~Bernadette Brushe, Celebrant~ *Preferred Vendor* {Gold Coast Weddings}

Here is the next super fabulous lady in my series of "Preferred Vendor" interviews. I just love working with Bernadette... she has a lovely, relaxed & fun spirit while remaining professional and detail oriented. We get along like a house on fire! 

Here is what one of our last clients had to say about her: "I cant believe how stressful it can be leading up to a wedding & then on the day everything just seemed so calm & relaxed & the photos really show it… you and our celebrant Bernadette really helped me in feeling that way, you both helped create such a laid back but professional atmosphere." 

Enjoy!
xoxo Martinia

Please introduce yourself

Hi! My name is Bernadette, I’m a Civil Marriage Celebrant. 

I live at beautiful Tamborine Mountain, and conduct ceremonies in Northern NSW; Gold Coast; Brisbane; Sunshine Coast and surrounding areas.

Can you tell us about your services and what you offer?

I love being a celebrant because I get to spend my time with people during the happiest times of their lives – Celebrating life’s milestones!
Whether it be your Wedding, Elopement, Commitment Ceremony, Renewal of Vows, or Baby Naming I offer a fresh, contemporary approach to your ceremony, with a focus on creating a ceremony truly memorable and unique to you.

I believe your ceremony should be a celebration of your relationship, which expresses your feelings, and reflects your own style and personality.

I think it’s a great idea to catch up first for an obligation free chat – it’s really important you feel totally comfortable with your Celebrant, and that you choose someone who you relate to well, and who gets you!  So they can capture your feelings and your personality in the ceremony they write for you.

I offer unlimited number of meetings, phone and email access – whatever is going to make you feel comfortable.

I take care of all the legal requirements, ensuring you are aware of what these are, and that they are all completed correctly and within the required timings.

I include a rehearsal, as I believe it’s a must and not an optional extra.  It will give you some comfort knowing what to expect when the nerves and emotions kick in on the day J

On your Wedding Day, I arrive at least half an hour early; provide a high quality PA through which you can play your music, signing table and pen.  I dress appropriately to suit your style and colours and deliver your ceremony in a warm, calm and professional manner.

How early do you accept bookings?

I accept bookings up to 2 years in advance.  Normally a booking is made when we start on the legal paperwork with the NOIM.  This can’t be done any earlier than 18 months before the wedding.  We can discuss requirements and organize meetings prior to that.

What is important for couples to be aware of?

In regard to Celebrant Services, it’s important that couples are aware of the legal requirements.  I always ensure my couples are aware of exactly what these are, however, it’s my responsibility to ensure they’re implemented.

It’s also important you choose a Celebrant you feel totally comfortable with, as it’s quite a personal thing, communicating your feelings and on the day, the 3 of us are very closely involved in the moment together – you want to feel good with that.

Why should couples book with you?

I have a relaxed and friendly nature and believe preparing your ceremony should be an enjoyable, stress free experience, with a bit of fun and a laugh along the way!

You can relax and enjoy your special day, confident that I will deliver your ceremony with professionalism, sincerity and warmth, and will take the time to ensure you are feeling comfortable throughout the ceremony.

What special advice do you suggest?

I always suggest my couples nominate a contact person for the day. Someone who has all the providers phone numbers, and they all have that persons phone number.  That way, if there’s any hold ups, there is someone who is not the Bride or Groom or in the Wedding Party, who is calm and collected and can deal with any last minute hiccups, without the Bride and Groom needing to know about it or stress about it.

And most importantly – Take your time!  This is your moment, you have all the time in the world. When you arrive at the ceremony, before you walk down the aisle, take a moment, to breathe and take it all in, the setting, your guests smiling faces – this is your wedding!  Once you’ve walked down the aisle, let the music play a little longer, so you can take some time to relax.  I like to have plenty of little pauses throughout the ceremony, to ensure the bride and groom are feeling comfortable and enjoying their wedding ceremony.  This isn’t going to be obvious to the guests or draw the ceremony out any longer, but it will give you the chance to ensure you don’t miss any of it and cherish every moment. 

How can they get in contact? 

Phone: 0407 176 052

Email: bernadette@mycelebrantgoldcoast.com.au

Website: www.mycelebrantgoldcoast.com.au

Facebook: www.facebook.com/mycelebrantgoldcoast

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MyCelebrantGC

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/mycelebrantgc/

~Cloudland~ *Preferred Vendor* {Brisbane Wedding}

Here is the next gorgeous venue in my series of "Preferred Vendor" interviews. This stunning Brisbane city location has it all. Lovely, helpful staff...yummy food (yes, I had a few nibbles) and  each room has a different theme with lush decor. It is truly amazing! Even the toilets were lavish. I can't wait to share it with you.

Enjoy!
xo Martinia

Please introduce yourself

Hi, I'm Jenni Bentley, The Wedding Executive at Cloudland.

Can you tell us about your services and what you offer?

Cloudland is a unique and opulent venue for your ceremony and/or reception. Designed with luxury interiors on a scale unrivalled in Brisbane, Cloudland has become more than a venue, uplifted to a world of glamour, elegance and imagination. There are seven stunning function spaces and a wide range of wedding packages available to suit any taste and budget. You can exchange vows in front of your closest and dearest and then celebrate amongst Cloudland’s famous design features.Your guests will be awed by the hanging garden, marvel at the 10 metre waterfall and stand astonished at the 19,000 crystal ball bar. Whether you’re after a simple cocktail party or a lavish dinner, step inside Cloudland’s world and be confident your special day will be forever memorable.

How early do you accept bookings?

Wedding bookings can be made as far in advance as you like! But I'd suggest booking as soon as possible to secure your preferred date and room.

What is important for couples to be aware of?

Planning a wedding can be very overwhelming for a couple, so stay calm and rely on your suppliers! We are here to help. Ask as many questions as you like as we want you to feel comfortable when making all your decisions.

Why should couples book with you?

Cloudland is a breathtaking venue that is sure to wow your guests and also provide a stunning backdrop for your photos! Our professional team assures beauty in every detail from mouthwatering catering and exceptional service ensuring your wedding is nothing short of spectacular.

What special advice do you suggest?

Keep an eye on wedding blogs for inspiration and helpful tips. Also, on the big day take some time out to be with each other and enjoy being husband and wife. The day will fly past in an instant with getting ready, the ceremony, photographs and mingling with guests, so try to escape for ten minutes and take it all in.

How can they get in contact?

Website: www.cloudland.tv
Phone: 07 3114 7451
Email: cloudland.weddings@katarzyna.com.au
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/cloudlandtv/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/CloudlandTV
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CloudlandTV
Instagram: http://instagram.com/cloudlandbrisbane

~Belladonna Brides~ *Preferred Vendor* {Brisbane Wedding}

After a fabulous but hectic peak wedding season and then the holidays, I'm back to bring you awesome tips and terrific vendors. Hooray! (you can thank me later *wink*) Here is the next in the series of 'Preferred Vendors'... Belladonna Brides. Absolutely stunning makeup and perfect hairdos! Their handy work made my job just that much easier. Thank you! Thank you!

Enjoy!
xo Martinia

Please introduce yourself 

Hi, our names are Belinda and Donna and we along with our amazing team of stylists are known as Belladonna Brides, a Premium Hair and Makeup Team specializing in Weddings.

Can you tell us about your services and what you offer? 

Belladonna Brides offers a mobile Wedding Hair and Makeup service for Brides, Bridal Parties and their Families and Friends. We also offer pamper packages and spray tanning for that perfect glow for your wedding day.

How early do you accept bookings? 

We accept bookings for weddings as early as a couple of years before the big day right up until the day before if needed and availability permits.

What is important for couples to be aware of? 

 Our advice for couples on things to be aware of would be to name a couple.

1.Plan well in advance to avoid any disappointment in missing out on booking your preferred suppliers.

2.Always invest in quality as cheaper prices do not always guarantee quality workmanship and products.

Why should couples book with you? 

A Brides Hair and Makeup for her wedding day is one of the most important things to get right. We provide a one on one attentive service understanding that a Bride wants to feel and look the most beautiful she ever has on her wedding day. Both Bride and Groom will be happily looking at the wedding pictures forever with a Belladonna Brides Makeover.

What special advice do you suggest? 

Having a trial and being prepared with pictures of hair and makeup looks. Try not to overwhelm yourself by looking at hundreds of images. A minimum of one and a maximum of three is perfect.

How can they get in contact? 

Feel free to contact us on our website or facebook page to view our portfolio full of hair and makeup images and past and present brides.  Please see below for contact details.

Mobile: 0452 248 427

Email: belladonnabrides@gmail.com

Website: www.belladonnabrides.com.au

~Wedding colours that photograph well~ *Guest Blog* {Gold Coast Wedding Photographer}

As you all know, I LOVE providing fresh info and tips (as well as gorgeous images) to all of you lovely brides-to-be. So I am SUPER excited to share this guest post by Kristine from Simply Bridal (written specifically for you) with you.

Enjoy!
xo Martinia

Wedding Colours That Photograph Well

Selecting perfect colours for your wedding day can seem to be a very tough decision for most brides. At times it can seem completely overwhelming searching for inspiration, as there are so many amazing options. There are so many different variables to consider and the options really are endless. For example, one bride may go out in search of bridesmaid dresses and base the colour palette around that, when another bride may pick her colour scheme based on the flowers she plans on incorporating into her big day.

Sometimes brides ask which colours photograph the best and the answer to that is pretty much any colour excluding black and white. Due to the high contrast in these colours, they tend to not photograph as well. Also, when photographing black and white you’ll notice the images tend to lack the ability to capture as much detail.

One of the best ways to go about determining your colour palette is to start with the season you’re getting hitched in. If your wedding is in the spring or summer, don’t be afraid to use more vibrant colours as opposed to if your wedding was in the fall or winter where more classic and rich hues are more appropriate. Pastels are also a great option as well, and by matching your bridal bouquet to your bridesmaids you’ll have fluid and eye-catching wedding photos.

Pinks and Oranges are great colours to use for a summer wedding. Not only do they fit the time of the year, but these shades usually photograph beautifully. They tend to show detail really well and the brightness of these hues create a jovial and celebratory atmosphere.

If you’re planning on having a fall wedding, consider warm tones such as chocolate brown, burgundy and bronze. By going with a warm toned-down colour scheme, you will make your guests feel right at home as well as fit right into the stunning scenic background this season offers.

As long as you select colours that complement each other and suit the overall theme and feel of your big day, your wedding photos should come out beautifully. And don’t forget to add that million-dollar smile to top it all off!

About SimplyBridal

SimplyBridal.com is an online retailer of quality wedding dresses, bridesmaid gowns, and bridal accessories. Started in Los Angeles in 2011, SimplyBridal now ships to North America, much of Europe, and parts of Asia. SimplyBridal’s dresses have been featured on Style Me Pretty, Rock ‘n Roll Bride, and Wedding Chicks.

~Wendy Marshall, Celebrant~ *Preferred Vendor* {Gold Coast Weddings}

Here is the next in the series of "Preferred Vendor" interviews. I worked with Wendy Marshall, earlier this year and it was a true pleasure. It was a rainy day with location changes but it didn't seem to phase her. She loves her job and it shows through in her lovely, unique, very personal ceremonies.

Enjoy!
xo Martinia

Please introduce yourself

HI, I’m Wendy Marshall and I’m an Authorised Civil Marriage celebrant,

Can you tell us about your services and what you offer? 
I design and perform tailor made marriage ceremonies, naming ceremonies, renewal of vow ceremonies and commitment ceremonies.  I believe that no two people are the same and therefore, no ceremony should be the same.  Each ceremony I design is unique and personalized for the couple and reflects their dreams and wishes and honours their love for one another.

How early do you accept bookings?

I encourage you to book as far in advance as possible – I am currently taking bookings for 2015.  It has been my experience, that those who are able to book at least 18 months in advance, are successful in securing the services of their preferred suppliers.  Tick these three of your list as early as possible – Venue, Celebrant and Photographer.

What is important for couples to be aware of? 
Firstly, to embrace every moment of your wedding day to ensure you always have the fondest memories.  The day flies by and before you know it, you are ending your first day as husband and wife.  Don’t let little things become big things – for example, if your flower girls doesn’t want to walk down the aisle, even though you rehearsed it three times, it’s OK if she doesn’t walk at all, or if she walks with a bridesmaid or mum.  I try to encourage all my couples to relax as much as possible and don’t sweat the small stuff.

I think it is important that couples also understand they are signing legal documents and making declarations as required by law on their wedding day.  Whilst I encourage all my clients to enjoy their day, make it fun and uplifting, there are certain requirements that have to be met and it is my job to ensure that they are.  Oh, and a word about drinking before your ceremony…. If you can’t drive a car, then you can’t sign a legal document – a few light beers or a champagne to calm your nerves is Ok, but don’t over do it before the ceremony – afterwards – go for it!!

Why should couples book with you?

I urge all the couples that I meet with to make sure they spend time meeting with wedding suppliers before booking, to make sure they feel a real connection.  This is so important – especially when it comes to photographers and celebrants.  These professionals will be in your close personal space on your wedding day, so it’s important there is a good rapport established before hand.  I find that people book with me because they feel comfortable and at ease in my presence – I’m pretty easy to get along with and am told by my clients that they find my nurturing and relaxed manner quite comforting on their wedding day.

 

What special advice do you suggest?

Take the time to really think about the ceremony and it’s meaning to the two of you – you are making very personal promises to one another for your life together and you want the ceremony to reflect the story of your love.  So many couples only realize upon reflection, just how much the ceremony really meant to them.  You will be surprised by just how easy it is to say what you want to say to your bride or groom, even in front of your family and friends, because when you are standing in the ceremony space,  you are just so focused on the person you love who is standing before you.

How can they get in contact? 
Wendy Marshall
Ph: 0437 637 364
Website: www.weddingsbywendy.com.au 
Email: weddingsbywendy@bigpond.com 
Facebook: www.facebook.com/WeddingsByWendy 
Twitter: twitter.com/GCCelebrant

~Rina Hepworth, Hair & Makeup Artist~ *Preferred Vendor* {Gold Coast Weddings}

Here is the next fabulous supplier in the Preferred Vendor Interviews. I've known this lovely lady for years and I've been DYING to have a bride in common. Finally, the day came and all I can say is...ooh la la!! She is amazing at enhancing your natural features with truly stunning results. If you want to look your very best, look no further! Feel free to view the entire shoot here as it was featured on the ever gorgeous Style Me Pretty blog.

Enjoy!
xo Martinia

Please introduce yourself

My name is Rina Hepworth, I have been living on the beautiful Gold Coast since 1996 and been a Professional Makeup Artist and Hair Stylist since 2002.

Can you tell us about your services and what you offer?

We offer Professional Makeup and Hair Styling for every type of event. Weddings, Photo Shoots, School Formals, Special Events, Calendars and more. Airbrush and Conventional Makeup application are available. One of my Hair Stylists is also a fabulous Hair Dresser.

A mobile service is available and we travel all over the Gold Coast and are able to travel to Byron Bay & Brisbane for a minimum of number of services.

*A travel fee applies for some areas

How early do you accept bookings?

10-12 month in advance at the most.

What is important for couples to be aware of?

Unfortunately not every artist out there has been through a Professional Course or uses Professional products. Sometimes clients will go for the lower price over the experience of another artist. With 11yrs experience in this industry I have heard so many stories of disappointment and wishing they had have spent a few extra dollars.

Why should couples book with you?

We offer a Professional yet relaxed, stress free experience. All of my girls have been hand picked by myself. They have a minimum of 10yrs experience, along with a passion for Makeup and Hair. Not to mention are very friendly and talented. I’m extremely picky with who I will send out to represent my name/business. We never over book clients and each artist is booked for only one wedding per day.

What special advice do you suggest?

Word of mouth is and has always been the best way to find the services you require for your event in my opinion. Vendors in the industry usually have a number of people they highly recommend. I personally only recommend others that I’ve known and worked with for many years.

Advice for Makeup and Hair leading up to your big day. Makeup looks better and lasts longer if your skin is hydrated. Otherwise your skin will take the moisture from the products and end up looking dry.

I recommend having a good skincare regime as well as drinking plenty of water and cutting down on soft drinks (if you drink them) and junk food.

If you plan to start using skincare or are thinking of changing your products, do so at least 6 months prior to your wedding. This gives your skin time to adjust to the products.

If you are unsure about skincare or need some advice, please feel free to contact me and we can arrange a consultation.

 

How can they get in contact? 

 

Mobile: 0414960857 (between 9:30am-4pm M-F)

Email: info@rinahepworth.com

Website: www.rinahepworth.com

Facebook: just type www.rinahepworth.com into the search bar

Instagram: RINA_MAKEUP_HAIR

Twitter: @rinahepworth

~Amoré Gardens~ *Preferred Vendor* {Gold Coast Weddings}

Here is the next fabulous venue of the "Preferred Vendor" interviews. Amoré Gardens is set in the enchanting Currumbin Valley with beautiful, lush greenery. It is like an oasis with tons of stunning trees and gorgeous water features alongside the beauty of the creek and stunning hinterlands. I have another sensational wedding there early next year...so stay tuned for more jaw-dropping images.

Enjoy!
xo Martinia

Please introduce yourself

Hello my name is Tina Wade and I have owned and operated Amore Gardens for four and a half years now, and have done a lot weddings. My very hands on approach with brides and grooms, and dealing with just myself, make each wedding very special and well run.

Can you tell us about your services and what you offer?

We offer both Ceremony and Reception at our venue. We are a BYO venue and we have our own very successful catering business. We understand food is one of the very important parts of a wedding. Our menus offer great value. We also do the decorating of tables and chairs, when choosing a buffet or sit down alternate drop menu. Our venue offers spectacular photo opportunities, it is exclusive use for your wedding day, so you can enjoy your own little piece of paradise for your wedding day.

How early do you accept bookings?

I will take bookings any time in advance, as some couples have special dates, so any time for a booking is a good time for me.

What is important for couples to be aware of?

I think the most important thing for couples to be aware of, is making sure that the pricing they are given will remain the same when the wedding day gets closer, or if not, what the increases might be. I have had many people come through in the past, trying to find another venue because pricing increased dramatically. The other thing is to make sure that the venue will remain open. This is another very disappointing that has happened to couples. You choose the venue because you love it, so to have to change during the middle of planning can be very stressful and upsetting.

Why should couples book with you?

If you are looking for a venue that is quite unique to the usual function room, this is us. We have plenty of space to utilise both in and outside of the pavilion. We are flexible in providing what you really want to do for your wedding day. So if you wish to change menu options, add anything you really want to include, for example, I have had a lot of weddings where the couples dog or dogs have come, we allow what a lot of other venues will not. We off support and help anytime, we are here to help make your whole experience of planning your day as stress free as can be.

What special advice do you suggest?

The best advice I could give from my experiences here, is that if on the wedding day something doesn’t go to plan; don’t look upon it as a negative thing, look at it as a story to tell of your wedding day. When I am talking about things not going to plan, it is such things as it being a rainy day, someone forgetting to bring something, basically things that you cannot control yourself.

How can they get in contact?

You can contact us via email, phone, our website or Facebook. Our details are:

Phone: 07 55330094

Email: info@amoregardens.com

Website: www.amoregardens.com

Facebook Link:  Amoré Gardens Wedding and Function Venue