Catherine and Dylan

A wedding that pays homage to your own sense of style – whether that is classic romantic or bohemian – goes down as magic in my book. Catherine and Dylan planned an ethereal old-world elegance wedding at Bendooley Estate, that was every bit as beautiful as the title leads us to believe. Luckily they chose James at All Grown Up Weddings to capture every last moment.

The newlyweds met at university, Catherine recounting “I was 19 and studying commerce, Dylan was 20 and studying chiropractics. I worked at the uni bar and met Dylan one afternoon in September. I saw him again at a house party where he lent me some tracksuit pants out of the back of his car because I was cold. We still laugh that he gave me pants as his first gift! But seriously, Dylan was selfless and kind from the start – thinking always about my comfort and happiness.”

The bride chose a beautiful Karen Willis Holmes gown to which she added accessories to change her look throughout the day. She tells “I wore custom Karen Willis Holmes, a structured ivory fit and flare dress with a v-neck and spaghetti straps. Over that, I wore a Chantilly lace top with full-length sleeves and button up back. I took off the top at the reception and replaced it with a glittery belt (because who doesn’t love a tiny bit of shiny!)” She added, “The experience with the lovely consultants in Paddington was easy, quick and fun with my Mum and sisters providing guidance and support. I didn’t get overly emotional, I just said ‘Ýes, this is good – here is the credit card!’”

Emma Blake Floral created the stunning floral arrangements for the day, including an arch under which the couple married. The arch also happened to be Catherine’s favourite detail of the day. She noted “I loved the arch under which we were married. The floral arrangement was stunning and everyone commented how spectacular it looked against the lake backdrop.” She adds “Emma Blake Floral designed stunningly beautiful bouquets, the ceremony archway, table and ceiling installations and other incredible touches. The brief was dark but creamy and moody tones, wild but classic.”

Catherine tells “My father walked me down the aisle to the song ‘1000x’ by Jarryd James feat. Broods. Dylan cried happy tears the entire time.”

The couple chose Bendooley Estate for their ceremony and reception. Catherine explaining, “We were set up by the lakeside for the ceremony and had pre-dinner drinks at the cellar door. The Book Barn had three long tables for a relaxed but glamorous reception. We chose wines not on the menu and ensured there was Moet & Chandon flowing all night long. We had delicious share platters of roast lamb, chicken, salad and sides.”

Of her vision for the day the bride explains, “Our wedding had autumnal, ethereal styling. I wanted to capture a sense of old-world elegance and Great Gatsby theming inside a beautiful country book shop (Bendooley Estate). I am a horse rider and country girl at heart (despite always living in Sydney). Dylan just wanted me to be happy so didn’t mind where we got married. “

Of their photographers, Catherine tells, “All Grown Up Weddings were a fantastic photography collective to work with – I had the option of many talented photographers. James was funny, easy-going and professional. He felt like a friend by the end of the day. He made us all feel very comfortable and was present without being intrusive. He moved quickly and confidently, ensuring we utilized the best spaces (despite the drizzly Southern Highlands weather).”

The couple’s wedding cake was created by The Cake Arcade and featured a topper of fondant-crafted replicas of the bride and groom with their bouncing dog, Bertie.

The newlyweds chose “Dog Years” by Maggie Rogers for their first dance. Catherine remembering, “Dylan was nervous to dance so we had a very short but special moment together before inviting everyone onto the dance floor.”

To cap off the beautiful day, With Heart captured this film; the video showing the emotion, the beauty and the moments of the day.

Congratulations on your big day Catherine and Dylan! Thank you for sharing it with us! Thank you also to All Grown Up Weddings for sharing today’s stunning celebration!