lovestruck by salt magazine - summer 14.15

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A WEDDING FEATURE WITH SUMMER ’14/15 IMAGE COURTESY OF LAUREN CAMPBELL, LAURENCAMPBELL.COM.AU 64 KEEPING IT REAL Kelsey and Chris Azzarello’s wedding grew out of a birthday surprise. 70 FOR BETTER OR FOR WORSE Arthur and Betty Bluett’s long marriage has been peppered with golf, ice cream and humour. 72 TO HAVE AND TO HOLD Fashionable, must-have products for the loved up. 76 MAGIC MAKER Erin Clare Oberem creates wearable works of art in her studio. 64 SALT

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Transcript of lovestruck by salt magazine - summer 14.15

Page 1: lovestruck by salt magazine - summer 14.15

A WEDDING FEATURE WITH SUMMER ’14/15

IMAGE COURTESY OF LAUREN CAMPBELL, LAURENCAMPBELL.COM.AU

64 KEEPING IT REAL Kelsey and Chris Azzarello’s wedding grew out of a birthday surprise. 70 FOR BETTER OR FOR WORSE Arthur and Betty Bluett’s long marriage has been peppered with golf, ice cream and humour. 72 TO HAVE AND TO HOLD Fashionable, must-have products for the loved up. 76 MAGIC MAKER Erin Clare Oberem creates wearable works of art in her studio.

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KEEPING IT REAL

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IMAGES COURTESY OF KAREN BUCKLE PHOTOGRAPHY KARENBUCKLE.COM

Birthday led to WeddingKelsey Flint

& Chris Azzarello

30 August 2014

WORDS LUCY EMLYN-JONES

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KELSEY FLINT HAD an uninterrupted, breathtaking view of the Glass House Mountains as she walked down the aisle of Tiffany’s Wedding Chapel. However, the beautiful bride only had eyes for the man standing before her – his eyes welling, overflowing with love for the vision in white before him.

“That was the most special moment, Chris crying as I came down the aisle,” Kelsey says.

On his birthday the previous year, Chris Azzarello received the greatest gift of all when the love of his life responded with a ‘yes’. Yes to celebrating every birthday together, for the rest of their lives.

In late August the skies cleared and the Sunshine Coast hinterland shone in all its glory.

The Brisbane painter managed to pull off the perfect proposal, despite a pair of heels’ best effort to stomp all over the surprise.

“Chris had booked a room at the Stamford Hotel in the city,” says Kelsey. “I thought we were just going to have a night out – have some drinks and go out for dinner. We ended up having to go back to the hotel because Chris said he had forgotten his licence.”

At this stage the future Mrs Azzarello was not catching on, instead suffering the stylish woman’s plight.

“I went to sit in the foyer. I had heels on and was not going to walk up to the room if I didn’t have to, but he kept making up >

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>

all these excuses for why I had to go with him,” Kelsey says.

What awaited was worth the walk.

“When Chris opened the door, romantic music playing, there were rose petals everywhere, a bottle of champagne and chocolate strawberries,” Kelsey says. “I was looking at everything and then I turned around and he was on one knee.”

The couple’s story began four years earlier when they met through mutual friends.

“There was an instant attraction,” says Kelsey. “Once we went on a few dates we were inseparable.”

Young love grew into the love of a lifetime with the pair tying the knot at Tiffany’s, the majestic Maleny surrounds providing a picture-perfect backdrop for their wedding.

“It’s such a peaceful and natural setting. I just fell in love with it,” says Kelsey.

Those nearest and dearest witnessed a heartfelt ceremony during which the bride and groom exchanged their own vows.

“For me the ceremony was the most important part of the day,” says Kelsey. “The rest is just a bonus.”

Family and friends wined, dined and toasted the happy couple on top of the world, in a stunningly restored Queenslander that perfectly captured the bride’s vision for an elegant, romantic affair.

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ABOUT THE VENUE Offering an unsurpassed view of the Sunshine Coast hinterland’s rolling green hills and majestic mountains, Tiffany’s is a boutique wedding venue which promises a breathtakingly beautiful and professional experience.

“We both loved the stunning view, elegant feel of the venue and the service they offered – great service from start to finish,” Kelsey says.

Situated in mystic Maleny, Tiffany’s is a family owned and operated business with Kelly and David Tilse leading a passionate and skilled bunch. Bringing together decades of experience, the team at Tiffany’s ensure your special day is stunning, seamless and stress-free.

Fraser Island’s pristine surrounds and Kingfisher Bay Resort’s wedding know-how combine to provide a postcard-perfect location

for beach, bush, island and resort weddings. And now there are even more reasons to say “I do” on Fraser.

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FROM THE COUPLETo the wonderful WAT team,Thank you SO much for making our wedding a great success! Your courtesy and responsiveness from start to finish was excellent. On the day, the service of all staff was impeccable, the food was delicious, the beverage service was beyond our expectations and everything was set up EXACTLY how I wanted it. Being a perfectionist, it was difficult to hand over the set up of my styling and decor to you, but I couldn’t have done it better myself. I loved seeing it all come together so beautifully. It was perfect, so thank you. Most importantly, it’s so rewarding knowing the guest experience at our wedding was amazing and everyone was so well looked after. So many guests told us on the night and days and weeks after that our wedding was the best wedding they had EVER been to. What a wonderful compliment to all involved.You have such an elegant venue and provide wonderful service consistently. I will be recommending you to any engaged couples I speak to in the future and wish you all the best for the future of Tiffany’s as well! With love, Kelsey (and Chris) Azzarello

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Fraser Island’s pristine surrounds and Kingfisher Bay Resort’s wedding know-how combine to provide a postcard-perfect location

for beach, bush, island and resort weddings. And now there are even more reasons to say “I do” on Fraser.

07 4120 3311or email [email protected] www.fraserislandweddings.com.au

Fraser, the perfect Island to say “I do”

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“I wanted the reception to feel like an intimate, adults-only dinner,” says Kelsey.

Candles flickered on three long banquet tables, peach and pink floral arrangements added pops of colour throughout the room and a solo guitarist performed an acoustic session.

A dream wedding is hard to top but the newlyweds did their best, spending two weeks honeymooning throughout Italy with an itinerary that would make the well-travelled jealous – Rome, Milan, the Amalfi coast and Florence.

“It’s a bit hard going back to normal life after such an exciting time,” says Kelsey. “I did not think the post wedding blues existed, but they definitely do!”

For more information on Weddings at Tiffany’s, visit weddingsattiffanys.com.au

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FOR BETTER OR FOR WORSE

local teenage boys hanging around at the time, and it was enough to put her off having kids.

“The young blokes were called ‘teddy boys’ and we didn’t want a teddy boy so we said ‘no thank you’,” Betty laughs. “This one said we needed a lot of practice!”

But the truth is, Arthur and Betty just love each other’s company.

“Many people don’t believe it when I say it, but we truly didn’t argue. We’ve had no time apart and never had holidays separately. The only time we have been apart was when Arthur was in hospital,” Betty says.

“I didn’t talk much and that suited her,” Arthur adds in jest. “I don’t tell her I love her every day, but it’s there. She puts up with me.”

“We have always enjoyed doing things together,” Betty explains.

“We have similar likes and dislikes,” Arthur adds.

When it comes to living a long and fruitful life there were certainly no fad diets, exercise regimes or intensive spiritual retreats for Arthur and Betty Bluett, who celebrate 66 years of marriage this year.

INSTEAD THEY TRAVELLED the world, played golf, ate ice cream every night and dinner was never without a stiff drink.

Their secret to a happy marriage? “Not having a family straight away,” Betty says.

Bucking the trend of their married friends, Arthur and Betty chose to spend the first 12 years of marriage “getting to know each other better” and taking holidays wherever possible throughout Europe, Canada, USA and Hawaii. Betty says she wasn’t too fussed on the

WORDS PENNY SHIPWAY PORTRAIT PHOTO ANASTASIA KARIOFYLLIDIS

Love,laughter and icecream

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“I didn’t like golf, but he did,” Betty says. “I thought ‘if you can’t beat them join them!’ So I played golf and played 200 courses.” Betty says she absolutely loved it “I’ve had a hole in one and he hasn’t!”

“I’ve never lived it down!” Arthur says.

Arthur, then 21, and a 19-year-old Betty met at a Woolworths ball on a warm spring evening in 1946. Both from New Zealand, Betty was working at the Woolworths head office in Wellington and was looking forward to a night of dancing with friends. Arthur had recently left the New Zealand Air Force and was attending the ball with Pat, his fiancée at the time.

“He danced with me more than he did with his fiancée!” Betty says cheekily.

But in a twist of fate, Pat died a short time later due to an undiagnosed heart complication. Arthur and Betty had remained friends since the ball and rekindled their friendship when Betty was working a second job at a cinema ticketing office.

“I was sick of doing nothing [since Pat’s death], so I went to the movies with a friend,” Arthur says. “And who was the cutie in the ticket box? I loved her at first sight; she was my everything. I saw a lot of movies from then on.”

After the movie that night, the two got chatting and Arthur offered to drop Betty home, with the pair living just a block from each other.

“He would go and catch a train and I could see him from my bedroom window and I would be waving. I can still remember that now,” Betty says.

Teaching Betty to ride a bike was a marriage highlight for Arthur who says Betty took “plenty of spills” and had “a few ripped stockings”.

But it was recounting tales from their honeymoon in New Zealand that had the love birds in hysterics as they relived a funny moment when Arthur thought it was a good idea to try Betty’s nightdress on but then found he could not get it off. The pair concedes a few drinks may have lubricated their recklessness.

Shortly after the honeymoon, they bought a block of land in Frankton, and built a house where they would later raise their two sons Graham and Murray.

“The kids said ‘you looked after us when we were little and now we are looking after you’,” Betty says. “And they do it beautifully.”

Arthur, whom Betty affectionately calls “Bluey”, worked as a Tip Top delivery driver and climbed the ranks to sales manager in a career spanning 32 years. At 50, Arthur suffered a heart attack. Betty, who is never short of a joke, quips: “He said he had a heart attack because I was a big worry to him!”

Arthur and Betty immigrated to Australia in 1991 to be with their sons, who live at Marcus Beach and Landsborough. And while Arthur brought with him a healthier attitude, he certainly didn’t stop entertaining his friends and family with his famous barbecues of “rissoles, sausages and steaks: my three specialties”.

So what then is the secret to living a long life, Arthur?

“Plenty of ice cream!”

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Carried Away

Dress: Anna Campbell Forever Entwined Collection Image: 35mm Wedding Photography Model: Saasha @ Chadwicks Hair: 391 Milk and Honey Flowers: Flowers in a Vase

‘the one’ Oh my, that dress. ‘The one’ shimmers and sparkles with every turn … breathtaking, individual and beautiful. There is something truly mesmerising about an Anna Campbell dress. Her designs drip with decadence. They are inspired creations of vintage romance and are all handmade in Melbourne. Choosing the dress with help from this talented team will be as memorable an experience as the big day itself.

The Eloise is an irresistible union of enchanting ivory lace and delicate sequins, softly entwined to create a luminous bridal dress that twinkles with every step. The sequins shimmer softly while the lace train splays out beautifully. This is ‘the one’ for the romantic at heart. $2999. annacampbell.com.au

TO HAVE AND TO HOLD

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Here’s our pick of fashionable, must-have products for that loved up occasion. WORDS BRISEIS ONFRAY

Of all the days, this is the one to be swept up and carried away. Bridesmaids will always be there to catch you, but it is vital to have beautiful items at hand. Linda Gorringe Couture has an extensive selection of luxury beaded and embroidered accessories for the bride and her bridesmaids, including this beautiful hand-held clutch. This art-deco piece is fan-beaded in ivory pearls with a silver frame and crystal diamante clasp. (170mm L x 110mm H x 62mm D), $299rrp. lindagorringecouture.com.au

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When it comes to love, a diamond will always make her heart beat faster. Forever sparkling with expressions of his undying love, a beautifully set rock is the ultimate proposal piece, and probably his most cherished investment decision to get, well… perfect. Ben Millroy is the third generation jeweller behind this piece: a modern, classic cluster engagement ring (.54ct princess cut diamond and GIA certified $7,850). This local family sure knows their rocks and have been working with precious metals and gems since 1975 with every piece designed and made on the premises. millroy.com.au

CROWNING

GLORYAccording to Bella Boutique Hair, this season’s brides have it all – glamorous, undone elegance tinted with bohemian chic. Softest of waves or romantic pin ups, crowned with flowers or crystal embellishments. The team at Bella believes that it’s about creating an effortless look that is a true version of you. Individual personality is allowed to shine with a style that accentuates natural beauty and character. Bridesmaids complement the bride’s style. It’s about making a bridal party look and feel extra-adorable, with styling that contributes to capture beautiful memories and photographs to treasure for a lifetime. bellaboutiquehair.com.au

When love is in the air, the breeze is sure to be frisky. These clever candles will remain alight for as long as their timer function is set. Enjoy Lighting candles are flameless and are the most realistic no-flame candles on the market. They are beautifully scented, made from pure paraffin wax and capable of providing 450 hours of flickering candlelight. They are safe, dripless, and even turn themselves out with the timer. They only need AA batteries to run. Available in various sizes and colours. Hire or purchase for $29.95 to $59.95. loveandprotect.com.au

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‘I DO’ WITH A VIEWThe sky is the limit and on a day like your wedding everything, including the sunset, must be exceptional. Outrigger Little Hastings Street Resort & Spa, Noosa, caters for ceremonies and receptions. Their location is world-class, boasting breathtaking views with an intimate venue setting. Snuggled up with Noosa National Park, the highest peak of the resort is a private deck that overlooks Laguna Bay and that is where the magic happens. Stunning views are one thing, extraordinary cuisine and service are another, but the unforgettable memories shared on your special day will be cherished forever. outriggeraustralia.com

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Where there is a will there is a way, and the only way is organic in this freshly renovated palace of pampering goodness. For those that know Eco Organic, the experience is still an intimate and nurturing one, but there is now enough space to provide hair and beauty treatments for hens and bridal parties too. It’s a girl thing, but sharing a beauty transformation with your bestie can be more fun than going solo. Being organic by nature means that the team at Eco loves to keep the salon experience fresh and only the highest quality products are used. eco-organic.com

TO HAVE AND TO HOLD

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MAKE YOUR MARQUE A KataLane Nordic Event Tent is a marquee with a

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LOVE LETTERS Dress your cake with a slice of your own words with this Paper Boat Press ceramic bunting. The gorgeous banners are created by artist Kylie Johnson in her ceramic studio in Brisbane. They are made to order and a beautiful way to share your own love story. Choose the ribbon, choose the colour of the text and choose your own wording. Kylie (a published poet) can even verse up the perfect romantic line to adorn your cake, turning it into the sweetest piece of romantic celebration and a truly unique piece of you. paperboatpress.bigcartel.com

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MAGIC MAKER

WEARABLE WORKS OF ART

The sculptures in Erin Clare Oberem’s studio are non-traditional.

THEY ARE NOT CAST in bronze, clay, or wood, but in liquid silks, weightless tulles and the most delicate of laces. They are in fact gowns from this designer’s bridal collection, but to describe them as anything less than works of art would be to do them an injustice.

Erin describes the process of creating a bridal gown as a type of artistic expression.

“It’s a form of sculpture,” she says. “It’s a form of working in 3D and putting colours together. It’s definitely an art.”

Erin, under her label Erin Clare, has created a collection of exquisite bridal gowns which she describes as having a “vintage modern” feel. She also specialises in custom designed and made-to-order bridal gowns, which she describes as an exciting and “really fun” process.

“I usually get to meet the mother of the bride, and it’s a lovely journey,” says Erin.

Some of the most memorable gowns she has created have been for brides who have come to her with their mother’s wedding gown, which they have asked Erin to remodel.

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WORDS LINDA READ PHOTOS ANASTASIA KARIOFYLLIDIS

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“One in particular that I loved was an entire gown I re-made just using the lace from the bride’s mum’s gown,” she says. “I got to know her and her mum, and they invited me to the wedding, and I met the lady – the mum’s sister – who’d made the original gown. That was really special.”

Another highlight was a friend’s daughter who was getting married, and who asked Erin to create a gown using 100-year-old lace that her grandmother had made.

“The lace was beautifully made, and I kept the pieces largely intact so she can use it again later, because she wants to pass it on. I have lots of fun with my brides.”

Erin, who was born in Perth to her Zimbabwean father and English mother, went to South Africa with her parents as a baby. She grew up between South Africa, Zimbabwe and England. Fashion design was always in her blood, it seems. She recalls spending many happy hours as a little girl with her gran, who had seven daughters and “was always sewing”.

“To keep me happy she would give me fabric,” she says. “Before I could stitch, I used to sticky tape everything together. I have a real passion for fabrics and textiles.”

She also recently discovered that her great grandmother sewed for a living and earned enough from her trade to pay for the family home. Erin spent a few years working in a bank, which she says she was “absolute rubbish” at because she was too busy watching what everyone was wearing.

“Eventually the penny dropped, and I realised that actually I needed to go and study fashion,” she says. “Suddenly it was like the lights went on.” >

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FOR EXTRA SALT visit saltmagazine.com.au to see more photos of Erin Clare Oberem.

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She studied fashion design at university in South Africa, and worked in fashion houses there, including for prominent label Juanita Pacheco. In 2002 she moved back to the country of her birth with her husband Patrick Oberem and son Duncan, now 19, settling at Noosa. They have since had another son, Ethan, 6.

Her home studio provides the perfect setting in which to create her designs. A huge work table dominates the room, and one wall is lined with boxes full of various materials, which Erin says is due to her “fabric fetish”. A mannequin displays her latest creation for her collection, a stunning classical romantic design called “Audrey” – they all have names.

Erin says she is in love with this one, but then admits “I always fall in love with the latest one”. A pad full of sketches sits on the table, which Erin explains is a vital part of the design process.

“A lot of girls will come with a number of pictures,” she says. “I’ll look at their body shape, and see what it is that they’d like to accentuate most, because we’re not all perfect.

“Then we’ll have a bit of a play with fabric, and I’ll sketch off a few sketches, and they’ll say ‘I’m not too sure about that’ and ‘I love that’. Once we’ve decided on a design, I’ll create a mock-up so she can try it on.”

The mock-up is done in a less expensive fabric, so the bride-to-be can be absolutely sure of the design before Erin cuts into the silks and laces, some of which are imported from France and Italy. Erin explains that her designs “break a lot of rules” by emphasising comfort as well as beauty.

“There’s a traditional way of creating a gown, with boning and what not,” she says. “I’ve really gone into the fit, and having it fit

the body in a soft way. A lot of the time a wedding gown can be really restrictive.”

While Erin clearly has a creative talent (she also paints and has taken sculpture classes), she says that she has quite a mathematical side as well. This, she explains, is also a plus when it comes to making her patterns.

“With pattern making, mathematically you’ve got to know what you’re doing, otherwise your patterns are going to be all over the place,” she says. “So you’ve got to have almost a three dimensional mathematical brain to be able to put it together. It’s almost like sculpture.”

Erin plans to produce a new bridal collection each year, and continue with her custom made bridal couture which she is so passionate about. She also plans to keep everything Australian made, and employs some local seamstresses.

“Down the track I’d love to be supplying the major cities as well,” she says. “But I’m allowing my business to grow organically. I like to keep my hand on the pulse, and I like to get to know my brides as well.”

And what is the very best part of her job?

“When I see the finished product,” she says. “I just love it when I see them on a model or on a bride, because then it comes to life. I tend to grin like a Cheshire cat.” erinclare.com.au

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A FRENCH- INSP IRED WEDDING AT SP ICERS

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