Editor’s letter

LONG love LIVE

In a year when Earth seemed to shift on its axis, we decided to produce a magazine that celebrates the one thing the world needs a whole lot more of – love. While Australia waits for leaders to lead by passing long-overdue legislation on marriage equality and giving all couples the same rights, we are committed to highlighting the fact that love is love.

We are equally committed to showcasing our amazing corner of the country. The four of us grew up in other parts of New South Wales but were drawn to the allencompassing beauty of the Blue Mountains. We’ve found ‘home’, in much the same way our covergirls Kylie and Tiphanee describe since they made the great leap (see their True Love story on page 18).

Along with the magnificence that surrounds us, what we particularly love about life in the mountains is the abundance of local talent and community spirit. In the process of putting our first issue together, we have been amazed by the generosity of those willing to share their stories and their creativity. Our sincere thanks goes to everyone who has contributed to bringing Blue Mountains Love to life.

Our magazine is for all lovers, and we want people from far and wide to know they are very welcome to come and celebrate their love in the Blue Mountains.

Enjoy!

52 28

CONTENTS

42 70

36 74

ON THE COVER

Kylie Watson (left) and Tiphanee Athans. Photo: Jennifer Leahy, Silversalt Photography. Location: Katoomba. Story: Page 18.

TRUE LOVE

18 Kylie and Tiphanee Holding out for marriage equality 28 Kate and Phil The romance of a vintage-rustic barn wedding 36 Javane and Tyson Secret wedding in Wentworth Falls 42 Liz and Richard Going steampunk in a church hall 94 62

PROFILES

74 The Mercurial Ms Moss Tara Moss on marriage, mountain life and corsets 80 A Stitch in Time Historical fashion plus making your own wedding gown 82 Love Shack WedShed’s founders on choosing the right venue

HOMEGROWN

14 Beauty Mountains-made products plus natural skincare tips 47 Top Five Places to pop the question 48 Hair & Makeup Local stylists show their flair for hair 52 Flowers Beautiful cool-climate bouquets 58 Groomed Upcycled menswear plus wet-shaving products 66 Jewellery Estate pieces from Blue Mountains antique experts 70 Cakes Deliciously different wedding cakes made with love

REGULARS

6 Editor’s letter Welcome to our first issue 10 Map Find your way around the region 12 What’s On Diary of local events 86 Inspiration Autumnal wedding style 90 Escape Blue Mountains getaways for girls 94 DIY Crafting an heirloom brooch bouquet 96 Village People Discover Blackheath’s shops and attractions 98 Bonbonierre Sweet wedding favours 112 Wedding Planner Expertly plan your big day 114 Farewell Rodney Croome on marriage equality

WIN, SHOP & SAVE THE DATE

102 Competition Win a romantic Leura escape 103 The Love Affair Save the date for our wedding market 104 All in the Detail A directory of fabulous local suppliers 109 Next Issue Spring/summer weddings 110 Stockists