Queensland Brides Winter 2023 - ISSUE 122 | Page 96

“ We wanted to get married with a view of the ocean and also both really love the timeless feel of the resort ”

“ We wanted to get married with a view of the ocean and also both really love the timeless feel of the resort ”

When scouting for their dream wedding venue , proximity to sea and sand was a non-negotiable for this pair of beach-lovers . And it doesn ’ t get much better than the Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort , where the Gold Coast beachfront is only a bouquet toss away ! “ We wanted to get married with a view of the ocean and both really love the timeless feel of the resort ,” says Chloe . “ It also meant we could get photos on the beach after our ceremony .”

Sophisticated beach styling and chic holiday vibes were the order of the day for the pair who first met on Bumble back in 2017 . After managing to sneak in a weekday first date , it wasn ’ t long before they were setting up house with two adorable dogs ( and Sam was planning a sweet proposal in Noosa ). “ He told me we were going on a work golf trip for the weekend – he had me fooled !” says Chloe . “ Kayaking on the Noosa River in the rain , we stopped at a secluded beach – very The Notebook of him ( haha , he still hasn ’ t seen that movie !). It was a very special moment .”
When bringing their wedding together , Chloe & Sam ’ s aesthetic proved an excellent match for their venue ’ s five-star surrounds , with layers of luxurious white setting the tone . “ We both have a ‘ relaxed classic ’ style : think white , elegant , classic and simple with a hint of European summer .” says Chloe . Guest experience also a top priority . “ We wanted everyone to feel like they were on holiday . A lot of our guests relaxed by the pool and on the beach in the days leading up to and after our wedding . It also simplified things in terms of travel as we got married and had our reception at the resort , which felt like a dream .”
The pair stayed on brief with their fashion choices : Chloe in a luxe Chosen by KYHA silk gown and her groom fresh and sharp in a white dinner jacket . The bride also followed the beloved ‘ old , new , borrowed , blue ’ tradition . “ I had my grandmother ’ s pearl ring ( something old ). Mum and dad surprised me with a pearl pendant and Sam sent a heart and key charm to my room ( new ). I wore a gold bangle and tennis bracelet from my mum and mother-in-law ( borrowed ). One of my bridesmaids and best friends stitched our wedding date in blue on a white handkerchief ( blue ). Sam ’ s grandmother also made a horseshoe charm and Sam ’ s mum made a beautiful fruit cake ( my favourite !).” Another nod to tradition was a New Zealand sweet ( Sam is from NZ ) for one of their wedding favours : lolly cake ( look it up , yum !).
Just like their proposal day , raindrops brought a cinematic mood , but the couple enjoyed every moment , from Chloe ’ s relaxed morning-of with family and friends to her walk down the aisle on her father ’ s arm , and the couple ’ s heartfelt ceremony and incredible reception party . And the couple ’ s advice for others planning a summer celebration . “ Have a wet weather back-up plan ( even just pretty umbrellas ),” Chloe says . “ And think about a ceremony somewhere with air-conditioning if it ’ s hot ( we did and it was great !). The last thing you want to think about is how sweaty and uncomfortable you and your guests are instead of enjoying the moment .” One look at the newlyweds ’ dance floor photos and it ’ s clear this was a moment very much enjoyed !”
96 Winter 2023