Rita Arsenian hired personal trainer, David Zullo, to achieve extra motivation at the gym, and the results were even better than she expected.  “I know it sounds corny, but I felt love at first sight,” she said. “I even pushed myself so much in the session to impress him that I was sore for days, but looking back, it was worth it.”

The pair began dating and when David surprised Rita with a romantic dinner proposal, the couple agreed that Curzon Hall would be the perfect venue for their wedding reception. 

The magnificent sandstone manor set upon two acres of manicured gardens is located just 20 minutes from the centre of Sydney, and its gorgeous grounds and sweeping staircases became the perfect backdrops for the couple’s wedding photographs. 

After a traditional church ceremony, the newlyweds and their guests enjoyed pre dinner drinks and gourmet canapes on Curzon Hall’s private rooftop garden. “I really wanted that soiree feeling and the weather was just perfect for it,” Rita said.

The dessert buffet with its amazing selection of cakes, macarons and Italian canoli was one of the highlights, but nothing eclipsed the couple’s first dance as husband and wife. “We chose ‘At Last’ by Etta James, because finally, our special day was here and it was just about us,” Rita said.

For more inspirational wedding stories. Visit Real Weddings to find your perfect wedding venues in Sydney!

Gown: Steven Khalil | Photographer: Phao Photography | Ceremony Location: Holy Name of Mary | Reception Venue: Curzon Hall | Reception Decorations, Flowers and Floral Decorations: Luxurious Events | Shoes: Oscar de la Renta | Engagement and Wedding Rings: Midas Jewellers | Bridesmaid’s Outfits: Carla Zampatti | Bridesmaid’s Shoes: Peep Toe | Bridesmaid’s Accessories: Oroton | Stationery: Delightfully Invited | Hair: Fabulous Hair Up | Make-Up: Napoleon | Cake: Faye Cahill Cake Design | First Night: Shangri La Hotel, Sydney | Honeymoon: Greek Islands | Cookies: Cookie Couture