Ryan & Jena met while both living and working in Dubai. They both worked for the same airline, Ryan as a pilot, and Jenna as a first class flight attendant. Being that Ryan was from the US, and Jena was from Sydney, she quickly stereotyped him as a “typical American”. He came out of the cockpit to make himself a coffee and cornered her, asking her on a date. She wasn’t really interested, but thought, why not, at least she might get a free lunch! Much to her surprise, their first date blew her away! He was sweet, interesting, and very chatty. He entertained her with funny stories from his past. From then on, the rest was history, and after an 18 month courtship, Ryan asked Jena to marry him while on a romantic trip to the greek isles. I have to mention, this groom gets extra points for having the last name Champagne!
They were married in a beautiful November wedding at Gunners’ Barracks with a gorgeous view of the Sydney Harbor. Soda Films and Jonathan David Photography were there to capture all the beauty that ensued on their perfect day.
Ryan & Jena – SODA FILMS from Soda Films on Vimeo.
How Did He Propose?
After dating for 18 months, we went on a wonderful two-week vacation to the gorgeous Greek Isles and he popped the question on the romantic island of Santorini. During a morning’s scenic hike from Fira to Oia, we enjoyed spectacular views of the volcanic caldera filled with the deep blue Mediterranean. We stopped at a pretty chapel atop a hill and there, on bended knee, in the bright sunshine, he asked me to spend my life with him.
Tell Us About Your Dress?
My beautiful wedding gown was a White by (Vera) Wang design, paired with the cutest pair of black satin Alan Pinkus peep toe shoes. *Sigh* I adore Ms Wang’s aesthetic! And I knew I wanted voluminous ruffles. The moment I tried it on I just knew it was my say YES to the dress moment!
What Was Your Vision For Your Wedding Day?
I envisioned an intimate celebration for our 51 guests at the exquisite Tea Rooms Gunners’ Barracks, with glorious Sydney Harbour views, fantastic food & wine, & impeccable service by the breathtaking venue. The day was chic, timelessly romantic & just perfect!
What Was Your Favorite Moment From The Day?
Aside from hearing Ryan say his beautiful vows & give his touching groom’s speech, my favourite moment was just following the delicious dinner when we took some time to (just breathe!), connect with each other, look around the room at all our loving family & friends, & just be present as a newlywed couple in that very wonderful moment.
Ryan says his fave moment was seeing me deliver my speech (as I am quite shy & the idea of public speaking terrifies me!!) It wasn’t so bad afterall!
What Was Your Favorite Part Of The Planning Process?
This will sound silly, but the least stressful (& most enjoyable) part of planning the entire wedding was the cake tasting! Our beautiful two-tier cake with its simple, elegant appearance veiled the adventurous flavours within. It was, without question, THE most delicious wedding cake I’ve ever tasted! The bottom tier was a cinnamon-spiced banana cake layered with caramel ganache and the top tier was walnut-studded orange-and-carrot cake layered with white chocolate ganache.
Do You Have Any Advice For Other Couples Planning Their Day?
Marry your best buddy… and control your inner Bridezilla at all times!
Vendor Credits
Venue – Gunners’ Barracks // Cake – Faye Cahill Cake Design // Photographer – Jonathan David Photography // Videography – Marcus Sanders of Soda Films // Gown – White by Wang // Hair & Makeup – Makeup Mode // Shoes – Alan Pinkus // Groom’s Attire – Chorley’s Formal Hire // Florals – Maggie May Flowers // Transportation – Wedding Cars of Distinction
Thanks very much for featuring my wonderful wedding day! Perfect timing, too, as it’s our second anniversary tomorrow! 🙂