Monika Radulovic’s modern romance began with a chance meeting on Facebook with artist Alessandro Ljubicic. Their romance led them from first dates, to Monika’s Miss Universe Australia win, a proposal in Paris on the love lock bridge, then eventually through the doors of Eternal Bridal and down the aisle.

Wearing her warm signature smile, Monika first stepped through Sydney’s Eternal Bridal boutique on her bridal shopping journey to find the dress which encompassed both her and the romance of her big day.

Monika’s search for the perfect wedding dress coincided with Eternal Bridal’s bi-annual Galia Lahav Trunk show and a special invitation was extended for Monika’s attendance. Galia Lahav and the trunk show team had set up a special surprise, a one-on-one video chat with head designer Sharon Sever. Sharon wanted to meet Monika so that he could gain inspiration to create a dress which defined both Monika and her fiancé.

The design process kicked into gear when Alessandro surprised Monika with front row tickets to Galia’s New York Bridal Fashion Week runway, to experience the essence of Galia Lahav Bridal. After a private design session Sharon brought Monika’s visions to life with a two-in-one outfit for the wedding gown. Deeply inspired by Alessandro’s artwork; passionate deep reds and bold brush-stroked florals were translated into thousands of Swarovski crystals, sequins and beads merged to create a detachable bolero and cathedral veil.

Combined together with a romantic corset ball gown, Monika was a breath-taking vision as she walked down the white carpeted lawn on her father’s arm. The couple’s beautiful “I do” on a floral adorned pavilion, was a fairy tale vision of a princess and her Prince Charming.

After the ceremony for the wedding photos Monika removed the bolero jacket and revealed a fully beaded French lace corseted bodice. To finished the second look, she was adorned with a handmade crown by Queen of the crowns Viktoria Novak.

Monika wowed guests a second time at the reception. During the fashion week meet up, it was decided Monika would have two dresses for her special day. The evening gown is inspired by Monika’s figure and giving the sexy and fun look as her evening outfit. Galia Lahav’s signature backless gowns, fully accentuates Monika’s curvy figure. The open slit at the arm and leg, makes every moment more sexy and ethereal. The look was the perfect compliment for the moody romantic reception filled with gleaming mirrored tables, rich red accent florals and grand chandeliers.

After the big day, when asked what her advice to other brides is; “I’d say relax during the planning stages. It doesn’t have to be a stressful time and it’s much nicer to look back on the planning as a fun experience.” She also believes that “it’s really important to be present on your wedding day. Focus on you and your partner and all the love on the day, as that’s what it’s all about.”

It was an amazing experience to be present at this beautiful wedding and see the gowns come to life in such a magical way. We wish Monika and Alessandro all the happiness in the world.

If you love Monika's dress as much as we do and want to become a Galia Lahav bride yourself, please follow the link to our upcoming Galia Lahav Trunk Show

Vendors

Wedding gown: Custom couture by Galia Lahav via Eternal Bridal
Evening gown: Custom couture by Galia Lahav via Eternal Bridal
Photographer: Image Hause Weddings
Hair: Suzanne Henderson
Make up: Alarna Bell
Crown: Viktoria Novak
Rings: Gregory Jewellers
Bridal shoes: Badgley Mishcka
Venue: Miramare Gardens
Floral: Mr Cook Florist & Fleur Events
Wedding cake: Valentina Toto
Invites and stationery:  Social AF
Men suite: Mr A Taylor
Bridesmaids: White Runway