Real Wedding – Meg & Luke, Ballarat VIC

September 25, 2022 In Latest Posts, Pink, Real Weddings, Victoria By Ivory Tribe

Real Wedding – Meg & Luke, Ballarat VIC

Timeless romance among the trees, chic, classic styling and relaxed, light-hearted fun were the flavour of the day for Meg and Luke’s gorgeous celebration. Willow and Stone Estate provided the perfect contrast of lush, leafy setting and elegant tradition to frame the festivities in style.

Celebrant legend Megan Thompson’s ceremony set the tone for the evening, a blend of relaxed romance, fun and laughter that felt totally authentic to the new Mr and Mrs. Meg’s exquisite gown created the wow factor, reflected back in Luke’s glowing grin. We love that these two couldn’t take their eyes off each other throughout the ceremony – the look of love never gets old!

Tones of soft tangerine, deep forest greens and creamy vanilla carried the styling theme into the reception, offset with clean black lines to elevate the look. As the guests kicked back in the sumptuous space, the vibes stepped up a notch, all thanks to music maker extraordinaires, Hey Jack.

But for us, it’s the moments between Meg and Luke, sharing a bubbles during their portrait session while bathed in the softest light, that took our breath away. Photographer Bianca Virtue has captured every sweet moment to perfection. To share in the love, scroll on.

The meeting.

At a house party through mutual friends about ten years ago. We started out as friends, and our relationship grew from there.

The ‘one’.

Luke says he knew when he saw how well I got along with his parents and his brother.

For me, while I can’t pinpoint an exact moment, our relationship felt easy and comfortable early on, and I didn’t ever want to be without him.

The proposal.

On a quiet beach in Apollo Bay over the Easter long weekend. We’d gone down for a day trip and lunch with our dogs in toe – it was totally unexpected and absolutely perfect.

Planning process.

I found it really enjoyable and relatively easy, if I’m honest. I’m used to planning events for work, so it wasn’t too overwhelming, and I liked researching anything and everything wedding related in my spare time.

Real Weddings were my go-to in the beginning to be able to determine and articulate the style we wanted for the day.

Style inspiration.

Classic, timeless, romantic but nothing too over the top. The most important thing for us was that everyone had a great time.

We really wanted an outdoor wedding where everything was within a few steps; Willow and Stone did not disappoint with their beautiful manicured green gardens and purpose-built spaces.

The ceremony.

A big celebration of love with our nearest and dearest with us to enjoy it. Our ceremony was authentically us – relaxed and fun.

The outfit.

Jane Hill was the first bridal shop I set foot in. I knew I loved the structure and classic style of their heritage range; however, if I’m honest, I probably wouldn’t have tried on my dress if it wasn’t for the stylist selecting it. Sutton, the gown I chose, was the sleek, classic and timeless style that I knew I wanted, with a little uniqueness with the twisted back and silk buttons down the skirt. I felt really comfortable and like myself when wearing it. I shopped around a little bit to humour myself but came straight back and instantly purchased it.

My second dress was a very last-minute decision. During the final alterations on my Jane Hill gown, the long train felt quite heavy when bustled up, and I really wanted to be able to dance the night away. I had seen Christie Nicole Bridal’s Rhiannon mini dress online and noticed they did rentals, so I quickly reached out the week before the wedding to secure it for the dancefloor!

Favourite moments.

It’s cliché, but I loved every moment of our day, from start to finish. I loved our ceremony and the way Megan made it uniquely about us and our life. The speeches were also definitely a huge highlight with so many special moments; there wasn’t a dry eye in the room.

Meaning of marriage.

Solidifying our commitment to each other, respecting each other, and working together as a team through all of life’s adventures.

Wedding soundtrack.

Aisle: Can’t Help Falling In Love by Elvis

Signing: Bloom by The Paper Kites

First dance: Stand By Me by Ben E King

All were performed live.

Funny stories or near disasters.

We both, along with about 80% of our guest list, contracted COVID a few weeks prior to the wedding, thanks to Luke’s Bucks party and my sister’s 30^th Birthday.

Planning surprises.

None, really. All of our suppliers and vendors were incredibly lovely and accommodating. Planning a wedding during COVID lockdowns had its challenges, but we were lucky we could rely on their support in the lead-up and feel incredibly grateful that our perfect day was able to go ahead without a hitch.

Words of wisdom.

It’s easy to get caught up in the pressures and expectations and fall down a rabbit hole when planning a wedding. Absolutely do not compromise on the non-negotiables and pieces that mean the most to you, but don’t get too caught up in the small things. Be sure to take a quiet moment on the night, just the two of you, to step back and view the celebration you created together from afar – the day really does go by so quickly!

For Meg and Luke, choosing an A+ team of vendors meant they felt super supported in their wedding planning journey. Jump onto our directory and get booking to surround yourself with the best in the business – then pour yourself a champagne and kick back, knowing you’re in the safest of hands!

MEG & LUKE’S VENDORS

Ceremony & reception venue: Willow & Stone Estate, Golden Point, Ballarat (Ceremony on the lawns, reception in the marquee)

Celebrant: Megan Thompson

Photography: Bianca Virtue Weddings

Videography: Annette & Dani Films

Styling & florist: Elderberry Events

Hair & make-up: Shiloh Henderson Makeup & Hair

The dresses: ceremony- Jane Hill Bridal, reception – Christie Nicole Bridal

Veil: Jane Hill Bridal

Shoes: ceremony – Badgley Mischka, reception – Naked Vice

Rings: Duffs Jewellers

Bridesmaid’s dresses: Shona Joy