Kristen & Tom’s Modern Romantic Wedding

Kristen and Tom’s Modern Romantic Wedding | Tim Coulson

An island escape and a rush to catch the sunset culminated in an emotional proposal – but only after Kristen finished taking in the view and realised what was happening! This lovely couple chose an historic estate to play host to their ceremony, reception and accommodation, planning their modern romantic wedding in a chic palette of green, white and grey.

The guest experience was front and centre, with live entertainment setting the tone and filling the dancefloor late into the night. With doughnuts a regular weekend treat for the pair, it made perfect sense to finish with a fabulous display for dessert! 

Kristen and Tom’s Modern Romantic Wedding | Tim CoulsonKristen and Tom’s Modern Romantic Wedding | Tim CoulsonKristen and Tom’s Modern Romantic Wedding | Tim Coulson

The Planning Experience

“It was pretty full on considering we only had five months – I definitely wouldn’t change that though as I loved all the planning. The only thing we struggled with was locking in our preferred vendors for a Saturday wedding, so we decided to make it Friday instead!

I can imagine if I had more time to plan I would have changed my mind about things a hundred times over. Once I made a decision about something I just had to go with it which worked well for us.”

Kristen and Tom’s Modern Romantic Wedding | Tim Coulson Kristen and Tom’s Modern Romantic Wedding | Tim Coulson Kristen and Tom’s Modern Romantic Wedding | Tim Coulson Kristen and Tom’s Modern Romantic Wedding | Tim Coulson

The Ceremony

“We didn’t want to take away from the gorgeous grounds and scenery too much. Having said that we had a striking floral arrangement where we exchanged vows. We felt extremely lucky to have one of our best friends marry us. It made it extra special.”

Kristen and Tom’s Modern Romantic Wedding | Tim CoulsonKristen and Tom’s Modern Romantic Wedding | Tim CoulsonKristen and Tom’s Modern Romantic Wedding | Tim Coulson

The Bridal Party

“I was looking for outfits my ladies would wear again to the races or a girl’s night. I wanted white because I felt it was a good match for the boy’s suits. I found a few different styles and asked them to select their favourite – they all ended up choosing the same dress!

Tom had a clear idea of what he wanted his suit to be the day after we were engaged. He found a jacket and chinos on Pinterest and then took his groomsmen shopping. I was thrilled with how they came together on the day.”

Kristen and Tom’s Modern Romantic Wedding | Tim CoulsonKristen and Tom’s Modern Romantic Wedding | Tim Coulson

The Dress

“I had a bit of trouble finding my dress, partly because of time constraints and partly because I had in my head that I wanted a long sleeved lace dress. I tried on quite a few but they just didn’t suit me – once I realised I needed be open to different styles, I had a bit more luck. I felt pressured and still hadn’t found “The One” so I visited a local designer. She was amazing and I was surprised I ended up landing on a strapless dress but I loved it!”

Kristen and Tom’s Modern Romantic Wedding | Tim Coulson Kristen and Tom’s Modern Romantic Wedding | Tim CoulsonKristen and Tom’s Modern Romantic Wedding | Tim Coulson

Reception Styling

“The beautiful marquee spoke for itself and didn’t need to be over styled. Our vision was romance with a contemporary edge – clean lines, modern textures and elements of timber and greenery with a classic palette of greys and whites.”

Kristen and Tom’s Modern Romantic Wedding | Tim CoulsonKristen and Tom’s Modern Romantic Wedding | Tim CoulsonKristen and Tom’s Modern Romantic Wedding | Tim Coulson Kristen and Tom’s Modern Romantic Wedding | Tim Coulson

Meaningful Music

“We had amazing live music for the ceremony and drinks. For the reception we had we had a ridiculously fun band that had everyone dancing. I felt like we didn’t leave the dancefloor. We had so many comments about the entertainment – it was such a relaxed and fun day and the music played a big part in creating this atmosphere.”

Processional: ‘Adore’ by Amy Shark

Signing: ‘I Love You Always Forever’ by Donna Lewis

Recessional: ‘Love On Top’ – Beyonce

Reception Entrance: ‘Good Life’ by Kanye West

First Dance: ‘Latch’ by Disclosure feat. Sam Smith

Kristen and Tom’s Modern Romantic Wedding | Tim CoulsonKristen and Tom’s Modern Romantic Wedding | Tim Coulson Kristen and Tom’s Modern Romantic Wedding | Tim Coulson

Best Advice

“My husband told me that when I walked down the aisle he just wanted to see me. Stay true to your style and don’t overcomplicate your look. Remember he loves you and wants to marry what’s on the inside, not the dress, makeup and hair. Also, don’t get stuck on a certain style of dress you think you have to have! Your body type may have different ideas.

There are so many details that may feel like they matter but in the end they definitely don’t! Focus on the fact that you’re marrying the love of your life, not the table numbers and place cards. It’s such a magical day that goes by too fast – live in the moment and cherish every second.”

Kristen and Tom’s Modern Romantic Wedding | Tim CoulsonKristen and Tom’s Modern Romantic Wedding | Tim CoulsonKristen and Tom’s Modern Romantic Wedding | Tim Coulson

Location: New South Wales | Photography: Tim Coulson | Ceremony & Reception: Wallalong House | Officiant: Sarah Carmody | Styling: White Roses Styling | Flowers: Botanica Bird | Stationery: Paper Plum Co. | Signage: Willow and Ink | Entertainment: Beth Gleeson (Ceremony) & Jerome O’Connor & Master Blaster (Reception) | Transport: Rover Coaches | Wedding Dress: Designs by Melanie Ford | Earrings: Lucy Folk | Shoes: Valentino | Bridesmaid Dresses: Maurie and Eve | Hair: Koko Hair | Makeup: Chic Artistry | Suits: Calibre & Peter Jackson (Jacket) | Rings: Natalie Marie Jewellery

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