From a land down under: Olivia and Tom’s English summer wedding

Long-distance relationships are a real test for couples – one that Olivia Rolfs and Thomas Parker passed with flying colours.

The pair found one another while 28-year-old Olivia was undertaking a working holiday in London. There she met Tom, a 27-year-old Englishman. “We lived together in London for two years, and I formed a wonderful relationship with his family and friends, before my visa expired and went back Melbourne,” explains Olivia. “We spent the next two years flying back and forth every few months, and although it was extremely hard at times, we maintained a strong, long distance relationship.”

During one of Tom’s adventures to Australia, he asked Olivia’s dad for her hand in marriage and with a nod of approval, they were engaged the following day. The bride’s family flew over to Goldalming, Surry for the English summer wedding. “It was so wonderful for our two extended families to meet, and to be a part of such a special day,” smiles Olivia.

Australian guests were treated to a little surprise at the church ceremony: “We walked out of the church to Men at Work’s ‘Down Under’,” laughs Olivia. They celebrated with a reception at Ramster Hall.

Her advice for brides-to-be? “Take as much time as you need getting down the aisle.”

Photos courtesy of Surrey Lane Photography.

“I was determined to have a Melbourne designer for my dress and fell in love with the designs by Anna Campbell,” says Olivia.

Tom went for traditional tails in navy blue by Ted Baker.

“I always look back on this day and it brings a smile to me face,” says Olivia.

Olivia’s aunty created the English-Australian bunting for the reception.