Real Bride Erin wearing Monique Lhuillier Bliss
“Working with the team at Helen Rodrigues was an absolute dream! From my first consultation to my final fitting - every step was handled with such professionalism and my favourite part, kindness. My entire experience was so memorable and one I will never forget. The entire team at Helen Rodrigues cannot do enough for you. From helping you select your dream gown, to alterations-ensuring your gown fits perfectly and finally, helping you complete your look with the perfect accessories. Thank you so much Helen and your team. I cannot thank you enough!”
Bride & Groom: Erin & Nicholas
Gown: Monique Lhuillier Bliss with custom sleeves from Helen Rodrigues Bridal
Photography: Blumenthal Photography
Planning & Styling: Myself and the Grounds of Alexandria events co-ordinator, Vanessa Wall
Venue: Linseed House, Grounds of Alexandria
Floral: Florals by Silva
Accessories: HR Bridal Accessories - Jennifer Behr Bailey Headband and Jenny Packham earrings
Bridesmaid dresses: Ginger and Smart
Hair: Lily & Co
Makeup: Bernadette Leva MUA
Videography: Soda Films
How did you and your husband meet?
Nicolas and I met through mutual friends. I was having some people over for dinner at my place and Nick happened to tag along. We instantly hit it off and became good friends. We started spending a lot of time speaking to each other over the phone and eventually after hour long phone calls we went on our first official date. Fast forward almost 6 years and we are married!
How did he propose?
I arrived home from work one afternoon thinking I had a quiet night on my own only to walk into my bedroom covered in white roses and candles with Nicholas down on one knee. At first, I thought it was a joke but then I took a few steps forward and noticed the ring. I was completely caught off guard and surprised. It was so special. We immediately called our closest friends and family to share the news.
What was your vision for your wedding day?
Throughout the entire process of planning my wedding, I consistently kept thinking about if I would look back in 10 years’ time and still love my choices. When it came to decisions like bridesmaid dresses or invitations, part of me would consider opting for something really trendy and different, but I kept coming back to the extremely classic option instead. I knew that my vision was timeless elegance and so I trusted my gut and went down that path and know that I will look back in years to come and be so happy that I made those choices.
Where did you look for your wedding inspiration?
Like most brides, I found a lot of inspiration through Instagram. There are so many amazing bridal and wedding pages that would fill my feed with beautiful inspiration images. I kept folders filled with pictures of hairstyles or flowers that I loved however I always ended up going back to the most classic and timeless options. Looking back on everything, I’m so happy with all of my choices for the day.
What drew you to your gown from Helen Rodrigues Bridal?
When I imagined myself as a bride, I had a very clear vision of what I thought I wanted. I had always pictured myself in a very structured gown with an amazing back feature. I was very open to trying other options as soon as I saw myself in my gown for the first time, I knew it was the one. It embodied everything that I had always dreamed of in a wedding gown. I also loved the process of working with Helen and her seamstress in making armbands. I had seen the idea from another Monique Lhuillier gown and fortunately, I was able to work with the team at Helen Rodrigues in bringing that vision to life with my own gown.
What was your wedding planning journey like for you? How far out did you start planning?
I began planning about 2 weeks after we got engaged. I made sure Nicholas and I allowed a couple of weeks to just soak in our engagement before even thinking about a single wedding plan. Once we locked in our venue, we began to plan. I will admit, it did get very stressful and at times I would avoid a lot of it because I didn’t want to deal with it. But with the help of great friends and family, it all came together. You definitely need to continue reminding yourself to enjoy the process because it all goes by very fast.
What was the biggest decision you had to make?
To be honest, because I had such a clear vision from day one, I never really struggled making any decisions. But if I had to say one, it would be whether or not to wear my headband for the ceremony.
What was the highlight of your wedding day?
Dancing up a storm on our epic dance floor and celebrating with our nearest and dearest! It is honestly such a special time that I will cherish forever. Oh, and doing a champagne shower with my husband from on top of our bridal table!
Is there anything you would do differently?
Not at all. Our day was truly magical, and I wouldn’t want to change a thing.
Is there any advice you would give other HRBride’s?
When your one-week wedding countdown begins, soak in every minute. It flies by so quickly and every single aspect from the week leading up to your wedding until the day is so special.
