Real Bride: Maddie
Bride: Maddie | Groom: James
- How did you meet your husband?
We met each other 8 years ago at a pub in Melbourne. We had mutual friends and they were meeting up to have a night out. James bought Maddie a drink at the bar and a sneaky dance floor kiss sealed the deal.
- How did your partner propose to you?
It was a beautiful sunny Saturday in September 2019. We went for a walk around Lake Boga which is near our home. James began recalling some of the great memories we had created together over our years together and said he would like to spend the rest of his life making more memories, he dropped down to one knee and proposed. It was perfect.
- What was your favourite part of your wedding day?
James and I did a first look with each other before the ceremony. This was one of the most special, emotional and heartfelt moments of the day for us. We both felt completely at ease after that and it meant that all the nerves were gone and we could take in each moment together.
Our ceremony was also the most perfect reflection of us as a couple. Our celebrant Cait McMahon created a beautiful space for us to celebrate our love story.
- Did you have a theme or concept for your wedding day? What was your inspiration?
We both knew we wanted a relaxed cocktail style wedding so we set out to create a beautiful day around this. Maddie grew up in Maffra and James in a small town outside of Swan Hill, so as two country people, we knew the location and venue had to reflect this. We had the most perfect venue in Maffra, called “The Vines on Avon” a picturesque winery with views of rolling hills and vineyards. The weather was absolutely stunning and everything went to plan thanks to our amazing vendors.
- How did you find the experience of shopping for a wedding gown?
The process was everything I dreamed of. I went shopping with my mum and my dress was the fourth one I tried on. I knew as soon as I put it on that it was for me. I know people say that the dress picks the bride and I couldn't agree more with that sentiment.
- What did you love about your wedding gown?
I loved that my dress was different to others I had seen before. The split detail was not something I had even imagined when thinking about my dream dress. I went into the boutique with an open mind and willing to try a range of styles and I truly believe that this is how I found my perfect dress. I was so comfortable all day and night in my dress and I really did not want to take it off.
- Any words of wisdom for future brides?
I hope all brides know that the day is about the love story with their partner. The day is about celebrating who you are as a couple, so do what makes you happy and will bring you joy looking back on in years to come. Take in all the moments and know that the love bubble you are in is one of the most special and precious times you will have together. Enjoy it.
