Your Team
After spending decades side by side at weddings, with over 35 years of combined experience in the wedding industry, a tight-knit group of wedding professionals (and best friends!) had a lightbulb moment. What if planning a wedding didn’t have to be stressful? What if couples could have a meaningful, relaxed, and beautifully curated elopement — and what if we got to work together every day to make that happen?
That’s how Welope came to life, born from a love of weddings, a passion for helping couples, and the not-so-secret desire to spend even more time together. We believe that elopements and small weddings should be just as special and memorable as any grand celebration — and way less complicated.
ELISA
I'm a proud mum to four gorgeous children - Christian, Daniel, Thomas, and Amelia and a friendly, fun, open-minded professional who absolutely loves a good celebration!
My journey to becoming a celebrant began with my own love story. I had the joy of marrying my husband Erik twice - once in The Netherlands and again in a beautiful renewal ceremony here in Melbourne. I truly loved every part of planning our day, but what stood out the most was writing our ceremony. Reflecting on our first kiss and the many memories we’d created together was magical. With the help of a supportive celebrant, we crafted a ceremony and vows that felt completely, authentically “us.” That experience sparked something in me and inspired me to help others do the same.
Since then, I’ve had the privilege of being part of many unforgettable moments as a celebrant, each one unique and full of heart.
It would be my honour to help you create a ceremony that is engaging, heartfelt, and truly yours. Together, we’ll bring your story to life in a way that reflects who you are and what your love means.
Director of Ceremonies
Elisa’s creative and warm personality makes her an excellent choice to help you commemorate your life milestones.
ERIK
Creative Director (Photography & Videography)
I began my journey in the wedding industry in 2012, driven by a deep belief that film has the power to capture the heart and soul of the people in front of the camera. For me, storytelling is the essence of this art form, and it's what I love most about what I do.
While photography and video production is my full-time profession, my passion for discovery runs just as deep. I hold a PhD in Biomedical Science and lead a research program at Monash University focused on preventing heart attacks and strokes.
When I’m not behind the camera or in the lab, you’ll likely find me enjoying time with my four kids, riding my motorbike, or piloting a plane over the Yarra Valley, always chasing adventure and inspiration wherever I can find it.
Erik’s passion for the job combined with his variety of backgrounds, from scientific to technical through to innovative and creative, makes him ideally suited to capture your big day.
Abbey
Senior Wedding Planner
I'm a fully qualified wedding and events planner and stylist, having completed my events degree through the Wedding Planner Institute. I also hold a Diploma in Marketing and Social Media Management, a combination that allows me to bring both creativity and strategy to every event I plan.
With 13 years of experience as an on-site wedding planner across various venues in Melbourne, I’ve seen (and planned) it all! From intimate gatherings to large-scale celebrations, I know how to bring a couple's vision to life with precision and flair.
Weddings and events are my true passion, and I could talk for hours about every detail from timelines and tablescapes to trends and traditions.
When I’m not planning beautiful celebrations, you’ll find me spending quality time with my husband Luke and our one-year-old daughter Lola. I’m also a proud Star Wars superfan - tattoos and all!
With Abbey’s extensive experience planning weddings and creating beautiful moments for her couples, you can rest assured knowing she has got you covered!