Emily and Tom, who first met in karate class as young kids, were tempted by a few wedding locations. But in the end, a nostalgic private property wedding in Bacchus Marsh, Victoria, was the right match for them. “It was Tom’s best man’s parents’ home, so he had so many happy childhood memories there, which ultimately made us choose the venue,” Emily explains. “Also, we liked the idea of not having a time restriction because we know our friends and family like to party, and not too many strict rules.”
In curating their formal yet relaxed day, this bride dove right into DIY mode. Oh, and readers digging Emily’s style will be pleased to hear about her own newly launched wedding planning service – First Look Studio. However, E&T weren’t alone in bringing their vision to life. They were “beyond blessed” with a talented ‘I do’ team, including photographer Hailey Birch aka Love Bomb. “Hailey captured exactly the moments we wanted,” the newlyweds shared.
Below, Emily and Tom zap us back to their marquee garden party, sharing the details on that incredible gown (which Emily styled with Lolaknight accessories –smart), sentimental moments, and their favourite aesthetic elements.
THE VIBE
“The theme was romantic, formal aesthetic, but with a relaxed feel. We didn’t want the formal look to make people feel as if they had to ‘be formal’ and that they could let their hair down and party.”
FAVE DETAILS
“We were obsessed with the sheer drapery over the tree with ‘T&E’ printed on it. It was created by our close friend Shan Proctor. It became the signature spot where everyone took photos. We also loved having the Aperol spritz lined up on the outdoor bar ready for guests once the ceremony was complete, because it just gave off the vibe of celebration. The flowers were also perfect, especially the [semicircle at] the end of the aisle. We felt it gave off a relaxed, comfortable vibe but still aligned with our theme. We also loved having everyone in black tie attire; everyone was dressed to the T.”
DIY
“I (Emily) undertook A LOT. All the stationery I organised myself. I purchased a template off Etsy for my invites and had them printed on Vistaprint. The wedding menu I designed on Canva and printed on A5 cream card. I wanted everyone to have a personalised menu with their name, so this took a long time. All the signage was completed by me and Shan Proctor, along with the help of my sturdy Cricut. I’m sure there’s more. It was a huge task, but definitely worth it.”
THE DRESS
“My dress was from Jane Hill Bridal. It was actually one of the first dresses I tried. However, I had a lot of alterations done to make it unique. My dress never originally had sleeves or the pearl detailing across the neck. This took a few months to get exactly how I wanted it. Divine Bridal was also able to make a custom veil, and I was obsessed!”
THE SUIT
“The suit was Eddy Elias, and the shirt was from YSG. The suits didn’t take long to find because I had been recommended this tailor by numerous people, and I knew what I was looking for. The experience was great at Eddie Elias; they were very professional and easy going.”
MEMORABLE MOMENT
“Probably when Em was walking down the aisle. We also had a moment before entering the reception where we were sitting with the bridal party inside, having a drink and talking about the ceremony. My best man’s speech was also loved by everyone and hilarious.” (Emily) “I treasured the morning getting ready with my bridal party and family. Reading their letters they had written to me was a memory I’ll cherish. Reading our vows was also very special, and I still get emotional watching them back. We both think one of the best moments was walking into the reception and dancing with all the wedding guests to Praise You.”
Love Bomb’s work behind the camera is much loved here in the HM office. Find Hailey of Love Bomb on the directory and you’ll understand why. Or click here to see how other chic-AF brides are styling their Lolaknight wedding day accessories. Fellow DIY’er? Our blog is full of like-minded couples – check it out. Or click here for more sweet-as-pie backyard nuptials.
CONTRIBUTING VENDORS Photographer Love Bomb Cinematographer Clique Films Event Planner I Do Crew Stylist, Stationary & Signage Emily Thacker – First Look Studio Florist Rose Studios Venue Private Property Catering & Staffing Holmes Hall Cake Three Tiers For Sweets Cake Topper ElegantIvyWeddings via Etsy Hire Items Celebrate Event Hire, Simple Is Best, Complete Function Hire Marquee Celebrate Event Hire Lighting Hire Celebrate Event Hire, Maddy Tibbles Sound Hire & Entertainment Cam Kettle, Maddy Tibbles Celebrant Samantha Youl – Youl Say I Do Rings Austen & Blake Transport White Classic Jags Portrait Location Sunnyside Villa Bathroom Hire Black Tie Toilets Portable AC Kennards Content Creator Bridal BTS M/C Lachlan Taylor via Holmes Hall THE BRIDE Bridal Gown Designer, Veil & Alterations Divine Bridal Bridal Boutique Jane Hill Robes Homebodii Shoes Billini Accessories Lolaknight Hair Caitlin Robinette Makeup Alessandra Maiolo Fragrance Elie Saab Bridesmaid/Bridesman Outfits Misha, YSG Tailors Bridesmaid Shoes Tony Bianco Bridesmaid Gifts Homebodii, Lolaknight, Colette, Amazon THE GROOM Suit, Jacket, Pants, Tie & Groomsmen Suits Eddy Elias Shirt YSG Tailors Cufflinks David Jones Shoes Julius Marlow Watch Tissot Grooming Overgrown Barbershop Groomsmen Gifts CN Woodworking
