
Relaxed, sweet, and effortlessly elegant, Martin and Nicole’s Melbourne Registry Office wedding was the definition of “less is more.” No wedding party, no over-the-top fuss – just a laid-back kind of love that spoke for itself.
Nicole stunned in a strapless Karen Willis Holmes gown, paired with sheer pearl-dotted gloves, a chic neck scarf, and a bold burgundy heel for a little extra flair. Her long-stemmed white roses kept things beautifully pared back. Alongside her, Martin looked equally dapper in a deep green jacket – cool, classic, and completely in step with the day.
After a quick and intimate “I do,” the celebrations continued with dinner at Recoleta, where the gorgeous touches really came to life – you must see the cake, and yes, there was a champagne tower to match. Simple, stylish, and full of heart, beautifully captured by Elsa Campbell Photography.
We had crossed paths growing up over the years at many parties through different friendship circles. We then reconnected again when we both started working for the same business, both already in long-term relationships.
Then, as fate had it, both our relationships ended at a similar time, so it was a nice way to vent and chat about the awkwardness of being newly single. As time went on, it developed into more of a friendship, sharing each other’s weird and funny humour. Funny banter turned into a dinner date, travelling, buying a house, owning a puppy and now eight years later we are married. As our boss said from the beginning, “I knew you two would end up together!”
We had planned a Saturday date night at our favourite Japanese restaurant, which also happened to be our first date spot (although Martin swears he forgot about that and it wasn’t part of the plan!). After getting ready, and me none the wiser, I went to empty the dishwasher before we left. Martin said, “Let’s have a quick drink before heading in.” After some very persistent convincing from Martin to leave the dishwasher alone, the ring – secretly kept in his pocket – appeared as he said, “I wanted to do this first before dinner.”
We were both not fussed about having a big wedding and wanted something intimate. After being engaged for a year, we finally looked at one venue, Recoleta (Spring Street Events), and decided it was perfect for us. Booked a date on the spot with six months to plan.
We were both very laid back and not too fussed on the glitz and glam; we just wanted it to be simple, elegant, and intimate. It wasn’t until we met our amazing stylist, Tania, who did an incredible job taking us on a journey to create the perfect style for our day. She planned everything meticulously, while capturing our essence perfectly.
We wanted something simple with only our nearest and dearest, so we chose the Registry Office in Melbourne, followed by dinner. As my uncle said, “That was the quickest ceremony ever!” – which was exactly how we wanted it. No fuss, just us walking out as husband and wife.
Wedding dress was by Karen Willis Holmes and suit by Calibre.
Our first look was a special moment that was shared just between us. It also helped calm the nerves before walking down the aisle.
The person who will be by your side forever, no matter what, through the good, bad and ugly.
Walked down the aisle to an acoustic version of Everywhere, the cover by Bailey Rushlow.
You will get lots of opinions and suggestions, but do what’s important to you. The day is about celebrating ‘you’ as a couple, and nobody else.
Ceremony venue: Old Treasury Building, Melbourne
Reception venue: Recoleta by Spring St. Events
Photography: Elsa Campbell
Styling: Design Concepts by TMC
Florist: The Road Stall
Hair: Amanda Audrey Hair
Make-up: Makeup by Enrica
Tan: Beauty by Taylah
The dress: KWH Bridal
Shoes: Zara
Rings: Novita Diamonds
Suit and accessories: Calibre
Catering and bar: Spring St Events
Favours: Design Concepts by TMC
Cake: Bakes by Her
Stationery / Signage & decor: Design Concepts by TMC
Honeymoon: Fiji – Marriott at Momi Bay