AUTHENT I CALLY US

By BAYLEE GANTER

What was your highlight of the day?

E mma : I loved the ceremony. Looking into each other’s eyes, saying our vows in such a beautiful setting, it was very intimate.

M ayowa : Having our family and friends from around the world celebrate with us and seeing very distinct cultures come together.

How did he propose?

E: We were slightly (very) hungover, New Year’s Day 2021, on the beach at Burleigh Heads after spending NYE at Rick Shores. Totally unexpected on my part, but such a beautiful moment and very real with lots of laughs.

E: At the Les Bubbles launch. We clicked immediately over our shared experiences moving to Australia from another country and started dating pretty much straight after.

M: We met at the opening of Les Bubbles in September 2015 through mutual friends. It’s also where we ended up having our engagement party.

Describe Deux Belettes and why you chose it?

E: We both love Europe, but we met in Australia, so we knew we wanted to get married here. Deux Belettes is the perfect blend of the two and so different to your typical Australian wedding venue. We knew from the beginning that our wedding wouldn’t look like most – and the venue seemed like a good match.

M: We wanted to originally have an overseas wedding, however Deux Belettes had everything we wanted for a European flair right here in Australia.

Was it a special personal touch to wear your own suits?

M: Yes – mainly because I couldn’t find the look I was going for anywhere else, so I had to make the vision happen myself. It’s something I’ve always wanted to do for myself and the groomsmen.

What was your favourite song to dance to at the after party?

E: My step-dad requested the DJ to play Wonderwall by Oasis. Everyone was dancing and singing along with their arms around each other, it’s one of my favourite memories from the day.

M: I’d agree with this as well. It was a very special moment with everyone.

If you could give any advice to your prewedding self, what would it be?

E: Everyone says this but it’s seriously true – take in every single moment, be present, and absorb as much as you can. It will go so fast!

M: Having a spreadsheet for everything is actually more fun than it sounds!

Three words to describe the special day?

E: Culture, love, and joy.

M: Family, friends, and fun.

Wedding dresses by… Emma Beaumont Design

Suits by… Maade Brand

Bridesmaid dresses by… One Fell Swoop

Makeup by… Talia Ven Wedding planner… Byron Bay Luxury Weddings

Venue… Deux Belettes

Cake by… Just Add Flower

Catering by… Three Blue Ducks

Flowers by… The French Petal Stationary… Signed by Shaun Furniture hire… Frank and Joy by Maria Birch

Marquee… Events Party Hire

Music by… Honey and Stone Music Photographer… Florido Weddings

with Jano Kotzas

Whether it’s a milestone or an excuse to bring your favourite people together, birthday celebrations are even better when styled. Themed birthdays, in particular, are growing in popularity. Whether you’re planning a disco-themed rodeo, an eclectic ABBA dance party, a 007 murder mystery, or a taco-filled Mexican fiesta, the styling of your event will make all the difference. Some fun props could include disco balls, a life-sized cactus, a James Bond silhouette, or even a giant popcorn box.

From the large props to the smaller details, the theming of your event should be carried throughout the venue. With hanging décor transforming the space, add lights for a twinkling photo backdrop and a disposable camera to capture the fun.

So, what are you waiting for? Life’s too short to not spend it dressed up! With over 25 years’ experience on the topic, leave it to the experts at The Prop House to design the birthday celebration of your dreams.

THE PROP HOUSE 1135 STANLEY ST E, COORPAROO, P 3555 8660 THEPROPHOUSE.COM.AU

with Dr John

Barletta

The most asked question I’ve had in 40 years of teaching, counselling, and consulting is ‘what is the secret to success?’. I could answer this in a multitude of ways. Here are some traits that have led many to their definition of success.

Most people experience anxiety and insecurity about themselves, others, the world, the past, and the future. Those thoughts don’t need to be eliminated, but it is key to develop strategies to avoid overfocusing and following them down a rabbit hole. Remember, what you focus on, you amplify.

Back yourself! This is not about annoying cockiness, but a real confidence that comes from competence.

Dedicate yourself to learning some skills, knowing some stuff, and developing expertise in several domains.

The ability to resist temptation is critical, especially the desire to quit instead of persevering with difficult tasks, and delay gratification for as long as possible.

DR JOHN BARLETTA, CORPORATE PSYCHOLOGIST P 0418 831 946 JOHNBARLETTA.COM

Whether you’re a first-time home buyer or a seasoned seller, there are a few key things to keep in mind as you navigate the market in 2023.

For buyers, one of the most important things to consider is your budget. It’s essential to have a clear understanding of what you can realistically afford. This may mean setting a firm budget before you start looking at properties or working with a real estate agent who can help you identify homes within your price range.

For sellers, the key to success in 2023 will be staying competitive in your market. It’s important to take steps to make your property stand out from the crowd. This may mean investing in some upgrades or renovations to improve the overall look and feel of your home or working with a skilled real estate agent.

By keeping an eye on market trends, staying in touch with real estate professionals, and remaining open to new opportunities, you can position yourself for success in this dynamic and ever-changing market.

There’s no better way to party in style than heading on a holiday overseas. Whether it’s a birthday or an exciting milestone, celebration travel is the perfect excuse to bring family, friends, and small groups together.

Looking for something extra special such as a private villa with a plunge pool, a romantic beachside picnic, or an intimate dinner for two? Or perhaps you’re craving an all-inclusive cruising experience, an authentic foodie adventure, or a luxe retreat. Whether you’re travelling to Tahiti in the Pacific Ocean or Africa, when it comes to finding a destination to celebrate in, the options are endless. And if you’re planning a larger celebration, like a wedding, I’d recommend heading to dreamy Italy.

If you have a special occasion coming up and want to party in pampered holiday style, then let me make it easy and help you plan, book, and create those treasured lifelong memories with my complete concierge travel service!