Love Blooms in Toowoomba: Maddie & Hayden's Enchanting Ceremony

MADDIE & HAYDEN

MADDIE WEARS OUR HONEY SANDALS IN BLUE

Photography by Jessica Stannard Photography

How was your experience as a Forever Soles bride?

I had a wonderful experience exploring and shopping for my wedding shoes, as I found Forever Soles early on when browsing for shoes that I could picture myself wearing. I instantly loved the styles I saw on Instagram and as soon as I saw the Blue Honey Heels I was in love. The purchase was so easy and my shoes were delivered with care in such thoughtful, elegant packaging. I tried them on straight away and loved putting them on in sneaky moments at home to walk around in.

Which shoes did you wear for your wedding? What was your favourite thing about your shoes?

The Honey Sandals in Blue. Definitely the colour, my favourite colour is blue and I knew I wasn't after more traditional white bridal shoes. I also loved the bow tie up and how comfortable they were to wear for my entire day and night!

How did you and your husband meet?

We met during our first year of university through our mutual best friends. We quickly hit it off as friends and I felt like I'd always known him.

How long have you been together and how did he propose?

Hayden and I have now been together for 7 years and were engaged in 2022. My proposal was so romantic, and a complete surprise to me. We went to Noosa for a day (I thought), staying at my parents' friend's beautiful apartment. As soon as I opened the door I saw rose petals on the floor and music playing, and immediately was in awe as I knew what was happening but had no idea prior. After the proposal my parents and sister arrived and we all celebrated that weekend which was so lovely to have them share in the occasion.

What is the most amazing thing about your man?

I'd say his humour and caring nature.

How would you describe your wedding in one word?

Magical and fun (to pick two!)

What is your favourite memory from your wedding?

My favourite memory was after Hayden and I had our night photos taken we wandered back to the ceremony spot and could see and hear our guests on the dance floor from there. We both had our own boogie and loved watching them having the best time from afar (and seeing all the coloured glow sticks lighting the place up which we snagged for $1 each and highly rate haha).

Where was your wedding located? What made you choose this location?

We got married in Toowoomba at Preston Peak Functions, which was truly our perfect venue. We checked out a lot of venues that met our ideal of a hinterland/scenic wedding and this was the last venue we went to see. The beautiful mountain backdrop, stunning hybrid outdoor ceremony space and entire grounds were incredible and we felt so welcomed when we first explored. We didn't initially plan on a Winter wedding, especially not in Toowoomba, but the weather magically turned on a beautiful day for us and we're so glad we chose June.

Who created your gorgeous gown?

My wedding gown was designed by Romanova Atelier and I found it at Luxe Bridal, a beautiful boutique in Toowoomba owned by the lovely Kellie Stevens. Similar to venues, I had gone to and tried on so many dresses and had good feelings about a few but until I put on this gown didn't have the "this is the one" thought. I know I wanted something rather classic and the gown I chose felt very like me. I absolutely loved the puff sleeves which came with the gown as I popped them on for my reception entrance and the dance floor.

You're a wife now! How does it feel to finally tie the knot?

It feels so great, and looking/thinking back on the memories of the anticipation leading into the wedding, and the amazing happiness on the day is so heartwarming. It doesn't feel too different once you get back into the swing of reality afterwards, after all you're carrying on life with your best friend. But the love bubble is definitely real.

Where did you go on your honeymoon?

We stayed at the most breathtaking cottage in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, close to Maleny. It was an Airbnb called 'Burgess Cottage' at Bald Knob, which we found through Instagram a year or so earlier and booked ASAP for 3 nights after our wedding. Even though it was a decent drive from Toowoomba it was well worth it and the perfect place for us to unwind and relax together. We are heading to Europe for a month long holiday shortly which is our bigger delayed honeymoon, but our mini honeymoon will always be the most special place which we hope to come back to (ideally every year would be nice!). I wish I could gatekeep but go check it out!

Any advice for our brides-to-be?

Everyone told me this, but only afterwards did I realise how true it is - the days surrounding and wedding itself go by so so quickly. Taking at least a small bit of time with your husband after the ceremony is finished (at any time you like), to just chat and feel the adrenaline and emotions together was so nice and we remember those moments so fondly. Everyone is there to celebrate you and your love, and it's the best day you'll ever have.