Set on 101 acres and surrounded by national parks and surf beaches, Silversprings provided the perfect backdrop for Gabi and Ryan’s relaxed outdoor wedding.
“Nature was the inspiration for us, we wanted to have an outdoor wedding, with lots of greenery, good casual food (hence the food truck idea). Less formalities and more dancing!” says Gabi, who did an incredible job in bringing the entire day together.
Tell us about how you met and the proposal?
We met at the Raffles Hotel in Perth in 2010. After a bit of persistence, I accepted a date with Ryan. Five years after that first date, Ryan took me on a hike up Bluff Knoll in the Stirling Ranges and proposed on top of the mountain.
What DIY projects did you do accomplish for the wedding?
Cake decoration, table decorations (ferns), gifts for bridal party, flower girls outfit, sweet truffles.
Were there any traditions you involved in the wedding?
I gifted Ryan with a beautiful Swiss-made watch (when he was getting ready). I walked down the aisle carrying a pearl and gold rosary (a Brazilian tradition).
What advice would you give to other couples leading up to their big day?
Communicate clearly with your planner, celebrant and bridal party what you want and how you want things to look and run on the day. If things aren’t perfect on the day, quickly think: can this be fixed? If yes, get someone to fix it; if no, let it go. Always have a plan B.
But the best advice we have is take yourselves away from the party, away from people and just watch the amazing wedding you both achieved and all the people who came to celebrate your love. Your heart will be filled with love and gratitude.
What does marriage mean to you?
Marriage is a commitment to love and support each other through good and hard times; it’s a bond that you choose to have with a person who you want to spend the rest of your life with. Marriage is a dream come true to us.
What was your favourite moment on the day?
The ceremony was incredibly emotional to us. Looking into each other’s eyes we expressed so much happiness and gratitude for one another. We couldn’t stop smiling and felt an amazing energy.
Ceremony song?
‘Two Little Words’ by Reuben Koops and ‘The Girl From Ipanema’ by Antonio Carlos Jobim and Frank Sinatra.
First dance song?
‘Your Song’ by Matt Johnson.
CREDITS: Photos Bianca Kate Photography // Flowers Siobhan Terry // Ceremony and reception Silversprings Cottages Wedding and Wine // Catering La Carreta // Cake Jackie’s Phenomenal Cakes // Bridal gown and veil Ae’lkemi Brides // Shoes Miss KG // Accessories Swarovski // Bridesmaid dresses Shona Joy // Grooms suit Tagliatore via Khirzad // Groomsmen suits Zara // Groomsmen gifts Antoine & Stanley and M.J. Bale // Rings Stefan Diamonds // Hair Samantha Barridge // Makeup Shana MacKinnon Feakes // Music Dj Swami // Celebrant Married by Sharmini // Wedding coordinator Sophiamonique Weddings + Events // Alcohol suppliers Gilbert Family Wines // Glamping Soul Camping.
