Let Love Rule.
I think Lenny Kravitz was on to something when he penned this classic in 1988 (it’s still a fave on my playlist!). And, following last year’s momentous decision in favour of gay marriage, thankfully Australia can now support all couples to let their love rule. Heck, yes! Excitingly, our first issue since the plebiscite also includes our first-ever same-sex real wedding. And, in an extra-special twist, it just happens to be the wedding of my dear friend Barbara and her sweetheart Ana, who married in a complete #weddinggoals kind of celebration in Byron Bay (see p.129). It was truly an honour to attend and be part of such a beautiful day.
In fact, we feel extremely privileged to share in so many wonderful local love stories. Our inboxes are always full of wedding submissions and the hardest part, of course, is choosing the few that will grace our print pages. Which brings me to the seriously magical weddings in this issue – from Hope and Jeremy’s country Queensland nuptials and the hinterland wedding of Chelsea and George, to Sam and Dylan’s city celebration and the destination wedding of Cindy-Anne and Scott on Great Keppel Island. See how our smitten couples embrace their big day and make it their own – and discover all the details, from proposals and planning to what went down on the dance floor – from p.71. And if one day just isn’t enough, Cara and Jamie’s dreamy vow renewal in the Maldives (p.194) will have you thinking ahead for your own 10th-anniversary adventure. So romantic.
Also in this issue: a collection of gorgeous bridal gowns encapsulating the season’s trends; a fabulous engagement shoot starring wedding industry insider Michael and his partner Philip; and two glorious Gold Coast-based styled shoots (one featuring this month’s cover model Ashton, see p.112). We also help you dodge the drama and navigate bride tribe etiquette, including some pretty sweet suggestions for popping the question to your best girls. Finally, in my first issue as editor, I’d like to personally invite each of you to meet and greet with me at our next wedding expo, from 12-14 October at the Brisbane Convention Centre. I also welcome your ideas, suggestions or comments about how we can further help you on your wedding journey – feel free to drop me a line at editor@queenslandbrides.com.au.
x Nikki, Editor
Photography: Sophie Baker // Styling: JJ Style // Venue: Summergrove Estate //Gown: Karen Willis Holmes //Flowers: Tweed Banora Flowers // Makeup: Bexi Makeup Artist // Hair: Amy Spry Hair & Makeup // Model: Ashton Wood
