How these NSW couples celebrated their love with a bang
This Sydney couple had a chance encounter at a car meet. And now after being married that shared passion has become a key part of their relationship.
NSW
Don't miss out on the headlines from NSW. Followed categories will be added to My News.
It’s often the blend of timeless customs and personal touches that help make for a couple’s perfect day.
From weddings on Sydney’s pristine waterfront to venues tucked away in the sticks. The Telegraph has covered them all.
Every week, this masthead features pictures and all the details from one couple’s special day. Here are some of the weddings we have featured so far this year.
Isabella and Braydon Watkins
When and where married September 15, 2024, at The Barn Stormhill in Oakdale.
Dress Isabella’s Tania Olsen gown was purchased from Beautiful Brides Leumeah, and featured a strapless sweetheart neckline, with a fitted, beaded bodice and a full, flowing tulle skirt.
Honeymoon Trip to The Beachcomber hotel in Toukley.
Photography M.Robertson Photos
Isabella met Braydon in 2022 after a chance encounter at a car meet in Auburn, where she was taking her younger brother.
“Braydon’s always loved his cars, and now it’s become a staple in our relationship, with weekly cars and coffee events,” she says.
But it wasn’t just a shared love of engines that sparked something between them.
“I think the biggest attraction was our mindsets,” Isabella says.
“From the start, we both knew what we wanted and how to support each other in reaching our goals – both individually and together.”
Fitness and adventure also play a big part in their life: “We love staying active and exploring new places, whether it’s trying out a hiking trail or discovering a new beach.”
About a year into their relationship, the couple had already picked out Isabella’s engagement ring together from Simon Curwood Jewellers. The custom piece had been crafted over six weeks.
Then, on Friday, December 15, 2023, Braydon proposed during a portrait session at Sandon Point in Bulli.
What seemed like a simple photo shoot to Isabella – helping a friend who was building her photography portfolio – was actually part of a carefully planned surprise.
“He waited until the very end of the shoot, then got down on one knee as the sun was setting on the rocks,” Isabella recalls.
“Even though we’d already chosen the ring, I was completely caught off guard. It was such a perfect, beautiful moment – I couldn’t have asked for anything more.”
For their wedding, the couple chose to exchange vows at The Barn Stormhill, followed by a stunning reception at Moses Barnes in Picton.
“We chose Moses Barnes because they offered a cocktail-style reception, and they were able to cater pizza – our favourite food – which made for an unforgettable night.”
“Our wedding day was incredible, we started getting ready in houses next to each other which made the excitement grow when I was sneaking looks through the window to see him.”
Braydon arrived in a vintage Pontiac Firebird with his best man, followed by his groomsmen in an old VR Holden Commodore.
The bridesmaids made their entrance in an old VS Holden Commodore, and Isabella was driven by her dad and grandparents in her grandfather’s 2016 ClubSport Black Edition Holden VF.
“It was such a special day, with everyone playing a part – big or small.
“A lot of happy tears were shed, and so many joyful moments were shared.”
“My favourite part was our first dance. After a few hiccups, it was a wonderful way to kick off the formalities.”
Glen D’Souza, 44, and Samantha Edwards, 42
When and where married: March 22, 2025, at Public Dining Room, Balmoral Beach, Sydney.
Dress: Samantha’s wedding gown was made by Louise Alvarez, a talented designer located on Sydney’s North Shore. The gown featured soft satin silk in blush and ivory embroidered tulle.
Honeymoon: Time with loved ones at Balmoral after the wedding. They hope to honeymoon later.
Photography: Chris Prestidge, atdusk.com.au
While Covid proved a time where many felt disconnected, it was quite the opposite for Glen and Samantha.
Though they had known each other for years, it was during the quiet, uncertain days of 2021 that Glen and Samantha truly reconnected.
As the world slowed down, their story picked up pace – what began as casual catch-ups quickly blossomed into something much deeper.
“We fell in love over the next couple of years,” Samantha says.
“We enjoyed weekends away, sailing trips, and an unforgettable holiday to Hawaii.”
It was Glen’s ability to always make Samantha laugh – paired with his big smile, confidence, and intelligence – that drew her in.
Glen, in turn, was charmed by Samantha’s easygoing and social nature.
“I always felt relaxed and at ease in her presence,” he says.
As a bonus, Glen’s skills in the kitchen didn’t go unnoticed – Samantha was more than happy to be cooked for.
By June 2023, the pair were deeply in love and planning a family getaway to Bermuda with Glen’s twins, Eleanor and Alexander, to visit Samantha’s relatives.
It was there, during a short stay at a beachside resort, that Glen surprised Samantha with a proposal at sunset on their balcony.
Just a few months later, in December 2023, their family grew with the arrival of baby Jake, adding another joyful chapter to their already rich love story.
When it came time to tie the knot, there was no question that the ocean would play a starring role.
“We chose the Public Dining Room, Balmoral Beach, because the restaurant is located on the beach, has beautiful views and excellent food.
“We both love being near the ocean. I grew up on the island of Bermuda and Glen loves to sail.”
The wedding day itself was a relaxed celebration of love, family, and togetherness.
While the men and boys spent the morning kayaking at Balmoral, the ladies and girls enjoyed getting their hair and make-up done nearby.
The sunlit beachfront served as the perfect backdrop for family photos before the ceremony started.
And the ceremony was the highlight of the day. In a beautiful and symbolic gesture, Glen and Samantha walked down the aisle hand-in-hand.
Eleanor and Alexander proudly served as ring bearers, and baby Jake insisted on being held by his dad throughout the vows – making the moment even more special.
“The five of us walked back down the aisle together after we were officially married,” Samantha says.
Paul, 51, and Yuki Frank, 50
When and where married: March 8, 2025, at Long Reef Golf Club, Collaroy.
Dress: Yuki found her dream ROSA CLARÁ gown at Marry Me Bridal in Mosman, falling in love with it the moment she saw it in the shop window.
Honeymoon: Europe in September and October 2025.
Photography: Chris Prestidge at dusk.com.au
For Paul and Yuki, it all began with a simple online connection that led to a magical first date on March 3, 2020, in Manly.
Their seaside meeting marked the beginning of a beautiful love story – one that would stretch across continents, cultures, and ultimately, down the aisle.
“I love how open-minded and friendly Paul is,” Yuki says.
For Paul, it was Yuki’s warmth and gentle spirit that had him instantly hooked, “Yuki is very caring and beautiful both inside and out,” he says.
As their relationship grew, so did their shared joys – raising their beloved dog, Lucy, and cat, Daisy, going to live shows, dining out, and chasing adventures together around the world.
It was during one of those adventures that Paul popped the question – on his very first visit to Japan.
After meeting Yuki’s parents, Paul found a stunning garden in Kyoto and, with his mother’s engagement ring in hand, asked Yuki to marry him.
Kyoto holds a special place in their hearts, but when it came to planning their wedding, they chose somewhere closer to home – Long Reef.
“During Covid lockdown, we spent a lot of time in Long Reef, and now, living locally, it felt only fitting to share this slice of life with our loved ones,” Yuki says.
With 100 guests in attendance, including friends and family who travelled all the way from Japan, the celebration was both intimate and unforgettable.
The star of the show?
Their one-year-old pup Lucy, of course.
Dressed for the occasion and with a glint of pride, she walked down the aisle as the ring bearer, charming every guest along the way.
“We were so happy to have her there on the day – she behaved herself beautifully and she was the star of the show.”
Another deeply touching part of the day was the presence of Yuki’s elderly parents, visiting Australia for the first time.
Though they didn’t speak English and initially found it hard to get around, they were embraced by the love and warmth of the event.
“They had a wonderful time at the wedding, and now they are already planning their return to Australia,” says Yuki.
“Everybody seemed to have a good time dancing, mingling and enjoying the relaxed atmosphere without travelling from ceremony to reception.”
Amrinder Dhaliwal and Karissa Breen
When and where married: June 8, 2024, at Guru Nanak Gurudwara, Turramurra
Dress: Karissa’s lehenga was made by Payal and Pasand, and her lace wedding gown, with long sleeves and a handcuff, was designed with TwoBirds Bridal
Honeymoon: Las Vegas mini-moon
Photography: Riss Productions
Amrinder Dhaliwal and Karissa Breen’s journey to forever began in the most unexpected way – through work.
“We originally first met each other through work, but we just knew each other as peers,” Amrinder says.
It wasn’t until years later, in 2018, that a mutual friend played matchmaker, suggesting that the two should go on a date.
“She sold Karissa the dream that I loved buying bottles of champagne,” Amrinder adds with a grin.
Using this bit of leverage, Amrinder waited for Karissa’s move.
“Karissa being direct ended up asking me out, and we’ve been together ever since.”
Their differences, rather than causing friction, became the glue that held them together.
“They say opposites attract. We’re definitely opposite, and that was also reflected in our vows to one another,” Amrinder says.
Karissa agrees, adding, “We commend each other on our differences and appreciate that we each have strengths the other doesn’t.”
The proposal was nothing short of magical.
Amrinder chose the picturesque Loews Santa Monica, Los Angeles, for his proposal, offering Karissa a view of the iconic Santa Monica Pier.
“I proposed to Karissa during sunset on December 16, 2022,” Amrinder says.
With the sun setting behind them, Amrinder asked Karissa to be his forever, marking the beginning of a new chapter in their lives.
For their wedding, the couple knew they wanted something special that reflected both their backgrounds and love for the water.
They chose Pier One, Sydney Harbour Autograph Collection for their Irish-Italian ceremony and final reception.
“We love being by the water, and our wedding was during Vivid, so we also had the magical lights on the harbour go past, which was an added bonus,” Amrinder says.
The venue’s breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour were the perfect backdrop for their big day.
The wedding was a blend of cultures, a three-part celebration that spanned multiple days, with guests ranging from 60 to 160 attending the various events.
Each part of the wedding was designed to bring together their loved ones in a way that honoured their shared history and future.
“We kicked off a week earlier with a Sangeet (which is a pre-wedding celebration) which is part of the Indian tradition.
“We dressed in Indian, danced and indulged in Indian food accompanied by some pre-wedding traditions.
“The following week we all got up incredibly early for the traditional Sikh wedding in the Gurudwara which is always in the morning.
“Our final event concluded with our Italian/Irish ceremony which included bagpipes, violinists, dancers and drums to bring in some of the Indian blend and some Tarantella dancing.
“We wanted to incorporate all of the cultures in the last event and some people described our wedding as the United Nations wedding.”
KANE GARDNER, 33, & KYLIEE GARDNER, 35
When and where married: November 23, 2023, at Bathers Pavilion, Balmoral.
Dress: Kyliee’s dress featured a delicate lace bodice that flowed into a caged skirt layered with intricate lace and finished with a sweeping train.
Photography: Jason from Splendid photography
Some love stories are written in fate, others in shared passions, and some – like Kyliee and Kane’s – begin in the bustling world of hospitality.
In 2015, Kyliee started working at The Star, where Kane had just been promoted to manager. The two crossed paths in the vast workplace but ran in different circles.
“We weren’t exactly friends to start, but as the years passed and our relationship statuses changed, we became fast friends and found comfort in each other,” Kyliee says.
“By late 2018, our connection deepened, but we had to keep our relationship under wraps around the workplace.
“What attracted me most to Kane is his logical and emotional intelligence – no surprise, given he grew up with four sisters.
“I, on the other hand, am a neurodivergent, artistically minded only child.
“In many ways, we’re complete opposites, but somehow, we just fit.”
Despite their differences, the pair connected over an equal love for tattoos, heavy metal and a shared sense of adventure.
“One of our first dates even involved me tagging along while he got a tattoo.
“Ironically, I had three firm dating ‘no’s’: no smoking, no tattoos on men, and no workplace romances.
“Kane, of course, broke all three rules. But as I got to know him, those hard ‘no’s’ turned into easy ‘yes’s’ – and I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
Six months into their relationship, Kyliee and Kane found out they were expecting their first child. A year later, Kane planned a heartfelt proposal at Gordons Bay.
“He set up a cosy beachside picnic with cushions and a grazing platter, and as he dropped to one knee, our friends jumped out from behind the rocks in celebration.
“It was a magical moment, they even made a onesie for our daughter that said, ‘Mummy Said Yes!’”
For the wedding venue, the couple chose Bathers’ Pavilion at Balmoral Beach for its in-house catering, breathtaking ocean views and space for both ceremony and reception.
With 77 of their nearest and dearest, an abundance of cocktails, and a day of joyous celebrations, Kyliee and Kane’s wedding was a day they’ll cherish forever.
“On the morning of the big day, a professional make-up artist took charge of glamming my bridal party, while Kane and his groomsmen prepared in another suite.
“The November weather was cool, a relief for me, as I was six months pregnant.
“The ceremony was intimate and filled with laughter and heartfelt speeches.
“As a surprise, they turned the cake cutting into a gender reveal – Kane, unaware which tier was real, fumbled through three foam layers before slicing into the actual cake – revealing we were expecting another baby girl.
“The day was everything we had ever hoped for, a beautiful start to our forever.”
ELLE SIMPSON, 35, AND ALEX RYAN, 34
When and where married January 6, 2025, at Riverlea Estate in Warrandyte, Victoria.
Dress Elle wore an ivory lace A-line gown from Melbourne designer Anna Campbell, featuring a square neckline, low back, and a long train.
Honeymoon Pre-honeymoon Europe trip.
Elle and Alex’s love story didn’t start with fireworks – it started with forgotten lunches.
When Alex joined Elle’s company on a contract in 2022, they sat next to each other every day, oblivious to anything more. It wasn’t until a colleague and Elle’s mum nudged them that they started to see it.
Alex never brought lunch, so Elle conveniently began to “forget” hers, too, giving them an excuse to step out together.
Soon, those casual lunches turned into something they both looked forward to. Elle took the leap, inviting Alex to an exhibition at The Lume for their first real date.
“We both love wine, and going to wineries together is something we enjoy,” says Alex. “We also fuel each other’s travel bug, which sparked a three-month adventure through Auckland, New York, the UK, France, Norway, and Turkey, where we made some of our favourite memories.
“If you can survive three months of travel together, you know you’ll survive marriage.”
When it came time to propose, Alex initially wanted to have a bit of a tease, so he bought a packet of five cheap rings. While they were travelling in France, he secretly left one on Elle’s handbag strap, another attached to her necklace, one under her wine glass, and another mixed with her other rings.
The final one, he saved for the big moment – to propose while in Norway.
“We sailed through Lofoten Islands during the midnight sun,” Elle says. “Alex decided it would be the perfect place to propose. He could not have picked a more perfect location – we were the only boat in the Hauklandstranda Bay, the rest of our crew were on shore (and) Alex asked me if I would marry him … I said ‘yes’.
“We’d picked out a ring prior to our travels and Alex bought the real engagement ring to give to me when we got back.
“I just had no idea when he was actually going to propose.”
They chose Riverlea Estate for its perfect blend of their dream winery wedding and intimate setting. The Blossom Room, with its sandstone walls, faux blossom tree, natural light, and fountain, provided a stunning backdrop for their reception.
“The wedding day didn’t start as planned – it poured all morning, the only rain Melbourne had in two weeks,” Elle says. “Our outdoor ceremony was moved to the marquee, and as I was getting my hair done, the power went out. I finished getting ready at the hairdresser’s house, while Alex couldn’t get a taxi and his sister had to drive him at the last minute.
“Despite the bumpy start, the rest of the day was beautiful. A highlight for me was hearing Alex’s vows and saying mine in front of all the people we love, even though the microphones didn’t work, so not everyone heard (another minor hiccup).
“Hearing our close friends and family give speeches was emotional, and having my sister, Caitlin, there – after missing her wedding due to Covid – meant so much.
“Of course, wearing my dream dress and feeling like a princess for the day was unforgettable.
“The day flew by, and in the end it’s the little moments and photos that are all you have to remember it by.”
Originally published as How these NSW couples celebrated their love with a bang
Why tourism campaign gives icons a holiday
Bondi Beach and the Opera House are out and the Blue Mountains and Burwood Chinatown are in under a major shake-up to NSW’s domestic tourism campaign.
‘Silent disaster’: Half of NSW affected by drought by August
As the Mid-North Coast reels in the wake of devastating floods, a crippling drought has taken hold in the south, turning thriving properties into barren dustbowls.