IN the latest issue of bridal magazine “Hitched”, editor Renee Douros uses a word rarely seen in wedding publications – the D word.

“Yes, we have articles on divorce, and we’re not afraid to mention it,” laughs Renee, 25.

“I think it’s important not to shy away from it because in the end, a high percentage of marriages end in divorce, so we’re being realistic.”

With an illustration of a tattooed bride on its cover, the second issue of the Canberra-based quarterly publication, released this month, is a far cry from conventional, cookie-cutter bridal magazines.

Inside are articles from columnists around Australia, with guest illustrators, unique photo shoots, style guides, and even a touching article on a real same-sex wedding. Columnists answer frank questions such as “I hate the groom at my friend’s wedding, what do I do?” and “There’s no open bar. Is it bad form to bring a flask?”

The planning stages of “Hitched” started from Renee’s couch and eventually grew to a team of six, now independently published by Milkshake Creative in Kingston.

The magazine’s inaugural issue, released in April to 12 countries, sold out twice in 4000 newsagencies across Australia and NZ with “overwhelming” feedback.

“So many people from all over Australia wrote in and said thank you, that it’s a breath of fresh air,” says Renee.

“We had a girl who said she got engaged and held off buying wedding magazines because they were so cheesy, but that ours was a unique keepsake for her.”

The magazine’s success has prompted Renee to launch upcoming one-day wedding workshops, featuring one-on-one chats with vendors and how-to’s on everything from creating a mood board, arranging flowers and finding your own style.

Renee, a former event manager, launched the magazine this year after she saw a gap in the market for “realistic” bridal magazines.

“At the end of the day, weddings aren’t always that glossy, perfect day and you want someone to tell it like it really is,” she says.

“If it’s you, and if it’s your personality to a tee, then it’s really the perfect wedding.”

To purchase Hitched online or for more information, visit hitchedmag.com.au/