On their walk home from a romantic dinner for their six year anniversary, Rach jokingly hit Matt’s pocket as she noted how perfect the moment would be for a proposal. Little did she know moments before he’d removed the engagement ring he had hidden there – to do just that!
Rach and Matt are not the type to make a fuss, they’re both lovers of nature and the simpler things in life, meaning their 18 month engagement was a happy and stress free journey to creating the wedding they both wanted. “We both loved the idea of making it a weekend event, we had been to some day weddings and they just seemed to be over so quickly.”
Having visited the Hunter Valley for a wedding they decided that’s where they should marry, Rach adding, “We only looked at two other venues but they in no way compared to the Chateau Elan.” In the heart of the NSW bushland, Chateau Elan provided the perfect backdrop for their elegant affair, photographed by Matt Godkin with some seriously epic styling and floral work (not to mention signage!) from Hello May fave Eve from Blessed Days.
Rach admits they decided to forgo any DIY endeavours, adding “It would have ended in true disaster!” With the help of an army of some of the industry’s best, Rach and Matt put on a spectacular show for their family and friends, the pair admitting, “The vibe was casual, laid back, let the professionals do their thing and as long as we are both there on the day and someone is there to marry us, then nothing else matters.”
The dress hunting process was a surprisingly short one for Rach, who found her perfect gown at Hope X Page with the help of owner and all round talented gal, Alex. “The experience was everything I wanted…She showed me three dresses in total and I instantly fell in love with my Charlie Brear gown. She made the process so easy, from the purchase to the fittings and everything in between.”
When asked what marriage means to them, they said, “Teamwork, marrying someone who is your best-friend. It’s all about kindness, that’s the key…And admitting defeat (for Matt)!” We have a feeling that one came from Rach!
Looking for more weddings like this? Check out this gorgeous Hope X Page bride or pick up a copy of issues 9, 10, 11, 12 and 14 via our online store. You can also search for your nearest stockist if you are yet to grab a copy of the brand spanking new issue 15. Issue 13 is sold out which is all the more reason to pick up a copy whilst stock lasts.
CREDITS Photographer Matt Godkin // Stylist,Florist, Furniture Hire and Signage Blessed Days // Stationery Honeywell Print // Ceremony, Reception Venue and Catering Chateau Elan, Hunter Valley // Entertainment Advantage DJs // Wedding Bands Diamond Store // Bridal gown Charlie Brear via HOPE X PAGE // Robes and Lingere Bras n Things // Shoes Myer // Hair Edwards and Co // Makeup Samantha Lee Makeup // Bridesmaid dresses Camilla // Bridesmaid gifts Thomas Sabo // Groom and // Groomsmen Suits and shoes Roger David // Flower girl outfits 100 Squared // Page boy outfits Bardot Kids