The love story
It was four years ago that our lives intersected in a most unexpected way – through a game of basketball, courtesy of a mutual friend. We were both going through tough times, but as we laced up our sneakers and hit the court together, something special was born. We found comfort in each other’s company, and our shared struggles brought us closer together. Over time, our friendship blossomed into something more, and before we knew it, we were head over heels in love. Two years after our initial spark, Pat took me to the breathtaking Lakes Entrance Beach, where he proposed to me beneath the sun-kissed sky. And one year later, we exchanged vows and sealed our love forever in a beautiful ceremony. It’s been an incredible journey so far, and I’m grateful for that fateful game of basketball that brought us together.
The engagement
It was a sun-kissed day in 2022 when Pat surprised me with a romantic date to the stunning Lakes Entrance Beach. As we strolled along the shoreline, I couldn’t resist capturing the breathtaking views and turned back around to take a few photos. Little did I know, Pat had other plans! As I gazed back at him, I was met with the most unexpected sight: he was down on one knee, holding a beautiful ring. Overcome with emotion, I burst into tears, and Pat’s eyes welled up with joy as he asked me to be his forever. It was an instantaneous yes, and as we shared that magical moment, our love shone brighter than the sunshine on that perfect day.
One piece of advice
As you embark on this new chapter in your life, remember that your wedding day will fly by in the blink of an eye. Take a moment to slow down, look around, and absorb every precious moment with the people you love. Cherish the laughter, tears, and memories being made with your partner, and bask in the joy of starting your forever journey together. It’s a day to treasure, and one that you’ll always look back on with fondness. Soak it all in and let the magic of this special day stay with you forever.
The wedding outfits
I must admit, I was feeling a sense of defeat as I finished trying on dresses that day. I had almost given up hope of finding the one, but then I slipped into the last dress of the session. And just like that, my doubts vanished! The moment I looked in the mirror, I was swept away by its beauty. The dress hugged my curves in all the right places, and the delicate leaf lace details added a touch of whimsy and romance. My mom and sister both gasped in unison, and I knew we were all thinking the same thing: this is it. This is my dress. The way it made me feel was indescribable – confident, elegant, and like the best version of myself. I knew right then and there that I had found my perfect match.
The venue
We fell in love with the vineyard because of its unique charm and versatility. Not only did it offer the perfect setting for both our ceremony and reception, but it also boasted a breathtaking view that would serve as a stunning backdrop for our special day. The newly renovated chapel, with its elegant architecture and tranquil ambiance, was the icing on the cake. We couldn’t imagine exchanging our vows anywhere else. The idea of being surrounded by rolling hills, lush vines, and lush greenery as we began our new life together was truly irresistible.
The ceremony
One of the most poignant moments for me was when Pat’s voice cracked with emotion as he spoke his vows. It was a beautiful reminder of the depth of his love for me, and I felt my own heart swell with gratitude. Being surrounded by our loved ones, with my sister by my side as my maid of honour and Pat’s younger brother standing as his best man, added an extra layer of warmth and intimacy to the ceremony. It was a truly special feeling to stand together as a family, surrounded by those who matter most to us, and to know that we were making this commitment in front of the people we cherish the most.
Favourite memories
One of my most treasured moments from our wedding day was during the golden hour, when Pat and I snuck away for our sunset photos. It was a wonderful opportunity for us to step away from the reception and savour the moment, just the two of us. We took a few minutes to soak in the beauty of the surroundings and reflect on everything that had brought us to this point. It was a truly special time for us to reconnect and cherish this moment together. Another highlight was our bridal party photoshoot, which was an absolute blast! We all had so much fun laughing and joking around, creating some truly unforgettable memories. And of course, dancing with our loved ones on the dance floor was an added bonus – it’s a memory I’ll always treasure.
Favourite vendors
One of the things that truly made our wedding day unforgettable was the exceptional talent and professionalism of our vendors. Rebecca Farley, our photographer, and Whitney Morley, our Videographer, were absolutely fantastic! They put us at ease and made us feel so comfortable during the photo and video sessions. We were initially nervous about being in front of the camera, but they worked their magic to capture our special moments in a relaxed and natural way. We’re incredibly grateful for their expertise and skill.
Vendors
Bridal Gown & Veil Designer Pure Elegance Bridesmaid Dresses Billy J Boutique Cake / Sweets Ash’s Edible Artworks Catering De Grandi’s Winery Celebrant Pr Luis Bermudez Ceremony Venue De Grandi’s Winery Entertainment / Music Matt-Peter Fry Favours / Gifts Etsy Florist Desflora Grooms Attire Connors Hair Stylist The Head Boutique Honeymoon Meriton Suites Surfers Paradise Invitations / Stationery Vistaprint Jeweller Lovisa Makeup Artist Makeup by Brittany Nails / Tan Daisy Nails and Spa Photographer Rebecca Farley Photography Reception Venue De Grandi’s Winery Robes, Sleepwear & Lingerie Cotton On Videographer Petals of Pierre
Rebecca Farley Photography
Congratulations on your engagement !!!Every wedding is so different and beautiful. I love, love, love everything about them. As your photographer I make sure you have fun, enjoy yourself and have meaningful wedding photos that feel like you in every way for this new chapter of your life. My style is a mixture of candid moments, capturing the real connection you have with each other, also including with a few gently guided posed photographs as well. Definitely no awkward posing here I love to get creative by using different light to create interesting and stunning works of art. During the reception I like to be a fly on the wall and take more documentary style photographs of you celebrating with being family and friends. I would love to be part of your wedding.