture collection under her own name. Years of refining gowns for leading international labels, combined with a lineage in dressmaking, have resulted in a collection that feels assured, luxurious and deeply considered.

We also hear from floral designer Mel of Cecilia Fox, who offers a glimpse into her forthcoming book and the mindful practice that informs her floral artistry. The iconic Dear Vincent collective speaks candidly about their photographic philosophy, with their breathtaking work showcased through the wedding of Monica and Jad in Provence. It is a reminder of why they are regarded among the world’s best.

Jewellery designer Alla Bóhdan of BÓHDAN Diamonds shares the journey that led her into fine jewellery. Her refined, design-led aesthetic and deeply personal approach are qualities brides cherish. I was first drawn to BÓHDAN for its distinctive beauty, and when I met Alla, we connected instantly. So much so that I worked with her to create a milestone ring to celebrate the tenth anniversary of Together Journal. You can read more about this on page 38.

This issue’s fashion editorial is captured by long-time collaborator Tom Hollow of Hollow & Co., whose instinct for mood and detail translates seamlessly into elevated fashion imagery. We shot this feature in our very own neighbourhood, where the Together Journal warehouse and office have been based for years. It took the opening of Casabella, a beautiful and elevated new event space, to make us look more closely at what was right on our doorstep. It is the perfect setting for a chic inner-city wedding.

And for those dreaming beyond the wedding day, our curated series of Fiji’s finest luxury resorts highlights idyllic destinations for honeymoons, elopements and intimate celebrations.

Whether you are newly engaged or returning to our community, we hope this edition inspires you to create a wedding that feels unmistakably your own. It has been a joy to curate, and we are delighted to share it with you.

Aroha nui,