Real Wedding – Frances & Nick, Red Hill VIC
Keeping in step with their own personalities, the vibe of Frances and Nick’s romantic Red Hill day was classic and simple. A traditional Greek Orthodox ceremony made way for their elegant Port Phillip Estate celebration that followed and effortless elegance was to be found at every turn.
A simple display of classic green and white florals, a modern gown and a chic, monochromatic-clad bridal party, all combined to let the couple’s venue shine and their love remain the focal point.
Frances and Nick had Blossom Daisy Creative at the helm to document their day, and their story unfolds here…
In Frances’s words…
The meeting.
We met in 2015. I was attending a birthday at Nick’s bar-restaurant.
The ‘one’.
I don’t think either of us had a specific ‘moment’, but after living together and travelling together we didn’t want the journey to end!
The proposal.
Nick proposed at one of our favourite wineries in Red Hill. Under the illusion we were going for Sunday lunch together, it’s safe to say I was very surprised when he dropped to one knee among the vines and asked me to marry him!
The planning.
The planning process was quite easy for us as we had a clear idea of what we wanted. First, we booked the venue and then worked backwards booking everything else. We had 18 months from the time we got engaged to our wedding day so didn’t feel pressured.
Style inspiration.
Simple and classic, keeping in character with who we both are.
The outfits.
I was quite set on what I wanted; a simple dress that fitted well and was very true to my style. I had a look online and booked an appointment at Suzanne Harward. Taking my best friend with me, it was the first dress I put on and we both knew it was the one!
Favourite moments.
My favourite moment of the day was leaving the church with Nick in my dad’s old Fiat and being able to debrief just the two of us.
The meaning of marriage.
Making a commitment to your best friend and starting the rest of your lives together as soon as possible.
Wedding soundtrack.
Aisle: In a traditional Greek Orthodox ceremony there isn’t music played when walking down the aisle.
First dance: Without You by Usher (accapella acoustic version)
Funny stories (or near disaster).
Nick’s dad got lost on the way to the ceremony and had to be collected by an uncle. Other than that, everything went smoothly!
Words of wisdom.
Ensure that you and your partner are on the same page and plan something that represents both of you.
Last words.
Don’t settle for second best, if something isn’t quite right, keep looking. As everyone says, the day goes so incredibly quickly so it’s important to find little moments to enjoy with your partner.
FRANCES & NICK’S TRIBE
Ceremony venue / location: Greek Orthodox Monastery of Panagia Kamariani. A beautiful cute little Greek Church tucked away in Red Hill
Reception venue / location: Port Phillip Estate, Red Hill. Amazing communication and organisation. The attention to detail was second to none. They exceeded all of our expectations and cannot thank them enough for making our day so special and effortless.
Photography: Cassandra Catic from Blossom Daisy Creative. Cass was so warm and friendly, she understood exactly what we wanted. She was very professional and helped us relax – we didn’t even notice the camera was on us.
Florist: Mel Osbourne from Little Gem Flowers. Mel was a delight to work with! She understood immediately what I wanted for the day and we appreciated how calm and easy she was to communicate with.
Hair: Georgia from Runway Room, Sorrento
Make-up: Megan from Runway Room, Sorrento. The girls from Runway Room were fantastic! They were so relaxed and understood us all so well, it was such a pleasure to work with them.
The Dress(es): Suzanne Harward. Carly from Suzanne Harward made the whole process seamless and was a dream to work with!
Veil / headwear: Suzanne Harward
Shoes: Senso
Rings: My engagement ring and Nick’s wedding band were made by Christo from Xristo Designs. My wedding band is from Georg Jensen.
Bridesmaid’s dresses: Bec and Bridge
Menswear: Formal Red, Fitzroy.
Catering and bar: Port Phillip Estate.
Cake / Cake topper: Miss Penny Cakes and topper by Little Gem Flowers.
Transport: Crown Buses for our guests
Honeymoon: Egypt and Mauritius. We had the most amazing time, the highlights being the pyramids and Valley of the Queens – incredible!
