This couple’s romantic city wedding is proof that dreams really do come true.
When Nick walked into my world, all sweaty and handsome in his khaki workwear, he changed my idea of ‘love at first sight’ forever,” says Annette. In 2013, when their jobs brought their orbits in line, Annette found herself in charge of organising Nick’s busy schedule and, cheekily, sometimes overbooked him on occasion, just so she could see his smile.
Those stolen moments turned into months and years, bringing this couple and their children together to make a happy home full of laughter and love. Overjoyed with the knowledge that she’d found her life partner, Annette says, “From the beginning, Nick gave me the strength to trust my heart, and since then, I have only fallen deeper for his kindness.”
An adventurous couple, the two enjoy heading into nature on various excursions and camping trips. And when Nick asked Annette to accompany him to the location of their annual family Christmas trip on the cliffs of North Stradbroke Island a few months earlier than usual, he took the opportunity to pop the question in one of their favourite places.
The two began planning their wedding celebration right away and decided to tie the knot in Rarotonga in the Cook Islands. But when COVID-19 restrictions dashed their plans, the disheartened duo had no clue that a wonderful surprise was in store.
When they received a call in early June from Alysia Bridger Events, Annette and Nick were told their friend Bambi had secretly put them in the running for a dream wedding hosted by Alysia and 26 other superstar suppliers – and that they had won! “Annette and I were speechless,” says Nick.
“We couldn’t believe that this was even possible during this pandemic.” But the couple says that the dedicated vendors and suppliers showed them what a selfless group of people truly looks like. While they will have to wait until a later date to celebrate with some of their family, they were able to invite 20 guests, and their celebration was fit for a fairytale – complete with a royal touch. “Alysia came into my room, and she had the most amazing surprise for Nick and me,” Annette shares. “Paul Burrell, the late Princess Diana’s butler, had sent us an extraordinary wedding message, wishing us both a wonderful life ahead, and we will cherish his kind words forever.”
Their open-air ceremony at Stamford Plaza was an enchanting vision, with the setting surrounded by white cherry blossom trees. And after the couple were wed, they toured the city in a restored vintage luxury car from Our Wedding Cars before heading over to Blackbird Brisbane – the location of one of their very first dates – for their reception.
Shining flatware, sparkling crystal, ivory flowers and flickering candles filled the space as Siena Larsson played the guitar and sang ‘Can’t Help Falling In Love’. And, just to seal the magical deal, Alysia had planned for fireworks to light up the night sky right as the couple cut their gorgeously decorated, four-tier cake, courtesy of The Sweet Society Co, out on the balcony!
Annette and Nick intimately understand the dilemma faced by couples who are affected by COVID-19. Deciding to postpone a wedding to celebrate with everyone or commit to a preferred timeframe with the knowledge that some guests might only be able to join in virtually is a tough decision to make. “But, getting married during these times is just what we did,” says Annette. “One day, when some restrictions are lifted, we can all celebrate again with them.” Having two celebrations doesn’t sound half bad, and a love as strong as theirs deserves an extra day!
After sending their guests off with jar cakes and handmade chocolates, Annette and Nick were whisked back to Stamford Plaza to enjoy the glittering Brisbane skyline in luxury. With their dream day behind them, the newlyweds are planning their close-to-home honeymoon in the Whitsundays.
[Little Black Book]
Planning: Alysia Bridger Events // Ceremony: Stamford Plaza Brisbane // Reception: Blackbird Private Dining & Events // Photography: Soda Wedding Photography // Videography: Lunasity Media // Celebrant: Moore Celebrations // Hair: House of Zion // Makeup: Carly Stone // Suit: Black Jacket Suiting // Ceremony aisle: Beautiful Weddings Australia // Custom chapel build: HoneyTUB Wedding Hire // Blossom branches: The Blossom Tree Company // Bouquet: Florabella Design // Floral centrepieces: John Emmanuel Floral Events // Vases: White Label Hire // Candles: ULightMeUp // Flatware and vases: Ivy & Bleu Events // Stationery: Joyce May Designs // Place settings: The Perfect Party Co // Cake: The Sweet Society Co // Pre-wedding treats: Scrumdiddliumptious Catering // Fireworks: Skylighter Fireworks // Transport: Our Wedding Cars // Jar cakes: The Mason Baker // Custom chocolates: CoCouture Chocolates // Music: Siena Larsson
