Annabel & Anthony

As seen in Geelong Wedding Guide Magazine

Love Story

Annabel and Anthony met over 10 years ago while studying at Melbourne University. Their mutual love for sport took them both to the University Games on the Gold Coast in 2011, but for very different reasons. Annabel was a defending champion for her university’s netball team, there to bring another gold home, and Anthony as an injured swimmer was there to party! But it was on the dance floor of a seedy nightclub that they first met. Annabel saw Anthony from across the dance floor and made the first move. Bonding over Annabel’s attempts at pronouncing Anthony’s surname, the universe kept pulling them back to each other over the course of the week and they decided to meet up once back in Melbourne.

Their first date was off to a rocky start with Anthony spilling a large jug of water all over the table, but with the ice broken (see what we did there…) hours passed by and the couple were still talking. Separated by Annabel’s three-month long Europe holiday, distance made their connection stronger and, on her return, they’ve been inseparable ever since.

The Day

For Annabel and Anthony, Point Lonsdale holds a lot of significance to their love story. It’s where they became engaged and the town holds a lot of significance for their families. Lon Retreat provided the perfect canvas for the couple to create their own unique day and the ability to engage suppliers from all over the local region. Partnering perfectly with the couple’s style, the venue has a relaxed yet polished beach feel that brought Annabel and Anthony’s vision to life.

With a lot of uncertainty in the lead up to the day due to the pandemic, they were able to have their wedding day with the inclusion of loved ones who travelled from all over the world. Anthony’s extended family in Tasmania were unable to attend due to border restrictions but held their own little party and watched via video link.

The ceremony was the perfect reflection of the bride and groom, with lots of laughs and tears thanks to their own vows and a close friend providing their own reflection of the couple.

The first dance kicked off the night in a vibrant way with the couple dancing to INXS – ‘Never tear us apart’ and Anthony performing a surprise sax solo mid song!

Having the ceremony, cocktail hour and reception all at the one venue allowed the guests to really relax and ease into the night. What an amazing way to forget about the world for a moment and celebrate love with a good boogie! We’ll cheers to that!

Venue: Lon Retreat & Spa

Celebrant/Officiant: Zena Lythgo

Photography: Ed Sloane

Videography: John Kurt

Styling: The Bride

Florist: Florette

Hair: Alana Holmes

Make Up: Karen Burton

The Dress(es): Newhite & Alex Perry from Bluebell Bridal

Veil / headwear – if applicable: Bluebell Bridal

Shoes: Amina Muaddi

Rings: Saphira Diamonds (Adriana Traviati)