Brisbane couple Lily Wu and Daniel Liao make cinematic film for wedding day

A groom has revealed what he would do differently on the big day after being caught short due to nerves.

Jane Armitstead

@JaneArmitstead

4 min read

March 11, 2025 - 7:56AM

QWeekend

The wedding of Lily Wu and Daniel Liao. Pictures: Evernew Studio

Lifestyle

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This couple pulled off what has to be one of the grandest wedding entrances – and even learnt about a wedding hack for the groom.

South Brisbane couple Lily Wu and Daniel Liao screened a cinematic film about their love story for their guests to watch before they entered the reception of their November 2 wedding. The five-minute film, made by Cinematic Ant Studios, featured the couple talking about their relationship and what they mean to each other. It was one of the highlights for the pair, who have been together for three years, and for their 160 guests throughout their “whimsical wonderland” wedding at the InterContinental Sanctuary Cove.

The wedding of Lily Wu and Daniel Liao. Pictures: Evernew Studio

How did you meet? Lily: I was out with my friends celebrating my birthday on the Gold Coast in 2021 with lunch, a hike, followed by a massage at a spa. But in the midst of lunch, the news came that the government had announced yet another Covid lockdown set to take effect at 4pm. We squeezed in a quick hike at Springbrook before heading back to Brisbane. Springbrook, as it happened, was not only my sanctuary but Dan’s as well. Dan was supposed to go hiking that day at the exact same spot but because of the lockdown he had to turn his car around. He saw my post about my hike and so it sparked a conversation. We didn’t know each other before but what began with a few messages soon became a part of our daily lives. Then, one day, Dan took the plunge and asked me to dinner.

The proposal? On August 13, 2023, Dan proposed to me in spectacular fashion. After a helicopter ride to stunning Whitehaven Beach, we shared some bubbles and a picnic. As I posed for what I thought was a simple photo, Dan pointed behind me, saying, “What’s that?” When I turned back, there he was, on one knee, asking the question.

First dance song? U Move I Move by John Legend featuring Jhene Aiko.

The wedding of Lily Wu and Daniel Liao. Pictures: Evernew Studio

How did you choose your wedding venue?
We checked out a few venues before we set our eyes on the beautiful resort at the InterContinental Sanctuary Cove on Hope Island. The beautiful chapel with floor-to- ceiling glass was something out of a fairytale. It was almost an instant decision.

How did you choose your wedding outfit?

Lily: I searched and tried many styles of dresses before I found the dress. It was a style I never imagined I would go for! I remember asking Dan before the wedding what he imagined my dress would look like and he said: “It would definitely be tight-fitted, bejewelled and heavily embellished”. The dress I went for was the complete opposite! It was simple, elegant, no embellishments and flowy. It wasn’t until I flew to a bridal boutique called Champery Couture in Melbourne and tried on their Victoria Gown did I finally have my “this is the dress” moment.

What were your thoughts seeing the bride for the first time?
Dan: As I anticipated seeing Lily for the first time in her wedding dress, I kept telling myself, “Just breathe, and if you cry, you cry … it’s all good.” The moment Lily turned the corner and I laid eyes on her, a wave of tingles ran through my entire body, almost like goosebumps – she was absolutely beautiful. Her face was covered by the veil, but I could still see her gentle smile shining through. It felt surreal, almost like a dream.

The wedding of Lily Wu and Daniel Liao. Pictures: Evernew Studio

What was the most stressful part of wedding planning? The details. I wanted to make sure our guests were well looked after and everyone was going to have a good time. I had a vision for our wedding day: a whimsical wonderland. And who else better to execute my vision other than the amazing Alysia Bridger Events who made the process so much easier. She brought my vision to life! It was everything I dreamt of! It was dreamy, whimsical, elegant and timeless, with lots of my favourite peony flowers.

Any unique or surprising details about your wedding? Along with the help of our talented film maker Crazy Ant Studios, we made a cinematic film that was played before our grand entrance to our reception.

What was the standout moment of the day? Lily: Walking towards my best friend at our wedding ceremony in front of all our friends and family. I will never forget the feeling I got when I saw my husband at the end of the aisle.

What was a wedding non-negotiable for you? Definitely having our amazing wedding stylist and planner Alysia Bridger with us on the day. The date I initially had chosen, Alysia was booked in for another event and I changed the date for our venue so I could have Alysia there!

The wedding of Lily Wu and Daniel Liao. Pictures: Evernew Studio

Top wedding hack? Future grooms, bring two shirts! Dan wished he could change into a new shirt at the reception after all the nervous sweats from the ceremony! Future brides, make sure your wedding heels are comfortable!

Best advice for other couples?

The most important investment is the best wedding planner and photography team.

The Bride

Lily Wu, 29

Profession Cosmetic injector registered nurse

Parents Leo Wu and Jane Yuan

Bridesmaids Sylvia Wu (MOH), Julia Shen, Chau Lam, Vanessa Ea, Wenwen Fan

Dress Ceremony: Champery Couture; reception: House of CB

Jimmy Choo: Avril shoes

Hair Jaala Brinsmead

Make-up Did my own

Flowers The Blossom Tree