Friendship blossomed into romance for high school friends Catherine and David many years later, culminating in a romantic proposal in Bali with a vintage blue sapphire ring that belonged to David’s grandmother.
When it came time to plan the big day Catherine’s sound organisational skills held the couple in good stead. “I’m super organised so I was ready months in advance,” said Catherine. “I love making lists and ticking things off, so planning a wedding came quite naturally to me.”
With the couple both sharing a passion for design and horticulture their wedding was themed around these two elements, creating a “vintage garden wonderland” at Melbourne’s Fitzroy Town Hall.
Upon entering the hall guests were greeted by a red tandem bicycle brimming with blooms and a “hooray” sign.
Rustic vintage wooden tables overflowed with crystal dishes, vintage books, fresh blooms, high vases filled with silver birch, gingham print tea towels as napkins, vintage side plates with bone handled knives – and other odd vintage bits and pieces.
The entire room had a canopy of festoon lighting and strings of colour, there was a lounge area that served as a whiskey station with vintage mismatched armchairs, lounges and floral cushions which had screen printed images of Rosie (the couple’s beloved French bulldog).
There was a vintage dessert and cheese dresser that was topped with a delicious selection of sweets and cheeses and was stacked with vintage plates and individual cheese boards.
Of the transformation of the venue Catherine said, “the styling was simply breathtaking and exactly what we wanted. It captured our personalities and impressed us (and our guests) beyond belief.”
“The stage had a large banner, which was hand painted with the words “Drop it like it’s hot”, which encouraged everyone to dance! And it definitely worked!” said Catherine.
“My father made a touching speech, followed by my sister who paid homage to Dave and me as a couple in a very clever and caring manner,” Catherine said.
“Dave’s brother, Matt gave a very funny typical best man speech, followed by Dave who thanked guests and thanked me for becoming his wife. We felt very blessed the entire evening.”
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Gown: Gwendolynne | Photographer: Dan Marsh, Chris McConville, Jesse Hisco | Ceremony and Reception Venue: Fitzroy Town Hall available through Ed Dixon Food Design | Reception Caterer: Ed Dixon Food Design | Reception Decorations: Simply Georgeous Occasions | Bridal accessories: Richard Nylon Millinery & Bridal | Groom’s and Groomsmen’s Attire: Roger David | Bridesmaids’ outfits: Lisa Ho | Flowers and Floral Decorations: Flower Jar | Celebrant: Justin Morely | Hair: Jayson Wood | Music: Jai Spence