Editor’s Note
Welcome to the 2022 edition of GT BRIDE.
It’s such an honour to put this magazine together – every page is filled with so much love and joy that it’s hard not to smile as you turn the pages. And I’m not going to lie, this year’s magazine is just that little bit more special given everything we’ve all been through over the past two years. From couples having to postpone, cancel or make last-minute changes to their longed-for wedding day to the region’s many event industry businesses hit so incredibly hard during the pandemic, we really do have reason to celebrate the return of weddings and all the happiness they bring.
If anything, the opportunity to celebrate love with loved ones means so much more after time forced apart from those we’re closest to. All the things we once took for granted all of a sudden became the things we missed the most.
Big weddings were swapped for much smaller affairs with immediate family; elopements almost became the norm. In a way, recent times have changed the way couples now plan for their big day. It’s less about the ‘event’ and so much more about the people they’re sharing their special day with.
Which leads me to the remarkable wedding industry businesses we have on offer in this region that truly make couple’s dreams come true. We’re privileged to share many of those businesses with you in this year’s magazine. Geelong and its surrounds is fast becoming known as a wedding hot spot in Victoria, with some of the best locations and suppliers at your fingertips.
As always, we’re thrilled to share with you a variety of real wedding experiences, all proof that couples are opting to make the day their own. From dogs as ring bearers to farm weddings, beach weddings and everything in between, those planning their nuptials are sure to get plenty of ideas for their own big day from the 18 weddings featured in this edition.
You’re also sure to find inspiration from our fashion shoot (which starts on page 16). We wanted it to be a real celebration – of love, weddings being back and the incredible event businesses we have here. Shot at the stunning Rocklea Farm, it was captured beautifully by Verity Stubbs of Ginger + Mint. A special thanks to Emma McFarlane from Blush Bar, Dave Formosa-Urquhart from Rocklea Farm and our own Tessa Hayward for making the day run seamlessly, and of course our models Mariana Restrepo and Keeden Graham. It was the first modelling shoot for Keeden, a youth mentor with Strong Brother Strong Sister, and you’ll see for yourself that he’s a natural in front of the camera.
Thank you for turning to us for inspiration for your big day – we feel honoured to be a part of your journey and hope you find what it is you’re looking for to make your special day the wedding you’ve always dreamt of.