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Z O E
Dusty ROAD
NOSTALGIA OFTEN BRINGS BACK BEAUTIFUL MEMORIES OF CHILDHOOD AND THIS IS CERTAINLY THE CASE FOR ZOE CORFE.
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fter many years away gaining experience in the floristry world, Zoe has returned to her hometown and created a business that reflects the passion within. Dusty Road Blooms has successfully opened its doors allowing others into its world. Hi Zoe. You're the proud owner of the beautiful new florist here in Coffs Harbour, Dusty Road Blooms. Firstly, please introduce yourself and share your connection to our readers. Hello! I am the proud creator behind Dusty Road Blooms, a studio based florist. Late last year I returned back here to live in my hometown of Coffs Harbour, after being 46 COFFS COAST
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Blms
Always so special to see someone’s reaction to receiving flowers, definitely a feeling that I continue to enjoy each day when I’m out delivering orders!
in Queensland for about five years. I had always hoped to one day be able to move back to this beautiful area to pursue my own florist business, I’m beyond excited and glad it’s finally happened! I’m sure many readers would agree that it’s wonderful to be able to call Coffs home and work doing something you love. When did you first take an interest in floristry and how have you developed that passion into a blooming business? Well the interest definitely goes back a long way for me, I have loved anything and everything to do with flowers for as long as I can remember. When I was younger we lived on the family farm a little out of town,
where Mum’s garden was always full of fun miscellaneous flowers, plants, beautiful bulbs popping up, and more. I am sure this is where my passion stems from and the reason that the name Dusty Road Blooms was born... One memory I love, is that if we were heading into town for the day, we would pick a few stems (usually some hot pink camellia flowers or daffodils) and wrap the stems up with foil in a little bit of water for the trip. Then they would be given to whoever we were visiting that day. I loved how happy it made people when they were given the humble little bunch of blooms. Always so special to see someone’s reaction to receiving flowers, definitely a feeling that I continue to enjoy each day when I’m out delivering orders! However it would have been early High
School that I took an interest specifically in a career as a florist, I even went to a local florist shop for work experience when I was about 15 years old. Although I’m fairly sure I spent most of that week just wiring and complaining about my sore hands and feet! Thank goodness I have toughened up a bit since then! However somehow that tiny taste of the industry made me more intrigued and certain it was the job for me. After school I worked and saved up to be able to move to the Gold Coast, where I completed my Certificate III in Floristry. While there I worked in flower wholesale, an events company, florist retail shops and volunteered to help where possible, which has given me plenty of valuable experience in the floristry industry that I can now apply in my own business. This also helped me to gradually develop into my own style and now be able to offer something unique and exciting. Wedding season will soon be upon us, which has to be a favourite time of year for you. What are you looking forward to most and what trends are we seeing at the moment? Definitely! Can’t wait for this wedding season to be here, I think it will be a really big, busy year for everyone, especially due to all the 2020 postponements. Really looking forward to it, particularly as there will be plenty of amazing opportunities to showcase my designs. I think the huge dried and preserved trend we are currently seeing
much goes on behind the scenes of a florist, the design, methods, techniques and details. They are heaps of fun, plus it’s always so interesting to see what each person creates from the same selection of materials/instructions. Everyone loves to leave with a new creative skill and their own floral masterpiece. Christmas Wreaths were a hit, and Flower Crowns are always a really popular workshop, especially for Hen’s and birthday parties. If you think you are keen to be involved in the action, keep an eye out, as I will be hosting various ticketed workshop events throughout the year! Where can we find out more, see your work or order your beautiful bouquets? I have actually just recently launched my website, where you can browse the gallery of my previous work and even shop online for deliveries throughout the week. Check it out! (www.dustyroadblooms.com). Or of course I’m always updating Facebook and Instagram @dustyroadblooms with what I’m working on, often I’m at local weekend markets, or I could be prepping weddings/events and other pretty things! Thanks Zoe.
Always remember that us wedding vendors are here to help you get through each step, to make your wedding the best day ever!
will continue and we will see more use of these dried/preserved mixed together with classic fresh flowers in the bouquets and decorations. It’s also becoming quite popular to dry or press into a frame part of the bridal bouquet as a keepsake, which I think is such a lovely idea. What advice would you give to any budding brides and grooms who are navigating their way through wedding planning? Try to relax and remember what it is you’re actually planning – to marry the person you love! The preparation and navigating through all the details can feel like a big task, but try to enjoy it as much as you can. Always remember that us wedding vendors are here to help you get through each step, to make your wedding the best day ever! Floristry is such a tactile creative industry. Do you offer other services where people can come in and get their hands dirty? Yes absolutely! I host seasonal workshops and can also be booked to host private workshops too. Workshops are great as they give a brief understanding into how
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Carmel Kestles Makeup Artist
Carmel Kestles Makeup Artist hello@carmelkestles.com |
carmelkestles.com
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@carmelkestlesmakeupartist
0476 574 074 | Harlow & Co - 34 Park Avenue, Coffs Harbour COFFS COAST
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COFFS COAST WEDDING GUIDE - A SPECIAL focus FEATURE
BONNIE CAPELL CELEBRANT I am available for bookings in Coffs Harbour and surrounding regions and am happy to discuss arrangements if your chosen venue is outside this area. My personal approach to each of you will ensure that your ceremony will hold special memories for you both. My objective is to develop your ceremony to suit your needs, whilst ensuring that all the relevant legal requirements are met. I’ve always loved writing, and as a Celebrant I have the honour and joy of creating beautiful ceremonies for my couples. I put a little bit of
Beautiful Beachside Weddings Set upon the pristine shores of Charlesworth Bay in Coffs Harbour
www.pacificbayresort.com.au 48 COFFS COAST
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heart and soul into every ceremony I write, ensuring it is everything hoped for and more. I’m also a confident and experienced public speaker. I love being there on the big day, making sure everything is in place and ready, and gently guiding you and your guests through your ceremony from beginning to end so you can just enjoy being in the moment.
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COFFS COAST WEDDING GUIDE - A SPECIAL focus FEATURE
Jan SUZIE AND
J US T
M A R R I E D
JAN AND SUZIE MARRIED AT THE END OF LAST YEAR AT CEDAR BAR BELLINGEN WITH ALISON BARTLETT AS THEIR MARRIAGE CELEBRANT, SO FOCUS SAT DOWN TO FIND OUT ALL THE DETAILS….
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irstly, congratulations on your recent wedding. Take us back to where it all began – how did you meet? Jan and I met doing a musical called “Anything Goes”. We were both ensemble members and developed what in show business is called a ‘Showmance’. After 4 years, we knew it was more serious than that. Tell us about your proposal. We were on a holiday in Bellingen visiting
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heard of dairy cows. After some group photos were taken, the family started to make their way back to the cars. Jan grabbed my hand and suggested “Let’s go get a photo over here now.” As we walked to a section of It was surreal the lookout I could see his and special and hand shuffling around in we wouldn’t have it his pocket. any other way. It was Jan got down on one so lovely to actually knee, presented a ring and Jan’s family and it was have the whole said: “Will you marry me?“ Boxing Day. family with us, after I squealed and said YES! Jan had planned a all - that’s what the We ran back to the romantic drive for us family and they all marriage means to us up Dorrigo Mountain. wondered what was - bringing our families Somehow 3 cars full going on. We said “We’re together officially. of the family decided engaged!” and in shock, to head along too! they all cheered and It wasn't part of the hugged us. No one knew plan, but lovely nonetheless. Not only was the what he was up to except for his father. entire convoy of family there at the lookout, It was surreal and special and we wouldn’t but there was also a gaggle of tourists and a have it any other way. It was so lovely to
actually have the whole family with us, after all – that’s what the marriage means to us – bringing our families together officially. What lead you to finding your Marriage Celebrant Alison Bartlett? We had chatted with our venue coordinator Victoria Harper at Cedar Bar and Kitchen, and she recommended Alison. I looked into her website and saw some testimonials and thought she had a lovely energy about her. I picked up the phone and called her for a chat. I thought it was very important to connect verbally rather than online for such a personal involvement together. I could tell instantly in her voice that she was special. We were interstate so weren’t able to meet up in person until a few months later, so video chats were how we connected until then. What qualities were you looking for when choosing her? I wanted to find someone who was grounded and real, with warmth and joy. I also wanted someone who was able to be personal in the ceremony rather than generic. Alison was exactly that, it was like being married by an old friend we’d known for years. How did Alison make your day special?
I thought it was very important to connect verbally rather than online for such a personal involvement together. I could tell instantly in her voice that she was special.
She embraced the romance of the occasion without any stuffiness or pretentiousness. It was exactly the balance we wanted. She also had some beautiful ideas about presenting the rings. She made all our guests feel welcome and comfortable and everyone had so much fun too. What were some of the standout moments for you on your wedding day? I remember arriving outside the venue with my bridal group and parents, and I was feeling a little nervous! But then I heard this great happy roar of the crowd inside, they were cheering! Alison was revving up the crowd to show their support for us! It was amazing and it made me feel excited reminded me of all the love in the room. Do you think wedding suppliers are important to making your wedding journey memorable? Absolutely. It’s all about the people who work with you to help organise the day.
Everything seemed to run smooth thanks to Alison and everyone involved in helping us. What are you up to now? I am doing Cats the Musical in South Korea! I was contracted here just after the pandemic began and luckily the producers have safely got us here and have been touring here for almost 12 months. Jan was able to come over and we just spent 3 months together while he was able to work online. It was fantastic to have that quality time together. We are excited for whatever the future brings, knowing we will face it together. Have you got any great advice for other couples when planning their big day? Remember the reasons why you are celebrating – and let that be your grounding point when things feel a bit stressful. And remember to stop and breathe and look into each other’s eyes on the day. It goes so quickly but it’s these moments you will remember forever. Thanks Jan and Suzie! COFFS COAST
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COFFS COAST WEDDING GUIDE - A SPECIAL focus FEATURE
SURF CLUB RESTAURANT & BAR
BELLINGEN RIVERSIDE COTTAGES
If you are looking for a wedding venue with stunning views, the flexibility to create just the right atmosphere, fabulous food and flawless service, then look no further. Coffs Harbour’s Surf Club Restaurant and Bar offers outstanding wedding experiences, designed personally just for you. However you imagine your wedding day, we help you to transform our indoor and outdoor spaces to realise the dream. Elegant, funky, bohemian, stand up, sit down, casual or formal: whatever ambience you choose we make it happen and set it against the stunning backdrop of Pacific Ocean sand and surf.
Bellingen Riverside Cottages lends itself as a great special
Contact: 02 6652 9870 or info@surfclubcoffsharbour.com
Contact: 0413 317 635 or bellingenrivercottages@gmail.com
events venue for weddings, yoga and health retreats, girls and boys weekends, family reunions and birthday parties. We have a lovely flat area on the river bank where we hold our weddings. There is plenty of space to house a marquee of any size and we have our own chefs that can cater for the events. The gym is big enough to have a yoga class and group fitness session with a massage therapist on hand for that health retreat getaway.
CO F F S COAST ’ S FAVOU R IT E
WEDDING VENUES
CEDAR BAR & KITCHEN
PACIFIC BAY RESORT
Cedar Bar & Kitchen offers a gorgeous setting for your wedding celebration. Couples are offered exclusive hire of the 112-yearold restored church which has the versatility to be used for both a ceremony and reception. From a relaxed cocktail style reception to a grand sit down feast, Cedar has everything you need for a beautiful wedding. Let our experienced events team manage the details whilst you enjoy your special day in the heart of Bellingen. Ideal for intimate gatherings or large celebrations of up to 100 guests, chat to our events team to start planning your wedding.
As well as being a perfect wedding venue in Coffs Harbour, Pacific Bay Resort offers great value all-inclusive wedding packages. We want to make your big day as memorable and special as possible. Moreover, we believe you should enjoy planning your wedding, not stressing about it. This is where our wedding packages and experience really come in to play. In short, our wedding team will work with you every step of the way to ensure your dreams become a reality. If you’re looking for an exceptional venue in Coffs Harbour then look no further.
Contact: 02 6655 1001 or info@cedarbar.com.au
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CAROLE BEROS FASHION STYLIST AND DESIGNER
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We caught up with Fashion Stylist and Designer Carole Beroš who is the owner of Boutique Le Dãin Designs at Sawtell.
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ell us about 2020 and how you fared moving into the New Year? Like everyone else, everything changed consistently and nothing stayed the same! We chose to keep ourselves and customers safe, so we closed the doors for three months. It was hard, but gave us the opportunity to push ourselves in a different direction, this being the start of including more services for our customers at our store. Tell us about the new services you can now provide? As a stylist, I can honestly say we give a 100% commitment to dressing ladies of all sizes at any age to look their best. So we have now joined forces with other businesses to offer a ‘Makeover Package’. This includes having your hair styled at award winning Salon J. Society in Sawtell, Make up and Beauty Treatments at La Fleur D’Alyse Cosmetic Laser and Medispa, and Relaxation, Stress Management, Beauty and Nails at Figtree Day Spa. We also have connections for the guys with Upstairs Barber Co. at Sawtell and clothing from Jack Simmons Menswear. This is a stress-free Makeover Package which includes styling the ladies with a brand new wardrobe and also utilising the garments they already own. If someone wants the Diamond Package, this includes a ‘Before and After’ photo shoot which is great for a gift for yourself or someone special . Call 0417 471 019 for enquiries.
I have had the pleasure of working as a Fashion Stylist for the magazine on some amazing covers! Which I absolutely love! My favourite has to be the Jungle themed one!
We know that you are passionate about Fashion Styling, tell us about how you got started. I started out with the intention of being a Fashion Designer and London was the place to be. I started but followed love and ended up in Australia! I have been involved with two main industries. We owned a catering business for many years, so I’m a bit of a foodie, entertainer and mad cook, but my passion is in design, photography and styling. This has led me to owning my own store which enables me to be involved with all of these! Where has this taken you? I have been lucky in certain areas really; I have definitely been in the right place at the right time. But to give myself some credit, in most cases you have to put in the hard work to get anywhere and focus on moving forward. Touching on being in the right place at the right time, I was working with the amazing Kate Wood-Foye from Port Macquarie, who at that time was a director at Rydges and Sails. She is also part of the FOCUS team down there. Le Dãin Designs was for many years, a partner and major sponsor for the Hotels and Resort group. Staging and styling for Fashion Parades to raise funds for charities was a huge part of our association with that group. Kate introduced me to Jay and Louise Beaumont who
are the owners of FOCUS Magazine. Louise was looking for someone to join forces with their new editor to kick start Coffs Coast FOCUS. I was given the Social Pages Columnist and story writing position back then, that was 10 years ago... Still loving every minute of it! I have had the pleasure of working as a Fashion Stylist for the magazine on some amazing covers! Which I absolutely love! My favourite has to be the Jungle themed one! I remember being there with Nicci Seccombe and Gavin Moroney and it just fell into place in the most amazing way! I ordered in wild custommade millinery from Lotus and Lace Millinery for the shoot styling... Epic! Which photographers have you worked with locally as a stylist? I believe that when you team up with a photographer, you have to have respect and be able to bounce ideas off each other to bring out the best of the shoot. I have worked with Tom Woods from Stimages who travels around Australia now. Back then I had just launched our jewellery design label and we did a huge shoot for the very first Coffs Coast World Rally with fast cars and racing drivers…talk about having a blast!! The collection was called ‘All Revved Up’ and it is still one of my favourite shoots and collections! Continued over... COFFS COAST
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CAROLE BEROS FASHION STYLIST AND DESIGNER
Working with FOCUS, I met Michael Marchment who was a Graphic/Web Designer and photographer for FOCUS Port Macquarie for many years and now resides in QLD. He is a great friend and I am one of his clients. Michael and I have worked on many shoots together, including using sensational motors like 150,000 Mercedes Benz cars from Mercedes Benz Coffs Coast. Thank you Todd Blewitt! We have also travelled to the city in Sydney where I was styling and staged a shoot at the glamorous Sofitel Wentworth for a Race Day Fashion Shoot. The models were Gai Waterhouse’s PA and Racing Manager and were positioned on top of a Grand Piano! Such fun! I had designed jewellery for both Kate and Gai Waterhouse and was also interviewing them for FOCUS and Ladies in Racing Magazine! Busy times but worth the time and effort. Of course I get to work with our current photographer, the talented Gavin Moroney. Gavin is amazing to work with and is multiskilled! Because I have a passion for photography as well as styling, it really works well. On that note, we don’t always agree ha ha! As I said that is part of the success of a shoot, bouncing ideas off each other until it works! We have just completed two shoots; one was fantasy (Met Ball Theme) shot to promote one of Nicci Secombe’s fab events. 62 COFFS COAST
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This one is a glam/dramatic 50’s style shoot. We ordered the Emerald Satin Gown from RSVP in Coffs Hbr. Emma Wood is the model and one of our two main Faces of Le Dãin Designs, the other being Adelaide Zietsch. Photographer Gavin did an epic job and I can’t wait to work with him again! Have you any funny stories to share? Yes! Many but one comes to mind. I was doing a shoot with Nicci from FOCUS, the weather was a bit wild… to the extent of nearly blowing the model’s false eyelashes off!! Ha ha! We were at the Racing Club and we couldn’t pull the shoot into place… “it’s lacking something” chirps Nicci… so off I trotted (excuse the pun) and five minutes later came back with this ENORMOUS horse in tow…. After laughing for way too long we pulled off one of the best Race Day Shoots yet! We hear you are involved in the Racing Industry? Yes! Only on a sponsorship level and with Fashions on the Field. We are involved with many different clubs and own The Le Dãin Designs Summer Cup locally at the end of each year. We also stage flashy Fashion Shows at the Racing Club. Fun but lots of work! Aside from FOCUS, what other magazines have you styled for and worked with? I was involved with jewellery styling for
the late beautiful April Briscoe’s shoots who was the owner of Coast Mag and North Coast Weddings Magazine. They produced some fabulous shoots and I still use some of the images on my promotional vouchers and signage to this day. I also write and am involved with Ladies in Racing Magazine. What is one of the most amazing experiences as a stylist? I have been fortunate enough to be involved with Super Stylist Lynette Pater who is in Melbourne. She has vast connections with many photographers, make-up artists etc. Le Dãin Designs has been involved on a jewellery and accessory level and I sometimes have to pinch myself when I’m included! The biggest blast was when I sent over a jewellery collection and accessories and the shoot hit the front cover of a New York Magazine! Lucky me! Tell us about your plans for the future? I still have the offer standing to work for tourism in Croatia. It would involve helping to stage Fashion Shows and promotions. That can be achieved from here with an annual visit and sending images and ideas. It’s all been put on hold due to the obvious. So I am happy just concentrating on the now, staying healthy and being super grateful for living where we do! Thanks Carole.
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FOXKin &
N I C O L A
B O D L E
Knowing thyself takes many years of ups and downs and FOR NICOLA BODLE, UNDERSTANDING HERSELF AND WHAT VALUES SAT DEEP WAS ESSENTIAL for her business to blossom.
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nce choosing to truly reflect this through her business, people with similar values began seeking out her expertise and creativity, and life once again became
purposeful.
Hey Nic. You're the founder of Fox & Kin – an amazing photography business that oozes realness and purpose, but for those that don't know you, please introduce yourself. Hey! I’m Nic Bodle, a photographer and people watcher, an outgoing introvert, a lover of love, living in Bellingen with my feet in the river and my face in the sun. I have been told that I laugh a lot, and my laugh is very loud and distinct, which is really 52 COFFS COAST
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handy if you’re trying to Wedding photos find me in a packed bar certainly don’t or café. I believe that look like they used shoes are overrated and to! I’m an advocate there is no such thing for keeping weddings as too many tacos. I simple and eco-friendly to be captured. Wedding am, in general, a very and a vocal ally for photos certainly don’t passionate person, and those underrepresented look like they used to! I’m am quite outspoken an advocate for keeping in the wedding about things I care weddings simple and ecoindustry. deeply about. friendly and a vocal ally for I describe myself as a those underrepresented wedding photographer in the wedding industry. I’ll always stand up for for people who don’t like wedding photos. equality and take action for the planet. We’ve seen a real shift in the last couple of years Take us back to when you first took an in how people approach weddings and wedding interest in photography and how the planning, and I think that shift has been business began. reflected in how people want their weddings I don’t remember a time when I didn’t
There have been highs and lows, as there are with any business, but I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else right now and I’m so thankful.
have a camera in my hand. I’ve never had any formal training, it’s just something that has always seemed so natural to me. Long before smart phones and selfie sticks, I would go everywhere with a disposable film camera, documenting little moments throughout my childhood and younger years. I remember the anticipation of waiting to get the film developed, revealing what fleeting moments had been frozen in time. That feeling never gets old! At university and various jobs, I was always known as the person with the camera slung around my shoulder, ready to document it all. It was almost 8 years ago when I was asked to photograph my first wedding. I had no idea what to do or what to expect, and that was possibly one of the most terrifying days of my life. I’d previously never even considered the idea of being a wedding photographer, but after the first few weddings and the adrenalin rush that accompanied them, I was hooked. How has Fox & Kin grown and developed over the years as you have grown and developed yourself? When I first set out to become a photographer, I would take any job I could get my hands on – bands, babies, animals, events – you name it. I just wanted to take
photos but had little direction or drive towards anything in particular. But after a while I realised that I was feeling really disconnected from my work and was being pulled about by outside pressure and expectations, rather than being driven by passion. I realised then that I needed to strip my business back to its roots and rebuild it step by step, focusing on what was really important to me. I stopped taking bookings and worked in bush regeneration for about a year so I could clear my head. Then at the beginning of 2017 I launched Fox & Kin, a brand and business that reflected my passions of nature, sustainability, equality and love. These are the ethos that drive my business and, if I’m ever feeling lost or disheartened, I ask myself how I can serve these values. It’s been mind-blowing to see the growth of Fox & Kin in the past few years. I still have to pinch myself whenever I’m published in a magazine or win an award or get to travel the world to shoot a wedding. There have been highs and lows, as there are with any business, but I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else right now and I’m so thankful. It’s also been an incredible privilege to be able to hone my focus with the business and work with people and brands who have similar values, rather than just
saying yes to everything, even if it doesn’t quite resonate. I feel as though those people with similar values are seeking me out too and we’ve been able to create some real magic together! Not only are you creative on the wedding front, you're also passionate about taking beautiful images of people in intimate moments. What services do you have on offer for those that reach out to you? I love the storytelling side of photography and think that so much of that gets lost when we stage those extravagant shoots in exotic locations with fancy outfits and dancing alpacas in bowties. Don’t get me wrong, I love those shoots too, but it sometimes feels a little more about the scenery or the décor than the couple. I always wondered to myself, what would happen if we just took that all away, stripped it back to just a couple on a couch at home, no props, no distractions, just two people in love. Wouldn’t that allow us to tell a better story? I started offering intimate couple shoots, and at first, people were hesitant. It sounds a little scary, inviting a complete stranger into your home to watch you in your most vulnerable moments. >>> COFFS COAST
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There was a bit of fear in the unknown, but as soon as I started sharing images from my first few shoots, it absolutely took off. There is so much power in the vulnerability of skin on skin. Just by being physically close to someone we love, our bodies release a myriad of wonderful chemicals that cause us to feel happy, relaxed and in love. We literally produce our own antidepressants by cuddling! So couples often come away from these shoots not only with a gallery of incredible images of themselves, but feeling a renewed passion in their relationship and an excitement for their future together. My aim is to create a piece of art for a couple that they can look back on for the rest of their lives and say “yes, that was us, exactly as we were''. My intimate shoots can take place in your home or in an Airbnb (with the owner’s permission). There is no pressure to take your clothes off or to do anything you’re not comfortable with. I work with couples in the lead up to figure out what they’d like to do during the shoot and what sort of guidance they would like from me. I travel all over NSW for these shoots, but most couples come to Bellingen for a full weekend experience. For people to express their vulnerability and trust in you takes real courage. How do you help people feel comfortable for their shoots? 54 COFFS COAST
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I work with I think just by being couples in the relaxed I help those around me to relax. lead up to figure out Wedding days never what they’d like to go to plan. No matter do during the shoot how meticulously you and what sort of plan a day, there will guidance they would always be some little like from me. surprise that you never ask as many questions could’ve expected. The as they want from me. trick is brush it off and Most people still arrive to go with the flow. Often, I’ll arrive on a wedding a shoot nervous, and that’s okay. Most people day to a flurry of family members fussing over think they’re awkward and unphotogenic and something unexpected. Anxiety is contagious insist that they hate having their photo taken. and a huge (unspoken) part of my job is But I remind them that a shoot with me isn’t keeping couples calm, so often I’ll smooth just “having your photo taken“. It’s a fully things over before they even realise something immersive experience where you dedicate a is wrong, or I’ll defuse the situation like a day to just being present with the person you wedding bomb disposal technician. love. I don’t ask people to smile at the camera The other part of making people or strike uncomfortable poses. I start by asking comfortable, as you said, is trust. Trust is a questions and observing the way they move huge part of being a photographer and it’s and laugh and play with each other. Then I take not as simple as just asking for it. You need to all those tiny little bits of tenderness and tell a earn it. I gain trust from people by being totally story. open and vulnerable myself from the moment You’re a huge supporter of eco-ethical they enquire and book with me, through to the weddings, something that is emerging delivery of their photos. a little more into the mainstream which I get to know couples really well before their is fantastic. What makes you passionate shoot or wedding day. I ask a lot of questions about this and can you share some insight about what’s important to them and what into the choices we can make that align their expectations are, and I allow them to with this concept?
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Right from the get-go, when I launched Fox & Kin, I knew that my personal values would be the driving force behind the type of work I wanted to do and the message I wanted to send out. I care deeply about having minimal impact on the earth and leaving things better than we found them. I am fairly vocal about ditching wedding ‘must-haves’ or outdated traditions if they no longer carry meaning for you. I am also highly aware of the massive consumption of wedding related ‘stuff’ that takes a huge toll on the earth. When we talk about eco-ethical weddings, we’re talking about how you approach every stage of your wedding planning. Starting with where your wedding ‘stuff’ is coming from, how it’s sourced and where it’s going. As well as how you interact with your community and support local business. It’s not enough to just have eco-confetti anymore. I mean, that’s a great start, but the world is changing, it’s too late to plead ignorance to everything else. Humanity is moving collectively towards a more
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sustainable future and choosing to celebrate business owner I could be, but at the time I minimalism, rather than decadence. The truth was in disbelief. is, it is no harder to be married with nothing I think so many people connect with my than it is with everything. images because they can picture themselves in There are ways to minimise your impact at them. The majority of media we consume, both every step, while still having everything you’ve digital and printed, is dominated by particular ever dreamed of for your wedding. In fact, I body shapes, cultures and sexualities, and am sure you will find it far more sentimental to it’s not reflective of the real and wonderfully recall the way you felt, and the words spoken, diverse society we live in. I know I still have a than the material ingredients of what was your long way to go with my work, but I try really wedding day. hard to focus on representation of those If you’re not sure where to start, speak to who are not usually represented in the media your wedding planner or vendors, and ask how we consume. It’s really important to me that they can help your wedding to have a lighter anyone can open a magazine and say, “hey, footprint. You can also head to my website and that person looks like me!“. grab a copy of the Mindfully Wed E-Guide put Another thing that I try really hard to convey together by Less Stuff in my images is feeling More Meaning which and emotion, so I really is full of great tips to appreciate you saying The majority get you started on your that. When we look of media we eco-ethical wedding back at old photos, we consume, both journey! like to be reminded of digital and printed, There's so much how people moved, their is dominated by feeling behind expressions, mannerisms particular body your images; they and how a place felt. I find shapes, cultures pull you in and it so strange that we as a give an emotional society are obsessed with and sexualities, and connection. photos of us smiling at the it’s not reflective 2020 saw you camera. It’s not natural of the real and named as the top and it doesn’t convey wonderfully diverse emerging wedding anything other than how society we live in. photographer of great you looked (which, the year by Capture I’ll admit, is sometimes Magazine. Obviously the confidence boost we you're doing something right! need!). Wow, thank you so much. I sure hope I’m Often it doesn’t tell the whole story. I want doing something right! I just followed my my photos to take you back to a moment, gut and my passions and stuck to my values so you can feel everything that’s happening, and here we are today. I’m still learning how so you can be reminded of how that person to take compliments and I’ve always suffered walked and laughed and cried. So you can from imposter syndrome, so I often have a remember the way they looked at you, and you hard time accepting accolades or awards looked at them. I think there’s a lot of power without brushing them off as luck. It was a real in that. shock to be named Australasia’s Top Emerging For anyone interested in learning more Wedding Photographer of the Year by Capture and viewing your work, where can they Magazine, and I remember quite distinctly follow along and get in touch to book bursting into hysterical laughter when I found your services? out, as though my brain couldn’t quite process You’ll find my most recent work on what was happening. Instagram @foxandkin and to dive deeper into Looking back now, I can see that it was a my world and learn more about me, check out result of an insane amount of hard work and www.foxandkin.com dedication to being the best photographer and Thanks Nic. COFFS COAST
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COFFS COAST WEDDING GUIDE - A SPECIAL focus FEATURE
WEDDING
STYLING
LAUREN VESTEY from Living Doll Premier Stylists
From modern upstyles to romantic waves and detailed braids, we are sharing the most on trend styles to help you find a look that is bride worthy, yet still feels like "you".
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hignons Brides are opting for a more effortless vibe with upstyles that are asymmetrical or have a softer almost messy finish. If you have layers, leave them out to create an even softer look around the face. Braids Braided wedding hairstyles are hotter than ever and it’s no coincidence when you take into account the surge of rustic-themed wedding affairs. However, when styled the right way, they can also be used for more formal settings as well. Halo braids, french plaits, undercut braids, braided buns, and fishtail plaits; however you want to wear them, this is one long-lasting trend that’s not going anywhere. Waves The trick to amazing waves is longevity – they need to be able to stand up to hours of posing for photos, embracing loved ones and busting a move on the dance floor – so don't be shy when applying product and bring hairspray to the reception for 50 COFFS COAST
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touch-ups. Balanced with some subtle sombre highlights to add definition and appeal, this look will last a life time. Retro-Glam If you’re inspired by vintage wedding details, borrow your hairstyle from a different decade, too, with curls and twists that would make any pin-up starlet jealous. Ponytail Love wearing your hair up but a traditional chignon is just too formal for you? Dress up a basic ponytail with intricate curls and twists. Short So long extensions are not you – minimalist pixies never looked so good. We’re psyched to see more brides embracing them on their wedding day as well! Hair Accessories From traditional veils, small tiaras, to gorgeous diamanté accessories there is a look right for everyone. But if it is simply not your style, the ever-awesome flower crown isn’t going anywhere. XO Dolls
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COFFS COAST WEDDING GUIDE - A SPECIAL focus FEATURE
DECLARING YOUR LOVE FOR YOUR PARTNER IS ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT MOMENTS OF YOUR LIFE.
Married
BY SAM
M
arried by Sam has been successfully marrying couples for the past 10 years and with her contagious, loving personality, Sam is dedicated to creating the envisioned day, one happy ever after. Hi Sam. As a Marriage Celebrant who has conducted over 400 ceremonies and is passionate about love in all forms, you enjoy nothing more than helping others celebrate their most memorable day. When was it that you took the leap and started working as a celebrant? I had moved from Alice Springs in 2007 after working in TV for over 10 years and it was always a dream of mine to be a Marriage Celebrant! I had broken my ankle in a freak accident so whilst recovering I investigated how to do this and enrolled in an online yearly course! I was working by day and studying at night. I used my poor family as actors for the video practicals that I had to submit and I graduated in 2011. I then went ahead with advertising and letting the Coffs community know about my services. That is when I decided to buy my hot pink VW Beetle and get a professional logo and website (thanks
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I’ve also been booked to go to a remote cattle station just out of Mataranka in the NT, and I’m marrying my nephew to his partner in Mudgee.
to Giant Media). I also did some wedding expos and put my name out there as much as possible – I did Focus ads too! How has your business grown, expanded and kept up with the ever-changing events in the world? It’s a business that grows organically when people can see how you deliver a wedding, plus word of mouth is so important on how people can see how you are professional and efficient too. I also took the time to make sure all my marketing was aligned from having a logo, car branding, a website I could update regularly and I started my social media too – testimonials are so powerful too. Choosing a Celebrant is so personal and I believe it’s important that you can “click”. I always market myself as fun, yet highly professional with the right equipment too. I think it’s so important that the audience can hear the ceremony clearly no matter the venue or wedding ceremony, indoors or out. Equally each couple need to trust that you will look after them, assist in creating their own
personalised ceremony and make sure it’s to their style. I work closely with each couple to make sure they are 100% happy. If I can make the ceremony part seamless then they can relax as they have so many other areas of a wedding day to organise. With 2020 taking us by storm many couples did postpone with the everchanging rules around weddings and guest numbers, dancing restrictions and social distancing. Some couples went ahead with very small intimate weddings and I did some lovely ceremonies on the beach with relatives and friends all watching via zoom! The week COVID-19 hit I had a wedding reduced from 150 guests to 50 and all of a sudden I had to remember to have sanitiser on hand, space the guest chairs and it was so hard to not do what we all do naturally and hug and kiss! Even the parents of the bride had to stop themselves giving me a hug! What services are on offer and what region do you cover? I cover the whole Mid North Coast but I’ve been so lucky to marry people all over Australia including Queensland and the Northern
WHAT NOW?
Now it's time to plan the ceremony and that can include any special mentions, a personal meeting story, particular readings, even extra symbolic rituals like a handfasting or releasing doves. It's now about making the ceremony special and tailored to each couple. Date's set… What's next? Work in your Celebrant on your ceremony and I’m a big believer in a Wedding Rehearsal too.
Some couples through. I love the Territory. This year I’m went ahead whole creating process excited to be marrying with very small of making sure their a couple at Mardi Gras intimate weddings ceremony is exactly itself in the SCC VIP box what each couple with our own butler! I’ve and I did some lovely envisioned. This part also been booked to go ceremonies on the of the day can go too to a remote cattle station beach with relatives quickly but it's actually just out of Mataranka in and friends all the most important the NT, and I’m marrying watching via zoom! part – it’s about actually my nephew to his partner declaring your love to in Mudgee. This is such your chosen life partner a rewarding and soul and you only get to that once (most times!). nourishing career. My children are now all at It’s so true that you form a special connection the marrying stage so their friends are are too, as there is a deep level of trust in me to create, so it’s extra special when you know them. I deliver and follow through – the responsibility recently married a bride in Katherine in the NT is huge. Because you discuss often their with 300 guests and she helicoptered in with meeting story and their feelings of love, it’s her father – what was special was that I was natural that you end up forming a special also the support and witnessed her birth 26 connection – it’s such a special space you share years earlier! and I love when I see them after that in the With your unique approach, ensuring you street or on social media and see their lives get to know the couple and find what unfold like with starting a family. they’re after on their big day, what is it How can people get in touch with you? that you love the most about the special Phone 0417 861 045 connections you create with clients and Email sam@marriedbysam.com.au how do you work with them to make the Web married by sam day a success? FB and Insta under Married By Sam I think it’s important to love what you do Let's get them married… and be passionate about this role as it shines
I need a good Celebrant… What should I look for? Simply call them and arrange to meet plus check out reviews and study their experience and other couples’ experiences. Ask your Celebrant questions important to you and see how they will work with you. It’s great to know their policies on when they arrive prior to your chosen time, do they offer rehearsals, do they lodge and look after all the legal paperwork, pricing and everything they offer. I do… What now? Wedding Ceremony done and a government Certificate issued BUT each couple need to wait for the Births, Deaths and Marriages Certificate to arrive to make any name changes – that usually happens within a week or two and I like to do that for all my couples. Final advice for those planning their wedding? Don’t lose the two of you in the process – be organised and book the essentials and then enjoy the ride. After all it’s about you both, so don’t do anything you don’t want to.
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COFFS COAST WEDDING GUIDE - A SPECIAL focus FEATURE
WEDDING CATERING PACKAGES
MAIN EVENT CARS Main Event Cars provides luxury cars for weddings, formals and special events, servicing the Mid North Coast from Port Macquarie to Ballina. Based in Coffs, we offer a variety of packages for Weddings, Formals and other Special Events as well as corporate travel. Main Event Cars is all about making the transport on your special day perfect. We can tailor a package to suit your needs
and even cater for your fur babies and little ones. Our fleet consists of 3 black Mercedes, one is a convertible, and a blue BMW, but if you have a special request, we will try to find your dream vehicle for you. You can contact the team on 02 8005 8692 or email info@ maineventcars.com.au for a free quote. You can find our packages and more info on our website.
Creating great food with passion, Spare Chef will help you to create memories to last a lifetime. • Bespoke menus tailored to your style & taste • High-end, restaurant quality food
• Premium bar service • Passionate & professional caterers providing peace-of-mind
0402 282 024
www.sparechef.com.au | info@sparechef.com.au
Gavin Moroney 0403 882 699 gavin@gavincreative.com 64 COFFS COAST
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