Welcome to the enchanting fairy tale wedding of Designer Effie Kats and James Cerolini. Inspired by the eternal romance of Paris, the event exuded glamour and elegance, unfolding like a love letter to the City of Light. Join us as we reminisce on this sumptuous, star-studded affair.
The planning began in August 2021 after James proposed during lockdown. They shared a strong vision for the day from the start, backed by the bride’s background in luxury fashion design. “I’ve attended so many events,” Effie told Confidential, “and we wanted to create something truly spectacular for our guests.”
They opted for a spring ceremony at the inimitable St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Melbourne’s CBD, inspired by the venue’s soaring Gothic Revival interior. The pews were filled with 260 elated guests, many designers and celebrities in their own right.
Effie donned a jaw-dropping lace Zuhair Murad gown, complete with a dramatic train and sweeping embroidered veil. She traveled to Paris to find her dream dress, and after visiting several couture houses, stopped at Murad’s 1st arrondissement store last. The sales assistants gasped in unison as she emerged from the changing room, and she knew in that magical moment she had found ‘the one.’ Between wedding planning and several more trips to Paris for fittings, the bride even found time to design the bridesmaid dresses – intricate black silk corsets with matching skirts that could be worn together or separately.
After exchanging vows at the altar, attendees were welcomed into the iconic State Library of Victoria’s Ian Potter Queen’s Hall for a traditional sit-down reception. The venue matched the romantic Parisian theme perfectly, with soaring Corinthian pillars, marble stairs, vaulted ceilings and timber parquet floors.
Previously closed to the public but now fully restored to its original heritage grandeur, the hall transformed into a mirage of delicate crystalware, white roses and ambient pillar candles – the perfect canvas for a party.
Inspired by French bistro cuisine, SEG curated and catered the meal, offering delicacies like kingfish ceviche, steak au poivre and 18-hour braised lamb ribs. A slice of the dreamy three-tiered buttercream cake completed the indulgent meal, leaving guests refreshed and ready to dance.
After the bride changed into a custom Alin Lekal dress, DJ Perri Lee kicked off the party with a musical journey through the decades. With great food, plenty of drinks, and the best of company, the night unfolded into a whirlwind of dancing and delight.
We’re so honoured to have been a part of this incredible journey and wish the newlyweds a lifetime of joy. Congratulations to Effie and James!
For couples seeking a wedding venue that exudes elegance and sophistication, State Library Victoria stands as an unrivalled choice. With Showtime Event Group at the helm, every aspect of the wedding journey is fabulously planned, and remembered always.
03 9682 1777
events@seg.melbourne
