For Sam and Ashley their amazing day was all about solidifying their unbreakable bond. It means “creating a team. A best friend to go through life with who always has your back and to cheer you on”.
The pair knew each other through high school. They were in the same Year 8 and 9 Core class together but their paths never crossed. He was in the “techy” group and she was in the “Arty” group. A few years after school, mutual friends of ours invited both of us to a night out at the local pub and the rest is history!
Ashley gave us the inside scoop into her sentimental and somewhat unexpected proposal. “We were staying in Sam's parents' caravan up on the sunshine coast. He told me later that he wanted to propose a few weeks later on our getaway to Coolangatta but the ring was burning a hole in his pocket. He woke me up at 4:30am and asked me if I wanted to go for a walk to see the sunrise. I was pretty suspicious at that moment as he isn’t really a morning person (apart from if it was fishing). I said yes, we walked the beach and watched the sunrise before he got down on one knee and proposed”.
The couple go back to their romantic getaway every year to relieve their magical moment.
Once the couple were engaged next came choosing the venue. “We had our wedding at Northshore Harbour Cafe. We picked the venue as we really wanted to be near the water as we both love the water. The venue was a great mix of the relaxed, cosy vibe we were searching for”. It was even more exciting that a majority of the couples families were able to attend as they lived in Brisbane. For those who couldn't, the pair set up a live stream so family members overseas could still be a part of the big day.
As for Ashley’s gown, “When Freddie Met Lily and all the staff were amazing in helping me find the perfect gown. Being able to customise a gown meant that I was able to create something that was unique to me. I knew that I wanted a dress that was A line, comfortable, light to wear, with ethereal touches. I was able to find the perfect base gown with the guidance of Vanessa and then add touches such as wings and more lace which made it the dress of my dreams. I was very lucky to have lots of family able to be a part of finding my gown. My family and friends saw me in the gown I finally chose and knew that it had potential to be the perfect understated, fairy-like dress I was looking for”.
For my now husband, “I pretty much gave him full reign when it came to his outfit, I just said it had to be a suit that was grey or blue.”
The whole bridal experience was so special for Ashley. There were so many small touches that truly made the whole day sing. Having all their family in one place to witness their amazing day was an amazing experience. Especially as “we wrote our own vows which was so special. We even did a choreographed first dance. Sam actually asked me to teach him to dance for our first dance as I have been a dancer since I was young and he knew that it was important for me. It was definitely a highlight.
In the end, it’s your wedding day - no one else’s. Do what YOU want, not what is expected of you. Choose what you live and don’t forget to make sure you are comfortable.
We could not be more thrilled with how Ashley’s final gown turned out. She and her hubby Sam looked amazing on the big day and we wish them a lifetime of happiness!
Vendor tags:
Venue: Northshore Harbour Cafe now under new management as @TheRiverRoomCafe
Hair and Make up: Boho Brides @boho_bridesau
Flowers: New England Flower Co. @neflowerco
Photography: Willidea Photo and Video Studio @willideastudio
Videographer: MT Productions @_mtproductions_
Celebrant: Married By Luke @marriedbyluke_ldg