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.

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 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 Illustration: Melanie Vugich.

20 28

CONTENTS

38 48

58 66

ON THE COVER

Bridal fashion imitates art at Norman Lindsay Gallery. Photo: Jeff Davies Photography 76

TRUE LOVE

20 Veronika and James Fairy tale romance at a Bathurst landmark 28 Daniel and Darren High-fashion celebration for a dashing duo 38 Ellie and Hayden Country vows and vibes amidst the rolling hills of Rydal 48 Renée and Felicity Two beautiful brides riding high on love 58 Meredith and Sam Core values unite a caring couple 66 Ellie and Jared Hawkesbury haven proves perfect for these young lovers 76 Ingrid and Iain Rustic romance at Collits Inn

PROFILES

82 Vision splendid Paper artist James Gordon is a cut above the rest 88 Bringing the joy Katoomba hair-and-makeup artist Paul Bedggood opens his pamper palace 92 Will you marry me? Meet four of the region’s best celebrants

HOMEGROWN

16 We heart A few of our favourite things 18 Beauty Get that natural glow 89 High Five Our top five romantic gardens

REGULARS

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

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