A frosty mountain surprise
Con and Tim’s journey to “I do” began on a foggy and frosty hike up Diamond Hill in Ireland. “On [a] frosty and foggy hike up Diamond Hill (pun intended), Tim got down [on] one knee and proposed.” They had travelled to Ireland for Christmas 2023 to visit Tim’s family and Con’s sister, who lives in London. After the proposal, a small red backpack full of “hike snacks” revealed bubble-wrapped champagne glasses and heart-shaped chocolates. As they overlooked the landscape, they popped a bottle of champagne to celebrate “the view and [their] new relationship status.”
A grand setting in the heart of Melbourne
Tim had previously attended a corporate event at the State Library Victoria, where someone mentioned they also hosted weddings. “Once Tim and Con were engaged the State Library Victoria was the first and only venue inspection that they did.” Elizabeth, their Showtime Wedding Executive, “was professional from start to finish and made booking our special day effortless.”
They were after “a historic Melbourne city backdrop for both events.” When they saw the Portico Balcony in person with the stunning pillars, they knew it would be the perfect backdrop for their ceremony. “The Reading Room in the State Library Victoria and the Ian Potter Queen’s Hall were the perfect ways to complement this traditional setting.”
A look inspired by Vintage Hollywood
The couple’s vision drew on the elegance of classic cinema. “Vintage Hollywood was the inspiration so mainly black and white colours. This was [to] complement the settings and type of photos that we wanted.” They kept styling to a minimum, “we felt that the venues had enough style for what we wanted.” Their suits were by Couture Mens, with the wedding party dressed by Black Tie in Carlton and Rebecca Vallance.
Local favourites and big band vibes
Their cake was made by Brunetti’s, “Con used to work as a [barista] there so felt like an apt supplier to help us with our special day.” They created their invitations and signage themselves using Canva, adding a personal DIY touch. For music, “we wanted a big band so wanted to have brass which Craig Francis Music were great for.”
Ceremony on the balcony
Looking back, the ceremony was the most special part of the day. “Probably the ceremony – the setting of the Portico Balcony, our amazing celebrant Jorgia, our string quartet (via Craig Francis Music) – it was incredible.” With its iconic columns and sweeping views over the city, the balcony offered a dramatic yet elegant stage for their vows. Music floated through the air as guests looked on, and everything, from the weather to the warmth in the crowd, came together in perfect harmony. It was a moment suspended in time, where Melbourne’s rich heritage met the intimacy of their love story.
Love in reflection: Advice from the happy couple
“Be very [deliberate] about the photographs that you want for the day with family and wedding party as the day just flies.” For Con and Tim, the day went by in a joyful blur, and having a clear plan for photography helped them capture all the right moments. Their second piece of advice is a beautiful reminder of what makes weddings so meaningful. “Get as many people to speak as possible. People love the challenge of writing stories and saying nice things about those that they love.” Involving loved ones added a deeply personal layer to their celebration — one filled with laughter, nostalgia, and heartfelt memories they’ll treasure for years to come.
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