After a chance meeting on the other side of the world, Maria and Alex chose to say I do surrounded by friends and family in the beautiful Hunter Valley. The couple became newlyweds surrounded by an elegant garden view, and followed this with a touch of Brazilian flair and a lively celebration.
Worlds Collide...
An Australian bar in London is where the happy couple first laid eyes on each other. On a night filled with cheap mojitos and cheesy music, Alex asked Maria for a dance. Despite getting off on a bad foot (literally), the couple were able to break the ice with their dance moves. They agreed to go to lunch the next day and then spent every day of the next two weeks getting to know each other in London.
Love Long Distance...
"Just after Alex went back to Australia I knew I was falling in love with him," reveals Maria. The following year Alex moved to London to be with her.
A Family Affair...
The couple got engaged after four wonderful years together whilst on a family vacation in the Maldives. Alex organised a romantic private dining table on the beach. 'He was very nervous before he pops the question. I was not expecting this to happen at all and was very excited.' Maria tells us.
Hunter Valley Vows...
Planning the wedding all the way from the UK, Maria and Alex chose to celebrate their day in NSW's spectacular Hunter Valley. Their colour theme, featuring white peonies and blush pink roses, perfectly complimented the lush greenery of the area. The bouquets and flower arch were further filled with the light toned florals, adding another magical and sophisticated detail to the day.
Divinely Dressed...
Maria opted for a wedding dress which displayed soft detail and incredible elegance. The lace covered bodice of the dress featured intricate detailing, including pearl and glass beads. The long train and veil flowed together, creating the ultimate fairytale look. The groom and groomsmen looked charming in a classic tuxedo, blending in with the theme. Maria's bridesmaid's were also dressed in blush pink, wearing stunning one shoulder gowns.
Happy Hour...
Following a truly breathtaking ceremony, guests were treated to a cocktail reception filled with delicious canapés and decadent grazing platters. Meanwhile, the bridal party took some amazing shots in the picturesque Albion Farm Garden nearby. After this, the party began at the sit down reception, with plenty of festivities to come!
A Blush Glow...
Much like the ceremony, the reception was decorated with peonies and greenery as the main focus. Florals were hung throughout the marquee, creating stunning detail in every corner. The marquee was themed with blush and white tones, allowing the black and gold detailing to stand out. As the event moved into the evening, the space with lit up with dangling fairy lights, creating a phenomenal glow.
Special Moments...
Maria and Alex agree that the standout moments of their wedding were those that were kept a surprise. They chose to write their own vows and keep them secret from each other until the ceremony. They also loved the speeches given by their friends and family at the reception, which thoroughly entertained the couple and their guests.
Brazilian Flavour...
One of the highlights of the day for the happy couple was that they got to incorporate some Brazilian culture into their wedding. At their reception, the entertainment included Brazilian dancers and music, and guests were given Brazilian themed Havaiana shoes as bomboniere. Perfect footwear to dance the night away in!
Time To Dance...
With the reception in full swing, a feeling of excitement and festivity filled the event. The bride changed into a fitted lace gown and prepared the dancing shoes. The couple continued to celebrate with family and friends, ending the evening with a cheeky jump in the pool to celebrate the newlyweds.
See you Down Under...
These newlyweds can't get enough of the Maldives, planning to honeymoon their later in the year. When asked about their plans for the future, this couple expressed their desire to make the move from the UK to Australia in the coming years and to start a family.
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Venue: Wallalong House / Wedding Coordination: Peonies Boutique Weddings / Catering: Mason Catering /Marquee Hire: Kata Lane / Officiant: Luana Torres / Photographer: James Day / Videographer: Lemon Tree Film House / Entertainment: Baker Boys / Samba Brazil Cake: Project Cake / Brazilian Desserts: La Fine Cake / Hair: Carly Wood / Chic Artistry / Makeup: Makeup by Anastasia / Wedding Dress: Caroline Castigilano / Wedding Suit and Groomsmen's Attire: Peppers Formal Wear / Bridesmaid's Attire: Ted Baker