NAME

Georgia Hayes

WEDDING DATE

15 February 2025

LOCATION

Hunter Valley, New South Wales

YOUR LOVE STORY

Max and I met on a Summer evening in 2019, at the Esplanade Hotel. From across the courtyard our eyes locked, and in that instant, it felt like I had known him forever. This quickly escalated into our first proper date at Marion Wine Bar only several days later. It was perfect, and by the time two weeks had passed, we had confessed our love for each other.

The night we met, Max had mentioned that he had plans in place to move to America for 18-months. This hurt as I felt this was too good to be true. In the middle of the night on our first and probably last holiday together, Max made the life-changing decision to cancel his plans to move overseas without consult from his parents or friends and to instead stay in Melbourne.

Soon after, came the proposal - we arrived in Positano on the fifth week of our European holiday. One afternoon, we sailed out to watch the sunset. As we made our way back to Positano, Max asked me to be his forever. We ran back to our hotel like kids, eager to freshen up before heading to Le Sirenuse Hotel, where we could take in the gravity of our commitment to each other. Afterward, we FaceTimed our friends and families to share the news. For the next three days, we celebrated with all our loved ones in Italy, feeling on top of the world. That feeling of joy, excitement and love will stay with me forever.

FINDING YOUR DRESS

The moment I walked into KYHAs Melbourne showroom, a sense of calm washed over me, and I just knew I had found the place where I'd discover my dream gown. I had created a mood board based on my previous fittings, reflecting the vision I hoped to bring to life with Kyha. We discussed every detail meticulously, and with ease, Kyha hand drew my perfect gown- Winton. Winton was crafted with so much love, and I truly believe it is the perfect blend of timeless elegance and edgy sophistication for the modern bride. For my second look, I wanted something that felt sexy, comfortable, and subtly romantic and this gown delivered on all fronts. With its low plunge back, draped lace details, deep neckline, and striking slit, it was everything I had envisioned.

THE NON-NEGOTIABLES

My non-negotiables when searching for my gown were simple - I wanted the process to be fun, and Kyha Studios made that effortless. Planning a wedding can often take over your life, like a full-time job filled with stress and high expectations. But I truly believe that finding your dream gown should be a joyful, stress-free experience. Kyha and her team welcomed my bridal party and mum with open arms, and together we savoured every moment of each appointment, making the most of this special time.

A HIGHLIGHT FROM THE DAY

There are so many unforgettable moments from our wedding, it truly felt like we were living out a romantic comedy. If I had to choose just one highlight, it would be walking into our reception in my second gown, overwhelmed by every emotion possible. I galloped into our Hampton marquee-style wedding, tambourine in hand and Max's hand in the other, to the sound of Young Hearts Run Free. Once we hit the dance floor with our bridal party, our DJ played 'Freed from Desire' while our incredible saxophonist added an extra touch of magic. Surrounding us were 110 gues with their tambourines, Aperol Spritz's, and napkins in hand, all singing their hearts out. That moment is one we will both cherish forever.

A WORD OF ADVICE FOR BRIDES TO BE

Surround yourself with a team you trust and be open to accepting help. On my wedding morning and throughout the day, I felt completely calm and in control, and thats all thanks to the incredible vendors who supported us. I had full confidence in each one, which allowed me to relax and fully embrace every emotion and moment without worrying about the finer details. We got married in the Hunter Valley, and although I'm from Melbourne, I did extensive research on local vendors, ultimately finding the perfect team. Lastly, if you truly want to relax and soak in every moment of your day, investing in a Wedding Planner and Stylist is absolutely worth every cent.

THE DETAILS

Shoes: Revolve, LPA & Jimmy Choo

Makeup: Caragh Hayes Makeup

Hair: Deelush Hair

Wedding Planner & Stylist: Your Day By Chloe

Venue: Redleaf Wollombi

Florist: Bold and Blooming - Gabby

Photographer: Bianca Virtue Weddings

Videographer: Sommar Films

Celebrant & Content: Aniella Batten

Catering: Ciao Pepis

Cake: The Cake Club (my sister Liv - all the way from Melbourne)

Stationary: Alex One Mimosa Please