You don’t need to leave the Southern Hemisphere to have a Mediterranean-esque wedding. Take, for example, Sammy and David’s nuptials, captured by Wild Romantic Photography. Romantic, fun, and a little whimsical, the couple’s day was a story of apricot and lemon hues, blooms interwoven with produce, and Tuscan-inspired style. “Our guests are still talking about the gorgeous venue in the Royal Botanic Gardens (Gardens House) and the summer evening vibes with the balmy air and festoon lighting. It created such a magical, relaxed atmosphere that everyone really loved.”
Below the couple have blessed us with tonnes of good intel (think fave moments, advice, last-minute wedding day additions). And don’t worry, there’s rows and rows of pretty pictures for your moodboard too.
TUSCAN VIBES, MELBOURNE VENUE
“Our dream was to get married in Tuscany, but we wanted to make sure our loved ones could be there, so we looked for the closest thing in Melbourne. We wanted an outdoor ceremony and reception, with beautiful summer lighting to capture that Tuscan style atmosphere. We also knew we wanted an intimate wedding, and Gardens House was perfect. It could host 60 guests without needing a marquee, which was exactly what we were looking for.”
THE FIRST LOOK
“If we had to pick some favourite moments, it would be the first look. It was a whirlwind of emotions… excitement, nervousness, adrenaline, happiness, and even tears of joy. It was the first time we embraced and kissed that day, and it felt incredibly special. To make it even more magical, our song started playing in the background completely unplanned. Another moment that really stands out is standing together at the ceremony in front of our loved ones. and realising we had everyone we cared about in one place, celebrating us. It was so meaningful to have our families and friends come together (especially when some live overseas and interstate) and share that day with us.”
A BILINGUAL CEREMONY
“Having a bilingual celebrant/MC was really important because it meant everyone, including family members who speak a different language, could fully participate in the ceremony. We also had the speeches translated into Vietnamese in text so guests could follow along, which made the day feel inclusive and special for our loved ones.”
OPTING OUT OF CAKE AND BRIDAL PARTY
“Figure out your non-negotiables versus the ‘nice-to-haves’ and don’t feel pressured to include things just because they’re traditional. For example, we didn’t have a wedding cake since dessert was already being served, and we didn’t have official bridesmaids or groomsmen. We got ready with our friends, who were a big part of the day, but that structure just wasn’t important to us. Another tip is to balance taking photos with being present with your guests. The day goes by so quickly, so figure out a schedule that allows you to enjoy the moments rather than just ticking things off a list. The best advice is to stay true to who you are as a couple, that’s what will make the day feel special and unique to you.”
LAST MINUTE WEDDING ADD-ONS
“We’re so glad we opted for a wedding content creator at the last minute. It was amazing to be able to see footage the very next day while we were still on such a massive high. I also decided at the last minute to have a second dress, and it was the best decision ever! So fun and easy to dance in. Other than that, there isn’t anything we wish we hadn’t done. If anything, we probably stressed about the small stuff leading up to the day. Soaking it in and being present is really the most important part of the day.”
More Euro-inspired wedding goodness you say? Why, of course! Get some ideas from the pros with this European-inspired wedding styling shoot. Or get inspired by these real garden party style ‘I do’s across Aus and NZ. For heartfelt ‘First Look’ moments click here or to see more of Wild Romantic Photography’s handiwork check out Ella May and Guy’s Melbourne Wedding.
CONTRIBUTING VENDORS Photographer Wild Romantic Photography Cinematographer Dylan Dirks Content Creator MTL Socials Event Planner, Catering, Lighting & Sound Hire Atlantic Group Stylist & Florist Evolve Floral Stationery & Signage Natalie Deluca (Family) Printer Officeworks Venue Gardens House via Atlantic Group Entertainment Hey Jack, Abel Firew Celebrant/MC Yarra Events Rings Cartier Transport Always Classic Cars Parasols & Paper Fans Facebook Marketplace, Amazon THE BRIDE Bridal Gown Designer Khya Veil Bridal by Valeria via Etsy Second Dress Drenusha Xharra Getting Ready Le Rose Shoes Charles & Keith Accessories Tenmashow via Etsy, Cartier Hair Kyrstal Hairstylist Makeup Makeup by Rachel Qi Fragrance D.S. & Durga via MECCA THE GROOM Suit, Jacket, Shirt, Pants & Tie The Suit Concierge Cufflinks Love Stones Australia via Etsy Shoes Aquila Watch Tissot
