Real Bride Story: Jess wearing Monique Lhuillier
Bride & Groom: Jessica & Mark
Wedding Dress: Monique Lhuillier gown from Helen Rodrigues Bridal
Photography: Hotel Amore Photography
Venue: Hotel Caesar Augustus, Capri Italy
Floral: Capri Flor
Planning & Styling: SB Events
Accessories: Peter Langner veil from Helen Rodrigues Bridal, Jimmy Choo shoes, Natasha Sweitzer jewellery.
Videography: Houndstooth Films
Bridesmaid Dresses: Shona Joy
How did you and your husband meet?
We’d actually known each other for years through mutual friends, dating back to my early twenties. We would cross paths and chat occasionally, but it wasn’t until my mid-twenties that we properly reconnected. In true modern-day fashion, I sent him a very subtle “M” on Facebook and pretended it was a mistake, just to spark a conversation. He suggested we catch up for a drink, and the rest is history.
How did he propose?
Mark doesn’t do anything in halves. We were traveling through the Greek Islands, and while we were on the island of Milos, he organised a beautiful afternoon on a boat. We spent the day swimming and exploring hidden spots you can only reach by sea, including Polyaigos. As the sun was setting off the coast of Milos, he proposed on the boat.
Our captain was hilariously nervous – he’d never been involved in a proposal before and almost turned the job down. We were also completely sunburnt with snorkel marks on our faces in the photos, which makes it even more special. It was absolutely perfect.
What was your vision for your wedding day?
Elegant, classic, and timeless – and truly reflective of the breathtaking Italian setting we were in. I wanted the styling to complement the destination rather than overpower it. We never wanted to look back and feel like anything was “too trendy.”
We envisioned a relaxed, intimate celebration, which is why we chose to get married in Italy. Being overseas naturally creates a sense of presence – everyone is truly in the moment.
Mark and I love travelling together, and it’s where we’ve always connected the most, so it felt very true to us. Food and wine are also incredibly important to us, so that was a non-negotiable. Our venue, Hotel Caesar Augustus, delivered beyond expectations. We wanted a beautiful ceremony followed by a relaxed, intimate dinner with exceptional food and wine – and that’s exactly what we had.
We also loved the idea of extending the celebration beyond just one day. Being abroad meant we could host welcome drinks and a recovery, giving us more time with the people we love. The recovery was held at a Capri beach club followed by the most incredible Italian feast, and it ended up being one of the best days of our lives.
Where did you look for your wedding gown inspiration?
Working in PR and Events over the years, I drew a lot of inspiration from past brand events and styling concepts I’ve worked on. I already had a strong sense of what I loved and what I didn’t. I also turned to Instagram and TikTok, as well as bridal editorials like Vogue Bride, The Wed, and The Bridal Journey for visual inspiration.
Tell us about your experience at Helen Rodrigues Bridal and what drew you to your gown?
Getting married in Italy, I knew I wanted a classic lace gown, and to me that meant Monique Lhuillier. Her lace designs are truly unmatched, and I’d heard rave reviews about Helen Rodrigues who is the exclusive Australian stockist. Helen was my first stop, and my last!
I originally went in thinking I would choose a ball gown, but the team at Helen Rodrigues, knowing my petite frame, suggested I try a fitted style. I didn’t think it would be “the one” – but the very first dress I tried on ended up being my gown, with a few bespoke tweaks. It was absolutely perfect.
What was your wedding planning journey like for you? How far out did you start planning?
Because we were planning an overseas wedding, we started about 18 months out. I took the lead on sourcing the venue and suppliers, and I was lucky that Mark was just as involved and just as particular as I am.
One of my close friends Lauren from SB Events supported us throughout the entire process and was truly instrumental in bringing our vision to life. She conducted site visits across multiple venues in Italy, managed the styling and suppliers, and even travelled to Italy with us to coordinate everything on the ground - which made the whole experience incredibly special. We couldn’t have done it without her!
What was the biggest decision you had to make?
Choosing the destination. Asking guests to travel not only to Italy, but to the island of Capri, is a big commitment. We had to come to terms with the fact that some people we love wouldn’t be able to make it – and that was definitely the hardest part.
What was the highlight of your wedding day for you?
The time between the ceremony and the reception. It was our moment to breathe, take photos, spend time together, and truly take in where we were. Standing in Capri, surrounded by our friends and family, soaking up the view and the atmosphere – it was pure magic.
Mark’s speech was also unforgettable.
Is there anything you would do differently?
I would spend a little more time with our guests during aperitif. We got caught up in photos and missed the chance to connect with everyone more in that moment.
Is there any advice you would give other #HRBride’s?
Be as organised and prepared as you can, but once the day arrives, let go and enjoy it. What’s done is done – and you’ll never regret being present, relaxed, and fully immersed in the moment with your husband and your guests.
Also, practise walking down the aisle with your veil over your face! I didn’t realise how hard it is to see until the big moment.
And finally – post-wedding obsession is very real. You’ll probably fixate on tiny details you wish you’d changed (I certainly did), but none of it truly matters. With time, you’ll only remember the joy, the love, and the magic of the day.
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.
