Real Weddings: Catherine + Dylan

Catherine and Dylan, a bride and groom in a tender embrace on their wedding day

Catherine & Dylan’s Autumnal and Ethereal Wedding

Catherine and Dylan, a bride and groom in a tender embrace on their wedding day

Catherine and Dylan’s wedding was a celebration woven with threads of autumnal elegance and old-world charm, reminiscent of the opulent era depicted in The Great Gatsby, all set within the rustic embrace of a beautiful country bookshop. A stylish and heartfelt affair that featured in Polka Dot Wedding! Their love story unfolded against the picturesque backdrop of Bendooley Estate, a venue steeped in rustic allure, where every corner whispered tales of romance and enchantment.

The ceremony was a harmonious blend of rustic charm and timeless elegance, with the couple’s love for literature and champagne evident in every detail. From the intimate exchange of vows to the joyous celebration that followed, every moment was infused with the couple’s unique personality and style.

Bride laughing as she walks down the aisle in the rain and a bridesmaid is holding out an umbrella for her

Following the ceremony, guests were invited to partake in a cocktail hour nestled within the cellar door. As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the estate, the festivities moved inside The Book Barn, where guests were greeted by a sight that evoked the grandeur of a bygone era. Tables adorned with lush floral arrangements by Emma Blake Floral beckoned guests to take their seats, their dark, creamy tones adding a touch of mystery to the enchanting ambiance. Above, ceiling installations dripped with wild yet classic touches, casting a dreamlike spell over the scene.
For Catherine, her gown was a reflection of her desire for versatility and elegance. She chose a stunning fit and flare dress from Karen Willis Holmes, its v-neck silhouette exuding timeless grace. For the ceremony, she added a Chantilly long-sleeved lace top, lending an air of ethereal romance. As the evening unfolded into a joyous celebration, she swapped it for a glittery belt, infusing her ensemble with a touch of fun and glamour.

a bride and her bridesmaids walking down the road away from the camera. Everyone is dressed in white, walking along a red-dirt road. All but one is turned away from the camera

No celebration would be complete without a decadent confection, and Catherine and Dylan’s wedding was no exception. The Cake Arcade crafted a masterpiece adorned with fondant figures of the bride, groom, and their beloved fur-baby, Bertie, a sweet tribute to their cherished companion.
Amidst the festivities, Catherine took a moment to express her gratitude to her mother, presenting her with a beautiful keepsake box as a token of appreciation for her unwavering support and love. It was a heartfelt gesture that spoke volumes of the love and bond shared between mother and daughter. We were so honoured to be a part of the love shared today.

An absolutely beautiful wedding, where Catherine and Dylan’s love story unfolded like the pages of a cherished novel, each chapter brimming with beauty, grace, and the promise of happily ever after.

Couple: Catherine + Dylan
Venue: Bendooley Estate
Photographer: All Grown Up Weddings
Video: With Heart
Gown: Karen Willis Holmes
Flowers: Emma Blake Floral
Cake: Cake Arcade

Inspo: Elopement at Bilam-Belle Bliss

elopement at bilambelle bliss shoot

This year has been a tough one for gatherings and getting together with all our friends and family for celebrations! It feels like wedding planning has been a minefield, with constant updates to restrictions and what can be included in our dinner and dancing plans! One solution to navigating restrictions (or even just the planning headaches that can often come with weddings) is an elopement! Elopements aren’t just “running away to get married”, they are an intimate moment created between you and your partner – where you can come together and be officially married in your dream location. One of our absolute favourites was this elopement at Bilam-Belle Bliss!

elopement shoot bilam-belle bliss
Flowers by Lolas Wild Flowers

Located in the gorgeous surrounds of Bilambil on the Tweed Coast, Bilam-Belle Bliss boasts beautiful tropical surrounds and absolute serenity. We partnered up with some of our favourite local wedding vendors to create this little elopement inspo.

gift box wedding styling
Our Bride and Groom gift boxes on display

This beautiful column style gown with delicate lace detailing and illusion bust is by our friends at Helena Couture Designs. Completed with a gorgeous bohemian-style headpiece adorned with floral details and those soft, draping details that perfectly complement the sweep of the dress’s train.

The navy hues spotted in the Groom’s attire and bouquet arrangements are carried through to the table styling by Emerald Aisle Events. Embracing the gorgeous greenery surrounds, styling was in keeping with the environment while adding some golden accents to natural wooden elements and crisp white runner matching the intimate, graceful feel of the bridal attire. Floral features by Lola’s Wildflowers provide the perfect finishing touches.

Please enjoy some of these other gems captured from our Elopement at Bilam-Belle Bliss. Our other superstar vendors include:

Venue Bilam-Belle Bliss // Concept & Styling Emerald Aisle Events // Photography Bulb Creative // Dress and Headpiece Helena Couture Designs // Hair and Makeup Lisabette Makeup // Florist Lola’s Wildflowers // Furniture Hire Arctic Fox Furniture Hire and Styling // Stationery Ray Meets Rose // Bridal Boxes The Bridal Box Co. // Cake Bake Boss