Two weeks ago today we received the tragic news from Greece that one of our dear friends and highly regarded industry colleagues Anthony Del Col had suddenly passed away on vacation. Like so many friends of Anthony's the news came with such disbelief and shock that it still feels completely unreal. I remember the day Anthony & I met over 6 years ago when we were both assigned onto a clients wedding day and from that very first moment I knew it would be a wonderful journey both at work and play.
All of our SugarLove team and clients who have had the sheer joy of working with Anthony have been truly blessed by his spirit and commitment to their once in a lifetime events. His farewell this week was evident of just how many lives he touched and we will always be reminded of how he "shined bright like a diamond" to everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. These are just some of our memories of Anthony to celebrate the extraordinary life we were so blessed to have been a part of.....we will forever be reminded of you Anthony & your guiding light.. thank you for being a part of our lives xxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Anthony & I at the preparations for Terry & Anthony's wedding in January 2012.Anthony celebrating with Terry & Anthony prior to their reception in Darling Point.
Anthony & I with good friend Kim Veverka @ the Aria Catering launch at Opera Point Marquee.
Always loved by our brides & family - Anthony with Emma Scott & Mum on the South Coast.
Anthony's beautiful Moroccan themed tables for Emma Scott's wedding day.
Our gorgeous clients Deb & Rob celebrate with Anthony at Doltone House for their wedding.
The party & dancing at Deb & Rob's event was amazing and he stayed right until the very end.
More of Anthony's stunning work at Michelle & Martin's wedding at Opera Point Marquee.
Together celebrating with Michelle & Martin pre their reception in October 2010.
One of my favourite SugarLove weddings styled by Anthony at Sylvan Glen in the Southern Highlands. Seems like yesterday when I recall him telling me about the thousands of rose petals he was going to throw over the path on the way to the ceremony...it looked unbelievable.
The reception was super sweet and the roses, cake, lighting and candles a dream to photograph.
Anthony was super excited about our Woollahra showroom opening in 2009. Here we are together on the left & on the right with some other wonderful friends. I remember how much he loved that we had created our dream "Hamptons inspired" shop front in Woollahra and was always asking if we needed him to do anything leading up to the big night, a true friend.
The same could be said for hubby's Masterclass launch event last year. Anthony was front and centre celebrating with Bradley on the night & with Fiona (Deans-Dundas) and Joe Nader as well. Always one to support taking risks & chasing the dreams he was a pillar of strength to both of us.
The last night my husband spent with Anthony was in May at an industry event. This image was kindly shared with me today. Bradley and Anthony are pictured here with a very old friend (Barb Gouskos) along Anthony's close friend Wendy Elkhoury.
The last time I spoke with Anthony was before his trip overseas. He was so excited about the break away before returning to officially launch his new business and we shared a toast on all the new paths we had decided to make this year. The Australian Bridal Industry was so lucky to have you paving the way for a generation of kind spirited and passionate creatives to come in the future Anthony.
Our wish is that we all take a second to reflect on your sentiments below and celebrate each and every moment with our family and friends. Life is so short and your spirit will be with us always xxxxxxxxxxxx