Real Wedding – Kiya & Yann, Robertson NSW
A weekday, post-work proposal inspired Kiya and Yann’s catch phrase ‘good things happen on a Monday’, which naturally translated into choosing a Monday to say ‘I do’.
The pair, who met at a fleeting but memorable work conference, hosted an elegant, mid-autumn garden party with a black-tie dress code that had a distinctly European sensibility.
Their unique, considered ceremony featured a personalised blend of Celtic traditions, a ‘blessing of the ring’ ritual and the unmatched joy and authenticity of including little people on your big day.
At the outdoor reception, classic white linen contrasted with bold florals against a backdrop of enchanting trees and manicured hedges.
Read the pair’s refreshing take on kids at weddings and delight in the understated glamour of their nuptials as captured by Kristie Lee Dickson Photography.
The meeting.
A fleeting but memorable meeting at a work conference in Sydney.
The proposal.
On a seemingly regular Monday after work, Yann staged a pretend bike breakdown and got Kiya to drive to meet him. She found him at a special park with a magnificent view. So started the theme, “good things happen on a Monday”, which inspired our Monday wedding.
Style inspiration.
We wanted an elegant European-inspired affair, where people could wear black tie and gowns and enjoy getting dressed up on a Monday.
The ceremony.
We chose an outside location under beautiful trees on The Robertson Hotel property. We found a celebrant who knew Celtic traditions, which aligned well to our love of history, and she played the Celtic harp as guests took their seats and the bridal party entered. Kiya’s brother shared a poem before we exchanged our own vows, bringing everyone (including ourselves) to tears. We then had a “blessing on the rings” component, which our celebrant introduced us to. Our rings were passed around to guests so they could ‘bless them’ before we exchanged them and made it all official.
Favourite moment.
Kiya: All of it was incredible, but a special part to me was hearing the speeches at the reception, which was done on long tables decorated with gorgeous blooms on the front lawn of The Robertson. We gave people a clear brief that took guests on a bit of a journey from our younger years to key points in our life and relationship. It was incredibly moving.
Yann: Seeing the dance floor full celebrating Kiya’s love of country music. (Kiya: Yeah, that was incredible and very not aligned to our European theme!)
Meaning of marriage.
To both of us, marriage means a commitment to growth, love and patience.
Wedding soundtrack.
Our first dance was to Dance Me To The End of Love covered by The Civil Wars.
Funny stories/ near disasters.
The entire top half of Kiya’s dress was remade within a month of the big day. After a few postpartum “meltdowns” about the original style, she realised it wasn’t her – thankfully, her friend’s mum was able to step in and remake the entire bodice/straps based on a picture inspiration from Pinterest.
Planning surprises.
It really is a lot of work to do without a planner!
Words of wisdom.
Ask for help! And, if you’re a couple reading this with a kid – including our daughter in this day – and asking other guests to bring their kids – made it so authentic and fun. Kids have a way of making ordinary things magical, and on a magical day, it all becomes extraordinary. Even if you don’t have kids, don’t underestimate the joy kids can bring to your wedding.
KIYA & YANN’S SUPPLIERS:
Ceremony and reception venue: The Robertson Hotel
Celebrant: Fiona King
Photography: KLD Photography
Videography: Mitch Hickman Films
Florals & styling: Knot and Beau
Hair: Self-done
Make-up: Bridal Glow Co
The dress: Brides of Sydney I bought a basic strapless gown and luckily my friend’s Mum is a master seamstress, so she remade the bodice and straps for me.
Shoes: A gorgeous Etsy find!
Rings: BB Jewellers
Cake: Alyssa’s Kitchen
Stationery / Signage: Self-made
Honeymoon: Europe
