Real Wedding – Apryl & Raymond, South Yarra VIC
Apryl and Raymond’s day began with a nod to their Malaysian heritage where Apryl wore a stunning Carla Zampatti gown that was modern yet still captured the essence and meaning behind their tea ceremony.
Making their way to the Royal Botanic Gardens for their ceremony and reception, Apryl had a quick outfit change, donning an exquisite Alex Perry number, rounded off with a silk organza blouse from Harriet Gordon; both supplied by the one and only, Bluebell Bridal boutique in Melbourne.
With the lush green backdrop provided by the gardens, they worked alongside the brilliant Agi from Whole Lotta Love Creative and decided to keep the styling elements simple with white florals and a few very delicate hints of lilac. They ended the evening with an intimate dinner under the stars for their reception, nailing their brief of evoking a timeless and romantic atmosphere.
Their love filled day was all caught on camera by Ivory Tribe favourite, Adrian from La Moment Photography, scroll on to see this gorgeous day unfold.
The meeting.
We met 5 years ago through mutual friends.
The ‘one’.
I don’t know that we both had a ‘moment’ that we knew. It’s all the little things that add up when you’re dating that make you realise you want to have a forever future together. Sharing the same values, being 110% supportive of each other and mutually understanding that you are a team for life and this is what you share with each other and no one else makes you realise that they are ‘the one’.
The proposal.
During lockdown on our 5th anniversary, Ray set up a romantic indoor picnic in the house we had just bought together. With delish Jap food; it was so intimate and cosy.
Planning process.
We planned our wedding in about 4 months + navigating covid at the time so there wasn’t too much time for research to be honest.
Style inspiration.
We both wanted an outdoor wedding that was small and cosy. ‘Modern Tuscan’ was the vibe and we had initially wanted to host this at a private venue but couldn’t due to covid restrictions at the time. We wanted something romantic, timeless yet modern.
We found a lot of Inspiration through real weddings mainly.
The ceremony.
It was set outdoors in the Botanic gardens within the greenery during sunset. The setting and weather was perfect – we couldn’t have asked for a better day.
The look.
We had a tea ceremony earlier in the day and I wore a red Carla Zampatti dress. It wasn’t the traditional Cheong Sam that’s normally worn as I wanted something more modern but still a nod to tradition. It had a high neck and long cape sleeves.
The bridal dress was an Alex Perry dress layered with a Harriet Gordon blouse over the top for the ceremony that were both from Bluebell Bridal. This was the first place I went dress shopping and had other appointments but the day I went (late in the afternoon), lockdown was announced for that evening. Luckily I found something that I loved there and placed the order because that lockdown ended up lasting a few months.
Ray wore a navy 3-piece suit with a cream tie.
Favourite moments.
Our tea ceremony at the beginning of the day was really special. We were both hesitant and nervous to do it during our planning stages but were so glad we did. It was a special family moment with our parents and grandparents (who zoomed in) and turned out so intimate and a really nice ode to tradition.
Meaning of marriage.
A lifetime of commitment and faithfulness through thick and thin – to love and cherish each other and our future family.
Wedding soundtrack.
Aisle: You are the reason by Callum Scott
Planning surprises.
Covid restrictions meant that we weren’t able to host at a private property (which was outdoor and larger than the location we ended up using. Otherwise everything was surprisingly smooth sailing.
Words of wisdom.
When you plan all the different aspects of your wedding and things/opinions get overwhelming, remember at the end of the day that this is a celebration of YOU. Make it the celebration you always wanted and that you can look back on with utmost joy!
For more stunning dresses, just like Apryl’s, check out some of the range from Bluebell Bridal here.
APRYL & RAY’S VENDORS
The entire team on the day were spectacular! So helpful while we were attempting to change venue and date and running the entire day was absolutely seamless.
Ceremony and Reception venue: Royal Botanic Gardens
Officiant: Ps John Hyunh
Photography: La Moment Photography – Adrian Juric
Videography: Duuet weddings
Styling: Whole lotta love creative – Agi Gyenes
Florist: Flora by Teleah
Hair: The Future Mrs – Caitlin Kenzie
Make Up: Suzy Sela
The Dress(es): Tea ceremony dress: Carla Zampatti
Ceremony dress: Alex Perry & Harriet Gordon from Bluebell Bridal.
Veil / headwear: Veils of Melbourne
Shoes: Jimmy Choo
Rings: Brilliant Earth
Bridesmaid’s dresses: ASOS
Favors: Etsy
Cake / Cake topper: Miss Ladybird Cakes
Entertainment: Marcus Miller Music – absolutely wowed the guests with live music essentially the entire ceremony and reception! We had so many people ask us who he was for their own weddings.
Décor: (by stylist and florist)