So today we got a preview of our professional wedding photo's. Below is a handful of images but for more go to the link below to see more on our special day in Thailand
Saturday, January 25, 2014
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Wednesday, December 18, 2013
Our Wedding Day...
So where do I begin...
I had been working full weeks and had been photographing a wedding every single weekend for the month of November, so saying I was ran off my feet is an understatement. I shot my last wedding on the Saturday and then we had to drive to Sydney the next day to meet up with my family at the airport hotel. When we arrived the bedding was an issue so we had a floor in the hotel while sharing a room with a teething 18 month old, so it wasn't the best start to our trip.
The next morning we started organising ourselves and made our way to the terminal. We checked in very easily and then we got on our way. The flight was good, Jetstar is the easiest and most direct flight from Sydney to Phuket - just make sure you buy entertainment & food. (I have travelled with Thai Airways before and think they have a great service, but this was quicker, easier)
When we arrived my brother and his family where so overwhelmed, they just wanted to check into the hotel and go to bed. On the other hand we wanted to show my parents around and went for a walk. We stayed at Gracelands Resort & Spa in the new Sunset wing section. Excellent resort that I would highly recommend it (even for a wedding actually). Easy walking distance from things, so no expensive tuk tuk rides, great pools, over on the quieter end of the Patong strip.
So the next few days more family & friends arrived, we visited elephants, Buddha's, having tuk tuk rides, lots of swimming, shows seen, Thai food and alcohol consumed. We had an amazing day in the sun with everyone on a Phi Phi Island day trip, we organised a group trip & I highly recommend doing this with your guests. A great lunch, monkey's and so much snorkeling.
The day before I remember saying - "Oh my gosh, we get married tomorrow!" We had been having such a good time that it took away all the nerves and created excitement and surprise.
The Wedding Day...
On the morning of the 11th December 2013, we had stayed together and sat up late chatting. It was so nice to wake up with my husband-to-be. I think this is what kept me calm all day.
I had a shower when I woke up and left him to sleep while I went upstairs for breakfast and to see the wedding planning team. The make-up artist, Lisa Allen Makeup Artist was lovely and we started prep in the air-conditioning (a god send that day as even the Thai people said that it was hot for them) She used air brushing which looked amazing.
With my hair I wanted soft pinned in curls, but the humidity just wouldn't allow such thing, so she had to pin and spray everything into place. I still liked my hair and really the best thing was having my mountain of hair off my shoulders.
Due to budget restrictions, my sister-in-law, a hairdresser in the past did my bridesmaids hair & make-up. She did an amazing job. My sister-in-law had to re-do my foundation as in the head with all the sweating it had melted off my face.
So once all done up, it was turning into a bit of a rush as the hair & make-up took 3 hours. I slipped into my dress and the photographer popped her head into the room and said, "I have a very nervous Evan waiting out here."
He was standing at the end of the long walk way with his back to me for our first look. As soon as I could see him the emotion hit me. I started walking down, shaking, scared and then I put my hand on his back and he turned around. He had the biggest smile, he looked so content and happy. I was crying so much, he kept wiping my tears away saying, "stop crying, it's happy." My make-up needed fixed before we even left from the tears. Luckily Lisa could fix it.
We had a few quick shots at the villa then both of us and my brother (aka best man) & hubby's sister (aka bridesmaid) jumped in our air conditioned van and went on our way.
We had only a short amount of time, about an hour. We went to a private estate with it's own beach and garden. The garden had lots of shade and allowed us to get some good pic's on the sunny day. We then had a few pic's along the beached area.
I could see a big white rock that I loved the look of and streight away was like "I want pic's on that" - she looked at me like I was crazy, as did hubby. But we did it, we climbed up and sat on the rock together. I hope she could picture what I was seeing (sometimes great spot ideas don't always work out in midday sun) It also had a little garden path we had a few shots along.
Then from that spot we drove around looking for some wild flowers, but instead stumbled upon a very rustic, funky beach bar. It had a great big tree over it and a very rustic bridge. We had pic's here and stopped for a drink. Sadly that was all the time we had, I wanted funky street shots of us walking down Banglar Road & us in a tuk tuk but we just ran out of time. It was so hot, that any longer in the sun would have been hard on us anyway.
When we got back to the villa my brother joked we should ride the scooter, my bridesmaid was like yes!!! Do it, lol so we did. She doubled my brother and then hubby doubled me up and down the driveway. Hopefully they make for some fun pictures.
The guests had been picked up at 3:30pm and as soon as we arrived back in the villa, the guests started to arrive. Looking back I think the guests didn't need to arrive until around 4:30pm, as our ceremony was at 5pm. Being such a hot day they where all sweltering in the heat waiting. She asked me to start earlier but she knew I wanted a sunset ceremony. I had taken my dress off to help me cool down and my sister-in-law fixed all my make-up.
Then my dad came down to my room. He was funny, he didn't say much and my mum is saying "tell her she looks beautiful" - my dad isn't an emotional man, so it was funny to me.
I put the dress back on and then we had to start walking up the stairs. I could hear the music and started feeling emotional again about half way. My dad and I spoke about silly things like the construction of the villa so I wouldn't cry again, but as soon as I could see everyone I was tearing up.
I had to look at the ground as I walked the aisle, everyone was looking at me, but I did look up a few times and then I could see my hubby.
My dad gave me away and we held hands. Both of us where sweating. He squeezed my hands, like a cute hello. The celebrant, John Lindsay - Celebrant was really good, he is an Aussie, living in Thailand and spoke beautifully. We are both really happy with him. It was a simple ceremony, he made a short reading, then exchanged rings & the kiss! I cried when Ev said "I do" and again when we kissed.
After that everyone congratulated us and then drinks and cool towels started to be served as it was so warm. The sun was setting so we got pictures with everyone who made the journey. I'm hoping if my photo's don't take too long to use them as our Thank You cards.
As we didn't have long for photo's the bridal party popped up stairs for a few more shots alone. While we did that canape's where served. I only got to try two but they where very yummy... everyone told us the food was amazing thanks to Phuket Catering!
My dad introduced us and we had all the tables outside on the grass over looking the pool. It was lovely with the candles lit. We had little elephants as our keep sake for everyone.
The main meal was roast chicken, lamb and massaman curry served in a family share style per table with veggies and rice. It was great way to serve dinner, you could eat as much as you wanted and pick what you like. Everyone was so impressed.
We then had speeches. My brother spoke first and was the only one to prepare his speech, it was lovely. I am going to ask him for a copy to keep. Then as my bridesmaid wouldn't speak we had asked a close friend to say a speech. It was hilarious. My dad then spoke, he was short and sweet and huby's best mate spoke on his mum's behalf (as she was crying the whole time and couldn't form a sentence)
We spoke together, later he told me he wished he wrote something out as he had so much to say but couldn't think of anything other then thank you for coming. I got a bit teared up thanking our parents and his mum for all the support with his illness.
Then we had our first dance to The Rubens - Lay it Down. The family joined us for the dancing, which was nice.
After this they served creme brulee in tea cups. My favorite!! Some of the boys where really hot by now and that is when Ev got chucked in the pool. Everyone had brought swimmers so most people went swimming, but not before the fireworks started!
The fireworks where amazing!! For what we paid I was so impressed! They where right at eye level for just over 3 minutes. Everyone said it was the best wedding they had ever attended.
We all drank, swam and chat for the rest of the evening until the transfer came at midnight and took everyone back to the hotel. It was nice to end the night with the family sitting around reflecting on the day that was in our private villa.
It's funny it wasn't that long ago and already I feel like I have forgotten so much of what happened.
The only issue we had was the language break down about alcohol. We asked for pre-mixed drinks and instead got bottles of straight vodka, whiskey, etc. I would tell someone to organise the grog themselves at a supermarket, we ran out of soft drink because no one could pre-mix so they had to run out and get more.
I had been working full weeks and had been photographing a wedding every single weekend for the month of November, so saying I was ran off my feet is an understatement. I shot my last wedding on the Saturday and then we had to drive to Sydney the next day to meet up with my family at the airport hotel. When we arrived the bedding was an issue so we had a floor in the hotel while sharing a room with a teething 18 month old, so it wasn't the best start to our trip.
The next morning we started organising ourselves and made our way to the terminal. We checked in very easily and then we got on our way. The flight was good, Jetstar is the easiest and most direct flight from Sydney to Phuket - just make sure you buy entertainment & food. (I have travelled with Thai Airways before and think they have a great service, but this was quicker, easier)
When we arrived my brother and his family where so overwhelmed, they just wanted to check into the hotel and go to bed. On the other hand we wanted to show my parents around and went for a walk. We stayed at Gracelands Resort & Spa in the new Sunset wing section. Excellent resort that I would highly recommend it (even for a wedding actually). Easy walking distance from things, so no expensive tuk tuk rides, great pools, over on the quieter end of the Patong strip.
So the next few days more family & friends arrived, we visited elephants, Buddha's, having tuk tuk rides, lots of swimming, shows seen, Thai food and alcohol consumed. We had an amazing day in the sun with everyone on a Phi Phi Island day trip, we organised a group trip & I highly recommend doing this with your guests. A great lunch, monkey's and so much snorkeling.
The day before I remember saying - "Oh my gosh, we get married tomorrow!" We had been having such a good time that it took away all the nerves and created excitement and surprise.
The Wedding Day...
On the morning of the 11th December 2013, we had stayed together and sat up late chatting. It was so nice to wake up with my husband-to-be. I think this is what kept me calm all day.
I had a shower when I woke up and left him to sleep while I went upstairs for breakfast and to see the wedding planning team. The make-up artist, Lisa Allen Makeup Artist was lovely and we started prep in the air-conditioning (a god send that day as even the Thai people said that it was hot for them) She used air brushing which looked amazing.
With my hair I wanted soft pinned in curls, but the humidity just wouldn't allow such thing, so she had to pin and spray everything into place. I still liked my hair and really the best thing was having my mountain of hair off my shoulders.
Due to budget restrictions, my sister-in-law, a hairdresser in the past did my bridesmaids hair & make-up. She did an amazing job. My sister-in-law had to re-do my foundation as in the head with all the sweating it had melted off my face.
So once all done up, it was turning into a bit of a rush as the hair & make-up took 3 hours. I slipped into my dress and the photographer popped her head into the room and said, "I have a very nervous Evan waiting out here."
He was standing at the end of the long walk way with his back to me for our first look. As soon as I could see him the emotion hit me. I started walking down, shaking, scared and then I put my hand on his back and he turned around. He had the biggest smile, he looked so content and happy. I was crying so much, he kept wiping my tears away saying, "stop crying, it's happy." My make-up needed fixed before we even left from the tears. Luckily Lisa could fix it.
We had a few quick shots at the villa then both of us and my brother (aka best man) & hubby's sister (aka bridesmaid) jumped in our air conditioned van and went on our way.
We had only a short amount of time, about an hour. We went to a private estate with it's own beach and garden. The garden had lots of shade and allowed us to get some good pic's on the sunny day. We then had a few pic's along the beached area.
I could see a big white rock that I loved the look of and streight away was like "I want pic's on that" - she looked at me like I was crazy, as did hubby. But we did it, we climbed up and sat on the rock together. I hope she could picture what I was seeing (sometimes great spot ideas don't always work out in midday sun) It also had a little garden path we had a few shots along.
Then from that spot we drove around looking for some wild flowers, but instead stumbled upon a very rustic, funky beach bar. It had a great big tree over it and a very rustic bridge. We had pic's here and stopped for a drink. Sadly that was all the time we had, I wanted funky street shots of us walking down Banglar Road & us in a tuk tuk but we just ran out of time. It was so hot, that any longer in the sun would have been hard on us anyway.
When we got back to the villa my brother joked we should ride the scooter, my bridesmaid was like yes!!! Do it, lol so we did. She doubled my brother and then hubby doubled me up and down the driveway. Hopefully they make for some fun pictures.
The guests had been picked up at 3:30pm and as soon as we arrived back in the villa, the guests started to arrive. Looking back I think the guests didn't need to arrive until around 4:30pm, as our ceremony was at 5pm. Being such a hot day they where all sweltering in the heat waiting. She asked me to start earlier but she knew I wanted a sunset ceremony. I had taken my dress off to help me cool down and my sister-in-law fixed all my make-up.
Then my dad came down to my room. He was funny, he didn't say much and my mum is saying "tell her she looks beautiful" - my dad isn't an emotional man, so it was funny to me.
I put the dress back on and then we had to start walking up the stairs. I could hear the music and started feeling emotional again about half way. My dad and I spoke about silly things like the construction of the villa so I wouldn't cry again, but as soon as I could see everyone I was tearing up.
I had to look at the ground as I walked the aisle, everyone was looking at me, but I did look up a few times and then I could see my hubby.
My dad gave me away and we held hands. Both of us where sweating. He squeezed my hands, like a cute hello. The celebrant, John Lindsay - Celebrant was really good, he is an Aussie, living in Thailand and spoke beautifully. We are both really happy with him. It was a simple ceremony, he made a short reading, then exchanged rings & the kiss! I cried when Ev said "I do" and again when we kissed.
After that everyone congratulated us and then drinks and cool towels started to be served as it was so warm. The sun was setting so we got pictures with everyone who made the journey. I'm hoping if my photo's don't take too long to use them as our Thank You cards.
As we didn't have long for photo's the bridal party popped up stairs for a few more shots alone. While we did that canape's where served. I only got to try two but they where very yummy... everyone told us the food was amazing thanks to Phuket Catering!
My dad introduced us and we had all the tables outside on the grass over looking the pool. It was lovely with the candles lit. We had little elephants as our keep sake for everyone.
The main meal was roast chicken, lamb and massaman curry served in a family share style per table with veggies and rice. It was great way to serve dinner, you could eat as much as you wanted and pick what you like. Everyone was so impressed.
We then had speeches. My brother spoke first and was the only one to prepare his speech, it was lovely. I am going to ask him for a copy to keep. Then as my bridesmaid wouldn't speak we had asked a close friend to say a speech. It was hilarious. My dad then spoke, he was short and sweet and huby's best mate spoke on his mum's behalf (as she was crying the whole time and couldn't form a sentence)
We spoke together, later he told me he wished he wrote something out as he had so much to say but couldn't think of anything other then thank you for coming. I got a bit teared up thanking our parents and his mum for all the support with his illness.
Then we had our first dance to The Rubens - Lay it Down. The family joined us for the dancing, which was nice.
After this they served creme brulee in tea cups. My favorite!! Some of the boys where really hot by now and that is when Ev got chucked in the pool. Everyone had brought swimmers so most people went swimming, but not before the fireworks started!
The fireworks where amazing!! For what we paid I was so impressed! They where right at eye level for just over 3 minutes. Everyone said it was the best wedding they had ever attended.
We all drank, swam and chat for the rest of the evening until the transfer came at midnight and took everyone back to the hotel. It was nice to end the night with the family sitting around reflecting on the day that was in our private villa.
It's funny it wasn't that long ago and already I feel like I have forgotten so much of what happened.
The only issue we had was the language break down about alcohol. We asked for pre-mixed drinks and instead got bottles of straight vodka, whiskey, etc. I would tell someone to organise the grog themselves at a supermarket, we ran out of soft drink because no one could pre-mix so they had to run out and get more.
Sunday, July 14, 2013
I hate dress shopping...
I don't want to do it anymore... I am tired, they are all so expensive and nothing is flattering my plus size figure.
Yesterday one of my good friends asked me to go to Sydney with her to pick up her dress. She looks amazing in it and I love it. Seeing we had plans to visit dress shops and I only have 5 months to go I needed a dress ASAP.
The reason I have left my dress for so late in the game is because I have lost a significant amount of weight and I am still going.
So once we arrived at the shop half the stock was out as they had it at a wedding expo {something I feel they should have told me on the phone as I explain the distance we are travelling to see the dress shop.} Then the dresses I did like come far over the $2,500 mark (some had $4K on them)
Call me a tight ass but I am going to wear this dress once, I really can think of more memorable things to spend the money on, like a videographer, wedding rings, etc. I didn't want to spend more then $1,000 {I quickly learnt this is an un-realistic budget!}
The dress lady kept trying to bully me into picking something NOW. I started to cry and the emotions over come me. I was crying huddled in a ball on the dress shop floor. Not exactly what I wanted.
Yesterday one of my good friends asked me to go to Sydney with her to pick up her dress. She looks amazing in it and I love it. Seeing we had plans to visit dress shops and I only have 5 months to go I needed a dress ASAP.
The reason I have left my dress for so late in the game is because I have lost a significant amount of weight and I am still going.
So once we arrived at the shop half the stock was out as they had it at a wedding expo {something I feel they should have told me on the phone as I explain the distance we are travelling to see the dress shop.} Then the dresses I did like come far over the $2,500 mark (some had $4K on them)
Call me a tight ass but I am going to wear this dress once, I really can think of more memorable things to spend the money on, like a videographer, wedding rings, etc. I didn't want to spend more then $1,000 {I quickly learnt this is an un-realistic budget!}
The dress lady kept trying to bully me into picking something NOW. I started to cry and the emotions over come me. I was crying huddled in a ball on the dress shop floor. Not exactly what I wanted.
Who ever said wedding dress shopping is fun,
had unlimited budget, the perfect figure and a very positive mind!
So for now I have no dress and no desire to look anymore. I asked my fiance if he's ok with jeans. He said he doesn't care what I wear, he's just happy to marry me. I love that he is so amazing. I'm loving him more each day!
Sunday, June 23, 2013
Bridesmaid dress...
So I have decided on a bridesmaid dress for my special girl, Grace. Even though she is a tall thin girl (much like her brother) she has a few problem area's that make her feel uncomfortable and I wanted a dress she could wear the way she wanted to do so.
What was the answer, an infinity dress by Coralie Beatrix!
What is an infinity dress you ask? It's a wrap dress that you can wear all different ways, perfect for a bridal party that you want to keep in the same colour but different styles to fit with individual body shapes.
I picked a navy long dress as this is the colour I was after which can be found here: http://www.etsy.com/listing/82340953/azimuth-navy-blue-long-octopus-infinity
I love the colour - it's called Azimuth Navy Blue. It looked divine. Not too bright but not too dark. We are waiting for the dress to arrive so we can decide which way will be best for her to wear it, but to be honest with a million different ways, she has so many options, I am sure they will all look good.
What was the answer, an infinity dress by Coralie Beatrix!
What is an infinity dress you ask? It's a wrap dress that you can wear all different ways, perfect for a bridal party that you want to keep in the same colour but different styles to fit with individual body shapes.
I picked a navy long dress as this is the colour I was after which can be found here: http://www.etsy.com/listing/82340953/azimuth-navy-blue-long-octopus-infinity
I love the colour - it's called Azimuth Navy Blue. It looked divine. Not too bright but not too dark. We are waiting for the dress to arrive so we can decide which way will be best for her to wear it, but to be honest with a million different ways, she has so many options, I am sure they will all look good.
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
Save the Date...
I have (finally) organised my Save the Date cards. I had the idea in my head for a while, I was inspired by something I had seen on Etsy and with my past career as a graphic designer under my belt, I was more then capable to design and print myself.
So the first thing I wanted was a postcard style to fit with our destination wedding. I created a postage stamp style logo for us, that included the date, destination and our names. I then wanted the air mail look so bordered with a navy and red trim.
We had a friend take some photo's of us for an engagement session, so I wanted to use one of the photo's. I had 2 that I loved, but my other half liked the traditional portrait so we went with that. Then on the back I created a traditional post card look with our text on the left, a stamp on the right and postage stamped, then lines and a postcode box.
I am really happy with how they came out. When posting them off I realised we have invited a few too many people (gulp) so fingers crossed a bunch decide not to come, otherwise we need to change venue.
So the first thing I wanted was a postcard style to fit with our destination wedding. I created a postage stamp style logo for us, that included the date, destination and our names. I then wanted the air mail look so bordered with a navy and red trim.
We had a friend take some photo's of us for an engagement session, so I wanted to use one of the photo's. I had 2 that I loved, but my other half liked the traditional portrait so we went with that. Then on the back I created a traditional post card look with our text on the left, a stamp on the right and postage stamped, then lines and a postcode box.
I am really happy with how they came out. When posting them off I realised we have invited a few too many people (gulp) so fingers crossed a bunch decide not to come, otherwise we need to change venue.
Friday, May 10, 2013
Our first Guests have booked...
I'm so excited!!! Our first guests booked their flights & hotel for the wedding!
I have been going back and forward on the date after my brother said they might not be able to attend due to cost, but after many conversations with pro's and con's lists a mile long we decided to stick with the date we have booked.
So it's official now, we have at least 2 guests attending our wedding. It's a start, but in saying that it's also all we really need. Now we need to book our tickets!
I have been going back and forward on the date after my brother said they might not be able to attend due to cost, but after many conversations with pro's and con's lists a mile long we decided to stick with the date we have booked.
So it's official now, we have at least 2 guests attending our wedding. It's a start, but in saying that it's also all we really need. Now we need to book our tickets!
Tuesday, April 16, 2013
Happy Birthday to me...
Today is my birthday!!!
I am another year older (27 now) oh my god... only 3 years till 30! As my birthday gift to myself I had surgery. Strange I hear you say. It was a much needed surgery and hopefully this will allow me to now live a long and happy life.
I am trying to get fit and eat healthy so I am putting off buying my dress (risky I know with only 8 months to go) but I'm not happy buying a dress looking the way I am now, I want to look my best because really the more I look at wedding dresses they are all so much alike!
I struggle to find the most amazing dress ever, so rather then trying to let the dress be amazing, I will look amazing instead!
I am another year older (27 now) oh my god... only 3 years till 30! As my birthday gift to myself I had surgery. Strange I hear you say. It was a much needed surgery and hopefully this will allow me to now live a long and happy life.
I am trying to get fit and eat healthy so I am putting off buying my dress (risky I know with only 8 months to go) but I'm not happy buying a dress looking the way I am now, I want to look my best because really the more I look at wedding dresses they are all so much alike!
I struggle to find the most amazing dress ever, so rather then trying to let the dress be amazing, I will look amazing instead!
Friday, March 22, 2013
Budget...
So I have been trying to get the budget sorted and it's really confusing. Costs are adding up faster then I expected. To help me keep track (and help future Thailand brides) here is a running budget.
Ceremony & Reception
- Private Villa Hire (Total $5,250) our cost $1,050
(Villa costs are split by all guests staying in villa)
- Sound System $400
- Wedding Planner $407
- Make Up & Hair $550
- Wedding Stationary $250
- TOTAL $3,231
Outfits
- My Dress $1,500
- Bridesmaid Dress $120
- Boys Suits $400
- Wedding Rings $1,000
- TOTAL $3,020
----
GRAND TOTAL - $16,271
It's coming in at more then I was planning but in saying that I still have room to move and it is within our budget. (Just... lol) We also need to add about a 7% VAT tax on top of all that. AND we also need to take into consideration the cost of our travel costs (Approximately $5,000) So really it's coming in at $21,000 - we could have spent less getting married here.
But in saying that I am sure it will be an amazing wedding that people wont forget!!
The price of the alcohol packages really surprised me. If I could have knocked off some of that I would. I am currently looking at alternative options like us catering the grog. We will see... also if I need to cut the budget I can ditch things like the fancy chairs, the fireworks, do our own hair & make-up cheaper dress, no videographer... we still have room to move.
And the honeymoon, well it will have to wait till next year!
Ceremony & Reception
- Private Villa Hire (Total $5,250) our cost $1,050
(Villa costs are split by all guests staying in villa)
- Catering $5500 (50 x $110 per person)
(Catering includes canapes, main, dessert, premium drink package, all set up)
- All Wedding Flowers $830- Sound System $400
- Chairs $715
- Fireworks $1,495
- TOTAL $9,990
Services
- Wedding Planner $407
- Celebrant $262
- Photographer $1,230
- Videographer $532
- Make Up & Hair $550
- Wedding Stationary $250
- TOTAL $3,231
Outfits
- My Dress $1,500
- Bridesmaid Dress $120
- Boys Suits $400
- Wedding Rings $1,000
- TOTAL $3,020
----
GRAND TOTAL - $16,271
It's coming in at more then I was planning but in saying that I still have room to move and it is within our budget. (Just... lol) We also need to add about a 7% VAT tax on top of all that. AND we also need to take into consideration the cost of our travel costs (Approximately $5,000) So really it's coming in at $21,000 - we could have spent less getting married here.
But in saying that I am sure it will be an amazing wedding that people wont forget!!
The price of the alcohol packages really surprised me. If I could have knocked off some of that I would. I am currently looking at alternative options like us catering the grog. We will see... also if I need to cut the budget I can ditch things like the fancy chairs, the fireworks, do our own hair & make-up cheaper dress, no videographer... we still have room to move.
And the honeymoon, well it will have to wait till next year!
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
My brothers Wedding....
So we are both so happy for my brother and his new wife! They had a lovely wedding in Port Macquarie over the weekend at Rydges. The food was amazing, the weather unfortunately was wet, but we all smiled past it and enjoyed the day.
My fiance and I where also very honoured to be in the bridal party (My very first time being a bridesmaid) It's the year of weddings in our family!!
Oh FYI my brother was in a motor bike accident about 3 weeks before the wedding so that explains the crutches/ wheel chair.
So now for some pictures to enjoy!
My fiance and I where also very honoured to be in the bridal party (My very first time being a bridesmaid) It's the year of weddings in our family!!
Oh FYI my brother was in a motor bike accident about 3 weeks before the wedding so that explains the crutches/ wheel chair.
So now for some pictures to enjoy!
Girls getting ready
Boys getting ready
The wedding rings
Tiffany giving me my gift
Groom & groomsmen ready to go
The Ceremony
Mr & Mrs Williamson
Gorgeous Mika as flower girl
Photo Time
At the Light house
The silly bridal party
More crazy bridal party
Our family
The happy little family
Fish Bowel Centre
Speech Time
The wedding cake
Cutting the cake
First dance (in a wheel chair)
Thursday, February 7, 2013
Starting to Stress Out...
So this wedding planning stuff is really starting to stress me out. I have so much going on in my real life that the idea of trying to plan a wedding on top of that is almost impossible!
As I have mentioned before my fiance has epilepsy and it's been a major medical condition that is impacting our lives. He is back in hospital for another week long study to see is surgery is an option. I am so busy at work as we lost a staff member last month that I couldn't even go away with him, so his amazing mother had to take him.
Then to add to the drama we have some stupid people complaining they aren't getting an invite to the wedding. It makes me furious, firstly you wouldn't come even if we did invite you and secondly we have a max of 50 guests! Our family alone is 12 people.
Then to add to my worries money is becoming a focus point. We had a number in mind for a budget and I had an idea on what i was happy to pay for things, but the prices are moving out of control faster then I was expecting. This is creating extra work for me as I need to research prices in Thailand to make sure I'm not getting ripped off. (Just so you know I'm not, my prices I have been getting are the lower end)
I'm going to catch up with my mum in the next few weeks to nut out what it's actually costing us.
But all in all I am one stressed out bride to be that is for sure. I so didn't what to be.
As I have mentioned before my fiance has epilepsy and it's been a major medical condition that is impacting our lives. He is back in hospital for another week long study to see is surgery is an option. I am so busy at work as we lost a staff member last month that I couldn't even go away with him, so his amazing mother had to take him.
Then to add to the drama we have some stupid people complaining they aren't getting an invite to the wedding. It makes me furious, firstly you wouldn't come even if we did invite you and secondly we have a max of 50 guests! Our family alone is 12 people.
Then to add to my worries money is becoming a focus point. We had a number in mind for a budget and I had an idea on what i was happy to pay for things, but the prices are moving out of control faster then I was expecting. This is creating extra work for me as I need to research prices in Thailand to make sure I'm not getting ripped off. (Just so you know I'm not, my prices I have been getting are the lower end)
I'm going to catch up with my mum in the next few weeks to nut out what it's actually costing us.
But all in all I am one stressed out bride to be that is for sure. I so didn't what to be.
Tuesday, January 1, 2013
Welcome 2013...
So 2012 is over and we are welcoming 2013 - the year we get married!!! I had a few goals and resolutions from last year so first thing, lets look over the year that was.
- Get serious with our wedding planning
I pick a date, sorted our venue, booked a photographer and started sorting out all the little things
- Send out Save the Dates
So bad me, hasn't posted them yet, I have created them but the guest list we have been trying to sort
- Focus on me!
I did well at this but really want to focus on it in 2013. I also lost about 10% of my body weight
- Travel More
- Manage Our Money
- Find my New Career
- Organise & De-clutter
- Take more Photo's
- Cook More
- Take more Photo's
- Get serious with our wedding planning
I pick a date, sorted our venue, booked a photographer and started sorting out all the little things
- Send out Save the Dates
We did travel this year, we went to Vanuatu, Melbourne and then I did a small cruise
- Manage Our Money
I really didn't do this, we ending up having a bit of a disposable income and we blew too much
I FOUND IT!! I am now a travel agent and love, love, love my job!
- Organise & De-clutter
Hmmm... well this didn't happen! lol So need to get onto it more and de-clutter
- Take more Photo's
I am doing Project 365 & want to have more personal pic's
- Cook More
Still not mastering this, if anything we ate more take-out due to being away more
So what was the best parts of 2012? The BEST was organising my brothers engagement party, such a wonderful night. The birth of my first niece, Mika. I have loved having her join the family tree. We started wedding planned, I can't wait to do more sorted this year.
I lost about 10% of my body weight and this year I am going to lose more, lots more! I got my dream job at Flight Centre and I love it. I can't wait to advance my career this year. We travelled to Vanuatu and I had a girls trip to Melbourne, lots of Sydney trips and a mini cruise. We had a wonderful Christmas break with our family and friends but mostly the best thing of all was seeing all our friends getting married, engaged and pregnant (so happy for them all!)
The worst part of the year was poor Ev having over fifty grand mal seizures, so many specialist appointments and hospitals. It sucks that 12 months on we still don't have an answer to why they can't stop the epilepsy (but fingers crossed for this year)
I missed having my sister-in-law around. She moved away mid year and I wish we could spend more time together. It's the same with my niece, Mika. I wish she was in my life more and I could see her grow up.
So now we welcome 2013 the year of big plans, happy times and much more travel. I have a few goals and resolutions so here they are to keep me focussed for the year ahead:
- Get MARRIED!
I can't wait to get married in Thailand - it's going to be a beautiful wedding!
I can't wait to get married in Thailand - it's going to be a beautiful wedding!
- Look Amazing & Be Healthy
I am going to get fit, healthy and look amazing by next summer
- Travel More
This will always be on my list, I was to do more and see more
- Manage Our Money
I am going to clear our debt's and become focussed on saving as we both want this
- Find my New Career
I'm still working on what this means exactly but I want to do something that challenges me
- Organise & De-clutter
Our house is in some serious need of a face lift. Make our home more user friendly!
- Take more Photo's
I am going to take more photo's this year as we have so many special events
- Cook More
We eat out a lot of the time, so I want to cook more at home, get adventurous in the kitchen!
Monday, December 17, 2012
The cost of a wedding...
The real cost of a wedding is something many people skim over and don't really know. People randomly pluck out a number '15' or '21' when really this number is often so far off the truth. Once you start adding the costs up, $80 for food times 100 people, reception hire, venue hire, photographer, dress, suit, flowers, cake, - all these simple things in a wedding add up quick, not to mention all the little things like spray tans, gifts, invites etc.
The Knot recently did some research that shows the average cost of a wedding is $27,000 - this number is staggering when I have set myself a strict budget of $15,000. I am lucky though, the cost of destination weddings are lower then the costs here in Australia.
At the moment I am working on my budget for the wedding (and my guest list) it's hard work trying to sort out what to expect and what to spend on each thing.
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
Dress shopping...
On the weekend I went to my friends house in Melbourne. She has just moved and I love that I can visit her now with all the great shopping! So to get me in the swing of things I made an appointment at a place called Fairytales Boutique. This store is located in Moonee Ponds and has plus size gowns, great for any brides looking to try on dresses in real sizes.
I had tried a few dresses on about 12 months ago, maybe even longer then that. I went with the same two friends that I tried dresses on with last time. They loved the dress I tried on and thought it was perfect. It was a discontinued gown and they only had one left and it was in my size. It was a nice dress but back then I wasn't ready to commit to something. I had all these plans to lose weight and really no dress I have fallen head over heels in love with. They are all nice dresses but nothing takes my breath away - but I think thats just how I am.
The dress I tried on this week was again an A-line gown but this one was strapless with a sweetheart neckline. You can add the sleeves on so thats what I would do, a little cap sleeve in the same fabric. I liked the way the fabric folded and how it moved when I walked. I also had a play with some ribbon and embellishment belts. They added that touch of detail I like and making it one of a kind. The dress is very simplistic and I am after a timeless look. It also had lace-up back to help pull everything in giving me a waist!
I wasn't ready to commit to a dress as yet but will be picking my dress early 2013. Wedding dresses take a long time to order in as they are made to order, so really I need it sorted 9 months out. I'm hoping by early next year I will have lost a bit more weight and then something like a lace up back gives me the freedom to go down a few sizes.
Anyone after plus size gowns or average sizes give these guys a call -
FAIRYTALES BOUTIQUE - MOONEE PONDS
I had tried a few dresses on about 12 months ago, maybe even longer then that. I went with the same two friends that I tried dresses on with last time. They loved the dress I tried on and thought it was perfect. It was a discontinued gown and they only had one left and it was in my size. It was a nice dress but back then I wasn't ready to commit to something. I had all these plans to lose weight and really no dress I have fallen head over heels in love with. They are all nice dresses but nothing takes my breath away - but I think thats just how I am.
This is the dress they loved me in...
I really loved the fact the dress has sleeves on it. I have large breast and need to wear a bra with what ever I pick. I can't wear a strapless gown. It crosses over and has a pattern around the waist then falls in an A-line with soft fabric and a small train.
And this is the dress I dried on last week...
I wasn't ready to commit to a dress as yet but will be picking my dress early 2013. Wedding dresses take a long time to order in as they are made to order, so really I need it sorted 9 months out. I'm hoping by early next year I will have lost a bit more weight and then something like a lace up back gives me the freedom to go down a few sizes.
Anyone after plus size gowns or average sizes give these guys a call -
FAIRYTALES BOUTIQUE - MOONEE PONDS
343 - 345 Ascot Vale Rd, Moonee Ponds 3039
Phone: (03) 9326 0055
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
A villa or resort...
We have been weight up two options for our wedding venue. A private villa or a resort wedding. This was really hard because we had a few requirements and things we really wanted.
So the things we wanted are:
When I looked at the two venues, the resort was stunning but going to cost my gusts an arm and a leg.
I really don't want people to complain about being forced into a resort so the villa offered accommodation for our immediate family and everyone else can pick something that fit into their personal budget. The villa is sounding like a slightly cheaper option as our family will contribute to the accommodation cost and this option gives us privacy from the public and a great view.
The resort has perks too. We really wanted a baby elephant for the wedding. You can only have this with a resort. They are equipped for handling weddings, they do it all the time. They can run it quickly and efficiently. So I am sure you can understand why this was so hard to pick!!
BUT...
We booked a venue! So after lots of back and forward between the idea of a private villa or a resort wedding we made a decision and put a deposit down. It's a Private Villa called Baan Santisuk.
So the things we wanted are:
- A beautiful view for the ceremony
- Fireworks & sky lanterns at the reception
- A baby elephant &/ or baby tiger
- Privacy away from the public
- All in one venue for ceremony & reception
So what did I do - thats right we had to put together a pro's and con's list for the venues.
RESORT
- All the guests can stay at the one venue
- Can have a baby elephant & sky lanterns (at some resorts)
- Venue rooms already available with everything
- Not a unique look, get stuck with less freedom of choice on style
- Less privacy due to the public resort with guests
VILLA
- Freedom for guests to pick accommodation that meets any budget
- Can't have a baby elephant or sky lanterns
- Need to hire in all the tables, chairs & equipment for the wedding
- Lots of privacy for us with great view
- Doubles as accommodation & no cut off time
This is Sala Phuket Resort
Or the Private Villa option
When I looked at the two venues, the resort was stunning but going to cost my gusts an arm and a leg.
I really don't want people to complain about being forced into a resort so the villa offered accommodation for our immediate family and everyone else can pick something that fit into their personal budget. The villa is sounding like a slightly cheaper option as our family will contribute to the accommodation cost and this option gives us privacy from the public and a great view.
The resort has perks too. We really wanted a baby elephant for the wedding. You can only have this with a resort. They are equipped for handling weddings, they do it all the time. They can run it quickly and efficiently. So I am sure you can understand why this was so hard to pick!!
BUT...
We booked a venue! So after lots of back and forward between the idea of a private villa or a resort wedding we made a decision and put a deposit down. It's a Private Villa called Baan Santisuk.
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