A proposal with family at heart
“Our engagement was everything I could have hoped for and more.”
Liam proposed just behind the home they were building – a place already filled with meaning. He had their siblings set the scene with thoughtful decor, and as the couple arrived, he handed Ciara a series of heartfelt notes leading to the big moment. “Just as he got down on one knee, our siblings and their partners came running down the hill to celebrate with us – it meant the world to share that moment with them.” The day continued with a surprise dinner at a winery with both families. “It was truly the most perfect day.”
Falling in love with the Hellenic Museum
While juggling wedding planning with building their first home, Ciara and Liam paused for a year before restarting the venue search. They explored options in the Yarra Valley but needed something more accessible for interstate and overseas guests. Thankfully Ciara’s sister Niamh is one of Showtime Event Group leading Client Relationship Managers and had the perfect place in mind for her sister’s big day.
“That’s when Niamh suggested a venue she thought would be perfect for us and even booked us a site visit at the Hellenic Museum. I had no idea such a unique space existed in the heart of the CBD, but the moment we saw it, we knew it was the one.”
Their outdoor courtyard reception, styled around the iconic tree, made an instant impression. “It was beautiful and the perfect size space for us.”
A garden of colour and personal touches
Inspiration came from Pinterest, past weddings at Hellenic Museum, and a single bouquet that stole Ciara’s heart. “I saw a bouquet on Botanics of Melbourne’s Instagram that I absolutely loved… I wanted to incorporate coloured flowers to offset the greenery at Hellenic.” With the bridesmaids’ dresses as a starting point, Shane from Botanics of Melbourne helped bring the vision to life.
Ciara designed her own stationery and even baked her own wedding cake. “I couldn’t pay someone else to do it” she joked. Personal style ran throughout, with dresses from Aje, suits by Peter Jackson and YSJ Tailors, and beauty by @makeupbygiuliana_ and @byteeganhair. “All of our vendors truly delivered – from the stunning setup to the energy throughout the night.”
A night to remember
“There are so many moments from our wedding day that I’ll never forget.”
From walking down the aisle to seeing Liam’s face, to their first dance under the stars, every moment felt surreal. “Our ceremony, led by our celebrant Haylie, felt completely true to us – personal, heartfelt, and full of meaning.”
Their entertainer, Harry (@deus_sax), brought the night to life. “I knew we had to have him. Everybody raved about him after our wedding… he had everyone singing along during the dinner dance.” Guests told them it was the best wedding they’d ever attended. “The entire day was so special, and we were on such a high for a good week afterwards.”
The perfect plate
Food was one of the highlights of the planning process, and Liam took the lead when it came to selecting the menu. The tasting was a memorable experience, and the decision was made quickly – and passionately. “As soon as he tried the beef at the highly anticipated Showtime Event Group Menu Tasting, he knew he had to have it,” Ciara laughed.
They found themselves impressed by the entire offering. “It was a hard choice, as they were all so good.” From canapés to mains, the couple knew their guests would be well taken care of – and they were. The menu didn’t just satisfy; it elevated the experience.
Love in reflection: Advice from the happy couple
“Take little moments throughout the day to pause and really soak it all in. It’s easy to get swept up in the schedule, but those quiet moments where you look around and take in the faces, the atmosphere, and the love – they’re the ones that really stay with you.”
Ciara also shared: “Try not to stress about the small things… trust your vendors, let go of control on the day, and just enjoy every second. Also, make time to be present with your partner. Even just five minutes alone together can be grounding.”
“And finally – surround yourself with people who keep you calm and happy. It makes all the difference.”
Other love stories
Let’s create something
extraordinary together
Contact our team today and start planning an event you’ll never forget.
