In this special edition of Hogans Couples, we're throwing back to the dreamy nuptials of Amy Sheppard and Lachie Stuart, which took place in Tropical North Queensland in October of 2021. As one of the singer-songwriters of Brisbane pop band, Sheppard, Amy is known for not only her vocals but her signature blue hued hair. This led now Husband, Lachie, to engage the help of our Master Jeweller to design and handcraft a beautiful custom designed engagement ring that features a vibrant Columbian emerald centre stone - a truly complimentary accessory for one of Brisbane's style icons. We are so thrilled to be able to share our short Q&A that we had with the lovely couple.
Q: Let’s start with a little intro about yourselves, and how you met.
A - Amy: We met the old-fashioned way - in a Brisbane bar! Our friends were seeing each other and needed a wingman and wingwoman to ease their nerves so we tagged along. Their relationship never worked out but luckily for us, sparks flew!
Q: Now to the moment Lachie popped the question! Where did it take place, and how did it all unfold?
A - Lachie: Our proposal took place up on the Sunshine Coast. It was Amy’s 30th so we organised a group of our closest family and friends for a boat party. Prior to that I had planned to take Amy to the beach to propose but the weather wasn’t looking great, and Amy didn’t want to venture down to the beach. She was more interested in going back to the room to get ready for her party so it's safe to say she definitely made me work for it. Eventually, I managed to talk her into strolling down to the beach where I dropped the knee and presented her bespoke Hogans ring. The overcast day made for some great photos!
Q: Amy, what were your initial thoughts when you saw that ring?
A - Amy: I couldn’t believe my eyes! I’ve always wanted an emerald and I was in tears when I realised the most beautiful ring I’ve ever seen was mine. I still can’t stop looking at it!
Q: Your bespoke Hogans engagement ring features a stunning vibrant green Columbian Emerald centre stone. Lachy, what was it about the Emerald gemstone that you were so drawn to?
A - Lachie: To be honest, it was just so unique. Amy had shown interest in emerald gemstones over the years and having spoken with Lach we sorted through a number of stones that he had sourced until we came across the right one. The vibrant colour stands out much like Amy’s hair - it was very fitting.
Q: Now another question for Lachie. How did you find the design process from inception through to delivery of the final piece and what was your reason for having this special piece designed and handmade by Hogans?
A - Lachie: Initially, I went to Lachy because he is a close mate. I’ve seen the intricate work he has produced over the years so it was a no brainer. He made the experience so easy and enjoyable. I never thought I’d be one to get so heavily involved in the design process and finesse over minute detail. As I was living outside of Toowoomba, Lachy kept me updated with video calls and photos, and every now and then I would make some sneaky trips up to Toowoomba. Lachy is honestly the best at what he does and Amy has a ring that receives MANY compliments.
Q: Your wedding took place in the beautiful Whitsundays in Tropical North Queensland. Tell us more about your destination wedding in this beautiful location and one key highlight from the week that was.
A: We had always dreamed of a tropical wedding. Ideally, we wanted to get married in Hawaii but the pandemic made that dream all too difficult. We began to research tropical destinations and Lachie came across our venue, Paradise Cove, on Instagram. It was more than we could have imagined. We were married on a perfect October afternoon under the shade of some palm trees. The water backdrop was aqua blue and it felt like getting married in paradise. We made the most of our holiday and the bridal party flew into Airlie 5 days before the wedding. We organised two boat trips and many parties leading up to the wedding. It was the perfect week.
Q: Amy, this question is slightly off topic, but we have to address the dress! What was your design inspiration for your custom-made, sky-blue tulle gown?
A - Amy: I tried on a million dresses and none of them felt like they were “the one”. I decided I wanted something unique to me and I knew Ella Moda were one of the best for custom dresses. They were incredible in helping my vision come to life. I decided, I wanted a blue dress but I still wanted to look like a bride so I opted for a powder blue colour and accessorised with a white veil and shoes.
Q: Finally, what would your advice be to those who are either planning a proposal or wedding?
A: Everyone will have an opinion on what you should do but at the end of the day, it’s YOUR wedding. Do what feels right for you and your partner. One thing which I really loved on our wedding day was taking a few minutes away from everyone to share a glass of champagne with just the two of us. It can be an overwhelming day and it’s nice to have a dedicated moment with your new spouse!
Suppliers
Ceremony & Reception Venue: Paradise Cove Villa Whitsundays
Photographer: Florido Weddings
Wedding Dress: Ella Moda
Event Planner & Stylist Til Death Events
Florist Evoke Floral Design
Celebrant: The Surfing Celebrant
Make Up: Renée Jean Makeup Artist
Hair Stylist: Haus of Jools
Engagement Ring & Wedding Rings: Hogans Family Jewellers
