Real Bride Story: Lara wearing Monique Lhuillier Bliss for her Hunter Valley wedding
Bride & Groom: Lara and Will
Wedding Dress: Monique Lhuillier Bliss from Helen Rodrigues Bridal
Accessories: Peter Langner veil from Helen Rodrigues Bridal
Photography: Storytellers Wedding Co
Venue: Enzo Weddings Hunter Valley
Floral: Peonies Boutique Weddings
Hair & Makeup: Chic Artistry
Styling: Peonies Boutique Weddings
Videography: Storytellers Wedding Co
Bridesmaid dresses: Bec and Bridge
Musicians: Monday Lane
Car: classic Limousines Newcastle
How They Met
We met on a university ski trip (subski), back in 2017. We instantly had a connection, but after coming back from the trip nothing really eventuated and we stayed friends for a number of years. We reconnected at a music event where Will asked to hang out sometime so he could spend time with my new puppy at the time, Freddie (who was our ring bearer at the wedding!)
The Proposal
In Kirribilli in front of the harbour bridge, where we had one of our first picnic dates during covid.
Wedding Day Vision
Romantic and timeless, with some colour and fun to represent us.
The Wedding Dress: Monique Lhuillier Bliss from Helen Rodrigues Bridal
I always wanted to get married in a ball gown type dress to truly have my princess moment on our wedding day, and strapless dresses had always seemed so gorgeous and flattering. All of the fitted wedding dresses just didn’t feel like enough! The beautiful Nicole suggested things that would highlight my waist and figure, so most of the credit should go to her. The scooped neckline and detailing was just perfect, as was the skirt.
The Experience at Helen Rodrigues Bridal
“Helen Rodrigues Bridal gave me the most amazing wedding dress experience from the start until well after the wedding. From the moment I walked into the store I felt so welcomed, and like everything I said was acknowledged and taken into account, and it was all incredibly important. Nicole was amazing about helping me choose certain styles based on what I wanted in a dress, but was also happy to show me why she leaned towards one style over the other. Her experience and attention to detail was like nothing else, and she picked it from the very beginning that the Monique Lhuillier gown would be my wedding dress (even if I didn’t truly know myself).
Every fitting appointment was fantastic, and all the alterations and changes were done flawlessly. I am also so grateful for being able to duck into the store a few times in-between to get advice on jewellery and shoes. On the wedding day my dress was absolutely perfect. I’m devastated I don’t need to go back to Helen Rodrigues Bridal again, as it was such a beautiful experience throughout every step, and Helen, Nicole, Sophie and the whole team are truly wonderful people. I feel very grateful that my dress came from there, and that I am a Helen Rodrigues Bride!”
Biggest Decision
Definitely my dress! Especially after having an unexpected shoulder surgery 10 months before the wedding and being self conscious about my scar, I was worried I would have to choose something completely different and I tried on over 50 wedding dresses.
Wedding Day Highlight
Marrying the love of my life, and saying our vows during our ceremony. Our first dance was also incredibly special.
What would she change?
I would start the ceremony earlier so that we could have more time to mingle with our guests during cocktail hour. We didn’t do a first look so we were off taking photos a lot of the time, and the day just flew by so we didn’t get a chance to talk to many people! We also didn’t spend nearly as much time with our families as we would’ve liked to.
Advice for future #HRBride’s
Trust the bridal stylists with all your heart! Nicole knew the moment I walked out in the Monique Lhullier dress the first time that it was going to be my wedding dress, and she could see on my face that I immediately pictured the whole wedding with me in that dress. However, I thought I needed to try on lots of dresses before definitely choosing the one, which actually just led to a lot of confusion. Helen Rodrigues stylists (especially Nicole), are incredible, and they truly know what they’re talking about.
Are you a bride-to-be? Find Your Dream Gown at Helen Rodrigues Bridal
Whether you're looking for a classic wedding dress or something truly unique, Helen Rodrigues Bridal offers a luxurious, personalised experience for every bride. Book your appointment today and make your wedding day unforgettable.
