Madeline’s fairytale in Eglantine by Alena Leena

The journey begins

In the days leading up to Madeline’s first appointment with us, the nerves gently gave way to something softer, anticipation and hopefulness to find her dream dress. Her vision was already taking shape, centered around one very personal detail: a soft blue bow. Inspired by springtime, traditional English springtime weddings, Alice in wonderland and Cinderella this detail would be the cherry on top of her entire look.

At first, she wasn’t certain she would wear white. It had never been a colour she naturally gravitated towards. But the moment she slipped into the first dress, everything shifted. Madeline knew she wanted magic — not just in how she looked, but in how she felt and this was the starting point to bring this to life.

“I truly felt like a bride,” she shared.

Originally drawn to Escallonia  by Alena Leena, Madeline knew she loved a puff sleeve. Trusting her stylist’s experience and expertise, she agreed to try on Eglantine. The floating layers of crushed organza, the structured folds across the bodice and, of course, the puff sleeves made the gown an undeniable standout. It was light, romantic and effortlessly - striking the perfect balance between structure and softness.

After returning home, Madeline took some time to reflect on the decision she had in front of her. Torn between Escallonia, her first love, and Eglantine, the unexpected showstopper, the decision felt impossible.

But then the universe intervened.

After dreaming of her wedding day again and again, and wearing Eglantine in every single one, Madeline knew. Once the vision was clear, there was no turning back. She had no choice but to say YES!

A fairytale come to life

As Taylor Swift once said, “I want to be defined by the things I love”, a quote that perfectly encapsulated how Madeline and Terry curated their wedding. Every choice was intentional and personal.

Abundant, romantic florals were a non-negotiable, and there was no question who would bring that vision to fruition. Rachel from Lilac Green, a florist Terry had been buying Madeline flowers from for years, created enchantingly beautiful installations that transformed the space.

Every detail of the day reflected the couple’s love and shared history. Madeline handmade friendship bracelets for every guest. Taylor Swift lyrics adorned the seating chart. Tea and coffee were offered as favours, honoring the couple’s favourite beverages. Donuts and cake were both served, because why have just one when you can have both. Following their first dance, margaritas and espresso martinis were enjoyed by guests.

The dress

Wearing Eglantine on her wedding day, Madeline felt completely herself. “All of my close friends said the dress looked like me,” she shares. “I felt like a princess. Comfortable, confident and able to dance the night away.”

As the afternoon light shifted, the organza seemed to glow from within, moving effortlessly with her and perfectly complementing the romantic styling of the day. Looking back now, Madeline treasures every photo.

“There isn’t one I don’t love. I look at them and think I look really beautiful, exactly how you hope to feel when you look back on your wedding.”

Madeline’s words of wisdom

Madeline’s advice for brides still searching is simple: Block out the noise.

“It can be really hard to resist trends and what people think you should wear,” she says. “Trust yourself. Choose something comfortable. If you feel beautiful, it will shine through the entire day.”

After a nearly two-and-a-half-year engagement, Madeline and Terry were able to thoughtfully curate a team of vendors who aligned with their values, something she credits for how seamlessly the day came together. Madeline also emphasises how meaningful an inclusive, supportive bridal experience can be.

“As a plus-size woman, it can be really hard to navigate your bridal era when you don’t see yourself reflected in marketing and advertising. It makes it difficult to see yourself in the same way as the beautiful brides you see every day. Vendors like The Art of Bridal (formerly The Veil Collective) make such a difference by offering inclusive options and genuinely positive consultation experiences.”

Madeline’s journey is a reminder that every bride deserves to feel seen and every fairytale deserves its perfect dress.

Madeline’s Dream Team

Venue & Coordination: Bunnyconnellen Celebrant: Briony Skinner Photography: Leah Cruikshank Florals: Lilac Green, Toowoomba Flower Market

Video / Content: Content For The Bride Catering: Flaming Knights Toowoomba Makeup: Justin Turner MUA  Hair: Christina Anderson Hair

Dress & Bow:  Alena Leena, Rachel's Custom Sewing Hire: Lace and Barrel Entertainment: GM Event Group Cake: Jillicious Cakes