Julia and Sami spent the year leading up to their wedding apart, as Sami’s football contract took him to Sydney away from Julia and his home in Canberra. They spent every night on the phone telling each other about their day and planning their wedding. So it was extra special seeing them get married knowing that they can now be together again.

They incorporated a few unique cultural traditions into their day, and it was a real family celebration with everyone pitching in to help out. Family is obviously really important to both Sami and Julia. They made the most of their time with their guests by having dinner at the local Bowral pub the night before the wedding, and organising a BBQ lunch and games the next day.

Two of Sami’s cousins John and Jason built the arbor that stood behind Julia and Sami at their ceremony. The arbor florals, ceremony space and reception venue were styled by John’s awesome mother in law Vickie from Go Girls, who teamed up with Julia’s friends Chelsea and Bianca. Four wooden beams with hanging foliage and lighting were installed in the book barn, which matched the exposed beams of the reception venue. The night before the wedding Sami’s groomsmen helped attach all the foliage to the beams while Julia’s bridesmaids made their own bouquets. We think this is the perfect bonding activity with your besties! The bridesmaids came away from the experience with a much greater respect for florists and how hard they work!

Nesian Creations designed Sami’s Polynesian inspired ring. Husband and wife team Donna and Steve Roberts, with brother Euta and sister Aniva working behind the scenes, design jewellery influenced by Tapa cloth, Polynesian artwork and Tattoos. Julia wore a Leah Da Gloria gown that suited her perfectly.

The beautiful Bendooley Estate yet again provided exceptional food and service on their beautiful grounds near Berrima in the Southern Highlands. Lawn games and canapés began at the pavilion following the ceremony, where Julia and Sami chose to have the first half of their speeches before entering the book barn and continuing the festivities. The shared platters at the reception made for a communal dinner that reminded us of a big family gathering.

Sami and Julia are family to us and we were privileged to document their day through photographs, and to give them a gift that no one else can. We wish them both the very best in their future together, and we’re sure it will be filled with love and happiness.

Wedding Gown: Leah De Gloria
Stylist and Flowers: Go Girls and friends
Venue: Bendooley Estate
Ring: Nesian Creations

It was such a fun wedding that we had to include a photo of the joy on our faces! Anthea + Lyndon xo