Moody in the very best way, with all the feels you could want on your wedding day, this incredible Tassie elopement (we’re talking literally zero guests here, people) is not one to miss. Nicole and Bernie have been an item for seven years and were so set on an elopement they say, “We wouldn’t get married if having a big wedding was the only option.” No regrets, guys! One of our faves, Jon Gazzignato documented the day, so do yourself a favour and scroll down…
THE VENUE “We had no idea about Flinders Island. It was first brought to our attention over a Zoom chat with Jon Gazzignato in January 2021. I’m a lover of mountains and Bernie loves the sea. We are both adventurous and wanted somewhere to escape to along the path less travelled. Flinders Island (Palana) ticked those boxes. To date, it is the most incredible place we have ever been and it will forever hold a very special place in our hearts.”
FAVE DETAILS “Wombat Lodge (On Island Time) as a whole. The land that it stands on is truly magnificent and the way in which the lodge is decorated really fits our style. They even had E-Bikes which we used during lunchtime on our elopement to explore the rugged land which met the sea.”
THE DRESS “Wanting a one of a kind black gown immediately cancelled out going to bridal shops and picking a dress from a rack but I’d never worn a gown let alone had anything custom made for me so I was a bit anxious at first. From my first meeting with Ashleigh Jane Bridal to going fabric shopping with her, to the numerous fittings and final collection, the experience was exciting, fun and I felt comfortable throughout.”
REFERENCES “As a photographer myself, the most important vendor to lock in was the Photographer. All I did was search instagram #tasmanianelopementphotographer and Jon Gazzignato immediately spoke to both of us due to his ability to capture real and raw moments with an alternate arty flair, utilising available light and interesting angles. Jon helped us figure out the rest, with booking in his lifelong mate Dave as our Celebrant and his wife as the second witness.”
LITTLE LOL “The day before and the day after were sunny and calm, but our elopement day was anything but. It rained and there were galeforce winds, like nothing we had ever experienced before. We had to change our original plan of hiking up a mountain to taking advice from local fishermen as to where a protected area could be to tie the knot. We took it in our stride and laughed about it all day. We also ordered a lobster to cook ourselves for dinner and when the time came we had no idea what we were doing. A quick message to Jo, the owner and five minutes later she was at the lodge with a glass of wine telling us to sit down and enjoy our night whilst she cooked for us. Celebrant Dave and Jon’s wife came to pick up Jon but we invited them for a few drinks and a few hours later, we were all a bit tipsy and cut the cake together. Every time we see the cake cutting photo we laugh.”
STANDOUT VENDORS “Jon Gazzignato was absolutely perfect for us. He matched our energy, made us feel comfortable and able to be ourselves and captured so many stunning moments. He is the reason we eloped on Flinders Island and had the adventurous day we dreamed of. Jo, the property owner of Wombat Lodge, On Island Time, went above and beyond. She made sure the fire was roaring for us when we returned from our adventures and then cooked us dinner. Celebrant Dave was a dream. We gave him entire control over what to say and we had absolutely no idea until our ceremony. He picked a poem for us which couldn’t have been more perfect to describe our relationship. He even had it printed for us when we received our marriage certificate. Lastly, Ashleigh Jane Bridal who made my dress from scratch was so easy to connect with.”
After the incredible words about Jon Gazzignato above, how could you not want to take a look at more of his weddings? Well, we have got your back, friends. You’ll find that, along with a little about him and his contact deets over over on our Directory here. But first…
CONTRIBUTING VENDORS Photographer Jon Gazzignato Ceremony Palana Reception, Catering & Cake On Island Time (Wombat Lodge) Celebrant Celebrant Dave Rings Custom Jewellery Co (Nicole) & Etrnl (Bernie) THE BRIDE Bridal Gown Ashleigh Jane Bridal Leather Jacket Scotch & Soda Hat Will + Bear Shoes R.M. Williams Accessories Maya via Alexandra (Earrings) Hair DIY (Bride) Makeup DIY & Megan Dent (Makeup Lesson) THE GROOM Suit & Shirt Aquila Shoes R.M. Williams Watch Garmin Grooming Barber On George Launceston
