The Special Couple: Samantha + Mitchell

THE FIRST SIGHT & PROPOSAL

We met through an online dating site after both having given up on casual dating. I fell for him when he sent me a copy of his undergraduate chemical engineering thesis (we are nerds).

Mitchell asked my Mom if he could use her stone since he knew it meant a lot to me, as my father chose it, and he had previously passed away. Mitchell secretly flew 14hrs from Australia (where we live) to California (where my Mom lives), where he picked up the stone and had it set in a new band, and then immediately flew back to Australia, where I was waiting under the impression he was on a weekend work trip. The following weekend went on a romantic getaway to the hinterlands where we took a walk down to see the waterfall. Mitchell proposed while I was lying in his arms at the base of that waterfall!

THE INSPIRATION

My vision for the ceremony came from my love of fantasy. I envisioned an enchanted forest; elegant and romantic forest setting overflowing with greenery and candles. The string quartet in the woods truly brought the romance to the next level. The reception took on this same elegant romance with greenery. However, we kept this minimal, as the Ventana terrace was amazing in itself. This reception was our idea of a classy backyard bbq, as my Australian husband had become obsessed with American bbq. We included classic food like corn on the cob and bbq chicken, but Ventana gave everything a sophisticated upgrade, with the presentation, unlike any backyard bbq I’ve ever seen.

THE BRIDAL LOOK & SAYING "YES" TO THE DRESS

The woodland nymph was my style inspiration. I wanted to look like a fairy princess, and in my opinion, the girls from “Team Hair and Makeup” absolutely nailed it!

For me, Galia Lahav Gia gown was love at first sight. I tried this gown on first and never looked back. I absolutely loved everyone from Eternal Bridal. The trunk show was such a special day, and they were so patient and attentive and I felt like a queen. I also had a wonderful experience with the Sydney shop and my fittings, where everyone was so friendly and supportive!

THE HIGHLIGHT

The best thing is I finally get to call Mitchell my husband! It was amazing bringing together all of our friends and family from 7 different countries, and spending time with those we haven’t seen in many years. Finally, seeing my dream vision for this romantic elegant woods wedding come to life!

SAMANTHA'S ADVICE

Trust your wedding planners! My team at “Alison Weddings” was unbelievable from start to finish, and I wish I had let go earlier and let them work their magic.

Samantha wore ‘Gia’ from Galia Lahav Haute Couture. See more gowns from Galia Lahav Collection here

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