A recent chat with Aussie photographer Lara Hotz has us brimming with excitement over the gorgeous artsy space that is Studio Neon. Located in Sydney, this eclectic warehouse is equal parts artsy and modern. Lara photographed a wedding at Studio Neon recently and we couldn’t help but wonder if everything in Australia is as inherently cool as this spot.
From the old school speaker wall installation to the spattered paint floors, there’s a visual surprise everywhere you look at this studio. Exposed brick and neon art round out the combo of new and old that is so popular in Sydney design. Brilliant florist Merci Bouquet rocked the “any bright color goes” theme with neon hues throughout the studio. We couldn’t think of a more cheerful way to celebrate than with festive and colorful décor in a setting that’s so full of character.
The bold couple set the tone for the playfully posh day with their effortlessly chic fashion choices. The bride Lex accessorized with purple pink hues and the sparkliest stiletto shoes that gave off super cool Jem and the Hologram vibes. Don’t you just love when a couple’s style perfectly reflects the day to come? The glitter on her shoes, the monogram on his tux and lavender in her necklace were just the tiniest teaser of the wildly colorful, cultural and charming reception that was going to happen later that night.
These two are certainly a bride and groom we can all take a crash course in cool from.
The Ceremony Spot
After Lex and her maids got ready, they headed outdoors for a grassy and sunshine filled ceremony at Centennial Parklands. Guests were greeted at the ceremony with goody bags. “In our spare time we made confetti bags, table decor, a “guest book”polaroid washing line, chair tags, winners ribbons…” said the bubbling, blushing bride.
Vintage white chairs and picnic blankets were set upon the grassy knolls for guests to lounge on. They were treated to fun family traditions including a Greek crowning ceremony, Lex’s Yia Yia’s (name for Greek Grandma's) spinach pies and Dave’s brother’s delish home brewed beers.
After the confetti-filled ceremony everyone hopped onto a big red bus and headed to a Foot-stompin’, soul-healin’time at Studio Neon. How did the bride find this hidden gem of a venue that soooo perfectly fit her personality? “A quick Google search title “alternative wedding locations” led us to this gem, one visit and we signed on.”
Words and Photography by Lara Hotz
What made the venue, Studio Neon a great backdrop and setting for photos?
The styling and industrial eclectic nature of the venue is a lot of fun to work with. From the outside it appears like nothing special but then inside surprises you. The venue is set in the middle of a suburb that you would never expect a wedding to be held.
What were your favorite design elements of the venue?
The old sound speakers stacked up against the wall make a great backdrop.
What makes this venue special?
It's very unique and individual and a great blank canvas.
In summary, we WISH we were guests at this wedding and if Studio Neon was a person, we would want to be besties. Studio Neon's collection of furniture is something straight out of an event designer’s dream rental booklet. There are tons of props that can be used for events here and the colorful sofas, mismatched chairs, chandeliers, and bubble swing – yes, bubble swing! – make the space feel welcoming and friendly.
The studio can of course be used for photo shoots and workshops, while weddings and parties can host around a hundred partygoers. We’re adding this place to our Australia bucket list immediately, and also might be currently googling “neon art”.
Credits
Venue: Studio Neon | Photos: Lara Hotz | Flowers: Merci Bouquet | Stationery and signage: Your One And Only | Ceremony: Centennial Parklands | Reception: Studio Neon | Catering: Ruby and Rach | Cake: Cook and Baker | Decorations: Colour and Twine & Three Girls and a Goat both via Etsy | Favours: La Pomme Et La Pipevia Etsy | Prop hire: Vintage Patina | Lighting and sound: Event Equipment | Music: Brassholes | Celebrant: Nathan Dennett | Rings: Martin & Stein | Transport: Red London Bus | Bridal gown and bridesmaids dresses: Jean Nash Designs | Lingerie: Agent Provocateur | Shoes: Tabitha Simmons via Farfetch | Accessories: Ek Thongprasert | Hair: Norman and Brown | Hair and makeup: Anya Spicer | Groom and groomsmen suits and ties: P. Johnson Tailors | Grooms Shoes: Jeffrey Campbell via Apex Shoes | Watch: Timex via Incu | Barber: Esstudio Galleria | Groomsmen Gifts: Hook & Albert and Sharp & Dapper.
