Ben and James: Fun, Fabulous, and Full of Love
"Fun, fabulous, and full of love" the three terms Ben and James used to define their inner-city wedding which took place at Melbourne's Metropolis earlier this year.
It was a work Christmas party that brought these two gents together, "things moved quickly from there, and it wasn't long before we were an official couple", the gents tell us, "and so began a new beginning for us both, the start of our lives together."
Photography Miranda Stokkel | Venue Metropolis
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How and when did you meet?
B & J - We've certainly come a long way from our first meeting in a lift heading home from work in 2011. Although our love story didn't start there, this meeting would prove to lay the foundations of positive first impressions for us both.
Months passed, and our paths crossed again at the Christmas Party. Yes - the Christmas party!! The after-party saw us change venue, and after many bubbles and beers, we found ourselves together at the bar. Alone. Having this rare moment present itself, Ben seized the opportunity to create some casual small talk with James. Another positive impression.
James felt strongly about creating a line between personal and professional, and an office romance was certainly not an option. As a manager, Ben had similar reservations.
The turning point finally came during summer work drinks that we were both attending, and let's just say there was some serious beer and maybe even a prosecco or two consumed that night, and with James living in Bacchus Marsh at the time, let's face it, getting on that last VLine train was never going to happen!
The crowd grew thin, and then there were 4, ourselves and two friends Libby and Steph. The girls left to grab some drinks. Then there were 2… and then - done. Eyes closed, lips sealed - the first kiss!!
Things moved quickly from there, and it wasn't long before we were an official couple, and so began a new beginning for us both, the start of our lives together.
Tell us a little about the earlier days of your relationship...
Over the past 7 years we've shared many experiences and milestones as a couple. Together we share a passion for food and wine, and love nothing more than to grab a coffee on the weekend and take a walk. We love to explore and experience life, both here and abroad, and wholeheartedly believe that life is one big adventure. Our common interest in travel started in South East Asia, followed by Europe.
Who proposed, and how?
J - It was 4 years ago when Ben popped the question. Halfway into our 4 week European getaway, we found ourselves in the city of champagne, cheese, croissants, cobblestone streets, amazing architecture and of course, love! PARIS! And on our to-do list was to share a simple picnic. Our 2nd morning in town saw us laden with fresh bread, cheese, charcuterie and of course, delicious French wine, and headed for a nice cosy, private spot somewhere with a great view of the Eiffel Tower.
So there we were, in the city of love, picnic set and vino in hand. Then I felt a tap on my shoulder, turned around and perfectly placed on the grass behind were 4 cards. Will. You. Marry. Me.
What does Marriage mean to you?
Our engagement, 4 years ago, was evidence of our genuine intention and desire to marry. Two people in love, wholeheartedly committed to one another, wanting to spend the rest of our lives in a union of Marriage.
We made a conscious decision to wait until Australia recognised true equality so we could share such a special and momentous occasion in our lives with family and friends, in our home town of Melbourne.
With the Marriage laws changing just over a year ago, it meant we could finally make our dream of our very own wedding a wonderful reality.
What we have together is already perfect, and our Marriage was simply a way of celebrating the continuation of all the fun and fabulousness of the last 7 years. In getting married, we have the joy of looking ahead to a life in which we will continue to grow together, learn from one another, create many more memories and incredible experiences with family and friends , and everyday, keep building on their 'happily ever after' - together.
When did you get married?
Friday, 3rd May 2019, a perfect autumn day in Melbourne.
What was the main influence behind your wedding day? What was the most important thing to you surrounding your wedding?
We wanted a venue and location that would offer the full experience- not only for us but our nearest and dearest too. A day of fun, fine food, booze and live music. Metropolis ticked all boxes;
Central and easy for guests to get to
A venue that could easily facilitate ceremony and reception
Touches of detail and wow (gosh that view!)- refined and elegant- but hosting a relaxed and fun party atmosphere
Music (Space for a band)
Quality fresh food and booze- we absolutely adored our menu!!!...
Where did you find the bulk of your inspiration?
Once the venue was locked in- inspiration came from there. The location, style and space. Metropolis was a venue where we could do as little or as much as we wanted. Stunning as a blank canvas or equally as impressive with a splash of "extra". The New York loft-style space featuring a 17-metre internal dome ceiling and 9 metre high windows looking out to Melbourne CBD was simply stunning and we didn't want to take away from that . We ended up going for classic floral colours (creams and greens) complimented with a touch of sparkle from simple candle placements throughout the tables lined with white table cloths. The look was elegant & sophisticated (we wanted something special and memorable being our big day) but the feel of the night fun and relaxed (which was absolutely achieved made through our wonderful suppliers present on the night- THE A TEAM; our- team on the ground at Metropolis Events, Celebrant, photographer, videographer and band).
How did you choose your suppliers?
A mix of recommendations from friends and suppliers. Of course, some solid Instagram research too!
Any standout suppliers?
We were extremely blessed and lucky with all our suppliers. We would recommend them all in a heartbeat.
What was the most difficult thing about planning your wedding?
Finding a venue! Once we locked in the dream location- everything else fell into place.
Any advice for other couples planning their day and finding it difficult to navigate the journey?
Enjoy the experience- leading up to and on the day. We're both pretty planned people which meant wedding week and wedding day was relatively stress-free. We found having a well-balanced lifestyle the 4-5 months leading into the big day was super beneficial. All in all- what will be will be. With each other and your nearest and dearest by your side- what could go wrong!?
Suppliers
Photographer Miranda Stokkel
Videographer C2Films
Venue Metropolis Events
Suits Tailors Mark
Flowers Floretta by Grace
Hire Ruffles & Bells
Cake Miss Lady Bird Cakes
Stationery Wedding Paper Chic
Celebrant Michelle Kiernan
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