A Melbourne warehouse wedding with a 1930s Hollywood twist, Philip and Allanah wanted all the elements of an old-world glam affair while remaining modern. Married at industrial restaurant Rupert, featuring an indoor garden, quirky vintage furniture, moody colours and warm lighting, the space was a perfect choice to entwine both themes. Paired with the timeless work of Photographers Damien Milan and Nastia, imagery from the day feels straight out of an old, classic film but with hints of Melbournian flair.

Damien Milan Photography

Philip and Allanah couldn’t say enough about their photographers Damien Milan and Nastia, who they say captured their I Dos just how they wanted, while also being lovely as people. “Our photographer Damien Milan and his wife Nastia were the perfect fit, they captured the day with a timeless perspective focussing on the little candid moments, exactly as we hoped,” the couple tells us.

The Ceremony at Rupert

While initially planning their nuptials by the water in Phil’s hometown of Sydney (cancelled due to COVID-19), the couple say they are glad they moved their wedding to Melbourne instead. “We realised planning a wedding closer to home was going to be the safest bet given the uncertain times, we actually think it turned out better,” the couple admits. Wanting to avoid a typical vineyard wedding but still wanting lots of greenery, Rupert was a natural choice. “We loved the idea of lush greenery set in an industrial warehouse, so when we found ourselves re-planning our wedding locally, it was the obvious choice,” they tell us. Under Aster + Wilde‘s stunning floral installation, the couple say Celebrant and friend Josh Wood made their I Dos feel genuine and special. “It was full of laughter, jazz hands and warmth amongst 80 of our close friends and family,” says the couple.

Flowers by Aster + Wilde

Handing total creative freedom over to their friends and florists Aster + Wilde, Steph and Szymon dreamed up romantic bunches of deep reds, soft pinks and toffees which worked perfectly with the moody-romantic vibe of the day. “We were blown away with their spectacular creations,” the couple tells us. As a something borrowed detail, Allanah’s mother’s wedding day earrings were incorporated into the bridal bouquet for an extra special touch.

Bride’s Georgia Young Dress and Groom’s P. Johnson Suit

Bringing her Old Hollywood theme to the forefront, Allanah wore a white gown with a one-shoulder detail by Melbourne wedding dress designer Georgia Young with her hair swept up in a chic bun thanks to Hermiz Daniel. To complete the look, she accessorised with a floor-length veil, statement A.B. Ellie earrings and Bared Footwear points. “Not only did the dress look gorgeous, it felt so lovely to wear, and was the perfect combination of Old Hollywood glam with a modern twist,” describes Allanah. Phil on the other hand had always dreamed of having a tailored suit from P. Johnson and went with an off-white jacket as his point of difference.

The Reception at Rupert’s Restaurant

Described as heartfelt and fun, the reception at Rupert’s restaurant featured communal tables, shared feasting platters, and dim lighting, reminiscent of a warm, intimate dinner rather than a traditional wedding reception. “The venue’s owner made us feel so welcome and the rest of the staff were wonderful to work with,” the couple say. “It was the perfect venue for an intimate, relaxed celebration.” A highlight of the night, Phil and Allanah tell us their band Fade to Black got everyone dancing and received many compliments from their guests. “We had never seen them perform live before the day due to all of the lockdowns, but they killed it with their soulful, funky vibes,” says the couple. Ending the night with a bang, impromptu games and a sparkler send-off cemented the night as one they’ll never forget!

The Couple’s Advice

“Don’t organise a wedding during a pandemic,” the couple joke. “No, in all seriousness, invest in the things that are important to you – for us, that was our photographer, flowers and music. Hire a live band if you have the chance – they are worth every cent. Finally, don’t sweat the small stuff, remember the reasons why you are getting married and just enjoy the day,” the couple leave.