Innholdsfortegnelse for Winter 2016 i Cosmopolitan Bride Australia

Something pretty exciting happened at Cosmopolitan recently. The team came up with the genius idea of using the Cosmo pages to help someone propose! Enter stage left: Steve, who wanted to pop the question to his girlfriend, Christina, in a fun and creative way – you might have seen the result in the February issue of Cosmo. The day the magazine hit newsstands, to say we were fizzing with excitement would be an understatement! Would she sit down and read it straightaway, or save it for later?! You can find out exactly how long it took her to spot the sweet proposal on page 218, where we caught up with the happy couple after it all went down. (Christina said “YES!” of course!) As well as all that excitement, we’ve…

When did your love of bridal fashion begin? From a very young age I always loved making things and sewing, which led to studying fashion design. I kind of fell into working as a stylist assistant and then continued to work as a stylist for publications and on advertising jobs over the next 10 years. And why did you decide to make it your career? I can’t see myself working in a non-creative field. It’s just too much fun! Tell us what you love most about what you do… I love the people I meet. The brides and their families – it’s such a privilege to be a part of this incredibly special time for them. Plus, I get to play dress-ups every day, which is pretty much the dream,…

DATE April 18, 2015 VENUE Private property & Noosa Waterfront Restaurant & Bar, Qld This lucky bride’s wedding dress was designed and made by her own talented mother, who even rustled up an elegant personalised silk robe to get ready in, too! Amber and Michael tied the knot on a magnificent private property, complete with a magical old fig tree and lush garden views. After soaking up the beautiful landscape at the ceremony, the newlyweds headed on to the reception, where they mingled with their guests on a gorgeous outdoor lawn next to the water and sat down to a delicious four-course dinner. Their family and friends even performed a flash dance together for them. Awesome! DATE April 18, 2015. PHOTOGRAPHER Beccy Smith (bxc smxth.com), and Karen Buckle (karen buckle.com).…

DATE August 29, 2015 VENUE The Boomerang Farm, Qld This magical day started off on a serene note, with one of Amanda’s bridesmaids leading the guests in a calming mindfulness meditation before the ceremony. Amanda and Mark then shared their personal vows in a stunning rainforest locale. After loved ones enjoyed a garden-party high tea and lawn games, the newlyweds danced their way into the reception, showing off their skills with a jive routine for the first dance. Guests tucked into a buffet-style feast that had everyone raving, then hit the dance floor. The couple finished off the night with a favourite song, Home, and a dazzling sparkler send-off! DATE August 29, 2015. PHOTOGRAPHER Tom Hall Photography (tomhallphotography.com.au). “Tom is my brother and it was very special to have him…

DATE October 30, 2015 VENUE Mansion Hotel & Spa at Werribee Park, Vic Hattie and her bridesmaids spent the morning dancing and getting ready to some classic R‘n’B tunes, and soon it was time to tie the knot. When the bride met her groom at the aisle, her nerves vanished and she couldn’t keep the smile off her face! The day incorporated an English and Aussie garden theme to express both the bride and groom’s heritages and personalities. All the celebrations continued at the flower-filled reception, where Hattie and Wade danced the night away with their loved ones. There was even a photo booth and a taco truck serving late-night snacks – yum! DATE October 30, 2015. PHOTOGRAPHER John Warren from Warren Photography (warren photography.com.au). “He’s an amazing photographer –…

DATE October 4, 2015 VENUE Waverley Estate, SA This fun celebration started with the bride hanging by the pool and listening to ’80s tunes – perfection! After the ceremony, it was off to a ‘pool party’, where the cocktails and canapés were flowing. Later, guests enjoyed a feast inspired by local cuisine and a ‘Little Miss Mexico’ bar, a recreation of the spot where the couple had first met. How cute! Soon, the party really got started, and Nabula and Anthony danced the night away with all their loved ones. There were even shots of ouzo or rakia (as an ode to their Greek and Croatian heritages) instead of a champagne toast. Cheers to that! DATE October 4, 2015. PHOTOGRAPHER Beck Rocchi Photography (beckrocchi.com.au). “I loved her relaxed vibe.” DRESS…

DATE October 10, 2015 VENUE The Baths Middle Brighton, Vic This bride’s morning started with her bridesmaids – one of whom had flown all the way from London the day before – and brekkie! After, Mariko had a lovely, relaxed morning getting ready, and in no time at all the main event had arrived. The ceremony took place at twilight, just as Mariko had planned, and the waterfront venue was the perfect place to say “I do”. Then, at the reception, guests were treated to a stunning sunset over the ocean… as well as a dramatic thunderstorm! The rest of the day was a ton of fun, with hilarious speeches, delicious food and a photo booth for everyone to get wild in. DATE October 10, 2015. PHOTOGRAPHER Shaney at Foto…

DATES November 27–28 VENUE Sri Vakrathunda Vinayagar Temple & Encore St Kilda, Vic When your groom arrives on a horse, you know it’s going to be a truly amazing day. That was how Vinay made his entrance at this couple’s big day, to a backdrop of guests dancing to the beat of drums. The traditional Hindu ceremony that followed was full of colour and meaningful moments. But it didn’t end there. Lakshmi and Vinay celebrated again the next day with a sophisticated civil ceremony and reception that was another chance to profess their love in front of family and friends (even their puppies attended as surprise, and very cute, ring bearers!) – and, of course, celebrate. HINDU WEDDING DATE Nov 27, 2015. PHOTOGRAPHER Sorrento Wedding Photography (sorrentoweddings.com.au). “Shannon and Chris…

ESTÉE LAUDER CLEAR DIFFERENCE PURIFYING EXFOLIATING MASK, $58 In just five minutes, this deep cleansing dynamo will draw out impurities, revitalise skin and help to prevent future breakouts thanks to the hero ingredient, salicylic acid. ÉMINENCE ORGANIC SKIN CARE FIRM SKIN ACAI MASQUE, $92 Turn back the clock with this firming mask, featuring an antioxidant-rich blend of acai, blueberry, raspberry and bramble berry. NU’TRIR DETOXIFYING ENZYMATIC RADIANCE MASQUE, $39.95 Papaya, m›nuka honey and cranberry work on pigmentation and dull skin, setting you on the path to complexion perfection. JUNE JACOBS MANDARIN MOISTURE MASQUE FROM SEPHORA, $69 This moisturising mask is a great all-rounder thanks to invigorating mandarin, free radical-fighting pomegranate and hydrating hyaluronic acid. CHARLOTTE TILBURY MULTI-MIRACLE GLOW, $80 Use this vitamin A and rosehip oil-packed multi-tasker as a cleansing…

You’re having a COUNTRY WEDDING You’re having a BEACH WEDDING You’re having a GARDEN WEDDING You 're having a CITY WEDDING…

PHOTOGRAPHY BRIEF Items to discuss with your photographer Colour photographs Black-and-white photographs Sepia tones Combo of colour and black-and-white Cross-processing or special effects Online options for loved ones overseas Shots to include PORTRAITS Bride and bridesmaids getting ready Groom and groomsmen getting ready Bride portrait Groom portrait Bride with bridal party Groom with bridal party Bride with parents Groom with parents Bride with family Groom with family Full-length portrait of bride (front and back) Bride getting in and out of car Bride and groom portrait Bride and groom with bridal party Bride and groom with bride’s parents Bride and groom with groom’s parents Bride and groom with both sets of parents Bride and groom with both families Shots to include CEREMONY Church/venue exterior Church/venue interior Parents Groom and groomsmen waiting…

THE PLACE SETTING Instead of guests looking for their name at each seat, get them to look for their picture. Pick a snap that shows how they know the newlyweds (like a school photo, cute!) – it’s a clever way to remind everyone of their connection. Place the photo in a Perspex frame – it will look great and double as a keepsake for loved ones, too. THE SWEET TREAT Kissing cupcakes are the best late-night snack after hours on the dance floor. Print that perfect kiss shot, cut out your heads, pop them on a toothpick and indulge! THE PHOTO TIMELINE Show off some of the special times you and your partner have shared and let your guests see all the amazing things you’ve done together. Grab a selection…

When did your love of parties begin? Since I can remember! Even as a three-year-old, my favourite thing was to go to the local party shop and pre-plan my parties, carefully selecting a theme and then mixing and matching items to suit. What was the first party you styled? Probably my fourth birthday party, styled with all the little details! I’d start with a colour scheme and work from there – this hasn’t changed. One of the most memorable was my 16th birthday. I look back on it now and cringe, but at the time I thought it was very on point! When did you decide to make a career out of it? I was totally captivated by wedding magazines and blogs when planning my own. I soon realised it…

DATE July 3, 2015 VENUE Dana Villas & Theros Wave Bar, Santorini, Greece A year earlier, when the bride and groom visited Santorini, they knew it was the perfect spot to say “I do”. When the big day finally arrived, bride Sam shared a special moment with her mum and maid of honour as they helped her into her wedding dress, and before she knew it, it was time get married. As the sun was about to set, the couple said their vows against a stunning backdrop of the ocean before moving on to the reception. There, a confetti arrival greeted the newlyweds, and a meal of local cuisine followed. A highlight? Dancing to Thinking Out Loud by Ed Sheeran, surrounded by sparklers and their loved ones. Cute. DATE July…

DATE April 11, 2015 VENUE St Augustine’s Church &›Quay, NSW Tara began the morning of her wedding getting ready at her family home, just as her mum had done for her own wedding 40 years before! Once she’d put on her dress, the excitement kicked in and she was ready to walk down the aisle. After tying the knot, it was then on to the reception. Filled with candles, hanging blooms and a flower wall, the venue was breathtaking. Groom Mitchell gave a touching, emotional speech (the only one of the night) and there wasn’t a dry eye in the room. Then, after the formalities, the bride slipped into a second dress and got the party started in the stunning harbourside location. DATE April 11, 2015. PHOTOGRAPHER Tim Pascoe (timpascoe…

DATE March 28, 2015 VENUE Redbrow Garden, NSW Lauren woke up to clear, sunny skies on her big day and enjoyed a breakfast with her bridal party and future mother- and sister-in-law while the boys added last-minute touches to the venue. After an emotional walk down the aisle with her dad and a touching ceremony, it was time for the reception, which included cute picnic blankets and baskets filled with delicious cheeses and fruits, allowing guests to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. There were even boats to row on the tranquil lake and a bonfire once darkness fell, before the happy couple made their exit through a wall of cuddles and congratulations. Pure magic! DATE March 28, 2015. PHOTOGRAPHER Margan (margan photography.com). “We struck gold with Erin and Erica. They were…

DATE January 29, 2016 VENUE Thistle Hill, NSW The forecast for their wedding may have been thunderstorms, but in the end this happy couple had nothing but sunshine on their special day! And, turning tradition on its head, rather than the grooms walking up the aisle, they were waiting at the top of it as their guests arrived instead. There may have been clear skies, but dry eyes? Not so much! The heartfelt ceremony left many of the guests (the grooms’ dads, especially) emotional and wiping away happy tears. Then it was on to photos, followed by cocktails and canapés under the stars with their nearest and dearest. What a day! DATE January 29, 2016. PHOTOGRAPHER Frank at Same Love Photography (samelove.com.au). “Frank is both an amazing photographer and a…

DATE November 7, 2015 VENUE Adelaide Botanic Garden & The Conservatory, Ayers House, SA Bride Victoria spent the morning of her special day getting ready with her bridesmaids, before making her way to the gorgeous garden setting, where a wave of emotion hit her as she first laid eyes on her groom. After the intimate ceremony, the newlyweds took in all the sights of the Adelaide Botanic Garden during their walk to the reception (with the bride in a pair of incredible statement heels!), where guests dined, surrounded by fresh, fragrant flowers and candles. With their closest family and friends around them, all that was left was to eat, drink and dance the night away. DATE November 7, 2015. PHOTOGRAPHER Marieke at Luma (luma-wedding-photography.com.au). “We wanted our photos to capture…

“Top and skirt combos are great if your wedding is less formal and you want to wear the pieces again separately. I also love the current trend for blush and pink tones, rather than white and cream” While many of us have a good idea of the styles and shapes that suit us best, the wedding dress is a complete game-changer. These tips will help you find the ultimate gown to show off every amazing aspect of your figure. PEAR Flatter your smaller upper body with a classic princess-style gown. “A corset bodice and A-line skirt tend to work really well on pear-shaped figures, as they emphasise the waist while also hiding the hips and bottom,” says Roe. APPLE A corset is a great pick, since it helps cinch you…

YES (…SORT OF) says writer Phoebe Burgess “Yes, my parents did host, organise and coordinate my entire wedding recently (save the ceremony cost and booze, which is ‘traditionally’ groom territory). When you’re in your twenties embarking on married life, saying ‘no thanks’ to such a generous kickstart wasn’t a realistic option. But the word ‘expect’ is what this fresh-off-the-aisle bride takes issue with. We never actually expected their generosity, nor did we bank on it. In my family of three girls it’s simply the way it is done, and my husband and I respect the value and joy my parents placed on that moment. The romance of tradition dictates that yes, the bride’s mum and dad pay for it all. But not all families share the same values, and it’s…

YES says Ben Erbsland, Nova 100 presenter “Absolutely! Why not? If boys can do it, why can’t girls? I’d always wanted to be the one who proposed, but if Mel, my wife, had, I still would’ve rung our loved ones with equal excitement to share the news. Maybe it’s the idea of being traditional. I wanted to make her feel special in the moment. As a bloke, I wanted to hold out the ring and see the reaction on her face… and pack my dacks at the same time if she were to say no! Mel’s since said she knew all along I was going to do it. But at the time she played dumb. I think she liked that I did it. Maybe you girls, with all the hints,…

Glow on Look amazing on your special day with Vida Glow’s natural range of marine supplements that nourish hair, skin and nails from within. Visit ausnz.vidaglow.co. Harbourside heaven Panoramic views of Sydney Harbour combined with fine dining will make your celebration one to remember. Luna Park is the location of your dreams! Visit lunaparkweddings.com. The perfect fit Find a dress that’s completely “you” at The Bridal Atelier. With its stunning local and internationally sourced designer dresses, this is the perfect place to find “The one”. Visit thebridalatelier.com.au. Rooms with a view Celebrate in an exquisite setting like the Shangri-La Hotel, Sydney. Dedicated wedding experts will take care of every detail while you soak up the harbourside location. Visit shangri-la.com/Sydney. By the sea This gorgeous location is the ideal spot for…

Floral Whimsical, feminine and so, so fresh Tea length They say short is sweet, and we love this lady-like length Mermaid Because let’s face it, we all want to be Ariel Blue If you’re looking for something different, make your dress your something blue! Classic A princess skirt with plenty of volume is always a winner Feathers A little fluffy, plenty fabulous and statement-making Sheer Sexy and sophisticated at the same time Boho This relaxed style will float around with you all day V-neck Whether subtle or plunging, a v-shape is so flattering Open back Don’t forget that walk down the aisle – a fancy back is fun! Long sleeves Not just for winter brides, sleeves are a year-long trend Vintage For lovers of all things old-school, a retro style…

When did your love of photography and weddings begin? It started about 14 years ago when I married my husband, Dean Bentick. He had been a photographer for a number of years, and my background was in accounting and marketing. We decided early on we wanted to live fun, passionate lives and knew straight away we wanted to open a wedding photography studio together. So you made it your everyday work! Inlighten was born in 2002. I started working part-time in the studio, but we’ve always been people who can only do things 100 per cent, so before long I was working full-time. We started in a warehouse that also doubled as our home. We loved it because it had an open fire, and we used to sit around it…

DATE December 20, 2015 VENUE Ivy, NSW Ali and Dean’s big day was filled with stunning flowers, huge white balloons and hanging greenery. They were surrounded by loved ones during their ceremony, and after they said their vows it was time to celebrate! The reception was one big party, with the band getting everyone on the dance floor and the DJ keeping them there – the couple’s first dance even included an impressive lift! The speeches were a highlight, making everyone laugh (and cry), and the nearby cheese and chocolate tables were a hit. The happy newlyweds even shared a slice of their wedding cake at 2am after the party – sweet! DATE December 20, 2015. PHOTOGRAPHER Marcus at Studio Impressions (studioimpressions.com.au). “He captured the emotions of the day. We’re…

DATE July 18, 2015 VENUE Marlfield House, County Wexford, Ireland After Ben proposed while the couple visited Jill’s family in Ireland, they both agreed they’d marry there to honour the bride’s Irish roots. The day was blessed with sunshine, and once Jill saw her groom at the end of the aisle, she couldn’t take her eyes off him! After photos around the stunning property, it was on to the reception. Their first dance felt like a dream, and the celebration that followed turned into a huge party full of dancing, singing and love. The dance floor was rocking – there was even a rendition of Riverdance! – before guests continued the party into the wee hours. DATE July 18, 2015. PHOTOGRAPHER Mark Griffin (mark griffinphoto.com). “He was sensational and captured…

DATE November 14, 2015 VENUE Our Lady of Victories Catholic Parish & Sofitel Sydney Wentworth, NSW Despite a rainy start, nothing was going to put a dampener on the excitement of this happy couple. Maria was walked down the aisle by both her mum and dad and, once she locked eyes with her groom, all her nerves melted away. After, the pair arrived at the reception to find their planning had come to life! It was soon time to get the party started, with all the guests hitting the dance floor, setting a fun-filled atmosphere for the rest of the evening. Before they knew it, it was time for the newlyweds to make their way through the tunnel formed by the arms of their loved ones and head off into…

DATE October 4, 2015 VENUE Private property, Cumnock, NSW It was Emily’s dad who helped her keep it together for her walk down the aisle, by saying she couldn’t let him fall down the steps! The day took place on the groom’s family property, giving the whole affair an intimate touch, and a special ‘wed-shed’ was even built to host the occasion. Emily and Oliver were surprised at how sacred it felt saying their vows to each other; there was lots of hand-squeezing, happy tears and laughter. After a post-ceremony banquet, a friend gave the couple the best present ever – fireworks! He let them off in the paddock and the awesome display really got the party started. DATE October 4, 2015. PHOTOGRAPHER Anna Tenne Photography (annatennephotography.com). “Anna was a…

DATE August 8, 2015 VENUE Coast & Aqua Dining, NSW With their vows exchanged onboard a boat and a reception at iconic waterfront restaurant Aqua Dining, Hannah and Keith’s big day was centred around the gorgeous Sydney Harbour. After enjoying a little cruise and a few beach-side stops in bright sunshine, it was on to the reception, where the bride changed into a blinged-up pair of wedge-heeled Nike high-tops for their first dance – to Beyoncé’s Love On Top. Guests then danced the night away, enjoying the great music, stunning views… and a mouthwatering, four-tiered strawberry and watermelon cake – epic! What’s not to love?! DATE August 8, 2015. PHOTOGRAPHER April Mac Photography (aprilmacphotography.com.au). “April captured the fun and joy of the day.” DRESS, VEIL & EARRINGS Marry Me Bridal…

EXPERT TIP! Buy your jewels after the dress but before your hair trial. This way you’ll decide on a pair that will suit your gown as well as making sure your hairstyle matches, too. Win!…

These ladies decided to ditch the “something new” and walk down the aisle in “something old” – and very close to their hearts – instead… HANNAH MARTIN, 26, PAID TRIBUTE TO HER LATE MUM BY INCORPORATING THE LACE FROM HER WEDDING GOWN INTO HER OWN Five years ago in April 2011, as the world was getting ready to watch Prince William and Kate Middleton’s royal wedding, I decided to try on my late mum’s wedding dress. Wearing her gown, I knew that one day I wanted to be married in a classic long-sleeved lace gown myself. My mum passed away when I was 17 after a two-year battle with brain cancer, which was very difficult for me. I’m the youngest of eight children, and was the last to be married…

BRISBANE Coastal cool DARWIN Relaxed vibes SYDNEY Preppy classic HOBART Refined style CANBERRA Classy formal ADELAIDE Laid-back chic MELBOURNE Sharp style PERTH Modern traditional…

GETTING READY 1 So Wonderful by Emilia Mitiku 2 Bubbly by Colbie Caillat 3 Rescue Me by Fontella Bass 4 Can’t Take My Eyes Off You by Frankie Valli 5 You Give Me Something by James Morrison 6 With You by Chris Brown 7 Feel So Close by Calvin Harris 8 Dilemma by Nelly ft Kelly 9 I Gotta Feeling by The Black Eyed Peas 10 Just The Girl by The Click Five 11 Happy by Pharrell Williams 12 Crazy In Love by Beyoncé ft Jay-Z 13 Dancing In The Moonlight by Toploader 14 (God Must Have Spent) A Little More Time On You by *NSYNC 15 Into You by Fabolous ft Ashanti 16 We Found Love by Rihanna ft Calvin Harris 17 Teenage Dream by Katy Perry 18 Mine…

WALL ART Add a piece of art to your registry, or find something special to spend some of your wishing well money on. It’s a beautiful way to adorn your wall – something pretty that you both love. BUILD YOUR PERFECT BED It all starts with the mattress. And you should know there are a lot of options. Firm, soft, and everything in between! Plus, there are nifty extras, like the Forty Winks Silent Partner Mattress (queen from $1249, fortywinks.com.  au), which has independent sleeping zones. That means if you have a restless sleeper for a partner, you won’t be bothered on your side. Win! THE LOVE SEAT If your sofa or chairs are ready for an update, look for something sophisticated, comfy and durable.…