Tropical Brides March 2017

ABOUNDS THIS MONTH! LOCATION Thala Beach Nature Reserve SETTING STYLED BY

By Design Wedding & Events MODELS DRESSED BY Devine Bridal FLOWERS BY Floral Edge HAIR & MAKE-UP BY Tokunai Hair PHOTOGRAPHY BY Photoholicstudio MODELS Bride Ana James Flower Girl Malena Drnzik-Garcia Page Boy Liam Ferrero

Our annual wedding issue is crammed with inspiration and celebration, which isn’t really that surprising considering that Cairns is one of the top p l a c e s f o r D e s t i n a t i o n w e d d i n g s i n t h e c o u n t r y.

E a c h y e a r, m o r e a n d m o r e p e o p l e a r e c h o o s i n g t o stay in our beautiful backyard to hold their Big Day – from helicopter rides to the reef, photo shoots under waterfalls to beautiful fresh produce made into mouthwatering food! A robust wedding industry has grown in the region looking after locals and visitors alike.

Check out some of the wedding Apps we found to help you stay organised and some very useful tips a n d t r i c k s f o r y o u r w e d d i n g d a y, p i c k i n g y o u r v e n u e and even (possibly – no promises!) keeping the kids calm and well-behaved.

Enjoy this edition and congratulations!

CairnsLife 2 Magazine

KARLIE KLOSS

SWAROVSKI CAIRNS 63 ABBOTT ST CAIRNS QLD

THE NEW COLLECTION Starting at S99

the name synonymous with bridal fashion in North Queensland for decades. Irene is continually researching and introducing new styles and labels. In store you will find an extensive range of bridal gowns chosen from both Australian and International designers in a relaxed, comfortable, fun and friendly environment. Irene and her team of bridal consultants work to find the perfect dress for every bride regardless of size, shape, budget or style of wedding. Devine Bridal also stock a wide range of bridesmaid dresses, mother of the bride, formal wear, bridal accessories and more.

 Upcoming Event!!!

April 2017 - Devine Bridal would like to invite all Brides to Be to attend a Preview Event of the Essense of Australia new Bridal gown collection. Please contact the store or follow our facebook page for more information.

Photo by Photoholic Studio

NAUTILUS AVIATION – FOR THAT ONCE IN A LIFETIME EXPERIENCE, EVERY TIME! Nautilus Aviation offers one of the best ways to ‘enjoy’ and ‘see’ the world’s natural wonders just outside our doorsteps! Departing daily across its bases in Queensland and the Northern Territory, Nautilus Aviation have a range of scenic flights and secluded tour packages perfect for honeymooners! Specifically, ‘spoil her’ with an island or sand-cay getaway, ‘spoil him’ with a HeliFish adventure and ‘spoil both her and him’ with helicopter transfers to the exclusive, Orpheus Island Resort accommodating just 28 lucky guests!

Of course, tours can be specifically designed to your liking, incorporating reef, rainforest and the great outback!

To many locals, Nautilus Aviation is known as the company with the “red helicopters”. Nautilus Aviation houses a fleet of luxurious red Airbus helicopters – seating up to 6/7 passengers in a single aircraft and fitted with leather seats, air conditioning and state-of-the-art safety systems. A stand out feature of the H120 and H130 is the Fenestron tail rotor – an enclosed tail rotor making them the quietest helicopters on the market, perfect for younger and more sensitive ears.

The company’s impressive fleet of 25 diverse helicopters enables Nautilus Aviation to provide a premium service across all areas of operation – tourism, VIP transfers, aerial, commercial and industry work. A variety of aircraft, impeccable safety record and partnerships with a number of the region’s top tourism operators, makes it possible for Nautilus Aviation to deliver unrivaled experiences for local families and visitors at competitive prices across its bases in Queensland and the Northern Territory!

Ph: 07 4034 9000 www.nautilusaviation.com.au

WA N T T O C REAT E A UN I Q UE A N D M E M O R A B L E MA RRI A G E P RO P O S A L ? L O O K I N G F O R A “ W O W ” W EDDI N G G I F T ? WH Y N O T L I T ERAL LY S W E E P YO UR L O VED O N E/S O F F T H EI R F E E T W ITH N A UT I L US AVI AT I O N ’S L UX URY H E L IC O P TE R S ?

Nautilus Aviation began with a single Cessna 208 floatplane in 1993, operating from a historical World War II Hangar at Townsville airport. Its purpose, to transfer guests amongst the pristine waters of the Great Barrier Reef to beautiful coastal destinations including the secluded hideaway of Orpheus Island. In 2012 the floatplane was replaced with the company’s first helicopter and the start of one of the largest and most versatile fleets in the northern regions of Australia. Today, after 24 years in the helicopter Industry, Nautilus Aviation has 61 staff and 25 state of the art piston and turbine powered helicopters across its bases in Darwin, Cairns, Townsville, and Horn Island in the Torres Strait!

WEDDING GIFT & PROPOSAL IDEA: HeliFish Adventure, QLD

Whether an experienced or novice angler, this fishing adventure, complete with magnificent inflight views is second to none! Flying over untouched terrain, anglers will fish in locations accessible only by helicopter, including lagoons and rivers full of fishing potential. With helicopters based out of Cairns - Townsville Horn Island, our trips are individually tailored to ensure the ultimate fishing experience for any enthusiast.

All fishing equipment, lunch and beverages are supplied, all that is required is a camera and a sense of adventure!

WEDDING GIFT & PROPOSAL IDEA: Sand Cay Getaway, QLD

Take that special someone on a secluded sand cay experience and feel the thrill of flying over the picturesque coral-studded sea before landing on Vlasoff Cay, a pristine sand cay in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. In absolute seclusion, beach comb on the pure white sand, swim straight off the beach into pellucid blue-green waters and enjoy a gourmet picnic hamper and refreshments!

WEDDING GIFT & PROPOSAL IDEA: Great Barrier Reef Scenic Flight, QLD Experience the sheer size and beauty of the Great Barrier Reef and gain a true appreciation of one of the seven natural wonders of the world.

This flight includes views of beautiful Green Island and Fitzroy Island and, on low tide, Vlasoff Cay and Upolu Cay. Sightings of manta rays, turtles and other marine life are not uncommon on the reef scenic flight and in the winter months there is even a change of spotting whales.

FOR THE ULTIMATE PROPOSAL, WEDDING GIFT, WEDDING TRANSFER, UNFORGETTABLE LOCATION FOR WEDDING PHOTOS, ‘EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE’ AND CALL THE TEAM AT NAUTILUS AVIATION ON 07 4034 9000 OR VISIT WWW.NAUTILUSAVIATION.COM.AU

Cairns Floral Supplies, Exclusive distributor of Bolsa Flora products in Australia and New Zealand Bolsa Flora is a stylish and refreshing alternative to the original bridal bouquet, and at the same time offers great practicality Be a part of the bridal flower revolution by using high quality bases High quality foam rolls and bases that allow any design technique available to your imagination

Wholesale floral supplies, wedding and gift packaging products. Open to the public.

Shop 21, 223 Hartley Street, Portsmith P 07 4052 1868 • E info@cairnsfloralsupplies.com.au www.cairnsfloralsupplies.com.au

CairnsLife 12 Magazine

TEA LILY Tea Lily, on trendy Grafton Street in the heart of Cairns, specialises in women’s fashion and jewellery which make you feel gorgeous, romantic and irresistible.

The well-known boutique is run by Trish Keur and her daughter Ella Hughes, and their newest little helper, Lacey Valentina, who seems set to continue in her mother and grandmother’s stylish family tradition.

Samantha Willis’ stunning bridal collection gleams from tall glass cabinets dripping with tiaras, pendants, rings and bangles for all occasions.

Interesting gift ideas are scattered throughout the store. With everything from complete children’s outfits through to Mother of the Bride ensembles, Tea Lily seems to have something for almost every taste from the elegant to the eccentric!

The eclectic collection has been lovingly selected

by Trish and Ella, and everything from books to bridal is artfully arranged, with colours and textures creating a unique space which so many loyal customers have come to find something special.

The experience is only heightened by their exceptional customer service and extensive product knowledge, plus that added extra that can’t be learnt – an eye for design.

Gorgeous Clothing Romantic Giftlines Irresistible Accessories

CairnsLife 13 Magazine

Pacific Hotel

Cairns

From a small intimate dinner for 30 to an extravagant banquet for 200 guests, the Pacific Hotel Cairns is the ultimate wedding venue.

interactive BBQ buffets, couples can choose from a beverage package or run a bar tab for the evening. All menus can be customized to suit any taste and budget.

Located on the Esplanade overlooking the picturesque Trinity Inlet, the boutique hotel has a contemporary feel with a tropical ambiance, befitting a bygone era.

Conveniently located within minutes of the casino, the Reef Fleet Terminal, the Esplanade Lagoon and the restaurant precinct, the iconic 4 ½ star Pacific Hotel is the ideal base for visitors who wish to explore the exotic and spectacular attractions of Tropical North Queensland.

The beautifully refurbished function rooms include the Harbour Room with floor to ceiling windows offering 180 degree views over the city and surrounding parklands. Both the Pacific Ballroom and the Harbour Room open onto the unique Poolside Terrace, a perfect place for the ceremony, pre-dinner drinks or more intimate reception dinners.

Offering a variety of menu styles including standing cocktail, buffets, traditional plated menus, share platters, and the popular

All 176 guest rooms have private balconies, with the higher rooms offering sweeping views of the mountains or harbour and surrounding parklands.

With a professional, dedicated team on hand to ensure that your event is a memorable occasion, you will have peace of mind knowing that you can relax and enjoy your special day.

U N IQU E V EN U ES • E XQU I S I T E F O OD • I M P E CC A BL E S E RVIC E 07 4 0 4 4 1 8 8 7

s a le s @ p a cifichotelcairns .com

p acificevents cairns .com.au

CairnsLife 14 Magazine

Tropical Catering & Events Tropical Catering & Events (TCE) is your prefect partner when looking to hold your wedding reception at one of the unique offsite venues in or around Cairns.

Whether overlooking the Trinity Inlet from the historical Cairns Cruise Liner Terminal, enjoying the unique architecture of the Tanks Art Centre in the Botanical Gardens or stomping it up in the middle of a cane field, TCE will work with you to create a custom event that you and your guests will never forget.

An award-winning catering company, TCE sources the freshest local produce to create innovative menus, and has catered many of Cairns signature events including the Cairns Amateur Race Week Gala Dinner and the highly successful 2014 ATE Farewell Function, earning Tropical Catering & Events a coveted

Australian Event Award for Best Achievement in Catering.

With a range of menus available to suit all budgets and tastes, our goal is always to source the freshest ingredients from local suppliers.

Whether it be grain-fed beef, fresh caught barramundi, bio-dynamic ice cream, exotic fruits or bush tucker ingredients of indigenous Australia, we will work with you to customize the menu to reflect your style.

Our Executive Chef, Volkmar Frielingsdorf oversees catering for Tropical Catering & Events, the Pacific Hotel and Bushfire Flame Grill. He combines a meticulous eye for detail with a deep passion to continually innovate. The result is stunning cuisine that reflects fresh local produce while always

keeping the client’s vision at the forefront.

In addition to providing high quality cuisine and first class service, Cathy Alexander, TCE’s dedicated Events Manager has more than twenty years experience staging “wow” factor weddings in and around Cairns.

When you partner with TCE you will have peace of mind knowing that the team will work tirelessly with meticulous attention to detail to bring your vision to fruition.

Tropical Catering & Events has recently secured exclusive catering rights to several local off-site venues including the Australian Armour and Artillery Museum and Hinterland Aviation Aircraft Hangar offering conference and corporate event organisers the chance to create exciting, new dining experiences for their delegates.

Tropical Catering & Events has built a stellar reputation delivering impeccable dining experiences to Cairns most prestigious signature events. Whether for 100, 1,000 or more, explore our innovative menus or let our inventive chefs customise a culinary adventure inspired by your personal story and vision.

ph: 4044 1896 • eventsmanager@tropicalcateringcairns.com.au • tropicalcateringcairns.com.au CairnsLife 15 Magazine

Belinda is a professional creator in 0400 769 784 mobile and salon services are available info@cairnsbridalhair.com.au

all aspects of hair styling . Having

Find me on Pinterest! www. starting her career in exclusive pinterest/timeless1978 Follow me on Facebook: Sydney salons and learning from www.facebook.com/pages/ some of the best stylists in the Cairns-Bridal-=

business, Belinda has a sharp eye for current and classic trends tailored to compliment each client. She now brings her vision, expertise, expertise and friendly approach to Wedding hair and Makeup via her boutique business, Cairns Bridal Hair to Cairns.

cairnsbridalhair.com.au 0400 769 784 • info@cairnsbridalhair.com.au

FREE TRIAL SPRAY TAN FOR ALL BRIDES-TO-BE www.waxroom.com.au Cnr Pease & Anderson Street MANUNDA 4032 5888

10 Charlotte Close WOREE 4033 0929

Campus Shopping Village Faculty Close SMITHFIELD 4057 4888 www.waxroom.com.au Cnr Pease & Anderson Street MANUNDA 4032 5888

10 Charlotte Close WOREE 4033 0929

FAST AND PROFESSIONAL.... AND A SHADE FOR EVERY OCCASION

Campus Shopping Village Faculty Close SMITHFIELD 4057 4888

Bridal Hair

Your Wedding Day is the most “Important Day Of Your Life” it is the Pinnacle of the last two years of intense and Insane Planning with meticulous attention to detail that has Swallowed your Life as you knew it. You are a changed person, every thought is about The “W” Day from the minute you wake with thoughts of shall I have Flowers or a Veil or a Tiara, Hair Up Or Down or maybe Both or one of each, to the time you pass out on the couch in a sea of Rose scented homemade “with Love” Wedding Invitations whilst re-arranging the seating plan for your Reception again for the 20th time to keep Aunt Mildred Happy…On a serious note, This will be your Day, Your Wedding Day, to be enjoyed and Cherished. It is very easy to overindulge in every decision creating Stress, so our advice is to seek out the Professionals who can help to Plan your Day with you, can make your decisions seem easy and relieve any pressure and Stress.

WEDDING HAIR is a huge Decision and will be your Crowning Glory on your Day, as such planning must take place.

A Wedding Hair & Make-Up Specialist who can create a Design Brief based on your details and desires and have the knowledge and ability to produce a cohesive Design of your Dreams for your Day Dresses, Hair, Make-Up, Flowers, Colours, Location, Reception all of these elements to combine and Bring The Most Important Day Of Your Life, Your WEDDING DAY Together.

For all the Beautiful Brides – As You Like It

Flowers are our thing!

It’s what we do.

Walking into our store is a delight to the senses with an abundance of fragrances, colours and textures.

Floral Edge is a Port Douglas boutique florist specialising in wedding flowers, events, corporate flowers and as an every day florist and gift store. We are the only florist shop front in town. Our passion, attention to detail and dedication is why our business has flourished in the beautiful spot of Port Douglas. Floral Edge has been in port Douglas for 6 years, and have just recently had to move location to a larger shop to help cater for the increased weddings and events.

Owners Tamika and Candace are sisters from country Victoria, who had a vision of opening a store full of flowers, and hand made gifts the are unique and one of a kind that incorporated all of the family talents sawing, crocheting, creating jewellery and most important Flowers! Tamika is an award winning florist and has represented Australia with her floristry skills, from the first year of her apprenticeship she has shone with her creative passion, winning a string of awards all over Australia.

PH- 0740996094

w w w. f l o r a l e d g e . c o m . a u

WEDDING

iWedding Deluxe With this all-in-one app, you can make to-do lists, budgets, guest lists, and more.

It even includes a live countdown to your wedding day. You can also keep all your favorite inspiration in one spot, adding photos from your camera. (P.S. There’s a special pin-code feature that lets you “lock” pics of your wedding dress from prying eyes.)

The guest-list feature is super-detailed: You can track guests’ RSVP status, record their meal choices, and even make seating charts for your reception and rehearsal dinner. The app notes that it supports same-sex weddings — because everyone should be able to have their wedding plans at their fingertips.

WedPics If you want a wedding app to keep all of your photos in one place, but don’t need to create a wedding website, WedPics is a good option. You can create a simple wedding profile and link your registries and hotel information, but it doesn’t have the details you’ll find from The Knot or Appy Couple. Still, if all you want to do is share and download pictures, that’s not a bad thing.

You can invite wedding guests to the app using a custom code, and they can see the photo albums you’ve created, as well as upload their own images. Plus, you can also order photo prints right through WedPics, which will help make your wedding photo album a breeze.

WedSocial by WeddingWire If you want a more organized way for your wedding guests to share photos — other than just searching your hashtag on Instagram — WedSocial is a great option. (Plus, guests will need a code to access your wedding on the app, so you won’t have strangers seeing all your photos.)

In addition to sharing photos, the app can serve as a one-stop shop for your wedding guests.

You can add your events calendar and information about local hotels into the app, through an integration with your free WeddingWire website.

Pantone Studio One of the first wedding-planning decisions you’re likely to make is what your color palette will be. After all, with all the choices out there, “I like blue” is just not going to cut it. Pantone Studio will let you do just that and more. Did you find the perfect shade of, say, periwinkle bridesmaids’ dresses? Take a photo, and the app will identify that exact color, matched from its library of over 10,000 hues — and show you others to help you out with your

palette-creating.

Perhaps the key part of the app is that it also helps you create a palette sourced from your Instagram or Pinterest accounts. Pantone Studio also makes it easy to share your creations on social media and via email (so you can update your mom, sister, and fiancé ASAP every time new inspiration strikes).

A basic version is available for free download, and there’s a paid monthly subscription model with more advanced features.

TaskRabbit

All you need to do is post a job you need help with along with an hourly rate — then, wait for someone to bid on it. You’ll be happy to cross one more thing off that checklist.

Style Me Pretty Style Me Pretty has long been a favorite website for brides looking for inspiration, but now the company has a wedding app, too.

The app is great for inspiration — it features everything from gorgeous realwedding photos to stories about real brides. Plus, you can save real-wedding pictures you love, whether that’s a black-and-white photo you want to recreate or a cake design you want to show your baker, all in one place on your profile.

The app also lets you follow specific vendors, like caterers and photographers. If you’re looking for local vendors, or just following vendors whose style you like, there’s no shortage of inspiration. And if you do want to get in touch with local vendors, you can send them an email right through the app. So if you see photos you love, you can contact, say, the florist featured in the photos right away.

More Wedding Apps at www.refinery29.com/best-apps-for-brides

CairnsLife 20 Magazine

TaskRabbit lets you outsource your tasks — say, bouquetmaking or buying last-minute supplies — to (backgroundchecked) people in your area. “Taskers” can also help you do your initial research, which makes the planning process so much easier, and even help with those superinvolved DIY projects.

PERSONALISED

Put your own stamp on the commitment you’re about to make to each other!

CONSULT THE STANDARDS

Even if you’ve decided against conventional vows, it’s still helpful to use them as a starting point. Ask your celebrant to give you some examples of vows that would normally be used in your venue, and build from there.

GO IT ALONE?

Decide if you want to say separate vows, or if you’d rather each recite an identical, all-encompassing vow that you compose together. If you choose to make it a joint task, pen a mutual vow that you both take. Or, create a fill-in-the blank model for each one of you to personalise.

MAKE IT PERSONAL

Use special memories to look at the past and think about the future. Try to incorporate a meaningful anecdote about what brought the two of you together. Mention how you met, your first date, the proposal, and anything in between.

SOMETHING BORROWED

Look for inspiration from the myriad of love songs and sonnets available. From Shakespeare to Sinatra, there’s plenty of inspiration and quotable material out there. Jot down words and phrases that capture your feelings, and use them as a springboard.

SHORT & SWEET

Your wedding vows are the most important element of your ceremony, but don’t make them too long. No matter how gorgeous your prose, your audience may start to squirm if you ramble on. A good rule of thumb is to keep them to approximately one minute.

CairnsLife 21 Magazine

WEDDING

OF

AND

10-12 6-8 2-4 bride

MONTHS TO GO

groom

MONTHS TO GO

MONTHS TO GO

§ Set the date

§ Finalise music for the reception and book

§ Finalise guest list

§ Decide on a budget that both families are happy with

§ Order your wedding gown and veil – or start on dressmaking

§ Send out wedding invitations

§ Choose your official wedding party and emcee

§ Finalise and order your bridesmaid dresses.

§ Book hair and make-up artists for you and your bridal party

§ Select a handful of ceremony and reception locations and arrange a meeting with the venue’s wedding co-ordinator to talk through packages and pricing

§ Finalise flowers with the florist and décor with the venue/wedding planner.

§ Consider booking dance lessons for the bridal waltz

§ Book the honeymoon! Consider arranging a relaxing massage on arrival

§ Finalise the menu with the caterers/reception

§ Get started on your gift registry

§ Start putting together wedding booklets or church ceremony readings

§ Book transportation (don’t forget the getaway car!

§ Finalise the gift registry, include choices in every price range

8-10 4-6 1-2

§ Start an inspiration scrapbook, or Pinterest board, and file all clippings of things you like in it - dresses you like, decorative ideas, cake designs, floral arrangements....

EVERYTHING!

MONTHS TO GO

MONTHS TO GO

§ Buy accessories for you and the bridesmaids

MONTHS TO GO

§ Finalise guest list and send out or email ‘Save the Date’ cards

§ Finalise the groom’s and groomsmen’s suits

§ Pick up your wedding bands

§ Start the search on your dress and bridesmaid dresses

§ Book a hair and make-up trial

§ Book a hotel room for your wedding night.

§ Send final guest list to reception place and confirm any vegetarian meals or special meal requirements for guests.

§ Start researching ideal honeymoon destinations § Book an appointment with a florist to talk about flower arrangements and pricing § Book the reception/church/celebrant and run through menu options with the caterer § Select a handful of wedding photographers and videographers and book an appointment to look through their portfolio and talk through pricing

§ Organise pre-marriage counselling - a lot of churches strongly recommend this when booking the church.

§ Research and order wedding invitations, table place cards and bonbonniere § Order your cake (and taste samples!) § Organise taste testing for the menu § Order your wedding bands and engraving. § Confirm dates for your hen/bucks night and be clear with what you’d like (and not like!)

CairnsLife 22 Magazine

§ Book beauty appointments – wax, eyebrow shape, facial (no extractions!), etc. § Confirm pick up address and time with transportation § Book a hair appointment to have a trim and colour/treatment § Pick up the groom’s suit and groomsmen’s suits

1 3-4 3

There’s so much involved in planning a wedding, and the very first step is to work out WHEN you are getting married – then there’s WHERE to hold the ceremony and reception, and WHO to invite and finally HOW to make it all come together! Finding the perfect dress

MONTH TO GO

for you, writing vows and practicing the First Dance… there’s a lot

§ Start writing your vows and wedding speech.

to get through. Follow this checklist on what to do when, and you’ll

§ Buy gifts for your groom and the wedding party.

enjoy stress-free preparations, right up to your special day!

WEEKS TO GO

D AY S T O G O

§ Meet with your photographer to discuss shot list and photo locations.

§ Deliver all wedding favours, place cards, and liquor to the reception venue.

§ Start putting together church booklets, nametags and other stationery required.

§ Have a spray tan and your eyelashes tinted

§ Confirm honeymoon arrangements.

§ Chase up any guests who haven’t RSVP’d. § Write up a time schedule for the day (including important contact numbers) and send to all parties involved in important parts of the day (ie: emcee, priest/celebrant, photographer, DJ, wedding co-ordinator, drivers).

§ Have the final dress fitting – be sure to wear all jewellery, shoes, and correct underwear. § Prepare a list of all payments required on the day, put in envelopes and leave someone in charge of handing out to the appropriate people on the day.

THE NIGHT BEFORE YOUR

Special Day! § Get a manicure and pedicure.

§ Treat yourself and your groom to a relaxing massage. § Have a wedding rehearsal (if relevant) with the bridal party and church/celebrant. § Have an early night!

CairnsLife 23 Magazine

SHINE ON YOUR BIG DAY I M E KA WE LLN E S S & L A S ER CL I NI C To be a picture-perfect bride and have that glowing look, you want your skin and your smile to look their absolute best.

While the lead-up to your big day can be stressful you can still look pictureperfect with the help of the specialists at Imeka Wellness & Laser Clinic.

Imeka co-owner Olivia Mills and her experienced team are experts at helping you look revitalised, relaxed and simply glowing, as you want to feel on one of the most important days of your life.

Because they specialise in beauty, they know everything you need to do to achieve the perfect look. They have a huge range of services such as advanced skin therapy, teeth whitening, cosmetic injectables, make-up, waxing, tanning and more.

To make it affordable to look your absolute best, they not only offer competitive prices but are currently running two must-have specials.

They are offering microdermabrasion advanced skin therapy that will refresh tired and dull-looking skin for $55 and a simple and effective teethwhitening special of just $99 for one person or $150 for two.

The clinic, formerly known as Naughty Nails and Beauty, undertook it a transformation late last year when Olivia and her partner took over the business. Since then they’ve added more staff, renovated the clinic to increase its treatment rooms to four, added services and renamed it to Imeka.

“Imeka means my ‘world my place’ in Hindi, which is what we want our clients to feel when they come here so they can relax, be comfortable and feel good about themselves when they leave,” Olivia added.

Imeka Wellness & Laser Clinic 5/176 Mulgrave Road, Westcourt Ph: 4041 0219 wwwimekabeauty.com.au

Tall, tanned and youthful may be the media’s version of the ideal body, but we don’t believe beauty is something that belongs to other people.

Cosmetic Injections • Advanced Skin Treatments • Tanning Massage • Hair Removal including IPL Hair Reduction Teeth Whitening • Body Therapies • Skin & Facials

CAIRNS LIFE MAGAZINE SPECIAL OFFER $99 - TEETH WHITENING (NORMALLY $299) $55 - MICRODERMABRASION (NORMALLY $110) CairnsLife 25 Magazine

5/176 MULGRAVE RD WESTCOURT QLD 4870 PHONE 07 4041 0218 www.imekabeauty.com.au

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Lend a certain unpredictability to any and all occasions, and weddings are no exception!

We cater for small to medium size weddings including engagement

cakes, bridal showers, hens and bucks nights and the big night itself.

Every couple wants their wedding ceremony to run smoothly, from the dress rehearsal to their vows, so it makes sense to think ahead and be prepared. Most couples have relatives and friends with children, or maybe even children of their own. Sometimes these little ones become flower girls and ring bearers, making a charming addition to the wedding party. Here are some tips for keeping them on track!

Spend time with them

A child loves to be the centre of attention, but today is not the day. In order to make them feel special, take a few pictures with them. Tell them how cute they look. Give them a special gift just as you would the rest of your wedding party.

Ensure they are fed

N

OP E

P. 4036 0694 Mt Sheridan Plaza e@bigpond.com E. jackleysbakehous

7D AY S

When little ones get hungry they can become irritable. To avoid this, provide them with snacks before and after the ceremony. Choose snacks that will not make a mess or stain clothing, such as cheese and crackers. Avoid sugary treats.

Package the snacks in coordinating bags, embellished with ribbons and personal name tags, and be sure to include small bottles of water to keep them hydrated.

During the ceremony

As children often drop or lose things, it is common to attach fake rings to the pillow for the ring bearer to carry, and give the real rings to the best man and maid of honour. Let the flower girl and ring bearer sit with a parent or relative in the front row during the ceremony and rejoin the wedding party during the processional. Also make sure that the child’s parent or another family member is ready to scoop them up in the case of a tantrum.

Afterwards

COMING SOON

Children can become confused after the ceremony. With all the attention on the bride and groom, they can be unsure as to what to do next. Give them a hug, thank them, and let them know that you will see them later if you have decided that the reception is a child-free event. If they are coming, promise to save them a dance!

CairnsLife 26 Magazine

F

Main St Arcade, 85 Lake Street Cairns, QLD 07 4051 8344 info@refreshcitydayspa.com.au www.refreshcitydayspa.com.au

CairnsLife 27 Magazine

dings.com.au

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• High Quality Professional Images • Largest Range of Fun props • 1 to 20 people per photo • Includes Professional operator • Discounts apply when booked with Millennium Weddings DJ Packages CairnsLife 28 Magazine

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MAKE YOUR MESSAGE

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info@letters2u.com.au Call Amie on 0424 159 255

find us on

CairnsLife 29 Magazine

Marriage Celebrants GinaS Cairns Tropical Weddings

Creating a ceremony from the heart...

GINA MILES

FRANK MILES

Fe mal e C e l eb r a n t

Ma le Ce le bra nt

0417753371 gina@ginascairnstropicalweddings.com

WEDDINGS, WEDDING VOW RENEWALS, BABY NAMING, FUNERALS Servicing All Areas, we are happy to travel

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RAINFLOWERS & WEDDING BELLS FLORIST

Weddings, Corporate, Hampers, Birthdays, Love, Sympathy, single rose or a bouquet, just because.

28 James Street, Manunda CAIRNS 4870 Phone: 07 40 312 955 After Hours Phone: 0408 069 605 sales@rainflowers.com.au

0413613615 frank@abconlinebooks.com

Shop 5/34 Esplanade, Cairns P 07 4051 5124 M 0402 728 480 CUSTOM DESIGN ENGAGEMENT & WEDDING RINGS RESTORATIONS • REPAIRS FREE QUOTES

www.chibnallsjewellers.com.au

www.rainflowers.com.au

www.shantara.com.au

info@nqhummer.com.au P: 0499 319 020 nqhummer.com.au

27-31 Davidson Street Port Douglas 07 4084 1400 • info@shantara.com.au

CairnsLife 30 Magazine

WEDDING

Choosing the right Celebrant for your wedding is an important part of ensuring that you have a ceremony that you will cherish and remember forever.

People who are drawn to this profession are from all walks of life, and in Tropical North Queensland we are fortunate to have many skilled and creative individuals authorised to officiate and celebrate your special day. Celebrants can help you choose the vows that will demonstrate your love and commitment.

A Civil Celebrant can ensure you have a ceremony that is personal and unique to you as a couple. Whether your ceremony is held on the beach, in a chapel, or even in your own backyard, they are the person who validates the very start of your marriage, and does so by embuing your ceremony with an understanding of your personalities, and vision of your wedding day.. These pages offer a selection of the distinguished, individual and special celebrants the region has to offer.

CairnsLife 31 Magazine

OUR WEDDING

Whether you are planning an elopement, small family wedding or an event your guests will talk about for years to come, you can find someone to help you in this feature. In the following pages we introduce the best wedding specialists carefully chosen from their individual fields of expertise.

Our chosen specialists are up-to-date with the current trends, have excellent product knowledge, s e r v i c e a n d c o m m u n i c a t i o n s k i l l s . Yo u c a n f e e l c o n f i d e n t i n k n o w i n g t h a t t h e y a r e t a l e n t e d professionals who know how important it is to make your special day a dream come true!

CairnsLife 32 Magazine

AMANDA LOUISE MILLYARD DIRECTOR/PRINCIPAL OF MILLYARD FAMILY LAWYERS.

“

Entering into a pre-nuptial agreement should be considered at the start of a marriage or de facto relationship. These agreements are not ‘bullet proof ’, that is, they can in certain circumstances be “undone” by the Family Court, however they are the best legal means of protecting property from claim in the event of a breakdown in the relationship.

With one you have an argument [against a property division under the Family Law Act], without one, you don’t.

”

Millyard Family Lawyers are a Cairns law firm specialising in the practice of family law.

Director and Principal Amanda Millyard, an Accredited Family Law Specialist, has 18 years experience in the practice of family law.

Tailored advice is provided on divorce, property settlements, binding financial agreements (including pre-nuptial agreements), child custody issues and alternative dispute resolution options in family law matters.

Understanding that every case is unique, we find innovative solutions to our client’s legal issue that are grounded in law.

We are committed to being of service.

The Bolands Centre,

Voted into Doyle’s 2017 List of Leading Family & Divorce Lawyers - North Queensland

14 Spence Street Cairns QLD 4870 Tel: 07 40553477 Email: info@millyardfamilylawyers.com.au www.millyardfamilylawyers.com.au

CairnsLife 33 Magazine

CELLAR DOOR

OPEN 7 DAYS 10AM-4PM

mtuncledistillery mtuncle

BRIDGES BAR AND RESTAURANT bridgesatmtuncle

NOW OPEN LATE ON FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS - CLOSED MONDAYS AVAILABLE FOR WEDDINGS & EVENTS

1 8 1 9 Ch e wko R oad, WalkamCina i r n s L i f e 0374 4M0a 8g a6z i8n0e 0 8

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PERFECT PLACE FOR YOU TO SAY ‘I DO’ S A LT H O U S E WORDS BY JANIE BARTON

Salt House is already one of the city’s most unique wedding venues, and with two exciting new renovations currently underway it’s going to be one of the most sought-after spots in Cairns to say “I do”.

Being perched directed on the water’s edge with stunning views of the Cairns Marina and Trinity Inlet is just one of its many sensational features. Its open-plan design blends seamlessly with nature, and a variety of areas to choose from for your ceremony or reception make it the ideal location to celebrate your big day.

Salt House’s already impressive timber deck is being enlarged to run alongside the southern side of the building down to the restaurant, while its front bar will extend out to the main entrance, making the area twice as big as well as private and exclusive while also offering impressive water views.

Salt House’s philosophy is to make sure you have the perfect wedding so you can relax and enjoy the romance and excitement of your special day.

“It’s definitely a very unique venue offering a wonderful wedding experience,” events and marketing manager Leila Kirk said. “We work closely with the bride and groom to make sure they have the best day they possibly can.”

Because the stylish site is situated on the Cairns foreshore, it’s close to most of the city’s major hotels, which is convenient for local guests who want to stay in the city as well as for out-of-town visitors.

“All our team love weddings, and it’s our mission to create a wedding with a difference that will always be remembered by the bride and groom and their guests,” Ms Kirk added.

Couples can select from Salt House’s warm and welcoming private dining room, its fabulous timber deck surrounded by water gardens and fountains, its popular front bar area or outside on a manicured lawn. Being able to cater from two people up to more than 900 makes Salt House the location of choice for all wedding sizes.

You can explore all the areas at Salt House without even leaving your home, thanks to its fantastic digital walkthrough feature on its website. The only problem you might have, however, is deciding which of its superb areas to celebrate your momentous day.

Whether you’re looking for a delicious sit-down meal or heavenly canapé-style food, their professional chefs and events and functions team will work closely with you to ensure your menu is exactly what you desire whatever your budget is.

Salt House Marina Point 6/2 Pierpoint Road, Cairns city Ph: 4041 7733 E:greatviews@salthouse.com.au www.salthouse.com.au

CairnsLife 35 Magazine

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Cakes Annietime Cakes Annietime is a showcase of the incredible skills of Ann O’Rourke, who for the past five years has specialised in creating beautiful, elegant, bespoke cakes and cupcakes for clients throughout Cairns and surrounds. Using only the freshest and highest quality ingredients, the cakes not only look fantastic, more importantly, they taste delicious! Cakes Annietime is one of the few high-end cake makers who can fully cater for all dietary requirements. Making vegan, gluten free, dairy free and allergyfriendly cakes for weddings, birthdays and special occasions. In November, Ann opened her first cafe/cakery on Shields Street, where people can both order cakes and purchase ready made cakes and cupcakes, which you can sit and eat with your coffee.

This is exciting news for her happy customers and will be a welcome addition to Cairns’ growing vegan-friendly food scene.

MAKING DELICIOUS AND BEAUTIFUL CAKES. VEGAN, GLUTEN-FREE AND ALLERGY FRIENDLY IS OUR SPECIALTY

1/47 Shields Street, Cairns OPENING HOURS: Mon-Fri 7:30am-4pm Sat 7:30am-1pm

CairnsLife 37 Magazine

For when you

say “I do” • Unique gazebo setting surrounded by lush tropical gardens, perfect for your ceremony • Traditional Queenslander style reception venues • Accommodation for guests with 345 rooms available

18-26 Cannon Street, Cairns Qld 4870 • t: 07 4053 8873 • e: funcoor@cairnscolonialclub.com.au www.cairnscolonialclub.com.au

Take your vows overlooking the stunning backdrop of Trinity Inlet and lush tropical mountains. A location to make a perfect memory.

W E D D I N G S A T

T H E

REEF HOTEL CASINO

We have a collective of highly professional support services which we can recommend to Your reception venue will look provide all your additional requirements such as stunning with low lighting, The Pullman Reef Hotel chiffon draping, twinkling fairy florists, transport, music Casino is a five star and the like. A dedicated lights and candles adding boutique style hotel located a warm glow and romantic Wedding Coordinator in the heart of Cairns, makes organising your ambience. The wedding overlooking the majestic banquet will be of the highest wedding a dream, offering Trinity inlet. The gateway to professional standards as we assistance during the the Great Barrier Reef. entire planning process. have an enviable reputation for style and quality of food.

Special offer: We cater for ceremonies and wedding receptions There are many photographic Complimentary in your wedding package for the across a variety of opportunities in and around newly wedded couple, you’ll memorable locations, all the complex from ocean & enjoy a luxurious night in a within two minutes from marina views to parklands Junior Suite with sparkling your bridal suite. & gardens. Whilst you wine and chocolates & are off snapping precious The pool deck is an ideal strawberries on arrival, and moments, your guests can location for that casual, a romantic Champagne be entertained with drinks alfresco style wedding breakfast served in your and canapés on the deck ceremony supported by the suite. Book your wedding for or take advantage of one picture frame, highlighting the of the many bars located 2017 or 2018 and receive waterways and mountains a FREE upgrade to the downstairs or in the casino. which provides a perfect backdrop for you and your bridal party.

Pullman Reef Hotel Casino 35-41 Wharf Street, Cairns Qld 4870 P: 07 4030 8798 E: weddings@reefcasino.com.au

CairnsLife 38 Magazine

Looking for the most unique wedding venue in Cairns?

Completely surrounded by lush tropical rainforest, The Venue at AJ Hackett is a wedding venue like no other.

A full Rainforest Ballroom, Terrace overlooking the waterfall and indoor Gravity Bar will take care of all your guest needs.

COMPLETE WEDDING PACKAGES FROM $89pp Enquire for your tailored proposal 4057 7188 ajhackett.com cairns.functions@ajhackett.com

PALM COVE SEA TEMPLE RESORT & SPA

Moments to remember forever

Pullman Palm Cove Sea Temple Resort and Spa is the perfect setting for a celebration of romance.With an idyllic beachfront location, pristine white sandy beaches, and nestled in lush tropical surrounds, it is the perfect backdrop to create your dream wedding. Our dedicated wedding professionals will ensure every detail is covered to create a truly unforgettable celebration.

To discuss your special plans or to book a tour with our specialised Wedding Coordinator call (07) 4059 9619 or email H8761-SB@accor.com.

ned onditio Air C eople • Located in Cairns CBD 300 p o t up • On site bar • On site park Sits e Rate ing le Hir b a n w e o r i r F k s a d e i s g o p a l ay s • St opter Rea Helic a d Lan

Cai r n s S h o wgr o u n d s, C n r Se v e rin St & M u lg ra v e R d Te l : 4 0 4 2 6 6 1 1

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Mo b : 0429 496 805

| v enues@cair ns-show. com

CairnsLife 40 Magazine

Rydges Esplanade Resort features a beautiful, tropical ceremony location, versatile reception rooms for smaller, intimate receptions through to grand affairs seating up to 160 guests.

Each reception room is unique and can be transformed to suit individual tastes. Choose from the elegance of the Crystal Twig room with its abundance of natural light to a poolside tropical wedding or the Joseph Banks Ballroom.

Our passionate, dedicated team are here to work over every detail to create your perfect day.

We invite you to meet with us to show you through our venue options, hotel facilities and discuss the endless possibilities of your dream day.’

Book our $99.oo per person Reception Package, and we will gift you

Deluxe Theming Upgrade • White bridal backdrop with fairy lights • Wishing well • White ‘Mr & Mrs’ Bridal table theming • Chocolate heart guest favours AND

First Anniversary Package • 1 nights accommodation in an Executive Room with a bottle of sparkling wine and a 12pm late check out • Dinner for 2 at Fire & Ice Seafood Buffet • Full buffet breakfast for 2 • 2 movie tickets for Event Cinemas * Conditions apply. Subject to availability. Minimun numbers apply. For bookings made before 31 March 2017.

P : 4044 9022 | E : functions_rydgesesplanadecairns@evt.com | www.rydges.com/esplanadecairns

+61 (0) 7 4098 5700 • 5078 Capt Cook H w y, Oak B each • weddings@thalabeach.com.au

offering a wedding venue that encompasses both rainforest and reef in one stunning setting. 145 acres of private nature reserve with an abundance of natural beauty. Embrace nature along with your family and friends and spend quality time with the ones you love. Accommodation in tree top bungalows allows for everyone to stay and enjoy the whole weekend at Thala.

Start with a beautiful beach ceremony on the sand, the Coral Sea lapping at the shore, palm trees providing shade from the tropical sun. Family and friends gathering for celebrations at Herbies Beach Shack, multiple on site locations for a photographers’ dream shoot to capture the significance of the day, the magic, the love, the family that have come to witness your happiness.

Curlews Lounge with its panoramic vistas is perfect for your intimate reception, specifically designed by our on-site wedding planner whose attention to detail is second to none. Unique, individual and very you, dine from our sumptuous menus with locally sourced ingredients, delivered by expert professionals with discretion and poise.

Your wedding. Your day. Your life ahead. What a way to start.

Weddings. Vow renewals.

Commitment Ceremonies. We are here for you.

• Destination Wedding on your doorstep • Dedicated wedding coordinator on site • Only ever 1 wedding on any one day • Awesome photograph locations all here – beach, rainforest, Coconut plantation, Rock pool, headland – no need for extended time away from your family and friends • Design your dream Reception • Exclusive wedding accommodation rates for all guests • Seated 65 / cocktail 100

w w w.thalabeach.com.au

Colyn Hu ber from Lovegreen Photography • Ian Stone from Po sh Pho to gr aphy

Thala Beach Nature Reserve offers an unparalleled location

CAIRNS | GREAT BARRIER REEF

A truly unique wedding destination on the Great Barrier Reef...

Just 45 minutes by FastCat from Cairns lies Fitzroy Island – a tropical paradise of rainforest and beaches within the calm, sheltered waters of Queensland’s Great Barrier Reef. Have an intimate island wedding ceremony for two, or invite your family and friends along to share in your happiness. Choose from a number of picturesque ceremony locations.

The team at Fitzroy Island has a wealth of experience in creating stress-free, dream weddings, from the strategic preplanning stages down to every last ceremony and reception detail on the big day. If you need a wedding celebrant,

WEDDING PACKAGE INCLUDES: • Ceremony in your choice of location • Venue hire • Seasonal three-course menu PRICE: Starts from AUD 7,000, based on 80 guests. Offer is valid until 1 December 2017.

OFFER: Mention CairnsLife when booking your wedding package and we’ll include a complimentary one-hour, in-room couples massage.

T. 07 4044 6700 | E: resort.events@fitzroyisland.com | W. www.fitzroyisland.com

WORDS & PHOTO BY SILVIA MOGOROVICH

Nestled in a leafy block right in the heart of the city, the Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort is perfectly situated to offer every convenience and yet is private enough that there is absolutely no view of the resort style pool (or pool bar!) from the street.

A favourite with locals since it opened, the Novotel Oasis recently celebrated their 20th year and with it a fresh look at their Weddings and Events packages.

Jessica Lipman is the newly appointed Wedding and Events Co-ordinator, and brings a lovely and warm enthusiasm to her role, “Planning a wedding involves hundreds of decisions. As a great listener, I’ll be there to help move these decisions forward for that personal touch!” she says. Her discretion and attention to detail, prior to and on the day of the event, ensure that all aspects of your wedding run smoothly. Fully inclusive packages are available, which can be tweaked to your specifications and budget – the hotel offers both the personal touch of a boutique hotel, but with the flexibility and resources of the second largest hotel in Cairns they are also part of the AccorHotels Group.

Jessica Lipman Wedding and Events Co-ordinator

“Planning a wedding involves hundreds of decisions. As a great listener, I’ll be there to help move these decisions forward for that personal touch!”

Hens parties and engagement parties (with the added bonus of having onsite babysitting) can be held in any of the spaces, and you can even hire your favourite DJ to play in the Banquet Room until the clock strikes midnight!

Say I Do ..TO THE VIEW ..TO MISSION BEACH ..TO CASTAWAYS RESORT & SPA Castaways Resort & Spa 2 Pacific Parade, Mission Beach, Queensland, 4852 P: 07 4068 7444 F: 07 4068 7429 E: weddings@castaways.com.au

CairnsLife 47 Magazine

07 4080 1821 events@novotelcairnsresort.com.au www.novotelcairnsresort.com.au novotelcairnsresort

Perfect

love...

Perfect setting

...deserves the

LOCATED IN THE HEART OF CAIRNS. Novotel cairns Oasis Resort offers lush, tropical gardens, lagoon pool with cascading water features. Our island style pool side cabana and indoor-outdoor entertainment areas form the perfect backdrop for the exchange of vows and dream reception.

ALL INCLUSIVE WEDDING PACKAGES. Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort offer a variety of options for your Wedding Ceremony and Reception. Our all-inclusive reception packages incorporate theming, food and beverage packages, audio visual, and venue hire. Our Tailor made packages are designed exclusively around your dream wedding day.

NOVOTEL CAIRNS OASIS RESORT can also offer unique Engagement Parties, Ice-Breaker Functions, and Day After Luncheons options.

MAKE YOURS A

WEDDING

WORDS BY JANIE BARTON

THERE ARE SO MANY D E TA I L S T O O R G A N I S E T O E N S U R E Y O U H AV E YOUR DREAM WEDDING T H AT I T ’ S A L M O S T IMPOSSIBLE TO DO E V E R Y T H I N G Y O U R S E L F.

That’s where Port Douglas Catering & Events comes into the picture. Not only does the experienced team of the multi-award-winning business create outstanding food that every guest will love, they take care of a whole range of services to ensure you relax, enjoy your day and have the wedding you have always dreamed of having.

“It can be quite stressful planning a wedding, but we can make the entire process quite stress-free and easy,” said head chef and co-owner Tommy Young. “We can take care of a lot of different service aspects of a wedding to make it easier and much more enjoyable for couples.”

Port Douglas Catering & Events are renowned for providing exceptional food each and every time.

Whether it’s a menu you design, an a la carte meal from their talented chefs, canapés only or a table banquet with a large variety of dishes using local seasonal produce, the experienced professionals will help make your big day one you and your guests will treasure forever.

The boutique business, also owned by Dean Bland, has 21 local years’ experience in the food and entertaining industry, and its passion about creating exquisite meals and professional service is evident in the number of national, state and local catering accolades it has received.

The team’s creative flair providing exception meals, food presentation and personalised theming displays ensure a momentous wedding for everyone, especially the happy couple.

Its enthusiastic and energetic team can also

take care of all the essential details such as flowers, furniture, lighting, décor, entertainment, photography, wedding celebrant and even transport for you, leaving you free to enjoy your once-in-a-lifetime celebration. They also have an excellent cake maker on the team who will create any cake you want in a style that perfectly suits you or your wedding theme.

“We are passionate about creativity, exquisite food and professional service,” Dean said. “We make sure everyone enjoys themselves, especially the bride and groom.”

With access to unique venues from the beach to the rainforest, luxurious surroundings or under the stars, Tommy, Dean and their team have the expertise, passion and enthusiasm to transform any location into a magical wedding. Aligning with Port Douglas Catering & Events on your big day is one surefire way to ensure you have the perfect fairy-tale wedding.

Port Douglas Catering & Events 6 Grant Street, Port Douglas Ph: 4099 4233 www.portdouglascatering.com.au

Wedding THE

Specialists CUPCAKE CREATIONS

The sweetest thing

You can break tradition yet follow an age-old rite at the same time by taking a new modern-day approach to topping off the sweetest and most romantic day of your life.

One of the newest and most favoured trends at wedding receptions today is the inclusion of custom-made cupcakes in the cake-cutting ceremony.

Cupcake Creations’ owner Lyndsey Eather, who personally bakes all the shop’s delicious cupcakes by hand, says the addition of cupcakes along with a small cake at receptions, is rapidly gaining in popularity.

“Couples are loving having a cake and cupcakes at their weddings,” she said. “They have a cake for the ceremony and photography, and then they have cupcakes to easily give out to their guests.”

Cupcake Creations has 11 different flavours to sample and choose from. Lyndsey, who

opened the first cupcake shop in Cairns more than six years ago, happily includes any specific colours, themes and decorations on her creations and can personally deliver and set up a beautiful towered display at any location.

The well-loved shop is open Tuesdays to Saturdays and also caters for birthdays, anniversaries and all types of special occasions.

Cupcake Creations Shop 2B, Civic Shopping Centre, Sheridan St, Cairns Ph: 4051 1600 www.cairnscupcakes.com.au

WORDS BY JANIE BARTON

FOR THE PERFECT BEGINNING KEWA RRA BEACH RESOR T AND SPA W O R DS BY JANIE BAR TO N

Combining first-class facilities with Mother Nature at her finest is what makes Kewarra Beach Resort & Spa one of the most sought-after romantic venues to start your married life together.

The boutique beachfront resort is well known for hosting the perfect intimate tropical wedding. You will love exchanging your vows and having your reception at the resort’s seaside thatchedroof Nautilus Deck, surrounded by palm trees on one side and the glistening Coral Sea on the other.

Or you can say ‘I do’ surrounded by hectares of lush gardens outside or in an air-conditioned venue overlooking the resort’s sensational tropical gardens.

All settings cater for up to 60 people and are exclusive and secluded, ensuring you enjoy the perfect romantic start for your new beginning.

To add to your dream day, the beachside resort’s internationally known kitchen brigade will create the perfect meal using only the freshest tropical produce.

Whether it’s one of their three delicious buffets, which are well known for pleasing all palates, or a meal of your choice, the first-class chefs ensure the menu is a CairnsLife 53 Magazine

sublime culinary experience for you and all your guests.

To make your big day even more ideal, the resort’s wedding directors are there to help you in every way. Their personal attention to your needs and their dedication to making your day absolutely perfect ensure you are relaxed, happy, have peace of mind and enjoy one of the biggest days of your life.

Staying overnight at Kewarra Beach Resort & Spa will complete the dream wedding for you and your guests.

Beautifully appointed individual accommodation bungalows are discretely situated throughout the resort’s 30 hectares of lush tropical gardens. There are a number of pathways to explore the gardens and two free-form pools for you and your guests to enjoy.

Kewarra Beach Resort & Spa is the only beachside resort in the area, which is why it’s one of the most sought-after wedding venues in the region.

Kewarra Beach Resort & Spa Kewarra Beach Ph: 4058 40000 E: events@kewarrabeachresort.com.au www.kewarra.com

Luxury by the sea

SARAYI 95 Williams Esplanade. Palm Cove 4879 Telephone: 07 4059 5600

A humdinger of an entrance WORDS BY JANIE BARTON

NQ HUMMER Want to make a grand entrance at your wedding ceremony and reception, then do it in style with one of NQ Hummer’s amazing stretch hummers.

With seating for 14, complimentary champagne and a fantastic sound system, you will feel like royalty when you travel in either a black or white hummer driven by one of their professional chauffeurs.

After the ceremony, you and your wedding party can start the celebrations by travelling altogether in luxury to numerous locations for photographs before arriving at the reception.

Wedding packages, which include drinks, chocolates, nibbles and ribbons to decorate the hummer, can be

tailored for your needs and you can even bring your favourite drinks on board.

Perfect for Hens and Buck Nights too, these elegant hummers are 8.5 metres long, have an in-built bar with all glasses and ice supplied, three TV screens, night-club lighting and a luxurious interior to enhance your festivities.

NQ Hummer Ph: 0499 319 020 Email: info@nqhummer.com.au www.nqhummer.com.au

ASHLEE PIPER

Bridal beauty on location

Making certain that you have the perfect hair and make-up on your wedding day is what Ashlee Piper Hairdressing does best.

Experienced hairdresser and wedding stylist Ashlee Piper has 18 years’ experience in the industry. Not only do her clients get one of the region’s best hairdressers, she provides a unique and professional mobile service to make life easier and less stressful for brides on their big day.

“We have recognised that it’s a huge convenience and very practical for brides and their bridal party for us to go to them on their big day,” said Ashlee, who has worked on countless weddings over the years. “It’s so much easier for the brides than travelling into a salon on their wedding day as their day can be difficult enough.

“Usually where the brides are getting married is most often the place where they get ready, so we go to them in the comfort of their hotel, venue or home. We set up a workstation and do their hair and make-up in the most relaxed and enjoyable environment possible. Brides and their bridal party can then unwind and really savour their morning, as well as getting ready with privacy and comfort all while sipping on a glass of champagne…or two.”

Because they are on location, Ashlee and her team can also be there while the pre-wedding photos are being taken to make certain their clients look their best. They also meet their brides before their big day for a trial and to discuss hair and makeup

requirements to ensure the bride, bridesmaids and mother of bride/groom have the perfect hair and make-up to follow.

The professional and reputable mobile service covers Cairns, Palm Cove, Port Douglas, the Tablelands and Mission Beach.

Ashlee has worked with many leading brands including L’oreal, Redken, GHD, American Crew and Balmain Hair Extensions. She excels in all areas of hairdressing and has an intrinsic eye for cutting-edge beauty.

“We get a lot of great feedback from our clients,” she said. “I’ve done a number of bridesmaids previously who then contact me to take care of them on their wedding day, even years down the track from the first time we did hair and makeup for them. That is truly rewarding for us, as is seeing a bride look her absolute best on her special day.”

Follow Ashlee Piper Hairdressing on facebook and Instagram to keep up with this amazing and creative talent.

Ashlee Piper Hairdressing Ph: 0402 850 550 Email: ashlee@ashleepiperhairdressing.com.au

PHOTO BY SILVIA MOGOROVICH

CORAL COAST CATERING

The right ingredient WORDS BY JANIE BARTON

Not only do you want to love every aspect of your wedding day, you also want to make sure your guests enjoy themselves also, which is why serving excellent food is a key ingredient to the day’s success.

To ensure you and your guests are completely satisfied you’ll want to enlist the help of Coral Coast Catering, who have been helping to make weddings memorable for nine years. The local catering company is in high demand because they use the best, fresh local produce, innovative menus and provide excellent service.

Not only do the sought after caterers have a large selection of menus to choose from, they will also create a unique menu designed to your specific requirements. The service does not end there, as Coral Coast Catering can also supply furniture, marquees, lighting, dishes, cutlery and even a bar!

The experienced chefs and professional service staff travel wherever they are needed, including Tully, Mission Beach, the Tablelands, Port Douglas, Cairns and even as far away as Cooktown.

“We want to make sure that every wedding is a very special occasion,” said co-owner David Young. “We have the right ideas, excellent staff and delicious food, all at the right price.”

Make it stress-free DYNAMIC WEDDINGS While your wedding is one of the most important days of your life, organising it and taking care of all the finer details can be overwhelming and can take the magic out of your big day. But it’s not that way when you have Dynamic Weddings by your side.

Led by Louise Harris, who is an expert in the wedding planning field, Dynamic Weddings takes all the worry out of your hands and ensures you have the wedding of your dreams.

Cairns Catering Company Ph: 0437 000 740 Email: info@coralcoastcatering.com.au www.coralcoastcatering.com.au

WORDS BY JANIE BARTON PHOTO BY SILVIA MOGOROVICH

décor, styling, furniture and lighting.

Having long-term relationships with wedding vendors and suppliers, Dynamic Weddings delivers exactly what the bride and groom want so they have their dream wedding.

“We take the stress out of weddings because the bride and groom know with certainty that everything they want is being taken care of,” said Louise, who has been in the industry for eight years.

“We love being part of their big day and making sure it’s perfect for them,” Louise said. “Every wedding is special to us.”

Louise and her team work closely with the bride and groom to cover all aspects of the wedding including photography, hair, make-up, flowers,

Dynamic Weddings Ph: 0404 763 422 Email: info@dynamicweddings.net.au www.dynamicweddings.net.au

BOHO BRIDES

The individual touch For exquisite, lacy wedding dresses, perfectly suited for our tropical weather, be sure to visit Boho Bridal.

After opening in April 2016, the stylish bridal boutique is expanding and moving to Aplin St where gorgeous unique wedding and bridesmaid dresses by a number of Australian designers, including Made with Love, Jack Sullivan, Goddess by Nature and Jenny Yoo from New York, are available.

The new premise includes a large change room and an interconnecting lounge area where brides and guests can enjoy champagne while your personal fitting encourages you to relax and find your perfect dress.

The beautiful and feminine dresses are not only soft and elegant, they’re very comfortable and hand made from the finest fabrics.

You’ll also find veils and bride and groom accessories including the popular men’s timber bow ties exclusive to Cairns by Peggy and Finn.

Even better news for brides is Boho Bridal’s sensational highend designs are affordable, with prices ranging from $1400.00 to $3,600.00.

Boho Bridal 12A Aplin Street, Cairns city Ph: 0416 030 214 www.bohobridal.net

WORDS BY JANIE BARTON

Photo by Emm Films

NO VENUE HIRE - NO MINIMUM SPEND

ellisbeachbarandgrill.com.au • (07) 4055 3534 • functions@ellisbeachbarandgrill.com.au

CairnsLife 58 Magazine

EXECUTIVE BABYSITTING

We look after the little ones As Cairns’ longest-established and most respected locally owned babysitting agency, EXECUTIVE BABYSITTING provide responsible minding of your little ones. Their service is backed by over 30 years’ professional babysitting experience.

Specialising in on-site babysitting, babysitting for special events and regular home babysitting services. All of their babysitters deliver a service that frees your time while making it entertaining for the kids involved with fun games and special Mary Poppins “bag of tricks”.

Servicing the entire Cairns region, including the South – Woree to Gordonvale and Northern Beaches areas – Ellis Beach, Palm Cove, Kewarra Beach, Clifton Beach, Trinity Beach, Holloways and Machans Beach as well as Oak Beach, Port Douglas, Mossman and Newell Beach.

ALL OF OUR SERVICES ARE: • Delivered by a specially selected team of professional carers who abide by a strict Code of Conduct • In demand by local, interstate and international visitors alike • Recommended by leading hotels and resorts in Cairns and Port Douglas

THE EXECUTIVE BABYSITTING TEAM: • All hold the mandatory “Blue Card” issued by the Commission for Children and Young People and Child Guardians • Are mostly mothers themselves, and so enjoy special knowledge and rapport with the children in their care • Many hold childcare qualifications or have nursing or teaching experience • Have First Aid certificates and are reference and police checked • Ensure your children enjoy a thoroughly entertaining and delightful experience Contact them today to find out more about our Babysitting services.

CALL PAULINE AND HER BRILLIANT TEAM OF CARERS ON THE 24 HOUR BABYSITTING HOTLINE

0417 612 975

pauline@executivebabysitting.com.au

PHOTO BY SILVIA MOGOROVICH

CairnsLife 61 Magazine