We'd love to start with your story. How did you and your partner first cross paths?

Michael and I had crossed paths many times before we properly met, always by coincidence, which we now joke was the “invisible string” pulling us together. Our first real interaction came when he was working at a pizzeria and I went in to pick up an order. He jumped up to serve me immediately, and less than an hour later he messaged me on social media asking if his pizzas were okay. The rest is history!

Can you share a little about your proposal story?

Michael proposed to me at Manly Castle, and it was nothing short of magical. He arranged a surprise engagement party straight after the proposal, with our closest family and friends waiting to celebrate. We danced and drank the night away. It remains one of my favourite nights ever lived… after the wedding, of course.

What advice would you give to brides starting their planning journey?

Trust your gut and own your vision from the start, unapolagetically. Stay aligned with your partner and focus on how your guests will feel. We wanted to create a day that our guests not only visually loved we created an atmosphere and focused on how our guests would feel. Don’t be afraid to challenge the norm - this is a once-in-a-lifetime moment. Select a team of vendors who truly understand your style. Surround yourself with a dream team people who not only get it, but get your vision. One of the most inspiring collaborators for us was our photographer, Callan Robison. His aesthetic, his energy, and his eye were all such strong creative anchors throughout our planning.

Who was with you while you were getting ready and what was the energy in the room?

I had my mum and dad, my girls, and an incredible hair, makeup, photography, and videography team with me. Everyone was so calm, which helped me stay calm too. Music was playing, we were laughing, and everyone was fully present, it was the perfect morning.

Did you have a "getting ready" soundtrack or song that instantly brings you back to that moment?

I had imagined getting ready to Shania Twain’s “Man! I Feel Like a Woman,” but on the day, I just rolled with whatever played. A random R&B playlist was in the background, and it ended up being perfect in its own way.

What were you sipping or snacking on that morning?

Both! I had a little liquid courage and some snacks, never hurts on such a big day.

What was the standout moment of your entire wedding day - big or small?

The sheer amount of love and happiness in the room stood out the most. Being surrounded by family and friends, all celebrating us, was unforgettable and truly heartwarming.

What's one thing you wish someone had told you before you started planning?

I wish someone had reminded me to slow down and enjoy the planning as much as the day itself. It’s easy to get caught up in decisions, spreadsheets, and deadlines, but the small moments of joy along the way are what you remember most.

What advice would you give brides looking for their dresses of the day?

Stay true to yourself. A bride’s dress tells a story, and for that entire day, the story is all about you. It’s easy to get lost in planning or forget why you’re getting married, but staying true to who you are is so important.

One thing you're glad you didn't compromise on and one thing you could have skipped?

I’m so glad we didn’t compromise on our planner and stylist. Viviene from FÖLA Styling made the entire wedding feel effortless and brought our vision to life. Their guidance, expertise, and creativity were invaluable, and it shows in every photo and video. On the other hand, I almost added more personalised touches, like custom paper and cups for late-night fries. I’m glad I didn’t, no one really notices, and the bigger moments are what truly matter.

Any last words of wisdom for brides planning a day that feels authentically them?

Stay true to yourself. It’s easy to get caught up in trends or other people’s opinions, but your day will feel most special when it reflects you and your partner. It’s not selfish to put yourselves first, the wedding is about you. Focus on the moments, the people, and the details that matter most, and everything else will fall into place. It all goes by so quickly.