Chris and Lauren

As a self confessed lover of flowers and everything pretty, I had a very clear picture in mind of what I wanted our wedding day to be. Whilst, my husband wasn’t as excited about flowers, upon visiting Margaret River’s Secret Gardens in the South West of WA, we both knew this would be the place we would be married. And so our wedding adventure, and the idea of a vintage garden party, began. Chris and I first met when we were only four years old. Our mothers took us to the same playgroup. We later went to the same primary school for a few years and then became friends again in high school. Chris was only ever a good friend until he planned a surprise party for my 22nd birthday. We have been together ever since. He proposed on Christmas morning of 2010 with a beautiful ring from Tiffany and Co.

Booking our photographer, Rae Marie Threnoworth, was an easy decision and possibly the best one we made. Rae is originally from Perth but now lives in Dunsborough. I had met Rae previously through a mutual friend and loved her relaxed personality and beautiful style of photography. As a surf lifestyle photographer, Rae was perfect in capturing the beauty of the South West Region.

When the big day arrived, we woke to grey skies and drizzling rain, but just enough to bring good luck and by the time we were ready to leave, the sky was a beautiful blue. I spent the morning with my family and sisters enjoying being pampered. When I saw my reflection in the mirror for the first time I had a real ‘bridal’ moment and this was the only time I felt really teary the whole day. Our make up was done by Lynette Nickell and hair styled by Fiona Locock. Both Fiona and Lynette were wonderful and I could not have asked for better people to work with.

I walked down the aisle with my dad to “This Magic Moment” by The Drifters. It was a perfect choice as it really was a magic moment. Our celebrant, Jen Burrows, was a lovely addition to our day. Her relaxed and warm personality made us feel perfectly at ease. I was a very nervous, and therefore, a very cranky bride-to-be the day before and she helped to calm my nerves. We had a very heartfelt ceremony, which included vows we wrote ourselves. As a special touch, we had three white helium balloons to represent my uncle, nanna and pop who have all passed away.

As flowers were an important part of our garden party wedding, I spent the best part of 12months collecting vintage decanters and jars with the help of my mum and mother in law. Joyce from JVK Floral Designs  was wonderful in making my visions a reality. I had long banquet tables with over 90 small floral arrangements in total. My bouquet and bridesmaid’s bouquets included roses, hydrangeas and hyacinths in a mixture of blues, mauves, pinks and creams.

The reception was a warm and exciting atmosphere with lots of laughter and plenty of dancing. Damon Rollings, our DJ, ensured the dance floor was never empty. We had our first dance as husband and wife to Natalie Cole’s “Everlasting Love”. We wanted something fun, energetic and upbeat. I was so impressed with our cake maker, Carmelo from Edible Art.  It was not only beautiful it was the most delicious cake I have ever eaten! I designed all the invitations, stationery and prints in frames. I have since launched my very own little business Bella Carta Designs.

Chris and I had the most perfect day, surrounded by our closest friends and family. We could not have asked for anything more and will remember our wedding day always.

All images by Rae Marie Threnoworth

Ms Gingham says: What a beautiful story! Imagine meeting your Son In Law’s Mum so many years ago!! Thanks for sharing Lauren!

Lauren says: “My name is Lauren and I am a lover all things pretty and girly. I am obsessed with paper, design (interior, exterior and graphics) and story telling. I was lucky enough to marry my best friend on the 31st of March, 2012. It was a perfect day, filled with love and celebrated with family and friends. I dream of the day I can play pretty things all day long and write fabulous tales!”