Claire and Bernie’s rustic winery wedding was nothing short of stunning! While the weather was not in their favour on the big day, it ended up making for a magical celebration, one that the bride describes as “the perfect storm.” Keep reading to learn more about Claire and Bernie’s big day.
About Claire & Bernie
Claire Giddings and Bernard Maywood are both paramedics who first met after being rostered together. Flash forward to March 2018 when the couple were on vacation in Aruba. Bernie got down on one knee and proposed to Claire while they were visiting the famous Flamingo Beach.
A Stormy Day at Acacia Ridge Winery Yarra Glen
Claire and Bernie tied the knot in a rustic-chic affair at Acacia Ridge Winery in Australia’s breathtaking Yarra Valley. The couple knew it was the perfect venue the moment they drove into the parking lot. To complement the venue, they chose rustic floral and decor in the form of fairy lights, Hessian table runners, and wooden laser cut place cards. Even their country lace invitations from Giant Invitations reflected the rustic feel of the day. Although not everything went according to plan (such as the weather – there were thunderstorms all day long!), Claire and Bernie wouldn’t have changed a thing.
The Bridal Look
Claire wanted a gown that was fun and elegant, and she found just that! For her special day, Claire donned a fit and flare gown from Melbourne-based designer Anna Campbell. The dress was embellished with 3-D florals and a silk belt. She finished off the look by carrying a unique bouquet containing king proteas, black roses, and wild blackberries.
Personalized Touches
As a nod to their flamingo-filled engagement in Aruba, Claire and Bernie named their welcome cocktail “The Flamingo Spritz” and had flamingo-shaped toppers in each drink. Individual succulent plants grown by the bride’s mother served as wedding favours, which added a special touch to their wedding. The happy couple also opted to sign their marriage certificate with a trout-shaped pen that Bernie won on one of their first dates.
The Unconventional Cake
Instead of opting for a traditional wedding cake, the couple settled on a three-tier “cake” made out of their favourite types of cheeses. The cheese tower was made up of five different kinds of cheese: D’affinois French Brie, Maffra Black Cloth Cheddar, Irish Cashel Blue, Brilliant Savarin Triple Cream Brie, and Manchego. Fresh figs and dates finished off the decadent treat.
Advice to Brides
The main piece of advice Claire has for brides is not to sweat the small stuff. Some of her and Bernie’s favourite moments ended up happening when things didn’t go exactly to plan. She also urges brides-to-be not to worry about factors out of their control, such as weather.
Special thanks to vendors:
Wedding Invitations: Giant Invitations
Dress: Anna Campbell Lexi Elm
Veil: Anna Campbell Zara Chapel length veil
Makeup: Melonie Santos
Hair: Diane Robertson
Shoes: Nine West
Accessories: Anna Campbell Natalia earings
Bridesmaids Dresses: Forever New
Cake: Bill’s Farm cheese tower
Food: Locavore
Flowers: Valley Blooms
Photographer: Love and Other
Ceremony & Reception Venue: Acacia Ridge Winery Yarra Glen
Entertainment: Gary Eastwood and band, Nick kay magic (MC and magician)
Celebrant: Paul Bonadio
Transport: Fisch Kombi
Wedding Favours: Homegrown succulents put together by the bride’s mother
Interested in more? Read other real weddings:
Katy & Ben’s Perfect Barn Wedding at The Oak Tree of Peover
Elegant Wedding of Marah & Allan featuring Justin Alexander Gown
