Bridal Bliss: June 27

bridalbliss A special guide to your perfect day - presented by The Western Weekender

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BE DIFFERENT Who says you need to have a wedding cake, or even a first dance? We’ve got some great ideas to help give your special day a unique touch, that your guests will remember for many years to come! Why not give them some thought?

Weddings are very often about tradition, but they don’t have to be that way.

In fact, you can stick with certain traditions but throw some unique ideas in to give your big day a perfect mix.

Remember, you want your wedding day to be about you – so don’t compromise just because tradition dictates a particular thing has to be done.

Here’s four ways you can make your wedding unique: DON’T CUT THE CAKE: Cutting the cake is such a big part of a wedding but often, it’s an expensive exercise and not everyone likes cake! Consider having another option, like cupcakes or even donuts. A lolly bar will suffice as well – the cake cutting is more about the symbol of that moment, and not so much about the cake. Will people really notice if you skip the cake cutting but have other awesome dessert options? We reckon that classic cake cutting photo is so 1980s and 1990s. Why not consider something different?

PHOTO BOOTHS: If you can’t afford to pay your photographer to stay for the whole night, then something that encourages guests to take photos themselves is a great idea.

Perhaps a few Polaroid cameras, or a photo booth. The latter can be hired from a range of places and isn’t overly expensive. e. You can also bring your own props along. g. For example, if you’re an NRL fan or basketball etball supporter, you might have a few team e the jerseys in there just to personalise experience. When planning your wedding, dding, you may think that nobody will use a photo booth, but you’ll be surprised how quickly uickly it attracts your friends and family, especially ecially when they’ve had a couple of drinks!

DUMP THE ARCH: After a big night of fun and dancing, ng, it’s sometimes not the most ideal way to say goodbye. Guys in sweaty, smelly suits ts and girls struggling in high heels, all trying ing to create an arch that looks like it’s about to fall over. Why not find another way to o say goodbye?

SPECIAL CARS? GRAB AN UBER INSTEAD EAD So much money often goes in to wedding dding cars, and most of the time, your guests never even see them. If you’re not all that fussed ussed about cars, don’t even bother going over er the top. Just find somebody who is willing ing to drive you, or grab a hire car. And after the wedding, why not just grab an Uber to o your hotel for the night?

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we create. you celebrate.

custom designed wedding styling | floristry | stationery | wildbluestudio.com.au bridalbliss | June 201 7

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SPONSORED CONTENT

MAKE A STATEMENT Whether it’s driving to the venue itself, arriving in front of your friends and family or simply a great photo opportunity, an amazing car can play a big part in your wedding day. But with transportation on the day so important, how do you know who to trust? Thankfully, the team at Blue Mountains Vintage Cadillacs have been helping brides and grooms on their wedding day for many years, providing a stress-free and reliable experience.

Upgrade your wedding from enjoyable to truly unforgettable by arriving in the glamorous silver-screen style of old Hollywood in a fleet of fully restored vintage Cadillac LaSalle cars.

Operating throughout the Blue Mountains and Nepean areas, Blue Mountains Vintage Cadillacs can transport a wedding party of up to 12 people in its three head-turning art deco beauties (extra vehicles can be sourced if required).

Dressed in formal attire, your dedicated driver will collect you from and return you to any location in the Blue Mountains or Nepean area and stay with you throughout the day.

Make a grand entrance at your nuptials in the exquisite Ava, a dark blue 1928 fivepassenger Coupe, Ella the 1929 convertible Landau Cabriolet or Flora, a cherry red coloured 1929 four-passenger Phaeton.

Alternatively, one of the cars can make a short special guest appearance for that extra special photo opportunity.

Owner Donald Millar said each car was a timeless rare beauty.

“Old cars can have a beauty because they’re old, but these cars have a beauty inherent in themselves,” he said.

“To have one at a wedding creates a very special day indeed, not to mention unbelievable photos.”

Here’s our top wedding tips to ensure a smooth ride for the whole bridal party: THE PICK-UP How long does it take for your friends to pile into the car for an evening out?

Add 30 minutes to that to allow for the beaming bride, her dress, bridesmaids and bouquets, Father of the Bride, the page boy and flower girl to get into the vehicle.

Add an extra 10 minutes for photography too.

HAIR Open cars guarantee an unforgettable entrance.

However, keep the car in mind when considering your hairstyle.

Many brides have their hairdresser give their do a tidy-up on arrival at the venue before the ceremony.

TIMING Allow time to pack the bridal party into the cars, photography stops along the route, traffic flow, time of day and day of the week, as well as the type of vehicle you will be travelling in (eg: vintage cars are slower and limousines are not as flexible as modern vehicles).

Talk to the team about your proposed route so they can help determine appropriate (and realistic) timeframes.

PHOTOS Manage photography time by reducing

the number of photo venues to a couple of truly jaw-dropping locations and keep to strict time limits.

For autumn and winter weddings it is essential to consider sunset time when planning your photo opportunities.

Darkness falls quickly in the mountains at this time of year and anticipating this can avoid disappointment.

If you are looking for a classic photo with the sun setting in the background, again considering the season is important.

In spring and summer, the days get longer

and sunset is later. This might impact the timing of the reception. Wait time for guests is also important to consider.

Ask the team to liaise with your photographer on your behalf (Blue Mountains Vintage Cadillacs has a register of travel times between various venues and popular photography locations).

Just head over to w w w. bluemountainsvintagecadillacs.com.au, email info@bluemountainslimo.com.au or phone Donald on 0455 352 976 for more information and bookings. bridalbliss | June 201 7

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We offer packages starting from as little as $5,000 which includes: • 6 hour room hire • Buffet Menu for up to 100 guests • Dedicated Bar Person for duration of reception • Linen table cloths (choice of white or black) • Chair covers and sashes (fitted) • Table Runners • Wedding table backdrop curtain & fairy lights • Wedding table skirt • Personalised table plan • Audio visual screen for photo slideshow We will work with you to build an event to suit your own ideas and budget.

“Here at the Henry, the word ‘wedding’ doesn’t automatically equal extra dollars.”

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144 Henry Lawson Ave, WERRINGTON COUNTY | 9623 2119 functions@henrysportsclub.com.au | www.hlclub.com.au

Your journey begins here Nestled in the heart of the Hawkesbury Valley only 45 minutes from the Sydney CBD, The Sebel Hawkesbury Resort and Spa provides a selection of four classically romantic Reception rooms, Lakeside and Woods Ceremony settings and a charming onsite Chapel.

61 Hawkesbury Valley Way, Windsor NSW 2756 Email: H8799-SB3@accor.com www.facebook.com/TheSebelHawkesburyValley Phone: (02) 4577 4222

www.sebelhawkesbury.com.au 6

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LAKESIDE IS THE PERFECT LOCATION Are you still searching for the perfect location for your upcoming wedding? If so, you obviously haven’t checked out Lakeside Restaurant yet. Visit Vince and his team today to find out about the incredible wedding packages on offer.

With floor to ceiling glass and sweeping views of Penrith Lakes and the lower Blue Mountains, the awarded Lakeside Restaurant at the Sydney International Regatta Centre is a stunning destination for your upcoming wedding and reception.

Lakeside can accommodate a large number of guests for cocktail style or banquet style receptions.

With three wedding packages available, the experienced team at Lakeside is confident they have the best package to suit your budget and needs. Alternatively, they can tailor a package to suit your particular requirements.

Lakeside provides the ultimate dining experience for its guests, who are sure to enjoy the great food and great wines while taking in the unique, pristine surroundings.

At Lakeside, it is always about taste.

Freshly made dishes and delicious food are

their calling card. Owner Vince Capolupo said the private location is one of Lakeside’s most appealing attractions for weddings.

“We are located on top of the grandstand where guests can marvel in beautiful views of the surrounding lakes and Blue Mountains,” he said.

“Our experienced team will take the stress out of your wedding day, so you are free to enjoy all it has to offer with your loved ones.”

Lakeside Restaurant also boasts ample parking, high-level security, both indoor and outdoor areas, and are very flexible when catering to your needs.

It’s located at the Sydney International Regatta Centre, Gate A, Old Castlereagh Road, Penrith.

For more information on the various wedding packages available and what they include, visit www.lakesiderestaurant.com. au or call 4729 3222.

LAKESIDE RESTAURANT

PENRITH’S ONLY

Waterfront Wedding VENUE

ON AN ISLAND

The Lakeside restaurant can accommodate for your function with cocktail or banquet style menus. We are confident that we can tailor a wedding package to suit your needs.

Excellent dining experience | Great place for families and friends | Fine wine list Available for special functions International Regatta Centre Gate A, Old Castlereagh Rd, Penrith Lakes www.lakesiderestaurant.com.au | 4729 3222 WW27322

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WILD ABOUT WEDDINGS If not handled correctly, wedding styling can quickly get out of control. Before you know it, what should be a magical day in your life has suddenly become a stressful experience with the wrong kind of tears. Thankfully, there’s a truly local solution available to ensure a smoother ride. Wild Blue Studio can ensure you’re enjoying your day without any issues, while creating a beautiful wedding that will be the envy of all your guests!

The best celebrations are created from that special spark or idea that defines you.

Wild Blue Studio co-owners Maddy and Jacqui understand this, striving to build events that are not only magical, but unique to you.

Their business began after a personal experience two years ago when Jacqui attempted her own DIY wedding.

“In the lead up to her ceremony, Jacqui was by herself drinking Moet, because the other bridesmaids and I were running around decorating the venue,” Maddy said.

And so, the rare one stop event studio in the Blue Mountains and Penrith region for stationary, flowers and styling was born.

“We don’t think brides should have to suffer the same fate, and want them to have

the time to enjoy the lead up to their wedding with their loved ones,” Jacqui said.

Through their team of stylists, florists, artists, set builders, graphic designers, a mechanic and a carpenter, they have confidence they can make your dream day come true.

“We’re constantly looking for inspiration in everything around us,” Maddy said.

“We turn everyday things upside down and back to front to find that something that takes your breath away.

“We thrive on the entire process of creating, styling, designing, planning, building. We believe that life is about those special moments you remember.”

Rather than using a list of vendors, couples can come to Wild Blue Studio with ideas,

and watch as they put together a look that reflects them.

“We take inspiration from your event ideas, add a little Wild Blue spice, and deliver a personalised space and experience for you and your guests to remember for years to come,” Jacqui said.

“Whether your preference is for the classics, or something out of the ordinary, we will create a stunning and unique event for you from stationary to flowers – that are consistent the whole way through.”

If you’re ready to plan your unique wedding or event, visit their website wildbluestudio.com.au or contact the girls on 0403 590 552 for an obligation free catch up where the coffee is on them! You won’t regret it.

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Unique • Historic • Spacious Escarpment location, set in an acre of 100-year-old garden Perfect wedding/commitment ceremony accommodation AND a great location for romantic photos of your special day.

Accommodates to 8 people, fully self-contained former writer’s retreat, with private access to Prince Henry Cliff Walk.

cloudlands.com.au | 0423 109 270 8

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My pledge is only one ceremony on one day giving you my full attention Philip Timbrell Commonwealth Registered Marriage Celebrant

Professional yet informal For a happy and fun filled ceremony Mobile: 0418 65 45 25 Email:phil@happydaycelebrant.com.au www.happydaycelebrant.com.au

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WEDDING CHECKLIST So the question has been popped, the Instagram announcement has been done and it’s time to start planning! But where do you begin? The Western Weekender’s team has put together a must-have checklist to ensure everything gets done on time and nothing gets missed. If you’re getting married in the next couple of years, put this list on the fridge and make sure everything gets ticked off before your stress-free special day. When you’ve got a list, nothing can go wrong!

SIXTEEN TO NINE MONTHS BEFORE: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

Start a wedding folder or binder.

Work out your budget.

Pick your wedding party.

Start the guest list.

Hire a planner, if desired.

Reserve your date and venues.

Book your celebrant.

Research photographers, bands, florists, and caterers.

9. Throw an engagement party, if you wish.

7. Choose your music.

THREE MONTHS BEFORE: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Finalise the menu and flowers.

Order guest gifts, if desired.

Make a list of the people giving toasts.

Finalise the readings.

Finalise the order of the ceremony and the reception.

6. Print menu cards, if you like, as well as programs.

7. Purchase the rings.

8. Send your event schedule to the vendors.

EIGHT MONTHS BEFORE: 1. Hire the photographer and the videographer.

2. Book the entertainment.

3. Meet caterers.

4. Purchase a dress.

5. Reserve a block of hotel rooms for out-of-town guests.

6. Start your bridal gift register.

7. Launch a wedding website.

SEVEN TO SIX MONTHS BEFORE: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

Select and purchase invitations.

Start planning a honeymoon.

Shop for bridesmaids’ dresses.

Meet with the celebrant.

Send save-the-date cards.

Book a florist.

Arrange transportation.

Start composing a run sheet for the day.

FIVE TO FOUR MONTHS BEFORE:

TWO MONTHS BEFORE: 1. Touch base again with all the vendors.

2. Meet with the photographer.

3. Review the playlist with the band or DJ. 4. Send out the invitations.

5. Submit a newspaper wedding announcement (in the Weekender of course).

6. Enjoy a Hen’s party

6. Confirm times for hair and makeup and all vendors.

7. Email and print directions for drivers of transport vehicles.

8. Assign seating.

9. Purchase bridesmaids’ gifts.

10. Write vows, if necessary.

11. Get your hair cut and coloured, if desired.

WEEK OF THE WEDDING: 1. Reconfirm arrival times with vendors.

2. Delegate small wedding-day tasks.

3. Send a timeline to the bridal party.

4. Pick up your dress.

5. Check in one last time with the photographer.

6. Organise any

payments that need to be made for vendors 7. Book a spa treatment.

8. Send the final guest list to the caterer and all venues hosting your wedding-related events.

9. Break in your shoes.

10. Assemble and distribute the welcome baskets.

11. Pack for your honeymoon.

DAY OF THE WEDDING: 1. Take it all in, remember that this is supposed to be the best day of your life. Make sure you enjoy it.

2. Don’t stress if little things go wrong.

Take it in your stride.

3. Read over your speech one final time so you’re comfortable with it.

4. Enjoy a champagne!

ONE MONTH BEFORE: 1. Enter RSVPs into your guest-list database.

2. Get your marriage licence.

3. Mail the rehearsal-dinner invitations.

4. Visit the dressmaker for (with luck!) your last dress fitting.

5. Send out as many final payments as you can.

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1. Book the rehearsal and rehearsaldinner venues.

2. Check on the wedding invitations.

3. Select and order the cake.

4. Send your guest list to the host of your shower.

5. Purchase wedding shoes and start dress fittings.

6. Schedule hair and makeup artists.

MOBILE MAKEUP ARTIST Skincare Consultant Hens/Birthday Retreats Makeup workshops Kylie Roy PH: 0414 865 255 allofyou.australia@gmail.com WW27366

www.kylieroy.arbonne.com www.facebook.com/allofyou1

BRIDES & BRIDESMAIDS Want to look your best for that special day??

HYPOXI combines technology with low impact exercise and healthy nutrition to optimise your fat burning. It’s scientifically proven to be up to 3x more effective at targeted fat burning than traditional exercise, especially in the stubborn areas of fat around the stomach, hips, bottom and thighs.

3 x 30 min sessions per week in the months leading up to the big day and HYPOXI will help you look and feel your best!

For more info HYPOXI.COM.AU – Penrith Studio at Rejuven8 Body. Ring for your free trial 4732 4006.

HYPOXI STUDIO PENRITH at Rejuven8 Body 140 Henry St, Penrith NSW 2750 | info@rejuven8body.com.au | rejuven8body.com.au | PH: 4732 4006

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MEMORIES YOU’LL HAVE FOREVER Apart from marrying the person of your dreams, the photographs are such an important part of your wedding day. Choosing a photographer can be a tough task, but Lauren Elyse Photography takes the stress out of the big decision!

Lauren Spedding, from Lauren Elyse Photography, is a Penrith-based photographer specialising in wedding, newborn and family photography.

“My job is about love, surrounded by love and capturing love,” Lauren said.

“The raw emotion, your story, your love, your jokes, your moments and your memories is why I became a photographer.”

Lauren, a loving wife and mother of three beautiful children, takes the time to get to know you and your partner as she helps plan the memories of your big day.

“I care about your story as much as you do. I pay attention to the little things. I notice if your lippy needs touching up and meeting your parents is the greatest joy,” Lauren said.

“Natural, raw emotion is what I love to bring out and capture for you to hold onto forever.”

Lauren Elyse Photography have a range

of wedding photography packages to suit your budget and needs. All packages include a complimentary pre-wedding session.

“Your wedding is your day where you make a commitment to the love of your life.

I live to tell your story through beautiful imagery,” Lauren said.

“Weddings are my specialty. My style of wedding photography is lifestyle candid and minimal posing, discovering that natural beautiful connection in my clients.”

When photographing, Lauren focuses on the raw moments and emotion, and most of her wedding packages come with a second photographer, which allows her to achieve coverage from all angles.

“I would love to meet you over coffee and cake,” Lauren said.

Visit laurenelysephotography.com.au or check out her page on Facebook.

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GET IT RIGHT Most of us struggle when it comes to public speaking, but with a few handy hints (and maybe a couple of drinks) you can make sure your wedding night speech goes off without a hitch, and becomes a memorable moment!

The speeches are a big part of your wedding reception, but if you’re not good at public speaking, where do you begin?

The key is good planning. Start in advance, and write down all the things you love about your partner.

Keep that list handy and use it as you start to put together the speech.

You can look at speech examples online,

but don’t steal content – just use it as inspiration and guidance.

You want to start your speech with a few thank-yous, then move on to a couple of funny moments to ensure laughs are had by everyone.

Then, fi nish off on a serious note. Tell everyone why you love your partner, and what the big day means to you.

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Tracy’s Essential Looks • 25 years experience • We use Napoleon and Mac makeup • Package deals • Spray tanning • Facials • All Hair Services • Massages to decrease stress before the big day • Mobile service available

RELAX, BE PAMPERED, ENJOY!

Want to look and feel amazing on your wedding day?

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or call the salon on 4736 6881 1 Castle Road, Orchard Hills www.tracysessentiallooks.com.au

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Text Tracy on 0400

We want to ensure your wedding day is awesome!

Megan Dunn Photography is all about love, fun & celebration. We will capture all the excitement of your day without having to force smiles or fake poses. Your wedding day should be all about you and we want you to look back at the fun you had through beautifully created images that you can treasure for a lifetime. ‘‘I can’t even put into words how amazing you were on our wedding day. I have just had a look through the images and I feel like I have just relived the day again… WOWWW!!! Your eye for detail and creative flare! The photos are just amazing!!!! I cannot thank you enough and cannot recommend you more highly to anyone.’’

– CHARLIE & EVELYN DAOUD - DOLTONE HOUSE

Phone: 0433 241 737 Email: info@megandunnphotography.com Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/megandunnphoto

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WEDDINGS AT WISEMANS It’s far enough to get away, but close enough to feel like home! The perfect wedding venue may be closer than you think, with the Retreat at Wisemans providing incredible options for your very special day.

Imagine your wedding at a venue that embraces the beauty of the Hawkesbury region, and is guaranteed to host only one wedding per day.

At the Retreat at Wisemans you get just that, with stunning options for you to choose from to create the perfect day you dream of.

Starting with your ceremony in either the Gazebo nestled inside their beautifully manicured gardens or a pop-up ceremony at Riverside or Dockside.

These locations create perfect images for breathtaking sunset photos on the banks of the Hawkesbury River.

Once your ceremony is complete, you can choose from a number of pre-reception options, starting with canapes by the river, poolside or on our terrace overlooking one of our many wedding gardens.

Then, move to an intimate reception in the Riverbend Restaurant that seats up to 110 guests, or for a grand celebration enjoy the evening in a beautiful silk lined marquee by the sparkling Hawkesbury River which seats up to 150 guests.

If you feel that the party isn’t over, your guests can continue the celebrations by retiring to the games room for up to three more hours.

With 54 comfortable rooms available for guests to enjoy a fabulous day with the bride and groom, no one has to worry about the drive home afterwards.

All rooms include an ensuite bathroom, air conditioning, TV and free Wi-Fi. The dedicated Wedding Team provide personalised service where the emphasis is on creating a unique and flexible setting for each couple to make full use of this versatile venue on what is the most important day of their lives.

They will ensure every element of your special day is executed perfectly with precision with wedding packages that are designed to allow couples to enjoy their memorable day without stress.

So if you’re looking for that perfect venue close to home, call the team today on 4566 4422.

Far enough to get away… Close enough to feel at home!

The Ceremony

Marry on the banks of the Hawkesbury River in our Wedding Gazebo or beautifully landscaped gardens and enjoy the delightful photographic opportunities.

The Reception

Choose from our restaurant or a marquee in the gardens to celebrate the occasion with up to 150 family and friends.

Accommodation

With 54 well appointed accommodation rooms guests can share your special day without the need to drive home.

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5564 Old Northern Road, Wisemans Ferry, NSW • P: (02) 45 66 44 22

Visit www.wisemans.com.au to download our Wedding Brochure! bridalbliss | June 201 7

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HUGE SALE until the end of financial year!

Over 25 years Experience

Shop 44 Nepean Village, Penrith

Ph:

4732 2266 WW28504