Just a month ago I talked about how plenty of us were in lockdown, and now, a month on, most of us are enjoying the first tastes of freedom in a very long time. It has been, again, the weirdest of the years. But now, there seems to be sunshine, hope and a little joy on the horizon. And let’s be honest, all of that is wrapped up in the wedding season ahead of us. Because this one is sure to be amazing.

We decided then, that the best way to end off the year, would be in true celebratory style, so this week, we kicked off  The Gold Issue. Settle in, and catch up with us on the month that was.

On Polka Dot You

Taylor and Silva share the story of their gorgeous garden wedding

The sun-drenched winery wedding of Alexander & Alexandra

Haylee & Danny’s wedding by the water

Despite lockdowns, Bianca and Jarrod’s Mitchelton Winery wedding turned out perfectly

Step back in time: A look at some of the South Australian love stories we’ve shared

On Polka Dot Wisdom

Wearable florals for your wedding day

An elegant South Australian wedding editorial

Do you need diamonds on your wedding band?

Bride Racquela shares her love letter to COVID couples

The spots South Australian photographers love for wedding photographs

How to proofread your invitations

A touch of gold- Victoria Whitelaw shares all the styling tips to add gold to your wedding

Iridescent opals: The perfect wedding party gift

On Polka Dot Made

Going on a picnic? Whip up this smash of a cocktail

Make your rustic polaroid station with this tutorial

Our lemon myrtle sour cocktail recipe

Dried floral centrepieces are ways, see how!

On Polka Dot Honeymoons

Eight Adelaide hotels perfect for your wedding night.

Five fun activities for your South Australian honeymoon

Institchu, everyone’s destination for a beautifully custom-tailored suit have news! They’re opening their second Perth showroom, which means there are now 13 instore destinations for this team. let alone the worldwide access of their online store! Located in Claremont Quarter. The showroom is now open for wedding party appointments, check them out here.

Did you catch our feature on Aussie jewellery label S-kin Studio earlier this week? Well, the exciting part of the story is that their Richmond store has now opened! You can now shop in-store for all your sparkly jewels at Level 4, 84 Cubitt St, Cremorne (Call Hallway Intercom to access Level 4 ).

Next on the diamond train this month is Hardy Brothers. The much loved and esteemed jewellery brand are opening their Sydney flagship store in December and want you to know all about it.  Their brand new store has all the brand’s signature experiences you’ve come to know and love, in utter style.  It’s going to be a busy time for this team as they launch their “Trilogies” holiday collection at the same time. One to watch!

Speaking of all those sparkling jewels, have you ever wondered how you’re going to keep them clean? Enter brand new Aussie product Ring Paradise.  This little pen, vegan friendly and cruelty-free will have your gemstones sparkling in no time. Plus? You can easily carry it in your handbag or keep it in a desk drawer. It even protects your ring as you clean it! Buy yours here.

Now, let’s tell you about all the venue news of the month. First up, the opening of NSW South Coast venue Greyleigh. Greyleigh, just three hours from Sydney is set deep into the countryside, the venue has its own 200 acres to play with. There is accommodation on-site, as well as incredible spaces just the ticket for a wedding. We’re particularly in love with “The Orchard” which allows celebrations amongst the property’s orchard of beautiful fruit trees. Check this one out here.

For something a little more urban, you’re going to want to meet the new Melbourne venue, Sophia. The space was formerly David Bromley’s studio and home is located in Prahran. Hosting up to 100 guests in The Ballroom and 180 in The Gallery, it still retains many of its period features, like beautiful arch windows, and chandeliers all in stunning vintage style.  Check it out here,

And finally, with Melbourne opening up its doors (finally!) events and fun are back! And for lovers of fashion,  have we got the event for you. “Unveiling The Atelier” takes you behind the scenes of designer Antoinette Fusillo. The event is part of Melbourne Fashion Week 2021 and will show off all the beauty of Antoniette’s work, including her sketches, LIVE within the very walls where she creates her stunning wedding and evening gowns. It’s free! Get your tickets here.

header photo by Kirsten Cunningham Photography via Alexandra & Alexander’s Sweet Sun-drenched Borrodell Vineyard Wedding