When I started Savvy Brides two and a half years ago, my dream was always to have a shop. A gorgeous little spot that was girly and comfortable where brides could come and try on lots of beautiful dresses and even though they were buying a second hand dress it wouldn’t feel like a second hand experience.

As time has passed, my business has grown and I have been so lucky to get lots of amazing preloved designer gowns by brilliant designers like Jenny Packham, Vera Wang, Oscar De La Renta, Steven Khalil and Johanna Johnson. As word spread and dresses started selling it soon became apparent that I was outgrowing my current space and so the search began for the perfect spot! I hunted around and eventually found a pretty little shopfront exactly where I wanted to be – in Double Bay.

The day I got the keys was so exciting! But the minute I started looking around, I realised how much work was involved to get the shop looking and feeling the way I wanted it to. My long suffering husband and my father did it all (with the help of a very patient builder for a couple of days) and it was a massive task which took about a month! It involved removing and replacing a floor, ripping down walls, rendering, painting, sanding, drilling and lots more things that I don’t even know about! I spent this time finding beautiful pieces to furnish the shop, lighting, rails, shelving, mirrors and decoration.

I decided to celebrate the opening of my new shop by having an opening event. When I set the date we thought we had plenty of time to finish the shop and so the invitations went out.

By the time the week of the opening rolled around, the shop was not actually on track to be ready and 100 people had RSVPed that they were attending!

There was a massive push at the end to get it all finished and on the day before the opening I came into the shop and could have cried! My husband and my father were there as usual working very hard. A builder my husband had befriended was there working on the electricals, a man from two doors down was helping with the door handles, the neighbour from the cafe next door was there working too. It was an amazing moment! So many people from our little community had come together to try and help give Savvy the best start! It seriously brought tears to my eyes!

Standing in my finished shop on the day of the opening was one of the happiest moments of my life. Seeing this gorgeous space, even better than anything I had pictured was this amazing feeling of seeing my dreams come true. Watching my Savvy Brides sign go up out the front and all my beautiful dresses go up on my bespoke wrought iron dress racks was just perfect!

For the opening I made contact with lots of fabulous vendors that I either knew or had heard about to ask them to get involved in the event. I was so lucky that so many got on board.

The shop was filled with beautiful dark and light pink peony roses and soft cream David Austin roses, lisianthus and gardenias all provided by Merci Bouquet. Love and Protect provided masses of flameless candles to cover every inch of the shop and as the sun set, the twinkling of the candles filled the shop..

Waiters served peach bellinis, champagne, pinot grigio, sauvignon blanc and rose all supplied by Jacobs Creek from their new ‘Cool Harvest’ range and Peroni beer. The delicious catering from Mason Rose included: tartlets of roasted tomato with smoked mozzarella and olive tapenade, wholemeal pancake of roasted duck with shallot and cucumber, char grilled mini medallions of beef en croute with wasabi mustard and blue cheese tarts with onion and cardamom jam. Guests were also treated to the sweet delights of a gorgeous lolly buffet provided by Sugar Cube Lolly Buffets. The lolly table included delicious treats including nougat, caramel popcorn, milk bottles, marshmallows and fudge. Wedding cake designer, Yummy Cupcakes also provided cakes in luscious lemon and hazelnut truffle.

The fabulous Nadean from Photography by Nadean took photos on the night which turned out beautifully! I was very lucky that Vanilla Jam (the café next door) stayed open for the night so that guests could spill over into the café and onto the street. We had about 100 guests and it was so lovely to have so many brides, wedding vendors and friends there to celebrate this milestone in the Savvy Brides journey.

Guests all took home a goodie bag containing:

-       Chocolate from Lindt chocolates

-       Candle holders from Favour Perfect

-       Hair masque treatment: Al’chemy

-       Lipgloss: Zuii Organic

-       Hair shampoo and condition: Everescents

-       Pilates class voucher: Kiralates

Now that my shop has been open for over two months I know it was the best decision I ever made. I have so many more brides coming into the store, I can take lots of dresses and I know that the brides are having a first class experience finding their designer dress without the price tag!

Photography by Photography by Nadean

Renovation photos by Mandy from Savvy Brides

Ms Gingham says: Congratulations to Mandy and everyone who helped put this fabulous event together. We wish you every success in the future and we are certain that all your hard work will pay off!

About Savvy Brides: Savvy Brides is a bridal boutique located in Double Bay sells pre-loved second hand, sample wedding dresses and affordable wedding gowns made by top bridal designers.

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If you are considering an overseas honeymoon destination, than look no further than Waikiki Beach in Hawaii’s capital city Honolulu. Romantic yet exuberant, Honolulu offers a little piece of America wrapped up in a surprising parcel of tropical excitement. It’s warm tranquil waters, near perfect temperatures and breathtaking natural scenery have regularly attracted many tourists, yet it’s the appealing blend of active volcanoes, adventure activities and amazing shopping experiences, which make Hawaii an essential must-see honeymoon destination.

Hawaii is one the youngest geological formations in the world, and is represented by six islands: Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui, and Hawaii’s Big island, the island of Oahu is where Hawaii’s capital city, Honolulu is located. Renowned for its first class surfing and home to one of the world’s most active volcanoes Hawaii’s vibrant attractions and unique landscape leave many visitors in awe, It is though, the warmth of the people and the “Aloha Spirit” which compels so many to embrace the Hawaiian people and their culture.

Things to do in Honolulu
Visit the island’s many tourist attractions including:
• The USS Arizona and USS Missouri memorials in Oahu’s Pearl Harbour
• The active Kilauea Volcano at the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on Hawaii’s Big Island
• The Honolulu Zoo (Images below).

Drive a convertible and check out the amazing scenery
Hire a convertible and enjoy the stunning scenery from Diamond Head. Its vantage point offers some incredible panoramas of Honolulu. Explore the off road paths and hidden hiking trails Hawaii has some of the best hiking trails surrounded by beautiful scenery. Get off the beaten path and discover Hawaii’s hidden gems and the charming local neighbourhoods, places you won’t find on a postcard, for a deeper understanding of the history of Hawaii.

Go Surfing
Experience the world-class surfing action Hawaii has to offer. Waikiki beach also promotes the hire of surfboards and provides lessons for the avid surfer enthusiast teaching the skills of surfing the waves of Hawaii.

Relax and be Pampered
Hilton Hawaiin Village boasts Mandara Spa, the largest spa in Waikiki, provides one of Hawaii’s most beautiful and complete spas. Be transported into a world of relaxation and rejuvenation with a host of spa treatments that incorporate Hawaiian, Asian, Western, European and Polynesian beauty and relaxation concepts. Discover a world of soothing treatments and rejuvenating therapies at our comprehensive Honolulu spa resort. Mandara Spa offers exquisite Balinese-style service, as well as Asian spices and oils for masques, scrubs, wraps and other treatments. This restful Waikiki Beach spa provides relaxing therapies sure to inspire pure contentment.

Shop til you drop!
If you do get tired of sipping cocktails by the beach or exploring the scenic paradise, there is of course the sensational shopping on offer. Hawaii has the world’s largest open-air shopping destination “Ala Moana”; with over 290 luxury brand name shops and local speciality stores. A haven for the shop-a-holic and an experience to remember, Honolulu offers some of the best shopping available. The main strip on Waikiki is lined with designer stores and exquisite shopping attractions and most shops trade until 11pm each night. Whether you spend days soaking up the sun and the amazing atmosphere on Waikiki Beach, or exploring the exhilarating shopping precincts and designer boutiques that line the streets, Hawaii will leave you wanting more, and once you visit you may find it hard to leave.

Where To Eat
Waikiki and downtown Honolulu is filled with an amazing array of sensational food offerings, a vibrant food scene with casual dining experiences and a relaxed atmosphere. The iconic Los Angeles originated restaurant ‘The Cheesecake Factory” is a must visit with an unlimited menu the restaurant offers generous size portions, inventive menu choices and a trademark cheesecake too good to miss. “The Californian Pizza Kitchen” in the centre of Waikiki translates America’s favourite flavours and tastes onto a sensational pizza crust; the result is a complete redefinition of America’s traditional concept of pizza. Thai, Greek and Japanese influences are present in the gourmet pizza selections combined with a tempting combination of traditional Italian pasta dishes. The American diner chain “I-Hop” is a must experience for the pancake lover, offering pancakes and crepes like you have never seen before. Endless plates of mouth watering buttermilk pancakes served with traditional maple syrup and fruit is pure delight and a taste sensation to die for.

When To Go
Anytime of year is a good time to visit Hawaii. Summer, between April and November, is warmer and drier (average temperature is 23-32˚C) while winter, between December and March, is a bit cooler (20-27˚C). Trade winds keep things comfortable all year round.

HISTORY
Over 1500 years ago, Polynesians from the Marquesas Islands first set foot on Hawaii’s Big Island. With only the stars to guide them, they miraculously sailed over 2000 miles in canoes to migrate to the Islands. 500 years later, settlers from Tahiti arrived, Hawaiian culture flourished over the following centuries and in 1778, Captain James Cook, landed on Kauai at Waimea Bay, naming the archipelago the “Sandwich Islands” in honour of the Earl of Sandwich. In 1820, the first Protestant Missionaries arrived on the Big Island and Hawaii became a port for seamen, traders, and whalers. Throughout these years of growth, western disease took a heavy toll on the native Hawaiian population. Western influence continued to grow and in 1893, American Colonists who controlled much of Hawaii’s economy overthrew the Hawaiian Kingdom in a peaceful, yet still controversial coup. In 1898, Hawaii became a territory of the United States. The Aloha State became the 50th State of the United States of America in 1955.

For further information on Hawaii visit Hawaii’s Official tourist information site www.gohawaii.com

Photography by Calli B Photography

Words by Terrianne Burns

Ms Gingham says: Oh how I love Hawaii and with the Australian dollar so strong at the moment there’s no better time to wax that surf board (not to mention other types of waxing) and get going!

About Calli: Calli moved from Brisbane to the Sunshine Coast and operated a home based photography business for a few years before moving into the boutique Maroochydore studio in 2008. Calli’s style of photography could be described as natural, candid and romantic. Calli has a beautiful daughter who she loves to spend her spare time with. Calli is a member of the Australian Institute of Professional Photography (AIPP).

Read more by Calli here.

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Tamar & Glen

There’s only one thing better than a country wedding and that’s a country wedding where the bride wore polka dots. Oh yes! Today’s wedding not only has the sweetest couple who embraced their wedding planning with the sweetest touches but oh my, Tamar’s tea length polka dot wedding dress? Well that, my friends, is deliciously divine.

Tamar tells their story. “Our paths first crossed quite a few years ago when we met through a guy that I was dating at the time. Years later, when we were both attending the same church, we hit it off. We got together only a month before I was leaving for London for a year, and Glen was also about to leave for the Philippines for a year to work with a mission organisation. So we spent our first year as a couple primarily on skype or the phone. I have to say it was a great way of really getting to know each other, because you’re forced to talk!”

Photography today was by Brooke Holm of Lace & Bowties. Brooke has captured such honest, beautiful photographs that really feel like the intimate beauty of the day. Tamar and Glen had a wedding movie shot by Chris Schoenmaker.

Tamar put together her own bouquet with the help of family members. Tamar explains ” My sister-in-law and I selected the flowers from the Rocklea Flower Markets and then my bridesmaids and sisters-in-law helped put the bouquets and table arrangements together the night before the wedding. ”

Tamar had her gown made by a dressmaker, who also made purple bridesmaids gowns for her.. She remarks “My dress was inspired by a wedding dress that Audrey Hepburn wore in Funny Face. I drew loose drawings and had it made by a dear old lady called Mrs Mabley.  The silk polka dot organza, and dupion silk were ordered from Gardams.” Tamar finished off her dress with a brooch from mysweetmuse.

Tamar and Glen chose  Henzell’s Chapel, Mt Pleasant for their wedding ceremony. Tamar remarks ” We couldn’t have asked for a more picturesque venue. We said our vows in Henzell’s Chapel, a sweet little stone chapel on private land that the family had built for their daughter to get married in 16 years ago. The property is so well maintained, and we enjoyed the sweet country air.”

Walking to the ceremony was one of Tamar’s favourite parts of the day . She explains “One of my favourite moments was walking along the grass with my parents on each arm, and as we reached the entrance to the chapel, our guests let out a big cheer! It was so spontaneous and natural, and it felt so wonderful that everyone had really come with a spirit of fun and joy.

I walked down the aisle to ‘Never Had Nobody Like You’ by M. Ward. This song instantly put a smile on everyone’s faces and set the tone for the day.” Tamar’s father, brother and friends all performed songs during the ceremony.

Tamar and Glen put special touches into their ceremony to celebrate their beliefs. Tamar explains ” During the ceremony, we washed each other’s feet as our first act as a married couple. It was probably the most moving part of the day. Oh the tears! For us, it was such a special way that we could imitate Jesus’ example of servanthood in our relationship. Glen and I really wanted our day to honour God and all that he has done in our lives, so we designed our ceremony in a way that reflected that. It was such a special time, and there were lots of tears (the good kind!) “

Tamar, a graphic designer loved the chance to be creative for herself. ” I am used to trying to please my clients, so it was lovely to finally be my own client and create things that only had to please us! Some of the things we made were the flower girls’ pin wheels, silk roses for hair clips and decorations, the bridesmaids corsages and clutch bags, invitations, and order of service fans. “

Guests were able to celebrate after the ceremony, Tamar notes “We really wanted the day to reflect us and not be traditional for tradition’s sake. We wanted the day to be relaxing and enjoyable for everyone, so we tried to design all the little details around that, for example we set up tea and scones and some picnic rugs at the ceremony venue so people could relax and put their feet up afterwards.”

One of Tamar’s favourite memories was seeing the day come together.  “I loved seeing all our hard work pay off, and watching everyone enjoy all the little details that we organised. It felt like such a reflection of us, and not just a copy and paste of other weddings. It was such a thrill hearing everyone talk about how much they enjoyed our day in the weeks and months afterwards. ”

Of their photographer, Brooke says “Our photographer Brooke Holm did such an amazing job. Brooke’s ability to capture the honesty of the day was outstanding. We’ve ended up with an album that sums up the emotion of the day so well.”

Tamar and Glen hired a vintage FJ Holden from FJ Classic Hire. Tamar recalls ” One of our favourite memories as a couple, is hanging out with the bridal party after our photos had been taken. There we were in the middle of nowhere, leaning on our gorgeous 1950’s FJ Holden and listening to some fantastic 1950’s music playing on a little stereo. We felt like we were back in the day!”

Tamar and Glen celebrated with guests at Mt Pleasant Community Hall. Tamar explains “Our reception was held in the community hall just down the road. We spent two days decorating the hall, and hanging lights. It was exhausting, but so so worth it.”

The tables were long. Tamar recalls “At the reception, we set up the tables in a big U shape which increased a sense of connection, and made it feel like a big communal feast.”

Tamar admits her biggest DIY project may have been a little ambitious. ” The craziest one – I whittled the little birds that sat on top of the cake. That alone took 2 days and my hands were so sore afterwards! My mum did an amazing job sewing the napkin rings and hessian table runners, and my mother-in-law lovingly sewed the order of service fans together.” The couple’s cupcake wedding cake was made by Coochie Cupcakes. “For dessert, we filled up a table with home-made sweet treats and put our cup cake tower in the middle. It was a feast for the eyes and our tummies! I wish I could go back in time and taste everything again.”

Guests dined on good, old fashioned, scrumptious food by Blue Banana Catering. “We had a relaxed gourmet BBQ for dinner, and Blue Banana hit the hungry spot! Their level of service was fantastic, and our guests were raving about their food.”

The couple hired swing jazz band The Calibre Cats. Tamar says ” They were SUCH a highlight of the day. We loved seeing everyone’s faces light up as they began to play. Their music is so contagious and full of joyful energy .One of my bridesmaids and her husband wrote such a fun song for us called “Collide”. We had been going to swing dance classes just before the wedding, so we pulled out a few moves (a little unco-ordinatedly) and danced along to it for our first dance.”

Congratulations Tamar and Glen! Thank you for sharing your wedding day with us on Polka Dot Bride! Thank you also to Brooke Holm of Lace & Bowties for sharing today’s images with us!

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To help you with your own Valentines Day plans, whether big or small, filled with sparkly objects or sugar laden goodies, I’ve come up with three gift guides to spark your imagination!

First up is stationery, because there is nothing more fun for me than choosing the perfect Valentine’s Day Card (or print!)

1. Butterflies: My Valentine Card from Kikki K 2. Love You The Longest of Time Letterpress Print from Bespoke Press 3. Love Ya Card from Little Jane St 4.  Like A Blank Loves Blank Card by The Hungry Workshop 5. Old Tom Foolery I Love Every Inch Of You Card from The Notemaker 6. Elvis Valentines Print from Raw Art Letterpress

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