The meeting
Josie and Chris met through mutual friends in February 2016. On our first date, we went out for dinner. I was so nervous that I dropped all my cutlery on the ground. Despite my clumsiness and nerves, Chris never doubted how perfect we could be together.
The proposal
Chris and I went to Walkerville for the weekend and little did I know that weekend Chris was going to propose. Weeks before this weekend, he went to see my dad at work and asked for his blessing of marriage and only asked my mum the day before as she cannot keep a secret especially this exciting news. I thought we were just going camping so I was wearing my old comfy tracksuit clothes. Whilst Chris was wearing a nice button up shirt however, I still didn’t click that anything was going to happen.
One piece of advice
Planning your special day can be stressful and exhausting. Remember to breathe and try to arrange vendors in advance.
We then arrived to Walkerville, set up our campsite and then went for a walk along the beach where we had a picnic rug in one hand, my favourite songs playing in the background with a Bluetooth speaker, a glass of wine and beer in our other hand. We then sat on the beach. I noticed Chris was being a bit odd. You could say a little bit nervous, he kept touching his pocket and that’s when I realised he got up on one knee and proposed. He said so many beautiful words. In that moment, I didn’t have to think twice and said yes to the man of my dreams.
The gown
I’ve always dreamt about my wedding dress, whether I pick a dress that is a bit more Cinderella style or whether more tight fitting. After endless scrolls on Pinterest and researching online. I then went to the city to find my dress. After trying many styles of wedding dresses. I stumbled across Jane Hill where I tried on my wedding dress. As soon as I tried this dress on, I knew I had to get this dress, the way it made me feel like a princess. It was simple and elegant. It fits my body so nicely and got minimal alterations done. I look back at my wedding photos today and I still adore my wedding dress and I would highly recommend Jane Hill!
The venue
The Vines on Avon is a fantastic entertainment space in a convenient location, not too far from Traralgon where most of their guests are based. The venue is beautiful, with the vines providing a stunning backdrop.
The ceremony
Josie shared “that they organized a witness lottery by placing all our guests’ names in a bowl. The bride and groom then drew two names to be included on the marriage certificate.” This added such a beautiful and special moment to their wedding ceremony.
Favourite memories
Josie loved her wedding day and shared “that one of their favourite memories was stepping away from their guests for a moment, which they enjoyed a picnic among the vines. It was a special time to savour each other’s company and cherish the realisation that we had just gotten married.
Favourite vendors
Josie loved all her vendors and shared “that the Pretty Bunch did a sensational job with the flower arrangements, making it easy to bring her inspiration ideas to life. Bonita Salon and Alarna Bell Makeup were equally amazing, ensuring all the girls’ makeup and hair were perfectly on point.
Vendors
Accessories Brides Shoes Wittner, Earrings Charlotte I Accommodation Duart Stables Maffra, Old Maffra Cottage I Alterations Natasha Borg Dress Maker I Bridal Gown & Veil Designer Jane Hill I Bridesmaid Dresses Billy J I Cake / Sweets Connie Knight Creations I Catering The Vines on Avon I Celebrant Graeme Macreadie I Ceremony Venue The Vines on Avon I Entertainment / Music Sweet Lips Band I Florist The Pretty Bunch I Grooms Attire Politix I Hair Stylist Bonita Salon I Honeymoon Cook Island I Invitations / Stationery Canva I Makeup Artist Alarna Bell Makeup I Nails / Tan Bronzed Bodied & Brows I Photographer Hannah Gilbert Photographer I Reception Venue The Vines on Avon I Robes, Sleepwear & Lingerie Myers I Transport Family Owned Vehicles
Hannah Gilbert Photographer
Photography for the adventurous, the sunset chasers and those who want something that is authentic and timeless. I’m an easy going, soft-spoken, lover of light and a photographer of people, places and moments that you’ll cherish. Nothing soothes my soul more than that golden light from a sunset and a wildly rugged and romantic mountain top view. On your wedding day, I’m all about blending in with your guests and capturing your wedding story in the most natural and unscripted way possible, so you can feel calm and relaxed. If you feel a connection to my work, then please be in touch, so we can start planning something amazing together!