Real Wedding – Ben & Tess, Palm Beach NSW
We love the relaxed and romantic vibe of Ben and Tess’ celebration in Palm Beach, New South Wales.
From the get-go, this darling duo decided to support local and trusted their supplier dream team implicitly, allowing them to use their talents and guide them through the wedding planning process.
A ceremony set amongst the tress lead the way to an all-white bridal brigade, looking contemporary and chic, before Tess wowed her groom Ben in a two-piece dress Leto Bridal number that stopped us in our tracks.
Making their way to The Boathouse, there was live music, love in the air and a dance floor that rocked all night long. Jason Corroto captured the day in all of its gorgeous glory.
The meeting.
We worked together at my family’s hotel. We have been together about seven years.
The one.
Right away. I fell pregnant after nine months.
The proposal.
We were visiting Ben’s mum and dad who are from Papamoa Beach in New Zealand. They live on the beach, so Ben took me on a surprise drive in a buggy on the beach. He told me stories about him growing up on the beach. Then he popped the question. He then popped Moet and we went for a skinny dip in the rain! We came home to our girls and Ben’s family singing and celebrating.
The planning process.
The planning was very easy (I wanted it as easy as possible because I have kids). I kept it local to save on travel and to support our area. The suppliers I used are so creative so I knew I would love anything they did.
Style inspiration.
I love neutral simplicity. The suppliers I used are so talented that I even said to my stylist, “just do whatever you want”. Anything she touches turns to magic.
The outfit.
I did not go to a shop with a dress in mind as I thought that would limit my options. I have also heard that a bride usually buys the dress they least expect. My outfit was contemporary yet fun. I booked a lot of bridal shops but then my twin sister told me about Leto Bridal, which was only a ten-minute drive away. I thought I should try it before I went to the other shops. I went there with low expectations and in the end, I found it hard choosing a dress as there was too much choice. I then cancelled my other appointments and chose my dress. Leto Bridal was my first and only bridal shop.
Favourite moment.
Watching my little girls Winni Isla and Juni Peaches walk down the aisle to Ben.
Meaning of marriage.
Marriage means everything to us as we are officially a team. We love, trust and live for each other. Leading up to the big day, my girls would always say its “our wedding”. We involved them as much as possible. When we exchanged rings, we also gave the girls a personalised bracelet each. Our family is everything.
Wedding soundtrack.
Aisle: Will Heard and Cara Delevingne Sonnentanz (Sun Don’t Shine) acoustic session.
Our duo, Aniella and Simon sang their own version. This song has a lot of meaning as Winni & Juni Peaches would ask us to play “our wedding song” over and over prior to the wedding.
Signing: Taylor Swift Lover. Aniella and Simon sang this song.
Conclusion of ceremony: Tiki Tanna Always on my Mind. Aniella and Simon sang this song.
Reception entry: You Sexy Thing -Hot Chocolate
First dance: Groovin Slowly – John Butler Trio
Funny stories (or near disasters).
My cousin accidentally tripped me over on the dance floor while my husband and I were dancing in the circle. It was caught on camera and I loved that it was so funny!
Words of wisdom.
Just enjoy the planning of the wedding and always listen to advice.
Do you find NSW weddings a vibe? Eve and Tom’s sublime country celebration is a must see.
BEN AND TESS’ VENDORS
Ceremony venue / location: McKay Reserve Palm Beach
Reception venue / location: Boathouse Palm Beach
Celebrant/Officiant: Clair Belford
Photography: Jason Corroto
Styling: Styled By Her – Corey
Florist: Styled By Her
Hair: Deelsh Hair – Danielle Sainty
Make Up: Aleisha Johnson
The Dress(es): L’eto Bridal
Veil / headwear: L’eto Bridal
Shoes: Loeffler Randall
Rings: Natalie Marie Jewellery
Bridesmaid’s dresses: Bec and Bridge
Groom’s attire: Suit Supply – Styled by “Gentlemen George” Nic George
Catering: Boathouse
Bar: Boathouse
Cake / Cake topper: Cakes by Mandy J – Amanda Jarvie. Cake deco by Styled By Her.
Stationery / Signage: Invitations – Pop Creative. Signage – Styled By Her
Entertainment: Band – Aniella.Simon. DJ – Pinnacle Sound System
Honeymoon: Hamilton Island Yacht Club Villas