All good love stories start somewhere; tell us how you met …
Dale and I went to high school together, but our love didn’t blossom until about two years later.
Give us a glimpse into your lives together.
We’ve been together eight incredible years! We both grew up and lived in Brisbane our whole lives; Dale working hard on his Diesel Mechanic apprenticeship and trade, and me studying to be a Paramedic and Registered Nurse. After three years together, I landed my dream job as a Paramedic in Townsville. Without hesitation, Dale packed up his life and moved 1,600km away from family and friends. What was meant to be six months turned into five years, and now Townsville feels like home. We purchased and are renovating a beachside home with our two Rottweilers, Chuck and Betty, who are the light of our lives.
Make us laugh, make us cry: who proposed to whom, and how?
Dale proposed in Paris in July 2023. We were on our European Summer trip, and I had no idea he was hiding my dream ring in his suitcase. Paris was our first stop, and Dale wanted to scout the perfect location. For four days, he carried the ring in his pocket, waiting for the right moment. On our last night, after dinner and cocktails, we went to see the Eiffel Tower one last time. While having our photo taken, I turned away, and when I turned back, Dale was on one knee with the most beautiful ring in his hand!
How did you celebrate your hens/bucks?
I had the ultimate girls’ weekend on the Gold Coast! Friday, we sailed the Broadwater with Sailing in Paradise, then enjoyed pizza, Prosecco, and a pyjama night. Saturday was a bottomless brunch at Hyde Paradiso, followed by a limousine tour and a Magic Men show. I wore the gorgeous Eliya the Label Harriet Dress—it was a dream!
Dale’s bucks weekend was in Cairns and full of adventure. Highlights included wearing a thrifted wedding dress, go-karting, bungee jumping, and a few trips to Gilligan’s. When asked what his favourite moment was, he laughed about getting stuck in the hotel lift for an hour with 16 mates and an esky full of beers … what could go wrong!
What was the inspiration behind your wedding style?
We wanted a classic, timeless, and elegant wedding. Our styling was black and white, and we asked guests to wear bright colours. It made our guests stand out while maintaining the simplicity of black and white in a stunning way.
Tell us about your dress/suit choices …
I wore Made with Love Bridal’s Rae gown, featuring a sweetheart neckline, pleated bodice, full skirt, and a cheeky thigh-high split, which made it the perfect blend of sexy and elegant. Dale and his groomsmen wore classic black suits, complete with RM Williams belts and boots, and personalised cufflinks.
Venue & wedding weekend
The Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort on the Gold Coast was the first and only venue we toured – and it was perfect. With accommodation, beachfront, beautiful grounds, and wet weather options, it had everything we wanted. Our wedding weekend was like a holiday with family and friends; 90 of our 120 guests stayed at the resort. Friday kicked off with check-in drinks and a welcome dinner, setting the tone for the weekend.
Our wedding day was perfect: a balmy summer ceremony on the lawns, sunset photos on the beach, night photos on the boardwalk, a three-course meal, flowing drinks, hours of dancing, and a midnight finish with guests stumbling back to their rooms. Sunday recovery started at the Sheraton buffet breakfast and swim-up bar. Guests kept telling us how different and incredible it was compared to a usual hinterland wedding, and we loved making a weekend of it with everyone.
Did you incorporate any traditions or perhaps do something a little different?
We kept it traditional, including sleeping in separate locations the night before. Something different? We hid our wedding rings under a guest’s chair at the ceremony. Our celebrant, Mitch, placed them before anyone arrived, and it was so fun waiting to see who our ring bearers would be!
Was there a funny/most memorable moment of the day?
It’s hard to pick! My favourite moment was reading our vows. Being so vulnerable and in love in front of our nearest and dearest was just beautiful.
What was your ‘first dance’ song?
You’re Still the One, sung acoustically by Kyle Bryant.
Do you have a special mention for any stand-out vendors/suppliers?
All of our vendors were amazing, but the day wouldn’t have been the same without:
- Mitch, The Surfing Celebrant
- Kyle Bryant Music
- FigTree Pictures
Do you have any words of wisdom to offer other couples?
Enjoy every moment as it goes by so fast! When the small things feel stressful, remember it’s about you and the person you’re marrying. Take a moment to soak it all in as you won’t ever have the same group of people in the same room again.
How did you honeymoon?
We’re planning a belated European Summer honeymoon to celebrate the first six months of married life.
Dream team:
Photographer: FigTree Pictures // Venue: Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Gold Coast // Celebrant: The Surfing Celebrant // Styling: Style on Q // Dress: Made with Love Bridal // Shoes: Steve Madden // Jewellery: Gucci // Rings: Jewellery by Design // Bridesmaid Dresses: Odd Muse London // Suit: Brunos Suits // Makeup: Megan Williamson MUA // Hair: Scilo Hair // Music: Kyle Bryant Music // Gelato: Wheel and Spoon // Cake: Hello Little Crumb // Cookies: Cookies Kitchen Co // Signage: Signed with Love
