Raluca + Clay

How did you meet?

We first met when the F45 studio came to town back in early 2018. My now husband has recently moved back to his home town for a while and I had recently returned from living life abroad for two years and decided to live with my sister – who also lived in the same town. Needless to say, it was not love at first sight First impressions, Clay thought I was stuck-up and to be fair, I thought he was quite the snob.

When did you know they were the one?

He was the first guy that didn’t play games. Which took me by surprise, particularly given my first impressions of him. The saying ‘don’t judge a book by its cover’ never felt more true. Very quickly into dating, he made me feel safe, and secure and provided me with space to just be me. The good, the bad, the ugly, he has always been there, judgement-free.

What are your three favourite attributes of your partner?

He is fiercely loyal. Protective. And the most driven person I know.

Who proposed and how?

My husband Clay proposed, it was truly the dreamiest moment. A sunset cruise on a private boat in the midst of the Italian summer. It was euphoric. Dinner followed overlooking Positano which glistened so bright that night. We watched the midnight fireworks from our hotel balcony like they had been put on just for us. The thought of evening still takes my breath away.

Where did you fall in love with your dress and why?

Made with Love (OF) at the Gold Coast boutique. After two previous fitting at other bridal stores, I decided to go to MWL on my very own and it was the best decision I ever made. I fell in love with my dress because it was ME! Even to this day, people say how well fitted the dress was to my style and personality. For a beach wedding, the detail and the sheer bodice of the Huxley, paired with the Holly veil was perfection. Not to mention the light airy feel of the dress. Mmmm *chefs kiss*

What was the best moment for you at your wedding?

Exchanging our personal vows In that moment the world disappeared and it was just us two.

What were your favourite details?

Champagne tower, our long lunch soirée, the speeches. Most of all we truly appreciated all our wonderful vendors and team that bought our intimate day together.

What advice would you tell other brides?

Do you! Don’t worry about tradition, opinions, or ‘should haves’. Do what feels right for you and your partner and enjoy the planning, the lead up and the day. It’s true what they say, it goes by in a blink, so enjoy every moment.

Any standout vendors?

Absolutely!! All of them! Our wonderful celebrant Tiff at Hitched by Hulm made our ceremony so special and personalised to us. Our stylist Simply Style Co. and florist Willow Bud Flowers who worked so wonderfully together, through to our venue Alba by Kuruvita in Noosa. Our photographers Common Studios and videography Twelve08Studios made us feel so comfortable and natural.