dessert display tipsstunning real weddings

wow factor flowersvintage to bohovol 8: novella

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Kathy & Danielle xx

Kate & Grant 04 The Romantic 18 Cessiah & Josh 27 Your Questions

Answered 38 Sarah & Steve 40 Novella 52

Jacqueline & Chris 66 Just Desserts 78 Casey & Jake

84 Supplier Guide 92

Kate & Grantcaptured by curly tree photography

Kate and Grant may have surprised their guests with their engagement-party-turned-wedding-day, but every detail of this relaxed celebration was beautifully planned and delivered! What started with an outdoor cinema screen concealing

their ceremony arbour, finished with a rustic barn reception on the family property, overflowing with good food, good wine and great music.

The Reveal“We both enjoyed planning everything together - but keeping the secret was hard! Our guests arrived to our 'engagement party' and once everyone was comfortable with a drink in hand, Grant and I and our bridal party sneakily left to get ready - 15 minutes later

our ceremony started! All our guests sat on old-style lounges or hay bales, we had a rustic arch covered in flowers and our

celebrant kept it fun and sweet.”

"We wanted everyone to enjoy an amazing party and just happened to get

married while we were there!"

Entertaining Guests“After the ceremony, the bridal party left to get some photos taken and our

guests carried on with the party we had started before! The bar was open and there was a beautiful grazing table with cheeses, cured meats and bread

available for guests to enjoy while they waited.”

Bridal Party Styling“Each bridesmaid chose a dress that suited their own style and it worked out beautifully. They also chose their own shoes and how they wanted their hair done. We dressed the groomsmen in the same chinos and vest as Grant, but a

different shirt and tie. The only thing Grant and I insisted on for the bridal party was the gumboots for the photos!”

Finding 'The One'Kate had no intention of choosing her gown while she was

helping her sister-in-law find her wedding dress, “I just decided to try a few on a whim - we stepped into the last shop on our list and both found exactly what we wanted! When everyone

starts tearing up, you know that dress is the one. It was a simple dress made of vintage lace - perfect for the type of

wedding we were planning, and perfect for me!”

Best Advice“Try to remember what's

really important about the day - you and your fiancé expressing your

love and commitment to one another in front of all your loved ones. No matter what happens,

your day will be perfect because of that!”

Location NSW Photography Curly Tree Photography Venue Private Property Celebrant Nell Dark-Jones

Styling The Wedding Designer Flowers Jade McIntosh Flowers Cake Groom's Sister Catering Lillies & Limes

Gown Q'nique Suits RDX Hair & Makeup Sublime Hair Skin Body

The Romanticcaptured by alana taylor photography

When a vintage lace gown is discovered in a thrift shop, taken to a wild, windswept landscape and paired with rich

crimson blooms, it starts its journey anew…

- Alana Taylor

"I got lost in its beauty and the mystery of whom it once belonged to."

flower menu

David Austin and garden

roses•

Pieris•

Sweet pea•

Hypericum berries

•Fern

•Jasmine

•Foraged greenery

natural beautyMakeup artist Claudia Molinaro chose a palette of warm browns, plums and burgundy for the eyes, and a soft peach for the cheeks. “These colours enhanced the model’s green eyes, not only against the eyeshadows but also the vibrant flowers.” A lip and cheek stain were also used with a balm to create plump, kissable lips.

Find the perfect fit “Choose a size and style of flower crown that suits your head shape and body type. For example, something not too big if you have a small frame.” The weight of the arrangement will also play a part here - you not only

want to look gorgeous, but feel comfortable too!

Consider your bouquet“If you've got a large bouquet, you don't want your

crown to compete too much - however, you could go for a statement piece just for the reception when you

are no longer carrying around your bouquet.”

Match your hairstyle “Flower crowns look great with or without a veil, and

best with a looser hairstyle, either with your hair out or swept up.” Your florist and hairstylist will each do their part to ensure the crown is easy to secure and stays in

place throughout the day.

Rock the CrownFrom a delicate circlet to a mass of fragrant florals, a

flower crown can add a beautiful touch to your wedding day look. We asked Bek Town of Floral Pines Design Co

for her quick tips on rocking this fresh accessory.

Trending Now- Julia Rose -

wedding flowers by julia rose

“The latest trend is not to flower crown during the ceremony, but to add it after the first round

of photos are taken for a fun and relaxed second look. I find brides are then wearing it into and throughout the reception. Flowers worn at the

ceremony are trending more so towards custom pieces made into the hairstyle.”

Location NSW Photography & Styling Alana Taylor Dress Vintage Flowers Floral Pines Design Co Hair Emma Stapleton Makeup Claudia Molinaro Model Brooke Stapleton

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a little vintage blissWedding Hub

The Savvy Bride's Meeting PlaceThe Wedding Hub is a 'chillaxed' place for brides to come

to obtain information on selected high quality vendors. We provide brides with a comprehensive meeting to assist them in connecting with the very best in the

wedding industry in South East Qld.

Open by appointment at 1/9 Kohl Street, Upper CoomeraTricia Tirado 0411 510 441

Facebook - alittlevintageblissweddinghubWebsite - www.alittlevintageblissweddinghub.com.au

Cessiah & Joshcaptured by smitten wedding photography

When the bride is a talented milliner with an equally creative family, you can expect a celebration filled with incredible details! Cessiah and Josh’s wedding

is an artful blend of rustic and bohemian chic - with a mint and soft pink palette weaving its way through this uniquely beautiful day.

top moments

“The whole day was absolutely magical. Getting ready with my sisters and Mum in the morning was so special. Definitely the

most memorable was when Josh was saying his vows - I was so close to tears, it was just beautiful!”

dress search

“The dress I ended up choosing I just picked up thinking, ‘I'll give it a go’, even though it was nothing like what I envisioned wearing. I put it on and before I'd even zipped it up I was yelling out, ‘This is the one!’ It just fit perfectly and I felt so comfortable and beautiful in it, so I bought it right then and there!”

bridesmaid style

“The bridesmaids' dresses were called ‘It's Meant To Bead’, and it was definitely meant to be, considering I got them

before my dress and they went so perfectly together! Mum made our headpieces and they were just amazing.”

"Do what you love

and stick to your guns -

don't worry about what other people

think or expect."

sharp suiting

“I organised the boys’ outfits with my dad - his store was the source of shirts, ties, shoes and other

accessories. It all went so well together with the green suits I ordered online!”

the reception

“Our venue was exactly what I wanted - an industrial space that still felt intimate. Mum, my sisters and I made a lot of the decorations and Mum did an absolutely amazing job styling the reception! I didn't know exactly how it would look until I got there and was absolutely in awe when I saw it...all the

hard work had definitely paid off.”

Location VIC Photography Smitten Wedding Photography Ceremony Geelong Revival Centre Priest Pastor Noel Hollins Reception Zigfrids Dining Hall Bridal Accessories, Styling, Flowers & Cake Ruby & Leo Gown Rachel Gilbert Bridesmaids ModCloth Hair & Makeup Blush Makeup Artistry Suits ASOS Men's Shirts & Accessories Blue Suede

Transport Greater City Classics

your questions answered...From hot trends to tricky situations, we're here to connect you with

the experts, inspire you with fresh ideas and help you navigate the sometimes murky waters of wedding planning! Send in your

questions to connect@theweddingplaybook.com.

Lynd

al C

arm

icha

el P

hoto

grap

hy

What are some ways we can include our parents

in our ceremony?

What is important for me to ask my

photographer before the wedding?

How can we make our flower budget stretch as far as possible without losing

'wow factor'?

- Georgia Mills -marriage celebrant

A few heartfelt words can have a lovely effect. I often mention that the bride and groom would like to acknowledge that without the love

and support of their parents, this day would not be possible.

Sometimes I will invite the parents to stand and ask for their blessing of the marriage. “John and Simone, do you welcome Andrew into your family

and into your hearts?” “Yes, we do.” This can also be done in a fun way:

“Will you help them with future babysitting and dog sitting whenever

it is required?” “Yes, we will.”

- Amy Verduyn -bella in bloom

Choose one statement piece like centrepieces or a hanging feature. Using flowering foliage such as

Geraldton wax or tea tree can also make your budget stretch further

without the single stem flower cost.

- Meghan Fletcher -good grace & humour

Rather than having a particular variety in mind, suggest a colour

scheme and style so the florist can forage for the freshest (and cheapest) seasonal flowers in the week leading

up to your wedding.

- Lou O'Brien -images by lou o'brien

Talk to your photographer before setting the ceremony time - they will make sure you have enough time for bridal photos in between your ceremony and reception without being rushed

and stressed.

Sarah & Stevecaptured by willow & co.

After a romantic winery proposal, including a helicopter flight and private champagne lunch overlooking the vines, Sarah and Steve returned

a year later to tie the knot. Bringing together a great team of suppliers, their stylish day was crafted by the experts, allowing the couple to relax

and enjoy their experience from start to finish.

Planning Experience“Surprisingly. I found the planning quite easy and stress free.

We always wanted a smaller, more intimate wedding and I wanted the whole process to reflect this.”

SANT ELIAS A N T E L I A . C O M . A U

Finding the Dress“Before getting engaged I never thought about what dress I wanted.

While reading blogs I found ‘The One’, and as soon as I tried it on - a skirt and top - I fell in love. I loved that my dress was so

comfortable and not too ‘bridal’.”

Wedding Day Vibe“The day itself was super relaxed - as all the guests were staying at the location, we all went to the pub the night before. Whilst getting ready the morning of, we also had visitors popping by - it was like a little community!”

Bridal Party Styling“I wanted white for the bridesmaids as I think it’s a

classic look that worked really well with our colourful flowers. Steve always wanted to wear chinos and a blazer - we found an amazing velvet blazer and

bowtie which were perfect.”

"It's important to choose suppliers who understand

you and your concept, and to trust them - they

are the experts!"

Reception Decor“The reception had a whimsical garden party style, with long rather than circular group tables. The room was full

of flowers, French furniture and lighting. I was very happy with it all and how it reflected our style.”

Best Advice“I didn’t get too involved with the ‘small stuff’ and let the suppliers run with the ideas I had provided - this is where they are

most creative!

The day is not only meant to be about your love for each other but cherishing the time with your guests. It’s very rare that all your

friends and family are in one place to celebrate

your love.”

Favourite Moment

“With formalities out of the way early, we had

the most amazing band and just didn’t get off the dance floor! I remember

looking around and seeing all our loved ones surrounding us - it was

incredible.”

Location NSW Photography Willow & Co. Film La Lune Cinema Venue Chateau Elan Celebrant Chris Simond, Side by Side Planning, Styling & Flowers Angelic Events Cake All Things Sweet by Carissa Gown The Babushka Ballerina Bridesmaids Zimmermann Hair & Makeup Make-up Mode Groom Country Road Velvet Jacket & Witchery Man Shirt & Pants Groomsmen Witchery Man String Trio Sweethearts Music Band Jon Elms DJ DJ D-Flat

Novellacaptured by we are origami photography

InspirationSome moments are truly perfect, like when the sun breaks through on a cloudy day, or you wake to your own wedding morning. When shared with those you

love, these moments become chapters of your story, recounted fondly over family feasts and champagne toasts. Having witnessed countless stories in its nearly two hundred year history, the stunning setting of Bendooley Estate now inspires a new

narrative, filled with artisanal details and timeless style.

The CeremonyCorey from Styled by Her wanted to capture the romance of fallen autumn leaves with draped, ruffled linen and a palette of ruby and

burgundy. “Nestled under the canopy of a tree, the ceremony space is styled with natural tones. Gold Moroccan tray tables hold large vases of lush blooms, and antique crystal lights hang in the arbour

to add to the dreamy setting.”

The ReceptionEach place setting at the

reception is framed by a unique floral display. “Deep burgundy amaranths, roses and berries seamlessly blend the place

settings with the central table styling of glass, gold, lace and

raw cut quartz crystals.

Delicate, tapered ivory candles are also woven throughout, with

antique cutlery, linen napkins and silk ribbons added for detail

and texture.”

StationeryInvitations and menus are intricately hand lettered in gold ink on luxurious, torn edge watercolour card. Translucent

place cards offer a modern twist on old world charm, featuring guests’ names in white ink.

Edible ArtCathy from Cake Arcade, embraced the literary inspiration with her design, “Wanting to reflect the style of the invitations, we created our cake based around the quote, ‘You will forever by my always’. It features hand painted calligraphy, a flowing tier of ruffles, brushed antique gold lustre and florals in an organic,

loose style to match the bouquet and table centrepieces.”

Bridal StyleEarthy toned smoky eyes, peach blush and rosy lips create a romantic makeup look, first paired with a classic side bun and soft tulle gown for the ceremony. A change to a modern, messy braided ponytail and baroque lace gown makes a statement at the reception, offering the

perfect conclusion to this beautiful celebration.

Location NSW Photography We Are Origami Venue

Bendooley Estate Concept & Model Styling The

Wedding Playbook Concept & Styling Styled by Her

Flowers Clementine Posy Stationery Written by Hand Cake Cake Arcade Gowns

& Earrings Hope and Page Hair & Makeup Amy Chan

Hair & Makeup Artistry (using M.A.C. Cosmetics and

DMKC) Headpiece Bride La Boheme Model Cristina

Garces, Wink Models

Jacqueline & Chriscaptured by jessica ross photography

Whether choosing their venue, sending out invitations or taste-testing cake flavours, these high school sweethearts made sure every part of their wedding planning was a special experience. With a sumptuous palette of

rich pinks, purples and gold, Jacqui and Chris’ black tie event features plenty of gorgeous details and old world glamour.

planning priorities“We have grown up together over thirteen years and wanted our wedding day to reflect how close we are as a couple, and how much we love everyone who has supported us along the way. The most important thing was to be true to ourselves.”

including family“We made sure each of our family members had a special role to play

on the day. We also tied in traditions, like eternity wreaths hanging from my bouquet, which is a German tradition that my mother and

grandmother had on their wedding days.”

"at the church, all i could see was her silhouette in the

doorway. as jacqui walked up the aisle, the light started to show her dress, and face smiling underneath her veil."

- Chris

the ceremony“We got married in Chris' family church and wanted

the ceremony to be traditional, but with our own unique touches. We had friends play guitar and violin as guests

arrived, and during the ceremony, the church choir joined us in singing the hymns, which sounded amazing.”

bridal party style“Pink and purple tulle dresses fit the romantic, elegant style I wanted for the girls, designed so that each bridesmaid could create their own

neckline. We opted for tuxedos for the groomsmen, with dark pink bow ties and floral boutonnieres to match.”

the reception“Long rectangular tables were decorated with gold sequinned table runners, tea lights and vases filled with gorgeous flowers in shades of deep pinks and purples. Each table number represented a year that we had been dating. Our absolute favourite feature was the hanging floral installation over the bridal

table - it took our breath away when we walked into the reception.”

the cake“A good family friend made our beautiful wedding

cake as a gift for us. It was so fun to be able to design it and see it being made with so much love.”

handmade details“My mum and I run an events business, so we love being hands on and getting creative. We did all the stationery, table decorations and centrepieces ourselves,

and even the boys did some DIY - hand cutting and painting wooden blocks which held signs and table numbers.”

Location NSW Photography Jessica Ross Photography Church St Swithun's

Anglican Church Programs Fine Invitations Ceremony Music Mimosa Duo Reception Venue View by Sydney

Reception Music Baker Boys Band Styling Party Palette Flowers My

Violet Gown Pronovias Bridesmaids Jenny Yoo Hair AngelHair Roseville

Makeup Makeup By Jazz Diaz

top tips1. Make sure all decisions are

what's right for you as a couple. Whenever you get stressed or

unsure, remember why you want to get married and what the day is

supposed to represent.

2. Take time to savour every minute of the day. You’ll be rushed at times

to get to the next part of the day, but make sure you dance, taste your

desserts and enjoy mingling with your guests. If you need a few extra minutes to chat to someone or take a

photo, do it.

3. Have a few minutes to yourselves to overlook the scene of your wedding. Seeing everything

you’ve planned come to life and all the people you love in the room

enjoying the night is so special.

Just Dessertscaptured by lola images

If you’re looking for an after-dinner highlight for your celebration, a dessert table is the ultimate crowd pleaser (so much so you’ll need

opening hours!). Here we explore why a delectable display is a must-have at your reception, and share expert tips for perfect presentation.

Taste TestEasily cater to different tastes

and dietary requirements with a diverse display.

Picture PerfectWhen styled to complement your colour palette or theme, a dessert table provides a beautiful focal

point at your reception.

Memory LaneEnjoy choosing treats which hold

a special place in your heart. Perhaps macarons are a lovely

nod to that trip you took to Paris, or Grandma's lemon meringue pie is an old family favourite.

Sweet GiftThank your guests for sharing in the occasion with an interactive

experience! They can box up a selection as bonbonnieres to

enjoy the next day.

Sample MenuRed wine poached pears

•Berries and cream tart

•Chocolate and raspberry éclairs

•Salted caramel macarons

•Vanilla bean cookie stacks

•Lemon meringue tarts

•Raspberry swirl cupcakes

- Tahnee Upton -verlena cakes

“A great dessert table has to have something for every guest. The key is to offer a

range of sweet treats, some rich and decadent, some light and

fruity. I also think the items on the menu have to reflect the theme or feel of the event.

A variety of heights is important for visual interest. My aim is to have everything look so delicious that guests don't know what to try first!”

Location WA Photography Lola Images Venue Guild Hall, Fremantle Styling &

Hire Pretty Willow Flowers Lime Flowers Cake & Dessert Table Verlena Cakes Gown

Through The White Door Bolero Mode & Affaire Hair & Makeup The Pretty Parlour

captured by krissie kearney

This lovely couple had no trouble deciding the style they wanted for their big day. Taking cues from their venue and desire for stunning flowers, Casey and Jake created a celebration full of vintage touches and travel-themed details

for a beautiful fusion of old and new.

Casey + Iake

From pebbles to diamonds“We were staying in a beautiful resort in Thailand. When I got to

our room there was an outfit laid out for me, a letter and a ring box. Inside the box was a pure white pebble, and the letter explained that it signified engagement between penguins - when they have found their

soulmate, they search for the perfect pebble to give.

Jake told me in the letter to enjoy a massage, get dressed and meet him on the beach. He’d placed candles in the sand and asked me to marry

him as we watched the sun set.”

Creating the dress

“Trying on wedding dresses was one of the most fun experiences

I have ever had. I think it’s really important for a bride to

try everything - what I thought I would like was not flattering at all!

I also did a lot of research online, then drew my dream dress. My mum has always made me a lot of clothes, but her making my

wedding dress was really special.”

Favourite moment“For Jake, it was when the music started, breaking the suspense of waiting to see me and for me, it was walking with my dad. He said to me halfway, “You look

really good Casey” - this had me just about in tears way too early. I said, “Don’t say that to me” so he replied, “You look bloody awful.” Thanks Dad - it made for

a good story in his reception speech!”

Styling concept

“We wanted a very natural vibe and didn’t want to go too overboard with the travel theme, so we

only introduced it slightly throughout our décor.

We gave our florist a warm autumn colour palette, a

swatch of the fabric for the bridesmaids dresses and told her to go crazy with whatever was in season and readily available.”

Entertaining guests

“We had giant chess and croquet for guests to play

whilst we had photos taken. Throughout the

reception we had a band for entertainment and a

photo booth with props.”

Location QLD Photography Krissie Kearney Photography Venue Gabbinbar Homestead Celebrant Collette Rooney Flowers The Organic Florist Gown & Bridesmaids Mother

of the Bride Hair & Makeup Bride’s Friends Suits yd. Invitations Bride’s Sister

“Start planning early, keep a journal and don’t

leave the little things to the last minute. If

something goes wrong on the day, who cares?

You are the only one that will notice and at the

end of the day, you still get to marry your love."

images by lou o'brien

sant elia

tattersall's function centre

photography by emma pointon

My name is Lou O'Brien and I’m addicted to weddings! Based on the Sunshine Coast, I feel so honoured to be part of a couple’s special day and put my whole heart into capturing each couples’ unique story.

Intricate detail, clever draping and a touch of cheekiness are hallmarks of Sant Elia’s approach to creating distinctive and fashion-forward gowns. Our bespoke couture concept encapsulates vintage European inspired designs, interlaced with today’s modern-glam.

Hidden in the heart of the city and with an abundance of spaces to choose from, Tattersall’s Function Centre invites you to experience the majestic facilities this unique venue has to offer for both your ceremony and reception.

I am a Fremantle based photographer who adores working with unique, quirky and delightfully happy couples. I specialise in photographing naturally, with minimal posing, to ensure your wedding is full of fun and laughter and not about having photos taken.

Click on the profiles below to find out more about these fantastic suppliers.

the supplier guide

lyndal carmichael photography

My top priority is to give you amazing wedding photos but it’s also really important to me that we have fun doing it! My couples often comment how they feel like they are just hanging out with a friend.

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a little vintage bliss

the wedding zone

This is just a taste of the vendors we recommend as part of The Playbook Creative - a community of the best in the business who are ready to make your wedding day amazing! Click here to visit our online directory and prepare to be inspired...

Have a perfect and unique wedding day with A Little Vintage Bliss Styling. We can help your ceremony and reception dreams come true with our fabulous range of vintage and modern hire items. Let us make your day A Little Vintage Blissful.

As ceremony design specialists, we can create the most unique events in the most beautiful of locations. Bringing your ideas to life with The Wedding Zone since 1999, we use fresh flowers, custom designed products and a team of talented ladies and gents dedicated to your day.

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