Photography: Cloud Catcher Studio
These two! The absolute joy radiating through the wedding of Ashlea and Stephen has made it a QB fave — and we love a groom who rocks colour on his wedding day!
Although their story started in a Queenstown pub (via a high school crush), the Brisbane-based couple looked to the mountaintops of Toowoomba for their dream Queensland wedding venue, Preston Peak. With Ashlea turning heads in Ella Moda, Stephen’s dapper crew kitted out by Black Jacket Suiting, and puppy Cooper dressed to impress, the stage was set for a stylish soirée. Romance was the order of the day — but the bride also crafted an unexpected first-dance moment we adore. Can’t stop smiling over this one.
QB: All good love stories start somewhere; tell us how and when you met.
Stephen and I met in New Zealand. We went to the same high school (three years apart) and I actually had a crush on him back then. So, fast forward three years out of high school and I met him in a pub in Queenstown. The rest is history.
QB: Make us laugh, make us cry: who proposed to who, and how?
Stephen proposed in 2019 on the top of a mountain in Yosemite. After a long hike, I was tired and wanted to get that shuttle bus back down the mountain— but Stephen had planned on popping the question, so luckily convinced me otherwise. We had three weeks after this to celebrate our engagement while travelling across the US and Canada.
QB: How did you celebrate your hens & bucks?
I had a big party: carnival themed with a tarot card reader and all. And in classic Stephen style, he had a few nights at the beach with the boys, drinking beers.
QB: Why did you choose your venue?
We pretty much chose Preston Peak as soon as we saw it: we fell in love. A beautiful venue and the staff were amazing and personable.
QB: Tell us about your dress & suit choices …
I tried on about 100 dresses. One day I randomly decided to pop into Ella Moda and found the dress. I knew straight away. My husband had his beautiful jacket and pants made by Black Jacket Suiting, a recommendation from a friend.
QB: What was the inspiration behind your wedding style?
Romance. From the dress to the hair and the styling, we wanted it to be a romantic Old Hollywood style.
QB: Did you incorporate any traditions or perhaps do something a little different?
I did a mother/daughter dance. And yes, it was choreographed to the Gilmore Girls theme song.
QB: What were the most memorable moments of the day?
My parents’ speech, and also our entrance. My husband also surprised me with a video from my sister as she’s overseas and couldn’t make it.
QB: Any special mentions for your vendors?
My hair stylist Minx Contemporary in Toowoomba. They were beautiful and so professional. They made it so stress free. Also, our celebrant Sue, she is the absolute best.
QB: How did you honeymoon?
We went to Tassie for three weeks. Was amazing and cold.
QB: Any words of wisdom to offer other couples?
Make some time before the reception to have a drink or a chat with your new wife/husband. This was so lovely.
QB: What does marriage mean to you?
It means always being there and having your partner’s back, through all the good and the not-so-good. Knowing you always have someone in your corner.
DREAM TEAM
Photography: Cloud Catcher Studio // Ceremony + Reception: Preston Peak Functions + Winery // Celebrant: Celebrant Sue // Gown: Ella Moda // Accessories: by Charlotte // Shoes: Wittner // Groom’s outfit: Black Jacket Suiting // Groomsmen outfits: Black Jacket Suiting // Hair & Make Up: Minx Contemporary Hair Boutique // Wedding Rings: The Diamond Centre // Styling & Flowers: Daisy and Co // Cake: Storybook Cakes // Catering: Preston Peak // Music: Chris Hutchinson