Emily & Josh
How did you both meet?
Tinder – the 21st century way!
Tell us about the proposal…
We were staying at this beautiful house on the water (house-sitting for my parent’s friend) and Josh had a special key chain made saying ‘Will you marry me?’ Which he attached to the little dog we were looking after. I saw the little heart, bent down and when I read it I spun around and he was there with my beautiful pink sapphire ring – It was perfect for us!
What did you do for your honeymoon?
We went to Melbourne for four nights after our beautiful week in Airlie Beach where we had our incredible wedding. We ate a lot and soaked up the amazing culture and history.
What did you do for your hens and bucks nights’?
We had two, one in Auckland and Mackay for each of us, so all family and friends could celebrate with us. My Auckland one was arranged by my outstanding Maid of Honour, which involved a bottomless brunch, lots of games and a topless waiter for dinner.
What was your wedding budget?
$18,000
Where did you splurge & where did you save?
We splurged on photography and some special decor items like lighting. But, saved on my dress as my incredibly talented mum made it.
Why did you choose Earlando to host your wedding?
We live in Auckland but I wanted Joshua’s family to be able to come to the wedding as they miss out on so much else. Airlie Beach was close enough to Mackay and so beautiful, therefore perfect!
What was your key styling inspiration?
I wanted to highlight the gorgeous natural surroundings of Earlando with a touch of glamour and sophistication.
Any DIY Details?
My dress was made by my mum and really stole the show! We also made our favours. Other than that it’s hard to do much when you have to transport everything overseas…
Funniest Moment:
The speeches – We had great speakers (three teachers and entertaining parents!)
Special Memory:
The photos, when we went off with Richie (photographer) by ourselves and had such a great time with just us two wandering the venue at dusk.
Special Thanks:
Primarily my mum for her skills and time in making my dream dress. Our parents in general for their support in making our wedding dreams come true. Furthermore, our amazing wedding planners Roxanne and Jess who were beyond helpful!
Advice for other couples currently planning their wedding:
Do the photos by themselves without the bridal party. We had two hours, just the two of us, which meant we were really able to take stock of our magical day and enjoy it, rather than trying to sneak moments together.
WEDDING TEAM
HAIR: Intuition Hair // MAKEUP: Lush Beauty Mackay // FLORIST: Le Sorelle // PHOTOGRAPHER: Richard Grainger Photography // TRANSPORT: Shuttle Limo // CELEBRANT: Annie Lloyd-Lewis // DECORATOR: Azure Weddings and Events Whitsundays // MARQUEE: Whitsunday Party Hire // ENTERTAINMENT: Total Entertainment – Dylan // CATERING: Aquava Boutique Catering // CAKE: Whitsunday Baked Creations // ACCOMMODATION: Boathouse Apartments // REHEARSAL DINNER: Sorrento’s // POST-WEDDING BRUNCH: La Marina