Real Bride Story: Esther wearing Petal by Monique Lhuillier
Bride & Groom: Esther & Toby
Wedding Dress: Monique Lhuillier Petal from Helen Rodrigues Bridal
Photography: Blumenthal Photography
Venue: Private Property
Floral: Family friends Nikki Barnett & Fiona Gorman
Planning & Styling: Studio Blanco
Accessories: Jennifer Behr Bow from Helen Rodrigues Bridal
Hair & Makeup: Jones + Me & Ashleigh Messner Make Up + Hayley Smith
Videography: Soda Film
Custom Tableware: Luxe and Beau Designs
The Meeting
We actually went to primary school together, Mt Carmel Yass. Both went off to boarding school in Sydney and then both moved back home to Yass at the beginning of Covid where we rekindled.
The Social Studio (my marketing agency) took a hit during COVID so I needed to do something new, I started a business called Yass 2 You which delivered people food + groceries from local vendors. Tobys mum would order off me, so I would deliver out to their place and that’s how we met back up.
The Proposal
Very sneaky, had all of my family involved. I’m across a lot of things so its hard to get anything past me, they all did very well. He proposed at my dads house in Yass in the garden, I went to pick Toby up from Dads to go to family dinner and when I arrived I noticed a little scavenger hunt set up with photos that had notes on the back + roses which created a trail throughout the garden that then led me to where he had set up a picnic.
He had organised my whole family to come over and celebrate and my best friends to travel to town. We had the best night! My brother and his wife flew in from Tasmania as a surprise with their 5 week old daughter Matilda. The following day all of our closest friends met us out at the Cookes farm and we had a paddock bbq, celebrated all weekend.
Wedding Day Vision
I’ve always loved the South of France, so the overall inspiration was drawn from the St Tropez/Provence region. But I also wanted to combine that with the significance of getting married on Toby’s family farm in Yass. Since we’re both from there, Yass holds a special place in our hearts. We came up with ‘Le Paddock De Provence’ as a way to blend those two worlds. I think that’s also why the dress felt so perfect, once I found it, everything else just fell into place.
We planned a lunchtime wedding with a relaxed, long-lunch vibe under umbrellas. We served Italian food and enjoyed the sunshine, dancing while it was still light, through sunset, and into the evening. My friend Georgie, who owns Luxe and Beau Design, created beautiful custom tablecloths, napkins, and lamps that really stood out, the tablescapes were inspired by the dress.
This theme shaped every decision I made for the wedding.
Where did you look for wedding dress inspiration?
Instagram naturally as a social media agency.
The Wedding Dress: Monique Lhuillier Petal from Helen Rodrigues Bridal
I had the most magical, beautiful experience at Helen Rodrigues Bridal. Helen, Brooke, and Sophie made the entire process so special, relaxed, and completely stress-free. I didn’t feel as comfortable or cared for anywhere else. They let me take my time with no rush or pressure, and their advice was invaluable, I truly leaned on them throughout.
“I can’t speak highly enough of my experience with Helen Rodrigues Bridal. I was absolutely obsessed with the gowns, they’re truly the most beautiful you’ll find but what really made the whole process unforgettable was Brooke and Helen themselves. They’re not just incredibly knowledgeable and professional, they’re also so warm, genuine and fun. I always felt completely supported, relaxed, and at ease with them. Honestly, I’m sad we don’t chat as much anymore now that the wedding is over! ”
Wedding Day Highlight
It’s so hard to choose just one highlight I truly had the most incredible time. Beyond marrying Toby and celebrating with all our family and friends, one of the standout moments was our entrance into the reception lunch on the tennis court.
We didn’t want a traditional, formal first dance, so after everyone was served tequila shots, we led our guests straight onto the dance floor to join us for our ‘first dance’ to Love Story by Taylor Swift. Friends lifted us onto their shoulders, it was absolutely magical.
Advice for future #HRBride’s
Trust your vendors. They are the professionals who have done this time and time again. When I started reminding myself of this often I was able to let go of control and enjoy the process more.
Whether you're looking for a classic wedding dress or something truly unique, Helen Rodrigues Bridal offers a truly personalised experience for every bride. Book your appointment today and find your dream gown.
