![real bride chantal and darian header image - D3487 by Essense of Australia](https://cdn.essensedesigns.com/blog/uploads/2024/08/JULY_PHL-RBR-Chantal-Darian.jpg)
Love stories that start with a spark and blossom into a beautiful partnership are always inspiring and Chantal and Darian’s journey is no exception. From the moment they met back in 2017, Chantal knew Darian was the one.
Speaking of the one: Chantal’s bridal style was equally enchanting. With her mother by her side, she walked down the aisle in Essense of Australia Style D3487, a whimsical, romantic gown with cap sleeves and an open back.
Follow along on this heartfelt celebration full of personal touches, from military-themed details honoring Darian’s service to DIY decor and a cute, furry ring bearer.
CHANTAL, TELL US ABOUT YOUR PARTNER. HOW DID YOU MEET?
My husband Darian is such a kind and gentle soul. From the first time I met him, I could envision my future. From February 5th, 2017, he never left my side. He’s been there for me at my worst and best like a man should. He taught me how to trust and love. I can’t see myself with anyone other than him.
He proposed in the backyard of our home with the first campfire of the year. He had the ring hidden in his truck for two weeks and was waiting for the perfect moment. It was typical of him to do something like this. He knew my style and what I hoped for in a ring, a solitaire with a gold band.
![real bride standing with husband darian by the lake - D3487 by Essense of Australia](https://cdn.essensedesigns.com/blog/uploads/2024/08/f800267efbb16a34c93938e479dc667821c7d02a9764bf2263fd8f4ab4e0cec8-instasize-scaled.jpg)
![real bride Chantal kissing husband Darian under umbrella - D3487 by Essense of Australia](https://cdn.essensedesigns.com/blog/uploads/2024/08/033cd9137557201f9611c1499024a2be3fec85566cbece4492597db5dccb6055-instasize-scaled.jpg)
DESCRIBE YOUR BRIDAL STYLE. TELL US ABOUT YOUR DRESS SHOPPING EXPERIENCE.
I wanted a beautiful wedding dress with cap sleeves, I always envisioned a whimsical and romantic dress. The open back and the train was such a perfect combination!
Essense of Australia Style D3487 was the first gown I tried on and I couldn’t stop thinking about it — I knew as soon as I saw it this was the dress for our wedding day!
I felt so beautiful in this dress on my wedding day — it fit me perfectly and made me feel so beautiful. When Darian saw me in my wedding dress all he could say was “wow” — I saw tears in his eyes, but he swore he wasn’t crying.
![real bride Chantal putting earrings on before ceremony - D3487 by Essense of Australia](https://cdn.essensedesigns.com/blog/uploads/2024/08/6416bef0b4da723524999070892bd0fed3eb9291896c3eb3a3d092dc1f52377c-instasize-scaled.jpg)
![real bride Chantal standing outside church facing away from camera - D3487 by Essense of Australia](https://cdn.essensedesigns.com/blog/uploads/2024/08/05acc2b210955d70d4050d00046534232760927c7ab67561e08b14231fa6fa81-instasize-scaled.jpg)
IN YOUR OWN WORDS, TELL US MORE ABOUT YOUR WEDDING.
Our wedding could not have gone more perfectly and been more personal to us. With Darian’s military background, we added little military details to our wedding by having an “Army wife” hanger, pictures of Darian in his uniform and little Army men as our favours. My “something blue” was a pen from a small woman-owned business who is also a close friend of mine.
The most special memory was walking down the aisle with my mom in the church and seeing my future husband standing in front of me at the church in my hometown, which was also something to cherish.
Our first puppy was in the wedding as the ring bearer which was so special to us. He was brought down the aisle in a blue wagon with a matching bowtie/leash/harness set.
We had a very DIY wedding. It was great to make our day as customized to us as a couple, as we possibly could. From the flowers to the centrepieces, to the table decorations and the cake, everything was DIY. We also did things a little differently by having a potluck dinner and being able to try our friends and families’ favourite dishes.
I did a mother daughter dance and a grand-daughter and grandfather dance which was also very special since I grew up with a single mom and both my grandparents helped raise me. I also had my mom walk me down the aisle.
![real bride Chantal and Darian - D3487 by Essense of Australia](https://cdn.essensedesigns.com/blog/uploads/2024/08/55ff7332c99ff18307c7478cdfc13e7330ac13128818163d9e32bab9894cfe55-instasize-scaled.jpg)
Cheers to Chantal and Darian!
Photography: Tabitha Beaulieu
Florist: Bluebells and Daisies
Venue: Perth Elks Club, Perth-Andover, New Brunswick
Bridal Shop: Lena & Mae Bridal
Hair and Makeup: Pamela McLaughlin
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