Catherine’s one piece of advice? “Don’t get married in a pandemic” and while we can’t disagree that a pandemic makes everything harder, for Catherine and Valentino, there is no doubt in my mind that their day was utter perfection.

Visualtales Weddings captured their day that made the most of Melbourne’s beauty. From a traditional Greek orthodox ceremony, to wandering through the city streets, to an intimate reception overlooking the sparkling lights of the CBD. It is well deserving of all the black tie glamour it holds and the way these two melded tradition with chic style.

After meeting on Tinder early on in the app’s lifetime, the couple soon hit it off, Valentino choosing the day after Catherine’s birthday, while in lockdown to propose – placing the ring in a glass of port!

Dreaming of a classic, timeless wedding gown, Catherine found her strapless ballgown at Melbourne designer Mariana Hardwick.

Something utterly special? A sentimental gift. “My niece and nephews made some drawings that I kept in the pockets of my dress as I walked down the aisle.”

When it came to his wedding day attire, Valentino wanted a classic look, so hit up a favourite designer he’d used before, Arthur Galan, opting for a chic black tuxedo.

Valentino started the day with traditional blessings from his family.

Seeing Catherine walk down the aisle with her parents, remains one of Valentino’s favourite memories of the day.

The couple chose a traditional Greek orthodox ceremony at the beautiful St Anargiri Orthodox Church.

 

The moody contrast of their photos, and the chic city glam, was reflected in every shot. Says Catherine “Matty and Jacques from  VisualTales made the day fun and lively. We consider them our close friends and still stay in contact to this day.”

Classic yet modern, the couple chose Flowers by Varu to style the floral details for the day. “Flowers by Varu used their creative flair to design the table arrangements and bouquets” explains the bride. “Touch of blue, and peach/pink tones were used for the arrangements with beautiful orchids to keep them looking elegant.”

Keeping the glam, urban mood going, the newlyweds hosted their guests for an intimate dinner at Vue De Monde. “Vue De Monde had the most beautiful view of the city, with exquisite food” reminisces Catherine. Each guest took home bottle of Ouzo and a bottle of limoncello to reflect both the bride and groom’s cultures.

With a pandemic surrounding them, these two were unable to share a first dance, says Catherine. “Due to COVID restrictions, dance floors were banned. Times were very weird during the pandemic.”

Catherine’s very favourite moment of the day? “Spending  time with my husband on the balcony of the Rialto at the end of the event. Overlooking the beautiful night life from level 55, Melbourne is quite stunning at night.”

Congratulations on your marriage Catherine & Valentino! We are so thrilled to be able to share your day and to be able to share the work of Visualtales Weddings!