Bride & Groom: Georgia & Tom Bruerton
Planning & Styling: Planning by yours truly - Georgia (with the help of Mona Farm), Styling by Poppy from Honey Lane Events
Gown: Monique Lhuillier Fernanda followed by a Suzanne Neville for the reception
Venue: Mona Farm
Photography: Bayleigh Vedelago
Videography: Moon & Back Co.
Floral: Clementine Posy
Accessories: Jimmy Choo Sacora Heels, Diamond Emporium wedding band and engagement ring
Bridesmaids dress: Shona Joy- La Lune lace back
Hair & Make-up: Jasmin Cervello, Zoe Martin Makeup
Spray Tan: Bliss by Bree
How did you and your husband meet?
After several years of single life, I had almost given up on the hope of finding anyone even half decent in Sydney. Then came along a little app called Tinder (you can call me Tinderella). Tom had just relocated down from the Central Coast to Chatswood, so unfortunately, his single bachelor life was very short lived.
Our first official date took place a few weeks later at a venue called the Royal George. It was super casual, but SO very unexpected - full of lots of laughs (and drinks). The rest is history!
How did he propose?
We got engaged back in November 2020.
It was definitely time as I was suspicious for at least 6 months, wondering exactly when the moment would come. We had arranged a little weekend getaway to Kangaroo Valley, needing some time to just ourselves post lockdown.
The weekend got off to a lovely start, we had checked-in to our air b n and headed off to the shops to buy some essential supplies. We then decided to drive around the area, exploring some of the sights that Kangaroo Valley has to offer. Tom had mentioned that we needed to be at dinner at 6.45pm to see the sunset - and was very firm on this.
Before dinner, we thought it would be a great idea to check-out one of the local vineyards. Little did we know that this was all the way up one of the hills, and the road was untarred. We entered this big field of grass, following the google maps directions. After about a minute, we realised that we were driving the wrong way, so decided to turn back. It had been raining the day before, so the grass was extremely muddy. As I reversed the car around, we got bogged! My foot was hard on the accelerator, but the car wasn’t budging. Tom was freaking out - evidently very stressed that we weren’t going to make it out in time to see the sunset. Adding to the stress, we also had no phone reception. We ended up having to get out of the car and start pushing. The car finally got released - what a relief that was!
Once we were both ready for dinner, we drove a few minutes to the ‘restaurant’. We arrived to an empty car park, and followed the signs to the entrance. We were greeted by a lovely woman who asked us to check in via the QR code (very convincing). I was then told to follow the path down to the restaurant.
As I begun walking down the steps, Ed Sheeran music began playing, and I noticed that the path was lit up on either side with candles. I saw a platform not too far ahead that overlooked the ridge of Kangaroo Valley, decorated either side with more candles and decorations. The rest is pretty much a blur. Tom got down on one knee, and presented me with the most beautiful ring I had ever seen. It was in a diamond emporium box, so immediately I realised that my MOH Lauren was in on it too. After we shared a very intimate moment, we enjoyed a bottle of my favourite champagne before heading off to dinner to celebrate, sharing the news with our nearest and dearest!
What was your vision for your wedding day?
We had lots of planning hiccups along the way with our original venue so when I eventually landed on Mona Farm, I was immediately blown away by how beautiful and picturesque the property was. One of my non-negotiables was that I wanted all of our guests to have a magical (and carefree) experience - away from the hustle and bustle of Sydney.
I’ve always felt at peace in the countryside, surrounded by nature. Getting married at Mona Farm made the vision extremely seamless.
To summarize the vision in a few words, I’d say - elegant, classic, whimsical, vibrant and sophisticated.
What was the highlight of your wedding day for you?
Walking down the aisle feeling extremely calm (arm in arm with Dad), but equally grateful to be surrounded by all of our loved ones.
What drew you to your gown from Helen Rodrigues Bridal?
Once the venue was locked in, I knew that I wanted to wear a gown that would compliment the boldness of the venue. Given all the perfect photo opportunity locations that the venue lends itself to, I was comfortable wearing a material that had some character, and a structure that provided shape and excitement.
What was the biggest decision you had to make?
There wasn’t one big decision, but rather a number of important smaller decisions. We knew that when all of these elements were executed together, it would turn the atmosphere of the day from potentially just being mediocre, to being WOW (eg. the song selections, the welcome to the wedding itineraries, the food and beverage selection, the translated menus for international guests etc).
Where did you look for your wedding gown inspiration?
My go-to sources for wedding gown inspiration were Pinterest and Instagram, being very intentional to only follow pages that matched my timeless (but romantic) aesthetic.
Is there anything you would do differently?
Not a single thing! We were blessed with the best - can’t speak more highly of all of our vendors.
Is there any advice you would give other #HRBride’s?
Feeling wow’d the second you put on your wedding dress should be something that is never compromised on. Speaking first hand, the feeling does exist, and if you haven’t felt it yet - keep looking for your dream gown!
What attracted you to Helen Rodrigues Bridal?
Seeing all of the real-life brides. I felt as though I knew them as our aesthetics were aligned. I had no doubt I’d find my dream dress through Helen.
I can’t recommend Helen and her team enough! I had been searching for my dream dress in Sydney for a few months but none of the stores provided a memorable experience. The second that mum and I met Helen, we felt at home. Her pieces are absolutely breathtaking and I can attest to the fact that she prides herself on providing a luxurious bridal experience. All of my fittings went smoothly and Helen was always happy to go above and beyond.