Real Wedding – Kate & Jevan, Echunga SA
Kate and Jevan’s wedding at Hazelmere Homestead was the epitome of refined romance. An effortlessly elegant affair where every detail spoke to their values and vision.
With the freedom to plan on their own terms, they created a celebration that felt both deeply personal and undeniably timeless. A feast for the eyes, their day was adorned with crisp white florals, delicate greenery, and subtle touches of blue, striking the perfect balance between classic and contemporary.
Kate was a vision in a Prea James two-piece corset and skirt, her look elevated by a chic neck scarf that felt so very now, while Jevan’s black, open-button suit exuded quiet confidence. The styling was nothing short of dreamy; bows, drapery, and layers of soft textures adding an air of effortless sophistication.
A wedding that was as considered as it was beautiful, it was a true testament to planning with intention and celebrating in style, captured by Monica Cugnier Weddings with videography by Stacey McLean.
The meeting.
Jevan and I met through his sister, who was my colleague at the time. She mentioned him once or twice to me, and I said that I wasn’t keen on blind dates. One day he came into work, it was enough to change my mind. We went on that date and from there things hit off.
The ‘one’.
After a handful of dates, I think we were both pretty locked in. Things were easy and we shared so many similar interests. We got along so well and just wanted to see more of each other.
The proposal.
We had planned a trip to New Zealand. One of the first nights, we went to the Onsen Hotel Pools in Queenstown, which looks over the Shotover River. Jev wrote me a letter and asked me to read it aloud. In the end, he asked me the all-important question, and of course, I said yes instantly.
Planning process.
Not long after the proposal I was looking at dresses. I must say I didn’t realise how overwhelming it would be to work out exactly what you want. There are so many platforms and so many styles to draw from it was a lot, however there were things that I just kept coming back to.
I set myself a list and tried to tick something off at least every week. I know that sounds achievable, but trust me, things creep up fast and sometimes life gets in the way. My check list saved me, the best thing.
I started a wedding folder and even downloaded an app, which helped with my checklist.
From here, I slowly started building my schedule for the day and the days leading up to the day. We had our wedding at a family property, so we had quite a lot more planning to complete compared to others; however, we had lots of help and assistance to create our vision. This also meant that we could change things as we went or add things we had since thought we would include. The freedom of the venue was great.
Style inspiration.
Shortly after getting engaged, I was on Pinterest planning and looking at what sort of style we wanted to follow. The greens, whites, and touches of blues and black were just what I kept coming back to. No matter how it was styled, it always looked elegant, fresh and professional.
The ceremony.
Our ceremony was stunning – if we do say so ourselves. We had it out on the grass area in front of the property homestead. It was honestly just so stunning, white chairs, white plinths with flowers to match and some big white bows in the trees behind us. Loved every part.
Our celebrant was amazing, she coordinated the day perfectly and took away the stress for us. We had a relatively short ceremony, about 25-30 minutes, but it was all we wanted. Our vows included traditional promises as well as a personal touch from each of us, which was a little surprise on the day. I loved this, and it was a perfect match for us.
The outfit.
People who know me know I am the most indecisive person ever. I went and tried on dresses a handful of times. There were a few I loved and almost purchased, but within a few days, I changed my mind. I found my dress, I think, three months before the day. I had a set with a corset top and silk skirt, which were from Prea James Bridal; however, I purchased it through a lovely lady on Still White. She had purchased it and changed her mind, so I snapped it up. I saw it on Instagram and knew I had to have it. For my second look, I found a gorgeous tulle skirt. I had seen this on Instagram and fell in love with it.
I paired both with a neck scarf rather than a veil. I had tried a few veils on but felt they weren’t really me. I tried the scarf on, however, and instantly knew it was what I was going for – the perfect addition.
Favourite moments.
When the doors open and you walk out, seeing your partner at the end of the aisle. I will remember that moment for the rest of my life. Walking up to him, with all of our favourite people, was just the best.
Dancing at the end of the night, everyone’s a few wines deep and just having the best time.
Meaning of marriage.
Marriage is a commitment that you’re making with your partner, promising to them to go through life together. Appreciating the good times and enduring the hard times, being there for one another every day and doing everything you can to make one another happy.
Wedding soundtrack.
Aisle: Coastline by Hollow Voces (flower children and bridesmaids), Bloom by The Paper Kites (bride)
First Dance: Wildfire by Seafret
Father/daughter: My Girl by The Temptations
Funny stories or near disasters.
I wouldn’t say there were any funny stories as such, there were definitely late nights and long days planning.
On the day, we did notice a little mishap on our menus. ‘Friend Chicken’ somehow made the cut instead of ‘Fried Chicken’. Our MC made light of it, and it was actually quite funny.
Planning surprises.
The amount of things that you have to consider when planning the day. I can see why people spend the money on wedding planners. There are so many things that I didn’t even think about prior to; however, I am grateful that I took on the challenge and planned pretty much the whole day from start to finish.
Words of wisdom.
Enjoy the process. It’s easy to get caught in the planning of the day which is great but remember to step back and appreciate the lead up because the day will be here before you know it. Also, plan time for just the two of you on the day, we had a bridal table for just us two and it was honestly one of the best decisions of the day. You’re getting pulled in every direction all night so being able to sit down and take a moment together means the most.
Also, decide with each other things you consider important for the day and spend the money. There were things we didn’t budge on and are so glad we didn’t because they turned out to be the best things.
We know that wedding planning can be an all-encompassing task, and it can be tricky to know where to even start. First things first, the style of wedding can help set the tone for the remainder of the planning which is why we have a plethora of inspiration on different wedding styles for you right here.
KATE & JEVAN’S VENDORS
Ceremony & reception venue: Hazelmere Homestead (Echunga, Adelaide Hills)
Celebrant: Katie Newton Celebrant
Photography: Monica Cugnier Weddings
Videography: Stacey McLean
Florist: Yolande Florals & The Flower Shed
Hair: By Demi Rose
Make-up: Behold Her
The dress: Prea James
Shoes: Zara
Rings: Cullen Jewellery & The Moissanite Company
Bridesmaid’s dresses: Peppermayo
Suits: Groom – Peter Jackson, Best man – Peter Shearer
Catering: Chopping Board Catering
Cake: Cheryse Zagler
Stationery / Signage: Peppermint Press, Creo Designs and Dot & Grain
Entertainment: Baker Boys Band
Honeymoon: Queenstown, New Zealand
