A story of patience, love and laughter | Tatra Receptions

For Elise and Steve, their story starts when they were 18. The two grew up in Bentleigh, Victoria and met at the Edgy in Mentone because of a mutual connection: Elise’s best friend. Years later, in 2017, they reconnected over Facebook. After months of going back and forth, they finally were able to lock in their first date at Little Tommy Tucker in Melbourne. There was undoubtedly a connection with the two getting kicked out so staff could close up shop. 

The Proposal

Like other date nights, Elise or Steve had to pick a restaurant and not tell the other person. However, on this particular evening, it was Steve’s turn. After they were ready, the couple was driving towards the city when Steve randomly stopped at the Botanical Gardens in St Kilda on Barkley St. Steve told Elise the restaurant was through the park. 

Elise passed a beautiful pergola covered in roses and noticed a photographer as they walked. She immediately started crying as she continued to walk toward the pergola. Once she reached the beautiful roses, there was a ‘Marry Me’ sign lit up on the ground. Surrounded by rose petals and candles, Steve got down on one knee. It was truly like out of a fairytale. 

The Preparation

In preparing for the big day, Elise and Steve had to reschedule several times, affecting their wedding plans and excitement. After all the disruptions, they really just wanted a day full of love, laughter and fun. But more than anything, the couple wanted the day to go ahead as planned.

The Ceremony at Tatra Receptions

Nestled amongst acres of gardens with soaring views of the Dandenong ranges, Elise and Steve tied the knot at Tatra Receptions under a beautifully wrought iron cupola laced with pastel roses. Guests arrived late afternoon to blue skies and the sun shining. After everyone was seated, Elise started to walk down the aisle, and there wasn’t a dry eye in the crowd. By 5 pm, the two were officially married and ready to celebrate with their friends and family. 

The Details

The theme for the wedding was elegant, romantic and garden-inspired. There were warmer champagne hues throughout the small details and elements of rustic Australia in the venue. The floral arrangements perfectly framed the bride and groom as they said I do and carried the guests into the reception for a night full of love and laughter. The wedding party was dressed in timeless attire with subtle touches like silk bowties and beautiful bouquets. But definitely, one of the most beautiful details was Elise’s wedding band – a slim gold band dotted with diamonds that paired perfectly with her engagement ring. 

Vendors who made this day possible:

Venue: Tatra Receptions | Florist: Millicent Green | Dress: Maggie Sotero Designs | Hair: Kxhairdesign | Makeup: Ellie Zucker | Videographer: True Story Wedding Films |  Music: LT Entertainment | Celebrant: Sam Lavery

Looking for a wedding photographer to capture your Tatra Receptions Wedding? Check if I’m available for your day here.

Xo, Sonya