As an events manager by trade, it’s no wonder that (first featured in the Real Wedding Special) Lucas’s proposal to Jess (co-owner of Eternal Elegance) was absolutely epic. Their engagement included dinner on a private yacht in Sydney Harbour followed by a surprise stop at Nielsen Park, this engagement was definitely one for the history books. £Lucas told me we had to walk up to the road to get a taxi home. As we went up the hill through the bush, I saw hundreds of candles lit and fairy lights hanging in a tree and in the shape of a heart on the floor. Lucas walked me to the heart and dropped to one knee and proposed. It was incredible. In a public space but it was so private and included all my favourite things.
Held at Chateau Serans just an hour outside Paris, the couple chose to get hitched in the country town where Lucas spent every weekend as a child. Dubbing the day £chic country, they utilised linens, silks, a vintage car and some super sentimental blooms by Lily Paloma to nail their intimate vibe.
£Our florist created everything I had imagined and more, a floral arch over the church door like I had never seen before! My bouquet and the bridesmaid’s bouquets were full of eucalyptus leaves which smelt like home for me. I cried when I first saw them and could smell Australia, explains Jess, adding that her favourite memory from the day is walking down the aisle to Lucas.
£It was such a wonderful feeling and, after I didn’t fall down the steep stairs that I was nervous about, I was really relaxed. I was lucky enough to have my dad walking me down toward the love of my life. My favourite song playing and (most) of my loved ones all in the same room. It was very special feeling, she tells us, also admitting that she bought the first
dress she tried on.
£The experience was great for me. I was always very clear on what I wanted and this made it easier. I always knew I wanted sleeves. I tried Elie Saab on first in Sydney and thought stupid to buy the first one you try’… and continued looking for months. Then by that time I had already moved to Paris, so I went into Pronovias and told them I wanted to try the Monet’ dress by Elie Saab. I put a deposit on it that day.
Clearly a feel good celebration, the festivities (beautifully photographed by The Kitcheners) went on into the early hours of the next day. Just ask the bride…I ended up on the dance floor in my morning robe and then passed out at 4am on top of my Elie Saab gown, on a lounge, near the back toilets. Party on, Jess!
Jess and Lucas’s destination wedding was originally featured in our third annual Real Wedding Special, on sale now and stocked in newsagents nationally. Search for your nearest stockist via suburb or postcode here, or shop online with Mag Nation or via the HM online store here.
CREDITS Photos The Kitcheners // Stylist Aurore Pielucha // Florist Lily Paloma // Stationery Fabulous Fancy Pants via Etsy // Ceremony û glise St Jean-Baptiste, France // Reception and catering Chateau Serans, France // Wedding favours Rusticjoysoap via Etsy // Photo booth CHEERZ // Lighting / sound hire Logistic Events // Rings MIDAS Jewellers // Bridal gown designer Elie Saab // Bridal boutique and veil Pronovias // Robes / getting ready tees James Coviello // Lingerie Chantal Thomass // Shoes Jimmy Choo // Hair and makeup Eternal Elegance // Bridesmaid dresses Alexandra Grecco, Issy Miake, Monique Lhuillier, Needle & Thread and ASOS // Suit Massimo Dutti // Tie / Bow tie De Fargara // Socks Ralph Lauren // Barber / grooming David Lucas.