On a beautiful Balinese beach, vacationing with their fam, Josh decided to ask Candace that all-important question. He must have been giving off a pretty cool’n’calm demeanour because, impressively, Josh managed to surprise his future bride plus most of their family! “I turned, and Josh dropped to one knee with the ring to propose to me in front of our families. They were all screaming and crying in shock.”
The couple of eight years kicked married life off with a banging Melbourne party bursting with colour. And speaking of colour, let’s admire this amaze flock of bridesmaids frocks (do we spy some Bec + Bridge? You bet we do). Meanwhile, Candace stole the show (as she should) in a gorg Karen Willis Holmes gown. We recently caught up with the newlyweds who gave a special shout-out to some of their vendor MVPs, including celebrant Weddings by Sheridan, Lunar Red Films, and Madeline Kate Photography – the talented lady behind these joy-inducing pics. Lovers of all things bright and bold, scroll on; this one’s for you!
FAVE DETAILS “We loved our colour theme and how much it stuck out. Everything was simple but popped! Another favourite feature was our wall piece from Bangin Hangins and the neon sign from Electric Confetti as well. The words on the neon are Josh’s Grandma Glenys famous words that she would say to her loved ones: ‘Love you big and high’. Sadly, she passed away in October 2022 before our proposal.”
DIY “My sister helped us a lot with designing and styling. She designed the colour theme and all the stationery, including the invites, menus, welcome board, seating chart and handwritten table name tags. She was my saviour! Most of these items were produced using the Canva app.”
THE DRESS “I fell in love with my dress from the beginning. [Karen Willis Holmes] was the first venue we went to, and it was the second dress I tried on. Every dress afterwards just didn’t compare! My overall experience with Karen Willis Holmes was great! The staff were wonderful and very helpful at each appointment. All alterations were quick and easy, and every request was accommodated without hesitation.”
WE’RE GLAD WE… “We were really glad we did everything how we wanted to rather than following traditions. We didn’t do a first dance or cut the cake. We did a ‘first look’ before our ceremony and had our photos taken before the wedding or any usual formal formalities. We wanted to ensure that once we arrived at our wedding, we celebrated our day as much as we could with our favourite people. It was the best decision we made!”
A WORD OF ADVICE “Take it all in! It’s a crazy and long experience planning a wedding. Just remain positive during those stressful moments because, at the end of the day, everyone will have an awesome time. Don’t sweat the small stuff!”
STANDOUT VENDORS “Our photographer, Madeline Kate, is soooo amazing! Maddie goes above and beyond to make sure the vibe on the day is high! She combines music and dancing whilst taking photos in scouted locations, resulting in the most amazing, colourful photos. Our celebrant, Weddings by Sheridan, was the best. Sheridan told our story perfectly and captured us as a couple. She had everyone laughing, smiling and crying throughout the ceremony. Our videographer Carlo, Luna Red Films, produced an absolutely amazing video of our special day. Carlo fitted in so well with Maddie, and they just bounced off each other all day with big smiles on their faces. He captured all the special moments while highlighting the amazing party and d-floor that concluded the night!”
Candace’s Karen Willis Holmes number caught your eye? Firstly, fab taste. Find them (and your dream frock) on the Hello May Directory here. Then, with your fit sorted, skip over to Bec + Bridge for your bridesmaid’s and pre-wedding-day celebration looks. Need a fantastic celebrant to complete your dream team? Look no further than our dear friend Weddings by Sheridan here. You’ll want to re-live all the sweet and sentimental moments, so while you’re at it, why not flick Lunar Red Films a message here?
CONTRIBUTING VENDORS Photographer Madeline Kate Photography Cinematographer Lunar Red Films Florist Flower Head Events Stationery Canva Venue The Craft & Co Lighting Hire Rinaldo Entertainment & Production Signage Bangin Hangins Entertainment & Sound Hire Woodley DJ Services Celebrant Sheridan Newnham (Weddings By Sheridan) Rings Melbourne Jewellery Designers Audio Guest Book At The Beep Neon Sign Electric Confetti THE BRIDE Bridal Gown Designer Karen Willis Holmes Veil Bree Conte (Friend) Robes / Getting Ready Tees Etsy Shoes Alias Mae Accessories Amelie George Bridal Hair Laura Dunstan Makeup Catherine Hughes Fragrance/Perfume Chanel Bridesmaid Dresses Shona Joy, Rebecca Vallance, Bec + Bridge, Suboo & L’idée Bridesmaid Shoes Billini Bridesmaid Gifts Mecca, JT Luxe, Etsy THE GROOM Suit, Shirt, Pants, Shoes, & Bow Tie Mens Suit Warehouse Cufflinks Anthony Squires Barber / Grooming Revan Hanna Groomsmen Suits Mens Suit Warehouse
