Winter 2022 | Page 74

One might not consider an indoor sports stadium the ideal locale for a meet-cute , but for Kate and Michael , romance blossomed on the netball court . Michael wasn ’ t a seasoned player , and learning rules on the fly was compounded by a rather lovely distraction in the form of Wing Defence — Kate ( who noted her future-husband “ played like an AFL player !”). As the weeks passed , and the spirit of competition heated up , it became clear there was a spark between the pair . “ Five months later , we started dating and never looked back !” says Kate . Eventually , the couple moved to Darwin , sharing a new life ( and plenty more games ) in the tropics . A proposal wasn ’ t far away , and — we ’ ll forgive you for the dash of envy — Michael whisked Kate off to France to pop the question . Picture this : the romantic region of Champagne , in front of the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims … and , of course , Kate said yes ! Although they were still living in Darwin , Michael and Kate knew they wanted to host a Queensland wedding — but were soon to experience the delights of hard border closures . “ Most of the wedding was planned remotely ,” reveals Kate . “ It had its challenges !” To bring their dreams to life , the couple relied on their A-grade team of vendors , including key players the Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort Gold Coast and planner / stylist Marisha at Magnolia Studios .

[ Top ] A beautifully dressed ceremony arbour from Magnolia Studios framed the heartfelt ceremony . [ Below left ] A warm welcome . [ Below ] The bridal party takes to the Sheraton boardwalk for their photo call , with Ben and Hope Photography capturing the joy of the day .

74 Winter 2022