Great Destination Weddings Issue 10 / 2023 | Page 95

real weddings

hyped us up , seeing all the people we love all checked-in and excited for our day ,” says Jessica .
The day-of felt fresh and sophisticated : the bride stunning in a Tal Kedem gown and her groom looking sharp in a classic black tux . The mood ? Country estate meets coastal-cool , with details carefully chosen to reflect the location and the pair ’ s personal style . Fig Tree ’ s grounds radiated with love , laughter , and happy tears as this gorgeous couple played out their fairytale .
Most precious memory ? “ Hearing our aisle song ( Oceans by Kenna Childs ),” says Jessica . “ Walking down on my own was empowering . I see Joel ’ s welled-up eyes ahead and , as I nearly reach him , everyone ’ s supportive claps start to carry me the rest of the way . I remember us smiling ( trying not to look like sobbing messes ) and holding hands as he said : “ you look so beautiful ”.
The loved-up ceremony was followed by cocktails and canapés poolside and a reception feast inside the restaurant , where “ our friends took full advantage of the microphone and had us all in stitches ,” says the bride . Though their wedding “ felt like a vacation ”, the newlyweds set off two days later to honeymoon in southern Europe . “ It was so nice to get away so quickly and enjoy time together whilst still overwhelmed with love and excitement ,” notes Jessica .
Our bride also has some golden nuggets for other couples in the throes of planning . “ Trust your vendors and let them work their talent . Get your invites out early . Choose a venue / planner that you ’ re comfortable with and can connect with . Check seasons , school holidays , time differences and book as vendors can sometimes book out years in advance .” Couldn ’ t agree more .
DREAM TEAM
Ceremony & reception Fig Tree Restaurant
Planner Maddie Ellis , Byron Bay Weddings Gown Tal Kedem Bridal Florals Bloodwood Botanica Cake Marina
Machado Photography Ivy Road Photography
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