While Sydney’s Botanic Garden may have provided a consistent, lush green backdrop for Phil and Lauren’s ceremony and reception, this couple still managed to keep their loved ones guessing. Opting for two distinct moods, Stylist Bree, of White Rabbit Projects, teased guests with whimsical, muted simplicity during the ceremony, only to switch gears with bold, bright and playful tones for the reception. Damien Milan Photography captured all the magical moments.

The Dress

Wanting her dress to be simple and classic, Lauren’s Alexandra Grecco dress was just that, despite a last-minute change of mind. “I was about to purchase a completely different dress but before I made the final decision, I pulled a few left-field styles off the rack to try,” explains Lauren. “When I put my dress on, I knew straight away it was the one. It suited my figure perfectly.” For a touch of ‘ethereal pizzazz’, Lauren added an sheer De La Rosa Bridal blouse during the reception.

Ceremony

Central, beautiful and in a relaxed setting, the couple say Lion Gate Lodge was the perfect venue for their I Dos. “As soon as we visited Lion Gate Lodge and saw the lush, English-style garden and glimpses of the harbour, we knew it was the perfect spot for our ceremony,” says Lauren. “Even though it’s in the middle of the Botanic Gardens, it still feels intimate and private.”

Photography

Lauren and Phil gave a special mention to their photographer, Damien Milan. “Phil and I are not ones to enjoy getting our photos taken but Damien and Nastia made it so easy and we loved hanging out with them! They are such pros and captured the entire event so beautifully and unobtrusively. We never felt like we had a camera stalking us.”

Flowers

Stealing the show, Florist Bess left Lauren and Phil in awe with her wild, sprawling floral displays which tied into both their themes seamlessly. “We had so many guests say they were the nicest flowers they’d ever seen at a wedding,” shares Lauren. “She also came back at the end of the night and wrapped up all the flowers – including those from the ceremony – and made beautiful arrangements for our guests to take home with them. I loved that none of the flowers went to waste and that everyone was able enjoy them at home.”

Reception

After deciding on the ceremony location, Lauren and Phil admit Botanic House was a natural choice. “We put a lot of emphasis on ensuring that our guests were able to sit back and enjoy themselves so finding a reception venue within walking distance was key,” says Lauren. Styling by White Rabbit Projects took inspiration from the Vietnamese menu, with its bold pops of colour, while making guests feel at home with warm lighting and yellow hues. The couple also wanted to mention their DJ, Martin Novosel, who they say went above and beyond to ensure everything was perfect.