Some love stories are born in the most unexpected places – and for Amelia and Matthew, their journey began in the spirited chaos of an ultimate frisbee tournament back in 2018. A mutual friend’s invitation to join a team sparked a fateful introduction – and as luck would have it, a shared love for architecture, too.
“I remember we realised we both studied architecture on the same day,” Amelia recalls. “But then we didn’t see each other again for five months!”
Their story quietly continued, with frisbee games until, eventually, at a birthday party for their mutual friend, conversation flowed more easily, sparks flew, and in March 2019, they officially became a couple.
A Picture-Perfect Proposal (With a Little Surprise)
Fast forward to a sun-drenched clifftop in Zakynthos, Greece. Matthew had planned the perfect proposal – complete with a secret photographer to capture the moment. But fate (and Google Maps) had other plans.
“The photographer went to the wrong location and was an hour late,” Amelia laughs. “Matt had to stall while we waited... but he pulled it off beautifully.”
Building a Life Together
For Amelia, marriage is the ultimate partnership.
“It means deciding to be a team for life,” she says. “You’ve found your person, and now you get to plan your future together.”
And for their special day, Amelia and Matthew wanted something elegant, timeless, and uniquely them.
The Venue: Classic Meets Industrial Chic
After a whirlwind venue-scouting trip to Byron Bay left them feeling overwhelmed, they turned their focus closer to home. The ceremony took place in the lush Brisbane Botanic Gardens at The Gardens Club – a serene, green space they loved instantly. For the reception, they chose Factory 51, a rustic Italian venue with exposed brick, a central chandelier, curtain fairy lights, and just the right amount of old-world charm.
“It already had so much character, we didn’t need to add much,” Amelia says.
The Dress: A Dream in Lace
Amelia came to When Freddie Met Lilly with a crystal-clear vision: long lace sleeves, a flowing skirt, a wide waistband – a gown that embodied timeless elegance.
“Vanessa was incredible,” Amelia says. “She brought my vision to life – even mixing and matching pieces to create exactly what I imagined.”
The final touch? The gown was cleverly designed as two pieces, meaning Amelia can wear the top again with jeans, for a subtle nod to her wedding day in everyday life.
The Styling: A Black & White Affair
The bridal party embraced sleek sophistication, with both bridesmaids and groomsmen wearing black. The result was an effortlessly elegant, monochrome look, perfect against the rich greenery of the gardens and the textured interior of the reception venue.
Florals, lovingly crafted by Amelia and her mum, added a soft touch. White blooms and greenery lined the ceremony chairs, while the reception tables overflowed with colourful vintage vases. The bridal bouquets? Classic baby’s breath – simple, elegant, and oh-so chic.
The Special Moments
While every detail was thoughtfully planned, it was the moments that made the day unforgettable.
Personalised vows were exchanged during the ceremony. The glow wands that lit up the dance floor. The adrenaline and joy of performing their choreographed first dance to Dancing in the Moonlight – a routine they’d secretly rehearsed for months.
“We only got it right the week before,” Amelia admits, “but it was so much fun and totally set the tone for the night!”
And as for the moment Amelia met Matt at the end of the aisle?
“It’s all a blur!” she laughs. “I don’t even remember what he said – I was so nervous.”
Advice from the Bride
For brides-to-be, Amelia has some sage advice:
- Eat something in the morning – the day moves fast!
- Embrace the chaos – if something goes wrong, let others handle it and focus on enjoying every moment.
- Dance floor tip: Glow wands = guaranteed party.
And most importantly?
“The little things you stress about beforehand - you won’t even notice them on the day.”
Amelia and Matthew’s love story is one of unexpected beginnings, beautiful moments, and shared dreams, from a chance meeting on a frisbee field to a romantic first dance under a chandelier. We were honoured to be a small part of their journey.
Bride: @ameliahumble
Groom: @matthewlennonaustralia
Photographer: @ninaclairephotographer
Makeup: @katedevlin
Hair: @ayloulahairdesign
