Two kids and four years later, couple finally celebrate dream wedding
This media couple always wanted children, but when they discovered they were expecting only three months after they met – it came as an “unexpected but very happy surprise”.
QWeekend
Don't miss out on the headlines from QWeekend. Followed categories will be added to My News.
This media couple always wanted children, but when they discovered they were expecting only three months after they met – it came as an “unexpected but very happy surprise”. The couple’s two children were both part of their idyllic wedding ceremony, held on July 21 in Port Douglas in front of 80 guests.
How did you meet? At bridesmaid Vanessa’s engagement party. A few months later Damo asked Em out for dinner at Grappino in Paddington. We were inseparable from then on. Three months later we found out we were expecting our first child, which was an unexpected but very happy surprise! We were still getting to know each other while planning to have a baby. It’s not for everyone but it worked for us and we wouldn’t change a thing.
The proposal? We had just returned from a farm stay and Damo suggested we go for an impromptu date night at Grappino. After we’d eaten, he got down on bended knee in the middle of the restaurant and proposed. The whole place erupted – it was so special.
Ceremony and reception? The Rainforest Grotto in Port Douglas. We were married beside the giant fig tree and had our reception under the stars, with 80 guests. It was magic.
First dance song? Tennessee Whiskey.
How and why did you choose your wedding venue? Em grew up in the area and that’s also where Damien started his journalism cadetship at the local newspaper. It feels like home to us.
How did you choose your wedding dress? Emily: I didn’t try on a single wedding dress! I discovered Kate Willa’s dreamy designs on Instagram and just knew I had to wear one. My gown was a champagne colour and all beaded tulle. Kate sewed pearls from my mum’s wedding dress onto the cuffs, which was a precious touch.
What thoughts did you have seeing the bride walk down the aisle? Damien: When she emerged with her dad, she smiled at me and my heart skipped a beat. I’ll never forget that feeling.
What was the most stressful part? Mother Nature! The weather is notoriously unpredictable in the far north so we were holding our breath. She didn’t let us down – it was a stunning day and a beautiful balmy night.
What was the standout moment of the day? There were so many. But having our boys part
of our day was incredibly special. Teddie was page boy/ring bearer and Emmett was carried down the aisle by his godmother. A cane train rumbled through as Em was walking down
the aisle which was perfectly timed but purely coincidental. That was another lovely
moment.
Wedding non-negotiable? Good Champagne.
What would you do differently? We wouldn’t change a thing. It was the most perfect day.
The Bride
Emily Prain, 35
Profession Journalist
Parents David and Kathy Prain
Bridesmaids Vanessa Mullett and Leah Hannon
Dress Kate Willa
Hair DS Hair & Makeup
Make-up Makeup by Carly B
Flowers Caitielou Designs
Engagement ring MJS Jewellery
Wedding planner/stylist Port Douglas Weddings and Hire with wedding co-ordinator Jade Harold
The Groom
Damien Tomlinson, 43
Profession Journalist
Parents Max and Lorraine Tomlinson
Children Teddie, 3, and Emmett, 10 months
Groomsmen Julian Tomlinson and Nick Tomlinson
Suit Black Jacket Suiting
Entertainment Tuffy
Videographer Threadless Films
Celebrant Em’s childhood piano teacher, Rosina Santarossa
Caterer Nu Nu Restaurant
Cake The Hungry Hummingbird. Bottom tier was white chocolate mudcake and the top was chocolate almond
New ways to learn
State schools recognised in the Queensland Government’s Showcase awards are delivering excellence through.
‘I have no doubt we will win’: Dutton’s bold declaration on election eve
With a federal election expected to be called any day now, the man who wants to be Australia’s next prime minister tells Frances Whiting in an exclusive interview the ‘underdog’ LNP will win.