Real Wedding – Anthony & Rebecca, Melbourne VIC
Anthony and Rebecca’s wedding unfolds like a stylish dream through the leaf-lined streetscapes and laneways of inner Melbourne. This is a celebration filled with timeless elegance and refined glamour against a backdrop of dramatic tones and beautifully bold detailing.
Rebecca’s gorgeous gown from Raffaele Ciuca bridal is a stunningly unique, strapless vision, combining full-length sleeves and a detailed bodice with flowing skirts and a full train. Threads of shimmering silver and delicate beading create a contemporary effect perfectly offset against a wedding party in striking ebony.
As the newlyweds wind their way through the urban landscape for their portrait session, the magnetic energy between them is captured to perfection by Motta Weddings Photography. A quick stop in a softly lit laneway bar adds to the dramatic effect.
Moody tones of vibrant crimson, deep forest green and rich raisin enhance Alto Event Space, accented with pops of gold and simple onyx candles. We love a day filled with aesthetically impactful moments, and Rebecca and Anthony’s is all that!
The meeting.
We met at our friend’s 21st birthday party 11 years ago. I saw Anthony standing with mutual friends and offered him my drink!
The ‘one’.
There was no particular moment, but instead, a feeling of complete comfort when we are together. Even when we first got together, we just loved being with each other.
The proposal.
Anthony was planning on proposing in Europe, but Covid changed all that, so he popped the question at home on July 18th, our ten year anniversary. He ordered Nobu and, after dinner, got on one knee on our dining room floor. I much preferred this as it was such a special moment for us.
Planning process.
We decided in January to get married in April regardless of Covid. We decided whether it was our planned wedding or just the two of us, we wouldn’t postpone. Luckily, it worked out perfectly.
Style inspiration.
We wanted to keep it simple but different, so we went with a dark and moody colour palette with our florist, and everything else came together from there. We ordered some black tapered candles to match, and the venue tied it all together.
For inspiration, we only used Instagram and saved the images we loved. Most were of styled shoots.
The ceremony.
We got married in Anthony’s family church. We wanted a traditional ceremony surrounded by family and friends. It was perfect.
The look.
I had never given it any thought and had no idea what I wanted, so I went into the store, described the style I thought would suit me, and the stylist returned with four dresses. I chose the first one I tried on – it was the last one I tried on in the end and the perfect fit.
Anthony had a friend who knew where to go for the suits, so he went with his best men and got the first one he tried on. We tried to keep it all easy and stress-free.
Favourite moments.
Definitely seeing each other down the aisle for the first time, our ceremony and kiss. Even after so many years together, there is something amazing about making it official.
Meaning of marriage.
Being there for each other every day, knowing that we’re a team and can get through anything.
Wedding soundtrack.
Aisle: A Thousand Years by Piano Man Sam
Reception entry: Lasting Lover by Sigala and James Arthur
First dance: Aint No Mountain High Enough by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell
Funny stories or near disasters.
Not really, but it started pouring with rain right when our photo session was were wrapping up, so we were actually very lucky. Our photographer said the coming rain made for the perfect photo lighting!
Planning surprises.
How easy it all came together!
Words of wisdom.
Don’t drag out your decisions or fuss over the small details. Go with your gut and what feels right for you. It’s true what they say; the day goes super-fast!
Considering having your dream dress designed and created especially for you? We chat to talented creative Elissa Marie on what you need to know to achieve your vision of a truly gorgeous gown. Get all the tips on the blog, here.
ANTHONY & REBECCA’S VENDORS
Ceremony venue: St John the Baptist Clifton Hill
Reception venue: Alto Event Space. Alto was the first venue we looked at – Caroline was great!
Celebrant/Officiant: Fr Matin Tanti
Photography: Motta Weddings. The first photographer we thought of. Rebecca has known Alex for years. He was amazing and made us super comfortable.
Florist: Lillypad Weddings in Reservoir. Paul and his wife are fantastic. We told them the style and colours we wanted, and they delivered. We had so many compliments on our flowers!
Hair: A girlfriend did my hair!
Make-up: Clara Campbell Makeup Artistry. Also a friend of Rebecca’s, so this was super easy too; she is so creative and professional.
The dress & veil: Raffaele Ciuca Bridal Brunswick
Shoes: Edward Meller
Rings: Kallure Jewellery. Anthony knew Kara through mutual friends. The quality of her jewellery is amazing, and she is such a professional and a pleasure to work with.
Bridesmaid’s dresses: Bianca Spender
Suits: He can’t remember!
Cake: Nikos Cakes – so delicious.
Stationery / Signage: Paperlust. Anthony also knew the owner of Paperlust, so they were the first we went to. Their online site was so easy to use, and Jamie was so great to work with.
Entertainment: DJ Luke Moretti (friend of Anthony)
Transport: Dodge RAM and Chevy Silverado (friends cars)
Honeymoon: Hayman Island and Qualia Resort
