Petria and Geoff are both lawyers and balance each other out perfectly. We were honoured to be asked to photograph their special day especially because Petria’s dad is our family GP and is particular close with our children (they love him so much they want to go to the doctors and even made up a game to play at home called DR Nick).
So for us, it was so lovely to able to give something back, doing something for him and his beautiful family.
Even with some small hiccups (a zip malfunction that was fixed in record time), the day was filled with laughter, love, beautiful speeches, dancing and the joining of two special families.
When you look through their photographs, it’s easy to feel how much love is between these two lovely people. And for us, it’s great when couples aren’t afraid to get a little silly, embrace their fun sides and show their personalities. So in between the beautiful, more serious images are shots of candid moments and funny faces. We also loved capturing the faces of their friends and family as they listened to the emotional speeches.
Once we had all the photos ready to go, we chatted to the gorgeous bride about her day and how she felt about it all.
What was your favourite moment from the day?
Walking down the aisle and seeing Geoff’s face would have to be my favourite moment.
I also loved the moment in my father’s speech when he said he thought that I was the most beautiful bride he had seen since my mother was his bride – it just so touching.
The first thing you thought when you woke up was?
Today I get to marry the love of my life!
The most surprising part was?
The (almost) disaster when the zip on my dress broke as it was being put on me, with just an hour before we had to leave. Thankfully Brad (designer Darb) was there – he rushed to his car for scissors and cut me out of the dress, then drove to his workshop in the city accompanied by my Dad, sewed in a new zip and was back in the nick of time! I just don’t know what we would have done if Brad was not there. I have to say that he was just incredible and worked so fast to avert what could have been an absolute disaster!
Advice to other brides-to-be?
Enjoy the day – it is over so fast! I know everyone says that but it really is over so quickly!
What were your feelings when you walked down the aisle?
As I said, walking down the aisle was my favourite moment from the day – it really was incredible. I was so overwhelmed with happiness and joy seeing for the first time that day the man that would soon become my husband.
Tell us about the dress?
It was the first dress I tried on – and I only tried it on as I liked the bodice. I was convinced I wanted a slim fitting ‘mermaid’ style dress but as soon as I put the dress on, I knew it was the one. My mother, sister, aunt and goddaughter all said that’s the one, and I think my mum was teary!
It was designed by Brad Webb (Darb) and absolutely exquisite – the lace and beading, and the full skirt – it just took my breath away.
What do you think about the photographs that Andrew took? Did they capture the day?
The photographs are just so beautiful – Andrew has captured some very special moments. I could not be happier.
Do you have a favourite and why?
I have so many favourites! If I had to pick one, I would say the photograph of Geoff and I walking out of Customs House holding hands and smiling at each other. Also the photograph at the cliffs where I am twirling and Geoff is holding my hand (with the incredible blue sky in the background) is lovely.
Every couple has their own love story. Tell us about yours…
Geoff and I met a few years ago while we were working as Judges’ Associates. He was the first person to really make me laugh – and I’ve been laughing every day since! Not long after we started dating, I was awarded a scholarship to study in the UK. Although we hadn’t been together a very long time, within a few weeks of being apart, I knew he was the one for me. Geoff then visited me twice in the twelve months I was away and we spent some incredible time together in Europe. When I then accepted a job in Sydney, he then moved to Sydney (although he had never liked Sydney) to be with me. Now, three years later, we are still in Sydney and love the city (I think perhaps Geoff now loves it even more than me!).
How do you complement each other? Are you similar or very different?
We are both lawyers but very different! Geoff is a very laid back and playful individual. I, on the other hand, am a bit of a control freak. I can always count on Geoff to bring me back to reality if I am ever stressed or upset about something.
I truly believe that Geoff has brought out the best in me; I am a better person for knowing him – and we have so much fun together. I know that my life with Geoff will always be fun and spontaneous. I truly feel loved unconditionally and I cannot wait to see what our life together brings.
Best advice about love you’ve ever received and from whom?
“Don’t sweat the small stuff” – from Geoff!
If you are on the lookout for your own wedding photographer – we would love to be considered. Call us at the studio on 07 3393 0066 for a chat or email porfyri@porfyri.com.au