From Santa Monica to Sydney: Timeless Waterfront Wedding
Taylor Woodward and Remi Frazin's love story began in Los Angeles, where fate brought them together through a mutual friend. Taylor had recently moved from Sydney, and two years later, their paths crossed, marking the start of a beautiful journey. Today, the couple lives in LA with their two beloved cats, Penny and Georgie, sharing a passion for adventure, discovering new restaurants, and cooking together.
When it came time to say "I do," their wedding was a heartfelt tribute to Taylor's roots. After five years of living in Remi's hometown of Santa Monica, the couple returned to Taylor’s hometown of Sydney for their big day. It was a meaningful experience not only to exchange vows there but also to share the magic of Sydney with their closest friends.
Location: Sydney, NSW, Australia
Setting: A ferry around the picturesque Sydney Harbour
Wedding Season: Australian summer
Planning Time: 1 year
Guest Count: 50
Theme/Style/Vibe: Timeless, vintage glam
The Vision
The couple wanted their wedding to feel relaxed and personal, with plenty of opportunities for their guests to connect. After careful consideration, they chose a 2-hour cruise around Sydney Harbour, providing guests with stunning views of the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and Botanical Gardens. Following the cruise, guests enjoyed cocktails and lawn games at Chiswick, an elegant venue with lush gardens. Their wedding was designed to be a celebration full of meaningful moments, allowing everyone to relax and enjoy the day.
The Fashion
Taylor’s wedding dress was a second-hand find at Brides for a Cause, a nonprofit boutique in Portland, Oregon. The form-fitting gown with a long train and veil was a perfect fit with no alterations needed. For the reception, Taylor chose a playful dress by Sonya, featuring tulle detailing on the shoulders, adding an elegant yet fun touch. Remi wore a classic black tuxedo from The Black Tux, paired with a white shirt and bow tie. Taylor’s engagement rings were from JK & Co and Cartier, while her ceremony shoes were Gucci, changing into Malone Souliers for the reception. Nadri earrings added the finishing touch to her look, making her feel both timeless and modern.
The Ceremony
The ceremony was held on a ferry cruising through Sydney Harbour, allowing the couple’s loved ones to mingle and enjoy the iconic views before the ceremony began. Boarding near the Opera House, the guests were treated to breathtaking vistas of the Harbour Bridge and Botanical Gardens. The relaxed setting perfectly matched the couple’s laid-back vibe, offering a moment of calm and beauty before the evening festivities.
The Reception
The reception took place at Chiswick, a stunning venue known for its exceptional food and wine. With its rustic charm and lush gardens, the venue required minimal decoration, allowing the natural beauty of the space to shine. The couple prioritized creating a relaxed atmosphere where guests could unwind, savor delicious food, and enjoy the company of others. It was the perfect venue for an intimate wedding celebration.
What Made the Day Unique & Memorable Moments
The wedding was special because Taylor and Remi kept the guest list small, inviting just 50 of their closest family and friends. This made the day feel intimate, and they had the opportunity to spend quality time with each guest. The most memorable moment was their casual and personal ceremony, filled with laughter, tears, and handwritten vows. The couple loved seeing their guests before the ceremony, which helped ease any pre-wedding nerves.
Couple’s Advice
Taylor and Remi’s advice for other couples is to not stress over the small stuff. “Things might not go as planned, but that’s okay. You’ll be surrounded by loved ones and marrying your best friend, which is what truly matters. We only wish we could relive it all over again!”
A Few Words About Their Vendors
Photographer: Damien beautifully captured every moment of the day with a mix of film and digital photography. His expert guidance on timing and locations made the photos even more special.
Music: Duan and Only performed live music throughout the 2-hour cruise, setting a romantic tone with a setlist of the couple’s favorite songs.
Celebrant: Bec instantly made Taylor and Remi feel comfortable, personalizing their ceremony with humor and warmth. She stayed for the cruise, giving the couple more time to enjoy her company and the celebration.
