Portobello Bride

Portobello Bride 'Girls Night In' Morning Tea

2011-10-30T19:18:00.000+11:00

Last Tuesday we held a 'Girls Night In' party to raise vital funds for Women's Cancer. It was the first one I have organised, and I loved every minute. I am already looking forward to next years. It's the perfect occasion to gather together your girlfriends, taking time out of your busy lives to celebrate friendship and womanhood whilst offering support and awareness to a very relevant and important cause.

I had decided on a Bright Pink and Daffodil Yellow theme, the colours of the "Girls Night In" charity. I called on lovely Portobello Bride Members to help me create a morning tea like like no other my friends had experienced.

First on my 'To Do' list was the invitations. Samone, one half of Cake Ink, created an original stationery suite for us. I wanted something in bright pink, that was very 'Portobello'. The first design Samone sent me was perfect, the Bottoms Up coasters were the most talked about detail of the day, the girls loved them!

Lucky you, we will be providing a free printable version of the Stationery suite for you with compliments from Cake Ink! Check back soon...

The most important detail of the day, the Sweets was next! Juli from One Sweet Girl went above and beyond anything I imagined for our dessert buffet. There were chocolate cake pops, brownies, cupcakes, marshmallows, cookies and the piéce de resistance, a white chocolate ganache with fresh raspberry ribbon cake.

Flowers are a must have when ever I am entertaining. I called on the lovely Virginia of The Bouquets of Ascha Jolie to arrange the most beautiful pink and yellow blooms for the party. Everyone commented on them, and I really appreciated the extra loose bunches Virginia provided for me to use throughout my home to complement our Girls Night In spread. That's what I love about all our members, the service they offer is simply exceptional.

The finishing touch was the pretty vintage glassware and crockery we hired from A Vintage Affair. Lee Elizabeth George from A Vintage Affair provided the perfect ensemble of coupette glasses for our champagne and daiquiris, cake plates and the cutest cake forks I have ever seen.

Floral arrangements by The Bouquets of Ascha Jolie

I placed photographs of the important women in my life throughout the desserts by One Sweet Girl.

My favourite sweet of the day, chocolate brownies with raspberry icing.

Bottoms Up! Cake Ink printable coasters- you can get yours here soon!

Pretty drinks in pretty glassware by A Vintage Affair!

My niece, Eliza Valentine sneaking a cake pop!

Not forgetting the reason for our fabulous do! The girls donated generously to our 'Girls Night In' fundraiser. Thank you xx

The most divine cake I have ever tasted. Juli is certainly One Talented Sweet Girl!

The ever cheeky Lucy, kicking up her pretty heels!

I must make a special mention to Lisa of Who's A Clever Girl? Photography who travelled to my home on the Peninsula from Melbourne to photograph our event for you all to see. Lisa worked her magic around us all, blending in and capturing so many sweet moments.

Thank you also to all who donated online to our Portobello Bride page on The Girls Night In website. We raised just over $500, and we look forward to raising more in the coming year. The winner of our two tickets to a Portobello Bride event in 2012 is, Kylie Blake. Congratulations Kylie, and thank you again.

all images captured by Lisa Kerr-Atkinson of Who's A Clever Girl? Photography

Portobello Bride Featured Wedding - Marina & Andy by Cookes Food

2011-10-26T21:34:00.001+11:00

Just a little warning, in case you haven't had lunch as yet, this wedding is filled with the most delectable images of food, glorious food!

Marina and Andy's 1950's style wedding was held at the beautiful Fitzroy Town hall in Melbourne, Cookes Food catered for the day. Serving their signature style of locally sourced, classic, rustic style cuisine with a 1950's twist!

Here Sophie Cooke of Cookes Food shares their part in Marina and Andys Wedding day story:

it was a perfect day...crisp morning, sunny afternoon and warm evening...We arrived onsite at the town hall at 2pm. it was exciting to know that Marina and Andy were around the corner getting hitched at the Russian House in Fitzroy, where they had giant white balloons and morris miners to drive them to the town hall. Nicole was laying tables with hand sewn calico fabric, dressed with old fashioned doilies each setting finished with the brides hand sewn napkin and vintage serviette ring and bone cutlery...all the vision of Marina who had laboriously sewn in the months prior. A selection of furniture from the Junk Company acted as props around the room adding to the 1950's charm. Sara, of Mr Lincoln was foraging through her flowers, vegetables and herbs putting together the perfect bundles and arrangements, including stocks, beetroot, chives and cabbage leaves. Roger from Palace Props arrived with the giant LOVE letters, which were positioned as the room dividers! In the kitchen we chopped, tasted, dressed, tested and excitedly put some of the retro style canapes together...house cured salmon from the Melbourne Pantry sat atop paper thin crisps, accompanied with sieved egg and very 50's chive mayonnaise. We did our own take on pigs in blanket by filling stunning medjul dates with Gorgonzola piccante and wrapped poached autumn pears with prosciutto-served piping hot. Lee from a vintage affair lent us adorable old fashioned platters which were the perfect back drop to the themed canapes. after the canapes the guests took their seats and the staff, dressed in sequin bow ties, served the main - duck l'orange with shaved savoy cabbage salad and slow roasted lamb with celeriac puree and pineapple relish...

Frivolity followed with speeches, dancing and cutting of the cake! Nicole set up next to the cake a selection of macaron, brown sugar meringues and beautiful la luna cheese... Following this guests departed through the main town hall entrance and watched as the bride and groom rode their vintage bikes - labelled with JUST MARRIED - down the street!

All images captured by Jorge de Araujo

Thank you Sophie Cookes and Nicole De Bono of Cookes Food for sharing your beautiful wedding day fare with us today. We look forward to sharing many more of your gorgeous celebrations in the future.

Getting To Know… Lillybuds

2011-10-05T11:27:00.002+11:00

Lillybuds / Perth / Website / Email

what is your favourite part of your job - receiving wedding photos from brides, as i only sell online i have little contact with brides, so receiving email and photos is such a lovely surprise to the day.

what are you reading at the moment - as always, wedding magazines and blogs. its so important to keep up with current trends.

what are you lusting after at the moment - i have a new design, a teardrop brooch bouquet, i cant stop looking at it, and may not be able to part with it.

top 3 songs on playlist - anything by Adele, Amy Winehouse or Eminem

favourite moment of a wedding - the first look.

who inspires you - what rather than who, fashion, colours, real flowers and wedding dresses.

favourite cocktail - i don't drink.

what does it take to impress you - manners, creativity, and passion for life.

best piece of advice you were ever given - to make button bouquets for weddings.

favourite way to spend sunday - watching movies whilst working.

black tie or casual - definitely casual

new name for hens night - i don't have one.

your favourite hostess gift to give - a button bouquet of course

what's the best gift you have ever received - my laptop

3 words that describe you best - dedicated, creative and generous.

Thank you Liza for sharing a little bit about yourself with us today.

Portobello Bride Featured Wedding Film: Kate & Mike by Moments Captured

2011-09-26T10:10:00.000+10:00

We have something very special for you today, grab a tissue or two, as this is one of the most beautiful and moving wedding films we have seen. I thinks it tugged at our heart strings a little due to the fact the gorgeous bride is Kate a new friend to Portobello Bride and the editor of the sweet wedding blog The Apple Aisle.

Joshua Lamont from Moments Captured created this beautiful wedding film for Mike and Kate, he is a new favourite of ours. His sensitive style, capturing the moments in the lead up to the wedding are his signature style, and we think they are truly fabulous. What bride wouldn't want to see how her husband-to-be spent the morning, sitting, pondering over words that describe his love for her.

Renee & An: Engagement Session by It's Beautiful Here

2011-09-19T09:00:00.017+10:00

As more Australian couples are choosing to have a photography session once they get engaged, the variety of the style of shoots is increasing. This memento shoot of Renee and An by It's Beautiful Here is unlike anything we have seen before! And we love it!

When Kat & Scout from It's Beautiful Here were getting to know the couple, the photographers discovered their love of shopping in Second-Hand shops, which became the setting for the shoot. What a unique idea! The session took place at the quaint little Gisborne Anglican Parish Op Shop.

Getting to Know... EmmyRose

2011-09-14T09:00:00.001+10:00

EmmyRose | New South Wales | Website | Blog | Twitter | Facebook

What’s your favourite part of your job?
Creating a design from words and being able to bring someone’s vision to life

What are you reading at the moment?
The Monk, The Farmer, The Merchant

What are you lusting after at the moment?
An oak cabinet I found at a nearby store that needs some love and attention

Top three songs on your play list?
Messages – Xavier Rudd
Dig – Incubus
Landslide – Fleetwood Mac

What is your favourite moment during a wedding?
Ohh that’s easy I always look at the grooms face, when the bride walks in.

Who inspires you?
Too many to mention, but I do love Frankie, Peppermint and Country Style magazines & blogs

Favourite Cocktail?
I’m a red wine lady.

What does it take to impress you?
Anyone who is genuine, honest and is inspired by what they do.

What is the best piece of advice you were ever given?
Keep your eyes open

Favourite way to spend a Sunday?
A sleep in, a coffee pot, and a potter in the garden

Black Tie or Casual?
Casual

Your suggestion for a new name for ‘Hens party’ ?
A ladies do

Your favourite hostess gift to give?
Anything from my new garden, so blooms, blossoms or vegies.

What’s the best gift you have ever received?
A hug when in love

Three words that describe you best.
Visual, sensitive, hopeless romantic

Thanks so much for sharing with us today Emmy. It has been lovely to get to know you a little more!

Bride To Be Magazine Beauty Survey

2011-09-12T16:25:00.000+10:00

Bride To Be magazine is currently running a Beauty Survey on their website. They want to find out all about your beauty routine leading up to your big day!

Take part in the survey and you will be entered in the draw to win a SK-II product pack worth $348! Be quick as the survey closes this Friday [Sept 16].

Click here to take the survey.

[image by Lina Tesch]

Lorgie & Me Handmade Photo Albums

2011-09-11T21:34:00.001+10:00

After your wedding day is over your most treasured possession from your day will no doubt be your wedding album. I am loving these handsome albums by the very talented and lovely Kamma Spring of Lorgie & Me.

Made from sustainable materials and design, each album and guest book can be customised to suit your requirements.

I love the idea of a Lorgie & Me album for an anniversary gift for your partner, filled with photographs and mementos from your time together.

Lorgie & Me albums, notebooks and specialty goods are starting to pop up in selective boutiques and of course on our favourite online stores, Etsy, Made It and Blue Caravan.

Applications now open for Melbourne & Sydney 2012

2011-09-09T15:51:00.000+10:00

It is time to get organised for Portobello Bride 2012!

Please visit the website, and apply for:

Melbourne Autumn/Winter 26 & 27 May 2012, St Kilda Town Hall, St Kilda

Sydney Spring/Summer 18-19 August 2012, The Byron Kennedy Hall, Moore Park

Adelaide- we will announce the details for this event in October.

If you apply for both markets you will receive a multi booking discount of 15% off the total balance.

Keep in mind we are not running Portobello Bride as a State event, it is a National event, where many brides and industry will travel to attend. We would like to see as many interstate participants as possible. We unfortunately have not got the resources to be holding such an event in every state at this time. We will hold smaller events like we are in Adelaide, but The Boutique Wedding Market is at the moment only to be held in Melbourne & Sydney.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at kim@portobellobride.com.au

We have some more exciting news to announce next week, which we hope many of our members will be part of!

Portobello Bride Featured Wedding: Kirsty & Michael by Caspix Photography

2011-09-08T14:30:00.002+10:00

Today's wedding may not be filled with all the details that we do really love here at Portobello, but we really wanted to share this wedding with you; as it shows how you can still celebrate your wedding with all the tradition and formality in a relaxed, elegant style.

I think what made Kirsty and Michael's wedding stand out, was not only the beautiful Hunter Valley location, but the way Caspix captured their wedding day in the same classic and timeless style as the day itself. There are so many weddings photographed with quirky posed shots, that it was refreshing to see one photographed in a traditional style with lovely group portraits and candid images of the day. I have no doubt Kirsty and Michael will forever love their wedding photos, as they are simply beautiful, timeless images that really resonate with the couples style.

With Kirsty being the eldest of seven children, and the first to marry. We have no doubt this will be a family favourite.

We are seriously loving the 1950's vintage wedding cars.

The choice of relaxed bouquets of daisies help this traditional wedding achieve a relaxed and warm feel.

Thank you Caspix for sharing these lovely images of Kirsty and Michael's wedding with us.

Getting to Know... A Vintage Affair

2011-09-07T09:00:00.000+10:00

A Vintage Affair | South Melbourne VIC | Website | Blog | Facebook

What’s your favourite part of your job?
Wow so many things….. I get to spend my days travelling to quaint little country towns, treasure hunting for beautiful vintage pieces, what could be better than that? All my clients are embarking on the happiest time of their lives, it is really special to be able to share that time with them.

What are you reading at the moment?
My French Life by Vicki Archer. Not so much reading but looking at the pictures with envy!

What are you lusting after at the moment?
A gorgeous 1950s cocktail dress on www.lovemissdaisy.com – a UK site that sells amazing vintage frocks.

Top three songs on your play list?
The Hotel Costes series on random shuffle,
L.O.V.E. by Nat King Cole
and anything by Hall and Oates (sad but true!).

What is your favourite moment during a wedding?
The anticipation right before the bride is about to enter. It’s the culmination of all that preparation, it’s that one magic moment in a wedding when it’s all about the bride... the atmosphere is electric!

Who inspires you?
All the gorgeous artisans I get to work with, other stylists, photographers, catering geniuses that make each wedding so personal and truly stunning. The creativity and style within the boutique wedding space is amazing and they are all such wonderful people. And Parisians who are so stylish even if they are only popping out for milk and bread.

Favourite Cocktail?
If it’s the beginning of the night, French champagne. If it’s close to the end of the night, an Espresso Martini, so that it’s not almost the end of the night anymore.

What does it take to impress you?
People who are true to themselves and forge their path by doing what they love to do, not what they think they should.

What is the best piece of advice you were ever given?
Happiness is up to you.

Favourite way to spend a Sunday?
A slow breakfast at a small café, coffee and baked eggs reading both Sunday papers cover to cover, a drive through the countryside listening to jazz, discovering unexpected treasures at flea markets or small country towns, followed by a big Sunday roast and red wine with friends.

Black Tie or Casual?
Black Tie always

Your suggestion for a new name for ‘Hens party’.
I wish I had one. ‘Hen’s party’ just conjures up terrible images of stretch Hummers, sparkly pink veils, sambuca shots and bad strippers. I love that ladies are now hosting a High Tea for Bridal Showers and Kitchen Teas, it is such an elegant way to celebrate.

Your favourite hostess gift to give?
French Champagne.

What’s the best gift you have ever received?
My antique emerald and diamond engagement ring from a small antique store in Paris. It makes me smile every time I look at it.

Three words that describe you best.
Champagne and red lipstick.

A Vintage Beach Themed Setting

2011-09-06T20:21:00.000+10:00

We are loving Juli from One Sweet Girl's take on a much loved wedding day theme. Beach Weddings are a popular choice for Australian couples, and we love this romantic vintage style table setting that doesn't have a frangipani or sea shell in sight!

"Most of us that live on the ‘continental fringe’ {so to speak} are within reasonable driving distance of the beach, and in Australia we are certainly blessed with some amazing beaches, yet beach weddings constantly seem to follow the same path – frangipanis, sand, shells and succulents, with pink, yellow and white being the overwhelming colour scheme of choice. Or we swing to the opposite extreme and feature nautical imagery with lighthouses and rope, and confine ourselves to a navy, yellow/red and white scheme... it’s time for a change!

For this table I followed natures palette of sand and cream, and incorporated only a tiny nod to the setting – pearls and rope on the cake, and a little deep ink blue in the marshmallows and the invite. Keeping the textures neutral allowed the stunning setting of Sorrento to shine through. The inspiration was definitely romantic, vintage, with a Q.Victorian-era hint in the overall look.

The table featured the wedding cake, peanut butter choc chip cookies, chocolate whoopee pies, rosewater marshmallows, chocolate meringues and chocolate brownies – and were presented on vintage pressed and cut glass vessels. The table was covered in unbleached hessian to keep the natural theme going.

Flowers for the table and the bouquet were created by Virginia of The Bouquets of Ascha Jolie, and featured taupe Honeymoon Roses as their main feature, again keeping to that neutral colour palette. A touch of blue was again brought in with Virginia’s inspired use of Sea Holly, and rounded everything out with Dodda vine, reeds, spider ivy and Magnolia leaves. The bouquet featured more Honeymoon roses, blue Privet berries, Blushing Bride and Hellebores, and the stem was wrapped in linen grosgrain to again enhance the natural theme.

The invitation was created for me by Nomie Boutique Stationery, and was based on a Victorian-era perfume label, which was toned deep ink blue to suggest a more vintage, Victorian-era elegance, was printed on a heavy-weight textured cotton card stock, and features a cut edge for a point of difference."

Thank you again Juli for sharing another of your beautiful creations from One Sweet Girl with us.

Getting to Know... Chelsea Parsons Photography

2011-08-31T09:00:00.003+10:00

Chelsea Parsons Photography | Hobart, TAS | Website | Blog

What’s your favourite part of your job?
The time with JUST the couple is my ultimate favourite part of the day. I love being able to capture that connection between them, makes me all happy inside.

What are you reading at the moment?
A stack of old Frankie magazines!

What are you lusting after at the moment?
A holiday to Italy with no kids!

Top three songs on your play list?
“Heart Translation” by Art of Fighting,
“Such Great Heights” by Iron and Wine,
“Moon Pulls” by Mum

What is your favourite moment during a wedding?
Time frame wise… I do love the vows and I mostly always get a tear… But I love when the light hits someone in the perfect spot and I jump up and down inside cause I know it going to be a goodun!

Who inspires you?
Jonas Peterson, Clayton Austin, Red Leaf Studio and so many more amazing people…

Favourite Cocktail?
I don’t really drink them, but I do like green smoothies!

What does it take to impress you?
A night out where I don’t have to organise anything!

What is the best piece of advice you were ever given?
Love what you love…

Favourite way to spend a Sunday?
Sleeping in, going to a park or the beach with my husband and 4 girls and the dog.

Black Tie or Casual?
Kinda inbetween… dress and boots

Your suggestion for a new name for ‘Hens party’
… erk, I don’t know! They get up to some crazy stuff!

Your favourite hostess gift to give?
Candles… I love to get and to give…

What’s the best gift you have ever received?
Recently…. My best friend just moved to London and gave me the yummiest old green velvet jacket. I treasure it…

Three words that describe you best.
Arty. Runner. Mumma.

Thanks so much for sharing with us Chelsea! It's so wonderful to get to know you a little better!

One more sleep!

2011-08-30T19:51:00.000+10:00

Just a little reminder we will be drawing the lucky winner of our $6000 Intrepid Travel honeymoon tomorrow afternoon. How exciting is that!!!!

You still have time to be in the draw, all you have to do is become a subscriber of Portobello Bride and Intrepid Travel. Simply subscribe to Portobello Bride, and you will be automatically subscribed to Intrepid Travel as well. Your name will then be in the draw to win a holiday to the value of $6000.

We cannot wait to announce the lucky duck who will get to choose a holiday to any one of the exotic destinations offered by Intrepid Travel up to $6000.

Our pick would have to be the Pairs to Rome Comfort trip, soaking up the romantic ambience of Paris, sampling world-famous Burgundy wines, exploring the French Riviera, living it up in Monaco, admire stunning coastal views along the Cinque Terre, explore the museums and galleries of Florence whilst delving into the history of Rome.

Getting To Know… SugarLove Weddings & White Designs

2011-08-24T09:00:00.003+10:00

SugarLove Pictures and White Designs | Woollahra, Sydney, NSW | SugarLove Website | White Designs Website | Blog | Twitter | Facebook

What’s your favourite part of your job?
Working in our gorgeous showroom with a great team and hearing our clients say they have always dreamed of hiring us to cover their day. And of course giving them incredible memories after the wedding day to last forever – nothing beats that feeling after all the planning and hard work has been done to realise that you were the 2nd most important decision they made (after choosing each other of course!)

What are you reading at the moment?
I have about 5 books on the boil usually. At the moment lets see on the bedside there is; Tender is the Night (F Scott Fitzgerald), The Lost Memoirs of Jane Austen & Buddhism for Mothers. Not far away is “An Affair with a House” and most of the current issues of Real Living, Inside out, Belle and Highlife. I am not a big fashion magazine fan! You tend to find mountains of interior design books or “how to” parenting guides around my desk & bookshelf on most days along with a big inspiration folder on our new renovation project.

What are you lusting after at the moment?
Counting down the weeks until our beautiful tropical getaway for my 10year wedding anniversary, lots of furniture and fixtures for our new tree change escape, silver caviar ring by Andrea Corson and more time to snuggle up with our little boys and read some good stories.

Top three songs on your play list?
Piano Sonata 11 (Mozart),
If I Ever Feel Better (Phoenix) and
Twinkle Twinkle (my 4year has hijacked my iphone favourites list)

What is your favourite moment during a wedding?
The I-Do kiss and the moments we capture when a couple are not aware of the camera.

Who inspires you?
My darling children and my husband (Bradley Patrick) who inspires me more than anyone to make both of our dreams come true each day. (Samples of his work appear on SugarLove Weddings & his newly updated commercial site will launch in Winter 2011)

I also love reading daily posts by A Cup Of Jo, Vicki Archer Anna Spiro And my daily wedding fix comprises Once Wed, Style Me Pretty and Polka Dot Bride

Favourite Cocktail?
Old fashioned girl – Baileys & Milk

What does it take to impress you?
A lot – passion, dedication, positivity, persistence, a great smile, confidence and great style.

What is the best piece of advice you were ever given?
It is nice to be important but it is more important to be nice.

Favourite way to spend a Sunday?
Sleeping in (won't happen for a few years yet), hubby’s home cooked brekkie with the boys, a relaxing read of the Sunday papers, something sweet, great coffee, laughter and trips around the coast with the family.

Black Tie or Casual?
Casual

Your suggestion for a new name for ‘Hens party"?
– Ladies Luxury Pamper Day

Your favourite hostess gift to give?
Nice bottle of red wine or some interesting in season blooms.

What’s the best gift you have ever received?
The gorgeous wooden sleigh bed and Brett Whitely lithograph from the room we stayed in on our wedding night from my husband of course!!

Three words that describe you best.
Focused, Passionate, Loving

Thanks so much for sharing with us today Leigh. It has been so lovely to get to know you a little more!

Getting to Know... A Lavish Affair

2011-08-17T09:00:00.001+10:00

A Lavish Affair | Melbourne VIC | Website | Twitter | Facebook

What’s your favourite part of your job?
Gosh! There are so many, I would have to say I get a buzz from the challenge... some couples come to us and have lost all hope that they can achieve their vision, although we get some tall orders we always come up with the answers and it’s a great feeling!

What are you reading at the moment?
I’m a big reader across all forums, ‘magwise’ I am currently scouring over the latest issue of Vogue, Harpers and Martha Stewart Weddings. ‘Bookwise’ I am reading the works of Dante and Marketing Sundae.

What are you lusting after at the moment? 
Am a confessed shopaholic, I love all things fashion - accessories, shoes, handbags...you name it! My most recent purchase a Badgley Mischka tote and adorable Louis Vuitton navy flats (yum!)

Top three songs on your play list?
I love a broad range of music, jazz, French classics, Top 40, R’n’B, 80’s, 60’s I couldn’t choose just three songs!!!!

What is your favourite moment during a wedding?
Again so many, my favourite would have to be the moment the groom lays eyes on his bride as she presents and makes her walk down the aisle. It has me smiling from ear to ear.

Who inspires you?
My mum, she was always a happy, positive person, a real go-getter! She passed a few years ago at the young age of 47 with breast cancer. I strive to succeed in all I do as I know she would be proud and I would be fulfilling some of her dreams that she had for me.

Favourite Cocktail?
Can you have just one? Mojito....

What does it take to impress you?
If you are genuine, humble and have integrity, I am sold!

What is the best piece of advice you were ever given?
Be yourself, do the right thing by others and trust your gut instinct!

Favourite way to spend a Sunday?
Blanket, couch, hubby, black and white movie marathon = Bliss!

Black Tie or Casual?
Black Tie, it has to be elegantly Lavish!

Your favourite hostess gift to give?
Along with a swish bottle of wine or bubbly I love Dinner Conversation Starters, Kikki K have a cute little box with conversation cards to share over dinner, you could be creative and make your own!

What’s the best gift you have ever received?
A cake made with love for my birthday, these days it becomes so easy to buy a cake but I think it is much nicer to have one made from love!

Three words that describe you best.
Patient, Generous and Resourceful! I’m a great problem solver!

It was a pleasure to get to know you better today Marisa! Thanks so much!

Getting to Know... The White Orchid Floral Design

2011-08-10T09:00:00.001+10:00

The White Orchid Floral Design | Adelaide SA | Website | Facebook

What’s your favourite part of your job?
I love creating the wedding flowers for the bride and seeing her reaction when I personally deliver them on her wedding day, it gives me goose bumps every time!

What are you reading at the moment?
All the new wedding flower magazines that are hitting the stands for Spring/Summer, love seeing the new trends coming through.

What are you lusting after at the moment?
The change in season really inspires me so at the moment I am lusting over beautiful flowers in Spring tones, and starting to see a sneak peak at the flower markets. Yum!

Top three songs on your play list?
Lisa Mitchell “Clean White Love”, Angus & Julia Stone “Big Jet Plane”, Jack Johnson “Banana Pancakes.”

What is your favourite moment during a wedding?
The exchanging of the vows, especially if they are personally written, they can be so beautiful.

Who inspires you?
In 2010 I travelled to New York to take part in a master class on Advanced Wiring Techniques for weddings. I studied at the Flower School New York, one on one alongside Master Florist Felipe Sastre and found this experience not only improved my skills but gave me new inspiration for wedding flower design.

Favourite Cocktail?
Cosmopolitan

What does it take to impress you?
Anyone who has followed their passion and created a successful business and living from it.

What is the best piece of advice you were ever given?
To follow my dreams and find passion in life and I feel I have achieved that with my floral work.

Favourite way to spend a Sunday?
After usually finishing a wedding the day before, having a sleep in! Followed by late brunch of banana pancakes and reading the paper, heaven!

Black Tie or Casual?
Both! Whichever is fitting for the occasion.

Your suggestion for a new name for ‘Hens party’.
I have heard a new party is emerging called “The Sten” combining the Stag and Hens party, though I’m not sure how that would work?

Your favourite hostess gift to give?
Flowers of course!

What’s the best gift you have ever received?
A Tiffany silver cuff from my husband for my 30th Birthday when we were in NYC last year, I love it!

Three words that describe you best.
Creative, perfectionist, passionate.

Kyla thanks so much for sharing about yourself with us today! It was so great to get to know you a little better!

Portobello Bride Featured Wedding: Katie & Bret by Michelle Fiona Photography

2011-08-09T12:33:00.000+10:00

The pretty floral details from today's beautiful wedding photographed by Michelle Fiona Photography make this wedding extra special in our eyes. Pretty pastel florals were the stand out feature of Katie and Bret's Sydney wedding, which were designed by the very talented Mandy Voulgaropoulos from Opulent Garden.

Katie's wedding dress is by Rose & Ruby, oh how we miss them.

As you know I love a bunch of littlie's in a bridal party, Katie's flower girls are the perfect addition to such a pretty wedding.

The perfect mix of floral's for Katie's bouquet.

The bridesmaids gowns were also by Rose & Ruby.

Mandy decorated the cake table with spanish moss and votive candles.

LOVE the details for the cupcake display.

photography by Michelle Fiona Photography

Thank you Mandy for sharing images from Katie & Bret's wedding with us.

Katie & Bret's Wedding Team:

CEREMONY SITE: Observatory Hill, The Rocks, Sydney.

RECEPTION SITE: Richmond Villa, The Rocks, Sydney.

PHOTOGRAPHY: Michelle Fiona Photography

WEDDING DRESS and BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Rose and Ruby, Sydney

SHOES: Mollini

HAIR: Hair By Jorge Alfaro, Sydney

FLOWERS: Opulent Garden, Sydney

CATERING: Miss Chu, Sydney

BAR: Wats on Tap, Sydney

Getting to Know... Erin King Photographer

2011-08-03T16:59:00.000+10:00

Erin King Photographer | Brunswick, Melbourne, VIC | Website | Blog | Twitter | Facebook

What’s your favourite part of your job?
Meeting new people and getting to hear and share their stories. I love being able to be myself and have creative freedom.

What are you reading at the moment?
I prefer to read blogs and magazines and keep in touch with what people are up to and get real life inspiration: http://greenweddingshoes.com/, http://www.jasminestarblog.com/

What are you lusting after at the moment?
Nancybird Handbags. I didn’t realise I had a handbag obsession until I found these! As well as more travel.

Top three songs on your play list?
It’s usually pop or rock, but when I’m not listening to Muse, I like to call these my power pop songs (great to work out to) includes the likes of Lady Gaga, and dare I say it…Flo-rider etc…I’m a real mixed bag when it come to music!

What is your favourite moment during a wedding?
When the groom gets overcome with emotion and can’t hold back the tears.

Who inspires you?
Yervant, Jasmine Star, and always local photographers and business people I know, respect and admire.

Favourite Cocktail?
I had a Japanese plum wine one, which was divine! Can’t remember the name unfortunately.

What does it take to impress you?
Anyone who can make me laugh has my full attention.

What is the best piece of advice you were ever given?
Trust and believe in yourself, don’t become victim to your fears.

Favourite way to spend a Sunday?
Sleep in then a lazy Sunday brunch with my partner followed by a relaxed outing with our little baby girl (aka Peanut the Chihuahua Bichon Cross)

Black Tie or Casual?
Casual, it’s not often you won’t find me wearing a pair of jeans and Chuck Taylors.

Your favourite hostess gift to give?
Something personal and fun

Three words that describe you best.
Bubbly, fun, always up for a laugh

Thanks so much for sharing with us today Erin! It was wonderful to get to know more about you!

Ed Dixon Food Design launch new website- and we LOVE it!

2011-07-29T16:01:00.001+10:00

Our favourite foodies, Ed Dixon Food Design have launched a brand spanking new website eddixonfooddesign.com, and we LOVE it!

My favourite feature, apart from all the yummy images, is the simple to use 'Order Online' service provided by EDFD. Now there is no excuse not to hold that cocktail party with the girls, or book those cooking classes you have always promised yourself.

Congratulations Ed and team on the fabulous new website which highlights your gorgeous, vibrant fare and natural talent of incorporating design with food so perfectly.

Getting to Know... Dizzy Wizzy Design

2011-07-27T09:00:00.002+10:00

Dizzy Wizzy Design | Website | Blog | Facebook

What’s your favourite part of your job?
I love creating unique invitations that tell a story.

What are you reading at the moment?
Australian Style by Melissa Penfold and Jenny Tabakoff and bunch of interior magazines including Inside Out, Home Beautiful and Real Living

What are you lusting after at the moment?
We are building a new home so anything from www.carinasherlock.com.au.

Top three songs on your play list?
Dream about Changing, Sally Seltmann
Big Jet Plane, Angus and Julia Stone
Bloodbuzz Ohio, The National

What is your favourite moment during a wedding?
When the bride and groom see each other for the first time.

Who inspires you?
Oh that is a tough one – there are too many people to list. I’m really inspired stylist Shauna Faust, interior designers, Sibella Court and Shannon Fricke, illustrators Katie Kirk and Jessica Hische. Goodness, I haven’t even got past the designers.

Favourite Cocktail?
Moscow Mule

What does it take to impress you?
People who give up their free time to volunteer.

What is the best piece of advice you were ever given?
‘ If you fail to prepare be prepared to fail’

Favourite way to spend a Sunday?
Catching a few little waves with loved ones.

Black Tie or Casual?
Casual, for sure. I love the idea of dressing up but feel more like me in casual clothing.

Your suggestion for a new name for ‘Hens party’
I can’t think of anything that wouldn’t be found offensive on some level.

Your favourite hostess gift to give?
Flowers. Closely followed by good wine or chocolate.

What’s the best gift you have ever received?
A thoughtful friend and an accomplished artist gave us a pastel drawing of our wedding location.

Three words that describe you best.
Casual, candid and playful.

Thanks so much for sharing with us today Nat! It has been great to get to know more about you!

Flower crush on Cecilia Fox

2011-07-25T15:02:00.000+10:00

On the odd occasion I have been known to have a bit of a girl crush on the likes of Zooey Deschanel, and lately Ms Gwyneth (Goop) Paltrow, but this crush isn't of the celebrity type, its more of an admiration for the unique style and creativity of Melbourne Floral designers, Cecilia Fox.

We were lucky enough to have Melanie from Cecilia Fox arrange our floral displays for Melbourne's Portobello Bride Market. A standout of the event, in beautiful hues of blues, greens and ivory in vintage esky's of all things!

If you haven't seen or heard of Cecilia Fox, take a moment to visit their website and if your planning a wedding in Melbourne and haven't booked a florist yet, make a time to meet Mel, you'll have a crush too once you see her work!

all images from Cecilia Fox

Getting to Know... Wedding List Co.

2011-07-20T09:33:00.000+10:00

Wedding List Co | Website | Blog | Facebook

What’s your favourite part of your job?
Being surrounded by so many beautiful gifts and homewares every day. I come to work and get to sit on a Philippe Starck Ghost Chair, work off a beautiful Coco Republic desk and gaze at walls full of Missoni Home, Vera Wang for Wedgwood, iittala, David Edmonds and Jasper Conran to name just a few! Plus I get to meet so many gorgeous couples – the wedding excitement is contagious!

What are you reading at the moment?
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

What are you lusting after at the moment?
Where to start! We have just launched the new Missoni Home dinnerware collection – it’s divine! Ortigia scented candles and body range. Everything from Have you Met Miss Jones…..and the Matthew Williamson fringed snakeskin sequined shoulder bag!

Top three songs on your play list?
Lullaby – The Cure
Raspberry Beret – Prince
She Sells Sanctuary – The Cult

What is your favourite moment during a wedding?
The moment when a groom turns and sees the bride walking down the aisle..… it brings me to tears every time.

Who inspires you?
My Mum!
Karl Lagerfeld – my favourite fashion icon
Natalie Massenet – founder of Net-a-Porter
Phoebe Philo - she’s transformed Celine
Garance Dore - www.garancedore.fr
The Selby - http://www.theselby.com/

Favourite Cocktail?
Lychee Martini

What does it take to impress you?
Both personally and professionally – someone who’s passionate about what they do and who uses their initiative. I’m of the belief that a misguided attempt at something where you give 100% is better than no attempt at all.

What is the best piece of advice you were ever given?
You never know until you try – so many good ideas never see the light of day because people are too scared to try (I should actually take this advice myself!)

Favourite way to spend a Sunday?
With family and friends. Sunday is all about spending time with the ones you love. I’m also a market obsessive so I’m never happier than when I’m rustling through vintage treasures at Bondi Market followed by a swim at the beach in Summer.

Black Tie or Casual?
Black tie every time – I love to dress up.

Your suggestion for a new name for ‘Hen's Party’
Anyone who knows me well will know that I have a dislike of the traditional “Hen's Party”. I’m all for a gorgeous long lazy lunch and afternoon cocktails with the girls so I guess “Sunshine & Champagne”!!

Your favourite hostess gift to give?
A Have You Met Miss Jones mini bird bowl and a great bottle of Champagne.

What’s the best gift you have ever received?
I was recently given an old fashioned Scwhinn bike – I’m obsessed! I haven’t actually made it out the door yet but I have visions of myself coasting along looking uber chic Parisian style (whilst wearing a helmet!)

Three words that describe you best.
Excitable, inquisitive and impatient

Thanks so much to Alicia, Wedding List Co.'s National Marketing Director for letting us get to know her a little better today!

Getting to Know... White Room Events

2011-07-13T22:28:00.000+10:00

White Room Events | Adelaide SA | Website | Blog | Twitter | Facebook

What’s your favourite part of your job?
Getting to know the brides, grooms and their families, and being able to use my creativity while making memories for them on one of the most important days in people lives, I love what I do!

What are you reading at the moment?
Not Dead & Not for Sale, A Memoir – by Scott Weiland lead singer of the Stone Temple Pilots, if I’m not reading this or mags, you’ll find me reading Hairy Maclary

What are you lusting after at the moment?
I am about to start living life as a farm gal, so I am coveting after some baby goats.

Top three songs on your play list?
I love all music, all of it. Top 3 too hard to choose.. But these are in my top 10 :)
Leonard Cohen – Suzanne
The Doors – Love Street
Led Zeppelin - Misty Mountain Hop

What is your favourite moment during a wedding?
If I’m lucky enough to be with the bride as she is about to walk down the aisle, my favourite moment is just before she starts her walk, there is something so sacred about it.

Who inspires you?
I am inspired by kindness and selflessness in people, in ‘real life’ my beautiful friends, I'm in constant awe of my husband and children. Creatively my daily motivators are The Flash Dance and Joy Thigpen and as a Mother Amanda Soule and Kelly Hampton I could go on and on, I have a major list of daily reads from all sorts of different people.

Favourite Cocktail?
I'm a Wild Turkey drinker, love that American Honey. However, if I had to pick a cocktail it would be something involving fresh mint.

What does it take to impress you?
Work ethic, genuineness, people who don’t try to hard and I love a rebel… especially of the wedding industry variety.

What is the best piece of advice you were ever given?
Live in the Sunshine!
I’m a huge believer in surrounding myself with positive people and energy. It’s a fool proof way to happiness and contentment.

Favourite way to spend a Sunday?
Breakfast with my husband and 3 boys, a trip to the newsagency for some reading material, a drive into the Adelaide Hills, a nice long lunch and home cooked dinner in front of the telly.

Black Tie or Casual?
I like both, I’m more a frock girl, I don’t even own a pair of pants apart from jeans.

Your suggestion for a new name for ‘Hens party’
No idea, can we just do away with ‘hens party’s’ all together, no good comes from people drinking through willy straws.

Your favourite hostess gift to give?
Plants. I gave curry plants for a curry night, was a hit!

What’s the best gift you have ever received?
I have no idea what the best gift would be, I live a very blessed life but I love handmade gifts, paintings and drawings from my children warm my soul.

Three words that describe you best.
Authentic, Devoted, Blessed, Earthy, Mama (that wasn’t three was it)

Thanks so much for allow us to get to know you a little better today Emily!

Getting to Know... Letter Bird Lane

2011-07-06T09:00:00.004+10:00

Portobello Bride Directory Member: Stationery
Letter Bird Lane | Leura, Blue Mountains, NSW | Website

What’s your favourite part of your job?
Loving what I do. Being creative and having happy customers!

What are you reading at the moment?
The Outsider – Albert Camus

What are you lusting after at the moment?
A trip to NY

Top three songs on your play list?
So hard to pick only three!
Half Light II {No Celebration}- Arcade Fire;
You’re Going Back – The Tallest Man On Earth;
Truth – Alexander Ebert

What is your favourite moment during a wedding?
When the bride and groom kiss! Who doesn’t get a little tear in their eye!?

Who inspires you?
Amanda Blake Soule. A mother to {almost} 5 kids and yet she manages to find time to be so creative, write books, do amazing things with her children and post lovely photos to her blog.

Favourite Cocktail?
Vodka, cranberry and grapefruit cocktail

What does it take to impress you?
Kindness, determination, humour and quick wit.

What is the best piece of advice you were ever given?
Always be positive. Life has so much to offer.

Favourite way to spend a Sunday?
A lazy morning with my little family, seeing friends, and a walk if the weather is nice.

Black Tie or Casual?
Somewhere in the middle

Your suggestion for a new name for ‘Hens party’?
A Frivolous Soiree

Your favourite hostess gift to give?
A really beautiful book or a framed print.

What’s the best gift you have ever received?
My two sons and my engagement ring!

Three words that describe you best.
Dedicated, thoughtful and happy.

Thanks so much for sharing with us Eliza. It has been lovely to get to know you better!

Moodboard Competition Amended

2011-07-04T11:32:00.000+10:00

Despite the postponing of the Sydney Portobello Bride Market until 2012 we are still holding our Spring/Summer French Conservatory Garden Wedding Moodboard Competition. Please read below for the amended details.

[image credits Top Row: My Sweet and Saucy | via Kristy Lee Interiors | via Pinterest original source unknown]

[Second Row: Vintageous | Astrid Mueller | via Pinterest original source unknown | Max Wanger via 100 Layer Cake]

[Third Row: Jose Villa via Style Me Pretty | via Tom Green Piano original source unknown]

[Fourth Row: J. Crew | via Pinterest original source unknown | Martha Stewart | Ivy & Aster]

[Bottom Row: Anthropologie | Mike and Kristy's Wedding | via Pinterest original source unknown]

We are asking you to create a Moodboard for a Spring/Summer French Conservatory Garden Wedding. Fill it with images of dresses, colours, themes, flowers, decorations and more that will create a gorgeous and unique mood and starting point for a wedding. The above example will give you an idea of what we are looking for. You can use images from our Pinterest Board and/or add other gorgeous images you find. This can be done digitally [like above] or you can make a tactile version and then take a photo of it. Please make sure you credit all images to the copyright owners/original source as shown above [URLS would be wonderful too]

The winning moodboard, as chosen by the Portobello Bride team, will be the inspiration for a styled photoshoot that will be featured on the Portobello Bride Website and Blog! The photoshoot will feature items and products from the Portobello Bride Directory Members and will be full of unique ideas and clever tricks from which Brides can draw their own inspiration. This competition is open to anyone; brides-to-be and wedding professionals alike - worldwide. Imagine having your ideas featured in front of leading vendors and professionals in the wedding industry!

We can't wait to see what you come up with!!

To Enter:
Create your moodboard and then send it as a digital file, or a photo via email to amanda@portobellobride.com.au by 5pm July 31, 2011. [AEST]

Prize:
The creator of the winning moodboard, as chosen by the Portobello Bride team, will win the amazing opportunity to have their inspiration board brought to life by the Portobello Bride team, in a styled photoshoot. The winning moodboard will also be featured on the Portobello Bride Blog along with images of the final, professionally styled shoot that it inspired.

The Draw:
The winner will be chosen by Kim Billing and the Portobello Bride Team and announced on the Portobello Bride Blog on Monday August 1, 2011.

Conditions:
- by submitting your moodboard you agree to Portobello Bride using it as inspiration for a styled photoshoot and display it on the Portobello Bride Blog and any related applications.
- all images must be credited to their copyright owners and corresponding URLs.
- the decision of the winning moodboard by Kim Billing is final and discussion about the decision will not be entered into.

Portobello Bride Featured Wedding: Jess & Bren by Jonas Peterson

2011-07-01T09:00:00.002+10:00

Photographer and Portobello Bride favourite Jonas Peterson is, in this humble Editor's opinion, a master when it comes to photographic composition. You can't help but see his brilliance when looking at the photos he captured at the wedding of Jess and Bren in Sydney. These photos are not just like any run-of-the-mill wedding snaps. They are works of art and perfectly capture the unique spirit of Jess and Bren's big day!

Loving the stationery suite the couple chose for their wedding day.

Jess' stunning 20's inspired wedding dress.

Fun and simple decorations.

This moment is sure to bring a smile to any face - so precious!

For those who aren't sure about the traditional wedding cake, why not consider arranging cheese to look like a cake like Jess and Bren have done and serve with crackers and relish to finish off the meal!?

Love the composition on this one. It's almost as if the empty space around the couple is in a heart shape!

Congratulations to Jess and Bren. May your life together be filled with smiles and joy just as your wedding day was!

A big thank you to Jonas for allowing us to share his stunning images!

Sydney Postponed

2011-06-30T16:19:00.000+10:00

[photo by Karin A~]

We cannot believe we are saying this, and it is with our deepest apologies but we are postponing Sydney's market to 2012 after all.

Due to unforeseen circumstances we have decided to postpone the market; as we will be unable to produce the event to the highest standard we expect and you deserve this August. We look forward to announcing our definite dates and plans for Sydney shortly.

All Sydney ticket holders will be refunded in full, and all stall holder applications have been contacted personally by email.

Since we received so many beautiful mood boards already for the style workshop we were running at the market, we will still be choosing a winning design and our favourite Sydney members will put together an inspiring photo shoot based on the winning moodboard.

We apologise for any inconvenience this may have caused you, it was never out intention. All we wish to do is bring to you the most beautiful, inspiring, productive wedding event imaginable, and we will do so in 2012.

Getting to Know... Smash Photography

2011-06-29T09:00:00.004+10:00

Portobello Bride Member: Photography
Smash Photography | Elsternwick VIC | Website | Blog | Facebook

What’s your favourite part of your job?
Bren: Every wedding is unique. We never do the same thing twice.
Rom: When something unplanned, goes right.
We recently shot a wedding where every part was scripted and arranged by the bride, we had a shot list that included which photograph to take under which tree at an exact time. It was all outdoors and the heavens opened up and all the plans went to pieces. Everyone expected the bride to be devastated but instead, she shrugged her shoulders and laughed the whole day, the photographs were absolutely priceless and so were their memories.

What are you reading at the moment?
Rom: Life - by Keith Richards
Bren: You've got that book? I was going to buy it. Can I get it from you when you're done?
Rom: Yeah, everybody thought he'd forget everything during his hey day, but, he remembered it all.

What are you lusting after at the moment?
Bren: You usually lust after the thing you can't have, and if you were to get it, the initial desire fades quickly. That's the difference between lust and love, isn't it?

Top three songs on your play list?
Rom: We tend to listen to albums rather than liking individual songs that flood the market and this list changes daily!
1. Radiohead - The King of Limbs
2. The Yeah Yeah Yeahs - Its a Blitz
3. PJ Harvey - Let England Shake

What is your favourite moment during a wedding?
Rom: When the Bride's mother winks at me
Bren: When the groom winks at me!

Who inspires you?
Bren: Anyone who can succeed over impossible odds.
Rom: People who do whatever they do and do it well. Whether you are a rocket scientist, stamp collector or a garbage collector. "That's the 'best' damn garbage collection I've ever done! Look at this street, it's immaculate".

Favourite Cocktail?
Rom: Grand Gold Margherita!
Bren: Yeah, the way they make them at Amigo's in Carlton.

What does it take to impress you?
Rom: A beautiful photograph
Bren: An impressive person who makes no effort to be impressive.

What is the best piece of advice you were ever given?
Bren: Don't give up your day job. My day job was photography.
Rom: Some mistakes are too much fun to only make once!

Favourite way to spend a Sunday?
Rom: Running in slow motion on a beach, especially when it's raining...cause no-one can see you cry.
Bren: Breakfast at Loco's in Elsternwick, and on a summer evening, a Grand Gold Margherita followed by a walk along the beach to see who's playing at the Espy .

Black Tie or Casual?
Bren: I'm never invited to events that require a black tie.
Rom: When we were photographing a wedding in India, we were asked to wear a traditional Kurtha. Awkward to photograph in but we did look pretty sharp!

Your suggestion for a new name for ‘Hens party’
Bren: My wife tells me a hens party is when they all sit around drinking herbal tea for the night.
Rom: Yes but when she told you that, all her friends started giggling and winking at each other.
Bren: And she always comes home from those things with her clothes all disheveled and a really bad headache.
Rom: Sounds like she comes home drunk.
Bren: From herbal tea? Yeah, right!

Your favourite hostess gift to give?
Bren: I don't even know what that means.
Rom: They mean like on a plane, dont you give your air hostess a gift. I do.
Bren: I guess that's why I never get bumped up to first class.

What’s the best gift you have ever received?
Bren: The gift of humility. And good looks.
Rom: The 10 dollar wedding ring my wife bought me on our way to get married in Las Vegas.

Three words that describe you best.
Bren: Rom and I would have the same answer on this I think:
Driven
Dedicated
Perfectionist
We're quite similar in many ways. We've known each other so long we often finish each others...
Rom: Sandwiches!

Thanks Bren and Rom for the entertaining look into your lives!
Smash Photography is a Member of the Portobello Bride Wedding Directory.

Two New Collections from Kristi Bonnici

2011-06-27T17:02:00.000+10:00

Portobello Bride Member Kristi Bonnici has recently released two new collections of stunning bridal accessories.

The first is a bridal collection is entitled "Moments of Trespass" and was inspired by thoughts of love, both good and bad, and depicts the endless recollecting for the lucky and the eternal lamenting of the broken-hearted.

The collection features a variety of pieces for many different types of brides such as combs, garlands, leather flowers, headbands, birdcage veils, veils and mantilla veils. Each piece made in the Kristi Bonnici Sydney studio, by hand with much love and consideration.

The second collection is called "Sugar and Spice" as was created to meet the demand for accessories for Bridesmaids, Mothers of the Bride and to wear to a day at the races. This collection is available in Blush and Black and some designs are also available in metallic tones.

Kristi's designs are just so gorgeous and beautifully handmade. You are sure to find just the right piece for your sense of style!

To view the full range visit the Kristi Bonnici website here.

[all images © Kristi Bonnici]

Portobello Bride Featured Wedding: Tienna & Jamie by Matthew Evans Photography

2011-06-24T09:00:00.002+10:00

The wedding of Tienna and Jamie is a gorgeous mix of casual, coastal airiness and minimal, chic elegance, which is perfect for its Queensland setting at Palm Cove. The whole event was planned in less than six months!

Tienna fell in love with her dress, but it wasn't even being produced until a couple of months before the wedding, so due to the tight time-frame she bought the sample size and had it altered to fit with just a few weeks to go before the wedding! She's one brave Bride!

Matthew from Matthew Evans Photography captured such gorgeous images from this special day.

Tienna's gorgeous dress, altered perfectly to her shape.

The bridesmaids look beautiful in their neutral toned dresses. Perfect for a hot Summer wedding in Queensland!

Tienna added a cream ribbon to her dress to personalise it. She knew from the start she wanted a bow around her waist!

Stunning photo!

Gorgeous tropical setting!

The whole wedding was held at the Sea Temple Resort. Ceremony on the terrace, canapes by the pool and the reception was held in the restaurant - this meant no travelling from location to location on the day!

Such a sweet photo!

Clean, elegant styling.

Tienna and Jamie said there were lots of tears of joy and laughter on the day - just as it should be!

Venue: Sea Temple, Palm Cove
Photographer: Matthew Evans Photography
Dress: Allure Couture from Hills in Hollywood (Townsville)
Suits: Roger David
Cake: made by Tienna’s mum!
Flowers: Artificial and put together by Tienna
Guitar: Cahill Kelly

Congratulations to Tienna and Jamie. May your lives together be filled with as much joy as your wedding day!

Thank you Matthew Evans Photography for allowing us to share your gorgeous images.

It's Beautiful Here Special Wedding Offer

2011-06-22T14:23:00.000+10:00

[click image for larger view]

Tonight is the longest night in the year and to celebrate Portobello Bride Directory Member It's Beautiful Here have a wonderful offer for all soon-to-be-wed couples looking to book a photographer in 2011. For all the details go to the It's Beautiful Here website or email them here. Get in quick to make sure you don't miss out!

Getting to Know... CL Weddings and Events

2011-06-22T09:00:00.001+10:00

Portobello Bride Directory Member: Wedding Coordinator
CL Weddings and Events | Noosa Heads QLD | Website | Blog | Facebook

What’s your favourite part of your job?
Hearing the love stories and personalities of our couples then using this to create a truly personal and intimate wedding day.

What are you reading at the moment?
I’d love to say that I’m engrossed in a wonderful novel but sadly in this industry there just isn’t time. My head is often buried in the latest wedding and home decorator magazines.

What are you lusting after at the moment?
Restored and re-loved furnishings to add colour and personality to a wedding style.

Top three songs on your play list?
Valerie – Amy Winehouse
If I Aint Got you – Alicia Keys
Jet Plane – Angus and Julia Stone

What is your favourite moment during a wedding?
All of it, from the rushed madness of set up to seeing the look on the groom's face when he first spies his bride, the first dance and the pack down at the end of the night.

Who inspires you?
Elizabeth Messina – for her always graceful photography.
My girlfriends, who always manage to juggle motherhood, extremely demanding careers, time for their friends and most of all a wonderful attitude towards life.

Favourite Cocktail?
Passionfruit Caiprioska

What does it take to impress you?
Attention to detail, 110% effort and simple things like good manners.

What is the best piece of advice you were ever given?
Take it step by step. You don’t always have to have everything you dream of all at once. Grow your business and don’t rush!

Favourite way to spend a Sunday?
With my family, in the sunshine, enjoying great food, music and wine.

Black Tie or Casual?
There is always a place for both!

Your suggestion for a new name for ‘Hens party’
Hats and Hens – a day filled with French champagne, English tarts and Millinery

Your favourite hostess gift to give?
Hand baked goods to have with tea when they arrive home from the event

What’s the best gift you have ever received?
The ongoing friendships I have with past clients.

Three words that describe you best.
Observant, thorough, nurturing

Thanks so much for sharing with us about yourself Carly. It was lovely to get to know you more!

Spring/Summer French Conservatory Garden Wedding Moodboard Competition

2011-06-21T17:54:00.001+10:00

[image credits Top Row: My Sweet and Saucy | via Kristy Lee Interiors | via Pinterest original source unknown]

[Second Row: Vintageous | Astrid Mueller | via Pinterest original source unknown | Max Wanger via 100 Layer Cake]

[Third Row: Jose Villa via Style Me Pretty | via Tom Green Piano original source unknown]

[Fourth Row: J. Crew | via Pinterest original source unknown | Martha Stewart | Ivy & Aster]

[Bottom Row: Anthropologie | Mike and Kristy's Wedding | via Pinterest original source unknown]

After such a great competition for our Melbourne Market in March we have decided to hold the Moodboard competition again. This time we are asking you to create a Moodboard for a Spring/Summer French Conservatory Garden Wedding. Fill it with images of dresses, colours, themes, flowers, decorations and more that will create a gorgeous and unique mood and starting point for a wedding. The above example will give you an idea of what we are looking for. You can use images from our Pinterest Board and/or add other gorgeous images you find. This can be done digitally [like above] or you can make a tactile version and then take a photo of it. Please make sure you credit all images to the copyright owners/original source as shown above [URLS would be wonderful too]

The winning moodboard, as chosen by the Portobello Bride team, will be the inspiration for a tablescape display that will be created as a center display at the Portobello Bride Spring/Summer Sydney market. The display will feature items and products from the Portobello Bride Market Stallholders and will be full of unique ideas and clever tricks from which visiting Brides can draw their own inspiration. This competition is open to anyone; brides-to be and wedding professionals alike - worldwide. Imagine having your ideas featured in front of leading vendors and professionals in the wedding industry!

We can't wait to see what you come up with!!

To Enter:
Create your moodboard and then send it as a digital file, or a photo via email to amanda@portobellobride.com.au by 5pm July 15, 2011. [AEST]

Prize:
The creator of the winning moodboard, as chosen by the Portobello Bride team, will win the amazing opportunity to have their inspiration board brought to life by the Portobello Bride team, in a central display at Portobello Bride Market at Byron Kennedy Hall, The Entertainment Quarter, Moore Park. The winning moodboard will also be featured on the Portobello Bride Blog along with images of the final, professionally styled display that it inspired.

4 Premium tickets to Portobello Bride Market will also be available to the winner should they be able to attend. This will allow the winner to see the finished display as inspired by their moodboard and visit with our amazing stallholders.

The Draw:
The winner will be chosen by Kim Billing and the Portobello Bride Team and announced on the Portobello Bride Blog on Friday July 15, 2011.

Conditions:
- by submitting your moodboard you agree to Portobello Bride using it as inspiration for a display at the Portobello Bride Spring/Summer Market, Byron Kennedy Hall, The Entertainment Quarter, Moore Park, August 13 & 14, 2011, the Portobello Bride Blog and any related applications.
- all images must be credited to their copyright owners and corresponding URLs.
- the decision of the winning moodboard by Kim Billing is final and discussion about the decision will not be entered into.
- the prize of 4 premium tickets valued at $15 each cannot be turned in for cash. This portion of the prize is a bonus and is only awarded should the winner be able to attend the event.

Fenton & Fenton's New Online Store

2011-06-20T09:49:00.000+10:00

Portobello Bride Directory Member Fenton & Fenton have launched a new online store. Now you can buy their range of unique homewares, decorator items and accessories from the comfort of your own home! Any item from the Fenton & Fenton range would make an amazing wedding gift, so why not sign up for their Gift Registry service?

Here are some of our favourite items:

[Bone Inlay Bedside Table]

[Sima Handbag]

[Industrial Lamp]

Head on over to the Fenton & Fenton online store to see the full range!

Portobello Bride Featured Wedding: Sian & Jarret by Janine Kaye Photography

2011-06-17T09:00:00.003+10:00

Portobello Bride Member Janine from Janine Kaye Photography sent through some gorgeous images she took of the amazing wedding of Sian and Jarret [aka Napper] and we just had to share them with you!

One of the things they told me that was important about their day was that it represented “them”… and boy did it ever. From the beautiful ceremony site at the scout camp, to the relaxed restaurant reception at Crooked River Winery... it was the essence of them. - Janine Kaye

Sian's ruffled and textured dress is truly amazing!

Stunning!

What a unique collection of flowers and foliage! Gorgeous!

Flowers: Always Flowers
Groom's Attire: Custom made
Cake: Balgownie Village Patisserie
Reception Venue: Crooked River Winery

We send out our congratulations to Sian and Jarret and wish them both the very best in their new lives together!

A big thank you also goes out to Janine Kaye Photography for sharing these gorgeous images!

Spring/Summer Portobello Bride Wedding Market Stallholder Applications Now Open!

2011-06-15T11:55:00.004+10:00

[Image by Kate Robinson]

Have you been wishing for something special to help set you apart from the rest?

Be part of the first wedding event of its kind in Sydney by becoming a stallholder at the Spring/Summer Portobello Bride Wedding Market!

Portobello Bride Wedding Market is a curated wedding show and marketplace featuring artists, designers and services that are independent, creative and passionate about the same style occasions as we are. Our first market was held in Melbourne at St Kilda Town Hall March 2011, with demand for markets to be held in all major capital cities in the future.

If you are thinking we are just another wedding expo or showcase, you are in for a treat, we are like no other wedding event held in Australia. Our markets are casual and charming events, with a festive fair-style atmosphere. We are passionate about featuring the pioneers of the a new fresh modern wedding industry which includes both up & comers and well established names, who all maintain a high standard of quality and expertise that fits with the Portobello brand.

We are so proud to have the support of the following brands for this event!

We hope to have you on board too!

Portobello Bride Wedding Market is Coming to Sydney!

2011-06-15T11:40:00.002+10:00

We are so excited to announce the details of the Spring/Summer Portobello Bride Wedding Market for Sydney!

[click image for larger version]

Tickets are now available online, so get in quick and secure yours now!

We are so proud to have the support of the following brands for this event!

We hope to see you there!!!

Getting to Know... Imbue Weddings

2011-06-15T11:22:00.000+10:00

Portobello Bride Member: Floral & Event Styling
Imbue Weddings | Brisbane QLD | Website | Blog | Facebook

What’s your favourite part of your job?
Flowers. I love the endless new combinations you can create with all the beautiful varieties there are.

What are you reading at the moment?
Jane Eyre... again!

What are you lusting after at the moment?
A digital SLR camera

Top three songs on your play list?
Brooke Taylor's “Sailing",
Angus and Julia Stone's “Yellow Brick Road”
and Ella Fitzgerald’s “At last”.

What is your favourite moment during a wedding?
Just after the ceremony when friends and family are congratulating the newlyweds because there is always lots of smiles and laughter.

Who inspires you?
JL designs, Holly Chapple, Lisa Vorce, Beth Helmstetter, and Rouba Alamein.

Favourite Cocktail?
Margarita

What does it take to impress you?
Honesty

What is the best piece of advice you were ever given?
Don’t let fear stop you from doing something amazing!

Favourite way to spend a Sunday?
At home pottering around the garden

Black Tie or Casual?
An elegant combination of both

Your suggestion for a new name for ‘Hens party’
If it isn’t broken don’t fix it, I like the term “hens party”!

Your favourite hostess gift to give?
Hamper of gourmet cheeses and savoury marmalades.

What’s the best gift you have ever received?
A hot air balloon ride.

Three words that describe you best.
Optimistic, loyal and creative.

Thanks for sharing with us today Kristy! It was lovely to learn more about you!

Imbue Weddings is a member of the Portobello Bride Boutique Wedding Guide.

Lily Allen makes a happy bride!

2011-06-13T18:57:00.000+10:00

We love Lily Allen at Portobello, it's not surprising she didn't sell the rights to her wedding day to a glossy. After all her and her partner Sam Cooper have been through, she knows there is more to life than being a celebrity. Their wedding day was a personal, heartfelt affair which the celebrated with 100 of their closest friends and family.

Here are just a few of our favourite images from their charming English wedding.

News that a baby is on the way makes for even more reason to celebrate for this lovely couple. We wish them all the happiness in the next chapter of their life together.

Portobello Bride Featured Wedding: Amy & Patrick by Caspix

2011-06-10T17:48:00.000+10:00

We love this wedding by Portobello Bride Member Caspix. Amy and Patrick created a celebration that was a little casual, a little rustic, but all elegant! Bride Amy arranged the flowers and created many other crafty personal touched for the special day which makes us love it all the more!

Waiting with anticipation!

She is just TOO cute!

The bridesmaids wore gorgeous pastel tone, flowy dresses

Love the composition on this shot!

... and this one!

Beautiful, personal touches at the reception included Family Wedding Photos, Jars of flowers, handmade tissue paper pom poms, and stamped cutlery!

Dress: Collette Dinnigan
Shoes: Jimmy Choo Silver Wedges
Ceremony: St Patrick’s Church, Berry NSW
Reception: Silos Estate, Berry NSW

Congratulations Amy and Patrick we all wish you the very best in your lives together!

Thanks to Casandra from Caspix for sharing her gorgeous images with us today!

Getting to Know... Gwendolynne

2011-06-08T09:00:00.009+10:00

Portobello Bride Member: Bridal Gowns
Gwendolynne | Fitzroy VIC | Website

What’s your favourite part of your job?
My favourite part of my job is when we work at creating new beading designs. Beading is such a huge component of my collections. I also love to do photo shoots.

What are you reading at the moment?
I am reading “Creativity” by Osho.

What are you lusting after at the moment?
I am lusting after going to a yoga retreat on an island someplace tropical. With massage every day, a good-looking pool boy fanning me with a palm leaf and feeding me pealed grapes whilst I lay in a hammock.

Top three songs on your play list?
Sigur Ross
Air
Spandau Ballet
I can’t name my favourite songs as I like all their work.

What is your favourite moment during a wedding?
When the groom sees the bride for the first time. This is so cute.

Who inspires you?
An inner child.

Favourite Cocktail?
Espresso Martini... they get me going!

What does it take to impress you?
A good sense of humour. And kindness.

What is the best piece of advice you were ever given?
Not to take everything personally.

Favourite way to spend a Sunday?
A stroll around the Camberwell Market and then wine in a cafe with friends.

Black Tie or Casual?
Both

Your suggestion for a new name for ‘Hens party’?
“Chicks on the run”

Your favourite hostess gift to give?
Diamonds

What’s the best gift you have ever received?
A ticket to Italy.

Three words that describe you best.
People have described me as “fairy-like”.
I have also been called “oldy-worldy” however I am much more casual than I seem.

Thanks so much for sharing with us today Gwendolynne. It has been lovely to get to know you better!
Gwendolynne is a member of the Portobello Bride Boutique Wedding Guide.

EmmyRose Winter Sale - 60% off!

2011-06-07T08:49:00.000+10:00

Portobello Bride Member EmmyRose is currently having a Winter Sale with 60% off everything [except wedding stationery]. This would be the perfect time to stock up on Thank You notes, gifts tags, twine and much more!

There are gorgeous packs of Thank You notes, perfect for newlyweds - which were $24 and are now just $12 for packs of 10.

All illustrations are done by designer Emily and printed on 100% recycled paper with accompanying recycled envelopes.

Head on over to the EmmyRose Store to take a look at all the wonderful savings!

Portobello Bride Featured Wedding: Mandy & Sammy by Jonas Peterson

2011-06-03T13:37:00.000+10:00

A unique couple calls for a unique wedding and Mandy and Sammy are one of those couples! This truly bohemian, outdoor-and-adventure-loving couple created an amazingly rustic wedding on a beach in Bali. The big day had beautiful earthy and tribal details to really set off the celebration in a personalised way. The incredible photographer and Portobello Bride member Jonas Peterson captured the occasion with amazing style.

Mandy writes a message to be put in a bottle and cast out to sea as part of the ceremony.

Mandy hand-making a traditional feathered headdress.

The couple head to the ceremony looking amazing in their casual and unique ensembles.

Mandy's dress and headdress are truly spectacular!

Gorgeous!

Sammy casts the bottle out into the unknown... such a great idea for a beach wedding!

The stunningly styled table complete with hanging lamps, leis of flowers and other rustic touches.

Traditional Balinese dancers light up the occasion with Sammy and Mandy joining in!

Windswept and gorgeous!

Congratulations Mandy and Sammy! We wish you both the very best in your lives together!

A big thank you to Jonas Peterson for allowing us to share his amazing images!

Getting to Know... Caspix

2011-06-01T15:58:00.000+10:00

Portobello Bride Member: Photographer
Caspix | Sydney NSW | Website | Blog | Twitter | Facebook

What’s your favourite part of your job?
The opportunity to create something extraordinary out of the ordinary every time I pick up the camera.

What are you reading at the moment?
 Emails! And more emails – although for fun I am reading old school Vogue magazines for some inspiration.

What are you lusting after at the moment? 
Old train station wall clocks and 1950s furniture.

Top three songs on your play list?
 Impossible to list as I am so fickle with my music… but I play music 24/7, can’t live without it.

What is your favourite moment during a wedding?
When the bride and groom have their first moments alone after getting married and no one from the bridal party is around – usually their portraits together.

Who inspires you?
My husband inspires me always – and I must say that Pinterest inspires the visual me at the moment.

Favourite Cocktail
 I am a wine girl.

What does it take to impress you? 
True originality and someone that is comfortably not following the pack, just being themselves.

What is the best piece of advice you were ever given?
You can’t love another, until you love yourself.

Favourite way to spend a Sunday?
Not editing at the computer - Just spending time with my tribe at home.

Black Tie or Casual?
Casual all the way.

Your suggestion for a new name for ‘Hens party’
hmm didn’t know they were looking for one?

Your favourite hostess gift to give?
A photograph from the night that we just had.

What’s the best gift you have ever received?
The gift of love from my husband – corny but totally true.

Three words that describe you best.
Erghh this is hard without sounding silly –first 3 things that pop up are independent, inquisitive and impulsive!

Thanks for sharing with us today Casandra!
Caspix is a Portobello Bride Boutique Wedding Guide Member.

Portobello Bride Sydney Is Back On

2011-06-01T11:40:00.002+10:00

I know I only announced a fortnight ago that we had to cancel Sydney's market for 2011. Well, we just couldn't give up on it. We received so many heartfelt emails and comments from wedding suppliers and brides-to-be who were really looking forward to Sydney's event that we just had to keep trying to find an alternative venue. We honestly thought we had covered all options when I made the announcement that it wasn't going to be for 2011, but it seems we hadn't.

Some may say it was serendipitous, whatever it was, it was meant to be, I am absolutely in love with our new venue.

I am excited to announce we will be holding our Sydney Portobello Bride Spring Summer wedding market at Byron Kennedy Hall. We couldn't be happier, it's the perfect space for our vision for the Portobello Bride Spring Summer market, we will launch the campaign next week. You are going to love it!

If you are interested in participating please email kim@portobellobride.com.au , applications open Tuesday 7th June 2011.

Portobello Bride

Spring Summer

The Byron Kennedy Hall

Moore Park, NSW

Sat 13 August 10am-5pm

Sun 14 August 10am-3pm

Getting to Know... Kristi Bonnici Bridal Accessories

2011-05-26T11:42:00.000+10:00

Portobello Bride Member: Veils and Headpieces, Shoes and Accessories
Kristi Bonnici Bridal Accessories | Redfern NSW | Website | Facebook |

What’s your favourite part of your job?
I would have to say the day we shoot the collection every each season. It is such a crazy and fabulous day, often starting very early with so much great energy buzzing around and anticipation about the final product.

I am a designer that absolutely loves to collaborate with others, so working with other talented creatives, from photographers, makeup artists, hair stylists and models to realise my vision for the season is just such a lovely treat after months of working away, often on your own.

What are you reading at the moment?
The latest offering by Isabel Allende, “Island Beneath the Sea”
She has been my favourite author of fiction since I was 18 and inspired a trip to South America when I was 19. I have read all her books.

What are you lusting after at the moment?
Some beautiful Italian ceramics for our home and some gorgeous new pieces for Winter from Aussie designers, Scanlan & Theodore, Camilla & Marc and Gorman… alas there are too many to mention them all!

Top three songs on your play list?
“Hanging on Too Long” by Duffy,
“Izzo” by Jay Z and
“Baby Carni Bird” by Camille.

What is your favourite moment during a wedding?
It would have to be when the bride has just arrived and is readying herself to walk down the aisle to her man. I love the interchange between her and her father and her bridesmaids, such intimate, precious moments that can never be repeated.

Who inspires you?
For me it’s not so much “who” but “what”.
I find inspiration from so many things, books, art, ceramics, illustration, photography, light, texture or travel. But the one element that never ceases to inspire me is nature.

Favourite Cocktail?
Much to the dismay of many of my dearest friends, I am not so much a cocktail drinker, I prefer a good old “vodka, dry and lime”. More “Old man” than “young lady” but I guess you can’t argue with your taste buds!

What does it take to impress you?
Consideration and thoughtfulness… whether it be in life or in design.

What is the best piece of advice you were ever given?
“It is as it is”... who would have thought five, 2 letter words could say so much!

Favourite way to spend a Sunday?
Getting to spend the day with my beautiful, workaholic husband and our two kooky cats, usually just pottering around, doing whatever we feel like at the moment. For me that usually involves lots of cups of tea, cake or chocolate and a nice long walk either by the sea or in the park.

Black Tie or Casual?
Definitely casual, but I do like to dress up when the moment calls for it!

Your suggestion for a new name for ‘Hens party’
Gosh, sorry, I really tried, but I have nothing.. Hen’s it will have to stay…

Your favourite hostess gift to give?
I really like to give gifts that people can enjoy every day in their home, that they probably wouldn’t buy for themselves like scented candles or flowers.

What’s the best gift you have ever received?
I have been lucky enough to receive so many thoughtful, beautiful gifts over the years, but I would have to say it would be a toss up between my two beautiful cats and my engagement ring. What the ring represented and the marriage it turned into and then our “furry” kids all bring lots of love into my life and created our funny little family.

Three words that describe you best.
Chatty, Earthy and a “stickler” for detail.

Thanks so much for sharing with us today Kristi!
Kristi Bonnici Bridal Accessories is a member of the Portobello Bride Boutique Wedding Guide.

Elissa & James: Engagement Session by Bailie Photography

2011-05-23T11:36:00.000+10:00

It's Monday morning and we thought we would share a gorgeous Engagement Session from Bailie Photography with you today. Elissa and James have a selection of photos that vary from soft and romantic, to an edgy Hipster look that we just love! Enjoy!

Portobello Bride Featured Wedding: Kiri & Mitchell by Janine Kaye Photography

2011-05-20T09:00:00.005+10:00

They say that it is good luck if it rains on your wedding day, and as the stunning wedding of Kiri and Mitchell shows it also creates an amazing atmosphere! These images by Janine Kaye Photography are so beautiful and so special, and the rain only adds to the gorgeous mood!

Loving the 1920s inspired head piece and gown!

Happy moments despite the rain!

Beautiful!

Great photo idea!

Superb!

The white on white with mixed textures is so beautiful!

Congratulations to Kiri and Mitchell! May your lives together be full of love and good things!

A big thank you to Janine from Janine Kaye Photography for sharing her beautiful images with us today!

Getting to Know... white+white

2011-05-18T09:00:00.006+10:00

Portobello Bride Member: Wedding Coordinator
white+white | Brisbane, QLD | Website | Blog | Twitter | Facebook

What’s your favourite part of your job?
Seeing the Bride and Groom’s faces as they enter the reception. After months of planning it is very rewarding to see the couple’s wedding vision and all our hard work come to fruition.

What are you reading at the moment?
A Woman in Berlin, Anonymous.

What are you lusting after at the moment?
Some more Foxton Danger Kaftans. So pretty and comfy too.

Top three songs on your play list?
Bang Bang Bang (Mark Ronson),
So Frenchy So Chic Album and
Crash into Me (Dave Mathews Band).

What is your favourite moment during a wedding?
Seeing the Bride arrive. She always has this amazing glow. Such a happy moment!

Who inspires you?
Portobello Bride of course! Antique stores, Vogue Living, The Wedding Style Guide and all the amazing wedding vendors I work with.

Favourite Cocktail?
Lychee Martini

What does it take to impress you?
High level of professionalism, passion, new and innovative ideas, respect and sophistication.

What is the best piece of advice you were ever given?
Follow your dreams!

Favourite way to spend a Sunday?
Morning ride followed by a yummy breakfast at South Bank then an afternoon nap.

Black Tie or Casual?
Hard question. I would have to say Black Tie. It is nice to get dressed up in a long frock from time to time.

Your suggestion for a new name for ‘Hens party’.
Ladies' Soiree.

Your favourite hostess gift to give?
A lovely bottle of perfume.

What’s the best gift you have ever received?
I received a beautiful bottle of perfume (my fave!) and a gorgeous photo frame from a past Bride. So unexpected and thoughtful.

Three words that describe you best.
Organised, Wedding-obsessed, Busy

Thanks so much for sharing with us today Danielle!
white+white is a member of the Portobello Bride Boutique Wedding Guide.

Sydney Boutique Wedding Market Update

2011-05-17T14:43:00.000+10:00

Image by Kate Robinson Photography

I have put this off as long as I could. I was hoping to have better news, but unfortunately I don't.

We have had to cancel this years Sydney Boutique Wedding Market due to Paddington Town Hall closing for renovations. We have searched for another venue, but they are either not available on our required dates, or not appropriate for the style event we will be producing.

Rest assured we are already planning next years markets for Sydeny and Melbourne, so please don't be too disheartened, 2012 will be here before we know it.

There will also be a Fashion Show in Sydney shortly, a photography Exhibition for Brisbane and events for Perth and Adelaide.

Again I am so sorry for all our members and brides-to-be, who have been waiting patiently for Sydney's event, I promise it will be worth the wait though.

Kindest,

The White Orchid Early Bride Promotion

2011-05-17T09:00:00.000+10:00

For more info visit The White Orchid website.

Beautiful and Unique Flowers by Blumin

2011-05-16T10:27:00.002+10:00

Have you every wondered what it must be like to plan a wedding which is to be held in a different country to that which you currently reside in? Well, this is the challenge that faced Canadian Rebecca as she planned her Melbourne wedding to Fiance Paul. Of course the Internet became an invaluable tool, and when it came to planning the flowers for her big day Rebecca found one of our favourites, Blumin in our Boutique Wedding Guide.

When Sandy rang me to tell me a Bride-to-Be in Canada found her through our website, I was thrilled. We love hearing from our members about weddings they are part of through being listed on Portobello, so it was very exciting for us at Portobello and the ladies at Blumin to hear from a couple overseas.

Sandy and the team's initial brief was: “We are hoping to achieve a rustic but classic style for our outdoor garden wedding and would like the flowers to reflect this. We would also like to keep to seasonal flowers grown locally wherever possible and noticed this is something you do!". The rest of the arrangements were handled over the internet and by phone. Then, in March the big day arrived. Here are some gorgeous photos by Njoy The Moment of the celebration.

“Echinacea flower heads” were used as they were always in bloom when Rebecca visited Melbourne from Canada. Raspberry coloured Dahlias and Blackberries were a key theme, and the use of old fashioned mason-type glass vases for the outdoor setting.

Rebecca and Paul were delighted with their flowers on the day. It might be daunting organising a wedding away from home, but the key is to find a suppier who understands the theme and styling you are after and to leave it in their capable hands! The Portobello Bride Boutique Wedding Guide is a great place to begin your search for a quality and unique suppliers if we do say so ourselves!

Thanks to Sandy from Blumin for sharing this great story with us and to Njoy The Moment for sharing the gorgeous images.

Portobello Bride is now on Pinterest

2011-05-11T13:25:00.000+10:00

You can now follow Portobello Bride on Pinterest!

For those of you who don't know, Pinterest is a website which allows you to grab images from your favourite websites and collect them together in virtual pin boards. You can re-pin your friend's images from their boards and follow all your favourite people [like Portobello Bride] to see what they are pinning!

Come and take a look at our pin boards and be inspired by all the amazing images we are collecting. You are sure to find something that inspires your special day!

Oh we must warn you though - Pinterest is HIGHLY addictive! Don't say you weren't warned!

Getting to Know... Sinikka Floral

2011-05-11T12:13:00.000+10:00

Portobello Bride Member: Flowers
Sinikka Floral Design | Website | Blog | Facebook

What’s your favourite part of your job?
When something comes back into season that you haven’t seen in awhile... such as peonies roses in late Spring.

What are you reading at the moment?
Rereading ‘Captain Corelli’s Mandolin’ Louis de Bernieres

What are you lusting after at the moment?
Jonathan Adler Sprout vases

Top three songs on your play list?
Arcade Fire – We used to wait
Camera Obscura – Country Mile
Leeden – Daddy Long Legs

What is your favourite moment during a wedding?
I love a good speech at a wedding... heartfelt, funny stories... even the cringe-worthy ones by an awkward best man!

Who inspires you?
Melanie of Cecilia Fox Floral Studio, she is an inspiration and has been a wonderful mentor.

Favourite Cocktail?
I love a mojito on a summer evening.

What does it take to impress you?
It’s the attention to little details, when thought has been put into something ordinary to make it out of the ordinary.

What is the best piece of advice you were ever given?
Nothing will work unless you do.

Favourite way to spend a Sunday?
Late morning in bed, reading Martha Stewart on my ipad, with a constant supply of hot tea and toast. (the reality is, 6am wake up with our baby girl squealing and smiling and pulling my hair!)

Black Tie or Casual?
I’m a casual lass most of the time, but always love an excuse to frock up and wear a pair of heels.

Your suggestion for a new name for ‘Hens party’
hmmm...all my ideas seem to incorporate a rooster!

Your favourite hostess gift to give?
I love giving my friends and family flowers that they haven’t seen before. Celosia is always a fun one to give because of its texture and shape.

What’s the best gift you have ever received?
My husband took me to a Japanese Mountain Retreat in Montrose for our first year anniversary, because I am obsessed with the film ‘Lost in Translation’ and wanted to wear slippers sitting on the edge of a bed like Bill Murray.

Three words that describe you best.
Thankful, Motivated, Content.

Thanks so much for sharing with us today Sarah!
Sinikka Floral Design is a member of the Portobello Bride Boutique Wedding Guide.

50's Themed Hen's Party by Adrian Tuazon

2011-05-09T10:14:00.000+10:00

Today we are super excited to share with you what could very possibly be the most gorgeous gathering of friends to celebrate Nichola's Hen's Day. The 1950's style dresses and more is so wonderful. It just makes us smile!

A BIG thank you to the very talented Photographer Adrian Tuazon [a Portobello Bride Member] for sharing his wonderful photos.

To see more of the stunning images Adrian captured of Nichola's Hen's Party visit Adrian's Blog.

Getting to Know... babycakes

2011-05-04T09:00:00.002+10:00

Portobello Bride Member: Cake Designers
babycakes | Elwood VIC | Website

What’s your favourite part of your job?
Meeting new people and sampling all of the freshly baked cakes!

What are you reading at the moment?
Unfortunately I don’t get much time to read as much as I would like. I am reading the current  Gourmet Traveller and a novel called “The White Queen”.

What are you lusting after at the moment?
Fresh figs from a neighbour's garden; gorgeous copper saucepans and new  season's Winter boots

Top three songs on your play list?
Bag Raiders – Sunlight;
LCD Soundsystem – Home;
Arcade Fire – The Suburbs

What is your favourite moment during a wedding?
Watching the groom's face light up as the bride walks down the aisle

Who inspires you?
Daniel Chirico – Baker D. Chirico : he is an artisan baker who has stood the test of time and remained true to his product; delicious bread and beautifully packaged

Heston Blumenthal – 3 Michelin star chef who had the passion to succeed although not formally trained. He is a creative genius and I love is obsession with food from history

Peggy Porschen – highly talented cake designer. She creates exquisite cakes and is very generous with imparting her knowledge onto others

Favourite Cocktail?
Classic Gin and Tonic with lots of fresh lime

What does it take to impress you?
People who show initiative and have a genuine passion for what they do

What is the best piece of advice you were ever given?
“Don’t sweat the small stuff”; “Under sell & over-deliver”

Favourite way to spend a Sunday?
We start work at 4am (ouch…) six days a week so a Sunday sleep-in followed by a lazy brunch reading magazines and then a walk on the beach

Black Tie or Casual?
Casual – I prefer cocktail or lounge suit

Your suggestion for a new name for ‘Hens party’
Girls day out

Your favourite hostess gift to give?
Homemade jam

What’s the best gift you have ever received?
Beautiful flowers

Three words that describe you best.
Sincere, ambitious, sensitive

Thanks for sharing with us today Kerrie!
babycakes is a member of the Portobello Bride Boutique Wedding Guide.

Lady Day and It's Beautiful Here Collaboration Photoshoot

2011-05-02T09:00:00.004+10:00

We are excited to share a photo shoot with you today which was a collaboration between two wonderful wedding suppliers who are associated with Portobello Bride. The photography is by It's Beautiful Here, a Boutique Wedding Guide Member and the hair and make up is by Lady Day, who exhibited at the Boutique Wedding Market in Melbourne in March.

Here's what Scout of It's Beautiful Here had to say about the experience:

We kinda got our 80's on, our model eerily channeling icons she had never heard of, from Isabella Rossellini to Kate Bush!

It was a lot of fun and interesting to see the results of a shoot using available light and a homely location. bridal portraits will never be the same!

It was such a great realisation that whilst we shoot weddings in a documentary style, and we love that, its also truly possible to achieve really beautiful portraiture as well. All in the home, all with available light.

We chose the location for this shoot to be in my bedroom as the ceilings are high and the light is amazing. We ended up shooting in almost every room of the apartment and also in the lift and on the rooftop. I loved that our model was able to transform from look to look and that we were overwhelmed with ideas and options as the day progressed. The whole team were so pleased with the unexpected results of our spontaneous experiments. There are so many great, modern ways to shoot bridal and draw inspiration from sources outside the box. - Dana from Lady Day

Goddess!

Ethereal and gorgeous!

80s glam!

Dresses: Vintage and borrowed or owned by Lady Day / It's Beautiful Here.
Hair Accessories: Elysian Creations
Makeup: Dana Leviston at Lady Day
Hair: Poppy Liu at Lady Day
Photography: Scout and Cat from It's Beautiful Here

Mother's Day Special Offer - from Blumin and MOR Cosmetics

2011-05-01T15:04:00.000+10:00

[image from Blumin]

Straight from the Heart for Mums

With Mother’s Day just a week away here in Australia, we thought it a great time to look at the traditions of the celebration, and let you know about a great Mother's Day offer from MOR Cosmetics and Portobello Bride Member Blumin.

Our most modern story says the day started in the early 1900’s. A young spinster and her sister, in Philadelphia, had recently lost their mother to illness and proclaimed their vision of establishing a universal "Mother's Day" as a way of honouring Mothers, past and present. With her friends, she started a letter-writing campaign to urge ministers, businessmen and congressmen to declare a national Mother's Day holiday. She hoped Mother's Day would increase respect for parents and strengthen family bonds. The first official Mothers Day was celebrated on May 10, 1908 with its base in a Methodist church in West Virginia, USA. 

This Mother’s Day, Blumin has teamed up with MOR Cosmetics, to offer a Mother’s Day Gift   “Straight from the Heart” so you can say a genuine thank you to your Mum or someone special. The offer includes a beautifully styled bouquet of bright and luscious blooms paired with a fabulous reusable vintage-style heart-shaped tin containing a MOR soapette and hand cream, all with the stunning and true fragrance of nature!

Choose from the two special MOR products:
• Lychee Flower – (pink heart tin) sparkling sweet lychee flowers united with ripe Berries, soft powdery florals and the slightest hint of Green Forest Woods.
• Marshmallow – (black heart tin) – the soft, romantic scent of Marshmallow, Vanilla Musk and Sugar dipped Rose Petals

Bouquet & Heart Tin $85.00 plus Delivery
Or Bouquet only $65.00 plus Delivery
Last orders taken Wednesday May 4.
(VIC region only)

To order contact the wonderful team at Blumin:

Mobile: 0405 032 566
Email: info@blumin.com.au

Website: www.blumin.com.au

Portobello Bride Featured Wedding - International: Victoria & Graeme by Simon Fazackarley Photography

2011-04-29T09:00:00.013+10:00

Many of us are experiencing Royal wedding withdrawals so we thought we would share another beautiful British Wedding with you. The wedding of Victoria and Graeme was a 1920's inspired picnic style wedding full of amazing details and fun moments as captured by Photographer Simon Fazackarley. Let's take a peek:

Happy moments - this is what a wedding is all about!

Gorgeous, simple and very vintage table deco, old bottles, flowers and feathers.

Bunting, and lots of it make for a happy party. Oh and home made style cakes!

Of course at a 1920s inspired wedding one simply must dance the Charleston!

See more stunning photos of Victoria and Graeme's wedding on Simon Fazackarley's website.

Royal Wedding Fun: Keep Calm Harry is Still Single Poster

2011-04-28T12:00:00.000+10:00

...and just for fun:

[Keep Calm Harry is still Single poster available from All Posters]

Royal Wedding Procession Watercolour Commemorative Tote

2011-04-28T09:00:00.001+10:00

How gorgeous is this water colour of the route of the Royal Wedding Procession? So many commemorative items are just plain ugly, but this is too pretty for words! You can purchase the tote from House That Lars Built.

Getting to Know... In The Booth

2011-04-27T09:00:00.001+10:00

Portobello Bride Member: Photo Booths
In The Booth | Brisbane, QLD | Website | Blog | Facebook

What’s your favourite part of your job?
When we hear stories from brides after their wedding saying that their husband-to-be was dead against having a photo booth but then said afterwards it was the best decision they made for their wedding.

What are you reading at the moment?
‘Tangled’ the book with our six year old daughter.

What are you lusting after at the moment?
To be honest, nothing. I just had a birthday and my family and friends know me well. I was very spoilt.

Top three songs on your play list?
Ummm am I allowed to say I don’t have a playlist?! Our daughter is into Justine Clarke so listening to Justine in the car is about the extent of my musical repertoire at the moment.

What is your favourite moment during a wedding?
The dancing.

Who inspires you?
People that still make time for other people no matter how busy they get.

Favourite Cocktail?
Midori Splice

What does it take to impress you?
Reliability, commitment and attention to detail.

What is the best piece of advice you were ever given?
Stop trying to do everything yourself.

Favourite way to spend a Sunday?
Going to church and spending the day with my family.

Black Tie or Casual?
Black tie. I think it was better when people dressed every day in what we now refer to as ‘dressing up’.

Your suggestion for a new name for ‘Hens party’
Not very catchy or marketable but ‘Don’t do something you’ll regret’!

Your favourite hostess gift to give?
Calling beforehand and asking what they’ve forgotten that they need picked up from the shops on the way over!

What’s the best gift you have ever received?
Hand written notes from our two children. Our eight year old son wrote “say bye to the young times” on my 30th birthday card recently. Nice huh!?

Three words that describe you best.
Wife. Mum. Tea-a-holic.

Thanks so much for sharing with us today Kate!
In the Booth is a member of the Portobello Bride Boutique Wedding Guide.

All White Tea-Inspired Bridal Shower

2011-04-26T10:46:00.000+10:00

We all know the Brits love their tea, so what better time to share this stunning tea-inspired Bridal Shower than in the lead up to the Royal Wedding? This Bridal Shower was styled and created by Bo Peep Productions and is so stunningly sophisticated it makes our hearts skip a beat! It makes us here at Portobello Bride so excited to see such amazing events now being created here in Australia. It seems Bo Peep Productions is a vendor after our own heart!

The white on white colour scheme gives such a crisp, yet whimsical atmosphere!

The stunning cakes were created by the incomparable Hello Naomi.

Not only did the guest enjoy sipping tea, but they were asked to bring a Tea Trio [Cup, Saucer and Cake Plate] as a gift for the Bride-to-be. What a sweet gift idea!

The tea theme continued with the take home favours. Guests were encouraged to mix their own combination of provided ingredients to make bath tea to take home and pamper themselves with. Some of the ingredients provided were: oatmeal, lavender, rose petals, goats milk powder, lemon verbena, orange peel, epsom salts and jugs of various essential oils.

Photos by Natalie Hunfalvay via 100 Layer Cake
Event Styling by Bo Peep Productions
Cakes by Hello Naomi

Gorgeous Vintage Birds Wedding Invitations from Little Flamingo

2011-04-25T09:00:00.002+10:00

Little Flamingo recently emailed us photos of their new invitation design, which is such a wonderful mix of traditional and contemporary that we simply had to share it with you all.They have such a great vintage charm to them and with their blue and cream colour scheme, they would be a perfect inspiration for your own Royal Wedding inspired celebration!

A shimmery gold pocket with a sweet die-cut is printed in a thermographic (raised) ink with the vintage bird design along with bride and groom's names and they're wedding date. Inside a navy blue invitation card holds their celebration details and is printed in a flat cream ink. Reception information, response card and gift information cards are printed in navy blue on cream shimmer card and all slide neatly into this unique customised pocket.

[Photos by Tim Pascoe]

The Vintage Birds Invitation is part of the current Little Flamingo wedding invitation range available though their website or in their Sydney showroom.

Portobello Bride Featured Wedding: Ramona & Daryl by It's Beautiful Here

2011-04-22T09:00:00.002+10:00

Today we have the pleasure of sharing the personal and intimate wedding of Ramona and Daryl. The wedding was held in the Bride's share house in Fitzroy, Victoria. The gorgeous photos below were taken by Portobello Bride Member It's Beautiful Here.

Ramona tells us about her stunning dress:

My dress is so old I don't know who made it, but the Wedding Gown Specialists in Caulfield did an outstanding, loving restoration job on it and the amazing women at Elite Alterations in Richmond fitted it to me perfectly, in one go.

My grandmother bought it for my mother in 1960 when Mum was 15, to wear to her first ball. But Mum never wore it and in 1980 when I was 15 I pretty much stole it from her claiming it would "be the dress I married in" ... and it was! Thanks Nana.

The intimate atmosphere of this wedding is so precious!

Daryl and Ramona especially wanted to have photos taken outside this local unused church. The couple have spent many hours on these church steps together with a glass of wine. It's a very special place for them. Another beautiful personal touch.

Heath Boyd was our caterer and he was so easy to work with, he made the whole catering experience a delight. He embraced our vegan wedding with gusto and I think every guest commented on the amazing food he made. I hope I get to work with Heath again and can't recommend him enough! - Ramona [Bride]

What a beautifully personal and unique wedding!

Congratulations Ramona and Daryl. Best wishes to you both for your life together!

Thanks to Scout from It's Beautiful Here for allowing us to share these great images!

Getting to Know... Emici Bridal

2011-04-20T09:00:00.001+10:00

Portobello Bride Member: Bridal Accessories
Emici Bridal | Washington State, USA | Website | Store | Blog | Twitter | Facebook

What’s your favourite part of your job?
I would have to say client photos. The first time I got some I actually cried a little. It’s one thing to design an accessory in your studio. It’s quite another to see it in the bigger picture that it was intended for with your actual clients.

What are you reading at the moment?
Voltaire: In His Letters. I picked up an old copy while looking for antique books. They are personal letters written by Voltaire to various people and about various things. Fantastic insight into such an amazing mind and time.

What are you lusting after at the moment?
To be truthful I don’t lust after much... except perhaps a vintage brooch or textile. That can turn my head. Admiring something is a whole other story though. I can and do admire many things but still do not want to take them home.

Top three songs on your play list?
This is such a hard question! I am a music nut. Just so that I can say I gave a solid effort for this here are three from among the many that I really love:
Cat Power – Metal Heart The Jukebox version. I know there are a lot of purists that love the older version of hers but how she sings the first line in this version kills me every time. It cuts me to the core. Her voice is amazing and she is so delightfully unpredictable.
Swell Season – Low Rising Simply pulls you in and won’t let go.
Band of Horses – Our Swords The bass in this anchors it in a way that I could listen to forever.

What is your favourite moment during a wedding?
It is impossible to deny the power of the moment when the couple first see each other just before they are married. I get misty just thinking about it.

Who inspires you?
I am inspired by so many people and things. When I go out I will mentally deconstruct things that I see to relate to what I do. Last time I was out I took a cell phone photo of a city drain cover because the pattern was so beautiful.

Favourite Cocktail?
Don’t have one, is that strange?

What does it take to impress you?
Passion, kindness and a sense of humour combine for an impressive combination of character I think. Those people impress me.

What is the best piece of advice you were ever given?
Never be afraid to fail, it’s a stepping stone to success. I fail all the time and it’s great!

Favourite way to spend a Sunday?
I love to wander with my family. I think some of the best days are ones that are not planned but you just go. That way you can find things you would have never seen.

Black Tie or Casual?
Black tie is fun but I have to go with casual.

Your suggestion for a new name for ‘Hens party’
Tumble party. Jack and Jill went up the hill... and Jill came tumbling after. I would like to say because she fell in love.

Your favourite hostess gift to give?
Decadent desserts! Sweets AND a party? What could be better?

What’s the best gift you have ever received?
It has to be my kids. I love being a mom and spending time with them.

Three words that describe you best.
Rapt, resourceful and driven.

Thanks so much for sharing with us today Marie!
Emici Bridal is a member of the Portobello Bride Boutique Wedding Guide. While Marie is located in the USA she does ship her gorgeous items to Australia.

Engagement Mexican Cake Trio by Cake Ink

2011-04-18T09:26:00.000+10:00

A gorgeous Mexican bird bunting from super-talented NZ design house Citta Design was the inspiration behind this fresh and summery cake table put together for a recent outdoor engagement fiesta by the amazing duo of Portobello Bride Member Cake Ink. Three coordinated cakes decorated with hand made large sugar roses and rustic piping were the focal point against an airy aqua and white backdrop. Refreshing iced tea accompanied the rich slices of cake. Guests took home a bar of hand made soap which were wrapped in beautiful floral fabric, held together with custom matching labels as a party favour.

The colours are so spectacular - so fresh, bright, Summery and festive!

The simple styling really lets the patterns and colours sing!

Gorgeous!

[The bird bunting, tea towel and napkins are all from Citta Design]

What a fun, but stylish way to celebrate an engagement! This could also be a great theme for a Bridal Show, Couple's Shower, or even a rehearsal dinner!

A big thank you to Janelle and Samone for sharing their amazing work with us! See more of their gorgeous styling on the Cake Ink Blog.

Cake Ink is part of the Portobello Bride Boutique Wedding Guide along with many other unique and wonderful wedding vendors.

The Little White Wedding Company Wedding Workshop - This Weekend!

2011-04-13T19:37:00.000+10:00

Now you have got to know Victoria from The Little White Wedding Company a little more, why not join in with the amazing Wedding Workshop she is running this weekend! All the details are below!

[click image for larger version]