A bite from the travel bug leads to Elise and Mat’s modern wedding

A true modern-day romance, Elise McCann and Mathew Dunn spent a good part of their relationship travelling the Northern Hemisphere together.

Despite already being an item for years, the two originally embarked on travels separately with friends. This however, didn’t last long. “We missed each other and met up in Europe to spend an amazing summer together,” says Elise, 30.

Upon returning home almost a year later, the pair bought a unit and created a life together.

Fast forward a couple more years. While holidaying in Port Stephens for their seven-year anniversary, Mat, also 30, popped the question.

“When we returned from a sunset dinner, the room was decorated with roses, chocolate, and champagne,” says Elise.

Mat was on one knee, and asked, “Will you grow old with me? Will you marry me?”

The Cronulla pair wed on March 19, 2016 at their modern wedding at Nelson Bay Lighthouse in Port Stephens, in the company of 110 family and friends.

“Our wedding was full of love and laughter,” recalls Elise. “Not only did we have the best day ever, but our family and friends also commented on how much fun they had. A day to remember – always and forever.”

Photos courtesy of Little Black Bow Photography.

Elise advises other brides against waiting for the photographer to arrive before getting ready. “After the ‘getting ready’ photos, there was a mad rush to get into our dresses!”

“Our wedding was a celebration and one big party!” says Elise.

A nod to the overall modern theme, the bridesmaids also wore white.

Elise wore a beautiful fitted gown with a low back, paired with a stunning cathedral length veil.

Dea from Little Black Bow Photography captured the atmosphere of the day. “Dea’s photos are candid and beautiful,” says Elise. “I cannot recommend her highly enough.”

The gorgeous three-tiered wedding cake was made by a friend and guest at the wedding.

The White Tree had everyone on the dance floor all night. “Signs of a great band,” adds Elise.

“We look forward to ‘growing old together’!”