Gemma & Michael’s Glam Substation Wedding

Words by Hannah Pronesti / Images by Lara Luz
April 25, 2016

The Substation in Newport always guarantees a good time – something Michael and Gemma recently found out first-hand. The pair aimed for a fun, relaxed wedding and judging by these atmospheric frames by Lara Luz, they found the perfect balance.

If a Christmas and New Year’s spent in New York City wasn’t magical enough, Michael took it up a notch by popping the question over a Michelin Star lunch by Central Park. “Part of the lunch included endless champagne, “ Michael tell us, “I was very nervous, and with lots of smiling and laughter I managed to propose!” Gemma agreed of course, and the rest is history!

With a venue as impressive as The Substation, there was little need for decoration. Stunning flowers were a given (Gemma’s mum is a florist) but according to the couple, their main focus was elsewhere. “We wanted a really good band and plenty of food and wine, making sure everyone would have a really fun night. We didn’t have a theme in the end, but I guess it was relaxed and a little glamorous.”

Having the whole day in the one place meant a seamless transition from ceremony to party-mode, “It worked really well.” Gemma tells us. “As soon as Jon Von Goes (our celebrant) said we were married and our lips touched, the band kicked in with The Kinks – ‘You Really Got Me’, and everyone cheered and hugged! It was a great moment!”

Newport Substation wedding -  Lara Luz photography Newport Substation wedding -  Lara Luz photography Newport Substation wedding -  Lara Luz photography Newport Substation wedding -  Lara Luz photography Newport Substation wedding -  Lara Luz photography
Gemma wasn’t afraid to be unconventional and her Carla Zampatti high-low hemline dress is proof! Paired with some comfy Jo Mercer flats, an embellished Elly Lou necklace and elegant up-do by Tracie Weaver, this bride was ready to par-tay.
Newport Substation wedding -  Lara Luz photography Newport Substation wedding -  Lara Luz photography Newport Substation wedding -  Lara Luz photography Newport Substation wedding -  Lara Luz photography Newport Substation wedding -  Lara Luz photography Newport Substation wedding -  Lara Luz photography
With a florist mum and an uncle working at the fresh produce market, this happy couple kept it in the family when it came to their wedding flowers. “We had loose arrangements on the tables, some large suspended bouquets and floral installations in copper baskets placed around."
Newport Substation wedding -  Lara Luz photography
Newport Substation wedding –  Lara Luz photography
Newport Substation wedding –  Lara Luz photography
Newport Substation wedding -  Lara Luz photography Newport Substation wedding -  Lara Luz photography Newport Substation wedding -  Lara Luz photography Newport Substation wedding -  Lara Luz photography Jon Von Goes Melbourne celebrant
This pair were pleased as punch with their ceremony - in particular, their celebrant Jon Von Goes, who has earned legendary status in their eyes. “He really set the tone perfectly for our night and was fun and relaxed but didn’t hold back on the heart strings - just wonderful!” Says Gemma.
Newport Substation wedding -  Lara Luz photography Newport Substation wedding -  Lara Luz photography Newport Substation wedding -  Lara Luz photography Newport Substation wedding -  Lara Luz photography Newport Substation wedding -  Lara Luz photography Newport Substation wedding -  Lara Luz photography Newport Substation wedding -  Lara Luz photography Newport Substation wedding -  Lara Luz photography Newport Substation wedding -  Lara Luz photography Newport Substation wedding -  Lara Luz photography Newport Substation wedding -  Lara Luz photography
Food-wise, Ed Dixon dished up some real winners and Gemma perfectly sums up the service in one sentence – “Everyone’s glasses were constantly full, as well as their stomachs.” The sign of a good night, we say!
Newport Substation wedding -  Lara Luz photography
Lara Luz worked her usual magic and this pair are full of praise for the Melbourne photographer. "Amazing – everyone should use her!" Says Gemma. "I can’t say enough good things about both Lara and Pae, they were a huge part of making our day as special as it was."
Newport Substation wedding -  Lara Luz photography Newport Substation wedding -  Lara Luz photography Newport Substation wedding -  Lara Luz photography Newport Substation wedding -  Lara Luz photography

Credits

Images Lara Luz | Bride's Dress Carla Zampatti | Bride's Shoes Joanne Mercer | Bridesmaid's Dresses Willow | Groom's Suit Bell and Barnett | Rings Satomi Kawakita | Accessories Elly Lou necklace | Hair Tracie Weaver | Makeup Tracie Weaver | Ceremony Venue The Substation | Celebrant John Von Goes | Reception Venue The Substation | Catering Ed Dixon | Entertainment Lark Music | Stationery/Invitations Emily Lau | Entertainment Dale Winters | Cake Burch and Purchese | Sketch Artist Jeffrey Phillips |


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