Real Wedding – Nicole & Tom, South Melbourne VIC

It wasn’t one moment, but many micro moments of matching each other’s energy that confirmed soul mate status for lovers Nicole and Tom.

After a Paris proposal, Nicole was drawn to the idea of incorporating art-nouveau undertones to their modern, relaxed wedding at Half Acre Melbourne.

Subtle references to the beauty and romance of the city were conveyed through mindful typography choices, colour selections and classy motifs.

Bluebell Bridal was Nicole’s first destination when it came time to decide on her dream outfit. It was there that she fell in love with a corset and skirt set by Prea James, complete with a tulle neck scarf, that made her feel comfortable, confident and positively herself.

True to his talent and photography philosophy, Cam of Anchor and Hope delivered on a wedding album that acts as a portal to the joy and emotion of their big day. Browse on below to be transported.

The meeting.

Our romance started in 2012 upon meeting at a mutual friend’s birthday party.

The ‘one’.

It wasn’t one moment, but many micro-moments of matching each other’s energy; whether it be silly and fun or deep and reflective – the connection was felt pretty soon after spending quality time with one another.

The proposal.

We were going on a big euro trip for a milestone birthday and Tom decided to propose in Paris. Tom had suggested a picnic and picked up supplies along the way and was being very fussy about finding a secluded spot to sit. When we sat down, Tom presented me with a book. Each page represented a different year in our relationship, with a song to match and he was playing the playlist in the background. Until I got to 2023…. that’s when Tom asked me to stand up. Tom had a speech prepared but in the emotion of it all; he didn’t really have any words. Eventually, he asked ‘Will you marry me?’ and I said ‘Yes!’.

Planning process.

The planning process was spaced over many months of collaboration to define the fundamentals and then it was about trusting the suppliers with the vision (which they nailed!). We wanted to lead up to be relaxed, and to have headspace for the things that matter most – the love of family, friends and each other.

Style inspiration.

Having being proposed to in Paris, I loved the idea of incorporating art-nouveau undertones to what at its core was a modern, relaxed style of wedding. I tried to capture the subtle romance of Paris through the font choices, colour scheme and use of motifs in the designs. I researched articles on particular things I needed help with and liked ‘real weddings’ to get a true feel for how the day unfolded for a couple as well!

The ceremony.

The way our story was told was really special – listening back at the reflection of our lives together made us feel proud and excited to be standing in front of everyone professing our love.

The outfits.

I tried to keep it simple with the one outfit. Funnily enough I went to about four wedding boutiques when hunting for the one and I ended up back at the first place, in one of the first gowns I tried on. I think the learning is trust your instincts as I felt the most myself in it. I wore a truly beautiful corset and skirt by Prea James, and added a tulle neck scarf that was designed to be versatile, as the reception started it became more of a shawl. Later in the evening to help my dance moves I changed into pants, still with the corset – which were ones I already owned, as I am a big advocate for re-use.

Favourite moments.

The ceremony, by far! Such a special moment for both of us, we really felt the love in the room. We all laughed and cried together throughout and it was just a really beautiful connection to have had with everyone who attended.

Meaning of marriage.

For us it’s the act of making a formal commitment to each other, growth and a life together. Expressing our love for one another in front of our favourite people.

Wedding soundtrack.

Aisle: All You Need Is Love – The Beatles – Covered live by Champagne Electric
Reception Entry: Got to be Real – Cheryl Lynn
First Dance: You’re The One That I Want – Mack Myles

Funny stories or near disasters.

Tom’s vows and speech were soaked with water and ruined with a spilt drink on the way to the ceremony. They were salvaged somewhat, but mostly smudged. Luckily his speech off the cuff was authentic and quite funny – so only a near disaster.

Words of wisdom.

Everyone says it but there’s no rules, do what feels right for you as a couple and stay true to your intentions for the day – then you can’t go wrong.

For more Victorian venue inspiration, browse our catalogue of real weddings. 

NICOLE & TOM’S SUPPLIERS:

Ceremony & reception venue: Half Acre 

Celebrant: Zena Lythgo – Zena has a magic touch with her words. She really brought our story to life which was beautiful to witness. She was incredibly collaborative and supportive throughout the whole process, which put our mind at ease, and created such a warm and loving ceremony atmosphere.

Photography: Anchor and Hope Photography – From the initial consultation to the wedding day Cam was professional, attentive, and made us feel at ease. The photos are stunning, capturing every emotion and moment perfectly. He’s a true expert at his craft and we feel so lucky he captured our wedding in a way that was true to us and the day itself.

Florist:  Rose Studios – Emily is a creative genius. She’s not only spectacularly talented, but a dream to work with. I had full trust in her creative direction throughout the process of planning my wedding and she over delivered – from the bouquets, table arrangements to the ceremony florals, everything was perfect and I can’t thank her enough.

Hair: Absolu Hair – Kara is a true professional – incredibly skilled and no ask is too much. She makes you feel so comfortable in the process and she absolutely nailed every brief (Bridesmaids, Bride and MoB) the morning of the wedding!

Make-up: Holly Davies MUA – Holly is the best in the business – she did truly magnificent work and puts equal time, energy and craftmanship into every face she does. She made us all feel amazing, and was a joy to have with us on the morning.

The dress – Prea James Gown from Bluebell Bridal – The team at Bluebell Bridal are incredibly supportive and friendly. Every interaction I had with them was so warm, and they go over and above to guide you on your gown journey, you can tell they really love what they do.

Shoes: Tony Bianco (Nicole) and Julius Marlow (Tom)

Rings: HLSK (Nicole) Michael Hill (Tom)

Tuxedo: Institchu

Bow ties: Anthony Squires

Favours: Personalised angel pins by Kelly McMahon Design

Cake: Rosehill Bakes – Nick is a joy – incredible customer service and so passionate about his business. I love supporting small businesses for this exact reason. Everyone raved about our cake, which was a Lemon and Olive Oil flavour (outstanding!). He puts love into every bite.

Stationery / Signage:  Kelly McMahon Design

Entertainment: Live Music via Champagne Electric– Not only are Champagne Electric immensely talented (voice of an angel!), but they are also a dream to work with too. Jacinta is so responsive and helpful it made the whole process ridiculously easy. They created such a warm and welcoming atmosphere at our wedding and we are forever grateful. And DJ – Brennan Zygraich

Honeymoon: Maldives