REAL WEDDING Australian Dream 3134 views

Shadan & Stuart
10 October 2008
They Met Stuart and Shadan met when Shadan had just relocated to London from Sydney. She had started at a new job where she met Stuart and a few weeks later she agreed to have a quick drink with him. Two years later Stuart proposed during a surprise shopping spree holiday in New York. He popped the question whilst sailing by the Statue of Liberty on a candlelit cruise, with a phone at hand so that Shadan could phone her parents!

Wedding Venue As a teenager Shadan had always dreamt of marrying in Curzon Hall in Sydney, Australia and after showing it to Stuart ten years later, they both fell in love with it and decided it was the place for them. They were enchanted by its historic charm and romantic feel, as well as the beautiful castle connecting them to England.

The Theme The couple decided not to have a set theme but made sure the day encompassed elegance with soft candlelight, flowing gowns and flowers. The table centres at the reception consisted of black wrought iron candelabras with a floral arrangement of deep pink roses, oriental lilies and Singapore orchids. They also placed disposable cameras on each table for guests and gave favours of silver chocolate hearts in white organza bags.

What They Wore The bride made a statement with her strapless, ivory A-line gown, with a soft organza and satin ruffled skirt and full train. She complimented it with a cathedral length veil with scattered diamante on, and drop crystal earrings and necklace with a chunky Swarovski ring. She finished her outfit with peep-toe, ivory heels from Dune.

The groom wore a black suit with an ivory raw silk cravat and matching waistcoat, accessorized with black and white brogues. The ushers wore the same, with suits hired in Sydney, along with some extra personalised socks and cufflinks!

The bride had three bridesmaids who wore full-length, light green gowns with a satin trim and small train. Each wore a large flower hair accessory, with simple pearl jewellery and an ivory lace parasol to hold.

The Cake The couple chose a two-tiered white and dark chocolate mud cake, with butter cream icing and lilies.

The Flowers Shadan carried a cascading bouquet of white oriental lilies, dusty pink rose blooms, Singapore orchids and trailing ferns and flax leaves. The reception was decorated with Dodda vines and clusters of lilies, rose blooms, orchids and foliage. The buttonholes were kept simple with single white roses.

First Dance The happy couple danced a traditional waltz to ‘Fields of Gold’ by Sting, followed by a Rock ‘n Roll rendition to ‘Do you Love Me?’ by The Contours. The music that followed was provided by Sydney band, ‘Band of the Giants’ with jazz and blues.

A Moment To Remember Shadan loved walking down the aisle with her father to the sounds of a Scottish piper and drummer, as well as his emotional speech later.

Honeymoon The newlyweds jetted off to Jamaica to a luxury couples-only resort called Couples Swept Away, located on a seven mile stretch of beach. They chose it as it was new for them both, all-inclusive and offered a diverse range of activites.

Any Advice?
Shadan advises, ‘Be 110% sure and clear on whom you want supporting you on your big day and scrapbook all of your ideas.’ She also comments that she couldn’t live without, ‘Spreadsheets and two fabulous little online tools called weddingpath.co.uk and toptableplanner.com’

Shadan & Stuart’s Contact Book:
Venue: Curzon Hall, Sydney
Photographer: Gordon Jovic Photography
Dress:Justin Alexander Bridal
Groomswear: Formalwear Express
Cake: Cakes N Stuff
Flowers: Sincerely Yours Florist