Real Wedding – Melissa & Tim, East Bentleigh VIC
When Melissa and Tim surprised their reception guests with a traditional lion dance performance, it was a unique and considered nod to the bride’s Chinese heritage.
It was also an entertaining and highly effective way to open the dancefloor with energy and set the tone for a joyous night to follow.
The hint of red in the abundant florals popped perfectly among elegant white draping, linen and furniture and complemented the pair’s traditional Tea Ceremony outfits to create an atmosphere that was glamorous and romantic but also rich with culture.
Read on to discover how a quick-thinking groomsman’s innovative problem-solving saved the day not once but twice, and delight in the mesmerising grandeur of the celebration as shot by Paul Osta Photography.
The meeting.
We met at a mutual friend’s birthday party. I noticed Tim as soon as he walked in, but he definitely took his time before coming over to talk to me, so when he finally asked for my number, I was very pleasantly surprised! What made it feel even more special was hearing from his friends later that it was very rare for Tim to do something like that.
The ‘one’.
There wasn’t just one moment, but a collection of them over time. The way we connected, laughed and supported each other just kept reinforcing that this was something truly special.
The proposal.
Tim proposed on Waikiki Beach in Oahu, Hawaii, with the stunning Diamond Head in the background – it was absolutely magical. He completely caught me off guard while we were having our photo taken, which made the moment even more special and surreal. He knows Hawaii is my favourite place in the world, so it truly felt like a dream come true. I couldn’t have imagined a more perfect setting for such a life-changing moment.
Planning process.
Surprisingly, we chose our venue quite quickly – it just felt right from the moment we saw it. One of the suppliers we spent the most time on was our caterer, as food was a really important part of the day for us. We wanted our guests to have a memorable dining experience, and we’re so glad we took the time to find the perfect fit. As for our other vendors, we discovered most of them, including our florist and our incredible photographer, through Instagram. It was such a helpful tool for finding creatives whose style really aligned with our vision for the day.
Style inspiration.
We absolutely loved that the venue was already beautifully styled with lush greenery, blooming flowers, and towering trees that gave it such a romantic yet glamorous atmosphere. The giant chandeliers added just the right touch of elegance and made the whole space feel magical. It really set the perfect tone for our wedding without us having to do too much in terms of extra decor. To match the style of the space, the dress code was cocktail.
The outfits.
Mel: I found my dress through an online boutique that also had a physical store, which was really helpful and allowed me to try it on in person. Funnily enough, the dress I chose was the very first one that caught my eye when I was browsing online, and it wasn’t a style I originally pictured myself in. I honestly thought I’d be one of those brides who would visit multiple stores and try on dozens of dresses, but in the end, I only went to two.
What made my look even more special was wearing my mum’s veil, the same one she wore on her wedding day. It added such a sentimental touch. I also wore a beautiful white flower jewelled headpiece comb that I found secondhand on Facebook Marketplace. It was such a lovely little treasure. Everything came together perfectly, and I truly felt like myself.
For our Chinese Tea Ceremony, we both changed into traditional red Chinese outfits. We were both really excited to wear something so meaningful and unique during the reception. The vibrant red and intricate designs all felt so rich in culture and tradition. Finding the right cheongsam for myself actually ended up proving to be more challenging to find than my wedding dress! But in the end, I found one that I absolutely loved and felt truly elegant and special in.
Tim: When it came to choosing my wedding suit, I wanted something that truly reflected me. The combination of a white tuxedo jacket and black slacks felt distinctive, stylish, and, dare I say, just a little James Bond. I had my suit tailored at YSG Tailors in Richmond, who were incredibly helpful in guiding me toward a style that struck the perfect balance between classic and modern. Their attention to detail made all the difference and the end result felt sharp, comfortable and entirely personal.
I chose classic black tuxedos for my groomsmen as it was something timeless they could wear again. It also made the white tuxedo jacket the perfect way for me to subtly stand out while still keeping everything cohesive.
For footwear, I went with Armani derby-style shoes. I’ve never liked overly pointed dress shoes, so the rounded, structured design of the derbies felt much more “me.” They were sleek, modern, and the ideal finishing touch.
Favourite moment.
It’s hard to just choose one! Our first look, which we shared in a quiet park before the ceremony, was such a special, private moment between the two of us, and it really helped calm our nerves before everything began.
We also loved our father-daughter and mother-son dances, which added a heartfelt and personal touch to the evening, and it meant so much to be able to share that time with our parents.
Lastly, a major highlight, and a total surprise for our guests, was the lion dance performance! It was full of energy and excitement, and many of our friends and family had never seen anything like it before, especially at a wedding. The performers were incredible, and it was such a meaningful way to honour Mel’s Chinese heritage. It’s a moment we’ll never forget.
Meaning of marriage.
Wanting to not only share your life with the person you love but committing to building a life together as one. Promising to love and support each other through both the ups and the downs and realising that life is not easy, and there will be challenges, but if there’s anyone you want to work through them with – it’s your person. It’s a partnership you commit to working on for the rest of your lives. Because you know that your love is true and it will always be worth it. And at the end of the day, coming home to that person is a happiness you never want to let go of.
Wedding soundtrack.
Aisle: Can’t Help Falling in Love With You by Kina Grannis
Reception entrance: Shooting Stars by The Bag Raiders (Tim’s favourite song of all time!).
First dance: Say You Won’t Let Go by Boyce Avenue
Father/daughter dance: Somewhere Over The Rainbow by Ella Fitzgerald (one of Mel’s dad’s favourite Jazz singers)
Funny stories.
During the ‘getting ready’ photos, Tim’s best man realised he’d forgotten his white pocket square. In quick thinking improvisation (and mild panic), he folded up a piece of toilet paper and tucked it neatly into his suit jacket. Surprisingly, it looked pretty convincing! And it also came in handy when Tim became teary-eyed as Mel walked down the aisle.
Words of wisdom.
I found joining wedding and bride-focused Facebook groups incredibly helpful. They were a goldmine of advice, support, and inspiration – from fellow brides who were planning at the same time, to past brides generously sharing their experiences and tips. It was also a great space to ask questions or get outside opinions when I needed a second (or third!) perspective. Most importantly, try to enjoy the process—it goes by faster than you think!
For more luxe Real Weddings, check out our extensive, inspiration-filled back catalogue here.
MELISSA & TIM’S SUPPLIERS:
Ceremony & reception venue: Whitestone Events
Celebrant/Officiant: Jacklyn Cimino from All About Love Celebrants
Photography: Paul Osta Photography
Videography: Yaya Films
Ceremony & Reception decor: Angels Floral Event
Florist: Bloom’n Kreations (Preserved bouquets & boutonnieres)
Hair & Make-up: Teri Weston Beauty
The dresses: Wedding gown Emily May Bridal / Chinese outfits from Elusana
Rings: All Diamonds
Bridesmaid’s dresses: Billy J
Suits – YSG Tailors
Catering: Big Flavours
Cake: Blue Hummingbird Cakery
Lion dancers: Chinese Youth Society of Melbourne
Honeymoon: Thailand
