Equally Wed LGBTQ Wedding Magazine

LAUNCH ISSUE

Julie McCrossin; Demonstrations and Marriage

Alex Greenwich; the next fight is Transgender Rights

Your guide to Wedding Planning

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special edition

AUS $12.50 ISSUE #1 : 2018 ISSN 2209-0657

ISSN 2209-0657

9 772209 065005

40 Years Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras

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A d ve r tisin g & Par tn e rships Nivelo Miller advertising@equallywed.com.au E d it or Gary Aschmoneit gary@equallywed.com.au A r t Dire c to r Kamini Mountford hello@blaskdesign.com D e s ign e rs Designed by Blask Design Jimmy Williams Cover I mage Frank Farrugia Same Love Photography www.samelove.com.au E d it oria l Co n trib u to rs Warren Entsch, Julie McCrossin, Kate Doak, Prada Clutch, Alex Greenwich Andrew Patchett, Daniella McGregor, Anastacia Driver, Kerrie Wood, Steve Miller, Amy Kate, Jessica Amberley, Natalie Fielding, Virginia Jacobs, Ashley Scott.

Ph oto gra ph ic Co n tribu t ors Frank Farrugia (Same love Photography) Nicole Anne (Nicole Anne Designs) Designs, Michael Martin (MM Photos)

S u b scriptio n s e qu a lly wed.com.au/magazine F in a nce acco u n ts@e qu allywed.com.au Ph o n e : + 6 1 4 0 2 1 7 7 4 0 6 e q u ally we d.co m.a u

ABN 74 896 18994 – ISSN 2209-0657 Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information in this magazine, no responsibility can be accepted by the publisher for inaccuracy or for submissions by organisations or individuals and/or printers’ error. Copyright 2018 Equally Wed Magazine. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or part without permission is strictly prohibited.

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6 Welcome

50 What’s Hot

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52 Wedding Apps

Marriage Equality To The Entsch Degree

10 Lgbti Rights Progression In Safe Hands 18 The 78Ers 21 Your Wedding Planning Timeline 27 Critical Elements 28 Peak Time For Weddings 29 Why Wedding Insurance?

32 Picking Your Vendors 35 Four Tips On Planning A Marquee Wedding 39 Wedding Party Styling 40 Your Wedding Budget 42 What Does A Wedding Planner Do? 43 What Is A Full-Service Wedding Planner’s Role?

58 Inside The Party Room 61 The Legal Impact Of ‘I Do’ 66 Mister Mister Autumn/ Winter Advice 72 Your Must-Have Wedding Registry Items 76 Casual Styling 78 Destination Weddings Nt 81 Wine Filled Honeymoons 84 Business Feature 86 Rainbow Families 89 Dylan & Emma Wedding 95 Daniel & James Wedding 102 Sarah & Karen Wedding 106 Choosing Wine For Your Wedding 107 Other Wine Styles

45 What Is An On The Day Coordinator?

108 Gift Ideas

46 What Is A Venue Coordinator?

111 Other Things To Consider

49 Wedding Invitation Checklist

110 Champagne Guide

112 Subscribe And Save

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WELCOME Whilst the wedding industry is going through a bit of a shake-up, we launch our first magazine with a broader vision. We always envisaged a magazine that involved the LGBTI+ community, gifting pages for community organisation or letting LGBTI+ people speak through editorials and l am happy that what you are holding is just that!

We are in a time when we have achieved partial equality, albeit through a harsh public opinion on our family unit, which will no doubt leave some wounds that will take time to heal properly. A civil right treated like a ping pong ball in parliament.

That, l think, aptly sums up the process.

It has, however, finally brought us a time of celebration which affects not only marriage but also children and families, our lives and beyond. It’s been a major step in the right direction but it only encompasses part of the LGBTI+ community.

We will continue to fight.

For now, let’s celebrate!

Let’s dance our butts off on the dance floor to music with powerful messages at the wedding we always dreamed about. It’s our time to pave the way, whether it be a day, a weekend or perhaps a week (for those that want to celebrate the long wait, you deserve it ) and do what we want in the way we want. Break traditions, carve your own path, question processes, feel confident to make changes to the ’norm’. It’s YOUR day and you can let loose. Whether it’s to “Freedom!” or “I’m Coming Out” you want to feel entirely comfortable with your guests, wedding professionals, family and/or friends.

N IV E LO MIL L E R ­— FOUNDER

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MARRIAGE EQUALITY TO THE ENTSCH DEGREE The Hon. Warren Entsch MP

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This means such a great deal to me,

It was these very same stories that I

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Federal Member for Leichhardt

after 14 years of advocacy it means

began to share with my Parliamentary

relief and a great deal of pride.

colleagues and it was the people

When I first started speaking out about this, nobody from either side of the chamber wanted a bar of it and speaking out certainly isolated me, but persistence pays off.

Because of my background or at least people’s perception of it, they thought of me as a most unlikely gay rights advocate. This perception began to disarm my political opponents and encouraged many people in the LGBTIQ community to share their stories with me. These stories were instrumental in maintaining my strength of conviction and reaffirmed my commitment to the cause.

behind the stories that I began to introduce to my colleagues that really began to humanise the whole situation and that’s how we started to change hearts and minds.

Many of my colleagues completely changed their views, or those who were somewhat ambivalent about the whole thing began to come over to the right side of history. The change in attitude over the years was very rewarding to see in its own right.

On the night the legislation passed,

We only have Marriage… we do not

up in the Mural Hall, there was a

discriminate and that is just fantastic.

gentleman in his 70s, he saw me sitting on my own, reflecting on what had just happened and he came over to shake my hand.

He said:

postal survey really solidified this sentiment as well.

In the future I can see a significant amount of weddings and in fact I’ve already been asked to attend a few same-sex weddings.

As for what’s next? The LGBTIQ Parliamentary Friendship group that Graham Perret, Sarah Hanson-Young and myself initially setup in 2010 will continue to work in this space. Having

outstanding issues, particularly in relation to the transgender community.

I want to see these issues addressed, well as anything else that comes to our

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attention through the friendship group.

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We’re well connected with many of the

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so that’s where I will be focussing as

advocacy groups so when we hear of any issues that need our support we won’t hesitate to get involved It’s a huge sense of achievement, most people come into this place hoping to

He began to sob uncontrollably, he was

make a change but very few actually

so emotional and it was that moment

have the opportunity to achieve

that really reinforced in my mind what

something of this magnitude.

we were finally able to achieve.

This is single biggest social policy

After that momentous day, I felt a little

change since the 1967 referendum

flat for a while, because I guess it all

and to have my name associated with

just felt so surreal and to an extent

that gives me a huge sense of pride

there was a weight that had been lifted

and for me it will be one of my legacies

off of my shoulders. My only regret is

of my time in this place, because I’ve

that it couldn’t have happened sooner.

seen firsthand the impact it makes to

So what does this mean for the community? Well what it means is, in Australia we no longer have “Gay Marriage” or “Same Sex Marriage”.

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inception, I’m aware of quite a few

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been a co-chair of the group since its

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“I REALLY JUST WANT TO THANK YOU; YOU HAVE MADE ME FEEL LIKE AN EQUAL AUSTRALIAN. I’M NOT IN A RELATIONSHIP AND I HAVE NO INTENTION TO MARRY, BUT IT WAS SOMETHING THAT AS AN AUSTRALIAN I WAS NOT ALLOWED TO DO BECAUSE OF MY SEXUALITY AND YOU’VE REMOVED THAT BARRIER.”

I feel as though the results of the

people’s lives.

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LGBTI RIGHTS PROGRESSION IN SAFE HANDS If there’s one precious memory from

started to slip away and be replaced

lucky enough to have the honour of

the marriage equality campaign that

with the positive belief and knowledge

helping others tell their own stories

I’ll never forget, it’s the moment when

that the overwhelming victory of the

in relation to both Marriage Equality

my close friends Christine and Virginia

“Yes” campaign has ultimately secured

and other LGBTI related rights, over

asked me to take photos for them

the progression of LGBTI rights within

the course of the past five years. From

during the afterparty for their wedding.

Australia going forward. Like the “Ugly

the politicians in Canberra through to

With tears in my eyes and a cheeky

Duckling” turning into a beautiful

LGBTI youth living on the streets, I’ve

grin on my face, the ability to provide

swan, the transformation of Australian

witnessed (and helped to amplify) the

two of the people who helped me not

society as people’s perspectives have

passion that people from all walks

only to survive coming out but thrive

rapidly evolved over recent years

of life have had to make the world

in the aftermath with a wedding gift

has been nothing short of inspiring,

a better place for all, even when

that they would truly cherish for the

even though every member of the

it’s come at a significant emotional

rest of their lives, was an honour that I

LGBTI community has had to endure

cost for me personally, as a result.

honestly couldn’t pass up.

a personal walk through the depths

Furthermore, it’s also provided me with

of proverbial hell over recent years, in

the ability to view first hand instances

order to achieve it.

of compassion, empathy and personal

In that single moment the cold grasp of trauma, stress and heartache that came about as a result of the postal

Now as an investigative journalist

survey on marriage equality finally

with an LGBTI background, I’ve been

courage, that few people ever have the opportunity to see.

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From preparing to move amendments

surf in the service of others, Alex is

friend that I’ve felt honoured to work

with bipartisan support to dismiss

ultimately a member of a rare breed

alongside over recent years on multiple

now out-dated legislation regarding

of activist-turned-politician, who

issues.

marriage equality and birth certificates

isn’t afraid to throw himself in the

within the NSW Parliament through

deep end in order to help others, or

to exhausting himself emotionally in

publicly admit when he’s been wrong

order to assist others throughout the

and attempt to make amends when

marriage equality campaign, perhaps

possible. From asking me to speak at

the most heart-wrenching yet soul

major rallies upon recognising that

building story that I’ve heard since the

no trans or intersex speakers were

end of the postal survey though, came

present (much to the apparent chagrin

from none other than Alex Greenwich

of Rodney Croome in mid 2015), to

back on the 1st of February, during

often offering a shoulder to cry on,

an interview within the welcoming

Alex hasn’t been afraid to get his

confines of his electorate office along

hands dirty, even when it’s come at a

Oxford Street in Sydney.

significant emotional cost. For all of his

Like a lifeguard willing to throw themselves repeatedly into the vicious

flaws (and caring too much at times can occasionally be one of them), Alex is a deeply honourable man and a good

But while some people across the entire LGBTI demographic may feel as if Trans and Intersex people and issues were intentionally “thrown under the bus” by people like Alex throughout the course of the marriage equality debate, as the former NSW representative on the national steering committee of Safe Schools Coalition Australia and a consultant on Trans related issues to both Australians for Equality and later The Equality Campaign, I can say with both certainty and conviction that such allegations are categorically untrue.

While the transphobic remarks,

know this, the fact that the Australian

start to grow as people as a result.

advertisements, announcements and

Christian Lobby utilised exactly the

Furthermore, with many of the principal

actions of the Coalition for Marriage’s

same playbook in regards to trans and

organisers, donors and political

“No Campaign” were particularly vile,

intersex rights when pursuing the Safe

advocates for marriage equality now

unsavoury and distressing, to have

Schools Coalition Australia program

openly asking how they can assist both

risen to their bait would have only

in 2016 and only fed upon comments

the Trans and Intersex communities

encouraged them to go further with

that were meant to protect and

going forward both socially, legally,

their divisive tactics, at a time when

advocate for the program’s existence,

academically and economically, this

many trans people were already

shows just how dangerous reacting

goodwill has the potential to result

feeling particularly vulnerable.

to inflammatory situations can be.

in further significant changes in the

Consequentially, when having to pick

Tormentors thrive on the reactions of

months and years to come.

between staying silent on an issue or

their targets, so by ignoring them a

making things even worse, sometimes

moral victory of real substance can

you’ve got to override your own sense

often be found, even when we don’t

of social justice, in order to ensure

realise it at the time.

that the least damaging mental health

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Warren Entsch, Dean Smith, Janet Rice, Penny Wong and Tim Wilson or at the state level with people like

encouraging people to remain civil

Penny Sharpe, Christine Forster and

while under fire, it’s moves like this

Alex Greenwich, I feel as if the future of

which often encourage lasting pools

LGBTI rights progression, particularly

of both social and political goodwill

in relation to Trans related issues and

to appear, as the public gradually

marriage in general, are ultimately in

Now while some people will ultimately

comes to realise the stereotypical folly

safe hands.

say that it’s impossible for me to

of their previous perspectives and

even though it ultimately tears you

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be federally with people like Tom Snow,

By taking the high road and

decision is made for the sake of others

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Life is there to be lived, and whether it

apart in the process, as it evidentially has for both myself and those I advised on this issue over recent months.

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Chantelle & Kristen Photography: Same Love Photography Location: Paddington Reservoir, Sydney

THE 78ERS Julie McCrossin

SAP PH O, FRAGME N T 31, C . 630BC

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“…WHEN I LOOK AT YOU, EVEN FOR A SHORT TIME, IT IS NO LONGER POSSIBLE TO SPEAK. IT IS AS IF MY TONGUE IS BROKEN AND IMMEDIATELY A SUBTLE FIRE HAS RUN OVER MY SKIN, I CANNOT SEE ANYTHING WITH MY EYES, AND MY EARS ARE BUZZING…”

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The first demonstration I remember

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marching in was down the main street of Sydney in 1974. We were walking

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along the footpath because we were not yet confident or numerous enough to rally on the road. We were waving placards and calling for the return of

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a teacher’s scholarship to a lesbian

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woman called Penny Short. Penny was The poet Sappho wrote sensual poems

that homosexuality was normal and

about men and women. These words

discrimination was wrong. It was 10

of arousal and excitement were written

long years of distress, fear, confusion

over 2,500 years ago about a woman.

and shame. I dread to think how hard

As a young teenager in the 1960s,

it would have been if I had been born

studying ancient history and Latin at

in an earlier era. I was lucky to hit

school, I remember very clearly reading

university just as the wave of gay

the work of this poet from the Greek

liberation from New York and San

island of Lesbos for the first time.

Francisco broke over Australia. I could

It was a giant relief. I wasn’t alone

channel all my pain about the years

anymore. Other women had these

of silence into activism. This activism

feelings for each other. It gave me

has truly changed our world. Marriage

hope.

equality is now a reality in Australia.

It would be over 10 years before I actually met gay and lesbian activists at Sydney University in the early 1970s who told me, for the first time,

We are truly equal before the law.

Our families and our children are now equally valid. This would have been unimaginable to me as a young woman.

a student at Macquarie University who lost her scholarship when she wrote a lesbian love poem for the student newspaper. She was called into a mandatory psychiatric assessment, deemed unfit to teach because of her sexuality and her scholarship was withdrawn. Penny never got that scholarship back. This was 10 years before homosexuality was decriminalised in NSW in 1984. There was no anti-discrimination law back then. All these years later, Penny is my Facebook friend. Penny and I are both “78ers”, the name given to people who were part of the demonstrations that started the first Mardi Gras in Sydney.

My response to Penny’s treatment

My wife, Melissa Gibson and I married

back in 1974 was pure rage. It was

in Manhattan in 2014. Our two adult

a rage that burnt in the hearts of the

children, Luke and Amelia were with

thousands of gay, lesbian, bisexual,

us and overjoyed. Melissa and I have

transgender and straight supporters

been together for over 22 years. The

who fought for gay rights. It was the

children were tiny when we met. I had

rage that inspired us to overcome any

always planned to wait until marriage

fear of being arrested, or losing our

was legal in Australia. But in 2013 I

jobs, or even losing our families, as

was diagnosed with stage four cancer

many of us did back then. And we still

in my tonsils, tongue and throat. We

do today. Despite legal equality, the

decided we may not have time to

religious and cultural discrimination

wait. I proposed in the chemo ward

against homosexuality continues in

at The Kinghorn Cancer Centre and,

many communities across Australia.

after treatment, we got on a plane

Our fight continues. As does the

to New York. As we waited excitedly

international battle. Over 70 countries

for our marriage, with all the straight

still have laws forbidding homosexual

couples in the Office of the City Clerk in

love, including some with the death

Manhattan, I experienced what it is like

penalty.

to be truly equal for the first time. It felt

rejoice our rainbow victory in Australia.

Let’s plan our weddings, invite our guests and open our hearts to each

fantastic. This year Melissa and I will celebrate our fourth anniversary back in New York together. Sappho would be pleased, I’m sure.

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other and those who love us.

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But, just for now, let’s celebrate and

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“…A COLD SWEAT COMES OVER ME, TREMBLING I AM PALER THAN GRASS, AND I SEEM NEARLY TO HAVE DIED, BUT EVERYTHING MUST BE DARED…” SA P P H O, FRAG M E NT 3 1 , C . 6 3 0 B C

Image by studioredsky.com

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YOUR WEDDING PLANNING TIMELINE W E HAV E PUT TOGETHER A GUI D E TO P LA N N ING YOUR WE DDI NG F RO M YO UR EN GAGEM EN T TO YOUR WE DDI NG DAY. CO N SI D ER THI S A BI T O F A CHEC KLIST, B UT N OT EV ERY TH I N G WI LL A P P LY TO EVERY COUPLE S O JUST USE THI S AS A REF ER E NC E .

W EDDINGS CAN B E P ULLED TO GETH ER I N SEVE RA L W EEKS OR THEY CA N TA K E Y EARS, I T ’S REALLY U P TO YOU.

12 TO 18 MONTHS PRIOR

and send out the invitations.

Set a wedding date but keep a few other dates in mind as

Now i s the ti me to d ete r mi ne the fo l l ow i ng: What sort of wedding ceremony and reception you wish to have (ie. formal, casual, garden etc).

(ie. modern, beach, rustic, industrial etc).

Define a budget and figure out who is contributing to the wedding and in what way.

Our Tip: Start a folder where you keep all your wedding related information, pinterest ideas, invoices, confirmations etc

ceremony and reception venue.

Contact celebrants and set-up over the phone interviews or meetup for a coffee to determine who you would work with best.

Choose your wedding party and don’t forget your fourlegged ring bearers!

A d d it io n a l E x t ra s : Will you need to hire extra equipment? Furniture, hire items, decorations, photobooth etc.

Do you need a Plan B? Marquee or Outdoor structure in case it rains.

Are you decorating the reception venue yourself or should you hire a decorator/stylist?

Let’s go shopping! Compile your gift registry. Would you prefer wine, gifts, money, a honeymoon slush fund or just a huge voucher at Bunnings!

Be sure to include items in all price ranges to ensure all guests can purchase a wedding present regardless of how big or small their budget may be.

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have found your venue as they may have restrictions.

Choose and tentatively book/pay a deposit for your

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Start working on your guestlist but don’t finalise until you

making decisions about style, numbers, venue etc.

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Plan the style of the wedding ceremony and reception

Hiring a wedding planner is best done now before you start

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venues may be booked on your preferred date.

9 TO 11 MONTHS PRIOR

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If you are having an engagement party, finalise the guestlist

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ANNOUNCE YOUR E N GAGE ME N T !

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Send out Save the Date cards so your interstate or overseas guests have enough time to book flights etc.

Your invitations should reflect you, so start thinking about the design of them.

Find your wedding attire and pickup any accessories like

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boutonnieres, bow ties, ties, cuff links you may want.

Start working on the attire for the wedding party and

Book your photographer and/or videographer.

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6 TO 8 MONTHS PRIOR

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4 TO 5 MONTHS PRIOR

arrange fittings.

Meet with and book a florist. What flowers, what style?

Choose your wedding cake or cheese tower.

Do you require a caterer or food truck? Going on a tasting with potential suppliers.

Start thinking about the wedding and reception entertainment by listening to potential suppliers’ demo’s or watching video clips.

Are you planning on a honeymoon? Start thinking about where you would like to go.

Arrange your tickets, money, passport sweety. And don’t forget about vaccinations & insurances if your honeymoon is overseas.

It’s time to finalise your guest list for caterers, reception, thank you cards etc.

Complete and submit the wording for all stationery and order it.

By now you should have chosen wedding rings and it’s time to order them.

Order your wedding invitations, they should be ready to be sent 8-10 weeks out from the wedding.

You may wish to select gifts for each other and for the wedding party.

Book a hairdresser and make-up artist and book for your trial as well as the wedding day.

Decide what form of transport you need for you and your guests (if required) and possibly accommodation for interstate guests.

Our Tip: You may want to hire a mini-bus/cars to transport your guests to and from the venue which allows everyone to have a great time.

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2 TO 3 MONTHS PRIOR Think about everything that you will want to wear other than the dress/suit /tux – jewellery, shoes, bow-tie, cufflinks and even your aussie bums!

Choose accessories and shoes for the wedding party and organise for your attendants to try on all the accessories including the shoes.

Do you require additional decorations for your ceremony or reception that are not included, such as pink flamingos, fans, disposable cameras, glitter or disco ball for the dance floor?

Collect your invitations and pop them in the post.

Confirm with the entire wedding party that attire, shoes and accessories are organised.

in any way, ask them now.

Choose a Master of Ceremonies. This may be a guest, a

It ’s ti m e to make a l i st of mu si c fo r yo u r c e rem o n y

aisle and sign the register?

What song would you like playing for your first dance?

What song would you like playing at your reception?

If you are going to have a final celebration (hens/ bucks) before the wedding, provide a list of names and addresses of who you would like to invite to the organiser.

Yo u may wi s h to ha ve a ha i r a nd ma ke - u p tr i a l before the weddi n g w hi c h w i l l e nsu re yo u get t h e lo o k you real l y want .

It also means your hairdresser and make-up artist know exactly what you want on the day.

Purchase anything required for the honeymoon. Luggage, Tickets, Insurance etc.

Send out invitations and maintain a record of acceptances and declines

You will need a final fitting and at the same time confirm when the dress/suit /tux is to be collected.

If your catering package doesn’t include drinks, now is the time to order them.

If required, arrange a babysitter or entertainment (games) for any children at the reception.

This is also a good time to organise a pet attendant. It’s a big day with lots of excitement and animals often get tired and/or scared at the number of people in one space, so plan-ahead of time and organise who will take care of them or where they will go after the ceremony.

Follow-up and confirm your honeymoon reservations.

Ve r y I m p o r t a n t ! ! G ive n ot ic e of in t e n t t o m a rr y ( NO I M ) t o t h e we d d in g off ic ia l a t le a st o n e m on th p rio r t o we d d in g d a t e .

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What song would you like playing as you walk down the

wine and see where it’s at.

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a n d recepti on.

Your gift registry may need a top-up, so grab a glass of

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professional MC, a DJ or the reception entertainer.

readings.

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If you want special guests to take part in the ceremony

It’s time to finalise the ceremony program, your vows and

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Decide what favours you would like and make or order them.

6 TO 8 WEEKS PRIOR

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Confirm fittings and delivery date of your suit /dress.

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P LA N N I NG

3 TO 5 WEEKS PRIOR Keep in contact with the wedding party and double check that they know exactly what is required of them Go get those wedding rings and ensure they fit!

Call any guests who haven’t yet RSVP’d to get the final count and confirm all reception details including menus and numbers Choose where your guests will sit and share the seating guide with the reception venue or caterers Place the names on your place cards and deliver them to

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the reception venue You may want to prepare an emergency wedding kit

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1 TO 2 WEEKS PRIOR Yo u m a y wis h t o c o n f irm wit h t h e fo llowin g ve n dors: MC Favours Florist Cake Maker Ceremony Location Photographer & Videographer Entertainment Party hire items

full of things you may need Tissues, sewing kit, phone

Decorations or specialty items that you have booked

charger, bandaids, hand wipes etc

Transportation Hairdresser and Makeup

2 DAYS BEFORE WEDDING This is a week for delegation! Find people to return

Accommodation Any guests who are doing readings, speeches or participating in the ceremony

hire items after the wedding, a time when you are

Honeymoon arrangements

likely to be jetting off on your honeymoon

This is a good time to begin packing for your wedding

You will probably be running around collecting things right now like your attire, accessories and everything you will need for the day Visit the reception venue to drop off favours and any unique items for the wedding day

night and honeymoon It’s time to plan who will be staying where and how they will be getting from the accommodation to the venue Weddings can be an all-day event so it’s important that there is food and drinks available for the wedding party Consider preparing a platter of nibbles and cold drinks

AFTER THE WEDDING

for people if you are planning a summer wedding Consider a hangover kit for the day after and not just for yourself but all your guests

Now the person you asked to return everything comes into play They need to ensure attire is returned, decorations, wedding gifts etc Check that all wedding bills have been paid in full Send Equally Wed some of your photo’s via weddings@equallywed.com.au Write thank you letters

You may need to pay cash for something on the day so find a trusted person to take care of these things

Image by Tony Potts Photography

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CRITICAL ELEMENTS

There are several things that will dictate the timing and location of your wedding.

Within the first few weeks of your engagement you will have worked out a rough budget which will impact the next three decisions.

The Venue: You may have your heart set on a particular venue, but some venues are booked months in advance so decide if this is more important than the date and/or guest numbers.

The Date: If you can be flexible with the date you can likely secure your preferred venue, albeit you may have to wait and you potentially could save some money if you chose an off-peak season.

find a venue to cater to your list. Our suggestion is to really refine your numbers as early as possible and that will assist your search for the perfect venue within your budget.

• Will you need nearby accommodation for you and/or guests?

coordinator in attendance?

Credit: McCrindle Research PTY LTD

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• Time limits and noise restrictions for those outdoor events and party people.

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• Do you want an external caterer or do you need a venue with catering services?

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• Do you want external planners/stylists/coordinators or an on-site venue

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• Will you have your ceremony and reception at the one venue?

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Other questions you may ponder about the above:

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Your Guest List: Whilst you might want to invite many of your friends you need to

PEAK TIME FOR WEDDINGS S E T T IN G T H E DAT E

also consider booking your wedding

Setting the date can be tricky. It comes

mid-week which will be less expensive

down to a combination of things that

and let’s face it, who wouldn’t take a

we discussed earlier as part of the

day off to celebrate with you?

’Critical Components’ article. Once you have decided the date, stick with it. Your family and friends will make changes to fit in with your day.

During the planning process, which we recommend you use this time to attend showcases during various seasons. Wedding showcases offer you a chance to explore a venue in a

Tying the knot on a public holiday may be tempting however there are some considerations that really need some thought. It may be convenient for interstate guests, it’s also an expensive time to travel, flights and accommodation alone would be in the hundreds for your travellers.

more relaxed setting with the ability

It’s also highly likely that there will

to talk to the staff openly. Generally,

be a surcharge on almost everything

they will have wedding professionals

which can impact the budget by 10%

(i.e. celebrants & photographers) there

– 20% to cover holiday loadings. When

as well to help with any questions

you are talking about a $10,000 or

regarding their services and the

$15,000 reception that can add up to

formalities of the ceremony. You can

an unbelievable champagne tower of

not only get some advice but also ask

the Billecart-Salmon variety.

for some tips at the same time.

Who doesn’t like to travel? Public

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holidays are a time when friends P EA K V E RS U S O FF P EA K

travel and often overseas holidays are

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can take several months to a year,

P U B LI C H O LI DAYS

Peak season tends to be in

booked in at these times of the year

Autumn and Spring, a time when

to maximise the amount of time away.

the temperature is delightful, we

Whilst it’s likely they would change

experience long daylight hours and

their plans, they may not be keen to

the colours of the landscape are at

do so if they have been planning an

their finest. For these reasons, peak

adventure for some time.

periods often attract a higher price with demand increasing around these times. The most popular months to tie the knot are March (autumn) and November (spring) with Saturday by far the most popular day to get married followed by Sunday.

S EAS O NS A quite note on the season front, think about your wedding photography and what you envisage in the background.

What flowers did you want at your wedding and will be in season? Off-

The Australian Bureau of Statistics

season flowers can be acquired but

reports the least popular months for

at great expense. Will your style or

a wedding are June and July. These

theme really match the time of year?

months are considered low season

Does it typically rain a lot during your

and therefore you may be to secure a

preferred month and will you need a

special for that time of year. You could

marquee as a back up plan?

WHY WEDDING INSURANCE? A n d rew Our Perfect Wedding Insurance

It’s time to plan your big day, choose your wedding date and start booking your dream reception venue and other wedding suppliers.

S UM M E R

Before you marry the love of your life and say I do in front of your loved ones, consider what would happen if something didn’t go to plan. Would

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you be able to afford a last minute

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cancellation or venue change? Not many soon to be wedding couples can.

Even the smallest weddings can without provision of a refund are

you are already aware of that may lead

how extravagant or intimate your

usually covered in the policy as well.

to a claim that may not be covered.

There is also cover for things like

H OW M U CH S H O U LD I I NS UR E M Y

additional costs for photographers

W E D D I NG FO R ?

not showing up on the day, wedding

As most wedding planners would

stressing about everything going to plan. You want to enjoy and embrace what the day is really about, LOVE.

documents and theft or damage of

advise, you need to have a budget

With costs including venue hire,

wedding items and there may also be

and understand all of the individual

catering, flowers, decorations, outfits

cover for someone getting injured at

wedding supplier contracts. Checking

and photography it is easy to see how

the wedding event.

how much the deposit is, when the

quickly it all adds up as well as how many suppliers are involved in your special day.

Different Insurance companies have different cover and limits so it’s important that you read the fine print

SO WH AT DOES W E DDIN G

to see what is included and if it’s the

IN SURANCE COVER?

right cover for you.

Policies can be different but they normally cover the cancellation or rescheduling of a wedding due to accident, unexpected illness or bereavement within the wedding party.

Cover for a supplier going out of business and loss of the deposit, or supplier cancellation at the last minute

Most wedding insurance policies are packaged so that you can choose the level of cover you need and it’s easy to work out the costs.

following payments need to be made, and what the refund policy is for each wedding supplier. You should make your decision based on the overall budget, how much you are paying for deposits and find a package that covers these aspects.

T H I NK A B O U T W E D D I NG I NS U RA NCE So when you’re doing your budgets

It’s also important to understand what

and working through the wedding

you’re not covered for, the main one

supplier contracts think about Wedding

being the wedding couple changing

Insurance. How much would that peace

their mind and if there are things that

of mind be worth to you?

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wedding is, you don’t want to be

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cancellations and disasters. Regardless

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experience disappointments,

Sydney Drag Queens

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Did you know that Equally Wed magazine has an

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and vendors that support Marriage Equality?

Sign-Up to the newsletter today to hear more www.equallywed.com.au | www.facebook.com/equallywed | www.instagram.com/equallywedau

2 9

spin those decks or sing a tune at your reception. Now wouldn’t that be fun!

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day extra special, Speaking of special, we even have Drag Queens who would love to

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We have hundreds of wedding professionals waiting to assist you to make your big

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online wedding directory where you can find venues

PICKING YOUR VENDORS

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AS MEMBERS OF THE LGBTI COMMUNITY WE NOW HAVE THE POWER TO CHOOSE THOSE WEDDING PROFESSIONALS WHO SUPPORT US, BUT HOW DO WE DEFINE SUPPORT, AND HOW DO WE PICK THE RIGHT WEDDING PROFESSIONALS TO AVOID AN UNCOMFORTABLE MISUNDERSTANDING OR EMBARRASSING SITUATION?

I know everyone is probably

S U PPORT

AS K A ND LI ST E N … CA R E FULLY.

celebrating the fact that marriage

There’s the physical support where

There’s a good chance many of your

equality is FINALLY here. We have

actions take place, people get involved

wedding vendors have been working

waited far too long for it. FACT. We

in the community and/or events and

in the industry for some time and they

have marched, protested and vocalised

a common fight is fought. Examples

could be considered experts in their

our cause until our voices broke like a

are: did the vendor march in marriage

field. When you ask questions, listen.

drag queen singing on Saturday night

equality rallies? Have they attended

It’s their turn to provide you with

at the Imperial Hotel! Now, we have a

any LGBTI fundraisers? Have they

information, their chance to make you

duty to select vendors and venues who

volunteered at any LGBTI support

feel comfortable and advise on how

have stood for marriage equality and

services? Have they donated to a

they would be there to work with you

marched alongside us in our protests.

LGBTI cause? Have they assisted the

on your wedding day. Listen to the

Whilst there are literally tens of

community in any way? If so, how?

language they use, the terminology

thousands of wedding professionals

Do you feel comfortable that they

out there the number who wish work

understand how you, as a same-

with LGBTI couples is greatly reduced.

sex couple, would want to celebrate

It’s now time to select those wedding

a wedding? Is there an assumption

A R E YO U B E I NG LE D U P T HE

by the wedding professional about

G A R D E N PAT H ?

your relationship and how it works?

There are a bunch of tactics that

(e.g. who wears the pants) Or do

anti-gay venues & vendors use to

deeply’ supported us.

they let you, unassumingly, tell your

avoid serving same-sex couples.

When it comes to planning YOUR

story? Ultimately, do you feel 100%

They can be harsh and up-front in

comfortable that your chosen vendor

the form of a straight out “No, we

will be able to understand you, your

don’t serve same-sex couples”. Then

partner, your family and your friends

there’s the more subtle approach

on your wedding day?

where they cannot confirm a date or

professionals who have over time, with actions and through visual representation, have ‘truly, madly,

wedding, here are our tips and questions to include when picking your wedding professionals. These can help you avoid an uncomfortable situation popping up in front of you or, even worse, your family and friends.

TOL E RA N CE VS CH A M P I O N You want to work with people who really want to make your big day special, not someone who tolerates you just for extra cash in their pocket.

Select vendors who champion marriage equality through their conversations, through their actions, through support and through publicly declaring that support. Check out their webpage and social media channels.

and if they seem to feel uncomfortable talking about you or your partner, it might be time to move on.

even a booking because they already have a booking that day, and then the same with the next date you suggest and the next date. Finally, there’s the price hike where instead of the venue costing $5000 as per the norm, it now costs $10,000. I have even heard of one venue that agreed with marriage equality but the catering staff did not, which left them in a bit of a quandary.

If you are becoming disparaged, move

E DU CAT I O N

vendor because it’s unlikely that a non-

There are a growing number of

supportive venue/vendor who hikes the

businesses that want to work with

price will be there to really support you

you on your wedding but have never

on your wedding day.

worked with a LGBTI couple. There’s

D IRECT ADVERTI S IN G Not all venues or vendors advertise

vendor but it will take more questions to really identify if they have the

Network that assist those businesses in understanding the LGBTI community and how to appropriately serve you on

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and it shouldn’t put you off a venue/

Masterclasses from The Equality

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directly to the same-sex community

now a ground-breaking series of

your wedding day.

and breathe same-sex weddings, so

to same-sex couples that means they

it’s important to know that the people

have you in mind. They have thought

delivering the training are very much a

about how a same-sex wedding is

part of the LGBTI community. Ask your

different, they have most likely talked

wedding vendor/venue if they have

about language, they understand

been trained by The Equality Network

terminology and are welcoming and

or look out for this partner badge on

inclusive. Check out our directory to

their website.

for your day. www.equallywed.com.au

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between two LGBTI people who live

However, if they are directly marketing

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The Equality Network is a partnership

your wedding day needs could be met.

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understanding to appropriately ensure

find the perfect wedding professional

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on and hire a more supportive venue/

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LUXURY MARQUEE AND TENT SPECIALISTS For the wedding of your dreams.

The finest marquees, tents and furniture for your perfect day.

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IN D U STRY

I NS I G H TS

FOUR TIPS ON PLANNING A MARQUEE WEDDING S UM M E R

Daniella McGregor (www.whiteumbrella.com.au)

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flexibility to choose your own caterer

enough parking on-site and even

that is meaningful to you. That could

and favourite wine/beer where-as

allocate a specific area for cars so you

be by the dazzling waterfront, at one

venues generally only allow their

don’t accidently have a car in every

of the beautiful venues within the inner

appointed caterer and their preferred

wedding photo when you were there to

city, in a gorgeous vineyard, or at your

wine list. The size of marquee you need

capture the views!

favourite beach.

will be based on the number of guests

and sizes to complement your space

you are expecting, the style of the event & the space available.

A N A LL-NI G H T E R There’s nothing worse than when you’re having the time of your life and

just the way you like it. You need to

C HOOS E O U T D O O RS

the venue announces ‘last drinks’. If

consider what style of marquee you

Imagine the blue sky, a ceremony

you want to pull an all-nighter, the first

prefer, framed, traditional, tipis or

by the lake and a reception in the

thing to check is if your preferred venue

cleared roofed marquees? Would you

garden sipping cocktails amidst a

has noise restrictions and what time

like windows and doors or completely

scene of rolling green grass. Choosing

does that come into play. Additionally,

open on one side? Then you look

an outdoor reception, no matter

you will need to consider are staffing

at things like flooring, carpet, hard

the weather, our sturdy marquee

costs, perhaps toilets and generator

flooring or rugs/matts which all need to

structures mean that you and your

that will power everything from the

compliment the table layout.

important guests will remain dry

speakers to the lighting.

A marquee wedding can be very cost effective, especially if you’re planning a wedding with guests in the hundreds.

Choosing a marquee means you only

and keep enjoying your wonderful reception. Our tip, ensure there’s air conditioning or heating included in the rental to keep your guests comfortable.

P LA NNI NG & ST Y LI NG Seriously consider having a planner or stylist come on-board to assist with the planning or managing the

pay a fixed cost depending on the

ACC ES S A ND PA R K I NG

wedding day. A planner can decorate

marquee size. Venues may charge

When you have multiple suppliers

the venue, take delivery of goods, deal

per head on the number of guests

delivering items, it’s important to have

with any challenges that may arise in

attending and that can end up blowing

direct access to the marquee so they

a professional manner leaving you to

your budget.

can off-load heavy items with ease.

enjoy the day ahead.

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Marquees are designed in all shapes

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It’s also important to ensure you have

blank canvas to create an occasion

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Marquee weddings may allow you the

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A marquee can virtually give you a

DP A DV E RT T E N

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DP A DV E RT T E N

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Credit: Manuel Vicente Photography www.manuelvicente.com.au

WEDDING PARTY STYLING

doesn’t need to follow tradition,

wedding doesn’t have to be

neither does their name. There

about fulfilling roles or sticking

are the obvious ones including

to what’s expected. As a couple,

“bridesman,” “groomsmaids,” or

you probably share some of your

“groomswomen”. For some out

closest friends and in which case

of the box terms, why not go for

you can create one joint wedding

“I Do Crew,” “Friends of honour,”

party instead of the usual two

“Commitment Crew,” “Bridesfolk,”

separate ones.

or “Groomsfolk”.

If you are choosing to have one

At a wedding, the ones having

whole group, then keep the

the most fun are often those most

palette the same for everyone.

comfortable with what they are

Or if you want the outfits to

wearing. From shapes to colours,

reflect each side of the couple,

to accessories, your wedding

change up the colours or tones to

party's attire should reflect each

differentiate.

person’s own style while holding

traditional arrangement of one person in a suit and the other in a dress. This is a classic formula,

for your wedding. While there are

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Some couples still opt for a

true to the overall look you desire

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P LAY U P O N T RA D I T I O N

some traditional guidelines based on age old rules, these are no longer steadfast.

easily updated and modernized

Anastasia Tushuizen supports

for a contemporary couple. The

couples to plan their wedding

dress and tuxedo combination

thoughtfully, respectfully and

extending the wedding party can

amazingly.

complement one another with colour accents incorporated into both dresses and tailoring.

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Just as your wedding party

up and have a little fun, your

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You may want to mix things

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W H AT ’ S I N A NA M E ?

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TO D I V I D E O R NOT

She also runs Carte Blanche Bride – the French way to Wed. bespokeweddingcoach.com.au carteblanchebride.com.au

One of the first things to discuss in

E merge n c y Fu n d

order to attain a ball park figure is

Set aside an emergency fund for things

the budget. It’s best to sit down and

that may inadvertently occur or in

work it all out with your parents, if

case you need some “fix it” money if

they are assisting with the financials.

something goes wrong. If you don’t

Work out a plan on who is paying for

spend it, then you have some extra

what expenses and who is making the

cash but it’s better to be safe and

decisions.

stress less knowing you have a backup.

It may be difficult at first being that

Here is a typical breakdown from

the topic is money, so tread lightly so

MoneySmart* readers on how they

people’s noses are not put out of joint.

paid for their wedding.

You may want to have a frank talk with your partner prior to meeting the parents about what type of wedding you’d like to have and what sort of guest numbers you envisage. It’s best

18% Used their Credit Card 56% Contributions from Parents 60% Got a Loan 82% Used their Savings

to give the parents a heads-up so they

Wed d i ng S a v in g T ip s

know the chat is coming which gives

• Start saving early and try and avoid

them time to look at their own finances

credit card debt which will be a bit

and can get on the same page.

of a downer after the honeymoon.

Our budget below is designed as a

• Reduce your guestlist and figure

guide only, so feel free to change the

out who you really want to

figures to suit your wedding style.

celebrate the day with.

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YOUR WEDDING BUDGET

35% Reception & Ceremony 20% Honeymoon 10% Wedding Party 10% Flowers 10% Photography 5% Entertainment 4% Invitations 6% Miscellaneous Sta yi ng On Budg et

• Have a wedding in Off-Peak time (winter or mid-week).

• Meet several suppliers and see what exactly they offer for their price.

• Spread your bills across a few months so it doesn’t feel like everything has hit you at once.

We would strongly advise on deciding on a system and sticking with it. There are plenty of apps around, which we detail later in the magazine, that can

But don’t forget to go out there and party like its 1999!

assist you with this and it might be worth getting a separate bank account

*www.moneysmart.gov.au/managing-

that’s used specifically for the wedding

your-money/budgeting/simple-ways-

so all expenses are in the one account

to-save-money/how-much-can-a-

and easily trackable.

wedding-cost

Carte BlanChe bride

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m e l bo ur n e & sy d n e y www.carteblanchebride.com.au

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www.whitelilycouture.com.au Brisbane | Rockhampton

Linzie Russo Photography Amber Clare Creatives Hair by Courtney

WHAT DOES A WEDDING PLANNER DO?

H OW M A NY H O U RS WO U LD A

to design a custom package to suit

P LA NNE R WO R K W I T H A COU P LE

your exact requirements, so you can

O N AV E RAG E ?

personalise your wedding and special

The planning time is dependent on

event every step of the way. This

budget, how many guests will be

ensures every aspect of your special

hosted, locations for the ceremony

event is uniquely tailored for you and

and reception as well as how many

within your budget.

suppliers, vendors and venues need to

Your wedding planner of choice should have experience in event design and production, venue and supplier relationship development, contract negotiation, logistics and budgeting – ensuring that you have a superior client service experience and outcome.

WHAT A R E T H E A DVA NTAG ES O F HIRIN G A W E D D I NG P LA NNE R ?

• They have the expertise and access across the wedding industry, for example, to vendors and venues.

• They will save you time and money by their depth of knowledge

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ON FIRST THOUGHT HIRING A WEDDING PLANNER MAY SEEM EXTRAVAGANT, BUT THE REALITY IS THAT PARTNERING WITH A WEDDING PLANNER AND AN EVENT COORDINATOR WILL SAVE YOU TIME, MONEY AND HEARTACHE.

A wedding planner works with you

and access to appointments,

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Why do I need one?

arrangements and contacts that can be seamlessly made for you.

This would otherwise take you months of researching, interviewing

be sourced, evaluated and contracted.

The numbers of hours you might spend doing this yourself can be upwards of 250 – 300+ hours, so the time factor alone makes hiring a planner something else you should really consider.

W H AT A R E T H E B I G G EST T I P S YO U CA N G I V E CO U P L ES P LA NNI NG T H E I R W E D D I NGS ?

1. Identify your budget, style (or theme) and preferred locations before you engage with suppliers, vendors and venues.

2. If you do opt for a wedding planner, make sure in the contract that your planner of choice has only one engagement on your day.

3. Finally, if there is no chemistry or

and chasing up of quotes for the

connection with a wedding planner

required suppliers and venues –

keep looking for the one that will be

they also know what is the perfect

the perfect fit for you, your partner

‘fit’ for each client and their budget

and the big day. This is the critical

as it relates to suppliers and

element that will ensure that those

vendors.

moments become the memories

• Experienced wedding planners are masters of planning and logistics – they can, or should be able to, instantly give you the information that you need regarding anything you might need to know and when you need to know it about your wedding planning and the day itself.

that you will hold dear and share for years to come.

WHAT IS A FULL-SERVICE WEDDING PLANNER’S ROLE?

where as others will just offer styling or design

would engage a full-service planner immediately

services without the planning and coordination

after you announce your engagement. They will

package.

oversee the logistics of your wedding planning such as; assisting with the selection of vendors style, contractual agreements, protocol and etiquette advice, the critical practical ‘day of’

ceremony to make sure your wedding party adheres to the timing that you have rehearsed. At the reception they won’t be there to ensure the the appropriate flow and pace with the agreed

partners with you to develop and deliver your

music. They also won’t be there to ensure the

unforgettable day – your way – without fuss. On

catering staff are aware of the timeline for all

your big day they are responsible for managing

aspects of the reception including your arrival,

the vendor and supplier timelines, organising

the speeches, the first dance or cake cutting and

payments that will need to be made as well as

ultimately your departure from what should be

resolving any problems should they arise – and

the most treasured day of your life to date.

no doubt they will! By the time your wedding day arrives, your wedding planner will thoroughly know you, your partner, your wedding party, and ultimately your wedding day vision. A fullservice wedding planner should provide you with

This should be your wedding planner’s role from the start of the day to the finish. Again, it is important to check with your wedding planner to confirm exactly what is in your package.

a service that feels like it is undeniably the most valuable investment you have made.

Kerrie Wood LUXE Unforgettable Events.

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pre-reception drinks and canapés are served with

Your wedding planner is a key player who

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event timeline as well as guest relations.

look a specific way, but they won’t be at the

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that have a ‘mutual fit’ with your budget and

For example, they will help make your wedding

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design services in their full-service package

every aspect of the planning process. Usually you

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Some full-service planners include styling and

your professional guide and mentor through

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A full-service wedding planner’s role is to be

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WHAT IS AN ON THE DAY COORDINATOR?

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is like a personal project manager who ensures your day runs smoothly.

confirmed. The coordinator will send out a run sheet to the vendors in the days leading up to the wedding so they all know exactly how they fit into your day and they will follow up with each of them the day before to make sure it’s all as it should be for you and your partner.

An on the day wedding coordinator is with you throughout the day and night.

They are there to keep the agreed timeline on track and to make sure every element in the ceremony and the reception happens as it should.

defer to the coordinator if they need assistance • Work with the photographer to organise family and the wedding party for photographs • Review table layouts and make sure place cards and wedding favours are set out as planned • Work with your MC to make sure

can have the unforgettable day and night of your life without having to stress over the coordination elements.

The coordinator is usually the first person to arrive and the last person to

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wedding to make sure everything is

you have ushers then they can

someone else, you and your partner

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suppliers and vendors before your

• Welcome and direct guests, or if

With everything being managed by

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They contact your venue and all your

A F E W TH I NG S T H EY D O I NCLU D E :

leave the venue – long after the last guest has departed! They ensure that the third-party supplier pack down goes off without a hitch and also make sure that no gifts or personal belongings have been left behind – yes,

they are across the run-sheet and

it really happens.

their role

As with the full-service wedding

• Ensure AV equipment is ready to go for speeches and video montages • Confer with the kitchen/venue staff about the progression and timing of the courses

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An ‘on the day’ wedding coordinator

planner, to avoid disappointment be sure that both parties are clear on the responsibilities of the on the day coordinator.

Hopefully you now have a better understanding of the differences between an on the day coordinator and a planner. Both have a valuable part in delivering your day – your way – without fuss, but the scope of each role is vastly different.

WHAT IS A VENUE COORDINATOR?

A Venue Coordinator assists with

been dealing with through the booking

everything to do with the venue itself

and function planning phases.

– such as food and beverages, basic setup, and accommodation if guests

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there for you to make sure that the venue functions and elements are to

If your ceremony is at a different

your satisfaction, he or she is not likely

location than the venue, which is

to be involved if a crisis with your dress

common, your on the day wedding

occurs, or Uncle Johnny has had too

coordinator will be there with you to

much to drink before the speeches, or

ensure everything goes according

when it comes time to pack up the gifts

to the timeline that you have agreed

or wishing well ensuring all valuables

to. This is across all the supplier

are secured for transport. It is also

elements including hair and makeup,

worth noting that sometimes the venue

photographer and videographer,

coordinators have more than one

transport and your wedding party. A

wedding on per day, especially at large

venue coordinator will not be at

venues.

the offsite ceremony and will have had no involvement in the critical supplier coordination process. If the ceremony is at the venue, then the venue coordinator will be there to help but would not be involved with any third-party supplier that has not been organised through the venue.

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will be staying at the venue.

Although the venue coordinator is

The venue coordinator usually only remains at the venue until the main meal is served then leaves – although some may stay until the cake is cut and served but this varies greatly from venue to venue. Always confirm in your venue contract the specifics of exactly what your venue coordinator has guaranteed will happen for you and exactly what services will be performed by them on the day. This way there is no room for misunderstanding or disappointment as it is not uncommon for the venue coordinator (on the actual day) to be a different person than the one you have

Also, generally, third party suppliers and or vendors such as your florist, transport, photographer, hair and makeup artists or musicians would not be contacted or coordinated by the venue coordinator unless it’s specified in your venue contract.

Kerrie Wood LUXE Unforgettable Events.

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LOGO DESIGN BRANDING INVITATION DESIGN STATIONARY

AMYKATE To discuss your project visit: amykate.com.au

WEDDING INVITATION CHECKLIST

This year may have only just begun but it is already shaping up to be the year of love. With the legal recognition of same-sex marriages, 2018 is looking to be a celebration of union like never before. No matter if you are planning a wedding as fabulous as Edina Monsoon or as classy as Tom Ford,

SAVE THE DATE CARDS (NON-ESSENTIAL)

your wedding stationary is the first

Important for destination weddings or if you are

will see of your big day, so make it a memorable one.

Whether you’re working with a

own personal style on your wedding stationary. Your stationary tells the

WEDDING INVITATION (ESSENTIAL) The most important piece of wedding stationary. The invitations let your guests know the details of the ceremony and reception.

RSVP CARD (ESSENTIAL)

the style of your wedding. Kraft paper,

essential so you know how many guests are coming

brown ribbon and dried flowers might

to celebrate your big day.

tell your guests to expect something

INFORMATION AND DIRECTIONS (CONDITIONAL)

organic, natural and outdoorsy. A minimal invitation with a marble backdrop gives a feel of sophistication, elegance and luxury. Colourful invitations express fun and up-beat

The more remote and fabulous the wedding the more essential this becomes. These cards can include information like maps, accommodation recommendations, directions and contact details.

nuptials.

PLACE CARDS AND SEATING PLAN (ESSENTIAL)

Equally as important is making sure

Essential for avoiding family feuds. Trust us, no one

that your stationary covers all the

wants blood on the dance floor.

details for your big day. Designers and online stores often offer stationary packages which can include as many or as few elements are you like. It’s important to make sure these elements are cohesive with one another.

To get you started, I’ve put together a

MENU CARDS AND WEDDING PROGRAM/ ORDER OF SERVICE (ESSENTIAL) Both are important for guests so they know what’s going on and so that you can ensure the day runs smoothly. These programs can include personal quotes and thank you’s for a special touch.

stationary starter guide to make sure

THANK YOU CARDS (ESSENTIAL)

you’ve got all your bases covered and

These don’t have to be fancy but they should match

give you a little taste of the trends to expect for 2018.

the invitation stationary stock and font.

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You’d never want the bar to run dry. RSVP cards are

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first point of expressing to your guests

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story of the day to come, and is the

and your guests excited for your big day.

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there’s always a way to inject your

a strict budget, these are nice to send out to get you

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designer directly or purchasing online,

getting married in the high-season. If you’re not on

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impression your friends and family

WHAT’S HOT YOU M AY N OT H AV E M EG H A N M A RL K E ’ S B U DG ET, B U T T H ES E H OT W E D D I NG IN V ITAT ION T R E ND S FO R 2 0 1 8 W IL L H AV E YOU F E E L IN G L IK E ROYA LT Y (NO M AT T E R H OW B IG O R S M A L L YO U R B U D G ET ) .

PRINTONWOOD.COM.AU

Paperless

Ever considered a website to announce your big day? A online presence can tell your story, announce the event details, link to a a link to your website can keep it personal while still providing a keepsake to frame from your special day.

MY PICK: Sonny and Aubrey templates via Squarespace SONNY TEMPLATE VIA SQUARESPACE

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registry and even let you RSVP online. Sending out an invitation with

Handwritten Fonts Pretty penmanship has always been a must for wedding invitations, but handwritten fonts have soared in the last few years. Traditional calligraphy has taken a back seat to bolder, looser and more unique fonts. Paired with a clean sans serif this can really make the perfect wedding invitation.

MY PICKS: MADINA SCRIPT, THE STYLED EDIT AND MAISON DE FLEUR VIA CREATIVE MARKET

MADINA SCRIPT VIA CREATIVE MARKET

MAISON DE FLEUR VIA CREATIVE MARKET

THE STYLED EDIT VIA CREATIVE MARKET

Real and Faux Textures

Know the lingo!

Whether minimal or decorative, rustic or sleek, textures and faux textures are a great addition to a wedding invitation. Marble is a trending backdrop for wedding invitations this year and can create the perfect sleek and sophisticated style. If you are striving for something a little more earthy and rustic, florals, wood grain textures and wood printing can really set the tone of your wedding.

GSM: GSM IS THE WEIGHT OF THE PAPER. THE HIGHER THE GSM THE BETTER QUALITY AND FEEL OF THE PAPER.

MY PICK: MARBLE AND WOOD PRINTING

SERIF/ SANS SERIF: A SERIF IS A SMALL LINE ATTACHED TO THE END OF A STROKE IN A LETTER OR SYMBOL. A TYPEFACE WITH SERIFS IS CALLED A SERIF TYPEFACE. A TYPEFACE WITHOUT SERIFS IS CALLED SANS SERIF.

Finishes

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MY PICK: BLIND EMBOSSING, WHITE PRINTING

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It’s all in the details. Sending plain invitation with no embellishments is a bit like going for a really fancy dinner and then skipping desert. An invitation is a keepsake for yourself and your friends and family, so spending that bit of extra money at the end is really worthwhile. Foiling is a big trend for 2018, especially in muted colours like copper and dusty pink. Blind embossing and letterpress are equally as popular and provide a very tactile and texturally beautiful invitation.

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D&D LETTERPRESS

Minimalism Less is more and sometimes simplicity is the ultimate in sophistication. A beautiful font pairing, some white space, a gorgeous stock and a muted colour palette can truly create a timeless, elegant invitation. Consider a letterpress or white print to really bring this together perfectly.

AMYKATE

AMYKATE

To contact Amy Kate for any design needs visit amykate.com.au

WEDDING APPS The market place is flooded with apps

Ver i ($10 0 fo r 1 eve n t )

that could assist you in the planning

Now that just about everyone has a

process. We have chosen a handful to

phone or two, you can now instantly

showcase below that may assist you in

access all those images your friends

your planning timeline.

take at any event. There’s no camera apps.

Simply create an event, invite guests

media and present it in one streamlined

via phone number or email, and Veri

package.

does the rest. As soon as the event

your honeymoon, tracking budgets

You could use the app to manage guest lists, tracking invites, RSVPS, address lists and vows alongside planning

starts, Veri automatically shares the photos and videos your guests take with their iphone camera - as they take them.

and prices, storing editing and sharing

Ga rd en A n swe rs ( Fre e) 1

photos and itineraries.

If you find a flower that you would

It’s great for collaborating due to the fact it syncs with cloud-based storage

what it’s called? Garden Answers is your friend, it will identify it for you.

Just snap a picture, tap submit and

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Dropbox or Google Drive.

love at your wedding, but are unsure

Weddi ng Hap py (Fre e)

instantly you will get the accurate

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Is made to organise different kinds of

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( Free or $13/ Month Pre mi u m)

uploading, no tagging, no separate

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E ver note

Wedding Happy includes a countdown

identity of the plant and detailed

timer to the day of your ceremony, lets

information about it. You can save it to

you know what tasks need to be done

your favourites and show your florist

when, and sends notifications when

when it comes time to show them what

tasks are due or vendor payments need

you want.

to be made. It allows you to manage your vendors, share your progress on social media and even assign tasks to the wedding party or friends. You don’t need a network connection to access the app, so even if you find yourself without wi-fi, you can still use it in airplane mode.

A l l S ea te d ( Fre e) Ditch the post-it notes and head online to AllSeated to build a 3D floor plan using standard goggles. Simply import your contacts and organise them into groups. You can arrange the tables, the dance floor, tableware, glassware, centre pieces and the linen.

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Photography: Max Kordyl

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Photography: Max Kordy Venue: The Pavilion Marina Mindarie

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INSIDE THE PARTY ROOM

If there’s one thing that I hope that I

then I’d already started to throw myself

never forget, it’s the sheer sense of

head-first into the hardest and most

emotional relief that I experienced

emotionally draining journalistic stories

when I came out as being transgender

that I could find, in order to try to even

to Warren Entsch within the confines of

momentarily escape from the river of

his parliamentary offices in Canberra

psychological poison that was flowing

back in September 2012.

rapidly throughout my mind.

Twisting, turning and burning the

Talking about mental health is never

candle from both ends, looking back

easy, particularly when it’s your own

it’s now evident that for all of my then

that you are discussing. However,

polished professional and masculine

when somebody helps you find a light

demeanour, that I was nothing more

in order to keep the darkness at bay,

than a powder keg waiting to explode,

after having some time to heal, it can

as the anxiety and depression that

become impossible not to feel the

I’d experienced as a result of not

need to repay that kindness forward to

being myself for years, being outed at

others.

university and then shoved back into the closet threatened to overwhelm me.

Sinking dangerously into despair, by

Now when I first walked into Warren’s office after being overwhelmed with the mother of all panic attacks on my

way across from the parliamentary

lives for themselves. Not only that, by

offices of Senator John Williams, I

showing me that I had nothing to fear

honestly didn’t know what to expect.

by finally being myself, he created

Emotionally and physically exhausted,

two role models for me, who I still look

I was about as spent as anyone could

towards for inspiration to this very day,

ever be, though still retain the ability

about what I’m capable of as a person.

to function. With a grit of my teeth and a dedicated spark in my eye, I was dedicated to surviving anything that could be thrown at me, even though I didn’t know how to move forward and

Now with that interview being nearly five years ago, I still can’t believe just how much it has changed my life for the better, without smiling.

had nearly been visited by the “Grim

In order to get the ball rolling and to

Reaper” a couple of times before as a

get a more stable feel for Warren, I

result.

decided to start by asking him what

Heroes come in all shapes and sizes, though I never could have known that one of my strongest champions and most heartwarming advocates would be found in a room with welcoming beautiful painting of stockmen driving cattle up at Normanton near Cairns, as well as the cheekiest looking skull of a

With Warren being the Chief Opposition Whip within the House sitting week no less, I knew that I’d be lucky to get through the full

occurring or an urgent call coming through. However, after asking him in depth about his background, his role within the parliament and having not been interrupted, I finally worked the courage up to ask him about his support for marriage equality and LGBTI rights in general.

people aren’t fully versed with the ins and outs of Parliament. Not only that, but it also allowed Warren to see that while I was going to ask him a series of tough and honest questions, that I wasn’t going to ambush him.

Straight after that, I moved onto how Warren became a supporter of the Same-Sex and Gender Diverse community. While I was aware that he’d stood up against various parts of the Coalition over the “Affirmation of the Marriage Act” in 2004, I was unaware of just how deeply he had engaged with this particular demographic throughout the remainder of the Howard Government. From standing up at a lot of Party room meetings through to taking the case of a highly decorated gay SAS soldier who was about to be deployed and

Little did I know that the answer that

wanted various securities in place

Warren was about to give me would

financially and otherwise for his life

not only save but ultimately change

partner if he was killed or severely

the direction of my life, over the course

injured in Afghanistan to the Prime

of the following minutes. Needless to

Minister, the words that flowed from

say, not only did I loose the weight of

him in a kind, considerate, deeply

decades worth of guilt and fear when

respectful and honest manner packed

he told me about the story of his close

a punch.

friend of his, but he showed me that people with a transgender background such as myself have always been able to create long, productive and valuable

For me though, the key moment in this interview came when Warren stated that during his youth, he had worked on a rural station with a

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without either a division of the House

according to Party lines etc.) most

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fifteen minutes that I’d been offered,

MPs and Senators so that they vote

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of Representatives and it being a

being a “Whip” means, (e.g. organising

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my life.

as myself are fully versed with what

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grinning crocodile that I’d ever seen in

Whip” entails. While Journalists such

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calf-skin rugs, a humongous and

his role as the “Chief Opposition

cousin of one of the women that he

By hearing those words though, I was

was dating. Warren said that every

finally able to realise though that this

weekend he’d buy this particular guy

was a journey that I no longer had to

alcohol, as he’d go to the pub with the

take solely on my own, and that I’d only

rest of the men, though barely have

ever become a better person out of, as

enough money to cover his expenses.

a result of just being able to be myself

Furthermore, the more this particular

without fear or shame of who I am.

guy drank, the more feminine he became. During this time, Warren said that he had to defend his friend on a number of different occasions, due to the dangerous situations that they regularly found themselves in by trying to be themselves in a deeply traditional

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and having grown to the point where I can no longer recognise who I was as a person back then, I can honestly say that being who I was meant to be and experiencing the societal change that’s occurred in relation to what are essentially human rights throughout

After not seeing his close friend and

the course of the past five years has

former workmate for a number of

ultimately been worth it. Furthermore,

months, Warren asked the parents

by wearing my heart on my sleeve and

of his girlfriend at the time what had

helping others throughout that time via

happened to him. During this time, a

programs like Safe Schools Coalition

young woman walked through the bar

Australia, The Equality Campaign and

they were staying at. Instead of buying

the various media productions that

alcohol, Warren’s former colleague

I’ve been involved in throughout that

Alana Young, had been saving her

time, I feel that I’ve also been able to

money so that she could start her

burn away the anger and self-loathing

transition, while paying her own way

that I was experiencing throughout

through High School, University and

that time, while finally dedicating my

Medical School. Warren then stated

emotional energy towards things that

that Alana is now a Doctor who tends

are ultimately positive, both for myself

to the medical needs of rural and

and others.

remote communities within Far North Queensland.

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rural area.

After having made the decision to live

Given how toxic different parts of society (and politics in general) can be,

Now if it wasn’t for the fact that at

it’s important that we all realise that

that moment Warren told me about

regardless of politics and ideology,

the story that he shares with “Doc

there’s always role-models, sponsors

Alana” (who is now also a surgeon),

and mentors out there that we can

I sincerely doubt that I’d still be alive

look to guidance, regardless of our

now, as the advice and guidance

own personal situations. From the then

that I received from Warren, his wife

Chief Opposition Whip to all of the

Yolonde and his superb staff at the

members of the Parliamentary Friends

time, essentially released a pressure

of LGBTI Australians, members of the

valve within me that had been waiting

SAS and even a Doctor in Far North

to explode. While attitudes are rapidly

Queensland, there’s always somebody

changing within rural areas in regards

willing to listen and offer support, if we

to both gay and lesbian issues, back

are willing to look for them.

in 2012 there was (and still is) a lot of animosity towards a lot of Trans people such as myself, which only served to make the pressure that I was putting myself under in order to survive, just that much harder.

While for the vast majority of people the most prominent examples of this would be the overwhelming victory of the “Yes” campaign throughout the marriage equality survey, the sheer scale of support for LGBTI people

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such as Christine Forster and Virginia

Equality bill into both the Senate and

Flitcroft with taking photos at one of

the House of Representatives and then

their official wedding functions, I know

finally the parliament breaking out in

that I’ve had just as big an influence on

song after the bill’s passing, for me

others as they’ve ultimately had upon

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these spectacular beacons of support

myself.

are dim in comparison to what I’ve witnessed both privately and behind the scenes. From the warmest of hugs from Warren and his staff upon coming out to them, through to kind words and deeply inspiring offers of guidance from people such as Tracey Spicer, Hugh Riminton, Mark Colvin, Senators Dean Smith and Sarah Hanson-Young,

Life is there to be lived, spectacularly and with all of it’s glory. Throughout every day for the rest of my life, I’ll be grateful to my friend Warren for teaching me that lesson and allowing me to pass it on to others. The world is full of unhappy people, so why hate upon somebody for being happy?

Graham Perrett and others throughout

Such positive messages of hope and

the course of the past five years, I’ve

compassion show that marriage

been blessed with the opportunity

equality is just the first of many LGBTI

to not only experience the changing

related rights that are ultimately going

course of history, but help to mould

to come our way.

its future with my own public and private insights as well. Furthermore,

Contributor: Kate Doak

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by being entrusted by close friends

the introduction of the Marriage

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expressed by parliamentarians during

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THE LEGAL IMPACT OF ‘I DO’

Preparing to marry is an exciting

Let’s say you have assets such

Marriage is a major step in

time, however it is important

as property, shares or other

terms of your commitment to

that couples looking at taking

investments before you entered

your partner and can mean

this step do not forget about the

into the relationship. Perhaps

that you are essentially joining

legal implications. In this article

you have worked hard for them

each other and your assets

we want to briefly explore two

or they have been inherited

together – kit and caboodle

of those, firstly, asset protection,

from the family. In this case you

so to speak. A BFA can set

best known as a pre-nuptial

may want to secure these with

some clear boundaries around

agreement, and the effect

a Binding Financial Agreement

your assets in the event you

marriage has on your Will.

(BFA), most commonly known as

separate, providing peace of

a pre-nuptial agreement. A BFA

mind. Of course, a BFA can be

ASSET PROTECTION

amended or nullified at any

there is a disparity between

time by the parties (and can be

elation of a new-found love

assets or there are pre-existing

set aside if there are issues in

and relationship or are about

children to whom these assets

its drafting or enforceability),

to join in marriage to formalise

are intended to go one day.

however they are considerably

if it does not last’ scenario.

However, the reality of life is, that not all relationships are

is, that under the law, once people have lived together for two years or more, or have

easier to put in place early on and can save a lot of headache, stress and costs later – should the relationship not sustain.

created a financial situation

In order for a BFA to be legally

that causes a disadvantage to

binding, it must be drafted by

We may not be too fussed

them in not getting a property

a lawyer and each party must

about the ‘things’ we

settlement, or had a child

have received independent

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accumulate during our being

together, they are entitled to

legal advice. The lawyers that

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forever.

One thing most often overlooked

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the time one thinks of the ‘what

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an existing one, it is usually not

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is entered into most often when

When we are swept up in the

together, thinking that we

make an application in the

provided the independent

can find ways to split these

Family Court or Federal Circuit

legal advice must each sign

up evenly in the case of a

Court for a property settlement.

a declaration which becomes

separation. But when it comes to pre-existing assets, and especially high-value items, this may play out very differently if the relationship breaks down.

Of course, most people enter into relationships for love, however if the relationship breaks down money (and assets) have a way of changing people’s attitude and things can get messy. So, if you have assets which you would want to protect for their intended beneficiaries, then it is a good idea to enter into a Binding Financial Agreement also known in some parts of the world as a pre-nuptial agreement before travelling too far into a new relationship.

part of the BFA. If you think that, especially for the initial time together while you are establishing your relationship, you want to keep your assets protected, speak to a lawyer.

T HE

L EGA L

I M PACT

OF

‘ I

D O’

THE OTHER LEGAL SIDE-EFFECT OF STEPPING UP YOUR COMMITMENT IS YOUR WILL.

D O ES M A R R I AG E I M PACT YOU R S U P E RA NNUAT I O N O N D EATH? Superannuation does not necessarily pass by your Will. You can direct 2 0 1 8

your superannuation company to pay your benefits to a specific person or

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people on your death. This can either be through your Will, or outside of your Will, through a document called a Binding Death Benefit Nomination

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(BDBN). Without a BDBN, it is up to the receives your money.

While your marriage does not impact who receives your superannuation directly there are only certain people your super can be paid to, and

Photography : Carmen Hickey

marriage very clearly includes your

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superannuation company as to who

In most cases your marriage will revoke

your partner, and not general in nature.

your Will, meaning that you would no

You can re-do your Will prior to getting

longer have a valid Will in place once

married and include the contemplation

you are married. However, marriage

of marriage clause, as this will ensure

does not revoke a Will when a specific

that your marriage does not then

clause is included in your Will, called

revoke your Will.

a ‘contemplation of marriage’ clause.

While this clause is often included in the Wills of opposite-sex de-facto couples, it typically would not have been included in same-sex couples Wills, as until very recently there was no prospect of marriage.

WHAT IF I H AV E B E E N M A R R I E D OV E RS EAS ?

If you have been married overseas, your marriage is now recognised in Australia. Potentially this recognition of marriage has the same impact on your Will as a marriage in Australia - that is,

This means that you should check

to revoke your Will. While this question

your Will to see if it includes a

has not yet been resolved, it would

contemplation of marriage clause, and

be prudent for couples who have wed

if not then you should re-do your Will.

overseas to re-do their Wills to ensure

It is important to note that this clause

that they remain valid.

should be specific to the marriage to

spouse in that group. When you re-do your Will you should also ensure that your BDBN is updated. Whether it is appropriate for it to go through your Will or outside of it depends on several factors, and you should discuss this with your lawyer.

W H AT A B O U T CH A LLE NG ES TO YO U R W I LL? Will challenge laws vary between different states, so it is important to talk with your lawyer about this if you have any concerns. However, as a general guide, marriage can make it harder for other family members to challenge your Will, and can make it easier for your spouse to challenge in the event that you have excluded them from your Will.

T HE

L EGA L

I M PACT

OF

‘ I

D O’

HOW A R E YO U R O R YO U R

‘ I D O’

S POU S E ’ S CH I LD R E N A FFECT E D ?

Most importantly, clear and timely

If your spouse has children from a

communication with your partner,

previous relationship, your marriage

husband/wife (to be) about how you

will classify those children as your

wish to manage your assets in case

step-children, and likewise if you have

of separation or death is the best

children from a previous relationship

way forward and can make a sound

your spouse will be recognised as

foundation for a happy future together.

their step-parent. Potentially this may

Speaking with your children and family

affect those children’s ability to claim

about your intentions for your Will

on their new step-parent’s estate or

before your death goes a long way to

superannuation.

helping prevent family conflicts later.

Thankfully though, blended families are nothing new to estate planning

Happy planning, and all the best for your relationship and marriage!

lawyers and there are a variety of approaches that can be taken to

what can be done comes down to how your assets are owned, so if you’re

Lewis Holdway Lawyers

Principal at Legal Essentials & Natalie Fielding, Principal and

together - especially real estate - it is worth a call to a lawyer to get some advice on the best way to do this.

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looking at purchasing a new asset

Accredited Specialist in Family Law at

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depending on your situation. Much of

By Jessica Amberley,

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accommodate all family members,

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Buying a House?

Need to make your Will?

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Long-term relationship?

Marriage?

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Ivory tuxedo jacket: Mister Mister ‘Machito’ shawl lapel tuxedo. Ivory four season wool with matching satin lapel.

Shirt: DÉCLIC SD Floral Bed Print Shirt in Blue Hat: Strand Hatters Shoes: Bally (Opposite) Velvet Jacket: Mister Mister ‘Machito’ peak lapel jacket. Midnight blue velvet.

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MISTER MISTER AUTUMN/WINTER ADVICE Daniel Narvaez (www.whoismrmister.com)

Coming into the cooler months,

All the above being said, the more

not so tuxedo ‘Dizzy’ range which

texture and tone are our greatest

traditional form of dress should not be

incorporates tuxedo looks with more

ally. With the change in season

forgotten and a classic tuxedo should

contemporary silhouettes. Wearing

comes a great change in scenery and

not be too far from mind. Velvet jackets

shapes and designs in a more

environment, meaning we’re able to

in shades of blue, burgundy or even

contemporary way in combination with

experiment with richer colours and

green with a contrasting black trouser

fuller more textured fabrics provides us

fuller fabrics accompanied by design

is amazing. With a more daring trouser

with a more interesting and relevant

which can range from the traditional

option even being a blackwatch tartan.

outfit befitting of our time.

Mister Mister, an advocate of the

If we’re going to express ourselves

diverse silhouette, stylistically believes

through our dress we should be able

in putting together looks that will

to have a little bit of fun - after all

work throughout the year irrespective

bumping conformity is fun, right?

to the more contemporary. Textured wools in all shades of navy and grey are always an amazing choice, but we also are able to work with classic Prince of Wales’ and Glencheck’s which bring out amazing Houndstooth.

of the event. So we’ve created the

Green Suit: Mister Mister ‘Dizzy’ Shawl lapel tuxedo. Emerald green wool suit.

Shirt: DÉCLIC Falter Print Shirt Shoes: Bally (Opposite) Velvet Jacket: Mister Mister ‘Machito’ peak lapel jacket. Midnight blue velvet.

(Opposite) Pants: Grey check - Mister Mister ‘Dizzy’ peak lapel tuxedo. Grey micro-check wool suit.

(Opposite) White Shirt: Institchu

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CLOTH ING /ACCES S ORIES Suits: Mister Mister Floral Shirts & Assorted Handkerchiefs: DÉCLIC White Shirt: Institchu

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Suit: Grey check - Mister Mister ‘Dizzy’ peak lapel tuxedo. Grey micro-check wool suit.

Shirt: DÉCLIC SD Floral Bed Print Shirt in Blue Shoes: Bally

Bow Ties: Le Noeud Papillon and Politix Hat: Strand Hatters Shoes: Bally Watch: Cartier R i ng: Bulga ri

CONTRI BUTORS Photography: Same Love Photography @samelovephotography Assistant: Nivelo Miller Model: Peter Bowen @pierre_laurent_b Make Up Artist: Sabrina Melei @sabrinamelei Hair: Steve Miller Agency: Blask Design @blask_design

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Same Love proudly specialises in same-sex couple photography.

Based in the inner west of Sydney and now in Collingwood, Melbourne, we are gay owned and operated and understand the wonderful dynamics between same sex couples and families. We cater for surprise proposals, engagement celebrations, wedding photography, along with family portraits and private events.

The team loves to travel and service other interstate capitals, along with international destinations. 2018 Europe dates available between June and September. Chat to us today.

CONTACT: 0424 736 662 EMAIL: frank@samelove.com.au WEBSITE: www.samelove.com.au FACEBOOK + INSTA: @samelovephotography STUDIO SYDNEY: Balmain STUDIO MELBOURNE: Collingwood

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YOUR MUST-HAVE WEDDING REGISTRY ITEMS

Take it from me, darlings, these are the

the ultimate wedding registry item

would be fabulous to take you behind

top picks you definitely want to find a

and I double as live entertainment too

the scenes and show you what it

space for on your wedding registry this

– and we all know you all love a good

really is like to be a same-sex wedding

year:

double, Darlings!

entertainer. Here we go…

- a retro stand mixer in powder blue

Actually I’ve been living a double life

Alison & Talie tied the knot on August

for 10-years now. I’ve had the pleasure

16th 2015 at Sydney’s iconic Dunbar

of not only being a highly sought-after

House, Watson’s Bay. The girls

luxury item, but also one of Australia’s

celebrated their union with a modern

most in demand live-singing drag

day Jewish ceremony, with the sun

queens. I’m your go to ‘girl’ if you want

setting over beautiful Sydney Harbour.

- d yson’s upright vacuum – it’s suction is second to none - a ThermoMix Pro – great for actual food and liquid dinners Oh, and a designer named Prada

to raise the bar at your wedding.

The girls enlisted me to get the party

Clutch. Yes me! Your wedding registry

With the recent legalisation of same-

started with their favourite tunes.

isn’t complete unless you’re requesting

sex marriage in Australia, which I am

Picture me the 6-foot something

this season’s latest Prada Clutch. I’m

beyond excited about, I thought it

songstress leading the reveal of the

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also allows me to meet lovely couples,

to a real dinner and a show.Out on

like Alison & Talie, that appreciate the

stage is where the magic happens.

same things in life as me. They’re at

It’s where I get to entertain people of

a point in their lives where they want

all age; children right through great

to share their love for one another

grandparents. But for this wedding the

and they want to have a bloody good

bridal room was where the real magic

time doing so. It’s exactly where I am

happened. It was here that I really

in my life with my recent engagement

got to chat with the brides and get

to Gavin, my partner and manager of

to know them personally. So much so

8-years.

that we have remained connected ever since and even hit up the New York gay scene together sipping cosmos and watching drag shows on a recent vacation.

I’ve included some happy snaps from their wedding. Don’t they just look gorgeous? Oh, and I don’tlook too bad myself, do I Darlings?

I feel truly blessed to say that I get to spend time with so many newlyweds’ & be a part of their special day. It really is the fondant on the wedding cake for an entertainer like me.

Well Darlings, I best be off. Time for my green tea facial and glass of bubbles.

It’s hard work looking this god damn pretty you know.

MWAH! P.C. xxx

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with family & friends being treated

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not only fulfils my desire to perform but

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Being a same-sex wedding entertainer

between elegantly decorated tables

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bridal party, strutting my stuff in

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Venue / Wedding Planners: Dunbar House, Watson’s Bay Photographer: Nadine Saacks Talent: Sydney Drag Queens

STUNNING LOCATION DELICIOUS FOOD SUPERB VENUE

Waterfront Function Centre offers a unique wedding venue with beautiful water and mountain views across the Mersey River with service and food to match.

All menus and prices are listed on our website, and the chef is more than happy to discuss your menu options to suit your personal taste and st yle.

17 Devonport Road, Devonport Tas. 7310

PHONE:

03 6424 6200

Email: enquiries@water frontdevonport.com

40175 Waterfront Functon Centre - Advert.indd 1

12-01-2018 2:17 pm

www.longviewfarm.com.au

ph: 0413 508 740

Longview Farm is a beautiful 40 acre riverside property in the hinterland of the Manning Valley (40km west of Taree NSW). Our packages include exclusive use of the property for 4 days, accommodation in the ‘Rotating house’ (www.rotatinghouse.com.au), use of our large reception barn which features a world class sound and lighting system and an alfresco balcony overlooking the Nowendoc River. There are many picturesque ceremony locations to choose from, as well as a range of rustic furnishings.

We encourage freedom and flexibility for every couple to make their wedding just as they desire. This is a destination wedding venue like no other.

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SONGS FOR YOUR WEDDING DAY

Whilst it is fun thinking about what you

MA DON N A

would play at your wedding reception

“Material Girl”

“A Simple Love”

there’s also songs you may want to

“Like A Virgin”

“I’m The Only One”

put aside for the transport to and from

“Vogue”

the wedding venue, the first dance, the ceremony and perhaps even when you are getting prepared.

You may want to think about the venue, the atmosphere and mood when it comes to selecting your songs.

BE T T Y W H O “Somebody Loves You” “Human Touch” BRON S K I B EAT “Smalltown Boy”

M E LI S SA E T H E R I D G E

G LO R I A G AY NO R “I Will Survive” T H E LM A H O U STO N “Don’t Leave Me This Way” This Motown Hot 100 No. 1 hit was appropriated by the gay community as

Now that marriage equality has been

DIA N A RO S S

an anthem for friends lost to the AIDS

legislated, l bet those lists are going to

“I’m Coming Out”

epidemic. As part of a commissioned

incorporate some powerful lyrics. We have put together some you may want to include, some that have messages about equality and some for pure celebration.

After seeing three drag queens impersonate Ross at a New York discotheque, Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards were inspired to write something for her gay fandom. Ross

’public space statement’, artist Nayland Blake juxtaposed the title of the song against an image of a bouquet of flowers with their tangled roots showing.

C ECE PENI STON

almost got cold feet releasing it, luckily

P ! NK :

“Finally”

she didn’t.

“Let’s Get This party Started”

If you never thought marriage equality

ROBYN

would happen in your lifetime, “Finally”

“Dancing On My Own”

SIA

sums up everyone’s feelings up

“Show Me Love”

“Cheap Thrills”

perfectly.

T EGA N & SA RA

CA R LY RA E J E P S E N

BEYONCE

“Living Room”

“Call Me Maybe”

“Love On Top”

“The Con”

“All the Single Ladies”

“Raise Your Glass”

GEORGE MICHAEL

E D S HE E RA N

A DA M LA M B E RT

“Freedom!”

“Thinking Out Loud”

“Time For Miracles”

“Amazing”

“Shape Of You”

“Too Funky” WH AM! : “Everything he Wants” “Wake Me Up Before you Go-Go” “I’m Your Man”

“True Colors” Inspired by her lesbian sister, Lauper

Colors Fund, a nonprofit dedicated to ending homelessness for LGBT youth.

“All The Lovers”

LORDE “Green Light” C HERYL LYNN “Got To Be Real” Do you remember this in Will & Grace?

Will is singing the song in the mirror while shaving, to which Grace quips, "We're just like fifty men and a mirror ball away from being a gay disco”.

SYLV ESTE R “You Make Me Feel” The uber-fabulous Sylvester was so

reception dance floor.

SA M S M I T H “Stay With Me”

beloved by the San Francisco gay

J ACK J O H NS O N

community that they gave him a

“Better Together”

standing ovation at the 1988 Castro Street Fair that lasted more than 10 minutes.

LA DY GAG A “Born This Way” RIC KY M A RT I N “Private Emotion” C U LT U RE CLU B “Love Is Love” Boy George knew what was up and sang about the universality of love and lovers in this 1984 classic.

PAT T I LA B E LLE “If Only You Knew” M A RY LA M B E RT “She Keeps Me Warm” S I ST E R S LE D G E “We Are Family” While the four members of Sister Sledge are actual sisters, the song took on a deeper meaning with the gay community being one big family.

T H I S P LAY LI ST I S AVA I LA B LE T H RO U G H S POT I F Y U ND E R OU R P RO FI LE “EQ UA LLY W E D " .

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“Firework”

the USA and it has become a hit on the

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KAT Y PERRY

Supreme Court landmark decision in

“If I Could Turn Back Time”

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KY LI E MI NOGUE

This was released just before the

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career. Lauper co-founded the True

“I Still Love You”

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has been an advocate throughout her

“Y.M.C.A”

J E NNI FE R H U D S O N

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CYNDI LAUPER

V IL LAGE P EO P LE

S u nr i se H ot A ir B a llo o n in g ,

the rest of the country in welcoming

A l i c e S pr in g s

marriage equality earlier this year,

If you’re about to propose, you may

with some 60.6 per cent of Territorians

be too nervous to take in the view as

backing the potential law change. From

you float above the red desert sands

the Red Centre’s rustic landscapes

in a hot air balloon as the first sunlight

immortalised in Priscilla Queen of the

creeps over the horizon. When the

Desert, to the tropical Top End with

deed is done, clink champagne glasses

its lush parks and waterfalls, the NT

with your new fiancé while floating

is a must for newly engaged couples

through the skies with a bird’s eye view

looking for the perfect wedding or

of Australia’s Red Centre - it’s hard

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honeymoon destination in 2018… all it

to imagine a more uplifting place to

takes is one ring from you!

propose.

Territory tourism operators package

outbackballooning.com.au

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DESTINATION WEDDINGS NT

everything from engagement escapes with an indigenous twist and sunset harbour cruises in Darwin, to adventurous safari getaways in Kakadu and sunrise hot air ballooning over Alice Springs. And with the ink barely dry on the yes vote, the folks at Tourism NT have handpicked a few of the best destinations, experiences and venues for those looking to propose, marry and celebrate in 2018 and beyond.

L i tc hfi e l d Na t io n a l Pa rk , D a r win a nd S u r ro u n d s An uber-popular day trip destination for outdoor weekend warriors, Litchfield National Park is home to heart-stoppingly beautiful landscapes.

Plunge into diamond-hued waterholes beneath the spring-fed waterfalls of Florence and Wangi Falls, or soak in the gentle three-tiered cascade shaded by rainforest at Buley Rockhole. If you’re outdoorsy types who like to camp it up by pitching a tent or maybe

WE PUT THE ‘GORGE’ IN GORGEOUS, SO HERE ARE THREE GORGEOUS SITES TO POP THE QUESTION.

casting a line or two, pop the question here with Mother Nature as your witness. northernterritory.com/darwin-andsurrounds/litchfield-national-park S kyd i v i n g U lu ru , U lu ru If you’re taking the plunge, nothing proves commitment more than jumping out of a plane and hurtling back to earth with the one you love. For those planning an adrenaline-pumping proposal, SkyDive Uluru is offering married-couples-to-be a HD video and photo package of their jump as a memento. skydiveuluru.com.au

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I m a g e : A lex Pai n e U l ur u

A DV E RTO R IA L

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D ESTI N ATI O N

WE D D I N G S

N T

N itm i l uk (Kather i ne) Go rge , Ka t her i ne With dramatic rock faces, a bubbling river and rock pools, it is easy to understand why Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge is so special to the Jawoyn people and visitors alike. This GORGEous spot provides an aweinspiring ceremony location and, when the wedding is done and dusted, your reception meal at the luxurious Cicada

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Lodge combines native bush foods with a decadent contemporary menu. northernterritory.com/katherine-andsurrounds/nitmiluk-katherine-gorge Kin g s Canyon Reso r t , U l u r u If you want to walk in the tyre tracks of Priscilla, then there are few spots

Im age: S a m E a rp Nitm iluk (Ka therine) Gorge, Ka therine

in the NT more beautiful than the grooves you’ll find on the Walpa

S ky C i t y D a r win , D a r win

Pe e We e’s a t t h e Po in t ,

Gorge walk. You’ll also be walking in

If you want larger tropical weddings

D a r win H a rb o u r

the 400 million-year old history of the

with a touch of NT class, Darwin

You think Sydney Harbour is big? Think

Pitjantjatjara Anangu, for whom the

is a great option. The capital has a

again. Laidback Darwin Harbour is

ancient Kata Tjuta mountains of Kings

host of accommodation, and indoor

seven times its southern little brother

Canyon in Watarrka National Park are

and outdoor ceremony and reception

and has none of the hustle and bustle.

sacred. The rugged red landscape is

venues. One of the best is the luxurious

To take it all in, head up to East

the spiritual heart of Australia and one

SkyCity Darwin, with its lagoon-style

Point Reserve, just outside the CBD,

of the most beautiful places to hold a

swim-up bar and decadent onsite

where Pee Wee’s at the Point can roll

small wedding and reconnect to the

day spa for pre and post wedding

out the red, or rainbow, carpet. The

country.

pampering. Perched on Mindil Beach

menu reflects the produce, climate

with views across the Arafura Sea, the

and multiculturalism of the Northern

resort is the tropical paradise you’ve

Territory, with wild-caught seafood

always dreamed of for your big day.

served with locally-grown Asian

And, with Darwin’s Asian and domestic

vegetables and tropical fruits. But

flight connections, it’s a great choice if

really, it’s all about the view… and you!

For an unforgettable way to end your special day, the Kings Canyon Resort offers a five-course wedding feast under five-million outback stars. kingscanyonresort.com.au

you’re inviting international guests. skycitydarwin.com.au

peewees.com.au

WINE FILLED HONEYMOONS

Every couple’s idea of the perfect

Getting around wine regions can be

Autumn is harvest time for both food

honeymoon will be different. It will

fun and relaxing; some have bike hire

and wine in many regions. Warm days,

reflect their interests and style.

where you ride between wineries and

crisp nights autumn leaves, crackling

That’s why I couldn’t think of a better

your purchases are delivered to your

fires, roasted chestnuts, road-side

honeymoon than one surrounded by

accommodation at the end of the day.

produce stalls, markets and festivals

wine.

You may like to take advantage of the

worth travelling for. Orange in NSW

many tour options. Some are quite

Central West springs to mind, as does

structured, others more hop-on hop-off

the Southern Highlands, south west of

in style. Private tours in all sorts of cars

Sydney.

Wine is not a solo player here. It hangs out with great scenery, fabulous regional food, iconic restaurants, breweries, distilleries, accommodation ranging from a romantic stone cottage to a cutting-edge resort. Its friends include attractions such as sights and surfing beaches to name a few. Perfect for mixed marriages (where wine is not the only favourite

whilst being mindful of spitting your tastings into the barrel provided. Yes, whilst spitting in public is generally frowned upon, it is encouraged in wineries.

The season that you get married in may influence your choices.

of North East of Victoria including Rutherglen, Beechworth, Glenrowan, King and Alpine Valleys have plenty to offer. These regions have brilliant Autumn displays, loads of romantic accommodation and food to die for– look at Milawa–not to mention world renowned wine styles, Muscat anyone?

Winter honeymoons–go romantic or go

or longer honeymoon, even overseas.

A summer wedding lends itself to

home. Accommodation worth staying

You can visit several regions as often

wine regions in coastal regions such

in for, with great fireplaces naturally.

they are quite close together, or settle

as Margaret River south of Perth,

Think regions with indoor attractions,

into one that you really want to explore

Mornington Peninsula just south-east

historic buildings, galleries, character

allowing plenty of time for relaxation

of Melbourne, McLaren Vale south of

filled pubs and cosy cafes (serving

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after the big day. It will also depend

Adelaide or the Bellarine Peninsula

local wine of course). Many cellar

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on how far you want to travel, are you

at the start of the Great Ocean Road.

doors in cooler regions have fireplaces,

happy to fly or would rather take the

All of these would be great options

rustic and old or new and architectural;

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Touring wine regions can suit a short

to go. You can of course drive yourself

Over the border the High Country

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beverage!).

and will take you where you would like

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golf courses, art galleries, historic

from luxurious to quirky are available

car? I’ll leave that choice for you two to

for summer honeymoons. Beach in the

wonderful places to share a regional

figure out.

morning, wine tasting in the afternoon,

platter and a glass of red. In South

great dinner of cool food and crisp

Australia the Clare and Barossa

whites at night. Sign me up!

Valleys as well as the Adelaide Hills tick all the boxes and are all easily accessible from Adelaide.

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H O N EY M OON S

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A DV E RTO R IA L

Tasmania, whilst on the cool side, is

most other people get a chance. It is

on the coast with beaches and whale

ideal for a winter honeymoon–plenty of

when the vineyards spring to life after

watching in October. This region, along

great art, history, wineries, breweries

their winter hibernation and budburst

with much of W.A. has fabulous Spring

and distilleries, food and outstanding

happens. Delicate shoots and a green

orchid and wildflower displays.

romantic accommodation. Both the

haze are visible.

north and south of Tasmania offer great cellar door experiences.

You may have a favourite wine region

Many of the wine regions away from

that you would like to share with your

the coast that have a cooler winter

loved one or a region on your mutual

Coonawarra Padthaway and Robe in

may also have beautiful displays

bucket list as a must-do. Wherever you

the south-east of South Australia, are

of Spring flowers, most of the

go you will be spoilt for choice with

very historic and cultural places, their

recommendations for Autumn also

quality wineries and lots of activities

cellar doors have fireplaces beckoning

work for Spring.

to keep you as busy or relaxed as you

you closer and red wine to keep you there for an afternoon.

Nights can be chilly, so yes you can still light the fire and fill the spa. You

Spring is a very popular time for

could try cooler regions of WA such

weddings with spring flowers in

as Great Southern with its sub regions

abundance and coincidentally also

of Mount Barker, Frankland River and

the time of year when many wineries

Porongurup, famous for the tall forests

are showcasing their new release

of karri, marri and jarrah and tree-

wines, so you can taste wines before

top walks. Denmark and Albany are

want to be. May you return with a boot-load of wine and hearts full of great memories.

A wine tasting is a fantastic alternative to a traditional event!

BRIDAL SHOWER, BUCKS OR HENS PARTY n n

Celebrate with a wine tasting at your own location or home Host a cellar party including a wine tasting, where guests give wine as gifts. Perfect for the wine-loving couple.

CORPORATE OR SOCIAL WINE EVENT Wine Taste Talk can create a relaxed wine tasting event that your clients or guests will remember.

For more information contact your host - Virginia Jacobs e: virginia@winetastetalk.com.au t: 0408 197 747 www.winetastetalk.com.au

WTT_Equaly Wed_HP_Jan 2018_v3.indd 1

24/01/18 12:16 PM

Marry Me Gay is Australia’s Premier Resource for Same-Sex Marriage Since 2011 we have provided same-sex wedding products including: • over 30 cake toppers • gifts • albums • cufflinks • congratulations, engagement, thank you cards that are specifically designed for LGBTI+ couples

E: info@marrymegay.com.au W: www.marrymegay.com.au F: www.facebook.com/marrymegay

BUSINESS FEATURE

We cater for cocktail parties to formal dinners with our on-site wedding coordinator on hand to assist you in your preparation. We also include all the table wear, glassware and even wine barrels for display.

S I ST E R ’ S RO CK R ESTAU RA N T Located at the top of the vineyard, overlooking the Pinot Noir block. Chef Alan Meaney’s passion for Borrodell’s local produce features in his menu, 2 0 1 8

showcasing all the in-season delights from the orchard and surrounds. Our

F E B UA RY

philosophy of food has developed around a love of the variety of produce grown on the estate and what’s available in regional Australia. The

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menu is exciting and contemporary

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with tell-tale signs of his French and European training and experience.

Come and try his delicious cuisine

E Q U A L LY

yourself!

CI D E R S U I T ES Designed as a romantic retreat for a

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couple, the suites have an intimate

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open-planned setting with expansive views across the valley to the distant mountain range.

COT TAG ES There are two cottages (‘Chardonnay’ Borrodell is one of Australia’s highest

options within the site including the

vineyards, located three hours from

following:

Sydney and 1030 metres above sealevel. Surrounded by cool climate grapes, heritage apples and native bushland, Borrodell overlooks the beautiful Towac Valley towards the town of Orange.

• The Lawn Terrace is perfect for an outdoor ceremony.

• Sister’s Rock Restaurant for gatherings of up to 40 people.

• The Wine Cellar, a stylish

and ‘Truffles’) available with three bedrooms, two bathrooms and an ensuite. There is a fully equipped kitchen (breakfast provided – cereal, milk, juice, tea/coffee making facilities), a fireplace in the lounge room and a lovely balcony on which meals or just reading the paper can be enjoyed. Serene countryside views,

Borrodell offers more than just a space

underground cellar with bi-fold

with kangaroos and colourful bird-life

to host your wedding, you have several

doors leading to the terrace &

compliment the idyllic rural retreat.

gardens.

• Marquee Space for larger celebrations of up to 140 people.

Whilst you are here in the winter months, feel free to come truffle hunting with Bailey the truffle dog!

We are preparing for your romantic occasion.

You have waited ong enough.

We are ready.

Let’s Ceeebrate Borrodeee Vineyard Lake Canobooas Road ORANGE www.borrodeee.com.au

RAINBOW FAMILIES No-one is more excited than their two delightful boys, who have been strong advocates for marriage equality for years, even appearing on ABC TV’s You Can’t Ask That.

“For many years Jesse assumed that we were married. We invited friends and family to Jules’ name giving and had a surprise commitment ceremony.

Jesse was 4 and interpreted that as our wedding. At about 7 or 8 he got into a couple of heated debates with children

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about the legalities of two women or two men marrying. It’s not that we had intentionally hidden anything from him or his brother, but we had never sat them down and explained the laws.

From that time on he was an advocate

In addition to the thousands of

Of course, marriage equality also sends

couples eagerly anticipating wedding

a powerful message to children of

bells after the historic legalisation of

same-sex parents that their families

“Our children tell us that they now

same-sex marriages, the children of

are equal to every other family, and

feel like their mates whose parents

same-sex couples are joining in the

that the love their parents have for

are married and believe they will have

excitement.

them is equal to the love enjoyed by

fewer people telling them they can’t

every other child.

have a real family because two women

Rainbow Families, a NSW-based community organisation, was at

We caught up with three families

the forefront of the campaign for

affected by the recent changes:

marriage equality, giving a voice to the thousands of kids across Australia whose families were impacted by the decision.

The recent changes to the Marriage Act fundamentally change the ways families are recognised in law: Samesex parented families can now be adequately protected through the Commonwealth Family Law Act (de-facto couples are not ) and samesex marriages are now recognised in immigration law and by State Governments, simplifying access to basic services.

Ma r l y, Tra c ey, J e s s e a n d J u le s Marly and Tracey have been a couple for 35 years and live in the beautiful Sutherland Shire in Sydney with their boys, Jesse and Jules.

and Jules followed suit,” says Marly.

can’t get married.”

Culburra Beach on the NSW South Coast has been a family destination for over 20 years and will be the perfect location for the couple’s wedding. “The ceremony will be on the beach. It will be a fairly simple wedding featuring some of our favourite people, foods

The family are busy organising their

and music.” The wedding will be a

upcoming wedding ceremony at

whole family affair.

Culburra Beach. “We didn’t ever really envisage our wedding. We’ve always believed that marriage was not an option for us, so we didn’t ever allow ourselves to dream or imagine” says Marly.

“We’ve been to lots of weddings. Just like our 10 brothers and sisters, we met our partners in our 20s. It’s almost 30 years later and now it’s our turn.”

“We have encouraged Jesse and Jules to decide how they will be involved.

They both want to be ring bearers and Jules thought he might like to be a flower boy.”

“Jesse had his heart set on being our celebrant! It now looks like he will be the MC for the reception.”

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The family followed up with a civil

“We’ve had to have very difficult

Mat and Mits met at Mardi Gras in

ceremony in Joadja, NSW, and lived

conversations with our kids and the

2005 and were married in Nova Scotia

in Canada for almost a decade before

school pick-up the day the postal

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in Canada eleven years ago, a few

returning to live in Sydney in 2014.

survey results were announced was

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M a t , Mi ts, Ty l er and Ri l ey.

short years before adopting their two

Their marriage was not recognised by

sons, Tyler (9) and Riley (6).

the best pick-up we’ve ever done.”

the Commonwealth Government until

Their boys are eager to be ring-bearers

“We got married in the snow and I

the Governor General assented to the

but the couple has no plans as yet for

remember feeling how odd it felt - here

amended Marriage Act on December

another wedding.

I was, this Aussie kid marrying the love

7th last year.

of my life in a blizzard,” says Mat.

“The clock struck twelve and we

says Mat, but “we look forward

“In most other respects, it was a very

weren’t single anymore, “Mat jokes,

to supporting our friends at their

traditional wedding. We walked each

“It was surreal, but a huge relief more

weddings and teaching our boys just

other down the aisle and wrote our

than anything. We’d lived in Canada

how many shapes and forms love can

own vows. Our celebrant actually

and knew what it was like to have our

take.”

messed the words up, so we were

relationship recognised as equal. It’s

technically married an hour after the

an awful feeling to get off a plane and

ceremony out the back with waiters as

feel like your relationship doesn’t count

our witnesses.”

anymore.”

“Three weddings might be overkill,”

“And of course, the biggest thrill is knowing that our boys can marry whomever they want when the times comes to it, if they want to get married at all.”

Author: Ashley Scott Former CoChair Rainbow Families www.rainbowfamilies.com.au

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We didn’t want to miss out on our chosen reception venue, Bondi Pavilion, so we did things a little backwards and booked before our engagement!

Dylan always wanted to be the one to propose and, on our four-year anniversary in February 2017, Dylan popped the question with a beautiful indoor picnic at The Old Clare hotel. Little did Dylan know, I had always planned to ask Dylan back (everyone loves a proposal, right?) and I created a picnic in Bronte gully the next day. Our ceremony was supposed to be spot, however, our wedding day was the first day in 70 days to have rain and so it was held at the reception venue.

a theme and I didn’t care to have one, so it was ‘rough and ready’. e.g. “we’ll throw everything together and it will all work joyful’ and I can honestly say that it was

we didn’t care for every little decoration to be perfect and fussed over and Dylan and I radiated joy which was infectious for all of our guests. To be honest the rain added a little more joy to the day as well.

My bridesmaids and I had to run through howling wind and rain to get to the venue, which made us laugh hysterically. It was an entrance to remember and set the tone for a really joyful evening.

We are now looking forward to our legal ceremony which will be held 1 year and 1 week after we got engaged, hopefully in our original ceremony location in Bronte Gully. We are only having a small party this time, but I’m sure it will be equally as joyful!

Photography: MM Photos www.mmphotos.com.au

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in that it was relatively stress free and

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the best theme Our wedding was ‘rough’

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out”. This soon morphed into ‘rough and

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because everyone kept asking me about

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Our ‘theme’ was quite tongue-in-cheek

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held in Bronte Gully in the same exact

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The plan was to be outside under the

not replicated anywhere up or down

They styled the venue in a simple but

arbor, backed by views of rolling green

the coast. A beautiful homestead used

elegant way to ensure people had

hills, through pasture country and

for overnight accommodation for the

the opportunity to speak and interact

to the Pacific Ocean. Sadly, due to a

wedding party sits on the top of the hill

without having to dodge multiple

summer coastal storm that passed over

and showcasing the stunning gardens

candles, table centre-pieces or other

just 20 minutes before we were due

and postcard views of the ocean.

unimportant decorations. The overall

to walk down the aisle, the ceremony

We sought to create a family centric

was moved indoors. The reception was housed in a purpose-built marque housing the 100 guests, dance floor, bar and clear walls with an allencompassing and uninterrupted view to the ocean.

wedding as all of those people that were invited to the wedding make up our urban family no matter if they were family or friends. We wanted everyone to be treated like they were members of our immediate families

We chose the venue Bushbank

as that is how important they were to

located in Kiama due to its central

us. We played this out by having two

location to all our families which were

long tables for guests, each seating 50

arriving from Sydney, Canberra and

people. We served our food family style

Shellharbour. The venue is a one of a

and allowed guests free reign of the do

kind spot with a vibe and view that is

it yourself gin and tonic bar.

style was masculine without losing the style of a classic wedding. They were helped along the way by an amazing set of suppliers and vendors that bent over backwards to help them make the wedding the absolute best day of their lives.

Photography: Same Love Photography www.samelove.com.au

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SARAH & KAREN Sarah proposed by way of a flash mob,

Republic. The wedding itself took place

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in the UK on 24 October 2017 where

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with ‘security’ bursting into song and dance at Manchester Airport as Karen disembarked a flight from the Dominican

legalised.

“We had an extremely intimate ceremony family and friends present to witness our long-awaited union at the registry office.

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and celebration, with only immediate

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marriage equality had already been

We wanted our day to be about us, as

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individuals and as a couple, and it was

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important that the event reflected our personal brand of love.”

Sarah wore a tailored suit, which had been designed and custom made for the big day and the two matched the colouring of their shoes – both made from a deep purple suede. Their honeymoon was in Cape Verde where they enjoyed nothing but sun, beach and each other for two whole weeks.

“We fought for, and are extremely excited about, the legislation changes in Australia where their marriage is now recognised under the law. A tear was shed when the news was announced and we celebrated by cracking the champers!”

Photographer: Nicole Anne Designs nicolaannedesigns.com.au

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CHOOSING WINE FOR YOUR WEDDING Choosing wines for your wedding

look at a supplier’s list and say ‘a

T RY B E FO R E YO U B U Y

might seem difficult, but don’t fear - I’m

sauvignon blanc and a shiraz’ and

Before you book a venue, make sure

here with a few helpful tips to make it

move on to the cake order without even

you talk to them about the food and

easy.

trying them.

wine, even ask if you can try the dishes

I moved into the wine industry because

Which wines to choose really depends

of my passion for food and wine, and

on your guests, the food you are

the joy that I get from sharing a good

serving and your style of event.

bottle with loved ones. Although at the beginning of my career it was overwhelming, the best advice I had was from a Master of Wines who said, “drink everything that you can!”

and wines before you book the venue.

You may find that the quality of the food is not good enough for the price of the venue, or the venue will not serve

Consider what your guests would drink

the type of food or wines that you

normally at that time of day and also

want. Getting high quality food served

the season.

to 100 people in a certain time frame is

A big bold red wine in the middle of

challenging.

summer might not be as popular as it

If you get the opportunity to try the

could be in winter. If either of you are

food make sure that you have all the

from an overseas country or have a

wines poured together in separate

love of somewhere you may decide to

glasses. Try all the chardonnays

have this as a ‘theme’ that your wines

together to pick the best and then

tie in with. Italy, France, Spain etc. all

move to the next type of wine and

HOW TO NARROW DOWN YOU R

produce great wines and if you find

be sure to try them first without food

WINES

one you like it personalises the event.

and then with the food. Some wines

I gave it my best shot, and many years later here I am, armed with some tips for selecting some great wines for your wedding and what to keep in mind when choosing them.

Many people don’t put a lot of thought into selecting wines for their wedding and just choose two whites and two reds in a specific price range. These wines are what the industry calls ‘house wines’ and can be very average in flavour and complexity. Don’t just

A lot of life’s great moments involve sharing good food and wine with people that we love. Nothing spoils this more than being asked, “do you want the chicken or the beef” – unless of course its drinking poor quality wine with it.

are quite basic without food but really shine when eating while you drink them. I would steer away from serving the basic wine without food, as people will be drinking them before and after the meal.

Longview Vineyards

S UM M E R

OTHER WINE STYLES

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pressured into booking what the venue

them for a long period of time and will

1-2 Australian glasses of our big full

directs you to as they may suggest the

be less likely to get sick of them. Most

flavoured and heavy reds.

wines that make them the most money.

house wines are a blend of varieties

You may not work for a wine company,

and this helps the wine makers to

but we all know what we like and you

produce a better wine for the price

want to be drinking what you like on

point they are aiming at.

your big day, right?!

I am ready for you to say ‘wine snob’ at this next recommendation but, wine glasses really do matter! When you are at a cheap restaurant and

For a summer wedding don’t forget a

drinking from a thick, basic glass it

When you have worked out the 3

lovely rosé as they are refreshing and

has no glamour or occasion. It also

red and 3 white wines you like, take

work well by themselves and with food.

makes a big difference to the smell

the rest of the bottles home and try

They can be fruity or dry and are very

and ultimately, the taste of the wine.

them later in the day. When you have

underrated.

With beautiful glassware the table

tried 10+ wines in one hit you need to clear your taste buds to really decide properly!

When you are picking your red wines, this is where you should think about

looks nicer and gives the guest an expectation of what is to come.

alcohol content. Big Australian reds

So, ask if the venue has different

OT HER WI NE ST YL ES

like a shiraz or grenache can be very

glassware, red wine in a small basic

For the white wine choices don’t just

alcoholic. When you see people in Italy

glass is vastly different in a big quality

go for the basic sauvignon blanc. Think

and France drinking at 11am we think

glass, whatever the price for the bottle.

about an unwooded chardonnay as

it is crazy. But the wines over there

this will please both sauvignon blanc

are made with lower alcohol and a

and chardonnay drinkers and works

lighter, easier drinking style. They can

with most styles of food. I suggest

drink 1-2 glasses at lunch and 1-2 for

TIP: Some big bottle shops offer free glass rental and return of any wines if they are not drunk at an event.

1 0 7

dinner and that will be the same as

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lighter wines as you will be drinking

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If you are unsure about wine don’t feel

AUT UM N

Steven Miller (Fine Wine and Dining Ambassador)

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called Champagne, and of course it

14 Karat Gold Wedding – I would avoid

d rink”, Champ ag ne !

comes with a premium price. However,

the usual Champagnes, such as Moet,

The story is that the French monk,

literally across the road from the border

Veuve and Mumm and consider lesser-

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Dom Perignon was the inventor of

of the Champagne region are some

known brands, unless you really want

Champagne. A monk found a bottle

amazing French sparkling wines. An

to show them off. True Champagne

that had been through a second

example is the Cremant De Bougogne,

starts at about $30 a bottle but there

fermentation, popped the top and

which you can pick up for under $18

is a great Australian sparkling option

declared “I am tasting the stars!”. Or so

in any 6. French bubbles needn’t be

called Arras Premium which comes in

the story goes.

expensive.

at $20.90 when it’s on special.

Sterling Silver Wedding – If you have

If you are happy to consider bubbles

Platinum – Firstly - don’t forget my

a certain amount of money in mind,

from other countries – perhaps as

invite! Secondly, decide if you want the

with clever planning you can still have

a nod to your heritage, don’t forget

best wines you can afford or are you

wonderful wines.

Prosecco (Italian), Carva (Spanish) and

looking to make a statement about how

even England has sparkling. There are

much you spent on your wedding? It’s

many good Australian bubbles too,

okay - we’ve all done it. Well-known

but try and steer clear of the standard

brands are easy but small producers

Yellowglen and look around at other

often make amazing wines that will get

options which start at the $7 to $9

people talking. Brands to look out for

mark.

are Lanson, Charles Orban Blanc De

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Perrier-Jouet

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CHAMPAGNE GUIDE

Start by asking your venue for their list of wines and their prices. If they don’t appeal to you then don’t be scared to ask if they offer other wines.

Most venues will not let you supply the wines yourself so, it’s a good idea

Blancs, Perrier Jouet, Pommery and an

to visit a liquor retailer and look at

TIP: Have the toast straight after the

all the different sparkling wines they

wedding ceremony when everyone

have. Purchase a few for tasting and

mingles. This is where you drink the

TIP: Ask the venue if you can have

then see if your venue will order your

best wine you have, as it is the first

ice buckets on the tables with the

favourite in for you, or could they

wine of the night. It’s also a great way

champagne in them so your friends

suggest a similar wine that they could

to get people together for a group

can see what they are drinking. I love

supply?

photo. You could even give a 200ml

big format bottles, and nothing says

piccolo sized bottle to everyone as they

“party” like a Magnum. Another option

walk out of the ceremony.

is a champagne bar which allows your

This is especially important for Champagne as only sparkling wine from the Champagne region can be

Aussie sparkling, Arras vintage.

guests to select what they would like. I know this could be dangerous!

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OTHER THINGS TO CONSIDER

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www.darinimages.com

SPIRITS

OP E N BA R

T H E G O LD E N R U LE

It is tradition in some cultures to have

The tab can sky rocket depending on

It is ultimately your day; you want to

a bottle of spirits on each of the tables

what people are drinking, so our tip

remember it and be standing till the

for people to drink and this is to show

is to specify that only certain drinks

end. Weddings are a time to share

they are generous hosts. Russians

are available under the tab and

with your friends the statement that

like vodka, italians like grappa, some

the remainder are removed. Get an

you are together forever. This means

like Johnny Walker black etc. When it

itemised bill and consider serving low

good conversation, good food, wine,

comes to alcohol intake, I suggest you

alcohol wines for people who don’t

friends, family and most of all special

think very carefully how you want your

drink often.

memories.

guests to be at the end of the event.

Having an amazing event does not include picking someone up from the floor or breaking up a fight.

If you have a venue with an outdoor area, for a point of difference and glamour think about having a cigar and/or cognac bar. The allure of a cigar after a few drinks will be a welcome break away and great conversation space for your guests.

1 1 1

Steven Miller (Fine Wine and Dining Ambassador)

2 0 1 8 F E B UA RY / W E D E Q U A L LY / 1 1 2

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