From eloping in Croatia, to doing a runner at a registry office, Lauren and Sam ended up organising their wedding in three months, flat. “Ultimately, we decided it was more important to have our families with us and committed to staying in Perth.” Graphic designer by day, Lauren created the invitations and bar menu with a nod to the couple’s ten year relationship and time in NYC together, with the rooftop reception adding to the cool, city vibe. Photographer, Natasja Kremers was there to capture it all- even the cheeky pretzel stop- straight after the ceremony. “We were starving after neglecting to have lunch but it also acted as a nice regroup for two of us.” Fair enough!

THE THEME Minimal and modern. During planning, we described it as an elopement in our own city and that seemed to really set the tone.

THE VENUE We wanted something small and intimate with a focus on good food and drink. I enquired with Shadow Wine Bar, as I love the modern and industrial space, and it has a great wine list and excellent food. The manager recommended the rooftop at The Alex Hotel and the restaurant (an extension of the hotel) provided all catering, so we got the best of both worlds.

THE DRESS I decided to have a dress made, knowing I didn’t want something too traditional. Maevana is such a talented and uplifting person. Her enthusiasm was infectious and she kept me excited throughout the process. I hadn’t set out to to wear a colour, but after trying on the slip [also by the designer] that I will definitely wear again, I ended up planning the overlay and shoes around it. I took the overlay off at around 11pm and went out dancing in the slip.

A WORD OF ADVICE Don’t sweat the small things or let the pressure of what you ‘should’ do affect you. Consider everything that you like to do as a couple and share it with your friends and family!

WE’RE GLAD WE… We had this idea of allowing everyone to relax with a few drinks and a grazing table at the park before the ceremony started. This was a bit of a tactic on my behalf, as I was anxious about walking down the aisle. It allowed us to speak to all of our guests and thank them for coming- before standing up in front of them. Everyone was relaxed, happy, fed and had a drink in hand before we began the serious business.

STANDOUT VENDORS We emailed photographer, Natasja Kremers, before setting a date to make sure she would be available. I’ve loved her work for a long time and knew we wanted her to capture whatever we decided to do. She went above and beyond, guiding us through the day with such a lovely and calming influence. The Sir Botanical florists were phenomenal, too. They worked on a tight budget, keeping arrangements minimal but so beautiful.

VENDOR CREDITS Photographer Natasja Kremers Florist Sir Botanical Ceremony Hyde Park, Perth Reception The Alex Hotel Catering Shadow Wine Bar Food truck/cart Stampede Gelato Hire items M Events Celebrant The Wedding Celebrant Perth Ring Rosendorff THE BRIDE Bridal gown Maevana Shoes: Zomp Earrings Reliquia Hair Penny & Peach Makeup Brittany Mason Makeup THE GROOM Suit jacket Hugo Boss Shirt MJ Bale Pants Politix Shoes Tods Pet accessories Nice Digs