Ian and Stuart: Inspired by Their Neighbourhood
Captured by Damien Milan, Ian & Stuart's Sydney wedding was inspired by their neighbourhood. The gents wanted their family and friends to experience and enjoy the suburb that they live in; to get a glimpse of their way of life. Sydney's Paramount House Hotel played host to Ian & Stuart's wedding, and on the rooftop is where they said their 'I Do' and started their new journey in life.
Photographer Damien Milan Photography | Venue Paramount House Hotel
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How and when did you meet?
We met in Perth, in December 2013.
Ian, originally from South Africa - was living in Perth at the time and Stuart, originally from Perth, but living in Sydney, had gone home to visit family for Christmas.
As it turned out, Santa left a very different present under the tree for us that year.
Tell us a little about the first time you met?
The connection was fast and strong for both of us. We both knew something was up, but had no idea where that something was going. The one thing we both knew instantly was that this was not the last time we were going to meet.
What was the first thing you noticed about each other?
Ian: I noticed Stuart's salt and pepper sophistication and how well Stuart carried himself.
Stuart: I noticed Ian's huge arms and how nervous he seemed.
Have you ever faced any issues of non-acceptance?
Ian: Other than Stuart's absolute non-acceptance of my dishwasher packing abilities (or lack thereof...), we have both been very fortunate and have not been met with any non-acceptance from family, friends, work or travelling the world.
What does Marriage mean to you?
It's a partnership based on the right balance of challenge and support in all aspects of our lives.
Who proposed and how?
Ian: I proposed to Stuart on the shores of Wineglass Bay in Tasmania.
I had kept my secret on a long and rainy bush walk down to the Bay. Stuart did not keep his whingeing about bushwalking in the rain a secret at all.
When I got down on one knee, Stuart was genuinely overwhelmed with happiness - you could tell because he was silent for a full minute - and said yes emphatically.
When did you get married?
In January of 2020.
What was the main influence behind your wedding day?
Ian: Old School Charm - Stuart is a fan of mid-century design and the aesthetic of old school LA and Palm Springs.
Cabaret - Both Stuart and I fell even further in love over their shared love of Cabaret; both Cabaret the movie and seeing Cabaret performers belt out a few numbers. We have both sung the night away (badly) on many occasions.
What was the most important thing to you surrounding your wedding?
Both of us wanted our family and friends to experience and enjoy the suburb that we live in; to get a glimpse of our way of life. Most of all, we wanted a big party where everyone could kick their heels up!
Where did you find the bulk of your inspiration?
The neighbourhood in which we live.
How did you choose your suppliers?
We chose a mixture of friends and recommendations from friends in the business.
Any standout suppliers?
Tiana Catanzaro from Paramount Recreation Centre & Golden Age Bar.
Damien + Anastasia from Damien Milan Photography.
Ed West from Poho Flowers.
Trevor Ashley - cabaret performer - from Showworks Pty Ltd.
Did you find it difficult to translate more common traditions into a 'same-sex' wedding?
We steered away from the more traditional traditions, but kept those aspects that helped make the day special for our families and added a sense of occasion.
What was the most difficult thing about planning your wedding?
Honestly, the suppliers we worked with made the organisation of the event a breeze.
Where did you spend your honeymoon?
We will be spending their Honeymoon in Turkey later in the year.
Any advice for other couples planning their day and finding it challenging to navigate the journey?
Make sure you keep your event personal and a genuine reflection of you.
Don't try to make everything memorable, but go the extra mile for that one little (or big!) thing that really reflects you. We splurged on great quality champagne and an amazing Cabaret performer we both adore.
Suppliers
Photographer Damien + Anastasia from Damien Milan Photography
Venue Paramount House Hotel, Paramount Recreation Club & Golden Age Bar
Suits Hugo Boss
Flowers Ed West from Poho Flowers
Furniture Rebekah from Devine Events
Cabaret Performer Trevor Ashley from Showorks Pty Ltd
Music Oberon Lane - acoustic band Luxe & DJ
Ready to start planning your special day?
CLICK HERE
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