Benn and Ellana: Family Ties
A romantic proposal on Christmas day came as a joyous surprise to Ellana, who accepted immediately on her favourite day of the year. In just a short month’s time, she and Benn tied the knot in front of their closest family and friends in the Hunter Valley.
“Emily is my lifelong friend and I first met her cousin Benn at her house on a cold and rainy day,” says Ellana of how she and Benn met. “We’ve been friends for 23 years and I’ve been to all the birthday parties and family functions but Benn and I had never met. The world really does work in mysterious ways and was obviously waiting for the right time for the two of us!”
Deciding on a wedding venue was easy — they would marry and celebrate at Stonehurst Cedar Creek. Fun, relaxed and carefree is the theme they were going for. “We went for a picnic-style setting,” explains Ellana. “We were married under the most beautiful, leafy trees and the guests were all given a picnic basket with locally sourced cheeses, crackers, quince paste and olives from the Hunter Valley.”
While summer decided to join in with a 42-degree scorcher, Ellana and Benn recall one particular standout moment. “We used our grandmothers as our witnesses instead of our matron of honour and best man,” says Ellana. “They are the last surviving grandparents for us on both sides and have both been monumental in our upbringing, so to have them there was such an important part of our special day.”
BRIDE’S GOWN Shazzam
BRIDE’S SHOES & JEWELLERY Mimco
BRIDESMAIDS’ DRESSES Bardot and Little Mistress
GROOM’S & GROOMSMEN’S SUITS Ken Lane Menswear
HAIR & MAKEUP Chic Artistry
PHOTOGRAPHY Popcorn Photography
STATIONERY Love Supply Co
FLOWERS & BONBONNIERE The Wedding Designer
ENTERTAINMENT Dave Wells and DJ Wombat
HONEYMOON Vietnam and Cambodia