White orchids, chocolate bridesmaid gowns and a heritage paper mill ceremony
Jarrah and James may not call Geelong home, but the moment they discovered Provenance Wines, they knew it was where they wanted to say “I do” – and it’s easy to see why.
Dreaming of a celebration that felt classic, timeless and minimalist, they found the perfect backdrop in the venue’s heritage paper mill setting. Their ceremony unfolded in the Grand Hall, where candlelight, cascading white florals and soft draping created a romantic atmosphere filled with laughter and plenty of love.
Jarrah looked stunning in a strapless Jane Hill gown, carrying a bouquet of elegant orchids, while James cut a dapper figure in a custom black suit.
For this couple, one of the highlights of the planning journey was the incredible team of vendors who brought their vision to life. Trusting their chosen professionals to work their magic allowed them to enjoy the process and soak up every moment of the day itself.
And when it came time to celebrate? There was no doubt this crowd was ready for a party, with Hey Jack keeping the dance floor packed and Ryal Sormaz capturing every unforgettable moment behind the lens.
The meeting.
A house party – the man followed me around like a puppy dog, telling me he thought I was the most beautiful girl in the world. I obviously thought he wasn’t too bad either.
The one.
A quiet date night in COVID. I looked across the room and knew I couldn’t see myself with anyone else. I knew then I was in, hook, line and sinker!
The proposal.
We were in Europe, specifically Venice. James and I had the most incredible day eating all the pizza and pasta. He hired a beautiful private balcony on the water surrounded by gondolas, and he got down on one knee.
Planning process.
James is Type A, although indecisive. Jarrah is more Type B, but definitely the more decisive one. James would initiate all the wedding tasks and bookings, but Jarrah would naturally take over and be the decision maker, finalising the bookings.
Style inspiration.
Classic, timeless, minimalistic.
The ceremony.
It was in the Grand Hall of the heritage paper mill.
It was everything we had envisioned and worked so hard for. I don’t think I’ve ever had everyone I love together in one place at one time – and for it to be the place where we said “I do”. Honestly, how could anything ever compete with that?
The outfits.
From the second I was engaged, I was scanning the internet for the perfect gown. I found Jane Hill, a brand that has been around for years. Their dresses did not have too many distractions and were just about beautiful simplicity. I tried on two dresses and knew immediately.
James’s suit was custom-made by Hemant at the Suit Concierge in Richmond. James felt like Hemant really listened to him and brought his vision to life.
Favourite moment.
Saying “I do” and being able to call James my husband!
Wedding soundtrack.
Aisle: Dream Catch Me – Sonney Tenet
Entrance: Be My Lover – La Bouche
First dance: Inner Bloom – Rufus Du Sol
Farewell song: Like An Animal – Rufus Du Sol
Funny stories (or near disasters.
Please ask our wedding coordinator, Candice, about the snake….. ha!
Planning surprises.
I didn’t expect to have so much support from all my vendors; they were honestly amazing. The way they all collaborated and wanted to make my life so much easier really surprised me. I was so blessed to have such incredible people and businesses supporting me.
Words of wisdom.
Listen to your venue’s recommendations for vendors! I did, and as stated, it was a breeze.
Final words.
Provenance Wines and my vendors honestly contributed to the best day of our lives, and I feel like I am forever in their debt. The food was insane, and the staff – from Candice to the waiters and bar staff – are honestly incredible.
Jarrah and James’ Vendors
Ceremony and reception venue: Provenance Wines
Celebrant: Amanda Saliba – we won Amanda through an Instagram competition, and I would recommend her to anyone. We literally felt as if we hit Powerball. She was so professional, and she just got us from the start. The vibes were high, and we loved her so much
Photography: Ryal Sormaz – ARE YOU KIDDING! This man got a special mention from literally every guest. I had other vendors, grandparents and James’ tradie mates approaching us asking where we found this King. The vibes and level of comfort he brought to the event were amazing. I have never seen so many people wanting photos
Videography: TW Films– Similar to Ryal, Torres killed it! We were so impressed. The way that TW and Ryal collaborated was ridiculous. James and I could not believe the dream team they were. They obviously had worked together multiple times before and we could not believe they were not in business together.
Florist: Posie Place– Rachelle listened to me so perfectly. The brief was orchids (black and white) and boy did she deliver. I really let her run her own race, I trusted her craft and I believe it paid off. Two days before the wedding she rang me and expressed she was concerned with the ceremony space and the fear of the space looking a little bare with only one flower pillar. She miraculously pulled some draping from her warehouse, threw it together, and voila! Perfection.
Hair: Gloss & Glow– Kira was a literal icon. She was beyond patient with me and really listened to my vision. The way she listened to MOB and MOG was incredible. So professional.
Make-up: Montanna Yates – similar to Kira, Montanna was phenomenal. This girl is in the right industry, its obvious she is doing what she loves. She was receptive to all my points and all my bridesmaids points. Another dream team may I add! These girls work together a lot and it made the getting ready process so fun and memorable. They had us laughing all morning and couldn’t get us to shut up when putting lipstick on. They were both icons and so fabulous. I hope I get to get ready with them again because they honestly both felt like my favourite girlfriends.
The dress: Jane Hill Bridal
Veil & bridesmaid dresses: Grace Loves Lace
Shoes: Billini
Rings: Dwayne Designs
Suits: The Suit Concierge
Catering and bar: Provenance Wines
Favours: Stevie Cookie Co – literally the best cookies in the business. This powerhouse is so creative, and the cookies don’t just taste amazing, they also look insane 10/10- no notes.
Cake: Giggles Bakery
Stationery / Signage: Dillon Details
Entertainment: Hey Jack
Transport: GT Limousines & Wedding Jaguars of Geelong. Trevor swooped in and saved the day three weeks out from the wedding. My transport had sadly cancelled and Trevor saved the day. Couldn’t thank him enough
Décor: Dillon Details
Honeymoon: Philippines
