While witnessing famous actor Will Smith board his speedboat on their wedding day was of course a highlight, Michelle says that wasn’t even the best bit.
Despite the exciting cameo, Michelle’s joy came from marrying her high school sweetheart Tom, 29, before 225 guests at their romantic Sydney wedding on January 13, 2018.
“We’ve been together since year 12,” Michelle, now 28, tells of their teen romance. The pair had been together 10 years when Michelle says Tom “finally” popped the question.
Wedding planning came naturally to Michelle, who knew she always wanted a beautiful summer wedding. “We took advantage of the long summer nights and low chance of rainfall and picked our date – almost six weeks before our 12-year anniversary,” she says.
But of course, no-one can truly predict the weather and Mother Nature had other plans with thunder storms forecast for the wedding day in the week leading up. “Luckily the storms held off and it was only very windy,” Michelle laughs.
The Sydney pair exchanged vows at Mary Immaculate Church in Waverly, NSW before heading to their reception at Le Montage. “When we first walked into the room, it was breathtaking,” Michelle says. “After almost 18 months of wedding planning, seeing all our vendors come together and pull off everything we envisioned was amazing.”
Photos courtesy of Passion Creations and Glenn Duffus Photography.
Michelle’s gorgeous makeup and classic bridal up-do was created by the team at Le Fabulous.
Michelle’s stunning two-in-one gown was made from scratch. “I spent three months searching for a gown and couldn’t find anything I loved. We designed a mermaid dress with a long train and a detachable full skirt that I wore for the ceremony and the photoshoot.”
A classic Rolls Royce from Weddings Cars Direct carted the pair to and from their photoshoot at The Rocks and the iconic Sydney Harbour.
Michelle discovered Naco from Cake Atelier while browsing Instagram, and says she was so helpful throughout the design process.
Chantelle Morrell, semifinalist on The Voice, headed Limited Edition Band as they rocked out at the wedding reception. “They were amazing,” Michelle says. “We received so many compliments on how great they were on the night.”
Michelle recommends other brides to stick to their guns while wedding planning. “Don’t be discouraged by other people’s opinions on how you should do things. It’s YOUR day, after all.”