Sally & Michael
The Love Story
We met nine years ago one evening around Christmas, out the front of a local café. A mutual friend introduced us. One year later to the day, we started officially going out.
The Proposal
We became engaged while on holiday in Hawaii in September last year. Michael arranged a massage for us at the Sheraton Waikiki where we were staying and popped the question while we were relaxing in our robes before the massage. It was very hard to relax during that massage, due to all the shock and excitement!
The Venue
We chose the Tinamba Hotel for our ceremony and reception, as it’s a cosy country hotel with exceptional food and wine. We always have a great time there and thought it would be the perfect venue for our winter wedding due to its dark wood features, and stylish atmosphere. We opted for a very casual midday ceremony with a cocktail reception to follow. The menu included freshly shucked Barilla Bay oysters, sunflower seed macarons with chicken liver pate, profiterole with goat cheese mousse and salted caramel, chermoula chicken sliders and many other delicious morsels.
The Dress
Shopping for my wedding dress was exciting but also daunting. I think you go in with an idea of what you like, but it’s really important to have an open mind, and try on a few styles. Wedding dresses look so different on! DBH made my experience fun and enjoyable. Frankie was kind and patient and easy to trust when it came to styles that would suit me the most and made time to understand what look I was trying to achieve. I always felt welcome and special every visit! They have a stunning range of dresses, with beautiful and interesting designs, and many styles that I had not seen elsewhere.
The Wedding
My favourite moment from the wedding was seeing Michael waiting for me at the altar, which was a huge painting in the hotel bistro. I also loved tying our ‘unbreakable’ fisherman’s knot during our ceremony in place of vows. Michael is a keen fisherman and boat enthusiast so we thought this was a good way to symbolize our love. Another great moment was spending time with our bridal party in the private bar after the ceremony with food and drinks while having some casual photos.
Any Advice?
My advice for future brides is to design the type of wedding that you would like to attend as a guest! Do it simple and do it well by first prioritizing where you want to spend the money. And importantly on the day – just take moments to breath and take it all in, relax and have fun!
The Vendors
Photographer: Sherise Fleming Photography Ceremony: Evie Wilson – Peace, Love and Ceremonies Venue: Tinamba Hotel, Tinamba VIC Hair & Make Up: Milco Hair & Make Up Flowers: Hey Blossom Cake: Miss Ladybird Cakes Dress: Designer Bridal House