They say that ‘everything is bigger in Texas’, which means that wedding proposals are out of this world! Just ask Shelby and Steven, whose Lone Star State engagement was one for the books. “We went to the dance hall at night to watch a country band and Steven took me outside to look at the fairy lights that had been set up for the festive season. I momentarily turned around to look up at the lit up water tower, and when I turned back around Steven was on one knee! The first thing I said was, ‘are you serious!’ followed by ‘YES’ and uncontrollable tears of happiness.”
To add to the elation, Shelby had found out she was pregnant just two weeks before the proposal (which may’ve complicated the dress shopping experience just a smidge). “I was rushed for time trying on dresses as my tummy was rapidly growing. I knew exactly what I wanted, but to find one that was already made plus in my budget was a challenge. All the dresses in the shops were very new and so white. I wanted something different and something that had character. I ended up forgetting about looking until I went onto Etsy one day and found ‘the dress’. I knew straightaway that was it,” explains the bride, who wasn’t at a loss for favourite memories from the day.
From the moment they met photographer Bree of Carter and Rose Photography they knew they wanted her to be the one to capture their day. “Her style was exactly what we wanted and her warm, genuine personality made everyone comfortable and at ease. She’s like a ninja, we didn’t even know she was there most of the time!”
“My mum had organised with my six brothers to each dance with me before passing me onto my husband. It was a complete surprise. We danced to a song I have loved for a long time called ‘Sister’ by Jamie McDowell. It was a special moment and there wasn’t a dry eye in the room,” says Shelby.
Hoping to attain a fun and relaxed wedding where everyone could just enjoy themselves, this couple didn’t skimp on the do-it-yourself projects. Shelby and Steven recruited their closest friends and family to join in on the crafty chaos arranging flowers, reception decor, invites and more. “The whole wedding was very much a joint effort. There is so much value in DIY. At times, it was a little stressful but it made the day so much more special knowing so much hard work by our family and friends had gone into our special day.”
Shelby explains that their food for the evening was a delicious highlight, “Thomas (from Caviar Catering) just went above and beyond to make our table banquet. Nothing was ever a problem and the food was delicious!”
CREDTS Photos Carter and Rose Photography // Event Planner Kidz Party Shack // Ceremony and Reception Venue Nanga Bush Camp // Catering Caviar Catering and Events // Bar truck The Travelling Jaspers // Cake Glory Box Wedding Cakes // Outdoor Games by The Turtle and the Pelican // Celebrant Fiona Anderson // Rings Mark Miles Design and Michael Hill // Wedding Dance Perth Swing Dance Academy // Bridal gown Lace overlay Soiree via Etsy and Slip Meeting Grace // Robes and Bridesmaid Gifts Comfy Clothing via Etsy // Hair and Makeup Josephines Salon de Beaute // Groom and Groomsmen suits YD // Cufflinks Myer // Shoes and Groomsmen gifts Converse // Flower girls Doll Cake