Before Nathan proposed in December last year Ana knew where she wanted to host their special day. They planned their wedding at The Grounds of Alexandria in just three months, paying meticulous attention to the details. ‘We wanted a very relaxed garden party feel with very simple but thought out styling elements,’ says Ana.
Ana’s couture gown from Lilli Marcs in Paddington was inspired by the vintage garden party theme. A bouquet of white roses complemented the sleek gown featuring small crystal detailing. Ana’s bridesmaids, also in white, wore cocktail length strapless dresses by Manning Cartell while Nathan and his groomsmen looked equally smart in sky blue suit jackets. ‘We asked our guests to try and avoid wearing black as we wanted to create a fun, bright and vibrant atmosphere.’
The couple planned a short ceremony to allow them more party time with guests. Ana walked down the aisle to the song ‘At Last’ by Etta James, sung live. Personal details imbued the ceremony, ‘we wrote our own vows and my triplet brothers read a reading,’ says Ana.
The reception followed on from the ceremony; a live jazz band kicked in to create the party atmosphere. Persian music, in honour of the bride’s heritage, quickly saw guests young and old gliding onto the dance floor.
Styling was kept clean and simple so as not to detract from the garden beds and beautiful hanging lights. ‘I worked very closely with the Events team at the Grounds to create the table settings. These were jars I sourced from various suppliers. Our local market florist styled the jars with David Austin roses and lisianthus. The Grounds staff propped the rest of the jars with candles and heirloom vegetables in keeping with the gardens.’
Guests were treated to a styled cheese installation and a cocktail menu of fresh seafood and produce created specially by the Grounds chef. Nathan and Ana organised a roaming whiskey bar and an array of Persian sweets from a specialty store in Melbourne. ‘The wedding was everything we hoped for and more,’ says the pair.
Photography Tealily Photography Venue The Grounds of Alexandria Bride’s Dress Lilli Marcs Bridesmaids’ Dresses Manning Cartell Groom & Groomsmen Suits Saba, MJ Bale Celebrant Gina Kelly Hair Tina Sun of Joh Bailey Makeup Emily Onikul of Little Fox Makeup Jazz Band Angie Hubbard Wedding Cake Faye Cahill Videographer D’nM Wedding Films
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MW x