Annalies and Simon

With ruby red lips, sparkling ruby slippers, black and white tartan bridesmaids gowns and a surprise of twinkle lights. this enchanting wedding, with plenty of opulent glamour was the most beautiful way for Annalies and Simon to share their vow to marry, with their loved ones.

Annalies recalls how she and Simon came to be. “While we knew of each other in high school, it wasn’t until we met again, 1800 kilometres away in Brisbane that we started dating.”

Photographs today are by Beth Cater Photography. I really loved Beth’s way of capturing the depth and details of the day – her candid moments of Annalies and Simon’s joy, the little details like those ruby red slippers and the breathtaking beauty of Annalies walking down the aisle to her beloved. Playback Films shot a film of the day.

The bride and bridesmaid’s makeup was styled by  Nic Makeup while Catherine Cheesman of Bogarts styled their hair.

The bride’s bouquet, featuring crystals and black feathers along with deep red roses was created by Bloomberry Flowers.

The bridesmaids wore black and white tartan gowns from Alyce Designs via Tj Formal and paired them with ruby red shoes from Schuh. Annalies wore Christian Louboutin heels paired with custom shoe clips from Feathers & Frills.

Of their photographer, Annalies says “Beth was absolutely fantastic.  She immediately recognised that we wanted something a little different for our photos and didn’t try to force us into unnatural situations in order to get her shot.  Beth really captured us as we are, and we are just thrilled with the result.”

Annlies wore a gown by Wendy Makin.

“Oh, also, the bridesmaids surprised me on the day by wearing stockings with different patterns.  They definitely know my preferred aesthetic and I loved it!”

Annalies walked down the aisle to Pachabel’s Canon In D. She remarks ” We wanted to have a traditional ceremony and this felt like the perfect piece to set the tone.” The couple held their wedding ceremony at St Stephen’s Cathedral, Annalies explains “We were married in St Stephens Cathedral which is beautiful, as always, and possibly the only church in Brisbane that could accommodate our gowns!”

Annalies describes the day as “Equal parts lux couture and traditional family affair.”

One of Annalies’ favourite memories is the photographs. “One of my favourite moments was arriving at our photo location to see the festoon lighting strung across the blooming honeysuckle that Simon had organised.  It was absolutely beautiful.”

Annalies and Simon held their reception at The Greek Club, Annalies remarks “Katherine, The Greek Club’s wedding coordinator was an absolute dream to work with.  As a bride who had no concept of what I wanted, Katherine had all of the answers.  She looked after every request and change right up to the event itself so well that it put us both completely at ease.”

Annalies recalls “I discovered that sites like etsy were fantastic for sourcing the kind of things that would normally be handmade – often for less than it would cost to make! – but one thing that we did together was, rather than have a band or DJ, we put together our wedding music into playlists.  We spent a lot of time choosing music for the dinner, dancing and other special points that included songs dear to us and our guests.  It was a huge hit and really made the reception a celebration of us and our loved ones.  Quite a few of the guests commented on it and a few asked for the list!” A three tier black and white cake was created by Cake That!

For their first dance, Annalies says “We danced to ‘Beautiful Girl’ by INXS.  It took us a while to pick a song – we both love music and have very strong opinions!  When we first moved in together, Simon would play this on guitar a lot.  It reminds us of each other while being familiar to most of our guests which were our two requirements.  One of a few Italian customs we included occurred during the bridal waltz where our families wrapped us in ribbons while we danced.”

Blender Design created the table menus, order of service books and engagement invitations. Each of the table settings featured song lyrics that were special to Annalies and Simon.

The reception was full of beautiful memories for the newlyweds, just some of which Annalies lists. “Most of our family and friends had to fly in to attend and seeing how many of them made the trip was really special – having everyone together happens so rarely it was lovely.

My father gave a beautiful and touching speech that I will always remember.  He is a man of few words so seeing him up there in front of everyone made me really proud.

Spending the morning getting ready with my bridesmaids and Mum was incredibly fun.  We nearly forgot what we were there for!

Seeing everyone get involved in the photobooth was fantastic.  It made for a fun night and a very memorable guestbook.

During my hens festivities, my bridesmaids taught us all a traditional Italian tarantella that they had learnt in secret.  We then danced this at the reception.  I had truly amazing bridesmaids – they made the whole planning process an event”

Before we end the tale of Annalies and Simon, I want to share their gorgeous wedding video shot by Playback Films

Congratulations Annalies and Simon! Thank you for sharing your wedding day with us! Thank you also to Beth Cater Photography. for sharing the photographs this afternoon!