The love story
Mikayla and Benn first connected 8 years ago when he messaged her on Facebook. After chatting for a while, they decided to meet in person. However, after two failed attempts due to Benn cancelling for various reasons, Mikayla thought he might not be interested. We eventually rescheduled for a third time and finally met. From the moment we met, we felt an instant connection and were comfortable with each other immediately. There was no awkward silence, and our bond continued to grow from that moment on.
The engagement
Benn took me to Mikayla to her favourite place, the beach, for a walk. After they had been walking for a while, I was slightly ahead of him, looking at the waves. He grabbed my hand, and when I turned around, there he was on one knee, asking me to marry him.
The wedding gown
Mikayla fell in love with her gown and shared “I loved the intricate details of my dress design and how it sparkled in the sunlight. The back of the dress was especially beautiful and became one of my favourite features.”
One piece of advice
Enjoy the planning process together because it goes by so quickly. On the day, take 5 or 10 minutes to step away as a couple and watch everyone enjoying themselves. It was the best thing we did.
The venue
Tamara, the owner of The Vines on Avon, was incredibly accommodating to our needs. She was very organised both on the day and throughout the entire planning process, making us feel calm and at ease. The venue itself is beautiful.
Favourite memories
“The moment I reached the end of the aisle and we finally saw each other was beautiful, especially as we heard each other’s vows.”
“Walking down the aisle was a highlight for both Benn and me. Finally seeing each other and sharing that emotional moment was unforgettable. During the reception, we took a quiet walk into the vineyard, reflecting on our guests enjoying themselves and cherishing some time together.”
Favourite vendors
We were lucky enough to have everything run smoothly thanks to our vendors.
“All of our vendors were fantastic, but the three standouts for us were our photographer, Annmaree from Strattan Photography, venue owner Tamara at The Vines on Avon, and celebrant Alana, The Homegrown Celebrant. Our day would not have run as smoothly without their support. Their calm and organized presence, both during the planning stages and on the day itself, made us feel at ease and ensured our special day was absolutely perfect.”
Vendors
Alterations Amante Bridal I Bridal Gown & Veil Designer Fairytale Bridal Boutique I Bridesmaid Dresses Billy J Boutique I Cake / Sweets The Cheesecake Shop I Catering The Vines on Avon I Celebrant The Homegrown Celebrant I Ceremony Venue The Vines on Avon I Dance Lessons Gillian Warwick Dance & Choreography I Entertainment / Music Cocktail Hour Music, Mat Howlett DJ, Spinning Disc Entertainment I Favours / Gifts DIY – Lotto Tickets & Personalised Cookies I Florist Benita Tscharke Floral I Grooms Attire Panthers Menswear I Hair Stylist Pley Huis I Hire Services Fitzpatricks Entertainment & Fireworks I Honeymoon Port Douglas I Invitations / Stationery DIY I Jewellery Etsy & Colette I Makeup Artist Beauty by Becki I Nails / Tan Beauty by Ashlee Swan, Bronzed Bodies & Brows I Photographer Strattan Photography I Reception Venue The Vines on Avon I Robes, Sleepwear & Lingerie Le Rose Stories I Videographer Meadow Lane Visuals
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.