A Canadian and an Aussie who first met in Europe — Katie and Rob’s love story has taken them around the world, with their nups marking a special and rare opportunity to gather nearest and dearest from across the world all in one place. From dabbling with long distance, navigating visas, and “constantly re-establishing” themselves in new cities, the pair share that “It’s not always been easy, but it’s always been worth it. Following our hearts and choosing each other has absolutely been the easiest decision we’ve ever made!”
The Terrace in Melbourne’s Royal Botanical Gardens was where the two tied the knot — an idyllic spot that “did the heavy lifting” in fulfilling the “romantic garden party” theme. Dynamic photography duo Kat Soutar and Scout Kozakiewicz (aka It’s Beautiful Here) caught all the sentimental moments, including ‘Cultural Power Hour’ and Maisy the dachshund in her floral collar (cute!!) Get ready to ‘ooh’ and ‘ahh’ at all the bloomin’ beaut’ details below.
THE VENUE “Whenever we discussed our dream wedding, it always had an element of nature embedded in it. We kept our focus on venues in the city as we knew the logistics would be easier, particularly for all our international guests. We were so fortunate to secure The Terrace in the Royal Botanic Gardens. It’s truly an oasis in the heart of the city, transporting you away from the hustle and bustle of urban life.”
THE DRESS “I was so deeply fortunate to get both of my wedding dresses from my partner’s family business, Raffaele Ciuca Bridal. [Rob’s grandparents started the business], and it is now run by his mother and Auntie. When living in Melbourne on my working holiday visa, I actually worked as a bridal stylist for a few months, so it was a total full circle moment to be back at the shop with all the incredible staff to find my dream dress. I was absolutely spoiled throughout the entire experience. The staff at Raffaele Ciuca feel like family to me so getting my dress from there was one of the most special parts of my wedding planning experience.”
MEMORABLE MOMENT “One moment we will never forget is our first look. We both had this intense feeling of anticipation leading up to it, I remember walking down the hall and seeing Rob on the balcony. We were both overwhelmed with love, and it was so special to share that moment alone before the rest of the craziness began.”
COOL CUSTOM “At around 10 PM, we did a CULTURAL POWER HOUR. Essentially, this was an hour where we played half Italian music and half country songs. I’m from Alberta, which is like the Texas of Canada. So we got everyone two-stepping to country and did the Cadillac Ranch, an iconic line dance that Rob’s family prepared for, with many practice sessions leading up to the wedding. After the country, it was so fun to see everyone up for the Italian music. All our friends got around the Nonnas, and then everyone ran around like mad for the Tarantella. Iconic!!”
LITTLE LOL “At one point during the reception, a giant spider scurried across the floor. One of our fearless guests, Phoebe, captured it and took it outside. For the Canadians, seeing a spider that big was a shock, but at least it made the affair authentically Australian!”
STANDOUT VENDORS “Our photographers (It’s Beautiful Here) and videographer (Sommar Films) were AMAZING – they made everyone feel so comfortable, perfectly captured the vibe, and the photos/videos are pieces of art that we will cherish for the rest of our lives! Our celebrant, Fiona, was beyond incredible, and I cannot mention vendors without shouting out Em from Rose Studios. Her florals were all we really needed when it came to décor, and they did not disappoint.”
Fallen hard for these happy snaps by It’s Beautiful Here? Explore more of their epic weds here on the Hello May Directory. It’s also where you’ll find The Terrace — a must-visit venue for all you floral fans out there. Speaking of florals, we’ve served up some seriously delish Spring Soiree inspo here. Or maybe you’re in the mood for some more real weddings with a garden party vibe. Get around these dream days, or pop into your local newsagent to pick up the just-released annual issue of Hello May!
CONTRIBUTING VENDORS Photographer It’s Beautiful Here Cinematographer Sommar Films Florist & Cake Topper Rose Studios Stationery Kaitlyn Taschuk (Bride) Printer Press Print Digital Ceremony Venue Taxodium Lawn, Royal Botanic Gardens Reception Venue The Terrace Catering Curtis Stone Events & The Terrace Cake Maker Good Good Cake Hire Items Weddings of Distinction Signage Kaitlyn Taschuk (Bride) & Acrylic Blanks Celebrant Fiona Garrivan Rings Cullen Jewellery (Bride) & Brothers Jewellery (Groom) THE BRIDE Bridal Gown Designer Vera Wang Bride (Ceremony & Party Dress) Bridal Boutique & Veil Raffaele Ciuca Bridal Getting Ready PJs TheSleeper PJs (Bride), Kmart & Amazon Shoes Gucci Accessories Bixby and Co & Zara Nails C Nail Studio Hair Caitlin Robinette Makeup Clara Campbell & Ahz Beauty Fragrance Le Labo Bridesmaid Dresses Petal & Pup, Meshki, Revolve & V Chapman Bridesmaid Gifts Kmart & Kept Handmade (Bride) THE GROOM Suit, Jacket, Shirt, Pants & Bow Tie P.Johnson Cufflinks Gucci via Raffaele Ciuca Bridal Shoes Aquila Watch Vincero Barber Bassette Groomsmen Suits Cambridge Clothing
