Ali and Alissa wove a tale that began in 2018, blossoming in Sydney’s vibrant culture, their love story unfolded against the backdrop of gelato runs, beach days, and wild adventures through Sydney’s best restaurants. and they finally tied the knot in a mesmerizing wedding in 2022. The wedding embraced their Italian and Egyptian cultures, surrounded by love and laughter of their nearest and dearest.
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How They Met
The couple met in early 2018 at a mutual friend’s birthday party and hit it off immediately! They made it official in September of the same year. Ali and Alissa shared that there was always an undeniable feeling that they were meant to be together, having so much in common and such a strong, beautiful connection.
Four years later, Ali proposed on a sun-soaked Shark Island after a scenic sea plane ride over Sydney Harbour. The proposal was nothing short of cinematic. Ali pulled out a large box; a ‘birthday gift’ for Alissa, who was met with photos, roses, all her favorite snacks, and – accompanied by a succession of diminishing boxes, each unveiling an intimate layer of their shared narrative. Alissa, on the brink of expectation, discovered a note teasing, ‘Just a little bit further’. The crescendo reached its peak when she opened the tiniest box, only to find it empty. In that moment of suspense, she looked up to encounter Ali, on one knee with a ring gleaming in hand. Alissa’s affirmative ‘Yes!’ echoed against the scenic backdrop, and the two celebrated with a surprise lunch with their families.
Inspiration Behind The Theme
For Ali and Alissa, family and culture were the heartbeat of their wedding. Hailing from big Italian and Egyptian families, they wanted every guest to feel like an extension of their own kin. Thus, “La Dolce Vita” with a modern twist became the theme, transporting guests to a Tuscan mansion adorned with overgrown vines, manicured greenery, and the faint echoes of Nonno’s laughter. It was a trip to Italy without the airfares or jet lag!
The Bride’s Gown
Alissa’s gown, a showstopper from the Liz Martinez La Mariee SS23′ collection, was a sight to behold. The Jean Gown, with its corset-like bodice, delicate pearl and crystal beading, and a dramatic touch of feathers, perfectly encapsulated Alissa’s personality—modern, timeless, and full of flair. The custom train extension elevated the drama, making it a gown as unique as the bride herself.
The Details
The wedding planning journey took a year, with every decision made together by Ali and Alissa. The meticulous planning reflected in every detail, from personalized ribbons on bonbonniere to flavored San Pellegrino at the cocktail hour.
The ceremony unfolded at the heritage-listed Tresco House in Elizabeth Bay. Home to sweeping views of the water, stone busts, a long gravel driveway and a three hundred year old tree with a swing. The location oozes old-world Italian flair in the heart of Sydney.
The reception took place at The Grounds of Alexandria—an oasis of glowing lights, flowers, and trickling fountains that held sentimental value for the couple. It was not just a venue; it was a place where their love story had unfolded on one of their first dates. The two had enjoyed a beautiful dinner at ‘The Potting Shed’ in the precinct. So engrossed in conversation, they didn’t notice the shop closing up around them and the waiter asking them to leave as the restaurant was closed.
The Couple’s Favorite Moment
Amidst all the glitz and glamor, Ali and Alissa’s favorite moment was the first dance. Dancing to “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” by Frankie Valli and Vivaldi’s “Four Seasons”, the couple’s semi-choreographed routine turned into an impromptu, euphoric celebration of their love. As Alissa fondly recalls, “All the people and the world faded away and it was just the two of us again, in the car singing away, in the garage dancing alone, without a care in the world. It was euphoric. I’ll never forget it.”
The Wedding Vendors
Photography @saltatelier_wedding
Wedding Gown @lizmartinezbridal @theivoryroombridal
Reception @thegrounds @thegroundsevents
Hair Stylist @dompellihair
Makeup Artist @mariaefthymakeup
Florist @mnfloral_
Groom Suits @thebespokecorner
Wedding Cake @thegrounds
Wedding Car @hfweddingcars
READ MORE: THIS AUSTRALIAN COUPLE HAD A MAGICAL DESTINATION WEDDING IN LAKE COMO
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