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Jess & Luke’s Melbourne wedding

Jess & Luke’s Melbourne wedding

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A sophisticated, understated and elegant micro Melbourne wedding – that’s how Luke (a software engineer) and Jess (French teacher-turned-artist) chose to tie the knot. With 42 of their favourite people along for the ride, the pair exchanged vows at the Victorian Marriage Registry within the city’s historic Treasury Building. They followed with feasting and festivities at Cumulus Inc, conveniently located just across the road. 

Jess and Luke told us that, rather than leaning into tradition, they’re glad they did things their way and, given the celebration’s “relatively simple logistics”, they were able to organise the whole thing in a swift seven months! In our chat with the newlyweds below, Jess and Luke sing the praises of their photographer Rolan John (understandably so!) and share with us some sweet, sentimental, and serendipitous mems from their big day.

FAVE DETAILS “The bouquet [from Geranium Studio]! I had sent over some inspo images featuring moody, rich hues of burgundy and caramel, not being too precise in terms of the type of flowers and wanting something loosely constructed. When the bouquet arrived, Luke and I were blown away – billowing dusty apricot roses and Dahlia cornels among so many other amazing varieties. Just perfect.”

MEMORABLE MOMENT (Jess) “When Luke was saying his vows, the emotion in his voice is something I’ll never forget. I also loved talking to all our guests at the reception, which was easy to do, as we were seated at two long tables. Also, seeing my mum and dad alone on the dance floor at the end of the night was incredibly special.” (Luke) “Saying our vows – the solemnity of what we were saying to each other really hit home. They were the formalities we went through before I could say Jess was my wife, and once that was done, the rest of the day and evening was pure joy.”

THE TUNES “We were super organised, but for some reason hadn’t thought about music for our entrance (we spontaneously walked down the aisle together, arm in arm, as we thought we’d already be in the room with everyone when it was time to begin!). I didn’t want to walk down the aisle with my dad because it would have been too emotional for me. Our celebrant suggested some classical music, and Canon in D (Pachelbel’s Canon) came on, which was actually really moving and beautiful, and the most traditional aspect of our wedding!”

STANDOUT VENDORS “Our photographer, Rolan. His calm and unobtrusive demeanour really helped us stay relaxed and enjoy the day. His assuredness in what he wanted from us made it really easy in front of the camera. The results speak for themselves – we’ve got a fantastic mix of candid photos as well as the more formal ones. Our favourites are the more documentary-style snaps that Rolan has a real gift for; he captures a beautiful softness, light, shadow, and colour in his work. As we were walking around the CBD, we could see the twinkle in his eye as he was taking in the surroundings and working out the composition. Also, the staff at Cumulus who gave personalised, attentive, and friendly service. They were so professional but also warm and welcoming, and thanks to them, it really did feel like our own, exclusive space.”

WE’RE GLAD WE… “Did it our way, and didn’t succumb to what other people may expect.”

Reckon Rolan John might be your dream photographer? Well, we reckon you’ve got mighty good taste. Reach out and see more of Rolan’s work here. Then duck over to the directory to find more awesome vendors in Melbourne and beyond. Or visit the blog for micro-wedding/elopement inspo that you (and your Pinterest board) will love.

CONTRIBUTING VENDORS 

Photographer Rolan John Florist Ramble (now Geranium Studio), Vasette Stationery Vistaprint Ceremony Venue Victorian Marriage Registry Reception Venue Cumulus Inc. Cake Maker Mad About Cakes Entertainment Orlando Combo Celebrant Mark Jonasz via Victorian Marriage Registry Rings Natasha Schweitzer Transport Who’s Driving You? – City Hire Cars THE BRIDE Bridal Gown Designer Shona Joy Alterations Zeena Alterations Shoes Sarah Jessica Parker Accessories Dinosaur Designs Hair Cutting Edge Malvern Makeup Jess (Bride) Fragrance Minois THE GROOM Suit & Jacket Lardini Shirt & Pants HugoBoss Shoes Stefano Stefani via Luisa

Jess & Luke’s Melbourne wedding

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