A Picture Speaks…

A Darling Affair 03/04/2014 0 Comments

One picture is all that is needed to take your breath away.

A Darling Affairs photographers at The Wedding Fair had set ups with loads of images – not just one – on display of their past brides & grooms. They took our guests breath away that they had to stop for a minute and get it back.

It is an essential factor when choosing a photographer for your wedding day that you connect with the photographer and their images. Now it’s your turn to get a sneak peek and swoon over their displays and get a feel for their personalities through their shooting style.

Adam Ward Photography

Adam from Adam Ward Photography is a pleasure to be around. He has a soft natured personality and produces crisp, clean and refreshing images that evokes emotion.

Adam says, “When it comes to shooting you’re wedding, I want you to be able to enjoy the day with your friends and family in a natural and relaxed way, so for the most part, I’ll just let you do your thing and I’ll do mine. That way I can really tell the story of your wedding day.”

Josie Richardson Photography

Josie is sweet natured. She is experienced in both digital and film and it has really made her appreciate every shot, making her more skilled behind the camera.

Josie describes her style of being “predominantly documentary. I prefer images of people being themselves during a real and un-orchestrated moment. Most of us are not models or actors and so on, we are … everyday people.”

Josie is all about “the moment”…your moments through out your wedding day.

Prue Franzmann Photography

Prue has a fun personality. With her gorgeous smile and bright sparkly eyes she will win you over, so we can’t show a picture of you here otherwise we wouldn’t be fair to the other photographers and you’d book her straight away.

So we’ll just let her photography do the talking!

Figtree Pictures Wedding Photography

Soft, whimsical and natural is the words we would use to describe Kristy and they are the same words we’d use to describe her photography. Her camera and the way she see’s through it and captures images of her couples is an extension of herself. She is “obsessed with weddings” as she says herself.

Her display really speaks clearly of her wonderful photography.

When Elephant Met Zebra

Brian lives and breathes his photography. His branding represents himself and his wife: Brian the Elephant dreamer and Sheena the little Zebra. WEMZ is for wild, fun, romantic and creative souls. You will often see Brian taking on the character of a lion, climbing an object to get “the” shot.

Brian has a different edge to all his work and he is always up for anything, just you name it.

Head over here: https://adarlingaffair.com/gold-coast-directory/photography/

to link up to their websites.

ENJOY! xx

Images by: When Elephant Met Zebra

Stylin’ Stationery

A Darling Affair 25/03/2014 0 Comments

When we carefully selected our paper magicians for our recent Gold Coast Wedding Festival, they had to have originality in technique so we could fully give our brides and grooms inspiration and maybe even a invitation that they had never thought of before opening their eyes to the WOW factor!

Here’s a round up of the diverse styling/stationery these wonderful vendors put on show. If you see something you like contact them and say “i want that one!”

Sunshine & Confetti

They say “if it’s on paper we can do it!” and you better believe it. We have had the pleasure of working with this lovely lady on a shoot and if your looking for invitations to suit your “theme” Boom! She will knock your socks off! Oh and she also does wedding styling. Yep a lady who does it all!

Fox and Fallow

These guys are the creators of our awesome signage we have dotted around our fairs. “Creative Ink & Dust” is their tag line and the word creative is not to be used lightly when it comes to them. They are a husband and wife team and love oozes out from them onto the paper or boards they design for you. A class awesomeness at it’s best!

Peachy Flamingo

Who needs paper anyway when you can “totes” have a bag! This peachy keen lady prints on ANYTHING! Paper, fabric, awesome personalised cake toppers and wedding aisle backdrops. I’m sure if she was looking at your face she would love to print something on that too!

Kowhai Kreations

If you want a keepsake or a family heirloom this is your go to lady. Kowhai creates canvas prints for your wedding and more. A reminder for generations down the track…yes your babies and grand babies not just for your own home.

Birds of A Feather – A Letterpress Co.

Specialising in letterpress, a printing method where ink is literally pressed into paper using a heavy press. They do love their creative freedom and branch out to wooden invitations, albums and much more.

Be sure to pop over to their websites to research them more! We would but we’d be there for hours because of our stationery addiction!

Sunshine and Confetti – Fox and Fallow – Peachy Flamingo – Kowhai Kreations –Birds of a Feather

Images by: When Elephant Met Zebra

And that’s a wrap!

A Darling Affair 24/02/2014 5 Comments

Did you come to A Darling Affair – Gold Coast on Friday 21 February at Rabbit + Cocoon? If you did, then this news will be no surprise to you… but if you didn’t make it, then let me be the first to tell you how FREAKIN AWESOME it was! Seriously, we had the best and most amazing venue, vendors, models, and what a turnout!

Right from the beginning of the day when our vendors were putting in their hard yards setting up their incredible sites, the atmosphere was electric. We all knew something really special was about to go down. We had trucks, minivans, cars and caravans rocking up from 10am that morning and there were ladders, power tools, trolley’s and trailers filling up the amazing venue that is Rabbit & Cocoon.

Come 5 o’clock and we already had a line-up of people waiting for the gates to open. Our vendors had put the finishing touches on their incredible stalls and we opened the gates to get the party started! With a glass of bubbles or a beer in one hand and a totes-amazing A Darling Affair tote in the other (thanks Peachy Flamingo!), the crowds started visiting the stalls of more than 40 of the freshest and most creative wedding vendors on the scene at the moment. The crowds continued to flow through the gates all night.

Our awesome DJ, Aaron from Cut-A-Rug, provided the playlist for the evening and along with our live music acts including Sarah Head, the tone was set for a night of fun and frivolity!

Major highlights of the night included our four interactive fashion parades, made all the more enjoyable by our incredible models who were more than happy to join in the fun with the rest of our guests getting their pics snapped at our photo booths. Thanks again to The Brides Market, Begitta, Bohemian Brides, Urbanna, The Beauty Case, Elina Valttila and our super amazing models!

The piñata smash was another highlight of the night! Guests lined up to take a hit at the incredible piñata supplied by Party Pony.

And finally – the annual Dance Off was a huge success, with guests getting their dance on IN THE RAIN to win $300 off a DJ package with Cut-A-Rug.

By 10pm when we closed the gates, none of us could wipe the smile from our faces. The evening was a huge success and we had received so much amazing feedback from Brides and Vendors, without whom, this event wouldn’t have happened.

I’ve said it before, but I’ll say it again, we have the BEST vendors, venues, models and Brides any Darling could ask for… thank you for being so amazing!

To see a little video wrap up, check out this sweet little video from When Elephant Met Zebra: www.whenelephantmetzebra.com/ada

Thank you to the super talented When Elephant Met Zebra for all of our official event photos.

A MIXED BAG of Darlings

A Darling Affair 18/02/2014 0 Comments

WEDDING FLOWERS BY JULIA ROSE

A little bit about me, well to start with I LOVE my Job ! I am one of those lucky people who just adore what they do! Who wouldn’t love helping inspire people for momentous moments & Special Occasions in their life.
And doing it all with Exquisite Flowers and Beautiful Styling Props.

I love creating & designing Beautiful Pieces of Floral Art, for Weddings, Sweet & Simple…through to the Spectacular! Creating a Brides Vision of her Special Day.
Working with Event coordinators to help bring a Room, Marquee or Simple Area to life, filling it with Flowers helping to create an atmosphere which will relax, be-dazzle, Impress and Evokes Guests senses, Visually or Emotionally through Sweet perfumes.

ELYSSIUM BLOOMS

Elyssium Blooms is about design, love, passion, family and of course FLOWERS.

We are a small team of florists, providing specialist service within the Wedding and Event industry. We LOVE flowers and everything to do with them, and we are here to make your floral dreams come true. We don’t try and fit you into a “one size fits all” style wedding. Instead, we provide personalised service to create something seamless, unique and gorgeous for your special day.

Elyssium Blooms has a reputation for having the freshest flowers, creative new ideas, and a team of florists with a true passion for flowers and design. Creating beautiful bouquets, ceremony displays, draping garlands and reception flowers to take your breath away.

GRACE BIJOUX

Grace Bijoux is a boutique designer and manufacturer of individually crafted Headpieces, Body Chains, Body Armour , and Shoe Jewels. Also making statement necklaces, rings and many other unique jewellery pieces.

Grace Bijoux is based on the Gold Coast Australia and is a regular participant at the Village Markets, Bondi Markets and other specialised designer markets throughout Australia.

Lisa McDonald, the head designer (and model in many of the shots on the site) has clients throughout the world, including France, UK, USA.

Lisa started the business in 2012 after completing a silversmithing course in 2011 to realise her vision to individually craft stylish and affordable jewellery to the Australian and world fashion scenes.

Be sure to check out these super cool websites too!

www.gracebijoux.com.au | www.weddingflowersbyjuliarose.com | www.elyssiumblooms.com.au

Introducing our SPECIALITY VENDORS!

A Darling Affair 13/02/2014 0 Comments

PARTY PONY

In a nutshell, who are you and what do you do?

My name is Nicola; I operate Party Pony from my home based studio in Brisbane.

My main business is making bespoke pinata’s for Brides, professional stylists and DIY party stylists. I also make tassel garlands, balloon tails, bunting, custom confetti and feather crafts. Phew!

What is it about weddings that you love so much?

I love how modern weddings are a reflection of the couple and are often more of a party or holiday, than a formal event. Many Brides go with flowing, ethereal gowns and casual styling these days and that is so me .

If you were a colour, which colour would you be, and why? I am so pink, neon pink. I have no idea why! I am so pink, neon pink. I have no idea why!

MISS POPPINS

In a nutshell, who are you and what do you do?

Miss Poppins is a boutique nanny & babysitting agency, focused on providing a unique service for those couples who wish to have children be a part of their big day. From kids tables, to age-appropriate activities, games and off-site babysitting in hotels or homes. We are there to make sure that Mum & Dad enjoy the wedding, knowing that their children are being entertained and supervised by fully qualified nannies.

What is the most unique thing you’ve seen at a wedding?

The brides best friends performing one of her favourite songs for her and the groom. Three talented singers, an acoustic guitar, a violin, and a very emotional crowd.

What do you do in your free time?

Plan lots of exciting ideas for Miss Poppins, eat yummy food, explore and spend time with my wonderful boyfriend.

LOVE JAR CANDLES

We provide Pure + Natural Soy Candles to the Sunshine Coast/Brisbane/Gold Coast and Tweed Coast areas. They are eco-friendly & totally yummy (and will make your house smell amazing!)

WEDDING PLANNING PLAYBOOK

We’re the wedding blog and magazine for South East Queensland and Northern NSW couples offering fresh planning tips, tools and real weddings, a calendar of regional events and a selection of great local suppliers.

Happy planning!

For more information on these super special vendors, be sure to check out their websites:

www.partypony.net.au | www.misspoppins.com.au | www.facebook.com/lovejarcandles | www.weddingplanningplaybook.com.au

Introducing some more WHEELIE COOL vendors!

A Darling Affair 11/02/2014 0 Comments

OLIVE & CO.

In a nutshell, who are you and what do you do?

Olive is a travelling vintge café and bar who is endearing, delightful and sure to make your guests gush with her gorgeousness.

She is a 1950’s inspired, hand crafted, bondwood caravan and loves nothing more than to be a part of making happy memories. I am the Co. which makes up the Olive & Co.

What is it about weddings that you love so much?

I am a hopeless romantic and believe in a happily ever after. There is just nothing like a wedding to bring people together and the name of love and to restore our hope and faith in something that lies at the very core of every human being.

The world needs more love!

What do you do in your free time?

Give free hugs…

WINNIE COOPER

Winnie is a limited edition Roadhaven Van. There were only 200 vans ever made and Winnie is number 197. She was originally built in 1970 and has now been restored to her full glory! Winnie is a gorgeous girl and is available to hire for weddings, parties and fun times!

For more information on these gorgeous travelling vintage vans, check out their websites:

www.oliveandco.com.au | www.facebook.com/WinnieCooperVintageCaravan

Introducing our SWEET-TOOTHED DARLINGS!

A Darling Affair 10/02/2014 0 Comments

PERFECTLY SWEET

In a nut shell, who are you and what do you do.

Hi I’m Alicia from Perfectly Sweet and I specialise in creating a distinctively unique lolly and dessert buffet that is personalised to the theme, style and mood of your specific event.

We specialise in Weddings, Engagements, Birthdays, Baby Showers, Christenings, Kitchen Teas, Corporate Events, Product Launches or any special event. Whatever the occasion Perfectly Sweet can sugar coat your event and have your guest buzzing with excitement

What is it about weddings that you love so much

It’s such a special feeling being able to set up a buffet for someone’s wedding and seeing there reaction when they walk into the room. I love being able to be apart of someone’s special day and sweeting their event.

If you were a colour, which colour and why

YELLOW…… I love all things bright but yellow would best describe me. Bright, Crazy, Happy…..and a lot of fun!

REBELLYOUS CAKE CO.

My name is Rebel, I live with my family in the hills behind Byron Bay. I love the simple things in life, a cool breeze on a sunny day, crusty bread with freshly made soup and I LOVE to bake and decorate!

Rebellyous Cake Co was born out of a love baking and has grown into a business after many years of creating for family and friends. I only bake from scratch and use quality ingredients, I have a passion for what I do and this is what drives me to improve my skills with every cake I create.

SWEET RUBY ARTISAN CAKES

In a nutshell, who are you and what do you do?

I am a cake artist who makes wondrous edible centrepieces from the most delicious of ingredients. I transform the sweetest unexpected ideas into gorgeous, romantic, whimsical visions in cake.

What is the most unique thing you’ve seen at a wedding?

A marquee built over the swimming pool so it was transformed into a large bridge.

(Unfortunately the weight of the bridal table caused it to collapse.)

What do you do in your free time?

Dream up creative ideas; share them with my friends and family, play with recipes to create unusual edible art.

MILK AND SUGAR HIGH TEA EVENTS

What is it about weddings that you love so much?

The anticipation of the future. Families. Friends. Champagne and dancing. All polished off with the most delicious cup of tea you’ve ever tasted of course!

What is the most unique thing you’ve seen at a wedding?

Arial artists suspended from the ceiling on silks pouring champagne into the guest’s glasses. It was AMAZING!

What do you do in your free time?

When we aren’t busy with our high tea events we love searching for treasures in any place we can find them. We love op shops, garage sales, fetes, bazaars and salvage yards; there is no end of magical things you can find. Of course we also have to partake in “market research” so you might also find us sipping tea or coffee (yes, we also drink coffee) and sampling delicious sweet treats in our favourite little cafes or coffee houses.

For more information on these sweet-toothed vendors, check out their websites:

www.perfectlysweet.com.au | www.rebellyouscakeco.com.au | www.sweetrubycakes.com.au | www.milkandsugarevents.com

Vendor Info Evening… a little venue sneak peek…

A Darling Affair 01/02/2014 2 Comments

Hello Darlings!

On Friday 31 January, a lot of our amazing vendors made the trip to the incredible Rabbit and Cocoon to meet each other, and gather some info on how things will run at our fast approaching Wedding Festival (get your tickets here!).

When we saw the photos that Brian from When Elephant Met Zebra took on the night, we just HAD to share them with you.

Seriously… just look at how cool this venue is. We can’t wait to welcome you all on Friday 21 February… actually, we can hardly contain our excitement!!!

Introducing our STYLISTS!

A Darling Affair 21/01/2014 0 Comments

THE PALACE AND CO.

What is it about weddings that you love so much?

When we meet with our couples, listen to their ideas, throw in some of ours and together we create a KILLER unique wedding day.

What is the most unique thing you’ve seen at a wedding?

A ceremony that took place in a roundabout. Yes it was sort of a park, but it was still a roundabout. Absolutely unique!

What do you do in your free time?

Ha free time! We love what we do and we do what we love, so work and me time kind of happens all the time. Time with the family, gorgeous little nieces and nephews and quality time with friends is always a top priority though.

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THE COLLECTOR AND CO

In a nutshell, who are you and what do you do

The Collector and Co is a boutique wedding and event styling company who specialize in designing and producing timeless events tailored to your every need. We offer a unique range of furniture and props for your wedding, corporate or social event. Our vast collection of hire items offers varied styles from modern vintage, French country, rustic elegance to bohemian luxe. We are obsessed with the industry and love what we do!

What is the most unique thing you’ve seen at a wedding?

We came across an image of a barn wedding in France with the entire ceiling covered in lush foliage and vintage chandeliers. There wasn’t an inch left uncovered. It looked absolutely breathtaking.

If you were a colour, which colour would you be, and why?

We would be duckegg blue. This colour is one of trust, honesty and loyalty. It hates confrontation and likes to do things in its own way. From a colour psychology prospective, blue is responsible and reliable. It exhibits an inner security and confidence. You can rely on it to take control and do the right thing in difficult times.

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RETRO IN THE ROUGH

In a nutshell, who are you and what do you do?

Our passion is to bring a little retro to the everyday. To borrow, or to buy, retro in the rough offers an eclectic range of furniture, styling props, collectables and little retro oddities catering for all budgets. Whether it’s “that big special day”, your creative work day, or just a stock standard day, we have a handpicked selection of pieces, that are bound to enliven your home, event, or photo shoot.

What is it about weddings that you love so much?

As an interior designer I love nothing more than to throw around ideas with loved up couples on how we can help create a unique, hand crafted feel for their special day, that’s is anything but ordinary. The day is always filled with so much love and positive energy being shared by family and friends, and we just love being able to contribute to that.

If you were a colour, which colour would you be, and why?

Pantone 353….. haha no seriously there are so many beautiful colours in the world I couldn’t possibly narrow it down to just one!

LOVESTRUCK WEDDINGS

In a nutshell, who are you and what do you do?

Lovestruck is a hire and styling company catering to those who want something a little bit different. We have big pieces as well as lots of little touches to make your event special. We pride ourselves on trying to stay unique and have lots in store for 2014, so watch this space!

What is it about weddings that you love so much?

To me weddings are all about celebrating love and having a great shindig with friends and loved ones. Seriously, what’s better than that? It’s generally the one event in a couple’s life where they to go all out. And that doesn’t have to mean cost wise – it could be getting crafty and DIY. We love a good party. It’s such a fun time and shouldn’t ever be stressful!

If you were a colour, which colour would you be, and why?

This is almost impossible for me to choose! I like colours that have punch and make a statement. I’d try to convince you to let me be a colour combo, but if that doesn’t work I’d probably go for chartreuse or fuchsia.

For more inspiration, be sure to visit the websites of our darling stylists: www.thepalaceandco.com.au | www.thecollectorandco.com.au | www.retrointherough.com | www.lovestruckweddings.com.au

The Brides Market… a very cool concept!

A Darling Affair 03/12/2013 0 Comments

Last night, two thirds of the A Darling Affair team had the pleasure of seeing Brisbane’s newest bridal concept come to life in front of our eyes. The Brides Market is the vision of Jennifer Gifford (yep, the same talented lady who brings us those divine bridal gowns!) and is a bit of a one stop shop for brides. Our feedback from the evening? It’s AMAZING! This place is a must see for brides and vendors alike, there are separate sections of the store set aside to showcase different vendors, along with a gorgeous fitting room to try on some spectacular gowns and a really cool space for meetings.

This is a wonderful new way for brides to plan their special day and for vendors to showcase their work in a beautiful, creative retail space. Part bridal boutique, part wedding emporium and part industry hub in a seamlessly integrated space. It’s located on Logan Road in Woolloongabba which is a really cute precinct with lots of cool cafes and restaurants nearby.

It’s open every day, so you can pop in and look at all things pretty at a time that suits you, and if that wasn’t enough, they’re also hosting Sunday markets once a month and Thursday evening flower and food markets! We are in love. Do yourselves a favour darlings and check this one out.