In the lead up to their wedding Ari and Tom wondered if they’d bitten off more than they could chew. “One of our bridesmaids told us it was a Japanese tradition to fold 1000 paper cranes this would bring 1000 years of happiness to the bride and groom. So that is just what we did”, says Ari who believe it or not, also did all the styling, stationery and wedding favours.
Held at The Grounds of Alexandria in New South Wales and photographed by Bless Photography Ari tells us, “We wanted the day to be quirky, fun, non-traditional and unique. At the beginning of the reception, we had an origami competition’ where we had all our guests folding paper cranes, boats or planes, to see who would get dinner first – they loved it!”
The food did indeed look fabulous (especially their scrumptious cake by All Things Sweet by Carissa) as did Ari, who wore a blush coloured gown by Barino. “It was the first dress I tried on, and I bought it straight away, at the bargain price of $450.” Tom on the other hand, wore a pair of custom made Nike’s. “My husband wears Nikes every day of his life, so it was only right he wore them on our wedding day!”
With Ari’s uncle and his band keeping guests entertained and Tom’s brother in-law conducting the ceremony, it was certainly a family affair filled with plenty of laughs and happy tears, as well as a few kind words. “My favourite moment was my husband’s speech – we were both in tears, it was so moving. He is normally so easy going and relaxed, seeing him so emotional really got to me. He also managed to incorporate a bit of beat-boxing and some costumes in to it… what a guy!”
CREDITS Photos Bless Photography // Bridal gown Barino // Shoes Enzo Angiollini via Ebay // Flowers Chanel Rose // Jewellery Thomas Sabo // Bridesmaids dresses Forever New // Groom and groomsmen suits Country Road // Groom and groomsmen shoes Nike // Ties Blaq via Myer // Ceremony, reception and catering The Grounds of Alexandria // Cake All Things Sweet by Carissa // Hair Makeup by Claire // Makeup Stephanie Gangi // Music DJ Edo and Rhythm Knights // Transport Kombi Style.