Did you see the couple on Tik Tok who got engaged during the Aussie leg of Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour? That was Megan and Justin!
When it came to curating their dream day, this creative couple, who both work in architecture, were on the same page from the get-go. “Elegant, timeless and classy,” was the brief, an indoor wedding venue with “strong architectural character and beautiful details”. So when they visited the spot that would become their space – Sophia at The Prahran Arcade – it was, understandably, “love at first sight”.
Lucky us got to chat with the newlyweds about how they used draping to put their stamp on the space and how the bride styled that gorgeous Karen Willis Holmes gown throughout the celebrations. Scroll on for all that plus moments caught by O Lemonade who “captured the day perfectly”. Be forewarned, this soiree is next-level beautiful – prepare for your jaw to hit the floor.
AN ARCHITECTURALLY STUNNING MELBOURNE SPACE
“We were immediately drawn to Sophia at Prahran Arcade for the heritage façade and its intricate details. The arched windows, façade ornaments, and grand columns give off a timeless and classical look. Our ceremony took place in The Ballroom, an elegant space with a fireplace, ornate chandeliers, and a breathtaking balcony overlooking Chapel Street. One of our favourite features was the bar that sits between the ceremony and reception spaces, which created a natural transition point and a perfect area for our guests to enjoy canapés before the reception began. The clean, elegant layout of The Gallery (our reception space) was exactly what we were looking for. The 60-metre-long room offered a sense of intimacy, while the soaring ceiling gave us the opportunity to finally bring our dream draping installation to life.”
ROMANTIC, TRANSFORMATIVE DRAPING
“One of our favourite design elements from the reception was the draping installation. The soaring ceiling in The Gallery gave us the perfect canvas to completely transform the space, and the soft, flowing drapes added a beautiful sense of intimacy to the long, narrow room. The draping created a romantic, almost ethereal atmosphere, softening the tall edges of the space, perfectly framing the arched windows, and drawing the eye upward to emphasise the incredible ceiling height. It also visually anchored the dining tables below, making the room feel warm, inviting, and cohesive while still maintaining its grand, architectural presence.”
KAREN WILLIS HOLMES WEDDING DRESS
“My dress was from Karen Willis Holmes, and it was everything I had dreamed of. The gown featured the Lou-Lou Dip Corseted Bodice with a flattering scooped neckline, layered with hand-draped Mikado for a structured yet romantic look. The basque waistline beautifully elongated my torso and highlighted my waist in the most elegant way. I paired it with the Julianne Skirt, whose gathered waist created a full ball gown silhouette with dramatic volume and timeless grace. For the ceremony, I styled the gown with a silk satin scarf, a two-tiered Claude veil, and a sleek backless bun.”
THE TEA CEREMONY
“Our tea ceremony was hands down one of our favourite moments of the entire day. It was such an intimate and emotional time just the two of us with our parents. From the very first moment, the tears started flowing. Serving tea to our parents and thanking them for everything they’ve done for us was incredibly moving. It gave us the space to pause, reflect, and express our gratitude for the years of love, sacrifice, and support that brought us to this day.”
WEAVING IN WORSHIP
“We’re both devoted Christians, so it was very important to us to honour God in our marriage. Right after Megan walked down the aisle, we had a worship session where everyone joined in singing The Heart of Worship and I Give You My Heart. It was our way of dedicating our marriage to Jesus in front of everyone we love.”
O Lemonade has done it again! If you’re looking for a Victoria wedding photographer, get in contact and see more weddings O Lemonade’s lens has captured of late. Fallen hard for Megan’s choice of bridal frock? Check out Karen Willis Holmes designs on the directory or catch their 25th anniversary collection. Then waltz over to our Real Weddings to get inspired by more elegant, classy and ethereal ‘I do’s’.
CONTRIBUTING VENDORS Photographer O Lemonade Cinematographer Louis Lim Florist Memori Flowers Draping Stylist The Curated Details Venue Sophia at Prahran Arcade via The Atlantic Group Catering The Atlantic Group Cake Maker Get Caked By Lisa Photo Booth Rewind Booths Sound Hire MVK Studios Celebrant Pastor Rowena Low Rings Janai THE BRIDE Bridal Gown & Veil Designer Karen Willis Holmes Makeup Marlene Neysa Hair Cens Artistry Fragrance Dior THE GROOM Suit The Suit Concierge Shirt & Shoes Peter Jackson Watch Rolex via Watches of Switzerland Grooming Sui Hair Salon
