Blue Mountains Love Issue 5

ISSUE 5 AUTUMN/WINTER 2019 AUS $15 (inc gst) ISSN 2207-1431

GARDEN WEDDINGS • CHOOSING A CELEBRANT • SIREN STYLE • PAMPER PARTY • FLOWER ART • TRUE LOVE TALES

Image: Bella Lei Photography

BY SOFITEL

Elegant & Unique

MOUNTAIN WEDDINGS

Choose from picturesque surroundings that truly reveal the beauty and intimacy of your love. The perfect setting for your wedding ceremony, photography and reception amongst the natural splendour of the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains National Park.

Relax, rejuvenate, nourish... UBIKA DAY SPA OPENS AUGUST 2018

With a menu of sensual iKOU rituals inspired by nature... Ubika Day Spa is perfect for hens weekends, honeymoons and pre-wedding events.

www.fairmontresort.com.au Call 02 4785 0094 or email weddings@fairmontresort.com.au 1 Sublime Point Road, Leura

Boutique Collection Of Luxury Escapes

| A PL ACE AND TIME YOU’L L NEV ER FO R GET

The Convent Hunter Valley

C www.lilianfels.com.au

www.echoeshotel.com.au

www.hydromajestic.com.au

www.parklands.com.au

EVENTSMANAGER@ESCARPMENTGROUP.COM.AU

www.convent.com.au

Set over 50 acres at the base of magnificent Mount York, our Heritage Listed inn and grounds offer a truly unique wedding experience.

101 Hartley Vale Road, Hartley Vale NSW 2790 02 6355 0287 || collitsinn.com

Collits Inn

Photos: Petal Photography.

Suite 203, 169 Darlinghurst Road, Darlinghurst NSW 2010

daniellearmont.com.au

EDITORIAL

CONTRIBUTORS

Editor

Lisa Doust

Features Editor

Jacqueline Forster

Art Director

Lisa Reidy

Advertising Sales Manager Helen Pitcher EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES lisa@justpressed.com.au ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES contact@bluemountainslove.com.au

bluemountainslove.com.au @bluemountainslove

Blue Mountains Love magazine is a proud supporter of marriage equality and is published in the beautiful Blue Mountains by Just Pressed – ABN 93 828 170 962, 316 Leura Mall, Leura NSW 2780.

Blue Mountains Love is printed in Australia on an environmentally responsible paper manufactured under the environmental system ISO 14001, using Elemental Chlorine Free (ECF) pulp sourced from sustainable forests.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT We acknowledge the traditional custodians of the Blue Mountains, the Darug and Gundungurra peoples, where this magazine is created. We pay our respects to their elders, past and present.

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Janet James is a former editor and interior design director with some of Australia’s major design magazines, including Vogue Living, Belle and Australian House & Garden. Based in the beautiful Blue Mountains village of Leura, Janet now works as a freelance interior designer and writer.

Having known paper artist James Gordon for 30 years and collaborated with him on multiple projects, Janet was the obvious choice when it came to getting the inside story on this gifted artist. Her feature on page 84 provides great insight into James’ exquisite work.

Collaborating with us on a regular basis and always bringing his good cheer and beautiful eye for detail, Jeff Davies is a long-time Blue Mountains resident who focuses on wedding and portrait photography.

“My style is very much documentary photography and my aim is to capture as many of those special, unrehearsed moments as I can for my clients as their big day unfolds,” says Jeff. This issue he worked in unison with Snezana Knezevic to capture some divine ‘Inspiration’ at Norman Lindsay Gallery & Museum (see page 98).

Born and raised in a faraway land, Snezana Knezevic brings the spirit of Europe to her photography work in Australia. She has won numerous international awards and was a finalist in the Portrait & Documentary category of the 2018 Australian Photography Awards. Since establishing No Ordinary Day Photography back in 2016, Snezana has attracted a strong client following and now has a team that is available to cover weddings and editorial shoots in Sydney, Brisbane and the Gold Coast. We’re completely in love with the images she co-created with Jeff Davies on page 98.

A PL ACE W H E R E DR E A M S COM E A L I V E oneandonlywolganvalley.com

WELCOME

LOVE

Stories

Talking to regional providers to the wedding industry, it’s clear that an increasing number of couples are choosing to marry in the Blue Mountains – many of the venues, photographers, videographers, caterers and florists we work with report being booked out two years in advance.

This is no surprise to those of us lucky enough to live and work here. The heady mix of stunning scenery, magnificent venues and world-class talent makes it so easy to achieve your perfect wedding day, whether you’re a local or are seeking a destination you and your guests will fall in love with.

To celebrate this great news, we bring you seven True Love stories this issue. Each of the couples featured are completely enchanted by the beauty of the mountains, with most of their ceremonies taking place in the great outdoors, followed by receptions held in some of the most romantic rooms imaginable.

The dreamy image on our cover, where local model Chloe Lynch glows with natural beauty, is part of this issue’s Inspiration story, photographed at Norman Lindsay Gallery & Museum in Faulconbridge. Chloe was joined by gorgeous Michele Mtawarira of AfriChelé Dance (in Katoomba). We spent an afternoon exploring the property’s glorious grounds and having plenty of fun with photographers Jeff Davies and Snezana Knezevic (see page 98). We highly recommend a visit to this amazing property.

Enjoy!

Lisa & Jacqueline xx 10

Illustration: Melanie Vugich.

We also talk to four celebrants who work throughout the region and were only too happy to share some of their favourite wedding experiences and tips for couples in the planning phase of their big day. Local hair and makeup maestro Paul Bedggood is profiled, along with the wonderfully talented paper artist, James Gordon.

The Norman Lindsay Gallery and

A boutique wedding venue with beautiful bush surrounds, heritage sculptured gardens, and a tranquil and intimate reception space.

normanlindsay.com.au lindsayscafe.com.au

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TRUE LOVE

ON THE COVER Bridal fashion imitates art at Norman Lindsay Gallery.

Photo: Jeff Davies Photography

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Veronika and James Fairy tale romance at a Bathurst landmark Daniel and Darren High-fashion celebration for a dashing duo Ellie and Hayden Country vows and vibes amidst the rolling hills of Rydal RenĂŠe and Felicity Two beautiful brides riding high on love Meredith and Sam Core values unite a caring couple Ellie and Jared Hawkesbury haven proves perfect for these young lovers Ingrid and Iain Rustic romance at Collits Inn

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PROFILES

REGULARS

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Vision splendid Paper artist James Gordon is a cut above the rest Bringing the joy Katoomba hair-and-makeup artist Paul Bedggood opens his pamper palace

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Will you marry me?

Meet four of the region’s best celebrants

10 Welcome

Editor’s letter 14 Map

Find your way around the region 98 Inspiration

Norman Lindsay’s sirens were the inspiration

for this bridal fashion shoot 112 Wedding planner

Expertly plan your big day 114 Last word

On an emotional high

HOMEGROWN 16 We heart

A few of our favourite things 18 Beauty

Get that natural glow 89 High Five

Our top five romantic gardens

WIN, SHOP & STOCKISTS 97 Win a romantic getaway

Escape to romantic bush cabins at Possums Hideaway 108 All in the detail

A directory of fabulous local suppliers 110 Stockists 13

HEAD NORTH WEST TO: SOFALA & HILL END

HEAD WEST TO: RYLESTONE, KANDOS, CAPERTEE & WOLGAN VALLEY

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HEAD SOUTH TO: TARALGA & WOMBEYAN CAVES

Map: Kara Cooper, Mount Vic and Me.

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HEAD SOUTH EAST TO: MITTAGONG & SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS

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HEAD SOUTH TO: CAMDEN & SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS

welcome

TO OUR REGION

FROM PENRITH AND THE HAWKESBURY, THROUGH THE BLUE MOUNTAINS AND OUT TO THE CENTRAL WEST, YOUR DREAM WEDDING DESTINATION IS WAITING TO BE DISCOVERED. 15

GORGEOUS THINGS

WE THERE IS SO MUCH TO LOVE ABOUT THESE UNIQUE WEDDING VENDORS.

PUCKER UP Get up close and personal with the cutest wedding guests around. Casper, Milo and Co from Alpaca Kisses will add a little bit of Peruvian pretty to your ceremony. They are sure to be a welcome scene-stealer and a big hit with the kids. alpacakisses.com

FLOAT AWAY De-stress before or after your big day with float tank therapy at The Ripple Effect, Springwood. Floatation therapy is known to relieve anxiety, enhance performance and creativity, and improve sleep – it’s the perfect recipe for relaxed brides and grooms to be. You can even book a couples float (in separate tanks). rippleeffectfloating.com.au 16

Photos: Milton Gan, Fortunate Fellow, Joe Wigdahl, T-One Image and supplied.

VINTAGE VAN Who doesn’t love a vintage caravan… especially when it serves up cocktails! Little Gracey is an elegant and stylish pop-up caravan bar and travelling café perfect for wedding receptions and engagement parties. This vintage gem offers a unique experience for your guests with either full bar service or barista coffee and tea. littlegracey.com.au

TICK ALL THE BOXES Take the angst out of wedding planning and enlist professional help from Leisa Rodoreda of Windwood Events. With an eye for detail plus everything you need to plan, coordinate, style, set up and pack down your ceremony and reception venue, Leisa will ensure you are ready and relaxed on your special day. windwoodevents.com

CLOSE SHAVE Conceived as a curated collection of fine accoutrements for traditional wet-shavers, The Stray Whisker of Leura carries an extensive range of Australian and imported grooming products for guys and dolls. The Stray Whisker is also a stockist of Blue Mountains Love magazine. thestraywhisker.com.au

PETAL POWER Preserve your wedding bouquet in a beautiful hand-dyed silk scarf by local artist Tania Bowers of Wild Botanik.

Tania uses eco-dyeing techniques so you can cherish the memories of your big day as a piece of wearable art. wildbotanik.com

WILD BLUE YONDER Celebrating their unique style and creative flair, Maddy Searle and Jacqui Chan – the clever women behind Wild Blue Studio – have opened their very own studio space in Lawson. Drop by to chat about creating your magical wedding reception, birthday party or corporate event. wildbluestudio.com.au

SPA LIFE Treat yourself to some pure indulgence at UBIKA Day Spa at Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains, Leura.

With 16 treatment rooms, including four couples rooms and one deluxe couples room with a private spa bath, UBIKA Day Spa therapies focus on four core elements: Hydration (water), Nourishment (food), Restoration (repair and nurture) and Regeneration (exfoliating, brightening), and use organic skincare products made locally by iKOU. ubikaspa.com/leura 17

BEAUTY

NATURALLY BEAUTIFUL REBECCA SEMKEN-CLARK OFFERS VEGAN AND ORGANIC TREATMENTS.

What is a conscious beauty therapist and what prompted you to become one?

For me, being conscious means I’m aware of my industry’s impact on the environment and our health, and I’m trying to do my part to lessen that impact.

treatment, so it’s really important as a beauty therapist to listen and customise for the individual. For example, if a bride comes to me for a facial and wants to brighten and even out her skin tone for her big day, I’ll recommend adding a microdermabrasion or peel treatment.

It’s shocking that there are still so many unethical practices in the beauty industry and so many chemicals that can disrupt hormones and play a part in other health problems.

This knowledge prompted me to choose an ethical and holistic path when I started my beauty therapy business.

I decided to choose products that are cruelty free, certified organic and chemical free, as well as practices that are more environmentally sustainable.

How do you cater for brides and wedding parties?

My focus for brides is to help get their skin looking fabulous for their wedding day. I recommend a course of facials starting six to 12 weeks prior to the date. This involves weekly facial treatments, including a combination of microdermabrasion, peels and high-frequency and LED light therapy. I also offer bridal-party packages that include gel manicures and pedicures, plus spray tanning.

Which treatments do you offer?

My signature treatment is the Crystal Healing Facial.

I tailor the products I use to suit the individual skincare needs of my clients and I massage using hot and cold healing stones. I also offer traditional beauty treatments such as manicures, pedicures, brow and lash tinting, body treatments and certified organic spray tanning.

What are some of the products you use and their benefits?

Most recently I have partnered with local Blue Mountains skincare label Dermatonics, which is a professional clinic brand that combines natural and strong active ingredients for real results on acne, scar treatment and anti-aging. I also use Juniper Organic, Eco Tan, Happy Skincare and Eco Minerals Makeup. These products are all 100% natural, chemical free, cruelty free and suit a broad range of concerns, especially sensitive skin.

Why is it important to tailor beauty treatments to individual needs?

Every person who comes to see me has different concerns about their skin and different expectations of their 18

theconsciousbeautytherapist.com

Interview: Jacqueline Forster. Photo: Courtesy of The Conscious Beauty Therapist.

HERE SHE EXPLAINS WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A ‘CONSCIOUS BEAUTY THERAPIST’.

Making weddings magical

Mayfield Garden mayfieldgarden.com.au

350 Mayfield Road, Oberon +61(2) 6336 3131

TRUE LOVE

Veronika AND James BATHURST

HELD AT A BATHURST LANDMARK, THIS INTIMATE AUTUMN WEDDING CAME COMPLETE WITH FAIRY TALE TOUCHES.

An office romance that grew out of firm friendship resulted in the happiest of wedding days for Veronika and James Sjollema. “We met at work when I joined the Land and Property Information digital imaging department,” Veronika explains. “We worked in the same office for about two years and became really good friends. Eventually love blossomed and we moved in together.”

Constructed in the 1870s, the heritage-listed mansion has been owned and lovingly restored by the Morgan family across generations. Along with weddings, Christopher and Xanthe Morgan open the house for tours and special events, and the venue recently won the Central West NSW Brides Choice award for best Historic Wedding Venue.

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Words: Jacqueline Forster.

Based in Bathurst, the pair chose Abercrombie House – an historic gothic mansion on the outskirts of town – as the venue for their ceremony and reception. “When we decided to get married, Abercrombie House was the first venue that came to mind,” recalls Veronika. “We both agreed it was the perfect romantic setting.”

PHOTOS: MATTHEW HARPER PHOTOGRAPHY 21

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“ It truly was our day, just to enjoy and celebrate.

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Surrounded by farmland, the property features formal gardens and manicured lawns, which appealed to Veronika and James as the setting for their ceremony. “We held the wedding ceremony on a warm March day on the drawingroom lawn, accompanied by live harp music,” Veronika recalls. “Rose petals scattered on the lawn and wandering peacocks added to the sense of fairy-tale romance.”

The small wedding party was made up of 30 family and close friends. Veronika’s father walked her down the aisle and the couple enlisted their mates to conduct readings and act as ring bearers and witnesses. “We exchanged rings and after the first kiss as husband and wife, our family and friends rushed over to congratulate us,” Veronika remembers.

After the ceremony the newlyweds and their guests moved to the East Garden lawn for canapés and refreshments,

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later heading inside to dine amid the grandeur of the Abercrombie House ballroom.

“We didn’t have any particular theme or style but it was a very relaxed wedding with a traditional vibe,” says James.

“Christopher and Xanthe were so accommodating and understanding that at no point did we feel as though organising our wedding took effort.”

James remembers the pure joy of their wedding day.

“It truly was our day, just to enjoy and celebrate. We both had our families there and were able to share the day with people we love,” he says.

“Everything about it was perfect,” adds Veronika, “from the venue and ceremony, to the food and photography. We are very lucky.” BML

STYLE FILE RECEPTION & CEREMONY Abercrombie House, Bathurst BRIDE’S DRESS Sweethearts Bridal Boutique, Blacktown. worn with Siren shoes GROOM Tarocash suit WEDDING RINGS Regency Jewellers, Bathurst HAIR & MAKEUP Veronika did her own hair and makeup FLOWERS Bridal bouquet and boutonniere by The Flower Box, Bathurst. DIY table centrepieces were arranged using flowers from tesselaarflowers.net.au CAKE Carah’s Cakes & Pies, Bathurst CATERING Abercrombie House CEREMONY MUSIC Gwenda Davies on harp RECEPTION MUSIC Gwenda Davies on celtic harp plus a jukebox from Lithgow Party Hire PHOTOS Matthew Harper Photography

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Words: Lisa Doust.

PHOTOS: PETAL PHOTOGRAPHY

TRUE LOVE

Daniel AND Darren KATOOMBA

BEING MARRIED IN THE MAGICAL GARDEN AT LILIANFELS RESORT & SPA WAS A DREAM COME TRUE FOR GLENBROOK COUPLE DANIEL AND DARREN.

It was instant love for Daniel Learmont and Darren Smith, who met over 11 years ago at The Stonewall Hotel, one of Sydney’s oldest gay pubs. “We literally bumped into each other at the bar and that was it – we have been together ever since,” says Daniel.

According to Darren, it was a case of opposites attracting.

“We really are total opposites, which at times drives us both a little crazy but I think that’s what makes us work so well together – and we always find a common ground.”

One thing the pair have always had in common is a love of beautiful fabrics. Daniel is a talented couturier renowned for crafting exquisite gowns and Darren ensures the business side of Daniel Learmont Couture runs smoothly. They work between their Sydney atelier and their home studio in the Blue Mountains village of Glenbrook.

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“Daniel can often be seen hand-stitching and putting the finishing touches on gowns on our morning train commute from Glenbrook to Darlinghurst,” says Darren. “This often attracts attention from our fellow commuters.”

Darren and Daniel relocated from the city to the Blue Mountains a couple of years ago, seeking a change of environment and the opportunity to create a studio space at home. When they decided to marry, they wanted to find a venue in the mountains ideal for a garden wedding.

“We had done a photo shoot for the business at Lilianfels Resort & Spa in early 2017 and fell in love with its beautifully manicured gardens and immaculately preserved Victorian architecture, which is so our style,” Daniel explains.

“We also wanted to support the local trade, so a lot of the vendors we used were Blue Mountains businesses,” he adds.

“The region has so much to offer when planning your wedding day.”

Setting their date for 26 October, Darren and Daniel had 10 months to prepare for their big day. “This gave us plenty of time to plan and research every aspect of our wedding, from 30

invitations to table decorations,” says Darren. “At first, we thought we could do it all on our own but as we got closer and closer to the day, we realised how much still had to be done.”

Wanting to really enjoy their special day without having to worry about the finer details, the pair decided to hire local stylist Jessica Langley-Gardner, of The Golden Dandelion: “We provided Jess with all of our ideas and inspirations, and she created a vision board and then created our dream wedding. We couldn’t have been happier with the result – it was exactly what we wanted.”

When the big day arrived, the weather was perfect and all 75 guests gathered in the ‘Secret Garden’ at Lilianfels, located just outside of Darleys Restaurant and boasting a hedged walled garden and towering 100-year-old oak tree.

Darren and Daniel were supported by their wedding party – Best Men George and Andrew, and Groomsmaids Anastasia and Phoebe – and the ceremony was conducted by celebrant Tami Sussman. “We had been to a couple of weddings that Tami had officiated at and we were impressed by her ability to bring both tears and riotous laughter to a ceremony.”

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All 75 guests gathered in the ‘Secret Garden’ at Lilianfels, located just outside of Darleys Restaurant and boasting a hedged walled garden and towering 100-year-old oak tree.

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“Losing Kay hit us all hard. We had cared for her for about eight years prior, so not having her there was heavy in everyone’s hearts,” says Daniel. “During our ceremony, Tami spoke about how proud Kay would have been to see us marry and about her love for us both. Jess had saved a seat in the front row with a beautiful photo of Kay and a little posy of flowers, which brought tears to everyone’s eyes.”

Once married, Mr and Mr Learmont-Smith celebrated with their loved ones in the resort’s Banksia Room, which features floor-to-ceiling French doors leading out to a covered terrace and sunken courtyard, with views across the magnificent Jamison Valley.

“Having been together for 11 years, finally being able to stand in front of our most loved people – the ones who helped raise us and shape us into the people we are today – was one of the most cherished moments of our life,” says Daniel.

“Looking out and seeing a sea of Daniel Learmont Couture gowns swishing around was also a highlight,” Darren adds.

“The management and staff of Lilianfels commented that it was the best-dressed event they had ever seen!” BML

“andThestaffmanagement of Lilianfels commented that it was the best-dressed event they had ever seen!

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Tami and Jess both added special touches to the ceremony, designed to celebrate the life of Darren’s mother Kay, who had sadly passed away just three months before the wedding.

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STYLE FILE RECEPTION & CEREMONY Lilianfels Resort & Spa, Katoomba CELEBRANT Tami Sussman GROOMS Mister Mister, Sydney. Worn with Shipton & Heneage shoes, bought in England WEDDING RINGS Adina Jozsef Fine Jewellery, Sydney FLOWERS Emma at Flower Empire, Glenbrook CAKE Three-tiered Mud Cake with two flavours – Coconut, Lemon & Raspberry and Chocolate & Cherry – by Laura Ann Designer Cakes, Carlingford CATERING Lilianfels Resort & Spa MUSIC Maple Creek Music INVITATIONS etsy.com STYLIST The Golden Dandelion PHOTOS Petal Photography

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www.hillbillycider.com.au

Captured By Dee PHOTOGRAPHY

Capturing life, love & everything in between.

Blue Mountains & beyond. @capturedbydee_photography

TRUE LOVE

Ellie AND Hayden 38

RYDAL

PHOTOS: WHITE WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHERS

FOR THIS HAZELBROOK COUPLE, BEING SURROUNDED BY ROLLING COUNTRYSIDE AND THEIR LOVED ONES

Words: Lisa Doust.

MADE THEIR WEDDING DAY PERFECT.

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It was love at first sight for Ellie van Megen, who was in Year 12 when she had a chance encounter with Hayden Hofland. “My first car needed a CD player installed and my Dad knew a mechanic from our local Rural Fire Service, so asked him to come and help,” she says. “Hayden and I spent around three hours in the car, soldering wires and getting to know each other. I thought he was funny, down to earth and a bit cheeky.”

Hayden proposed the following day by producing the ring and simply asking Ellie: ‘Will you marry me?’

Keen to catch up again, Ellie did some detective work and discovered that, like her, Hayden had lived in Hazelbrook all of his life. She left a ‘Thank You’ note at his door that asked if she could help out on his next car job. They met up a week later.

Located in Rydal, 40 minutes west of Katoomba, Seclusions Blue Mountains is set on 20 acres and boasts north-facing views of rolling countryside and Mount Walker. The property also houses six boutique spa cabins, allowing wedding parties to be accommodated onsite.

After four years together, the pair became engaged in March 2015. “I had missed Valentine’s Day that year because I was in Western Australia fighting fires, so on my return I surprised Ellie with a romantic weekend away,” Hayden explains. “We drove to Berry in a blue 1966 Mustang and stayed in a beautiful room overlooking Kangaroo Valley.”

Although the venue was perfect, it wasn’t all smooth sailing in the lead-up to the wedding. “I had quit my full-time job to start a business, then we lost a friend to cancer,” Ellie explains. “Hayden had a trip to hospital, the original caterers we booked told us they couldn’t do the job and, close to the day, my childhood friend Ellen – one of my bridesmaids – had emergency surgery and was unable to attend.”

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Setting their wedding date for 21 April 2018, Ellie and Hayden had 18 months to plan their big day. “The first thing we did was book the venue,” says Ellie. We looked at Seclusions and fell in love – the whole place was so ‘us’, right down to the last detail.”

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We looked at Seclusions and fell in love – “ the whole place was so ‘us’, right down to the last detail.

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Despite the challenges, the couple forged ahead with help from family and friends. “The day ended up being perfect,” says Hayden. “It was warm and sunny with a cool night, which we enjoyed around the fire pit. And we had the wonderful Evelyn from Blue Mountains Celebrant conduct our ceremony – she made it a fun experience for everyone.”

The ceremony was held under the wisteria-laden arbour, with all 95 guests heading to the Pavilion for the reception and then into the barn for dancing and dessert. “Having the whole property to ourselves meant we had lots of options, and everyone could flow from one location to another with ease,” Ellie adds.

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To represent how they first met, the couple had two old fire trucks parked on the hill at Seclusions. “The trucks also symbolised our joint love of community and old vehicles,” says Ellie. “We also included a few traditional dances throughout the reception to celebrate my Greek heritage.”

As for their standout moments, Hayden says it was marrying his best friend and watching Ellie walk down the aisle. “For me it was seeing Hayden’s expression as I walked towards him, and he had a few tears as we said our vows, which made me love him even more.” BML

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STYLE FILE RECEPTION & CEREMONY Seclusions Blue Mountains, Rydal CELEBRANT Evelyn Calaunan of Blue Mountains Celebrant

BRIDESMAIDS Dresses and accessories from Model Chic, worn with Zulily boots FLOWER GIRLS & PAGE BOYS All clothing and shoes from Zulily JEWELLERY Handmade necklace, Lovisa earrings and Prouds bangle GROOM & GROOMSMEN Suits from Connor, Orange.

Worn with Betts shoes and accessorised with cufflinks from Teddy Sinclair, Leura WEDDING RINGS Michael Hill, Penrith MAKEUP Makeup by Marina Chiellini HAIR Samantha Morley FLOWERS Native flowers bought from Sydney Flower Markets two days prior to the wedding and arranged by Ellie and Hayden CAKE Caramel Mud Cake by Nikki’s Cake Creations, Springwood CATERING Buffet by Mountain Bites, Blaxland MUSIC Ellie and Hayden’s Spotify playlist INVITATIONS Designed by Ellie and Hayden using canva.com PHOTOS Susan White at White Wedding Photographers 46

the whole property “toHaving ourselves meant we had lots of options, and everyone could flow from one location to another with ease.

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BRIDE’S DRESS Anna Campbell Bridal dress worn with Birdsnest shoes and a handmade belt

crushcatering.com.au

TRUE LOVE

Renée AND Felicity OBERON

WHEN THE LONG-AWAITED TIME CAME TO EXCHANGE

THEIR VOWS AT BEAUTIFUL WALDARA FARM IN OBERON, RENÉE AND FELICITY DIDN’T HORSE AROUND. Cupid’s arrow, in the form of an accurately aimed paint ball, left indelible marks on the hearts of policewomen Renée and Felicity Baird-Jones. “I shot Felicity (Fliss) in the neck first and by the final round we were the last two standing,” Renée recalls. “Fliss then inflicted as many shots on me as possible and we still joke that she was hit with Cupid’s arrow.”

Renée was 20 years old at the time and had recently joined the New South Wales Police Force, working as a Constable at Campbelltown Police Station. Felicity was 29, running her own horse business, which involved breaking in horses, conducting horse transportations and operating as a farrier.

“Over time we developed strong feelings for each other but neither of us let on,” says Renée. “Then about six months after the paint-ball game, Fliss confronted me with how she felt. I panicked at first and told her we would never be together because I was straight! But the following day, I drove to her place and that was the beginning of our history together.”

The soulmates spent the next seven happy years together (during which time Felicity also joined the Police Force) but yearned to make their relationship official. “Marriage equality was still a way off for Australia,” Renée remembers.

“We talked about an illegal wedding, but this just confused my family, who thought we could go to jail!”

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PHOTOS: PEPPER IMAGE

Words: Jacqueline Forster.

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In January 2017, Renée surprised Fliss with a proposal at the luxurious Emirates One & Only Resort, Wolgan Valley. “I booked a private horse ride and when we stopped for a picnic, I got down on one knee and proposed,” she remembers. “Fliss said ‘Yes’ and I was so emotional that I was shaking and crying.”

As soon as legislation on same-sex marriage was passed, the couple started planning their special day. “We wanted to arrive at the ceremony on our horses, so we needed to find a venue that would cater for them,” says Felicity. “We love the Australian countryside and wanted to create a rustic yet elegant wedding.”

The big day started out cold and rainy and Renée confesses she was stressing out about the weather ruining their wedding. The thoughtful pair had provided knitted blankets and throws for guests to keep warm, arranged in a wooden crate with a sign saying, ‘To have and to hold in case you get cold’. Thankfully though, about an hour before the ceremony the rain stopped and the sun came out.

After a wide search, the pair discovered Waldara Farm at Oberon and knew they didn’t need to look any further. “Not only did Waldara have a big paddock for our horses, it also had stables and a beautiful timber barn for the reception,” Felicity explains.

The ceremony, conducted by Sue Jack of Truly Yours, was held on an island accessed by a cobblestone bridge. While family and friends waited on the island, Felicity and Renée rode down the drive and across the bridge with their chiffon dresses draped elegantly over the horses. After dismounting, the happy couple exchanged vows under a white gazebo decorated with more chiffon and native floral arrangements.

Cheers of delight followed emotional vows and the signing of the marriage certificate as Mrs and Mrs Baird-Jones triumphantly raised their bouquets with their hands clasped.

Then it was on to the reception.

DIY decorations allowed Renée and Felicity to theme the venue their way and the long, tree-lined drive provided a perfect entrance for the girls to arrive on horseback.

The carefully curated, rustic-themed reception was held in Waldara’s purpose-built barn, where 100 guests enjoyed a magical spectacle of fairy lights and flowers.

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a private horse ride and when we stopped “ Iforbooked a picnic, I got down on one knee and proposed.

“

Candle-lit horseshoes and strings of lights were draped through the rafters and a three-metre-long antique ladder, suspended from the central roof beam and filled with native flowers, provided the wow factor.

After enjoying a sumptuous two-course meal, speeches, a dessert buffet and the traditional cake cutting, the pair shared their first dance as Mrs and Mrs to Ben E King’s ‘Stand by Me’. They were then joined on the dance floor by Renée’s father and Felicity’s mother, for a special father/daughter and mother/daughter dance to Otis Redding’s ‘My Girl’, and soon everyone was up dancing. The party didn’t stop until midnight, when a flotilla of buses came to collect the guests and transport them back to their accommodation.

As for the mountains backdrop, the pair couldn’t have asked for better. “Felicity and I have always enjoyed spending time in the Blue Mountains,” Renée says. “We had our first date 54

at the Three Sisters, got engaged in Wolgan Valley and married in Oberon.

“The natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere attracted us to the region and choosing to marry in April allowed us to make the most of the beautiful colours of autumn.”

The location may have been easy to choose but not so a highlight from their big day. “The whole day was a highlight – from the moment we woke at 7am to the chirpy voice of talented hair-and-makeup artist Paul Bedggood, to when we saw each other in our wedding dresses,” says Renée.

“Being able to ride our stunning, well-behaved horses to the ceremony where we were met with beaming smiles, through to being legally married and then having the best party ever, was just magic!” Felicity adds. “It was a day we will never forget.” BML

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STYLE FILE VENUE Waldara Farm, Oberon CELEBRANT Sue Jack of Truly Yours

We love the Australian “countryside and wanted

“

to create a rustic yet elegant wedding.

DRESSES Both brides designed their dresses, bought the fabric then had them made by True Love Bridal Couture, Cabramatta.

Worn with Ariat knee-high riding boots HAIR & MAKEUP Paul Bedggood, Katoomba WEDDING RINGS Evans and Son Jewellers, Englorie Park JEWELLERY Swarovski earrings, Tiffany & Co necklace, Emporio Armani watch and Gucci bracelet FLOWERS The brides opted for DIY, using flowers purchased from Sydney Flower Markets CAKE Made by a family friend CATERING Felicity Thompson at Cooking Capers CEREMONY MUSIC Steve Crocker RECEPTION MUSIC Steve Crocker and band TRANSPORT FOR BRIDES Renée and Felicity rode their own horses, which were immaculately prepared and groomed for the occasion TRANSPORT FOR GUESTS Oberon Mini Buses, Oberon PHOTOS & VIDEOGRAPHY Pepper Image

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Words: Lisa Doust.

PHOTOS: SARAH MOORE

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TRUE LOVE

Meredith Sam AND

LITHGOW

EXCHANGING THEIR VOWS AT SECRET CREEK CAFÉ & RESTAURANT WAS THE NATURAL CHOICE FOR SAM AND MEREDITH, WHO BOTH HAVE A PASSION FOR ANIMAL WELFARE.

When Lillian Warren met Sam Hayden at her local church group, she suspected he might be the perfect man for her daughter, Meredith.

“My mother nearly knocked the door down when she came home to tell me she had met a vegan man who wanted to start an animal-rescue shelter like myself, and that he lived in Hartley – my dream place to live,” recalls Meredith, who had been working overseas in the fashion industry for over 20 years and had only recently returned to Australia.

As someone who prefers traditional meat-and-veg meals, Lillian couldn’t believe vegan men existed. “It was the same as meeting an alien for her,” laughs Meredith. “Sam and I had both been single for a long time, as online dating wasn’t our thing, but we were instantly connected by our shared passion for animals and animal rights.”

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After a few months of dating, Sam decided Meredith was the woman he wanted to marry. “I had to show Meredith how much she meant to me, so I took out a full-page ad in the Blue Mountains Gazette where I asked her to marry me,” he explains.

The day the ad appeared, Sam took Meredith for breakfast at Echoes Restaurant & Bar, in Katoomba, and organised 60

for a waiter to hand the newspaper to Meredith. It wasn’t long before she came across Sam’s proposal, which clearly had the desired effect.

“I said ‘Yes’ instantly, but in all the excitement Sam forgot to get down on one knee,” Meredith adds. “He made up for it the following week by formally proposing to me during a walk to Pulpit Rock Lookout in Blackheath.”

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Setting their wedding date for 31 March 2018, the couple agreed that Secret Creek Café & Restaurant, in Lithgow, was their dream venue – as well as being renowned for its vegan menu, the property is a native wildlife sanctuary that is home to quolls, dingos, long-nosed potoroos, bettongs, red-necked pademelons, rock wallabies, eastern grey kangaroos, emus and brush turkeys.

“I had time to do all of the wedding planning myself,” says Meredith. “It is important for us to be part of the local community, so we used the services of talented locals for our wedding.”

Meredith called on Celine Watz at Floral by Nature to arrange the flowers and Paul Bedggood to do her hair and makeup. She then hired Sarah Moore to capture the day: “We wanted a photographer who had a fashion background so we could work well together, and we also loved how Sarah’s wedding photos had an edge to them.”

On a perfect autumn day, Meredith and Sam said their vows onsite at Secret Creek in front of 14 close family and friends, with a further 20 guests joining them for a vegan feast at the restaurant. Andy Collins, head pastor of Blackheath Baptist Church, married the pair, who opted for a simple ceremony.

“I really loved my wedding day as it was so special for my Mum, who lost my Dad a year before and had introduced me to Sam,” says Meredith. “I loved the rustic backdrop of Secret Creek and having all the special people in our lives there to share our special day.”

Now living in Hartley with Tank the rescue dog, Meredith and Sam take full advantage of their glorious surrounds.

“We wake up to the sound of beautiful native birds and have kangaroos at the front and back door,” says Meredith.

“The Blue Mountains is such a special place.” BML

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STYLE FILE CEREMONY & RECEPTION Secret Creek Café & Restaurant, Lithgow BRIDE’S DRESS Penrith Bridal Centre, Penrith GROOM Suit from Canali WEDDING RINGS Meredith’s ring is from Bill Hicks Jewellery Design, Sydney. Sam’s ring is a family heirloom BRIDE’S HAIR & MAKEUP Paul Bedggood BRIDESMAIDS’ HAIR Tiffany Newcombe FLOWERS Floral by Nature, Kanimbla Valley CAKE & CATERING Secret Creek created the vegan menu and wedding cake PHOTOS Sarah Moore

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DISCOVER TRADITION

VISIT OUR STORE IN LEURA OR ONLINE

TRADITIONAL WET-SHAVING & GROOMING SUPPLIES

THE STRAY WHISKER SHOP, UNIT 1, 59 MEGALONG STREET, LEURA

.com.au

Ellie AND Jared

KURRAJONG HILLS

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A RELAXED VIBE AND STUNNING SURROUNDS PROVIDED THE RIGHT INGREDIENTS FOR ELLIE AND JARED’S WEDDING DAY.

PHOTOS: LAUREN KENNEDY PHOTOGRAPHER 67

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always wanted our “ Wewedding to be about

“

everyone coming together and having fun.

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After spending eight years with his girlfriend, Jared Bickford decided it was time to propose. “I surprised Ellie on an afternoon walk with our kelpie, Diesel,” he explains. “I had secretly tied the ring to Diesel’s collar with ribbon, which Ellie soon found. My proposal reflected the fact that we’re a very laidback couple, and the answer was ‘Yes’.”

The couple had been engaged for a year when their daughter arrived, which meant putting their wedding plans on hold.

“We were focused on our new little family but in late 2017 began to book things in,” says Ellie.

Living in the Hawkesbury, the couple knew they wanted to celebrate their love at a local venue on the 31 March 2018 – 10 years to the day they had met and a beautiful time of the year in the region, with lush, green gardens and striking landscapes making perfect backdrops for wedding photos.

When the day came around, the morning drizzle and clouds made way for a perfect afternoon that saw the couple united in marriage by celebrant Rimas Milasas, with daughter Bayley and 80 guests watching on.

“We always wanted our wedding to be about everyone we love coming together and having fun. With the amazing location and live music, it was certainly a celebration to remember,” says Jared.

“Having a small and manageable wedding made it all the more special,” Ellie adds. “It was easy to organise and the venue was the perfect place to share special memories with our family and friends.” BML

Words: Lisa Doust.

“We wanted a short and casual ceremony with no bridesmaids or groomsmen – the idea was for the surrounding views and landscape to be our focal point,” says Ellie. “Loxley on Bellbird Hill, in Kurrajong Hills, was the winner from the moment we stepped into the beautiful landscaped gardens. The peaceful and serene nature of the venue is very inviting.”

After wandering through the property, an acreage boasting views across the Blue Mountains and Hawkesbury Valley, Ellie and Jared chose the Garden Deck for their ceremony and loved the idea of celebrating with friends and family beneath the timber-lined cathedral ceilings in the Kauri reception room. They also appreciated the simplicity of having everything from the cake and catering to accommodation included in the venue’s wedding package.

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STYLE FILE

location “ With theandamazing live music,

“

it was certainly a celebration to remember.

CEREMONY, RECEPTION & ACCOMMODATION Loxley on Bellbird Hill, Kurrajong Hills CELEBRANT Rimas Milasas BRIDE’S DRESS madewithlovebridal.com, worn with Windsor Smith shoes and an Akubra hat FLOWER GIRL’S DRESS Bardot Junior GROOM Roger David shirt and trousers WEDDING RINGS & JEWELLERY Michael Hill, Rouse Hill HAIR & MAKEUP Airlie&Co FLOWERS The Wilde Posy Co. CATERING & CAKE Loxley on Bellbird Hill MUSIC The White Tree INVITATIONS minted.com PHOTOS Lauren Kennedy Photographer

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PHOTOS: HELLO SWEETHEART 74

TRUE LOVE

Ingrid AND Iain

HARTLEY VALE

THE RUSTIC CHARM AND ROMANCE OF COLLITS INN WAS EXACTLY WHAT INGRID AND IAIN HAD ENVISIONED FOR THEIR SPECIAL DAY. Having met at the Retro Hotel in Sydney back in 2012, Ingrid Woon and Iain Cowan became engaged on 23 June 2017. “Iain proposed to me at his family home in Castle Hill,” Ingrid recalls. “He organised an indoor picnic by candlelight in front of a projector screen with a video he had made showcasing photos of our time together.”

Iain’s video ended with the words ‘Will you marry me?’, at which point he dropped to his knee. Fortunately Ingrid said an instant ‘Yes’, as Iain had arranged for both of their immediate families to arrive shortly after his proposal so they could all celebrate together.

After deciding on 5 May 2018 as the date for their big day, the Sydney couple agreed that they wanted a destination wedding.

Words: Lisa Doust.

“The idea was to make a whole weekend out of the day with our family and friends, which made it very special,” says Iain. “We were able to have a ‘wedding eve’ gettogether the night before at Blackheath’s local pub, the Gardners Inn. This was a great opportunity to have a catchup with everyone that had made the effort to come from Sydney, interstate and overseas for our wedding, and it set the ball rolling for celebrations the next day.”

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When it came to deciding on a venue, the couple was adamant about wanting an outdoor ceremony in a classic Blue Mountains setting. “We fell in love with Collits Inn the first time we saw it,” says Ingrid. “The beautiful, rustic barn was so romantic and charming, and we thought the gorgeous lake and stunning mountains surrounding the property would make the perfect backdrop for our ceremony and the relaxed garden party we were planning before the reception.”

Ingrid and Iain did all of their own planning and spent time reading reviews on local wedding vendors. “Throughout most of the planning period we were in very close contact with our amazing florist, Trish Carter from Blue Mountains Floral Designs, who helped us as we tweaked our vision for the flowers and barn setup,” says Ingrid.

“In addition, the team at Collits Inn were very warm and friendly from the outset, which helped to make the planning process and the day itself relaxed, enjoyable and fun,” she adds.

The day before their wedding was bitterly cold and blowing a gale, so Ingrid and Iain could do little but cross their fingers and hope Mother Nature would be kind.

“Waking up on the Saturday morning was magical – there wasn’t a cloud in the sky, the sun was shining and everything was so still,” says Iain. “Thankfully that stunning weather hung around and the day ended with the most amazing sunset glow, which was captured in our wedding photos.”

Joined by four bridesmaids, four groomsmen, Iain’s goddaughter Mackenzie as flower girl and 140 guests, Ingrid and Iain walked under an aisle of olive trees and were married beneath an arbour by celebrant Allegra Hartford Davis.

“We wrote our own vows and had Iain’s sister and my brother do a reading each,” says Ingrid. “Allegra also had some fabulous ideas which we incorporated into the ceremony, including a ‘Warming of the rings’, whereby our wedding rings were passed around to all of our guests so they were ‘warm’ by the time we put them on.”

Another lovely ritual involved having both Ingrid and Iain’s mothers light a double-wick candle during the ceremony, symbolising the coming together of both families. “It was so much fun and all our guests commented on the uniqueness of the ceremony,” Ingrid adds.

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“I will never ever forget the moment I saw Ingrid step out from behind the olive trees on the arm of her Dad. She was breathtaking,” says Iain.

Along with being driven from Mount Victoria to Collits Inn by her Dad on the way to be married, walking down the aisle was a major highlight for Ingrid: “Seeing Iain standing at the end under the amazing floral arbour with a huge smile on his face, in front of our closest friends and family, was a surreal moment for me.”

Ingrid also loved stepping into the barn for the first time and seeing the outstanding job Trish had done with the flowers, foliage and styling on the tables, with candles and romantic glowing lights. “It was just magical, and all my dreams came true!” BML

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Waking up on the Saturday “morning was magical – there

“

wasn’t a cloud in the sky.

STYLE FILE RECEPTION & CEREMONY Collits Inn, Hartley Vale CELEBRANT Allegra Hartford Davis of Married By Allegra BRIDE’S DRESS, VEIL & BOLERO All from Karen Willis Holmes, Alexandria. Worn with shoes from asos.com and Lovisa earrings BRIDESMAID Dresses from Witchery. Worn with shoes from asos. com and Forever New faux-fur wraps and jewellery BRIDAL PARTY ROBES lerose.com.au GROOM & GROOMSMEN Oxford suits and accessories.

Worn with Williams shoes WEDDING RINGS St Germain Jewellers, Castle Hill HAIR The Bridal Hair Co MAKEUP The Bridal Makeup Co FLOWERS Trish Carter at Blue Mountains Floral Designs, Woodford CAKE Two-tier, semi-naked Caramel Mud Cade with a frosted finish and gold flakes, make by JK Cake Designs, Castle Hill.

Additional florals by Trish Carter at Blue Mountains Floral Designs CATERING Chris at Collits Inn prepared a three-course banquet of shared platters and a dessert bar featuring a selection of small puddings CEREMONY MUSIC Acoustic music by LZ Trio RECEPTION MUSIC DJ Adam from The Vintage Stylus INVITATIONS, WELCOME SIGN & MENUS Michael Cooper Graphic Design TRANSPORT Guests travelled to and from the venue on Lithgow Buslines chartered buses ACCOMMODATION On the eve of the wedding, Ingrid and her family stayed at Grandview Haus, Mount Victoria, and Iain and his groomsmen stayed at Collits Inn. After their wedding, the couple stayed at Collits Inn PHOTOS Hello Sweetheart 81

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Words: Janet James. Photos: Captured by Dee.

PROFILE

Vision SPLENDID

INDIVIDUALITY DEFINES JAMES GORDON. FROM THE THOUGHTFUL SOPHISTICATION OF HIS FLOWER PAINTINGS TO HIS SERENELY CHIC OR WILDLY EXUBERANT WORK FOR WEDDINGS AND SPECIAL OCCASIONS, EVERY DAY IS A CELEBRATION OF BEAUTY FOR THIS UNIQUELY GIFTED ARTIST.

Looking back on his lifelong love of creating things, James Gordon says he was inspired enormously by a wonderfully cultured relative he lived with for four years as a young boy.

“My Aunt spoke French and Italian, played the piano, enjoyed movies from around the world and was a knitter and beautiful embroiderer,” James recalls. “She had great, groaning beds of violets and taught me how to embroider the flowers. They are still my favourite flowers and I absolutely love the colour.”

Encouraging him to explore his talents, James’s adoring Aunt set him on a creative path that has included illustration, fine art, event design, art direction and paper sculpting. His stellar career includes working as a stylist for Vogue Australia magazine, helping to get Vogue Taiwan and Vogue Korea off the ground, launching products for Louis Vuitton and Gucci, coordinating a runway show for Chanel and designing the logo for Colette Dinnigan’s eponymous fashion label.

James also formed a hugely successful events company in Sydney, which was charged with planning the wedding of James Packer and Jodhi Meares, and the Moroccan-themed wedding of Lachlan Murdoch and Sarah O’Hare – events he describes as “unbelievable” and “sensational”.

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FOR ART LOVERS From 14-17 March, James will have his new paper-cut works on display at The Other Art Fair, held at Australian Technology Park in the Sydney suburb of Eveleigh.

Presented by Saatchi Art, this annual event allows you to purchase original works directly from a selection of handpicked artists. sydney.theotherartfair.com 84

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“I’ve also hand-painted fabrics for wedding gowns – I painted one where the skirt was made to look like a blue-and-white Chinese urn,” says James. “I love quirky; something that makes people smile. And I love detail.

I also love working with clients who appreciate the original perspective I provide; who are not afraid to take risks and like to be challenged to do something different.”

After holding sellout exhibitions of his paper sculptures at Olsen Gallery in Sydney and The Cat Street Gallery in Hong Kong, James’s passion for working with paper increased and he now blends his cut-paper work with fine art. “I love creating paper flowers, particularly in white, but I can hand-paint them in any colour,” says James.

James says his clients appreciate the handmade nature of his work, as it means everything is a one-of item that can’t be found anywhere else. “They also get to keep the original artwork,” he adds.

Running his “one-man design and creative studio” from Leura, James intermittently hosts intimate ‘Salone’ shows at home, inviting locals and Sydney friends to see his latest creations.

“There’s a certain magic about working in the Blue Mountains. I love the light, the vistas and the quiet, and I find the eclectic gardens that mix European sensibility with natural Australian bush so beautiful,” he says. “Bob and I are thrilled to be here.” BML

Photos: Jennifer Leahy, Silversalt Photography.

James relocated to Leura four years ago with his dog, Bob, and has since exhibited his cut-paper art at the Blue Mountains Cultural Centre and Platform Gallery, both in Katoomba. Last year he was commissioned by Olivia Meredith of The Little Flower Shop in Wentworth Falls to paint one of his own floral designs – it’s Olivia’s way of promoting local artists and the painting (of violets) has since been turned into cards that are sold in her shop.

James has also picked up plenty of work with private clients since moving to the mountains: “A beautiful job I loved creating was for the wedding of Ella Brinch and Neven Basic here in the Blue Mountains – Ella thrillingly held a paper bouquet of peonies, flannel flowers and eucalyptus, and it’s something she can keep forever. I also made the name cards for the couple’s guests and the paper ribbon and flower decorations for the cake.”

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HIGH FIVE

GARDENS Words: Lisa Doust. Photo: Domino Houlbrook-Cove Photography.

PROVIDING THE IDEAL BACKDROP FOR YOUR WEDDING PHOTOS, THE REGION’S FINEST COOL-CLIMATE GARDENS ARE REPLETE WITH BEAUTY AND ROMANCE. 1 EVERGLADES HISTORIC HOUSE & GARDENS, LEURA: Constructed in the 1930s by renowned Danish landscape designer Paul Sorensen and inspired by lavish European gardens, Everglades boasts rare trees, shrub borders, woodlands, terraced lawns, stone walls, winding paths, a grotto, pools and fountains, all of which blend into the natural bush surrounds.

2 MAYFIELD GARDEN, OBERON (pictured): Set over 16 acres, Mayfield Garden is nothing short of magnificent. Take your time exploring the Water Garden, where the lily ponds are straight out of a Monet painting. One area of the garden features an annual planting of nasturtium and wildflowers, which is breathtaking during the summer months. Constructed features, follies and interactive garden games add to the property’s immeasurable charm.

3 THE BLUE MOUNTAINS BOTANIC GARDEN, MOUNT TOMAH: Celebrating its 30th birthday in 2017, this magical garden focuses on the conservation of cool-climate plants and offers 28 hectares to explore at your leisure. Wander

through various woodlands, learn about Wollemi pines, marvel at the diverse range of flowering plants and learn all about one of Australia’s most magnificent native shrubs at the onsite Waratah Education Centre.

4 THE CAMPBELL RHODODENDRON GARDENS, BLACKHEATH: One of Blackheath’s main attractions, these beautiful gardens are most spectacular in October and early November, when the exotic mix of rhododenrons burst into bloom.

You’ll also find an array of azaleas, deciduous trees and conifers planted amid the bushland setting.

5 WINDYRIDGE GARDEN, MOUNT WILSON: Dating back to 1877, Windyridge was given a grand makeover by Rodger and Wai Davidson, who took the property over in 1995. Along with planting thousands of flowering plants, the pair added a lily pond, waterfall, formal parterre garden, bluebell wood, rainforest and a magnolia garden – all interconnected by cleverly designed walkways. BML 87

PROFILE

BRINGING THE

Joy

WITH HIS AMAZING TALENT AND UNIQUE SENSE OF JOIE DE VIVRE, PAUL BEDGGOOD IS THE HAIR-AND-MAKEUP ARTIST YOU’LL WANT FOR

Paul (Paulie) Bedggood says he found “home” when he moved to the Blue Mountains four years ago. The son of a Ballarat publican, who pursued a career in hair and makeup artistry from the tender age of 15, made a name for himself in the bright lights of Sydney before embarking on a tree change to Katoomba, with partner Jason.

“I spent 11 years in Newtown and loved living and working there but, being a country boy, I needed to get back to nature,” Paulie says. The couple enjoyed a stint in Coalcliff, on the South Coast, which was still close enough to the city for work and play, but were often drawn to the Blue Mountains.

“We spent a lot of weekends in Leura and Katoomba, and every time we hit that freeway and started heading up the mountain it felt like coming home. I just knew that this was our place,” he adds.

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Words: Jacqueline Forster. Photos: Jennifer Leahy, Silversalt Photography.

YOUR WEDDING, CELEBRATION OR GIRLS’ GET-TOGETHER.

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Four years on, Paulie and Jason couldn’t be happier.

“The pulse up here makes me so happy,” Paulie explains.

“I feel like I’m living back in Sydney’s Inner West but with a full mountains vibe. I love the fresh air, I love that we get proper seasons and I love that I get to wear all my jackets – I can’t stop buying them!”

And there’s plenty of local work to keep Paulie busy.

“The Blue Mountains is the wedding capital of NSW,” he declares. “The talent up here never ceases to amaze me.

We have such amazing venues, photographers, florists, stylists, cake artists – you name it.

“People come from all over the world to see the Blue Mountains – why wouldn’t you want to get married here?”

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A-LISTER Paulie’s impressive résumé may boast big-name labels and celebrities but he is equally at home with intimate friend groups as he is among the glamorous world of studio lights and models. There is a genuine passion for his profession plus an energy level few can match that Paulie brings to every event, photo shoot and wedding.

Paulie@Tiwilla offers beauty days for groups of girlfriends (up to six people). The morning begins with a relaxing neck-and-shoulder massage, followed by beauty treatments, makeup lessons and hair styling, while enjoying canapés, cocktails, the stunning bush setting and laughs aplenty courtesy of Paulie’s bubbly personality.

“I’ve been shooting for 21 years, and working in the industry all my life, so most of the people I shoot with are my family,” he explains. “I’m still doing campaigns for Sunseeker, Toyota and Connor (among others) because I love it. It makes my heart thrive!

“Just grab a handful of your besties and let the pampering begin,” Paulie says. “After five or six hours of amazing beauty treatments, you’ll walk out feeling a million bucks, all set for a night on the town in the mountains… Happy dayzzz!”

“When we work a 14-hour day you come out of it feeling totally pumped because you’ve been creating magic with the people you love.”

Creating magic closer to home was the impetus for Paulie to build his own beauty studio in Katoomba. Launched in 2018, Paulie@Tiwilla, has cemented the artist’s position as the host with the most when it comes to pamper parties.

“I’ve dreamed of creating my own space for many years and I just love the energy and joy that it brings me and all my clients,” he says.

Happy days, indeed. It seems life has never been better for Paulie since moving to the mountains and opening his studio. “It’s like the universe just knew my door was open,” he muses. “So much love and good energy has flowed through that door. I thank the universe every day and I look forward to the rest of our journey.” BML paulbedggood.com

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Interviews: Jacqueline Forster and Lisa Doust. Photo: Geoff Beatty at Still Photography.

PROFILE

WILL YOU

Marry me?

CHOOSING A CELEBRANT IS EQUALLY IMPORTANT AS CHOOSING A VENUE OR WEDDING DRESS BUT HOW DO YOU PICK THE RIGHT PERSON TO MARRY YOU? WE SPOKE TO FOUR OF THE REGION’S BEST CELEBRANTS TO FIND OUT. A LOVE STORY Evelyn Calaunan’s background in customer service and expert public speaking skills will ensure you celebrate your love story in style.

Why did you most want to become a celebrant?

When I turned 40, I was going through a work/life transition regarding the sort of job I wanted to do, and the thought of being involved in peoples’ important milestone ceremonies appealed to me. I’ve worked in hospitality for airlines, hotels and tour and holiday accommodation companies so customer service is second nature to me.

I’m also a bit of a public-speaking nerd, having been a member of Blue Mountains Toastmasters for over 10 years and a community radio presenter for five years.

As a celebrant, I can indulge two of my passions – milestone ceremonies and public speaking.

What’s the best part of your job?

I absolutely love telling a couple’s love story. Most of the wedding guests might know it but during the ceremony is a perfect time to share it. The reaction from guests, with laughter, shout-outs or applause, is what I enjoy the most.

Describe your professional style.

I would describe my style as warm, attentive and vibrant.

A couple’s wedding day is about them and I will confidently guide them in creating a ceremony that reflects their wishes.

Presentation is extremely important to me, so couples can

be assured that I will dress professionally, with hair and makeup done to a high standard. Most importantly, the volume of my voice will be heard, words spoken clearly and the ceremony delivered to an exceptional level.

Are there any amusing or standout moments from the ceremonies you have performed?

I would say all the particularly funny moments in a wedding have been when children or animals are involved – you know the saying! I have also married a few couples where the bride or groom had a terminal condition. In those highly emotional instances it is important to focus on the moment and the enormous love the couple share.

What makes the Blue Mountains the perfect place to be married?

It’s a World Heritage site for starters! Stellar wedding venues, captivating lookouts, creative wedding suppliers, the wide variety of restaurants, eclectic shops, bushwalking trails and most of all that fresh mountain air all make for an unforgettable experience.

What’s the best advice you can give couples?

The biggest tip is to be happy with your wet-weather alternate venue, as there is a good chance that it may rain.

Don’t despair if it does rain, though, as I have found those ceremonies ended up being more memorable and the photos were often better – the light truly is more magical than on a sun-drenched day. bluemountainscelebrant.com.au 93

HEART FELT Aaron McDonnell of Ceremonies by Aaron is renowned for combining professionalism with fun.

When and why did you decide to become a celebrant?

I was officially appointed as a celebrant in late 2016 – I was asked by friends of mine if I would become a celebrant to marry them. One is a really close girlfriend from school who comes from a strong Catholic family and her fiancé is someone who hasn’t made his mind up on what he does or doesn’t believe in. So, who better to ask to marry them than their fun, enthusiastic, engaging – and most likely out of their friends to be either a priest or a politician – long-term friend?

What sets you apart from other celebrants?

I think I’m one of a kind. I’m not adverse to travelling, doing something out of the box, being a little bit random or hearing an idea and responding with, ‘Hell yes, that’s awesome – let’s do it!’

My approach is very relaxed, down to earth, realistic, honest and sincere. I wear my heart on my sleeve. If I like something I say so; if something could be done better or a problem is presented to me – I’ll respond with, ‘Sure, no worries, let’s deal with it, and maybe try it this way’. You won’t get a cookie-cutter, template wedding from me but you will certainly get plenty of smiles, hopefully a laugh and maybe even a sneaky happy tear or two.

What can couples expect when they hire you to marry them?

A sense of comfort knowing that even though I am relaxed, fun and engaging, I’ll take care of everything in a professional and efficient way. The best man forgot the rings on the wedding day? No worries, I have a spare set in my ‘celebrant kit’. The groomsmen haven’t snipped the threads from the slits of their suit jackets and need to hem a cuff urgently? No problem, I’ve got a pair of scissors and a sewing kit handy. The jazz trio hasn’t turned up or the soloist has lost their voice? No drama, I’ve already downloaded the songs requested for the wedding. No matter the problem, I usually tend to have a back-up plan or contingency means to address it. Rehearsals and regular contact with the couples is also something you can count on me for.

Is there a particular wedding experience that stands out for you?

A memorable but embarrassing blooper, officiating at the wedding ceremony of the friends who asked me to become a 94

celebrant. Rather than saying, ‘We gather to witness Ryan and Sarah express their love for each other’, I said, ‘We gather to watch Ryan and Sarah make love’. It was a facepalm moment that brought the house down with laughter.

What do you most love about working regionally?

The opportunity to travel and visit so many different towns and local communities. Staying at country pubs and B&Bs, meeting the locals, shopping at regional stores, checking out the tourist spots and eating the best steaks and chicken parmigianas around!

I have made some wonderful friends, discovered some amazing places and am accumulating plenty of stories and weird and funny experiences – i.e. getting lost then getting directions from local farmers, trying to dodge the rabid kangaroos, bumping into old school mates at random country pubs and enduring the heat of Western NSW to name but some of many different aspects of the job!

Any suggestions for couples planning their big day?

Don’t over plan – you want to have left room to have some fun. You’ve done the ground work and prepared everything in case of x, y and z, so leave the rest to those you have paid – the vendors and suppliers – and we will do everything we can to ensure you remember and enjoy it! ceremoniesbyaaron.com.au

TRULY, MADLY, DEEPLY Standing by her motto – ‘Your wedding, your way’ – Sue Jack helps couples to personalise their most memorable day.

Is there any one reason you wanted to be a celebrant?

I was motivated to become a celebrant when two of my friends announced they were to be married. I had been looking for something that gave me the opportunity to share in the happiness of others and to use my organisational skills, and another friend who had taken up celebrancy a few years earlier was constantly telling me how much she loved it. She was right – it’s a great job to have.

I took quite a bit of time to come up with a name for my business because I wanted something that would reflect my approach. The name Truly Yours encapsulates what I offer – a ceremony that is customised to each couples’ style and tells each couples’ personal love story.

Which aspect of your job is the most enjoyable?

I really enjoy everything about the process. From the first meeting where a couple will tell me a little about themselves and how they met, then as we become more comfortable with each other, the great stories and milestones they have shared during their relationship.

I particularly like customising the ceremony to include anecdotes from the couple and working with them to design their vows. Often I am the only other person to see the vows before the ceremony, which I think is very special.

He was about three lines into it before he realised he was reciting the lyrics to Rick Astley’s ‘Never Gonna Give You Up’. The guests were delighted and there was uproarious laughter.

Why is the Blue Mountains such a fabulous wedding destination?

We are so lucky to have so many wonderful venues available here. I am always delighted to share views I get to see every day with bridal parties and visitors to the region. There is a place that will reflect whatever atmosphere you are after, sweeping views of bush or escarpment, stately vintage hotels and magnificent food and wine. The summer days are warm with vast blue skies and the winter chill provides an opportunity to sit by a fire and soak up the atmosphere.

In your opinion, what should couples focus on when preparing for their special day?

There is a lot of planning to do, so start early. Celebrants are often booked two or even three years in advance. Think about what you as a couple want for your big day. Advice will be given by all of your friends and relatives but really it is about the two of you, and the ceremony and reception should reflect your style, your personalities and your love.

Above all, prepare to enjoy your day. Be relaxed. There are no hard and fast rules – for example, if you feel better being together before the ceremony, then do that. If you want to have lots of mystery and make an entrance that will take your partner’s breath away – do that! My role is to make your day as wonderful as I can and that’s what I gain job satisfaction from. BML trulyyours.com.au

Describe the approach you take to your work.

I have a very relaxed and fun approach to each wedding I conduct. Of course there are the formalities, which deserve a certain respect due to the commitment being made. It’s the time when the couple declares before their friends and family that they love each other and want to be together always. But because they are among friends and loved ones, the ceremony can contain inside jokes and references to make special mention of some of the guests.

Do you have a favourite ceremony you have performed?

Every ceremony is special in its own way. I love to watch couples preparing for their big moment. Often the most confident partner will be in floods of tears during the declaration of vows. And then there was the time that one couple hilariously ‘Rick-rolled’ the groom’s younger brother.

They had him deliver a ‘reading’ during the ceremony that he hadn’t seen previously.

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LOVE IS IN THE AIR Susan Artup has been a celebrant for 25 years and has even written a book to help couples design their perfect wedding ceremony.

What inspired you to become a celebrant?

I was teaching languages when one of my colleagues was married by a celebrant in Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden.

At the time I was looking for ‘career enhancement’, but not in education. I thought, “I could do that”, so I applied to the Commonwealth Attorney General for authorisation.

I thought there was enough theatre in me to create a miniproduction for people, to design a ceremony with the right words, the right flow, with music and readings, bespoke to them – a true reflection of their relationship. Also, I wanted to get to wear all my good frocks and recite poetry!

What are the most important and enjoyable parts of your job?

I encourage couples to write their own vows and to really think about their relationship. That is the most important part of being married; knowing who you are and what you want from the commitment. I also make sure all the legalities are dealt with promptly and smoothly.

The most enjoyable thing about being a celebrant is the rapport, of course – you just have to click with couples.

My job is to make people happy, to witness the moment of transition from two people to one couple. It is such an intimate moment, a joy and a privilege, especially in the case of same-sex couples who have waited so long for marriage equality, often in decades-long relationships. Their moment of happiness makes my heart swell!

Describe your style and what couples can expect from you.

I have had constant feedback that I make the process of getting married uncomplicated and that I am a calming influence on the day. This really is the definition of expertise – to make your ‘customers’ feel they are in good hands; to take the worry away. Couples can expect the benefits of 25 years’ experience, style and sophistication, a good speaking voice and flexibility up to and on the day.

Is there a particularly emotional ceremony you have performed?

There are too many but in 2018 the gay ceremonies touched me most. To be the one who has been central to a life-changing moment is amazing. I’ve married two mums who have made and elicited promises from their children, giving them rings and honouring their individual roles in the family, and I’ve married two guys 96

whose ceremony had all the entertainment of a drag show – so out-there and colourful. Their theme was ‘flamingo, retro, disco’ and I loved fitting in as I’m the second campest celebrant in the region (the first is a real drag queen – can’t compete with that!).

What’s so special about getting married in the Blue Mountains?

The Blue Mountains is a wedding destination and the ideal place to work as a celebrant. Many of my couples come from outside the area to be married, as many as locals. Local couples can have their weddings at home as their gardens are just beautiful, or in favourite hotels or restaurants. People travel to settle for the weekend in a lovely old guesthouse with all their family and friends or in a luxurious hotels. In my book – Love is in the Air – there is a chapter titled ‘Your Wedding Space’, which describes many of the local venues that have been perfect for ceremonies over the years – each has its own style and charm.

Any tips for couples planning their big day?

Be calm and carry on – seriously! Be organised but not too controlling, by which I mean delegate responsibilities. Put someone in charge of the running order of the day to keep things on track, get someone else to get kids ready and look after grandparents. Confirm all your service providers a few days before and practice walking in your wedding shoes (shorten the dress if you keep stepping on it). Don’t forget the rings (it happens often!) and get someone to rehearse playing the music. Remember that if things do go awry, it doesn’t matter – you will still have a lovely ceremony as people are only there because they love you.

Love is in the Air by Susan Artup is available from Amazon or your favourite bookseller. aceremonybydesign.com.au

COMPETITION

Win

A Romantic Getaway

ESCAPE THE EVERYDAY IN

Blue Mountains Love and Possums Hideaway at Federation Gardens, Blackheath,

A ROMANTIC BUSH CABIN

are giving one lucky couple the chance to win a two night stay*

AT POSSUMS HIDEAWAY.

in one of their romantic yurt-style tree-house cabins.

Privately nestled in a natural bush setting, you will find it hard to believe you are only two hours from Sydney and five minutes from the award-winning restaurants, cafés, antique shops and points of interest that Blackheath and the Blue Mountains region have to offer.

Congratulations to Tyler Maher of Victoria, who won our ‘romantic getaway’ competition to Eagle View Escape in issue 4 of Blue Mountains Love.

Each Possums Hideaway self-contained, studio-style, couples cabin has a queen-size bed with quality linen, cosy wood-burning fire and a spa for two, as well as a possum box for feeding your nightly visitors.

Photo: Courtesy of Possums Hideaway.

Offering late checkout of 12 noon, 24-hour access to the heated pool and the option to pre-order breakfast hampers, you’ll love your stay at Possums Hideaway. *Terms and conditions apply. Competition opens Thursday 14 February 2019 and closes Friday 28 June 2019. The prize is for a two consecutive-night stay in a Possums Hideaway Couples Cabin (excluding public holidays, long weekends and Valentine’s Day, and subject to availability.) One entry per person. Winner will be notified by email.

To enter, simply email your name and contact details to competition@ bluemountainslove.com.au and answer the following question in 30 words or less: Why would you like to win a romantic getaway to the Blue Mountains? federationgardens.com.au 97

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I N S P I R AT I O N

Sirens ENCHANTING, ALLURING AND SEDUCTIVE,

NORMAN LINDSAY’S MUSES WERE THE INSPIRATION FOR THIS DREAMY SHOOT IN THE GROUNDS OF THE GREAT ARTIST’S BLUE MOUNTAINS HOUSE AND GARDEN.

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Michele wears Matheson + Me ‘Blake’ georgette gown in dove grey with off-the-shoulder ruffle sleeves.

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Chloe wears Matheson + Me ‘Elise’ silky tulle skirt in nude and ivory, with low-back sheer illusion and hand-beaded bodice.

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Michele wears Matheson + Me ‘Elisabeth’ Chantilly lace gown in ivory with champagne underlay and ballerina skirt.

Right: Chloe wears Matheson + Me ‘Brandi’ skirt in platinum with ‘Bobi’ lurex-lace reverse wrap top in black.

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STYLE FILE VENUE Norman Lindsay Gallery & Museum, Faulconbridge BRIDAL GOWNS Matheson + Me, North Sydney HAIR Euphoria Hair by Kellie Adler, Wentworth Falls MAKEUP Danielle Hampton, Lithgow ACCESSORIES & FLOWERS Bride La Boheme ‘Callista’ headpiece and flowers supplied by The Little Flower Shop, Wentworth Falls.

MODELS Chloe Lynch and Michele Mtawarira PHOTOS Jeff Davies at facebook.com/Jeffweddings and Snezana Knezevic at noordinaryday.com.au

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{ all in the detail }

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CEREMONIES BY AARON

DRYRIDGE ESTATE

Aaron McDonnell is a one-of-a-kind, energetic and eager celebrant who is keen to listen and work with you to ensure your wedding is not only unique but memorable. If you’re after a personalised and relaxed ceremony that strikes the balance between fun, professional, composed and intimate, with a good dose of humour thrown in, don’t hesitate to get in contact with Aaron.

Surrounded by towering sandstone escarpments and offering some of the region’s most outstanding scenery, Dryridge Estate is a fabulous boutique vineyard nestled deep in Megalong Valley. The venue offers beautiful accommodation, an expansive clear-roof marquee, a stunning ceremony area, incredible wine and a range of options for weddings of all shapes and sizes.

ceremoniesbyaaron.com.au

dryridge.com.au

SUE DALEY PHOTOGRAPHIC

TRULY YOURS CEREMONIES

An exhibiting artist who loves recording the obvious bonds of love and friendship revealed on your special day, Sue Daley says photographing a wedding is like being involved in a wonderful piece of theatre, where the goal is to capture each player at their best and to document the joyfulness of the day. Sue’s unique use of photomontage adds stunning individuality to your wedding album.

‘Your wedding. Your day. Your way’... This is how Sue Jack of Truly Yours Ceremonies approaches the design and delivery of your ceremony. Whether you want formal or fun, simple or spectacular or a mix of everything, Sue’s role is to make your ceremony everything you want it to be; a ceremony that is “truly yours”.

suedaleyphotographic.com

trulyyours.com.au

BLUE MOUNTAINS CELEBRANT

JEFF DAVIES PHOTOGRAPHER

Evelyn Calaunan has over 10 years of experience as a celebrant and delivers professional, efficient and friendly wedding services for all her clients. Evelyn can help you tailor the perfect ceremony at any of the unique Blue Mountains venues or lookouts, and her style is warm, attentive and vibrant, which means a memorable and relaxed day for you.

Jeff Davies is a professional wedding and social-documentary photographer based in the beautiful Blue Mountains. His style of photography is informal and he loves capturing those little moments that occur throughout your wedding day; moments that tell your story and create memories that you will cherish for a lifetime.

bluemountainscelebrant.com.au

facebook.com/Jeffweddings

BLUE MOUNTAINS FLORAL DESIGNS

A CEREMONY BY DESIGN

Blue Mountains Floral Designs creates beautiful, eco-thoughtful wedding and event flowers with as little environmental impact as possible. Owner Trish Carter buys locally sourced and environmentally sustainable products, forages plant matter on her mid-mountains property and recycles and composts all the waste her business generates. Image by Ann Marie Yuen Photography.

In over 20 years as a celebrant, Susan Artup has created ceremonies reflecting the personal style of her couples and capturing the tone they wish for.

A marriage starts in the heart and, straight or gay, the celebration of your commitment and the expression of your vows should be absolutely everything you desire.

bluemountainsfloraldesigns.com

ceremonybydesign.com.au 109

STOCKISTS ACCOMMODATION

BRIDAL WEAR

Eagle View Escape 1300 851 829 eagleview.com.au

Anna Campbell Bridal 03 9822 1293 annacampbell.com.au

Escarpment Group 02 4780 1200 Escarpmentgroup.com.au

Daniel Learmont Couture 0415 217 266 daniellearmont.com.au

ART

Karen Willis Holmes 02 9519 3901 karenwillisholmes.com

James Gordon 0449 893 441 jamesgordon.com.au The Other Art Fair, Sydney sydney.theotherartfair.com

Made with Love Bridal madewithlovebridal.com

CELEBRANTS/ OFFICIANTS

FASHION & ACCESSORIES

A Ceremony by Design Susan Artup 0408 826 743 ceremonybydesign.com.au

Akubra akubra.com.au

Blue Mountains Celebrant Evelyn Calaunan 0425 340 666 bluemountainscelebrant.com.au Ceremonies by Aaron Aaron McDonnell 0400 002 019 ceremoniesbyaaron.com.au

BEAUTY

Matheson + Me 02 9955 9005 Mathesonandme.com

The Conscious Beauty Therapist 02 4782 6126 theconsciousbeautytherapist.com

Penrith Bridal Centre 02 4731 2308 penrithbridalcentre.com.au

The Ripple Effect 02 4751 1816 rippleeffectfloating.com.au

Sweethearts Bridal Boutique 02 9622 8965 sweetheartsbridal.com.au

Tami Sussman 0413 389 621 aussiecelebrant.com

UBIKA Day Spa 02 4785 0062 ubikaspa.com/leura

True Love Bridal Couture 02 9725 6577 @TrueLoveCouture

Truly Yours Sue Jack 0418 411 683 trulyyours.com.au

BOOKS Affirm Press 03 8695 9623 affirmpress.com.au Gleebooks, Blackheath 02 4787 6340 gleebooks.com.au Megalong Books 02 4784 1302 megalongbooks.com.au

CAKES Carah’s Cakes & Pies 02 6331 1801 carahs.com.au JK Cake Designs 02 8850 2315 jkcakedesigns.com.au Nikki’s Cake Creations 0431 694 822 @nikkiscakesbluemountains

CATERING Crush Catering 0413 549 391 crushcatering.com.au Mountain Bites 1300 886 213 mountainbitescatering.com.au

Married by Allegra 0404 105 517 marriedbyallegra.com Rimas Milasas 02 9456 7799

EVENTS & STYLING Penny Lane Studio 0414 637 565 pennylanestudio.com.au The Golden Dandelion 0405 804 784 @thegoldendandelionevents Windwood Events 0414 011 964 windwoodevents.com

Ariat International ariat.com.au Asos asos.com Bardot Junior bardot.com Birdsnest birdsnest.com.au Forever New rorevernew.com.au Le Rose lerose.com.au Model Chic modelchic.com.au Siren sirenshoes.com.au Witchery witchery.com.au Windsor Smith windsorsmith.com.au Zulily zulily.com

FLOWERS Blue Mountains Floral Designs 0410 765 386 bluemountainsfloraldesigns.com Floral by Nature 0401 768 876 floralbynature.com.au Flower Empire 02 4739 0745 flowerempire.com.au Sydney Flower Market sydneymarkets.com.au

Dryridge Estate 0403 118 990 dryridge.com.au Lindsays Café 02 4751 9611 lindsayscafe.com.au Little Gracey Vintage Caravan Bar 0407 220 186 littlegracey.com.au

FURRY FRIENDS Alpaca Kisses 0425 353 283 alpacakisses.com

GARDENS Blue Mountains Botanic Garden 02 4567 3000 bluemountainsbotanicgarden.com.au Everglades Historic House & Gardens 02 4784 1938 facebook.com/EvergladesNationalTrust Mayfield Garden 02 6336 3131 mayfieldgarden.com.au The Campbell Rhododendron Gardens 02 4787 8965 rhodogarden.org.au Windyridge Garden 02 4756 2019 facebook.com/Windyridge-Garden

GIFTS Gifts-n-Things Leura 02 4784 3832 giftsnthingsleura.com.au Wild Botanik 0449 776 614 wildbotanik.com

GRAPHIC DESIGN & ILLUSTRATION

Tesselaar Flowers tesselaarflowers.net.au

Lisa Reidy 0404 099 452 lisareidy.com.au

The Flower Box 02 6331 9077 theflowerboxflorist.com.au

Melanie Vugich – Artist 0425 174 422 @melanievugich

The Little Flower Shop 02 4757 3339 thelittleflowershop.com.au The Wilde Posy Co. 0432 017 970 @Thewildeposyco Wild Blue Studio 0403 590 552 wildbluestudio.com.au 110

FOOD & WINE

GROOMING The Stray Whisker 02 4782 1975 thestraywhisker.com.au

HAIR & MAKEUP Airlie&Co 0450 048 116 airlieandco.com.au Danielle Hampton 0400 432 414 daniellehampton.com.au Euphoria Hair by Kellie Adler 0405 969 551 euphoriahair.com.au Make-Up by Marina Chiellini 0452 061 818 The Bridal Makeup Co. thebridalmakeupco.com Paul Bedggood and Paulie @ Tiwilla 0414 701 178 paulbedggood.com

JEWELLERY Adina Jozsef Fine Jewellery 02 9267 0122 adinajozsef.com.au Bill Hicks Jewellery Design 02 9231 0994 billhicksjewellery.com.au

MENSWEAR & ACCESSORIES Betts betts.com.au Canali Boutique 02 9261 3777 canali.com Connor Orange 02 6361 2880 connor.com.au Mister Mister 02 8040 2152 whoismrmister.com Oxford oxfordshop.com.au Shipton & Heneage shipton.com Tarocash 02 6331 5712 tarocash.com.au Teddy Sinclair 02 4784 3154 teddysinclair.com Williams the Shoemen williamsshoes.com.au

MUSIC Gwenda Davies Celtic Harp 02 6332 9454

Emporio Armani 02 9281 0686 crownjewellery.com.au

Lithgow Party Hire 02 4782 1023 Lithgowpartyhire.com

Evans and Son Jewellers 02 4626 7155 evansandsonjewellers.com.au

LZ Trio 1300 881 611 instinctmusic.com.au

St Germain Jewellers 02 9659 6600

Maple Creek Music 0406 610 680 maplecreekmusic.com.au

Gucci Australia 1300 442 878 gucci.com Lovisa lovisa.com Michael Hill michaelhill.com.au

The Vintage Stylus 0418 217 637 thevintagestylus.com The White Tree 0401 498 283 or 0404 094 061 thewhitetree.com.au

PLANT HIRE

STATIONERY

VENUES

Birches of Leura 02 4784 3146 birchesofleura.com

Canva canva.com

Abercrombie House 02 6331 4929 Abercrombiehouse.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Etsy etsy.com

Captured by Dee facebook.com/Captured-By-Dee

Minted minted.com

Chris Gray Photomedia 0425 353 283 chrisgrayphoto.com

Mount Vic and Me 0400 342 331 mountvicandme.com

Geoff Beatty 0402 292 770 stillphotography.com.au

TRANSPORT

Hello Sweetheart hellosweetheart.com.au Jeff Davies Photographer 0450 782 820 facebook.com/Jeffweddings

Lithgow Buslines 02 6352 3888 Oberon Hire Care & Mini Bus Services 0427 269 490

Collits Inn 02 6355 0287 collitsinn.com Crowne Plaza Hawkesbury Valley 02 4577 4222 crowneplaza.com/Windsor Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley 02 6350 1800 oneandonlywolganvalley.com Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains 02 4785 0094 fairmontresort.com.au Lilianfels Resort & Spa 02 4780 1200 lilianfels.com.au

Lauren Kennedy Photographer 0425 353 283 Laurenkennedyphotographer.com.au

Loxley on Bellbird Hill 02 4567 7711 loxleyonbellbirdhill.com.au

Matthew Harper Photography 0402 165 215 Mhphotography.com.au

Mayfield Garden 02 6336 3131 mayfieldgarden.com.au

No Ordinary Day Photography 0420 843 943 Noordinaryday.com.au

Norman Lindsay Gallery & Museum 02 4751 1067 normanlindsay.com.au

Pepper Image 0422 777 520 Pepperimage.com.au

Seclusions Blue Mountains 02 6355 6300 seclusions.com.au

Petal Photography 0404 366 076 petalphotography.com.au

Secret Creek CafĂŠ & Restaurant 02 6352 1133 secretcreekcafe.com

Sarah Moore 0400 111 904 delumierephotography.com.au

The Hydro Majestic Hotel 02 4782 6885 hydromajestic.com.au

Serays Photography 0402 536 474 seraysphotography.com

Waldara Farm 0475 981 571 waldara.com.au

Silversalt Photography 0410 619 977 silversalt.com.au White Wedding Photographers 1800 889 254 whiteweddingphotographers.com.au

Prouds the Jewellers prouds.com.au Regency Jewellers 02 6331 6962 regencyjewellers.com.au Swarovski swarovski.com Tiffany & Co tiffany.com.au 111

WEDDING

planner

WHETHER YOU’RE DREAMING OF A BIG WEDDING OR AN INTIMATE

CEREMONY, IT HELPS TO HAVE A PLAN. SIMPLY HIGHLIGHT EVERYTHING THAT APPLIES, AND REMEMBER TO BREATHE.

12 MONTHS TO GO • Set your date • Set your budget • Decide on the type of wedding you want: style, size, location, time of day, etc.

• Compile your guest list • Gather ideas for your ceremony and reception • If you’re going to need help, hire a wedding planner • Start researching ceremony and reception locations • Brides, start looking for your dream gown

10 MONTHS TO GO • Start thinking about your color palette and theme • Reserve your chosen ceremony and reception sites • Select the members of your bridal party • Reserve accommodation for out-of-town guests • Make appointments to try on wedding gowns/ tuxedos/suits • If wearing an heirloom gown, schedule alterations

8 MONTHS TO GO • Gather vendor referrals from friends and relatives • Interview celebrants/marriage officiants and confirm requirements for your marriage license • Order and mail ‘Save the Date’ cards • Start meeting with vendors – photographers, videographers, caterers, cake makers, florists, printers, bands and DJs • Finalise wedding theme and palette 112

6 MONTHS TO GO • Book baker and decide on your cake flavour and design • Book caterer • Book florist and decide on overall style for personal flowers, ceremony and reception décor • Book ceremony musicians and reception band or DJ • Book photographer and videographer • Finalise guest list and mailing addresses • Research invitation designs • Select your celebrant/officiant and discuss the ceremony service • Order your wedding dress and accessories • Book transportation for the bride, groom an bridal party • Reserve a hotel room for your wedding night

5 MONTHS TO GO • Select bridesmaids’ dresses and confirm that each bridesmaid has ordered her dress • Select outfits for flower girls and ring bearers • Provide bridal shower guest list to your Maid of Honour • Update registry lists for bridal shower • Research honeymoon destinations • Finalise invitation design and order wedding invitations • Check invitation proof • Reserve all rental items

4 MONTHS TO GO • Book honeymoon • Meet with hair stylists and makeup artists to discuss ideas • Create song playlists • Select first dance and other special dance songs • Schedule dance lessons • Order wedding rings • Reserve tuxedos for groom, dads and groomsmen • Draft wedding program information • Schedule rehearsal with celebrant/officiant and bridal party

3 MONTHS TO GO • Attend first dress fitting • Plan rehearsal dinner – book space and order invitations • Order or make wedding favours • Purchase guest book/vessel for guest notes • Research signature drink options • Book time off work for your honeymoon • Finalise flowers • Order wedding programs

2 MONTHS TO GO • Mail wedding invitations • Keep a record of RSVP cards you receive • Schedule a hair-and-makeup trial • Select gifts for attendants and parents • Have fun at your bridal shower • Write and mail bridal shower ‘Thank You’ notes • Start drafting your wedding vows • Schedule a tasting with your caterer and confirm reception menu

1 MONTH TO GO • Draft your seating chart • Review ceremony details with your celebrant/officiant • Distribute copies of selected readings and songs to your ceremony party • Apply for a marriage license • Send photo shot list to photographer and play list to band/DJ • Have fun at your bachelor/bachelorette parties • Write your wedding speech/toast • Prepare bride and groom emergency kits • Assemble guestroom gifts for out-of-town guests • Start breaking in your chosen shoes • Attend a hair and makeup trial • Schedule a haircut appointment for the groom • Find something old, new, borrowed and blue • Attend final dress fitting • Pick up your wedding rings • Send seating and place cards to calligrapher, or write/print them yourself

1 WEEK TO GO • Collect wedding dress and tuxedos • Give the caterer your final head count • Send reception location manager your final seating chart and drop off seating cards • Distribute day-of timeline and contact list to vendors and bridal party • Give ceremony and reception location managers a vendor contact sheet • Confirm beauty appointments • Confirm details with all vendors • Pack for honeymoon • Deliver guestroom gifts to hotel • Assign day-of responsibilities to attendants • Arrange for someone to send your wedding dress to a preservationist and return tuxedos to the rental store

DAY BEFORE • Attend rehearsal and rehearsal dinner • Drop all props (programs, candles etc) to ceremony site • Give attendants and parents ‘Thank You’ gifts • Have a manicure and pedicure

THE BIG DAY Enjoy every minute!

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“Our journey began when we met through mutual friends. We were so culturally different but remained good friends. As time went on, all the hardships in life brought us closer together.

We believe everything happens for a reason and everyone is destined to find their one true love.

Exactly five years from our anniversary date, we tied the knot. We chose Lincoln’s Rock in the Blue Mountains for our pre-wedding photos and asked Serays Photography to capture the breathtaking views. This place perfectly represents us – no matter how much life brings us down, together we will always be on top of the world.”

– Satidner & Jasper Paguyan

Photo: Serays Photography.

LAST WORD

113 Great Wester n Hwy Mount Victor ia www. moun tvican dme.c om

MO U N T V I C A N D M E

greeting cards • tea towels • jewellery hand-painted artworks • skincare • gifts and more

by Mount Vic and Me and other local designers

The perfect setting for your mountain wedding…

BLUE MOUNTAINS BOTANIC GARDEN MOUNT TOMAH

Only an hour from Penrith and 40 minutes from Katoomba is one of the most stunning locations in the mountains.

• Romantic cool climate garden • Five specially selected wedding sites • Ceremony, reception and/or photos • Jungle Lodge accommodation available on site For wedding information and to arrange a site visit, T: 02 4567 3000 or E: tomahweddings@rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au

bluemountainsbotanicgarden.com.au