Nikki & Michael

It was the most golden of Autumn days when Nikki and Michael tied the knot. The bride, in the most stunning long-sleeve gown, carried a bouquet of stunning autumn blooms while her groom, Michael dressed in dapper black accompanied her as the pair celebrated a day at the beautifully historic Tasmanian venue Entally House. We’re so delighted that both Nikki and Michael are sharing their story, a captured beautifully by Susannah Johnson Photography today.

Friends first, it was a road trip that led these two to realise there was something more in store for them. Michael planning well in advance to pop the question on a  holiday to England. Nikki fills us in on how it all played out. “Michael, the wonderful man, had been planning to propose to me for quite a while. He secretly had asked my Dad for permission and swore him to secrecy months out.

We were on a trip to England and for the first week, we were touring London’s city. It was an amazing experience seeing all the sites! Especially where royalty lives, lots of security there – so much so that we couldn’t see a lot of the gardens! Every time we got blocked from seeing a garden, Michael would get quite cranky. I thought this was because he just wanted to see another side of the castles. At the time, I didn’t know what he was trying to plan.

Our second last night in London, we went on a cruise on the River Thames. The boat was one of those popular two-story riverboats, in between first course and mains Michael asked me to climb to the top to look at the view. Just as we passed under the Tower Bridge, Michael pointed at something over the back of my shoulder, I turned to look at the stunning city lit up and when I turned back to face him, Michael was on one knee asking me to be his wife! With the lit up Tower Bridge in the background, I immediately said yes. After, we were talking about how he pulled this off and he confessed he wanted to ask me at the Gardens of Windsor but we were blocked by security, and at every garden thereafter! I think proposing on that cruise was perfect.”

That stunning gown? It was created by Timeless Elegance. Nikki telling “I chose a simple wedding dress, no lace or beading with a classic boat neckline and long sleeves. I had a total of 300 buttons located from the top to the end of the train and on my sleeves. I absolutely adored my dress! It is one of a kind as it was designed and made by the wonderful team at Timeless Elegance – a Tasmanian bridal boutique owned and operated by the talented Louise Scott.”

There were beautiful sentimental touches too. “I (Nikki) was honoured with being able to borrow Michael’s Grandma Joy’s pearls for the day. It was really special that they were gifted to me for the day.”

Nikki and Michael chose the historic venue of Entally House for their wedding “The location is stunning! Plus, the team are phenomenal! Entally Estate was amazing at helping keep the day on track and planning the day.”

Both Nikki and Michael walked down the aisle with both of their parents. The tune? An acoustic version of Elvis Presley’s “Can’t Help Falling In Love With You”.

The ceremony, officiated by Bishop Joe Rogers was very family orientated, explains Nikki “We had Rose and Steve, Michael’s parents give a talk and a wedding blessing. The rest of the ceremony consisted of vows we had chosen and the official vows. When creating our ceremony, Michael and I chose traditions from a variety of cultures to reflect our diverse culture. We had a groom and groomsmen procession, as well as the bride and bridesmaid progression. We also said a version of Celtic vows that articulated our dedication and vow to one another.”

Guests were asked to take a moment of silence during the ceremony in honour of the couple’s loved ones who had passed.

Nikki and Michael had plenty of people to include in their day. “We had a large wedding party as we have a a close knit group of friends and family” they explain. “On Nikki’s side there was Jayne as the Maid of Honour, Phiona (sister-in-law) Hannah (cousin), Carla, Jess (sister-in-law), and Joscelyn. On Michael’s side, there was Liam, Christopher (brother), Jason (brother-in-law), Elijah, Osi, and Stephen. We also had four ushers: Brady, Joshua, Robert and David. We also had a very close friend of ours act as an unofficial flower girl, Candice.”

Michael and his groomsmen wore classic suits from Les Lees as a “Classic winter wedding look”. Michael wore a tie made of fabric from the bride’s gown.

Nikki and Michael adored their photographer, telling “Susannah is an absolute champion! Not only is she exceptionally talented but she is patient and firm, understanding about the demands on our persons but was so good at manoeuvring us to get the best photos (mostly Nikki, she just kept wanting to chat to people). I highly recommend Susannah. She is incredible.”

The beautiful blooms, styled by Adorn Event Styling were in deep and rich Autumnal hues, tells the bride “We didn’t have a flower directive, just a colour palette. Our flowers were chosen based on seasonal availability and within the colour palette. Kate at Adorn Styling did a phenomenal job.”

And once the sunset, it was time for a grand sit down feast, just what the newlyweds had dreamt of. “We didn’t have a set theme – we just wanted lots of flowers, simple but elegant styling and our favourite colour green featured. The atmosphere we were aiming for was one giant family dinner.”

Michael chose the first dance song, he remembers “I  chose the song “Love Someone” by Lucas Graham. Our first dance was a wonderful moment to take a beat and just hold each other.”

Nikki and Michael have one last story to share – their beautiful wedding day film captured by Christian Benton.

A big congratulations to you both Nikki and Michael! We loved sharing your beautiful wedding day stories. Thank you also to Susannah Johnson Photography for sharing today’s beautiful images!