Like many couples who became engaged in the last few years, there were many tough decisions for Natalie and James to make when it came to planning their big day. After two postponed Italian wedding dates, they came very – eye-wateringly – close to tying the knot in Australia. However, that was not the dream James and Natalie had in their hearts.
They held onto their dream. They waited until the world was more like it was when they first travelled to Puglia in Italy’s South, and fell head over heels in love with its enchanting beauty. It was due to this patience and perseverance, that Natalie and James were able to have the timeless, authentic Italian wedding they had never let go of. Check out all the details of their wedding day on One Fine Day.
THE PROPOSAL //
James proposed in July 2019, as part of my 30th birthday celebrations while we were living in London. He took me to a garden off Regent’s Park called St John’s Lodge. It was once a private residence, but is now a gated flower garden for the public to enjoy. There were only women with sketch pads around at the time. After he proposed, we had lunch at our favourite Italian restaurant called The River Cafe, followed by a surprise dinner for my birthday with our closest friends and family. Little did they know, we had a surprise for them too. James watched his plan play out perfectly. We celebrated and then called those who couldn’t be there in person. It was incredible.
The Most Memorable Moment //
When James and I wandered around a nearby town called Fasano, after our first look before the celebrations began. It was 3pm in the afternoon and during riposo, an Italian siesta. It felt as though we had the town to ourselves. Another moment was during cocktail hour, when we first greeted all of our guests. Over 70 friends and family travelled from over 8 countries to be there with us. It was the first time our loved ones were in the same place, at the same time, so celebrating with them all was a really surreal and special memory.
THE VISION //
A warm, intimate and memorable experience. Understated and timeless styling. Authentic Italian touches.
YOUR DAY IN YOUR WORDS //
Our wedding took place on the 30th of August 2022 in Puglia, Italy, at Masseria San Nicola, a historic 17th century private residence. The ceremony took place in the garden of the masseria, which was filled with citrus and bougainvillaea trees. Cocktail hour was hosted until sunset, with a live singer and acoustic guitarist. Gates to the main courtyard then opened, inviting guests to enjoy antipasti from meat, cheese and seafood food corners. This was followed by a reception dinner with local Puglian cuisine and speeches from family and the bridal party. Guests then returned to the garden, for dancing until the early morning.
THE ADVICE THEY’D GIVE TO ANOTHER COUPLE //
Don’t be afraid to ask for what you really want. In the three years that we waited to get married, we became easily swayed by what was easier and more convenient. We came close to having a wedding closer to home, however deep down, we knew this wasn’t what we wanted, so we waited for a more ‘COVID-free’ world. The extra time also meant that we could secure our favourite suppliers, who were such experts in their craft and made the day completely effortless for us. They were the ones who brought our dream into reality.
THE DRESS //
First look: Darb Bridal Couture
Second look: Elizabeth Fillmore
THE VENUE //
Masseria San Nicola, Puglia, Italy
THE CREDITS //
Photographer // Colin Ross
Videographer // Moon & Back
Flowers // Fluida Design
Catering// Il Fagiano
Hair // Yana Rybalko
Make Up // Yana Rybalko
Invitations // Kate Porter
Suits // P Johnson
Celebrant // Olivia Mackinnon Celebrant
BY OLIVIA MACKINNON
//
EDITOR OF ONE FINE DAY
