My curveball wedding

Weddings are supposed to be perfect…so they say and most of them are but here is personal story about my curveball wedding.

2011 was dedicated to planning my wedding at the Sydney Opera House whilst running my PR agency; Magnet PR. We had a dream team of suppliers for our boutique styled wedding of 60 people with the ceremony held in the Northern Foyer and reception in the Utzon room. My dress was made by our client at the time, Sarah Janks and flowers where supplied by Susan Avery. I put together a candy bar myself with the help of my mother and my beautiful friend and incredible wedding planner; Anthony Del Col who helped make the day all come together. It was also an honor to have our cake made by Magnet’s long-standing client, the amazing Planet Cake. Our quirky celebrant was Elizabeth Trevan whom I just adore. Hair and make up I have to thank Simona Janek and last but not least documenting the day with photos, an incredible talent, Graham Monro from gm photographics.

There I was stressing over whether I should wear a veil or not a week before my wedding date, that the curveball came around and I found out I was pregnant. Totally unplanned, now I know why I was acting a little weird at my hen’s weekend, sorry about that ladies. As someone who was told by doctors I probably wouldn’t fall pregnant I was in total shock. I remember thinking, “hold on a minute, this is not how it normally happens, how could this be? Also, I just ordered $1000 worth of vintage Champagne and now I can’t drink it on my wedding day? Huh?” Those where my thoughts back then but now I am ever so thankful for my true wedding gift and realize nothing comes easy in this world - there is always sacrifice and I am happy my beautiful friends and family got to enjoy the Champagne.

On my actual wedding day I woke up with morning sickness and drove myself to acupuncture so I could try and not vomit on my beautiful bridal table arrangements. Thankfully it helped a lot.

I had no bridesmaids but a beautiful angel stepped in with a dress she made just for the occasion and with my beautiful mother, my husband to be’s niece and make up artist team I had an intimate and fun time getting ready for my wedding. That same angel (also an exceptional bridal dress designer) sat in the car with me holding my hand whilst I was frozen in fear driving to the Opera House; she was also my witness and is still to this day my dear friend. Why I was so nervous I will never know but I’m an Aquarian - a true free spirit with unconventional habits so this all felt quite conventional to me. Deep down I wanted to get married to my husband and one could say that the added curveball ‘gift’ pushed me down the aisle a bit more.

With eyes on me as I walked down the aisle, something I am not used to as for years I have made a career from putting others in the spotlight. As soon as I saw and held the hand of my husband to be and saw the boats on the Sydney harbour, nothing else seemed to matter but him and I in that moment. As soon as I saw my beautiful friend who was our celebrant and all those faces watching us witness our wedding it all started to come together.

I didn’t dance much or get up and socialize at the reception as the nausea due to my pregnancy crept in just to remind me not to drink that gorgeous Champagne but I remember my brother gave a great speech, our dear friend Shane did an incredible job as MC and my new husband did a superb job with his speech and socializing for the 2 of us. One nice moment was when I went to the bathroom, which was full of Opera House guests; as soon as they saw me in my dress they let me go in first – the power of a bride! When it was all over I fell into bed exhausted, I was always a girl who peeked at the party early. Looking back now, I realize how awesome it was that my little girl was present during our wedding day so it was all worth it. My amazing wedding planner friend who later died was also there on our day as he watches over me every day today. As where many family and friends who came from far away to share in our day, I say thank you to all of you for enjoying my curveball wedding, you and the memories of this special day are forever in my heart.

For all the ladies who are about to embark on the journey of marriage, I wish you all the best but remember to enjoy your day exactly as it is for it is a moment in time when everything is as it should be. If things don’t go as you had imagined on your day that is ok, everything is perfect so enjoy it for what is for one day 5 years later you will be looking back and telling your story as I just have. My curveball wedding.

Peace and love, Kim xo

The bride to be, waiting to go to the ceremony

CHON Thai opens in the heart of Sydney's inner West

Chon (Thai for spoon), located in the heart of Sydney’s inner West suburb of Balmain features a delicious menu of modern Thai made by renowned chef, Pacharin “Air” Jantrakool. The restaurant, created by Michael Corrente’ also owner of Balmain institution, Blue Ginger nearby on Darling Street.

The BYO, 2-story restaurant houses 120 people and the menu boosts explosions of flavour from a large variety of appetizers, shared plates, salads, stir-fry’s, curries and deserts all inspired from Northern Thailand where chef originates. Chon’s wine list is interesting yet modest featuring quality wines perfectly matched to the menu.

With a large focus on excellent service, Chon’s interior is simple and fresh featuring white washed walls, polished concrete floors and the ceiling a sea of white paper lanterns dancing in the breeze.

About Michael Corrente’

Michael Corrente’ is no stranger to the Sydney restaurant business. He started out learning the basics in a busy, high volume function center 22 years ago it was not long before he became the new kid on the block opening his first restaurant on Norton St, Café Norton. Having been involved in 25 restaurants – some notable ones include Café Norton, Luna Blu on Norton Street, Big Muma’s in Woollahra and 17 years ago opened Blue Ginger in Balmain. Michael is passionate about great food and wine, trying new food and cultures around the world and family. Travelling frequently to Asia on a culinary tour he likes to keep in touch with Asian cuisine worldwide. A lover of flavorsome street food using local produce and ingredients handmade, one can easily see where his inspiration came from for Chon Thai.

ABOUT PACHARIN “AIR” JANTRAKOOL – CHEF AT CHON.

Born in Chang Mai in Northern Thailand, chef Air as we know her is the youngest in a family of 13. She studied a bachelor’s degree in food and nutrition as well as in teaching and started out her career educating high school students about food and nutrition. After the death of her parents she moved to Sydney in 1990 to pursue her dream of cooking and living in Sydney. After completing her masters in communication she worked at renowned Thai restaurant, Sailor’s Thai in the Rocks. After this closed she opened her own restaurant with a partner, ‘Tapioca’ in Cremorne which sold to then spend some time consulting to restaurants in Melbourne.

Air began working at Chon as head Chef since it’s opening in December 2015. She is passionate about modern Thai cuisine taught to her from a young age by her mother. She prides herself in using seasonal produce and making all ingredients from scratch, all her herbs are brought in from Thailand and she uses only the best quality meat Sydney has on offer. She takes great pleasure in creating new dishes and seeing people satisfied and happy after they have eaten her delicious, mouth watering creations.

Check out their new site designed by Greg Le Sueur and Magnet PR http://www.chonthai.com.au Images by Rose Photos. For all PR opportunities and images contact Kim Veverka-Bray, kim@magnetpr.com.au

Betel Leaf with smoked trout, ginger, lime, roasted coconut and caramelized palm sugar

Grilled scallop with mint, coriander, red shallots and chilli lime dressing

Braised ox cheek massaman curry with sweet potatoes and onion

Dessert

Upstairs at Chon Thai

Ambiance downstairs

LUOM.O launches her 2016 Winter Bridal Collection

Australian Fashion and bridal designer brand LUOM.O is proud to present their 2016 bridal gown collection, 'Mystical Wonderland' at their Sydney studio.

Designer Luom Ousby was inspired by the beautiful Guipure French lace seen throughout this collection of 12 new bridal gowns. The gowns made in the finest silk satin feature long sleeves and floaty panels to creating a romantic feel, perfect for the Autumn/Winter months. The ‘Mystical Wonderland’ collection is suited to the non-traditional yet modern 'Vogue' Bride – she is edgy, free spirited yet always elegant.

About LUOM.O: Vietnam born and raised in New Zealand, designer behind the brand, Luom Ousby started designing bridal gowns and trading as her own brand in 2004 after she designed her own wedding gown. Falling in love with beautiful fabrics and laces, Luom always knew from a young age she wanted to have her own label and graduated in 1996 with a Diploma in Textile and Design, at the Wanganui Institute of Design, New Zealand. Previously to this after moving to Sydney she gained valuable experience working as a junior designer and pattern maker for various Australian labels. Her inspiration comes from Art, Photography and Music but is especially inspired by Architecture and Photography. Locally, she respects and admires designer’s, Sass and Bide for their incredible brand as well as Delta Goodrem’s effortless style. On an international scale she loves Victoria Beckham and how she has transformed herself into a stylish designer with her simplistic style. Luom Ousby is passionate about designing and being creative on a daily basis with her pet Chihuahua, Edi by her side. She also makes special thanks her family support for helping her become the Australian designer she is today.

With special thanks to Sparkle Cupcakery and Susan Avery Flowers for our media showing event today!

 LUOM.O’s boutique is by appointment only and can be found at 200 Oxford Street, Paddington and website http://www.luomo.com.au/

 For media enquiries and all imagery, please contact: Kim Veverka-Bray, Magnet PR on email: kim@magnetpr.com.au or phone: 0414640290

Australian designer, LUOM.O triumph’s in the Big Apple

This year, women’s bridal and gown designer Luom Ousby was proud to debut her brand, LUOM.O’s Spring/Summer 2016 collection at New York Fashion Week (NYFW) as well as using the New York backdrop as their stage for 4 collaborative styled fashion shoots.

In a nod to her host city, LUOM.O’s Spring/Summer 2016 “Prey” collection was inspired by New York itself. From the majesty of The Empire State Building, to the cobble stoned streets of SoHo, LUOM.O’s “Prey” draws its essence from the architecture, the ambience and the myriads of people walking the streets of the City that never sleeps.

Ousby enlisted the help of her trusted team of talented industry experts to collaborate with her during her time in New York. Award winning Makeup Artist and Founder and Director of the Paddington based Makeup and Hair Boudoir, Sabrina Melei http://www.makeupboudoir.com/ continued her long standing creative relationship with Ousby, along with Hair Stylist Natalie Wakim. Also joining the trio was Sydney based photographer Frank Farrugia http://www.frankfarrugia.com/

In the week leading up to LUOM.O’s runway show the Creative Team took to the streets of New York completely overwhelmed with inspiration, they achieved 4 separate fashion shoots in 5 days.

Stopping traffic and closing down streets along the way, the creative team started their story in mid-town Manhattan. Inspired by the art deco architecture the team perfectly encapsulated the old school charm of 1920’s New York in a glamour rich shoot. Moving on to Williamsburg, Brooklyn the following day, the Creative Team drew on the urban appeal of the area highlighting the contrasting elegance of the collection. Day three saw the team remain in Brooklyn relocating to DUMBO. With the old railways and cobble-stoned lanes the setting and the view of Manhattan as the backdrop, this shoot was inspired by the dreamers of the city and the fierce creatures of the night.

A chance encounter was the highlight of the Creative Team’s final day of shooting, while shooting in the streets of SoHo the team happened upon internationally renowned photographer and director Neal Slavin, perched peacefully on his stoop penning some poetry in the company of his energetic pooch, Harriette. The team took the opportunity to capture the moment in a photo that has quickly become a favourite for each of the artists.

 After wrapping up a marathon 5 days of shooting, the culmination of months of hard work, brainstorming and sleepless nights was realized with the debut of LUOM.O’s “Prey” collection at Fashion Palette New York Fashion Week.

Ousby said about the experience “I’m overjoyed to have had the opportunity to showcase my collection at New York Fashion Week. The collection has had a great response and the connections and networks I’ve been able to tap into have been invaluable. It’s been an unforgettable experience and my thanks and deepest gratitude goes to my Creative Team whose creative collaboration has been a source of much inspiration.”

LUOM.O’s boutique can be found at 200 Oxford Street, Paddington and website http://www.luomo.com.au/ For media enquiries and all imagery, please contact: Kim Veverka-Bray, Magnet PR on email: kim@magnetpr.com.au or phone: 0414640290

About LUOM.O: Vietnam born and raised in New Zealand, designer behind the brand, Luom Ousby started designing bridal gowns and trading as her own brand in 2004 after she designed her own wedding gown. Falling in love with beautiful fabrics and laces, Luom always knew from a young age she wanted to have her own label and graduated in 1996 with a Diploma in Textile and Design, at the Wanganui Institute of Design, New Zealand. Previously to this after moving to Sydney she gained valuable experience working as a junior designer and pattern maker for various Australian labels. Her inspiration comes from Art, Photography and Music but is especially inspired by Architecture and Photography. Locally, she respects and admires designer’s, Sass and Bide for their incredible brand as well as Jodi Gordan-Anasta’s effortless style. On an international scale she loves Victoria Beckham and how she has transformed herself into a stylish designer with her simplistic style. Luom Ousby is passionate about designing and being creative on a daily basis with her pet Chihuahua, Edi by her side. She also makes special thanks her family support for helping her become the Australian designer she is today.

MM Photos celebrates 5 years!

Eastern suburbs based MM PHOTOS take Pride in shooting weddings and Portraiture and this year they celebrate five years. Photos live On for generations and are treasured by family members of any age.

Founder Michael Martin says, “Photography is my lifelong passion and creative expression. Everyone’s ultimate dream is to make a living doing what he or she love’s and I am truly blessed and grateful, to be living my dream”.

Inspiration to begin MM PHOTOS began after working for Sydney’s top 2 wedding photography businesses. Now the studio prides itself on producing a customised and personal service for their clients. From the first moment one walks into the studio they are given the VIP treatment. Once booked they receive a celebrative gift and at all times meet with the photographer who will be shooting their event. The photographer takes time to get to know the personality of the couple so that they feel relaxed and happy to be themselves. “We believe this personalised service is the winning formula to capture the best possible photos on their special day”, says Michael. “We offer engagement shoots, a nice way to warm up to your wedding and are proud to say we end up documenting family and pet portraits through to pregnancy shots as clients trust us and covet our work”, he says.

Photographers at MM PHOTOS go to great lengths to get the perfect shots such as lying on the ground, climbing on roofs and through bushes, even hanging upside down! These are a sample of the many ways this studio captures the moment unobtrusively. They can also provide the use of a drone to capture fantastic aerial images. Take a look at their photographic magic on their new website http://mmphotos.com.au

About MM PHOTOS: Michael Martin the man behind MM PHOTOS has always had a passion for photography. From a young age he was inspired by his father whom shared the same passion and enjoyed shooting personalities. Michael completed many professional courses and worked for Sydney’s top wedding and portrait studios before launching. Michael found a mentor in chief street shooter, Marco Bok a man who taught him to live through his lens.

He is personally avid about his family and friends and his dog (Charlie Brown) who makes a guest appearance on the company website and would get away snowboarding any chance he could. Michael knows first hand what it takes to plan a wedding as he recently married Karen in beautiful Byron Bay. Karen has joined the team managing MM PHOTOS through her valuable corporate experience keeping the team in line. The studio takes pride in shooting for charitable events such as the Australian Jewish Fertility Network and the annual Shine and Dine dinner.

Please enjoy some of their beautiful images below!

For more information visit http://mmphotos.com.au and follow us on social media:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mmphotosaustralia
Instagram: https://instagram.com/mmphotosaus/ 

Stacey and Hoppo's wedding. You may have seen Hoppo on TV Show Bondi Rescue

WEOA launches Australian Bridal Fashion Week!

Australia’s wedding industry body, Wedding and Events of Australia (WEOA) launched the first ever Australian Bridal Fashion Week (ABFW) in Sydney on June 5-7th, 2015 at the Australian Technology Park.

Magnet PR & Events was proud to handle all communications and marketing for the inaugural event and oh what a big job it was! we are proud to say we secured local and international media, key brand alignments and part of the overall event concept making sure everyone knew about this key event in Australian history of fashion and bridal.

International and local bridal fashion buyers, media, top wedding industry professionals and bride to be’s came into Sydney from all over to see Australia’s finest bridal gown designers launch their new collections upon the impressive 40-meter runway.

The official media and VIP launch is held on Friday 5th of June with special guest’s Network Ten’s newsreader, Jessica Turner and Tara O’Keefe along with 150 VIP’s all gathered to get their photo on the red carpet, enjoy Oyster Bay wine’s and delicious items form the Salt Meats Cheese grazing table as they mingled and grooved to the tunes of the ABFW band, Duke. Guests where then treated to a sneak peak runway show of one gown from each designer participating in ABFW.

With 19 shows held across the weekend of Saturday 6th and 7th of June, ABFW designers on the runway included:

Saturday 6th of June 2015:                                        

10am – Liz Martinez - http://www.lizmartinez.co.il

Sarah Joseph - http://www.sarahjosephcouture.com

Mariana Hardwick - http://marianahardwick.com.au

Diane Lewis Couture - http://www.dianelewiscouture.com.au

2pm – LUOMO - http://www.luomo.com.au

Avari couture Collection - http://www.avaricouture.com.au

White Runway - http://whiterunway.com.au

Stellini Cute Couture: https://www.stellinacutecouture.com.au

Forever Vintage Couture: http://www.forevervintage.net.au

Emerging Designers: Tanya Anic: http://www.tanyaanic.com

 Nahida Alayan & Sant Ella: http://www.santelia.com.au/

 Sunday 7th of June 2015

10am – Forever Vintage Bridesmaid - http://www.forevervintage.net.au

SJ Lingerie - https://sjlingerie.com.au

For the Love of Grace - http://fortheloveofgrace.com.au

Stellini Cute Couture: https://www.stellinacutecouture.com.au

2pm – Johanna Johnson - https://www.johannajohnson.com

Leah Da Gloria - http://www.leahdagloria.com.au

Jennifer Regan - http://www.jenniferregan.com.au

Anna Campbell and Akira Isogawa - finale

Between runway shows guests could get up close and personal with the designer’s and their gowns, bridesmaids dresses, men's suiting, footwear, headpieces, accessories, jewellery and juniors fashion. Guests sat back and relaxed with a glass of bubbles in the champagne bar or indulged in the ABFW beauty room  where they had make over’s & lashes by Harlotte cosmetics - http://harlotte.com.au/flash.htm and nail’s by Italian brand FABY, Australia http://faby.com.au and unwinding in the Four Points by Sheraton lounge.

About Wedding & Events of Australia (WEOA): WEOA supports and educates elite brands in the Australian wedding industry. As the industry body, WEOA facilitates connectivity and support and recognizing excellence in business through the annual Wedding Industry Professionals of Australia (WIPA) awards as well the ‘WEOA Summit’ (launching 2016), which will allow members to be inspired by industry leaders.

Select Photography below from Damien Ford Photography

Jessica Turner, Jessica Eckford Aguilera and Tara O'Keefe wearing Leah Da Gloria 

Tanya Anic Bridal with Paspaley Pearls necklace

Forever Vintage Bridal

Leah Da Gloria showstopper gown

Leah Da Gloria Bridal

Liz Martinez bridal

Akira Isogawa

Sarah Joseph Couture

Diane Lewis

Johanna Johnson & Farage for men

Backstage atmosphere

Stellini Cute Couture