Tessa-Jay and Brett’s journey to the aisle took a little longer than anticipated. But the delay was meant to be, with the couple welcoming a beautiful baby boy into the world during the wedding planning hiatus. No strangers to coordinating large events, thanks to their jobs in PR and Creative Direction, Tesas and Brett were in their element designing the “classic yet relaxed” day.
The Melbournians landed on a destination wedding, and where better to host than their fave annual holiday spot, Brisbane’s Calile Hotel? Beck Rocchi was on camera duties and we gotta agree with the newlyweds that the “photos are 10/10”. “Beck made everyone feel so comfortable. We will cherish [the photos] forever.” Scroll on to see it all for yourself!
THE PROPOSAL “Brett proposed on a weekend away at Lancemore Lindenderry with a picnic on the winery grounds. He was very organised and planned the picnic, which was unlike him as I always plan everything; however, it was the best surprise and such a fun day and weekend to follow celebrating.”
THE VENUE “We were going to have it at a private home in Portsea, Victoria. However, we felt like we wanted to make the most of the wedding, make it a fun destination for everyone to enjoy, and make a weekend or a week out of it. Maximising the fun and memories. We have been going to The Calile Hotel since it opened every year, and when they had the dates available over a long weekend, we locked it in! It also added excitement to see how people were excited to visit if they hadn’t been before, and they made a holiday out of it, too. It’s a gorgeous place, so the vibe is already set for you.”
DIY “All of the silk bows on the tables were made by my lovely mother-in-law. They looked perfect. There was a bow on each table setting for every guest!”
THE SUIT “Brett opted for black linen custom suits and shirts from P.Johnson and dressed it down with his favourite Adidas Gazelles, which he and the groomsmen wore. They looked so smart and handsome in all black. I wanted to tie it in with the gorgeous bridesmaids who wore black linen Sir The Label dresses. So classy.”
THE DRESS “My dress was the hardest decision. I think I purchased five different dresses and opted for the first one I actually purchased, followed by a short dress for the reception. I always knew I wanted to buy something different and from online and made sure I was comfortable, but the designs were timeless.”
MEMORABLE MOMENT “Saying our vows, [which was] also the most nerve-wracking and most important. Also, just after the wedding and mingling with everyone. It was such a happy time! We shot all of our photos with the bridal party ahead of the ceremony, so it was all done, and we could enjoy [the time] with our guests, which was the best decision. Walking down the aisle with my dad and having Brett and Theodore, our two-year-old son, in his arms for the whole ceremony made it so special and memorable. We had family members take part in the ceremony, and our celebrant extraordinaire, Jackson, is one of our oldest friends. He made sure it was perfect. We are so glad we had the personal touches.”
WE’RE GLAD WE… “[Had] a destination wedding. It made it logistically harder (for everyone) but also that much more special, and we couldn’t thank everyone enough for making the trip and adding to the memories.”
Dreaming of your own destination I do’s? We’ve rounded up some hot spots we know you’ll love here, as well as some more real away-from-home weddings here. Or if The Calile Hotel has caught your eye, why not reach out to their wonderful team? Say ‘hey’ on the Hello May Directory here.
CONTRIBUTING VENDORS Photographer Beck Rocchi Photography Florist Bloodwood Botanica Stationery & Signage Signed by Shaun Ceremony & Reception Venue The Calile Hotel Cake Marina Machado Cakes Entertainment First Beige Band (Post-Ceremony) & DJ Quinn Masters (Reception) Celebrant Jackson Young (Friend) Honeymoon Netanya at Noosa THE BRIDE Bridal Gown Bernadette via The Fall Bride Veil Grace Loves Lace Reception Dress Brandon Maxwell via Net-a-Porter Getting Ready PJs Gingerlilly Bride Shoes Tony Bianco Accessories Bianko Makeup Satya Schmitz Hair Edwards and Co Fortitude Valley Bridesmaid Dresses Sir. The Label Bridesmaid Shoes Wittner THE GROOM Suit, shirt & Groomsmen Suits P.Johnson Shoes Adidas via Hype DC
