With the Darlington Estate in Perth as their backdrop, this elegant spring wedding is the perfect addition to the After Dark Issue. Complete with elegant florals that were just a touch wild, their furry child, Rupert, by their sides, matching mum-and-daughter floral-detailed dresses, and the most incredible photography by Simone Addison Photography – today’s feature is one we’re super excited to get into.

Having circled each other most of their lives, Christian and Courtney were no strangers to each other’s presence. But it wasn’t until their late 20s that everything finally fell into place.

As the sunset over Goombaragin Eco Retreat in the Kimberley region of Western Australia, Christian got down on one knee and asked Courtney the question that led them here today. “Being amongst those red cliffs at sunset is an incredible experience,” she shared.

Christian wore a classic black tuxedo in this luxurious velvet from Institichu. “He matched the groomsmen, but his velvet fabric was the point of difference.”

While Courtney’s self-proclaimed style leans more towards an understated vibe, there was something about this Oksana Mukha gown from Bridal by Aubrey Rose that spoke to her more than any of her other options. “I wore an elegant strapless dress with an extremely large train and a large flower at the hip. The choice was somewhat unexpected when I was searching for my dress; however, when it came to choosing what felt like a ‘moment’, that was the one,” she explained.

In her wedding party, Courtney had her sister and two friends supporting her, all of whom were positively glowing with pregnancy. “I asked them to wear black and in any colour/style/fabric they chose that would be comfortable. Christian had his cousin and two best friends, who all wore custom matching black suits.”

Karla from Franc Flora in Perth was the mastermind behind all of these beautiful flowers. “I gave the florist some inspiration on colours and then asked her to have free rein over the design of the bouquets and table settings. One of my favourite inclusions from the florist was tall, coloured candles in glass sleeves,” Courtney gushed.

There was no better venue for this elegant celebration than Darlington Estate in Perth, Western Australia. “We chose to have the ceremony and reception together in one venue to maximise our time on the day and with our guests. The venue is in a bushland setting, so it is naturally beautiful with a rustic, effortless and classy look to the restaurant. We chose an outdoor dance floor and brought in a DJ.”

Arm-in-arm with her mum, wearing a matching floral-detailed dress, Courtney walked down the aisle as a string quartet performed “Iris” by the Goo Goo Dolls.

Led by their celebrant, Meagan of Love Actually, Courtney and Christian’s ceremony was full of giggles and proud tears. It was made all the more special with the inclusion of their groodle, Rupert, in his snazzy little suit!

Simone Addison Photography and Ryan Reid were the perfect duo to be behind the lens for Christian and Courtney’s elegant wedding. “Simone was fantastic to work with both in the lead-up and on the day of the wedding. She got us our sneak peek of images quickly and included no less than 94 photos in it! We loved every image, and she captured all the important moments for us beautifully.” Courtney gushed.

One of Courtney’s favourite parts of the planning process was learning about each area of specialty from each of their vendors. “Every vendor knew so much about their product or service, things I never would have ever considered without being directed!”

The pair worked with Starfish Lane to design these beautiful menus for the reception. “I love them!” Courtney shared, before adding, “Don’t underestimate the cost of printing custom menus on card!”

Their first dance was to The Turtles’ “Happy Together”. Courtney and Christian then opened up the dance floor with some Macedonian dances!

A huge thanks to Simone Addison Photography for capturing and sharing these moments with us. And congratulations to Courtney and Christian on this beautiful celebration!