For Eirini, a historian and Mark, an engineer, a backyard with a barbeque and some good Greek food was all they really wanted on their wedding day.
After Mark proposed at their favourite park overlooking Coogee Beach, Erin tells us they sat down and decided “we wanted something relaxed and intimate that reflected who we were. Mark had the great idea of having it in the backyard. We thought it was better to invest money in fixing our place up (painting, installing stairs, etc) than on hiring a venue for four hours”. And with a little help from LN Catering, Eco Party Box, Liana Raine and some wonderful friends and family, that’s exactly what they did. “We did pretty much everything ourselves, except for the catering. We made all the party favours from recycled tins, soil and herb clippings”. Erini’s multi-talented sister Christina was also around to design and make their weddings rings and stationary and style the reception.
With some added help from the wonderful world of online shopping, Erini also found a dress. “I hate shopping and trying on clothes so I started looking online for a dress and sending links to my sister who lives in the US. I think the one I chose was the first one she approved of and I ordered it straight away. I found it on Etsy from Leanne Marshall who is a US-based designer. It was perfect for a backyard wedding and so comfortable”, says Erini. Last but not least was Zabrina Wong, a Sydney based photographer with a fresh approach and Nisha Van Berkel – an industry favourite when it comes to hair and makeup.
Despite all the added extras however, Erini’s advice for other couples planning a wedding is this: “Don’t worry about other people’s perceived expectations of your wedding, or what you think a wedding should look like, or be like. The important bit is the decision you are making to be together and celebrating that with the people you love”.
CREDITS Photos Zabrina Wong // Bridal gown Leanne Marshall via Etsy // Flowers Sydney Flower Markets // Rings and jewellery Christina Elleni // Grooms suit, shoes and tie Country Road // Ceremony and reception private property, New South Wales // Catering LN Catering // Desert Liana Raine // Styling and stationary Christina Elleni Cox and Sia Cox // Hair and makeup Nisha Van Berkel