The Byron Bay Issue is all about celebrating in a beautiful, relaxed style. It’s about making the most of the outdoors, of Mother Nature and warm balmy days. Today’s Italian long lunch inspired editorial, is set right in the Byron Bay hinterland, overlooking the Nightcap Range Mountains, at SummerHills Retreat.

Dreamt up by photographer Emily of Poppy & Sage Photography, who also captured every detail, a long wooden table surrounded by white bentwood chairs from Scenic Rim Wedding Hire who also worked on the event design for the shoot, became the focal point set in the property’s own macadamia orchard. The table topped with fresh white crockery, bowls of fresh tomatoes still on the vine, lemons, platters full of fresh corn, charcuterie, olives and breads by Conk & Co lemon adorned stationery by MVP Design and brightly toned floral arrangements, dotted in white vessels styled by Le Sans Souci. Florist Nadia inspired by the Italian landscape – including the very European flora and foliage of red poppies, blue cornflowers, & delicate grasses alongside green poppy seed pods and burned orange/rusty-coloured paper daisies and a special, locally grown burnt red rose from west of Brisbane. The table setting competed with handcrafted ceramics from artisan Two Warm Hands.

Ceramicist Miya explaining, of the team’s vision “Our warm colour palette was inspired by quintessential Italian summer: citrus orange, lemon yellow, lime green, grapefruit red & pomegranate red – as well as playful pops of pink to accent” she tells of the warm summer shades, adding “We embraced rich colour, as well as texture, with key elements, such as whimsical floristry & bespoke artisan stoneware.”

Our wedding ceremony, conducted by Ceremonies by Leisa overlooked a fresh greenery natural backdrop, our newlyweds walking back down the aisle as “just married” on vintage carpets from Wandering Folk.

Our wedding party, starring Hannah Sisson, Demi Groot & Dylan Irvine wore specially made pieces- gowns handcrafted by Sew Master Fashions, and a suit from Peter Jacksons. Tones of steel grey and orange popping against classic bridal white and elegant navy shades. Hairpieces from

Wendy Louise Designs adding a little touch of sparkle. Hair and makeup artist Ava Belle creating timeless hair and makeup look with a loosely swept up-do and soft beachy waves.
And then, because with every good wedding comes dessert, starting with a classic Italian lemon tart, a rustic caramel cake with hot caramel sauce reminiscent of Nonna’s own homestyle cooking. Cake House also created a tiered masterpiece in tones of antique dusty rose, coral orange and sugar lemons – reminiscent of Italian terrazzo and the texture of linen – utter Italian style! Each bite enjoyed alongside beautifully designed (all organic and plant-based, so Byron!) icecream treats from Knox & Aya.

This was a shoot that embraced Italy, as much as its Byron home. That was the mood we’ve been referencing all month long. The colour combination, the elements, all a fresh take that speak of celebration, utter warmth and plenty of welcoming style. Which detail will you steal?