On the outskirts of Sydney, Monique and Manu celebrated their love through a revlry of art and design. Set amongst Bundanon Gallery where modern architecture blended seamlessly into the lush Australian countryside, the newlyweds exchanged vows and indulged with loved ones in an intimate event beautifully captured by Megan Kelly. The theme, as one of the guests perfectly surmised, was ‘Art Amongst Art’, reflecting the spirit of the venue and the couple's eclectic style. Steeped in a contemporary essence, tablescapes were minimal, yet bold in approach. Sculptural formations of vegetables and fruits towered above table settings adorned with hand-calligraphy menus and artistic linocut printed place cards, while an abstract ribbon and orential lily arrangement filled the room with a timeless floral fragrance. The true masterpiece of the day? The vibrant cyan blue table-length cake by Vege Mamma, a true work of art and the centerpiece of the reception.
Our Love Story
The Day We Met
We're a Covid couple who matched on Hinge during the first week of lockdown. Our first date was a stroll around a popular bay walk in Sydney, where Manu leaned in for a kiss on the cheek, and Monique, in a moment of pandemic panic, countered with an elbow bump! We have been inseperable ever since.
The Proposal
Three years into our relationship, we packed up our Sydney apartment and relocated to New York. Manu proposed during our first picnic in a humble spot in Central Park, and we celebrated by sipping champagne there for the rest of the night.
The Engagement Ring
We selected the diamonds and band together from our favorite Melbourne designer, Seb Brown. The ring has a chunky rectangular setting with two emerald-cut Australian champagne tinged diamonds.
Our Wedding
The Vision
Living abroad, we wanted a venue that could host us and our loved ones for an entire weekend and feel like home. Bundanon Art Gallery on the South Coast of NSW was everything we envisioned and more, providing a space where we could celebrate well into the early hours.
Our Team of Vendors
We owe thanks to three incredible women: Heidi from The Romance, who styled and coordinated everything to perfection. Jo from Garnish Catering, whose food was sensational and Megan Kelly, our photographer, who captured everything beautifully with her natural, candid style.
The Venue
We got married in the Arthur Boyd Education Center at Bundanon Art Gallery, with all guests staying on-site. The exquisite architecture, art, and rural Aussie bush setting instantly sold us on the venue — we booked it online without seeing it in person! Someone remarked that our wedding looked like 'Art amongst Art,' and I will always remember that fondly.
The Ceremony
We officially married two days earlier in a small Sikh ceremony at a Gurdwara in Sydney. Our Bundanon ceremony was outdoors, with vows exchanged beside the rolling landscape. White bentwood chairs and oriental lilies were the only accents needed to enhance the magical surroundings. We also had touches of velvet ribbon from Monique's grandfather's ribbon business, fluttering beautifully in the breeze.
The Reception
Our reception included 110 guests seated at two long tables, with art as the centerpiece. We opted for a blend of simplicity and bold artistry in our styling, incorporating food sculptures, quirky florals, mirrored reflections along the tables, and sky blue candles. We also loved being seated amongst our guests — highly recommend!
The Special Touches
The reception room was a blank canvas, apart from a stunning piece of art and a baby grand piano — so naturally, we had to find a pianist to make the most of it! Bonnie's jazz and classical tunes filled the space with magic. And I couldn’t get enough of the ‘M’ juniper berry sculpture by Heidi, which cleverly symbolized both our names.
Our Favorite Moment
Since we had already been married a few days earlier, we chose to have Monique’s best friend of twenty years officiate this ceremony. It made saying our vows all the more inimate and was a stand out moment for both of us. Walking down the aisle hand in hand while everyone cheered was also unforgettable.
Our Style
The Bridal Looks
I found my dress during a trip to London with my sister, from The Own Studio, who made me feel ethereal. I opted for a simple brocade wedding dress, focusing on the dramatic veil moment, and added a black glove for a cheeky touch. My jewelry was family heirlooms, which made it all the more special. In the evening, I switched to a fun Cult Gaia outfit.
The Groom Look
We got Manu’s classic style suit tailor-made by Jay at Suitsupply in Soho, New York.
Our Bridesmaid’s Looks
We had our sisters as our bridesmaid and groomsmaid, and they picked their own dresses to wear, choosing whatever made them feel most beautiful.
Our Advice
For The Planning Process
Enjoy the journey! Dividing tasks based on each other's strengths and teaming up made everything feel more manageable. And remember, it’s your special day — your guests are there for you. Make it uniquely yours, and it’ll be unforgettable for everyone.
For On The Day
Hiring an on-the-day coordinator was our best investment, allowing us to be present in every moment. At the last minute, we handed out four film cameras to our guests. Seeing those candid shots developed and the vibrant atmosphere within our reception was priceless.
For Post-Wedding
Don’t skip the honeymoon — it’s still on our to-do list and something we’re eagerly looking forward to.
Vendors
Photography: Megan Kelly
Wedding Stylist & Coordinator: The Romance Styling
Venue: Bundanon
Florist: Frannie Wild
Stationery: Byv Studio, Curry Ribbons
Cake: Vege Mamma
Catering: Garnish Catering, Henry Clive Bar
Music: The Vintage Stylus, Bonnie Green Music
Hair and Makeup: Serena Wyllie Makeup
Style
Bridal Dress: The Own Studio
After Party Outfit: Cult Gaia
Bridal Shoes: Tibi
Bridal Jewelry: Jasmin Sparrow
Wedding Ring and Engagement Ring: Seb Brown
Groom: Suitsupply
Bridesmaids: Rejinapyo, Bec + Bridge