GRACE IN A CUSTOM MIKADO GOWN

From a slow-burn connection on Tinder to a euphoric aisle walk surrounded by cheering family and friends, Grace and Preston’s wedding was the perfect reflection of their life together: modern, thoughtful, and joy-filled. Hosted at Villarica Estate, their celebration was designed to feel like an intimate dinner party, complete with family-style dining, sommelier-paired wines, and cultural details like a lion dance and koi fish motif to honour Preston’s Chinese heritage.

For her gown, Grace worked with the Ella Moda team to create a custom mikado design that felt both powerful and beautiful. “Everything about my dress was personal. It was a team effort that brought my ideas to life, and even a piece of the fabric was used for Preston’s pocket square — such a special detail.”

Below, Grace shares her story in her own words.

GRACE AND PRESTON - THE LOVE STORY

HOW DID YOU AND YOUR PARTNER MEET?

We met many years ago on the apps, back when Tinder was in its prime. After meeting, we actually figured out we had a lot of mutual friends at university, and Preston’s then housemate was my spin instructor at UniGym.

Was there a moment you knew they were “the one”?

We both agreed that there was never really a moment for us, just a slow burn and shared enjoyment of each others’ company

Can you share a little about your proposal?

the proposal was pretty funny to be honest. I had gotten in my

The Wedding

How would you describe the feeling or atmosphere you wanted for your wedding day?

We wanted it to be a reflection of us in the best way. We ensured to involve our incredible family and friends – our community spans multiple states and countries, and it was so important to us for them to be involved in big or small ways. We wanted the vibe to feel as though you’re at a big dinner party at our place with family-style food and sommelier-matched wines

Did you have any particular inspiration, theme, or vision in mind?

We drew inspiration from our day-to-day life, trying to pick colours and themes that reflect our home and personal style. We also drew on elements from Chinese culture, using a koi fish motif and having a lion dance to celebrate Preston’s Heritage.

What drew you to Ella Moda?

I spent hours pouring over designs and trying on dresses at various shops. I even met with a designer interstate. Ella Moda was my choice as I felt they really understood my vision of what I wanted to look and feel like on the day. Dharma was really helpful in translating my ideas to the team.

Can you describe the moment you first tried on your gown?

We did a custom design, so there wasn’t really a moment to describe just a series of moments to seeing the dress eventually unfold to the amazing gown I wore on the day.

Were there any custom touches or special details that felt especially personal?

Everything about my dress was personal as it was a custom design. I spent time before my appointment pouring over dresses, trying on lots of gowns before coming up with my dress with the team. I also reflected on what makes me feel beautiful on a day-to-day basis and my own personal style. I did love that we saved a piece of fabric for my husband’s pocket square on the day that was super special.

What was the most emotional moment for you on the day?

Definitely the first look!

How did your partner react when they first saw you in your gown?

It was very emotional for everyone!

If you could relive one moment, what would it be?

Walking down the aisle by myself, surrounded by our incredible family and friends, with the outro to Harry Styles’ Fine Line. There was a buzz of excitement in the atmosphere, everyone cheering and wooing, and I don’t think I have ever felt happier!

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In one word, how did you feel walking down the aisle?

Euphoric

How did your gown make you feel throughout the day?

I felt beautiful and powerful.

What advice would you give brides just beginning their gown journey?

Be open to all suggestions, styles and dresses – you’ll be surprised by what you like. I’d also suggest doing a lot of research and also lean into what your home and own personal style are like as well – you can draw a lot of inspiration from your surroundings!