Real Bride Story: Simone wearing Galia Lahav Élysée
Bride & Groom: Simone Kaissis & George Hronis
Planning & Styling: Mrs Smith Weddings
Gown: Galia Lahav Élysée from Helen Rodrigues Bridal
Accessories: Veil from Helen Rodrigues, earrings from Paspaley
Bridesmaids dresses: Zimmerman
Venue: Hyatt Regency Sydney
Photography: Loulou Memphis
Videography: Anemotion
Floral: Montana Flora
Makeup: Amy Hanneman
Entertainment: One Round Entertainment
How did you and your husband meet?
My husband and I met at Marquee, a Sydney nightclub through mutual friends.
How did he propose?
He surprised me on the Greek island of Kefalonia at a lighthouse where the sunset could not have been more perfect!
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What was your vision for your wedding day?
I wanted the day to not have the traditional “clean-white” style. We wanted something moody that captured old-world elegance but turned into a huge party where our guests would have a night to remember.
Where did you look for your wedding inspiration?
Instagram, TikTok, and our planners putting together styling guides based on their research.
What drew you to your gown from Helen Rodrigues Bridal?
The first place I visited for sourcing my gown was HRB. Élysée was the second dress I tried on from Galia’s collection, and the way the sample gown sat on me was perfect; it was as though the dress was made for my physique. I loved how versatile the dress was and how I achieved 3 different looks in one dress, all by taking off layers as the day went on. When I went to look at other bridal stores and try on other gowns, my mind kept going back to Élysée, and I knew that it was the dress for me.
What was your wedding planning journey like for you? How far out did you start planning?
Engaging and sourcing planners was the best decision we made! We started planning 18 months out. Jaime from Mrs Smith Weddings lead, delivered and executed everything, she made the wedding planning process so enjoyable with minimal stress.
What was the biggest decision you had to make?
The biggest decision was finding a venue that comfortably accommodated our large guest list of 300+ and offered incredible food and service.
What was the highlight of your wedding day for you?
There were so many highlights it’s impossible to name just one! Each stage of the day, there was something amazing to highlight. However, to answer the question, I think I would have to say that giving a joint speech with George was a main highlight, as it was the first time we spoke together as one. This was followed by a surprise DJ act and the wedding turned into a rave… very fitting for George and I!
Is there anything you would do differently?
Nothing at all – I even planned an afterparty that finished at 3 am so the party didn’t have to end! One Round Entertainment supplied an LED dance floor and lighting; it was like we travelled back to Studio 54.
Is there any advice you would give other #HRBride's?
It’s true when they say the day goes so quickly, so make sure you sit back and take a moment to absorb it all. While you’re having your meal, just look up and see the masterpiece you have put your blood, sweat and tears into. Take in all the love in the room, everyone is there to celebrate you. It’s all worth it in the end!
“There is truly no one better in the industry than HRB for bridal gowns. I am not lying when I say my favourite part of the whole wedding journey was my bridal fittings with Helen & the team. I LOVED my dress and every layer of it! I am so grateful I got to share the HRB experience with my mum as well. HRB make every bride feel like they are the only bride in the world and I will always have the best memories of my bridal gown journey at Helen Rodrigues Bridal.”
