The love story
Ellouis and Matt were high school classmates who remained unaware of each other’s existence. Surprisingly, fate intertwined their paths years later when neither sought love. Their connection was immediate and intense, likened to a magnetic force. Their inaugural date transpired on the beach, featuring fruit and rum. Rolling in the sand, they shared laughter for hours. Looking back, they credit the origin of their relationship for its strength and the promise of their future. They embraced authenticity, free from pretense or falsehoods, revealing their true identities, which ultimately led to their deep connection.
The first date
Ellouis and Matt were high school classmates who remained unaware of each other’s existence. Surprisingly, fate intertwined their paths years later when neither sought love. Their connection was immediate and intense, likened to a magnetic force. Their inaugural date transpired on the beach, featuring fruit and rum. Rolling in the sand, they shared laughter for hours. Looking back, they credit the origin of their relationship for its strength and the promise of their future. They embraced authenticity, free from pretense or falsehoods, revealing their true identities, which ultimately led to their deep connection.
The engagement
During their trip in the Philippines, Ellouise and Matt visited Matt’s hometown region, Bataan, where they reunited with family at the beach resort Anvaya. As the sun dipped below the horizon, Matt suggested a walk along the shore. Unbeknownst to Ellouise, who was preoccupied capturing photos of palm trees, Matt unexpectedly called her name, prompting her to spin around. To her surprise, Matt was down on one knee in the middle of the beach, presenting a heartfelt proposal surrounded by love and using his mother’s cherished ring. Overwhelmed with shock and joy, Ellouise excitedly shared the news with strangers nearby, who had witnessed the entire romantic moment.
One piece of advice
It really does go by in a flash. You can’t have too many photos. Say yes to disposable cameras. It’s okay if things go wrong; it will still be the best day ever because you will be surrounded by everyone you love, making it the greatest celebration. Make it as personal as possible; it’s easy to be swayed by things that are flashy and meaningless. Let your florist have full creative freedom; just give them colours. Have a colour palette for guests. And definitely book Strattan Photography.
The wedding outfits
Ellouise shared the instant connection to her wedding gown expressing, “The wedding gown I ultimately chose was not what I originally envisioned. While living in Perth, my mum visited for the weekend, and together we decided to go and look for a gown. To my surprise, I stumbled upon a gown that resonated deeply with me. The moment I tried it on, an uncontrollable smile came to me and I knew because of how this gown made me feel – and I just knew that this was the one. Before even revealing the dress to my mum for her opinion, I knew it was perfect.” As for Matt, he opted for a bow tie that exuded a cool vibe, eventually discovering one with a Sacred Heart emblem representing passion, love, sacrifice, and devotion—qualities they aimed to embody in their commitment to each other. Their attire reflected their individual styles, with the couple encouraging guests to don an earthy Aussie desert colour palette inspired by their memorable journey across the Nullarbor from Melbourne to Perth.
The venues
We chose our wedding venues because both are incredibly special to us. They perfectly matched our vision and offered us ample creative control to bring that vision to life. Narkoojee Winery, being close by and intimate, was adorned with beautiful gum trees and lush greenery, which we loved. Good Land Brewery Co, on the other hand, is a venue that often goes unnoticed, but it was just what we needed. The spacious marquee fit perfectly outside, and Good Land’s flexibility allowed us to arrange everything just as we wanted. We spent the night before setting everything up, and we’re immensely grateful to Jimmy and Layla for their help and support.
Favourite memories
Ellouis – how can I pick one?! When I think of my wedding day all the moments flash at once. The day is one big, beautiful moment. I loved that everywhere I turned was someone I loved. But maybe when the DJ let me take over the decks.
Matthew – Seeing Ellouis walk down the whole isle towards me, and how beautiful she looked and the anticipation of what we were about to do. And seeing everyone I love and their reaction.
Favourite vendors
This is the hardest to answer. Every vendor, we have a personal connection to. And if we didn’t before we certainly do now.
Vendors
Accessories The Pretty Potato I Bars Good Land Brewery Co I Bridal Gown & Veil Designer Martina Liana Bridal Designs I Bridesmaid Dresses Billy J Boutique I Catering Canapes Narkoojee Winery I Celebrant Grahame Macreadie I Ceremony Venue Narkoojee Winery I Entertainment / Music DJ Tynon Gatt I Florist The Willow Branch I Food Truck Duarts Homestead I Grooms Attire Peter Jackson, RM Williams, Etsy I Hair Stylist Hayley Crane I Hire Services Gippsland Barrels I Jewellery Gregory Jewellers, Michael Hill & Angus & Coote I Makeup Artist C2 Makeup I Marquee Hire Gippsland Special Events & Party Hire I Nails Daisy Nails I Photographer Strattan Photography I Reception Venue Good Land Brewery Co I Robes, Sleepwear & Lingerie Myer I Tan Bronzed Bodies & Brows
Strattan Photography
Annmaree Strattan is a Gippsland wedding photographer renowned for her unique ability to capture the authentic emotions and intricate details of a couple’s most cherished day. With over a decade of experience in the industry, Annmaree has developed a distinctive style that blends photojournalism with fine art photography, resulting in images that are both timeless and evocative.