On an August Winters day at Stonehurst in NSW’s Hunter Region, Mel and Benny exchanged vows surrounded by their closest family and friends. We spoke with our Sydney real bride, Mel, who shared Benny’s first words to her as she walked down the aisle in her dream wedding dress, what made her say ‘yes’ to said wedding dress, and more. 

Let’s go back to where it all began. When and how did you meet each other?

We met a couple of times over several years but were both in relationships. It wasn’t until 2019 when we reconnected while we were both single. I met Benny when I paid a visit to a bar he was managing for some drinks with my best friend. We didn’t exchange details, but he tracked me down on social media and after a couple of weeks of texting, we met up for the first time one-on-one. The rest is history!

Hit us in the heart strings and tell us all about the proposal!

We’d discussed the idea of getting married many times and I knew it was on the cards. I thought it would come in the latter half of 2023 but, much to my surprise, it came in May. It was a personal and private moment for us to share together. The proposal came in Sydney’s Botanical Gardens during a catered picnic by the water. I didn’t know it at the time but Benny had been coordinating with my friends to get it all sorted - I was completely clueless!

Was there a theme for your wedding? What inspired you while styling your dream day? 

The wedding theme was inspired by the venue we selected. We absolutely fell in love with Stonehurst during our first visit and adored the established poplars, stone buildings, and welcoming staff. As lovers of wine and the Hunter Region it spoke to us immediately. After that we selected some colours we loved - terracotta, dusty rose, and hunter green - and gave free rein to our stylist and florist; The Event Artists.

What was the inspiration behind your bridal look?

I always wanted a sophisticated but sultry look. As a makeup artist, I’ve seen many brides and my taste has evolved accordingly. My look was heavily informed by the dress. I had a list of 5 dresses to try. When I visited Eternal Bridal, I pulled 5 from the rack without regard for my list. The second I tried was THE DRESS!

Describe your ‘yes to the dress’ moments. How did you feel and what made you say ‘yes’?

I loved the sheer bodice, modest lace details, and subtle shimmer. Benny and I spent many weeks watching Say Yes to the Dress in the lead up to the wedding and he developed a lot of knowledge about the industry but was reluctant to say what he loved to protect the big reveal. When I walked down the aisle the first thing he said to me was, “You look incredible, this exactly what I imagined you in!”

How was your experience at Eternal Bridal?

You were the first boutique I booked with. I had a list of other places to visit, but I was immediately taken by the service and range of gowns  in-store. Fusae listened deeply to my preferences and helped me pick the perfect dress in a very personable way (no bullshit haha). Lauren held my hand throughout the alterations process and helped coordinate all custom elements including my sleeves. They were both in my corner from day one.

What was the highlight of your special day?

Seeing Benny cry when I walked down the aisle.

If you could go back in time and give your newly-engaged selves one piece of advice, what would it be?

Trust your instincts.

Mel and Benny’s Wedding Vendors

Dress 'Ronnie' by @enzoani via @eternalbridal

Photography @jeremybeckercreative

Venue @stonehurstweddings

Hair @georgiahullmakeup

Make up @jacksonrobertsmua

Stylist and florist @theeventartists

Celebrant @amywebstercelebrant

Music @wearepaperhearts