Inside Lori McKenzie’s fairy tale wedding

When did you know you wanted to spend the rest of your lives together?

“We knew we wanted to spend the rest of our lives together when Frazer got down on one knee, overlooking the sunset in Santorini after we had been travelling the world together for nine months. After 10 amazing years together, it was about time.”

 

How did you approach planning the wedding?

“Our approach to planning the wedding was me (a very structured and organised Virgo) handling it all, while Frazer (a relaxed Sagittarius) does what he does best and goes with the flow.”

 

Please share the journey to finding your dream dress

“My wedding dress journey felt quick, but it was an amazing feeling finding the right dress. We decided in April 2021 that we would get married in August 2021. So, a dress was the first thing in my list. I didn’t want to overwhelm myself, so I went to just two different designers, trying on a total of about 15 gowns. I was open to all styling which I think is important, but at the end of the day I went with the dress I felt the most amazing in.”

 

What was your bridal beauty look?

“My inspiration for my hair and make-up was me! I wanted to look like me, I didn’t want my make-up heavy or my hair a style that wasn’t something I would usually do. I wanted to look like a polished version of myself — natural waves, natural make-up, enhancing my features.”

 

What were the standout styling details on the day?

“I absolutely loved our colourful floral palette! This was a last-minute change from white florals and I’m so happy I made the change. We were married in the garden so clear plinths at the altar allowed for no obstruction of the gorgeous scenery. Another personal touch I loved was the personalised menus and guests’ gifts — subtle but a lovely touch.”

 

Style note: To get ready the bride wore our Ingrid Bodysuit in white and romantic Farrah Long Lace Chiffon Robe. Lori's bridesmaids wore matching Homebodii Jasmine Robes in blush satin.

 

A word of advice for brides-to-be:

“Take a moment for you and your handsome groom on the wedding day.

Give yourself time to get ready and don’t stress the little things!”

What were the most memorable moments?

“Looking back on the day we are so glad that we took a moment to ourselves! We walked outside and looked back at everyone we love and adore enjoying the night we had created. We stood outside looking up at the stars and shared a special moment to ourselves.”

 

What was the biggest surprise on the day?

“The most unexpected part of the day was being ready really early! We were two hours ahead of time. It was really nice to have a moment with my bridesmaids and not feel stressed or rushed. We had some mimosas, put on some music and had a dance to calm the nerves.”

 

When you look back on the day now, how do you feel?

“When I look back on the day now I feel so much happiness, when we received the sneak peek of our photos we relived the day all over again — I would not change a thing.”

 

Who helped bring your special day together?

“All of my vendors were exceptional!!!

The Valley Estate: venue and wedding coordinator

Event Stylist & Co: event stylist and Coordinator

KYHA Studios: gowns

Megan Kelly: photographer

Luka Film: videography

Sunday Nude: stationery

Gloriosa Florals: flowers

Kim Eaton: celebrant

Levi Birks: entertainment (DJ)

Reanin Glah: hair and make-up

Holly Frazer: hair change and make-up touch up

 

What did you love about your venue?

“It was perfect!!! Incredible as a one-stop venue. Both bride and groom get ready there, you have endless option for ceremony location with nine acres of stunning gardens to choose from and a gorgeous guest house on the property where you can stay there post-wedding.”