Meet your Celebrant

Featured Image: Courtney Laura Photography

Hi! Meet your celebrant!

It’s been a while since I’ve shared some details about myself, so thought now was as good a time as any!
Whether we have not yet had the pleasure of meeting, or our paths have crossed too briefly, this is for you!

1. I’m a very private person, and love my downtime, but also love being social.

Apparently there’s a personality type described as being an “introverted/ extrovert” – that’s me.
I love being around people, but I don’t like it to be about me. I will ALWAYS make it about YOU as much as I can.

2. I love to chat.

I love hearing stories and sharing stories. I could talk for hours.
In high school, my friends rewrote the words to 500 miles by the Proclaimers to perform a skit on school camp, where they sang “Meriki would talk 500 hours”….

3. I prefer Espresso Martinis, popcorn, chocolate and Netflix in my PJ’s over a big night out.

Though that has only changed since I had kids. I used to LOVE a party, but now I embrace the comfort of a quiet night in.

4. My biggest strengths in school were Performing Arts and Creative Writing.

Math was my absolute worst enemy. Which is hilarious, because I used to work for one of the big 5 accounting companies before I became a celebrant.

Celebrant stands to side of wedding party so that bride and groom are the centre of attention.
Photo by Anitra Wells
5. My kids will always come first. I live for Work/Life flexibility.

I have one kid in the army full time, one who’s a gamer and studying to be a carpenter, and one who wants to be the next Margot Robbie or Olivia Rodrigo. They are all verrrrry different, and while they don’t agree on a whole lot right now, I wouldn’t have it any other way, but I want to always be able to be there for them when they need me.

6. I have a love/hate relationship with social media.

I don’t enjoy spending time creating it, but waste soooo much time looking at it! Who’s with me?
I also hugely dislike the idea of trying to “sell myself”, so you’ll find most of my posts are about the couples I marry, and the gorgeous photos they have shared with me!

7. I love animals. Any animals.

I have one giant rescue fur baby at home, Violet, who is a staffy/lab/great dane blend, but I also love cats, and would definitely have one if I could guarantee that Violet wouldn’t eat it.

8. My wedding ceremonies are not “cool/sick/rad” events.

I like to think that kind of vibe should be reserved for 21st’s or bucks nights (are people even still having those?) My style is warm, fun, engaging and classy. No bad jokes. No swearing. No gimmicks. No embarrassing stories to try and make people laugh. Humour will occur organically if it’s meant to, without trying. Most wedding suppliers I work with are the same kind of people too. MOST of them 😉

9. The funeral industry has become a really rewarding pathway for me over the last couple of years.

It’s one that I never intended to get into initially, but did by chance, and find it really special to have a regular opportunity to help others say a beautiful and heartfelt goodbye to their loved one.
A big shout out to all my friends at Le Pine!

Celebrant stabds with bridesmaids outside wedding chapel
Photo by Theodore + Co
10. My favourite colour is Blue, or dusty pink.

But I LOVE white and green at weddings! But also love big doses of COLOUR!

11. Did you guess that I’m a Gemini?

I really do have two very opposing sides. My work side is only half of who I am. Only people who have known me for years have seen the other.

12. I love watching police dramas.

Especially Law + Order SVU. I wanted to join the Police force when I was younger, as I have a very strong sense of justice, and my husband often jokes that if I ever wanted to kill him, I would probably know how to get away with it.

13. I can speak conversational German, with an upper Austrian dialect.

My mother is Austrian, and still has her entire family over there, so I have been over there a few times myself, where I was able to pick up the language. I may not always be grammatically correct, but I can certainly offer a few words of welcome during your wedding ceremony if you have any German speaking guests!

14. I’m a big fan of musical theatre. Or movie musicals.

I used to be a dancer, having completed a full time performing arts course with Tony Bartuccio “back in the day”, and have performed with, and worked as choreographer, with many community theatre groups around Melbourne. I still dip my toes in the industry every now and then, but I’ve pretty much handed the sequins over to my daughter who has discovered a passion for the same industry.

 

Celebrant witnesses the bride and groom signing the register during wedding ceremony
Photo by Studio Something Photography

15. And finally, my name is aboriginal.
It means Night Bird, which is pretty apt, as I LOVE staying up late. My surname is Italian though, as is my husbands family, although when I was working in the corporate industry, I had a colleague in Sydney who thought I was Japanese based on my combined name! Does Meriki Comito sound Japanese to you?

So there you have it. Just a few details about me. Do we share any similarities, or am I the “unique” person my mum always said I was 😉

 

While you’re here, you may wish to read about HOW I BECAME A CELEBRANT or WHAT I OFFER AS YOUR CELEBRANT

 

Back to home →

Kids + Pets at Weddings

Kids + Pets at Weddings: Adding a Touch of Playfulness and Love

“Never work with kids or animals” they say. Why not? I love kids and animals!

Weddings are joyous occasions, filled with love and laughter,  and couples are increasingly choosing to include children and pets (most commonly dogs) in their special day, to ensure ALL their loved ones are celebrating with them. Especially if they are yours!

When it comes to adorable wedding participants, kids and pets often take the spotlight as Best Man (or Best Boy, or Best Girl!), Flower Girls, Page Boys, or Ring Bearers, bringing an element of innocence, playfulness, and magic to the ceremony.

2 flowergirls in white talking together on a cream couch at wedding venue
Photo: Anitra Wells Weddings
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Flower Girls/Persons

Flower girls, often leading the way down the aisle, instantly steal hearts and win smiles. Traditionally, young girls scatter flower petals along the aisle, symbolising the pathway to new beginnings, their innocence and youthful charm creating an unforgettable moment at the start of the ceremony.
Of course, this role can also be switched up to a Flower-Boy, Flower-Man, Flower-Lady, Flower-Nanna, Flower-Dog or any other participant that suits your vibe!

4 flowergirls dressed in white walking down the aisle at wedding
Photo: Holly Osbourne Photography
Kids and pets at weddings. White fluffy dog in black suit and brown dog in white dress at wedding
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Page Boys

Page boys traditionally accompany the bride down the aisle, and often hold a long veil or train at the back so it doesn’t drag along the ground. These days though, the normally young boys, usually walk hand-in-hand with the flower girls, for that “aww” factor, otherwise they can also double up as Flower boy or ringbearer 🙂

Kids + Pets at Weddings
Image by Journey By Light Photography
Kids + Pets at weddings
Image by Soulflare weddings
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Ring Bearers

Ring bearers take on a special responsibility as they generally carry the wedding rings down the aisle. They typically dress in miniature suits or outfits that match the theme, and can often be presented as the “security” detail on the day. Of course this role can also be given to any guest present at the wedding, regardless of age or gender 🙂

Little boy in suit opening ring box as ring bearer at wedding
Image by Motta Weddings
3 young boys dressed in suits and walking down the aisle as ring security at wedding
Image via Etsy
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Older Children

In addition to traditional roles for kids at weddings, older children can also make meaningful contributions by reciting a poem or reading, holding the bride’s bouquet, or distributing flower petals for guests to toss during the conclusion of the ceremony. Just let me know during our planning meeting if you’re interested, and we’ll collaborate to find the ideal role for them!

Kids and pets at weddings. Three white fluffy dogs and flowergirl in pink standing with bride and groom
Image by Genelle Immerse Photography
Dogs (or any other pet)

For couples who adore their fur babies, having a dog in the wedding can be an beautiful inclusion. Dogs as ring bearers, flower girls, best boys, or honorary guests, create heart-melting moments and complete any family photos!
While they may not understand the formalities of the event, they understand they are being included, and their presence provides comfort and joy to their owners.
It is important, however, to prepare pets well in advance, to ensure a stress-free experience for everyone involved.

Groom pats his cream coloured dog during the wedding ceremony
Image: Motta Weddings
Pet dog offering her paw to bride during marriage ceremony
Image: Ali Bailey
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Tips for Including Kids and Pets in Wedding Ceremonies:
  • Communication and clarity with parents and pet owners: Make sure everyone understands their roles and responsibilities, ensuring a smooth and stress-free process.
  • Include the kids in the planning process. Let them wear their outfit in the lead up to the day, or hold the rings etc.
  • Rehearse: Practice with the children and pets leading up to the big day to familiarise them with their roles and the venue. This helps minimize unexpected surprises. Though I recommend that you should always expect the unexpected wherever kids or pets are involved – especially if under five!
  • Choose age-appropriate tasks: Consider the abilities and temperament of the children and dogs involved and assign tasks accordingly.
  • Take precautions: Ensure the safety and comfort of the children and pets by providing suitable clothing, toys, and treats.
  • Consider hiring and event nanny, or pet sitter and can highly recommend the following businesses!

For human children
Event Nannies

For Fur children
The Wedding Sitter
Formal Dogs
I Do Paws

kids and pets at weddings. Bride and groom kiss while holding their little white dog in a back doggy suit at wedding
Image: Duuet Wedding Photography
kids and pets at weddings. Bride +Groom holding baby girl during wedding ceremony
Image: Ali Bailey
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A Magical Inclusion

The inclusion of kids and Pets in weddings brings an element of purity, joy, and unconditional love to the ceremony. Their presence not only warms the hearts of the couple but also the guests, leaving behind cherished memories.

With proper preparation and guidance, kids and dogs can contribute to a fun and unforgettable wedding experience. So celebrate your love by making your special day even more magical!

HOME
BEST OUTDOOR WEDDING VENUES + LOCATIONS →

 

Wedding Vaccination Requirements

(Feature image of vaccine passport is a predicted sample only)

“Are you fully vaxxed?”

It’s not a question you want to be asking family and friends when planning a wedding, but vaccination requirements are upon us and being vaccinated against COVID-19 will be essential for attendance on your big day.

Couples planning a larger scale wedding will need to take steps to ensure their guests and vendors are double vaccinated, otherwise they will not be able to hold their wedding indoors and their number of guests will have to be reduced to a maximum of 10, (plus celebrant and one photographer).

I am a fully vaccinated authorised worker and under government directives, will be obligated to request proof of vaccination to ensure that all marrying couples, their witnesses, and any attendees whether vendors or guests, are also fully vaccinated on the wedding day, unless a medical exemption applies.
See information regarding reasons for a valid medical exemption 

Information and advice relating to compliance obligations in Victoria have not been released at this time, so, as usual, we will need to wait for, and abide by Health Department advice at the time of the event.
However, it has been suggested that once the rules do come into effect, the responsibility for policing vaccination will be placed on individuals, as well as registered businesses.

Whilst official advice relating to compliance obligations in Victoria have not been released at this time, the Victorian Government have confirmed that a valid form of evidence of vaccination, or medical exemption, in the form of digital certification will be required to permit attendance to your wedding or event.
Please click here for information on how to obtain your COVID-19 digital certificate

I would highly recommend that you advise any guests/vendors with a medical exemption to ensure they follow the correct steps to obtain a valid exemption by an authorised official.
Please click here for information on how to obtain a valid exemption

Approaching the question of wedding vaccination requirements with your loved ones can be incredibly daunting as it’s such a sensitive and politically charged topic right now, but it’s better to have the conversation before everyone turns up on the day of your event, to avoid any arguments.
Wedding etiquette experts even suggest including an extra box to tick on your RSVP cards to assist with confirming vaccination statuses along with attendances and dietary requirements!

If you’re struggling to find the right words on how to approach the topic, this article might help!
How to ask Family + Friends if they’re Vaccinated

For more information regarding mandatory vaccinations, please visit the following link.
COVID-19 Mandatory Vaccination Directions

You might also like to view my Covid Safe Weddings page for information on how I implement COVID safe wedding practices on your wedding day.

Fully Vaccinated Wedding Vendor Victoria COVID rules for gatherings sign

Signing the Register

The Signing of the Marriage Register usually takes place after a couple have exchanged their vows, have shared their first kiss as a married couple and can finally relax, take a deep breath and say “we did it!” before signing all the legal documents.

You can do this as soon as you have shared your first kiss as a married couple, or right at the very end of the ceremony before you walk out, or even in private after all of your guests have exited the ceremony space! As long as you have declared your legal declaration first, you are welcome to sign the register at any time you choose.

Sitting down to sign the register also gives the couple a moment to finally breathe normally again and get a high five from me for keeping it all together and doing a brilliant job in getting through all those nerves!

Signing the marriage register with Melbourne Celebrant Meriki Comito
Photo Credit: Proshot Photography

It’s also a great time to debrief and discuss the sometimes funny unfolding of events of the ceremony, and where 99% of couples almost always say “that went so fast!”.
Yes, after all the planning, waiting, and exciting lead up to the big day, it really does go incredibly fast, so my biggest piece of advice is to BE PRESENT.

Really take notice of every moment as it happens.
Don’t think about someone you saw in the third row, don’t think about whether the sky is changing, and don’t think about that first glass of champagne you’re really looking forward to.

Be present and ENJOY EVERY MOMENT.

Contribute spontaneously in any way that feels right, notice the tears, the emotion, the glint of mischief and love in your partner’s eyes as you exchange vows, and enjoy that blissfully joyous first kiss to claps and cheers from your family + friends.

Signing the marriage register with Melbourne Celebrant Meriki Comito
Photo Credit: Sarah Godenzi Photography

Sign the register, smile for photos and take a big breath as you step forward for the first time as a legally married couple! Then enjoy the memories you made forever. x

Oh, and to answer to the number one question I get asked by most couples “what name do I sign on the marriage certificate?” Your usual name that you have always gone by!
You have to actually sign the certificates before you can be considered legally married and eligible for a change of name!

You may wish to see some more of my Top 10 most asked questions HERE!

Happy wedding day x
Signing the marriage register with Melbourne Celebrant Meriki Comito
Photo Credit: Corey Wright Photography

Sarah + Tristan’s Stones of The Yarra Valley Wedding

The Event

Sarah and Tristan chose to celebrate their 10 year relationship by saying ‘I do’ during a beautiful Stones of the Yarra Valley Summer wedding.

It was a true celebration of young love that had developed into a deeper connection over time and led to a declaration of a lifetime of love and commitment to one another.

Sarah had her beautiful sister as maid of honour by her side, and it was heartwarmingly clear how close the two of them were as they shared such a special day together.

Sarah’s spectacular entrance to the Stones of the Yarra Valley chapel in a stunning off the shoulder, mermaid gown with cathedral length veil, was received with smiles, gasps of appreciation and tears of joy.

Their ceremony reflected on the 10 years they had already spent together, as well as their hopes and dreams for the future, before some beautiful vows and a first kiss as husband + wife gave us all the feels.

An iconic Stones of the Yarra Valley petal toss completed the celebration, before guests enjoyed drinks in the dairy whilst the newlyweds took some time to enjoy the just married vibe with a sunset portrait session.

The Meeting

First meeting just after high school at a house party, Sarah and Tristan were two of the last few people to leave and were involved in an intense game of Nintendo Wii.

Tristan thought Sarah was the most stunning woman he had ever seen, and Sarah was completely drawn towards Tristan’s kind and gentle nature.
Being around one another was effortless right from the start, as though they had already known each other for years, and they felt an instant connection.

The Proposal

Tristan loved how loyal, caring and incredibly loving Sarah was, and that every moment spent with her made his day better, so deciding to celebrate 9 wonderful years together with a holiday in Fiji, Tristan secretly packed a beautiful ring in his carry bag before they left.

Sarah loved how unbelievably selfless Tristan was, always going out of his way to help those he cares about, and always putting her first, so when he bent to one knee during a day trip to a private island and asked her to marry him, she didn’t hesitate.

The Vows

Sarah vowed to “always love and support you through whatever life may bring us…I give you my hand, my heart, and my love, from this day forward for as long as we both shall live.”

Tristan promised to “share in your dreams and support you as you strive to achieve your goals….you are my best friend, my soul mate, and I will love and respect you always.”

The Party

After some stunning sunset portraits within the grounds at Stones, Sarah and Tristan chose the celebrate their marriage in the Barn, styled to perfection by Table Art Event Hire, the team at Stones, and with the spectacular floral artistry of Sugar Bee Flowers.
Guests enjoyed music and entertainment supplied by Rutherford Entertainment and cake by Miss Ladybird Cakes, before a spectacular sparkler exit signaled the end of a perfect day.

The Photography + Videography Team

A huge thanks to the superstar team that is Theodore & Co and C2 Films for capturing every moment so beautifully and for allowing me to share their work. What an honour it is to work with these ladies + gentlemen!

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Sarah + Tristan | 18.01.2020

Venue: Stones of the Yarra Valley
Photography: Theodore & Co
Videography: C2 Films
Ceremony: Meriki Comito 
Florals: Sugar Bee Flowers
Bridal Gown: Annette of Melbourne
Brides Shoes: Jimmy Choo
Bridesmaids Dresses: Bariano Australia
Make Up: Katie Winkler Makeup
Hair: Pearly Hairstylist
Grooms Attire: Joe Black
Groomsmen Attire: Joe Black
Ceremony String Trio: Stringspace
Cars: Triple R Cars
Tableware: Table Art Event Hire
Cake: Miss Ladybird Cakes
MC: Sam Muscat
Reception Entertainment: Rutherford Entertainment

 

Ceremony Entrances – know your options →
←Wedding Vows – how to make them yours

Hamish + Sunny’s Coombe Yarra Valley Wedding

The Event

Hamish + Sunny’s beautiful Yarra Valley Wedding at Coombe Estate took place on a 44ºC Summer’s’ day, but the super chilled + considerate duo were quick to prioritise the comfort of their family + friends by making a last minute ceremony location change to ensure grateful guests were seated in the shade, before they moved inside to party with the air-con!

When I first met with Hamish + Sunny, they brought their gorgeous Maid of Honour, Jordie, along for the ride, and after a couple of wines and ton of laughter later, I knew the trio were definitely my kind of people and that this wedding would have a seriously fun + relaxed vibe.
It was all that and more. A fabulous bridal party, festive guests, romance, style + elegance galore, lots of laughs, all the feels, and an A-team list of vendors helping to make the day perfect.

Ceremony Details

Initially meeting through mutual friends at the gym, Hamish was confident that Sunny had fallen in love with him at first sight, but when Sunny saw him smashing it out on the cross-trainer in a hoodie in the middle of summer, she only thought him to be a big sweaty mess! But the brief conversation that followed ignited an undeniable spark and they soon bonded over a mutual love of food, travel and finding any opportunity to take a nap.

Popping the big question during a holiday in Bali, Hamish chose total romance by bending to one knee, as they walked along the beach at sunset.

After arriving, bathed in sunshine, on the arm of her prod father, Sunny stood before her smitten groom and promised to “always arrive at the airport 3 hours early so you can get the exit row, to nurse you back to health after your yearly ankle operations” and “to be worth it – worth the time, worth the energy, and most importantly, worthy of your love.”

Hamish declared that he felt “blessed & lucky to be marrying the most beautiful, driven & caring person I know”, before promising to “respect you and protect you with my life and to be by your side no matter what”, before they shared their first kiss as married couple and celebrated on the lawn with cold drinks and hugs all around.

The Photography Team

Many thanks to the amazing team at Lost in Love Photography for allowing me to publish their gorgeous images, as well as superstar videographers Moon & Back Co for the fab film!

 

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A Groom and his groomsmen enjoying a beer before the wedding together

A bride and her bridesmaids enjoying a glass of champagne in the dressing gowns together

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Wedding of former North Melbourne Football club player Hamish McIntosh

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Head over to Lost In Love’s Blog for more images of this gorgeous couple’s big day!

Hamish + Sunny | 20.12.2019

Photography: Lost In Love
Location: Coombe Yarra Valley
Videography: Moon & Back Co
Marriage Celebrant: Meriki Comito 
Bridal Gown: Toni Maticevski
Florals: Vagari Creative
Ceremony Music: Four Seasons String Quartet

 

Best Outdoor Wedding Venues + Locations  →

← Rain on your Wedding Day – Do you have a Plan B? 

 

Best Outdoor Wedding Venues + Locations in Melbourne

With the new Spring/Summer wedding season almost upon us, couples are once again searching for the perfect wedding venue, so I have created a list of some of the best outdoor wedding venues + locations in Melbourne, plus a few of my favourites a little further out!

There are so many stunning gardens and estates to choose from, so I have made the search a little easier by listing a HUGE selection of some of the best outside wedding locations (in alphabetical order), AS WELL AS some amazing wedding venues that have beautiful outdoor wedding spaces too!

If you are looking for a garden wedding option in one of Melbourne’s beautiful public garden spaces, please visit my Public Garden Wedding Locations page, which also features some great rotundas + undercover options for wet weather contingencies 🙂

Please remember that although many outdoor wedding venues + locations in Melbourne are public spaces, you will still need to obtain a permit from local council in order to marry there. Private venues will of course welcome all enquiries for weddings that take place on their premises independently.

And, as always with outdoor wedding venues + locations in Melbourne, be sure to consider all possible weather predictions, providing shelter for both a 40ºC day, or a surprise downpour!
Your guests (and celebrant!) will appreciate it immensely.

To view the best outdoor wedding venues + locations in Melbourne and surrounds, you can either scroll ahead and view locations in alphabetical order, or visit locations by area using the following links.

By Melbourne Celebrant Meriki Comito
Feature Image: Lost In Love Photography

Best outdoor wedding venues + locations in Melbourne;

CBD + Inner Suburbs  |  Northern Suburbs 

Southern Suburbs  |  Eastern Suburbs    

Western Suburbs  |  Bayside  |  Bellarine Peninsula 

Daylesford  |  Yarra Valley  |  Public Garden Wedding Locations

 

Abbotsford Convent, Abbotsford 

Abbotsford Convent wedding
Photo credit: Mr Theodore

Alexandra Gardens, Kew

Alexandra Gardens Weddings
Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons

Alowyn Gardens, Yarra Glen

Alowyn Gardens Weddings
Photo credit: Alowyn Gardens

Avalon Castle, Cockatoo

Avalon Castle weddings
Photo credit: Lavan Photography

Balgownie Estate, Yarra Glen

Balgownie Estate weddings
Photo credit: Balgownie Estate

Ballara Receptions, Eltham

Ballara Receptions weddings
Photo credit: Wedding Vic

Bramleigh Estate, Warrandyte

Bramleigh Estate weddings
Photo credit: Immerse Photography

Brighton Savoy, Brighton

Brighton Savoy Weddings
Photo credit: Brighton Savoy

Butler Lane, Richmond

Butler Lane Wedding
Photo credit: Polka Dot Weddings

Campbell Point House, Leopold

Campbell Point House weddings
Photo credit: One Wedding Wish

Camp David Farm, Spring Hill

Camp David wedding
Photo credit: Camp David farm

Canterbury Gardens, Canterbury

Canterbury Gardens weddings
Photo credit: Canterbury Neighbourhood Centre

Carlton Gardens, Carlton 

Carlton gardens weddings
Photo credit: Weekend Notes

Carousel, Albert Park

Carousel Albert Park weddings
Photo credit: The Style Co

Catani Gardens, St Kilda

Catani Gardens weddings
Photo credit: City of Port Phillip

Circa, The Prince Deck, St Kilda

Prince Deck weddings
Photo credit: Pinterest

Como House, South Yarra

Como House Weddings
Photo credit: Film Northeast Victoria

Convent Gallery, Daylesford

Convent Gallery weddings
Photo credit: Alli Oughtred

Coombe Yarra Valley, Coldstream

Coombe Yarra Valley weddings
Photo credit: Lost in Love

Cranbourne Botanic Gardens, Cranbourne

Cranbourne Botanical Gardens weddings
Photo credit: Garden Drum

Crown Aviary, Melbourne

Crown Aviary weddings
Photo credit: Venue Mob

Dalywaters Rose Farm

Photo credit: Film Victoria

Dandenong Ranges Botanical Gardens, Olinda

Photo credit: Weekend Traveller

Darling Gardens, Clifton Hill

Photo credit: Yarra City Council

Edinburgh Gardens, Fitzroy

Photo credit: Timeout

Emu Bottom Homestead

Photo credit: Hitched

Euroa Butter Factory, Euroa

Photo credit: Katie Harmsworth

Farm Vigano, South Morang

Photo credit: Pinterest

Fenix Events, Richmond

Photo credit: Fenix Events

Fitzroy Gardens, East Melbourne

Photo credit: City of Melbourne

Flagstaff Gardens, West Melbourne

Photo credit: eGuide travel

Flemington Racecourse, Flemington

Photo credit: Lightshell Photography

Flowerdale Estate, Strath Creek

Photo credit: Pinterest

Footscray Park, Maribyrnong

Photo credit: Australian Music Scene

Forest Edge, Gembrook

Photo credit: Bride Online

Gardens House, Melbourne

Photo credit: Theodore + Co

Glen Erin, Lancefield

Photo credit: Veru Photography

Goona Warra Vineyard, Sunbury

Photo credit: Winecraft

Greenfields, Albert Park

Photo credit: Greenfields Albert park

Grollo Equiset Garden at the National Gallery of Victoria

Photo credit: Peter Rowland

Gum Gully Farm, Silvan

Photo credit: Gum Gully Farm

Heide Museum of Modern Art, Bulleen

Photo credit: Heide Museum

Hyatt Place, Essendon Fields

Photo credit: Hyatt Place

Immerse in the Yarra Valley, Dixons Creek

Photo credit: Yarra Valley Wines

Jack Rabbit, Bellarine

Photo Credit: Jack Rabbit

JFK Memorial in the Treasury Gardens, East Melbourne

Photo credit: Melbourne Daily

Lake House, Daylesford

Photo credit: Lake House

Leonda by the Yarra, Hawthorn

Photo credit: Leonda by the Yarra

Lindenderry Estate, Red Hill

Photo credit: Paperlust

Luminare, South Melbourne

Photo credit: HoorayMagazine

Luna Park, St Kilda

Photo credit: Hidden City Secrets

Lyrebird Falls, Kallista

Photo credit: Ateia Photography

Mandala Wines, Dixons Creek

Photo credit: Visit Yarra Valley

Marybrooke Manor, Sherbrooke

Photo credit: Immerse Photography

Meadowbank Receptions, Campbellfield

Photo credit: Meadowbank receptions

Melbourne Botanical Gardens

Photo credit: Distinctive Photography

Melbourne Museum, Carlton

Photo credit: Museum Spaces

Melbourne Zoo, Parkville

Photo credit: Zoos Victoria

Montsalvat, Eltham

Photo credit: T-One Photography

Overnewton Castle, Keilor

Photo credit: Overnewton Castle

Park Hyatt, Melbourne 

Photo Credit: Real Weddings

Pioneer Women’s Memorial Garden, Melbourne

Photo credit: My Open Garden

Poets Lane, Sherbrooke

Photo credit: T-One Images

Port Melbourne Yacht Club

Photo credit: Peter Rowland

Port Phillip Estate, Red Hill South

Photo credit: Lost In Love

Portsea Hotel, Portsea

Photo credit: Travel Victoria

Quat Quatta, Ripponlea

Photo credit: One Wedding Wish

Queen Victoria Gardens, Melbourne

Photo credit: Marriage Ceremonies Melbourne

RACV Healesville

Photo credit: RACV Healesville

Red Hill Estate, Red Hill

Photo credit: The Barn Balnarring

Redwood Forest, East Warburton 

Photo credit: Visit Warburton

Rippon Lea Estate, Elsternwick

Photo credit: Party with Lenzo

Riva, St Kilda

Photo credit: Zomato

Riverstone Estate, Coldstream

Photo credit: Aria Photography

Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron, St Kilda

Photo credit: Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron

Sandringham Gardens, Sandringham

Photo credit: TappaNappa

Sandringham Yacht Club, Sandringham

Photo credit: Meriki Comito

Sault, Daylesford

Photo credit: Sault Daylesford

Scienceworks, Spotswood

Photo credit: Hidden City Secrets

Secret Garden at Sky High, Mount Dandenong

Photo credit: Flickr

State Rose Garden, Werribee

Photo credit: Barefoot Cinema

St Kilda Botanical Gardens, St Kilda

Photo credit: Weddings Of Distinction

St Kilda Pier, St Kilda  | Little Blue Restaurant

Photo credit: HeraldSun

Stones of the Yarra Valley, Coldstream

Photo credit: Stones of the Yarra Valley

Studley Park Boathouse, Fairfield 

Photo credit: My Guide Melbourne

St Vincents Garden, Albert Park

Photo credit: Propoerty Observer

Summerfields Estate, Bittern

Photo credit: Vision City

Tanglewood Estate, Dromana

Photo credit: Dan Brannan Phorography

Tatra, Mount Dandenong

Photo credit: Parties 2 Weddings

Terindah Estate, Bellarine

Photo credit: Smudge Eats

The Farm Yarra Valley, Warrandyte

Photo credit: Bridal Expos Australia

The Gables, Malvern

Photo credit: Herald Sun

Vines of the Yarra Valley, Coldstream

Photo credit: Vines of the Yarra Valley

Vue on Halcyon, Chirnside Park

Photo credit: Meriki Comito

Werribee Mansion, Werribee

Photo credit: Wedding Chicks

Williamstown Botanical Gardens, Williamstown

Photo credit: Victorian Collections

Windmill Gardens, Bonnie Brook

Photo credit: Tree Studio

Witchmount Estate, Bonnie Brook

Photo credit: Easy Weddings

Yarra Ranges Estate, Monbulk

Photo credit: Hitched

Yarra Valley Estate, Dixons Creek 

Photo credit: Party with Lenzo

Yering Station, Yering

Photo credit: Michael Biggs

Zonzo Estate, Yarra Glen

Photo credit: Rick Liston

 

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Patricia + Samuel’s Werribee Mansion Wedding

Patricia and Sam began their day with a traditional Tea Ceremony at home. This allowed them to honour their families’ Chinese/Malaysian heritage with traditional elements.
Their Werribee Mansion Wedding continued on with the same amount of elegance, grace, humour and fun that these two embodied.
This wedding had everything. Incredible styling, amazing florals, brilliant sunshine, and a perfect sparkler exit.
A truly beautiful, kind and fun-loving couple certainly deserved such magical day.

The Meeting

A marriage nine years in the making, it took the first two years of sitting next to each other in med school for Sam to muster up enough courage to ask Patricia out on a date.

Unfortunately for Sam, Patricia declined his first invite. His subsequent persistence paid off though and resulted in an official date soon after!
They supported each other through all the stressful study times that followed and bonded over a mutual love of Gelato. A love which consequently supported their decision to hire a gelato cart for the big day!

The Proposal

Sam decided to propose on Christmas Day. He thought it would be hilarious to throw Patricia off with a multi layered wrapped present containing romantic letters and cards, revealing an ugly Christmas jumper at the end. The prank backfired though as Patricia was overjoyed with the  jumper! So Samuel quickly bent to one knee and revealed the much more valuable and sparkly present from his pocket!

The Vows

Patricia vowed to cook Sam’s favourite chicken rice more often than once every 3 years and promised to “choose you every day, a million times over, not because I have to, but because I want to.”
Sam declared Patricia as the most “charming, beautiful, intelligent and graceful” woman he knew (we all agree!), promised to always bring her ice-cream, and ended with AA Milnes’ “If you live to be a hundred, I want to live to be a hundred minus one day so I never have to live without you”.

The Wedding Details

Patricia and Sam secured the services of wedding planner Sarah Wang, from Blooming Love Events to help create their special day alongside Bursaria the Refectory. Enlisting the services of Ivy & Eve, Dann Event Hire and a team of other fabulous suppliers, Sarah produced the most incredible setting for Patricia and Sam to say their I Do’s!

The Photographer

Patricia and Sam chose the amazingly talented Jesse Hiscoe to capture all the details, and I thank him for allowing me to share his beautiful images with you! The smiles he captured say it all!

Contact Meriki to discuss your special day HERE!

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Patricia + Samuel | 22.02.2020

Photography: Jesse Hiscoe 
Ceremony Location: Werribee Mansion
Reception: Bursaria The Refectory
Videography: Lovely Day Films
Marriage Celebrant: Meriki Comito 
Bridal Gown: Enzoani | Eternal Bridal
Planning/Styling: Blooming Love Events
Florals: Ivy & Eve
Ceremony seating: Dann Event Hire
Ceremony Music: Stringspace
Cake: Nobody Hates Cake

Larissa + Paul’s Greenfields Albert Park Wedding

Initially planning to marry at an outdoor location, strong weather warnings led Larissa + Paul to make a very wise, last minute decision, to move their ceremony to the indoor sanctuary of their reception venue, and have a Greenfields Albert Park wedding.

The staff at Greenfields Albert Park, together with the amazing Tori Allen Events team, were absolute superstars in setting up a beautifully elegant ceremony area indoors, where guests and vendors alike gathered gratefully within the welcoming, warm and light filled space.

Acoustic artist, Emma, from Top Dog Entertainment provided the perfect start to proceedings, as Larissa made her way down the aisle, in a stunning Suzanne Harward creation, to stand beside her clearly smitten Paul.

The Meeting

Larissa and Paul told me they felt an instant attraction from the the first moment they laid eyes on each other, but once they started working together, the chemistry between them was undeniable and they bonded very quickly over their shared values, similar sense of humour, a deep love for family + friends, and passion for good food, great wine and a desire to travel the world.

The Vows

In her vows, Larissa told Paul that she knew from their first date that he was the one she wanted to spend her life with, and that he was the most amazing person she had ever known.
And Paul told Larissa that he had loved her from the first moment they met and that she made his life better in every way.

The Photographer

The lovely and talented Amanda Alessi and Suzie from Lovely Day Films were there to capture all the details of the day and I thank Amanda and the new Mr + Mrs A for allowing me to share their incredible images!

Contact Meriki to discuss your special day HERE!

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Larissa + Paul | 15.02.2020

Photography: Amanda Alessi Photography
Ceremony Location: Greenfields Albert Park
Videography: Lovely Day Films
Celebrant: Meriki Comito 
Bridal Gown: Suzanne Harward
Styling: Tori Allen Events
Music: Top Dog Entertainment

Kylie + Duncan’s stunning Luminare Wedding

Kylie + Duncan’s Melbourne city wedding was not only about celebrating the love of a  super fun and incredibly kind couple at one of my favourite venues, Luminare, but was made next level amazing when their adorable fur babies joined them down the aisle too!

The Meeting

When Kylie and Duncan first met, Kylie knew Duncan was special when she noticed that he had just finished cooking and was cleaning up after himself in the kitchen!
Duncan saw Kylie as a cute + smart, dog loving, lawyer, who liked to play Xbox and had free VIP tickets to music festivals.

Kylie loved that Duncan shared her sense of humour and got as excited over dogs as she did.
Duncan loved the free music festival tickets.

Duncan gave Kylie a grape-flavoured ‘ring pop’ during one of their first trips away together (which she still has!), but realised that he wanted to marry her for real when he realised that Kylie could build pre-packaged Ikea furniture faster than he could.

The Proposal

The adoption of Holly, Charlie and Mac confirmed their commitment to one another and after a hilariously chaotic proposal that involved all three crazy fur babies, Kylie agreed to marry Duncan and their #kyliejoinsthejoiners Melbourne wedding was born!

The Wedding details

Apart from some heartfelt and hilarious Vows, there was a Donut Wall, a Gin Bar, a Fly-away Veil, a Champagne Tower, a Sparkler Exit and of course the three fur babies – thanks to superstar Melbourne wedding dog handlers Katie + Mark from Heads + Tails! What a celebration!

The Photographer

The fabulous Jenna Fahey White captured their amazing day, together with the brilliant team from
Film My Wedding, and I thank them and the new Mr + Mrs J for allowing me to share their amazing images + footage!

Luminare Wedding South Melbourne

Luminare Wedding South Melbourne

Luminare Wedding South Melbourne

Luminare Wedding South Melbourne

Luminare Wedding South Melbourne

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Luminare South Melbourne indoor wedding

Luminare South Melbourne indoor wedding

Luminare Wedding South Melbourne

Luminare Wedding South Melbourne

Luminare Wedding South Melbourne

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Luminare South Melbourne indoor wedding

Luminare South Melbourne indoor wedding

Luminare South Melbourne indoor wedding

Luminare South Melbourne indoor wedding

Luminare South Melbourne indoor wedding

Luminare South Melbourne indoor wedding

Luminare South Melbourne indoor wedding

 

Luminare South Melbourne wedding

Luminare South Melbourne wedding

Luminare South Melbourne Wedding

Luminare South Melbourne Wedding

Luminare South Melbourne Wedding

Luminare South Melbourne Wedding

Luminare South Melbourne Wedding

Luminare South Melbourne Wedding

Luminare South Melbourne Wedding

Check out the awesome highlights film by Film my Wedding

 

Kylie + Duncan | 16.06.2018

Photography: Jenna Fahey White
Ceremony Location: Luminare
Videography: Film My Wedding 
Celebrant: Meriki Comito 
Bridal Gown: Mariana Hardwick
Flowers : Lulu Bird
Dog Handlers: Heads + Tails