As Leah Da Gloria, a renowned Australian bridal designer, and Ryan Johnson exchanged vows at the picturesque Anambah House, she showcased her exceptional design skills in not one, but three custom-designed wedding dresses for herself. The ceremony also featured custom gowns created by Leah for her bridesmaids, each meticulously designed to complement their individual styles while blending seamlessly with the overall aesthetic of their special day.

With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of what makes a bride feel like a princess on her big day, Leah brought her unique flair to every aspect of the wedding, from her own wedding dresses to the stunning ensembles worn by her bridesmaids.

The Love Story Begins

In the spring of 2021, Leah and Ryan’s lives intersected in an unexpected yet serendipitous way through Raya. The online connection sparked a strong interest, leading them to meet in person for their first date at a local pub and Vietnamese restaurant in Marrickville. This casual gathering marked the beginning of a romantic journey that would unfold over the next few years.

Fast forward to April 2023, when Ryan surprised Leah with a special birthday proposal, setting the stage for their dream wedding plans. After months of planning, the couple finally tied the knot in early 2024, bringing their love story full circle.

A Venue With Character

As the sun shone down on the rolling hills, Anambah House – a picturesque private residence renowned for its effortless charm and impeccable service courtesy of Doltone House – provided the idyllic backdrop for Leah’s special day. The seamless transition from the enchanting garden ceremony to the vibrant reception, all facilitated by the venue’s adaptable spaces, left an indelible mark on her memorable celebration.

The Bride’s Wedding Dresses

Leah’s wedding planning journey was marked by a unique challenge: designing her own gown amidst an ocean of possibilities. To streamline the process, she focused on other wedding details first, allowing those decisions to inform her gown’s design. For the outdoor garden ceremony, Leah opted for a ballgown that blended sculptural, timeless, and ornate elements. The foundation was a lightweight Ecru organdy, structured yet sheer, which formed the base of the gown.

Hand-crimped organza pleats added delicate shadowing, while beneath lay a layer of Solstiss lace from France, imbuing the ensemble with elegance. The skirt’s design featured matte embroidery appliqués, adorned with organza flowers and pearls that cascaded down, mirroring the veil’s matching embroidery. The result was a stunning gown crafted by Leah’s team over four months, showcasing their skill and dedication.

As the evening unfolded, Leah transitioned to a reception look that continued the pleated theme for cohesion, highlighted by a sculptural nautical knot at the waist made from heavy silk satin for comfort. For the first dance, Leah donned a sheer, strapless gown designed for movement and sparkle under the festoon lights. Adorned with silvery hand-beaded fringing, this gown added a touch of glamour to the proceedings.

Throughout these changes, Leah maintained cohesive elements across all three silhouettes, presenting a testament to her ability to balance variety with unity.

The Bridesmaids Dresses

Crafted specifically for Leah’s three bridesmaids were custom gowns that showcased a harmonious blend of duchess satin and silk organza. The bespoke designs not only took into account individual body types but also catered to varying complexions, guaranteeing each attendant felt radiant throughout the day. Despite their distinct silhouettes, the ensembles coalesced seamlessly as a unified collection.

The champagne hue palette was deliberately chosen to not only complement Leah’s ceremony gown but also to harmonize with her bridesmaids’ complexions and the wedding’s overall aesthetic, resulting in a visually stunning ensemble.

The Styling

The venue played a significant role in shaping the theme and aesthetic of Leah and Ryan’s wedding. The location itself served as the primary inspiration, offering a distinct ambiance that seamlessly transitioned guests between settings. The ceremony took place amidst the picturesque gardens of Anambah House, where a serene fountain and lush floral aisle created a romantic atmosphere, punctuated by clear ghost chairs.

The soothing color palette of whites, greens, and pale blues fostered a soft, whimsical, and dreamy ambiance. As the evening unfolded, guests were led to a stylish marquee adorned with white scalloped umbrellas, where black-and-white-clad waiters, complete with bow ties, served refreshments. The reception was held in a converted barn, where Leah’s team added depth and character by incorporating rich tones of crimson and crisp apple green.

Fresh produce and artsy florals were thoughtfully integrated into the decor, resulting in a unique blend of eclecticism, classic romance, and whimsy.

A Family Affair

When it came time to bring Leah’s vision to reality, she was fortunate to have a team of dedicated professionals by her side. The event was the result of a collaborative effort between several industry experts, including Brooke from Paloma Event Co, who brought her expertise in planning and execution. Ashleigh from The Naked Florist, with her eye for beautiful and unique floral arrangements, also played a crucial role in shaping the overall aesthetic of the event.

Additionally, Sarah, a creative director from London, lent her skills to help bring Leah’s vision to life through clever design and attention to detail.

Moments to Remember

As Leah reflects on her favorite moment from the special day, she can’t help but smile thinking about the overwhelming sense of joy that filled the room when all their loved ones were gathered together. It was as if time stood still, with every face beaming with happiness and love for the newlyweds.

For Leah, this feeling is etched in her memory forever, and it’s a sentiment she echoes, ‘It was surreal having everyone I care about most in one place, feeling the collective excitement and gratitude. It truly felt like the best day of my life.’

The Wedding Suppliers

Imagine a seamless celebration unfolding at one of Sydney’s most iconic venues, tailored to perfection with our expert guidance. With the Trippas White Group Mini Guide, you’ll uncover the unique charm of six spectacular settings, from the majestic grandeur of the Sydney Opera House to the serene allure of the Botanic House. As you delve into this exclusive guide, you’ll discover captivating real-life events that showcase how others have transformed these spaces into truly unforgettable settings.

Whether you’re planning a romantic wedding or an elegant corporate event, you’ll find inspiration and expert advice to help you bring your vision to life. Explore venue details such as guest capacities and suitable event types to ensure your celebration runs smoothly from start to finish. With the Trippas White Group Mini Guide, you’ll have everything you need to create a truly extraordinary event that will leave a lasting impression on your guests.