Rainy Day Weddings – Do you have a plan B?

Feature Image by Ben Swinnerton 

Is it going to rain on my wedding day?

Nothing sets off the fear in many a brides heart more than the thought of rain on their wedding day.
Weather is the one element you have no control over, but as long as you have a perfect “Plan B”, you can still have a perfect rainy day wedding!

Have the conversation

One of the first points of discussion at all my planning meetings with couples who have chosen to marry outdoors, is what they plan to do if it pours with rain.

Most brides will have an alternative location already in place, which is amazing, but for those of you who are either crossing your fingers that it won’t rain, or attempting to use the power of prayer, voodoo, positive thinking or threats on someone’s life to prevent it from raining, I can tell you now with absolute certainty, that Melbourne weather is ridiculously unpredictable. It doesn’t care how desperately you want that beautiful sunny garden wedding and can totally ruin every one of those HOURS you have spent planning and preparing for that one big day.

Rainy wedding day

Your guests should remember your wedding for the RIGHT reasons..

No bride or groom ever dreams of arriving at the ceremony looking spectacular, only to get out of the car and get completely soaked whilst they sink into the soggy ground down the aisle. And let’s not forget about your guests and husband to be, who have been waiting there 15-30 minutes prior to your arrival, miserably clutching an umbrella, or huddling under the nearest tree. In my experience, guests will often refuse to take a seat at a rainy day wedding, preferring to shelter under a tree rather than sit on a wet chair and be close enough to hear the beautiful vows you have spent weeks perfecting.

Couple walking alone through a park in the rain with an umbrella on their wedding day
Photo by LJM Photography

On a personal note

Oh, and just from my perspective as a celebrant, outdoor rainy day weddings do not provide an ideal situation for us either. It’s rather difficult to stand in the rain holding an umbrella, and balancing a ceremony script folder, or device, and microphone all at the same time. Even in the cases of a light shower, our sound systems and legal documents don’t tend to do very well when they get wet, so you may find yourself without sound, or a soggy marriage certificate as a keepsake!

Couple sharing a first kiss at their wedding in the rain under an umbrella
Image by Joseph Koprek Photography

An easy, budget friendly plan sometimes isn’t enough

Some couples will arrange for shelter in the form of market umbrellas or gazebos in the event of a rainy day wedding. These are perfect for the days when there’s just some light rain or drizzle, but you will still need to be prepared in the case of heavier rain, as those options will not make any difference when the rain is coming in sideways!

Bride and Groom looking into each others eyes under an umbrella at their rainy day wedding
Image by Gerard Assi

Many brides are totally against a plan B, as they are determined to have their outdoor wedding rain, hail or shine, but trust me when I say that unless dancing in the rain is your thing (and rainy day wedding photos can of course be absolutely magical!),  getting completely soaked during the legal parts and having grumpy, wet guests arriving at your reception afterwards is by no way going to contribute to your idea of a perfect day.

Talk to your reception venue

A lot of venues have some beautiful rainy day wedding options, and if you’re lucky enough to book a venue that provides exclusivity, you can normally select which option you would prefer to go with, only a few hours in advance!

Plan B wedding ceremony option at Luminare in South Melbourne
Image by Meriki Comito

In other cases, if your venue is not able to provide an alternative rainy day option, they will most likely allow you to move your ceremony into the space you have booked for your reception.

In short, putting a solid wet weather contingency in place, will provide you with absolute peace of mind that no matter what the weather, you will be guaranteed a truly beautiful Plan B that can actually leave your guests thinking it was the Plan A all along! All it needs is a little organising in advance, so that every one of your suppliers can make sure it happens!

Bride and groom sharing a kiss at their rainy day wedding
Image by Jerome Cole Photography

In the end

But the most important point to remember is that at the end of the day, regardless of the fact that you have no control over the weather, you will be married to the person you have chosen to spend the rest of your life with, and that’s something the weather will make no difference to!

So if you’re planning an outside ceremony, and you don’t have a wet weather contingency, the following fabulous suppliers can help you to lock in your dream Plan B!
Otherwise just ask your humble celebrant. I’m pretty certain they’ll be able to send you in the right direction. Just for peace of mind x

 

Dann Event Hire
Harry The Hirer
The Style Co
Weddings of Distinction

For more Wedding Day planning tips + ideas, have a look at “Do I need a Wedding Videographer?

meriki@simplycelebrant.com.au
0417 394 792

Ellen + Lachy’s The Farm Yarra Valley Wedding

First Meeting

First meeting at ‘Electric Lady Land’ on Chapel Street, Lachy thought Ellen looked hot and seemed fun to talk to.
Ellen found Lachy to be kind of quiet, but she liked the way he ran his fingers through is hair, so after discovering a mutual appreciation of good food & wine, they bonded over the fact that they had both worked at wineries, both shared a love of animals, and both enjoyed each other’s company immensely.

Ceremony Details

In a laughter filled ceremony at one of Yarra Valley’s newer wedding venues, The Farm Yarra Valley, Ellen and Lachy became husband and wife.

Ellen was so on trend in a fabulous Amaline Vitale Bridal & Couture gown (with pockets – always a win in my mind!) as she stood hand in hand with her handsome groom before a giant steel + floral Ceremony Circle by Sassafras Flower Design.

After receiving the best wishes of each and every guest, we were treated to two awesome readings by close friends, before Ellen and Lachy exchanged vows declaring “It is your heart that moves me, your spirit that inspires me, your humour that delights me, and your hand I want to hold for all of our days”

Their first kiss brought thunderous cheers and applause before squeals of excitement when I announced that the newlyweds had organized an Easter Egg hunt immediately after!
So much fun!!

The Photographer

Beautiful images by Anitra Wells / Photographer who is always so fabulous work with!

The Farm Yarra Valley Wedding

The Farm Yarra Valley Wedding

The Farm Yarra Valley Wedding

The Farm Yarra Valley Wedding

The Farm Yarra Valley Wedding
The Farm Yarra Valley Wedding

The Farm Yarra Valley Wedding

The Farm Yarra Valley Wedding

The Farm Yarra Valley Wedding

The Farm Yarra Valley Wedding

The Farm Yarra Valley Wedding

The Farm Yarra Valley Wedding

The Farm Yarra Valley Wedding

The Farm Yarra Valley Wedding

The Farm Yarra Valley Wedding

The Farm Yarra Valley Wedding

The Farm Yarra Valley Wedding

The Farm Yarra Valley Wedding

The Farm Yarra Valley Wedding

The Farm Yarra Valley Wedding

The Farm Yarra Valley Wedding

The Farm Yarra Valley Wedding

The Farm Yarra Valley Wedding

The Farm Yarra Valley Wedding

The Farm Yarra Valley Wedding

The Farm Yarra Valley Wedding

The Farm Yarra Valley Wedding

The Farm Yarra Valley Wedding

Ellen + Lachy | 15.04.2017

Photography: Anitra Wells
Ceremony & Reception Location: The Farm Yarra Valley
Celebrant: Meriki Comito 
Flowers + Ceremony Circle: Sassafras Flowers
Bridal Gown: Amaline Vitale
Cheese Wheel Cake: The Farm Yarra Valley

 

Best Outdoor Wedding Venues + Locations  →

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

 

My Top 10 Most Asked Questions!

“I’ve never done this before, so I have no idea where to start”

Every new couple I meet with, even those who have been married previously, have questions regarding the marriage ceremony and what they need to factor into their planning. Just about every couple I have “worked” with, will know that I take at least 15-20 minutes at the beginning of our initial meeting to establish what to expect during their wedding ceremony planning journey, but I will ALWAYS allow for a question/answer time, (once we have discussed all the important things like whether or not they have found their dream wedding dress!) as I know at least one of these following questions will pop up!
Main Photo Credit: Loco Photography


Let’s start at #10 and work our way through to the #1 most popular question.

10. “IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT MAKES A GREAT WEDDING CEREMONY?”

I believe this is very similar to asking someone what, in their opinion, makes a great holiday?
A great wedding is one that is absolutely perfect for you.
Every couple is different, so the more of yourselves you put into it, the more likely your ceremony will be everything you’re hoping for!
It should reflect not only who you are, but also what you love, and what you consider to be most important in life.
It should be fun, romantic, sweet, hilarious, serious, formal, casual, lighthearted, traditional, totally random, or all of the above, but most of all, it should be meaningful to you, should be memorable for all the right reasons and should create all the feels you would like to see shine through in your photos  – your memories of that one big moment you will come back to for the rest of your life.
Finding a marriage celebrant who understands you, can offer you ideas that inspire you, and with whom you feel confident can create this magical moment with you is SO very important, so please take the time to get to know a few of us!

Questions to ask your celebrant       Photo Credit: Candid Captures

9. “WHAT DO YOU (as a celebrant) NORMALLY WEAR?”

Whatever you would like me to!
This is something I will always discuss with every couple, to ensure I complement their colour scheme and dress code on the big day. In fact I wouldn’t mind at all if you requested a specific colour dress that I didn’t already have in my wardrobe – any excuse to buy a new frock is a great one in my opinion! But don’t worry, unless it is specifically requested, I will NEVER wear white, in any form – that is for the bride and the bride only!

Questions to ask your celebrant       Photo Credit: Ben Differding

8. “CAN OUR VIDEOGRAPHER CONNECT TO YOUR YOUR PA?”

Absolutely! It means, in many cases, that you will have a much better quality sound for your wedding video, and I’m all for working with your suppliers to ensure you receive the best outcome in every aspect of your planning!
You are also welcome to pass on my details to them so they can contact me in the lead up to the big day to discuss any connection requirements.

Questions to ask your celebrant       Photo Credit: Gerard Assi

7.“WE’RE QUITE SHY, DO WE REALLY NEED TO USE MICROPHONES?”

In short, no, as long as your two official witnesses are close enough to hear you state your legal intentions.
The long answer is, your family and friends have all come along to hear you make a lifelong promise to one another and are so excited to be able to witness such an important moment in your lives, so unless you prefer that they sit and wonder what on earth it was that was said to make you smile, laugh, cry or all of the above, then yes, microphones are always a good idea, but I promise I won’t make you hold it yourself, i fact I’m happiest holding the microphone for you so you can concentrate on sharing the beautiful words you have written for each other!

Questions to ask your celebrant       
Photo Credit: Vlad Savin

6. “WHAT SHOULD WE DO IF OUR BABY STARTS CRYING IN THE MIDDLE OF THE CEREMONY?”

Babies cry. It’s a fact. If you have young children, the best thing to do is NOT assume that it will be a magical day where they won’t cry at all. The best thing to do is to accept that they probably will, so be prepared for that, and always have a nominated carer on hand to keep an eye on them at all times so you don’t have to!
I have conducted many ceremonies where young children are involved and I find it all works out for the best when you simply follow their lead and go with whatever happens on the day.
If they want to be held by one of you for the entire ceremony, then let them. Their squishy little face between you when you share your first kiss as a married couple will be captured by your photographer and will provide you all with the best memory in the years to come.
If they want to sit on the ground at your feet and play with the flowers/dirt/sand/grass/ shoelaces/ empty ring box/ cracks between the floorboards or anything else that amuses them, then let them.
If they want to be held by you one minute, then your mum the next, or the bridesmaid or groomsman, or any other random guests that captures their attention, then let them.
And if they want to grab my microphone and say hello with a big cheesy (and sometimes dribbly) grin, then believe me, I will let them do that too 🙂
Don’t worry if they get dirty. Don’t worry if they don’t want to smile perfectly for the camera. Don’t worry if they rip off their flower crown/boutonniere/vest/jacket/ shoes before they’ve even made it down the aisle. And don’t worry if they want to stand up the front and pull faces at you, at your guests, at your photographer, or at me – it will be really funny (about a week later for you maybe), and everyone will look really happy in all your photos! Trust me.

Questions to ask your celebrant       Photo Credit: Kate Deagan Photography

5.“WHAT AGE WOULD BE CONSIDERED TOO YOUNG FOR A FLOWER GIRL/PAGE BOY/RING BEARER?”

Well, if they can’t walk down the aisle themselves, most would consider them too young.
Unless a parent carrying their child down the aisle adds significant meaning to your day, I would advise against it, as the parent can sometimes appear embarrassed, leading to a rather awkward start to the ceremony….

Questions to ask your celebrant        Photo Credit: Nicole Taranto Photography

4. “HOW LONG DO YOU NORMALLY STAY FOR AFTER THE CEREMONY?”

Long enough to a) Watch you receive lots of congratulatory hugs + kisses from your family + friends,
b) Pass your marriage certificate on to a nominated person of your choice (that you have already decided on in the lead up to the big day), c) Pack up all my equipment, and d) Give you a hug goodbye with my very best wishes for a fabulous celebration!
Oh, and if there is champagne going around, I may make a quick toast to your future as a new Mr + Mrs!

Questions to ask your celebrant       Photo Credit:ProShot Photography

3.“WE DON’T WANT A REHEARSAL, BUT HOW WILL WE KNOW WHAT TO DO ON THE DAY IF WE DON’T HAVE ONE?”

No problem at all! That’s what I am there for!
I will always discuss ceremony details at our final meeting leading up to the big day, to ensure that I understand your brief exactly regarding every moment of how you would like the ceremony to run.
I will meet you when you arrive and will discuss your entrance with your venue co-ordinator to ensure it runs smoothly. If you don’t have a venue coordinator, I will assist you with your arrival and your entrance.
I will show your bridesmaids where to stand after they walk down the aisle to ensure they are nice and symmetrical to the groomsmen. But if your bridal party is uneven, I will work with numbers to ensure you are all still positioned perfectly for photos.
I will guide you through every aspect of the ceremony from start to finish and will ensure both you and anyone else involved directly in the ceremony knows what they are doing and are confident in their individual roles. You won’t need to worry about a thing!

Questions to ask your celebrant       Photo Credit: Blumenthal

2.“WHAT WILL I DO IF I START CRYING DURING MY VOWS AND CAN’T SAY THEM?”

Again, try not to overthink this part.
In most cases, you have never done anything like this before, so how can you possibly imagine how you are going to feel and react? You can’t. So don’t even try. Just go with it, and like with everything else, be prepared for anything.
But know that I will always be there to help you through those ridiculously unpredictable emotions.
Trust me, I’ve done this a few times now and I’m pretty good at keeping those words flowing and turning sobs into smiles, but I will always let the tears with the feels fall if it means that your partner (and all your family and friends) can see just how much you mean to each other x

Questions to ask your celebrant       Photo Credit: Doux Wedding Corp

And the number one question most brides ask……..

1. “WHAT NAME DO I SIGN ON THE MARRIAGE CERTIFICATE AT THE WEDDING?”

Your usual name! You have to actually sign the marriage certificate before you can be considered legally married and eligible for a change of name!

Questions to ask your celebrant        Photo Credit: Luke Lornie Photography


****************

As I said, these are only MY top 10, but if you have any other questions in regards to your wedding ceremony (and there is absolutely no such thing as a silly one!) please feel free to contact me at any time!

 

Kate + Lars’ Chateau Doré Wedding

The Event

Kate + Lars decided on a peaceful french provincial inspired Chateau Doré Wedding to celebrate their love and their family.

As family & friends gathered from as far as Germany, Kate & Lars’s ADORABLE baby boy Sebastian arrived dressed in the cutest traditional ‘Lederhosen’ to the absolute delight of person present!

Grateful for my mother’s Austrian heritage, I was thrilled to be able to welcome Lars’ family in their mother tongue as well as incorporate a few German phrases into the ceremony itself!

The Meeting

Kate and Lars’ first meeting in Spain was one of those real ‘sliding door’ moments in life, when Kate stopped in Spain at the beginning of a 12 month world trip to join a Spanish language class, and met Lars a few days into her extended stay.

Kate thought Lars looked like a school boy swinging on the back of his chair in the Library, and Lars thought the same thing about Kate after spotting her strolling through the streets with her cute little backpack on! But when they were both invited to join a mutual friend for lunch, they hit it off immediately, and Kate cancelled her other travel plans to spend as much time in Spain with Lars as possible.

Six weeks later, Kate was obliged to continue on her world tour, but both she and Lars knew that their time together was so much more than just a summer romance, and Kate made arrangements to meet Lars on his home ground in Hamburg on December 12th 2009 – six years exactly before they married at the beautiful Chateau Doré in country Victoria.

The Vows

Kate said that she loved Lars’s “genuine & pure love of life and that he sees the very best in every person he meets”, and Lars said that Kate “makes everything you do, feel & experience together absolutely amazing”.

After exchanging rings with a mixture of both German & English vows, Kate & Lars shared one of the most passionate first kisses that I have ever seen to the loudest of cheers!

The Photographer

One of my favourite industry pros, Alli Oughtred, was there to capture it all xx

Chateau Doré Wedding

Chateau Doré Wedding

Chateau Doré Wedding

Chateau Doré Wedding

Chateau Doré Wedding

Chateau Doré Wedding

Chateau Doré Wedding

Chateau Doré Wedding

Chateau Doré Wedding

Chateau Doré Wedding

Chateau Doré Wedding

Chateau Doré Wedding

Chateau Doré Wedding

Chateau Doré Wedding

Chateau Doré Wedding

Chateau Doré Wedding

Chateau Doré Wedding

Chateau Doré Wedding

Chateau Doré Wedding

Chateau Doré Wedding

Chateau Doré Wedding

Chateau Doré Wedding

Chateau Doré Wedding

Chateau Doré Wedding

Chateau Doré Wedding

Chateau Doré Wedding

Chateau Doré Wedding

Chateau Doré Wedding

Chateau Doré Wedding

Chateau Doré Wedding

Chateau Doré Wedding

Chateau Doré Wedding

Chateau Doré Wedding

Chateau Doré Wedding

 

Kate + Lars | 12.12.2015

Celebrant: Meriki Comito
Ceremony & Reception Location: Chateau Dore
Photography: Alli Oughtred Wedding Photography
Flowers: The Eternal Vase

 

Rain on your wedding day – Do you have a Plan B? →

← Ceremony Entrances – know your options! 

Sharmaine & David’s Luminare Wedding

What does marriage mean to you?

When I asked David and Sharmaine what marriage meant to them, they recited a quote that struck a real chord with them. It read, “love is a friendship set on fire – a combination of everyday life and magic bundled into one. Love has the unique ability to transform the webs and pillars of everyday life into silk and gold. It is more than a feeling or emotion, concept or theory; it is a being.”

After all the traditional Chinese customs in the morning, I was waiting with David on the rooftop deck at Luminare, when admitted that he was very much looking forward to seeing Sharmaine make her way down the aisle. I’m pretty certain that she most definitely exceeded his expectations as she stepped into the sunshine, absolutely exquisite in Anna Campbell.

First Meeting

David and Sharmaine first met at University about 8 years ago. David recalled his first impressions of Sharmaine as being that she was very small, but very pretty! Sharmaine admitted that she loves the fact that David is tall enough to reach all the things that she can’t!

True love

All jokes aside, David & Sharmaine also share an incredible connection and found themselves wanting to share all the important moments in their lives quite early in their relationship, eventually leading to David’s amazing mid-air proposal.

Sharmaine said that she loves how well she & David understand one another and that he is so open minded, with  the endearing quality of being both patient and impatient all at the same time.

David said that Sharmaine is caring and compassionate and absolutely beautiful, inside and out. He also loves that she supports him 100% in any decision he makes, always offering encouragement in any endeavour he decides to embark on.

Wedding Symbolism

Incorporating a hand fasting ritual to provide a visual representation of their commitment,  Sharmaine & David’s hands were bound with silver & white ribbons to represent purity, peace, creativity & inspiration, before they shared their first kiss as husband & wife to the absolute joy of all their family & friends.

Photo credit

These exquisite images by Jonathan Ong captured every ounce of this couples’ outer AND inner beauty and the absolute pure love they both radiated & elicited. What an absolute pleasure it was to declare them husband & wife! xx

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sharmaine & David's Luminare Wedding | Photo: www.jonathanong.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sharmaine & David's Luminare Wedding | Photo: www.jonathanong.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sharmaine & David's Luminare Wedding | Photo: www.jonathanong.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sharmaine & David's Luminare Wedding | Photo: www.jonathanong.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sharmaine & David's Luminare Wedding | Photo: www.jonathanong.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sharmaine & David's Luminare Wedding | Photo: www.jonathanong.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sharmaine & David's Luminare Wedding | Photo: www.jonathanong.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sharmaine & David's Luminare Wedding | Photo: www.jonathanong.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sharmaine & David's Luminare Wedding | Photo: www.jonathanong.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sharmaine & David's Luminare Wedding | Photo: www.jonathanong.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sharmaine & David's Luminare Wedding | Photo: www.jonathanong.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sharmaine & David's Luminare Wedding | Photo: www.jonathanong.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sharmaine & David's Luminare Wedding | Photo: www.jonathanong.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sharmaine & David's Luminare Wedding | Photo: www.jonathanong.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sharmaine & David's Luminare Wedding | Photo: www.jonathanong.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sharmaine & David's Luminare Wedding | Photo: www.jonathanong.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sharmaine & David's Luminare Wedding | Photo: www.jonathanong.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sharmaine & David's Luminare Wedding | Photo: www.jonathanong.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sharmaine & David's Luminare Wedding | Photo: www.jonathanong.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sharmaine & David's Luminare Wedding | Photo: www.jonathanong.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sharmaine & David's Luminare Wedding | Photo: www.jonathanong.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sharmaine & David's Luminare Wedding | Photo: www.jonathanong.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sharmaine & David's Luminare Wedding | Photo: www.jonathanong.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sharmaine & David's Luminare Wedding | Photo: www.jonathanong.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sharmaine & David's Luminare Wedding | Photo: www.jonathanong.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sharmaine & David's Luminare Wedding | Photo: www.jonathanong.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sharmaine & David's Luminare Wedding | Photo: www.jonathanong.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sharmaine & David's Luminare Wedding | Photo: www.jonathanong.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sharmaine & David's Luminare Wedding | Photo: www.jonathanong.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sharmaine & David's Luminare Wedding | Photo: www.jonathanong.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sharmaine & David's Luminare Wedding | Photo: www.jonathanong.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sharmaine & David's Luminare Wedding | Photo: www.jonathanong.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sharmaine & David's Luminare Wedding | Photo: www.jonathanong.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sharmaine & David's Luminare Wedding | Photo: www.jonathanong.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sharmaine & David's Luminare Wedding | Photo: www.jonathanong.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sharmaine & David's Luminare Wedding | Photo: www.jonathanong.com

Sharmaine & David | 27.12.2014

Celebrant: Meriki Comito
Ceremony & Reception Location: Luminare
Styling & Florals: Tori Allen Events
Bridal Gown: Anna Campbell
Photography: Jonathan Ong
Videography: The White Tree
Ceremony Music: The White Tree

Sarah & Tysons’s Private Estate Rustic Wedding

Amy Deluca & her team at Blakes Feast catering, together with the styling brilliance of Georgie Campbell & The Marquee People created the most amazing space on Tyson’s family property for the celebration of their amazing private estate rustic wedding.

The Meeting

Sarah & Tyson met whilst they were working as extras on a Bollywood movie set and clicked immediately, but spent their first few dates as self-appointed wing men when Sarah’s sister & Tyson’s brother developed an interest in one another. A fabulous friendship soon developed into something more serious, with Tyson & Sarah deciding to take the next step into becoming an official couple after a highly entertaining Super Mario Cart challenge!

The Vows

After his impressive Canadian Rocky Mountains proposal, Tyson stood before Sarah on their wedding day and declared “As soon as we met I knew it was something I had never felt before, as if I had known you my entire life”, after Sarah, composed and absolutely exquisite in a Jane Hill gown, named Tyson as “the most generous, loving and captivating person I know”.

Wonderful readings from Tyson & Sarah’s sister’s provided a warmth and joy that only comes from loving members of the family, before the newlyweds shared their first kiss as husband & wife to whoops & cheers from their thrilled family & friends.

The Photographer

I hope these amazing images by dynamic duo superstars Melissa & Jerry Ghionis give you a little bit of an insight as to how incredibly beautiful this celebration was!

 

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sarah & Tyson's Country Wedding | Photo: www.jerryghionis.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sarah & Tyson's Country Wedding | Photo: www.jerryghionis.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sarah & Tyson's Country Wedding | Photo: www.jerryghionis.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sarah & Tyson's Country Wedding | Photo: www.jerryghionis.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sarah & Tyson's Country Wedding | Photo: www.jerryghionis.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sarah & Tyson's Country Wedding | Photo: www.jerryghionis.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sarah & Tyson's Country Wedding | Photo: www.jerryghionis.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sarah & Tyson's Country Wedding | Photo: www.jerryghionis.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sarah & Tyson's Country Wedding | Photo: www.jerryghionis.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sarah & Tyson's Country Wedding | Photo: www.jerryghionis.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sarah & Tyson's Country Wedding | Photo: www.jerryghionis.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sarah & Tyson's Country Wedding | Photo: www.jerryghionis.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sarah & Tyson's Country Wedding | Photo: www.jerryghionis.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sarah & Tyson's Country Wedding | Photo: www.jerryghionis.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sarah & Tyson's Country Wedding | Photo: www.jerryghionis.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sarah & Tyson's Country Wedding | Photo: www.jerryghionis.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sarah & Tyson's Country Wedding | Photo: www.jerryghionis.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sarah & Tyson's Country Wedding | Photo: www.jerryghionis.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sarah & Tyson's Country Wedding | Photo: www.jerryghionis.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sarah & Tyson's Country Wedding | Photo: www.jerryghionis.com

  Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sarah & Tyson's Country Wedding | Photo: www.jerryghionis.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sarah & Tyson's Country Wedding | Photo: www.jerryghionis.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sarah & Tyson's Country Wedding | Photo: www.jerryghionis.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sarah & Tyson's Country Wedding | Photo: www.jerryghionis.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sarah & Tyson's Country Wedding | Photo: www.jerryghionis.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sarah & Tyson's Country Wedding | Photo: www.jerryghionis.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sarah & Tyson's Country Wedding | Photo: www.jerryghionis.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sarah & Tyson's Country Wedding | Photo: www.jerryghionis.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sarah & Tyson's Country Wedding | Photo: www.jerryghionis.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sarah & Tyson's Country Wedding | Photo: www.jerryghionis.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sarah & Tyson's Country Wedding | Photo: www.jerryghionis.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sarah & Tyson's Country Wedding | Photo: www.jerryghionis.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sarah & Tyson's Country Wedding | Photo: www.jerryghionis.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sarah & Tyson's Country Wedding | Photo: www.jerryghionis.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sarah & Tyson's Country Wedding | Photo: www.jerryghionis.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sarah & Tyson's Country Wedding | Photo: www.jerryghionis.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sarah & Tyson's Country Wedding | Photo: www.jerryghionis.com

Melbourne Wedding Celebrant Meriki Comito | Sarah & Tyson's Country Wedding | Photo: www.jerryghionis.com

Sarah & Tyson | 17.01.2015

Celebrant: Meriki Comito
Ceremony & Reception Location: Tyson’s Family Property
Photography: Melissa & Jerry Ghionis
Bridal Gown: Jane Hill
Men’s Suits: Yd
Bridesmaid Dresses: Review
Catering: Blakes Feast
Florals: Georgie Campbell
Marquee: The Marquee People

Tran and Damon’s Grand Hyatt Melbourne Wedding

The Event

Tran + Damon decided that a Grand Hyatt Melbourne wedding would be the perfect way to celebrate their love.

They initially connected online, quite randomly one lazy Sunday afternoon, and within two days, they were having their first meeting over dinner.

Tran loved Damon’s patient & calm manner, and Damon loved Tran’s energy & confidence, so not long after, Tran very considerately helped Damon pick out her engagement ring, and on the 29th March they married in spectacular style at The Grand Hyatt Hotel in a Vietnamese/Australian fusion ceremony.

The Ceremony Details

Tran & Damon provided their guests with an Order of Service titled “So You’re Going To Sit Through A Wedding – A practical guide to not falling asleep and figuring out just what exactly is going on”.
It included interesting facts & past world events pertaining to their wedding date, a Sudoku challenge, the story behind the Tea Ceremony, all the details involving the wedding planning (ie. Dresses tried on = 2 & messages to bridesmaid = 900+) and of course, the names & titles of everyone involved in the wedding day!

In keeping with an ancient Vietnamese custom, Tran and Damon chose to incorporate a traditional Tea Ceremony into their celebration, to serve as a formal introduction into each other’s families. This ceremony is usually performed at home before the wedding takes place – sometimes with a cast of thousands! – but as Tran & Damon planned to include only their parents,  it was truly special to witness it as part of official proceedings, as it allowed all their guests (and me!) to experience it too. So beautiful.

The Vows

Tran promised “to live by and protect what we build together”, before Damon vowed “to love you in good times and in bad, with all I have to give and all that I am, in the only way I know how – completely and forever.”

The Photography

These gorgeous photos by the super talented Alli Oughtred have captured all the love & joy of their day perfectly x

 

Grand Hyatt Wedding

Grand Hyatt Wedding

Grand Hyatt Wedding

Grand Hyatt Wedding

Grand Hyatt WeddingGrand Hyatt Melbourne Wedding

Grand Hyatt Melbourne Wedding

Grand Hyatt Melbourne Wedding

Grand Hyatt Melbourne Wedding

Grand Hyatt Melbourne Wedding

Grand Hyatt Melbourne Wedding

Grand Hyatt Melbourne Wedding

Grand Hyatt Melbourne Wedding

Grand Hyatt Melbourne Wedding

Grand Hyatt Melbourne Wedding

Grand Hyatt Melbourne Wedding

Grand Hyatt Melbourne Wedding

Grand Hyatt Melbourne Wedding

Grand Hyatt Melbourne Wedding

Grand Hyatt Melbourne Wedding

Grand Hyatt Melbourne Wedding

Grand Hyatt Melbourne Wedding

Grand Hyatt Melbourne Wedding

Grand Hyatt Melbourne Wedding

Grand Hyatt Melbourne Wedding

Grand Hyatt Melbourne Wedding

Grand Hyatt Melbourne Wedding

Grand Hyatt Melbourne Wedding

Grand Hyatt Melbourne Wedding

Grand Hyatt Melbourne Wedding

Grand Hyatt Melbourne Wedding

Grand Hyatt Melbourne Wedding

Grand Hyatt Melbourne Wedding

Grand Hyatt Melbourne Wedding

These gorgeous shots were taken in ACDC lane in Melbourne’s CBD

Grand Hyatt Melbourne Wedding

Grand Hyatt Melbourne Wedding

Grand Hyatt Melbourne Wedding

Grand Hyatt Melbourne Wedding

Grand Hyatt Melbourne Wedding

Grand Hyatt Melbourne Wedding

Grand Hyatt Melbourne Wedding

 

Tran & Damon | 29.03.2015

Celebrant: Meriki Comito
Ceremony & Reception Location: The Grand Hyatt Melbourne
Photography: Alli Oughtred Weddings
Florals: Balwyn Events
DJ/MC: Bruce Harrison

 

Do I need a Wedding Video? →

← The top 10 questions I get asked as a marriage celebrant 

Jacqui & Corey’s Sorrento Beach Wedding

The Event

Jacqui + Corey decided on a beautiful Sorrento Beach Wedding to declare there eternal love to one another.

Initailly introduced during a night out with mutual friends, Jacqui + Corey shared some fun banter, before Corey thought he’d impress Jacqui with his awesome dance moves.

Jacqui was immediately drawn to Corey’s sense of fun & amazing blue eyes, and the pair ended the evening enjoying their first unofficial date together, when they went across the road for fish & chips 😉

Deciding that he needed to see her again the very next day, to ensure that she was as gorgeous as he remembered, Corey stalked Jacqui at work and was very pleased to find that she was indeed just as beautiful in the light of day! So double dates with a couple of friends ensued and two months later, they were officially a couple.

Jacqui loved how easy going Corey was, that he was so much fun to be around and that his protective nature made her feel so incredibly special, and Corey was completely enchanted by Jacqui’s bubbly personality and killer smile.

The Ceremony Details

Jacqui was escorted down the aisle by her father, to Norah Jones’s “Come away with me” nine years later.

On the sun drenched Sorrento beach overlooking the vivid blue Port Phillip Bay, Corey was completely lost for words as Jacqui’s father lifted his daughter’s veil revealing the spectacular smile that Corey had come to know and love so well, before Jacqui held his hand and joyfully prepared to marry her best friend.

A sand ceremony that included sand from the very spot where Corey & Jacqui stood on the day,
served as a reminder of the beautiful location within which they became husband & wife, and
was completed with the blending of Blue & Yellow sand, added by Corey & Jacqui’s mums, to
symbolise the glorious sun and ocean.

The Vows

Jacqui promised that she would always hold Corey’s hand and told him “I love you, even more than
chocolate”, before Corey declared “You make my heart smile, and are my closest friend”.

The Photography

These gorgeous images by Robyn Swallow Photography say it all xx

 

Sorrento Beach Wedding

Sorrento Beach Wedding

Sorrento Beach Wedding

Sorrento Beach Wedding

Sorrento Beach Wedding

Sorrento Beach Wedding

Sorrento Beach Wedding

Sorrento Beach Wedding

Sorrento Beach Wedding

Sorrento Beach Wedding

Sorrento Beach Wedding

Sorrento Beach Wedding

Sorrento Beach Wedding

Sorrento Beach Wedding

Sorrento Beach Wedding

Sorrento Beach Wedding

Sorrento Beach Wedding

Sorrento Beach Wedding

Sorrento Beach Wedding

Sorrento Beach Wedding

Sorrento Beach Wedding

Sorrento Beach Wedding

Sorrento Beach Wedding

Sorrento Beach Wedding

Sorrento Beach Wedding

Sorrento Beach Wedding

Sorrento Beach Wedding

 

Jacqui & Corey | 02.04.2015

Celebrant: Meriki Comito
Ceremony & Reception Location: The Baths
Photography: Robyn Swallow Photography
Bridal Gown: Raffaele Ciuca Armadale
Men’s Suits: Yd
Bridesmaid Dresses: Review
Flowergirl dress made by the talented Maid of Honour!
Ceremony Styling: Circle of Love Weddings
Florals: Hello Blossums
Cake: Nikos Oakleigh Quality Cakes

 

The top 10 questions I get asked as a marriage celebrant →

← Great Beach Wedding Locations Melbourne

Seryn & Stuart’s Emu Bottom Homestead Wedding

After a hilarious proposal with a Cheezle ring during a camping trip, Seryn and Stuart chose to become husband + wife at at the beautiful Emu Bottom Homestead.

When Seryn’s busy life saw her give internet dating a try a few years ago, she was hoping to find someone who was down to earth and who possessed good manners.  When Stuart was first introduced to Seryn’s smiling face, he thought there was a chance she could be a little too high maintenance due to her love of “cocktails and horses”, but he thought her to be so very pretty, that he decided to take a chance.

Their smiles on the big day proved that chance was well worth it!

Flanked by four gorgeous flower girls as their only bridal party, Seryn & Stuart’s parents made a promise to love & support their children throughout their lives together as husband & wife before the the loved up pair vowed to “respect you, laugh with you, cry with you and love you faithfully through the good times and bad”.

A Holding Hands ritual and three sensational readings by members of Seryn & Stuart’s families ensured that the ceremony was romantic, personal and highly entertaining, before their first kiss as husband & wife almost raised the roof (with the groom’s head already practically touching it!)

Many thanks to Kim Selby Photography for these beautiful images of Seryn & Stuart’s perfect day xx

 

Melbourne Marriage Celebrant Meriki Comito | Seryn & Stuart's Emu Bottom Homestead Wedding | Photo: www.kimselbyphotography.com.au

Melbourne Marriage Celebrant Meriki Comito | Seryn & Stuart's Emu Bottom Homestead Wedding | Photo: www.kimselbyphotography.com.au

Melbourne Marriage Celebrant Meriki Comito | Seryn & Stuart's Emu Bottom Homestead Wedding | Photo: www.kimselbyphotography.com.au Melbourne Marriage Celebrant Meriki Comito | Seryn & Stuart's Emu Bottom Homestead Wedding | Photo: www.kimselbyphotography.com.au

Melbourne Marriage Celebrant Meriki Comito | Seryn & Stuart's Emu Bottom Homestead Wedding | Photo: www.kimselbyphotography.com.au

Melbourne Marriage Celebrant Meriki Comito | Seryn & Stuart's Emu Bottom Homestead Wedding | Photo: www.kimselbyphotography.com.au

Melbourne Marriage Celebrant Meriki Comito | Seryn & Stuart's Emu Bottom Homestead Wedding | Photo: www.kimselbyphotography.com.au

Melbourne Marriage Celebrant Meriki Comito | Seryn & Stuart's Emu Bottom Homestead Wedding | Photo: www.kimselbyphotography.com.au

Melbourne Marriage Celebrant Meriki Comito | Seryn & Stuart's Emu Bottom Homestead Wedding | Photo: www.kimselbyphotography.com.au

Melbourne Marriage Celebrant Meriki Comito | Seryn & Stuart's Emu Bottom Homestead Wedding | Photo: www.kimselbyphotography.com.au

Melbourne Marriage Celebrant Meriki Comito | Seryn & Stuart's Emu Bottom Homestead Wedding | Photo: www.kimselbyphotography.com.au

Melbourne Marriage Celebrant Meriki Comito | Seryn & Stuart's Emu Bottom Homestead Wedding | Photo: www.kimselbyphotography.com.au

Melbourne Marriage Celebrant Meriki Comito | Seryn & Stuart's Emu Bottom Homestead Wedding | Photo: www.kimselbyphotography.com.au

 

Seryn & Stuart | 21.03.2014

Celebrant: Meriki Comito
Venue: Emu Bottom Homestead
Photography: Kim Selby Photography

Amy & Jacob’s Tatra Garden Wedding

The Event

Amy + Jacob decided on a Tatra wedding in picturesque Mount Dandenong to celebrate their special day.

Jacob was first introduced to Amy during a St Patrick’s Day celebration, and he thought she was the most adorable thing he’d ever seen, though maybe way too stylish for him and his beer shirts.

But after Amy made her way down the aisle of the glass walled Tatra Chapel, Jacob stood before his beautiful bride, with not a beer shirt in sight and declared “Before you asked me, I was yours, and I am devoted to you in every way”.

Amy and Jacob chose some wonderful readings by Hilary T Smith, Victor Hugo and the Dalai Lama to celebrate their day, as well as a beautiful Celtic handfasting ritual, where they incorporated coloured ribbons to symbolise all the important qualities they are dedicated to bringing to their marriage.

A beautiful celebration combining traditional and spiritual elements – simply perfect x

The Photography

A huge thanks to the super lovely Timothy Burgess for allowing me to publish his images!

 Tatra Wedding

Tatra Wedding

Tatra Wedding

Tatra Wedding

Tatra Wedding

Tatra Wedding

Tatra Wedding

Tatra Wedding

Tatra Wedding

Tatra Wedding

Tatra Wedding

Tatra Wedding

Tatra Wedding

Tatra Wedding

Tatra Wedding

Tatra Wedding

Tatra Wedding

Tatra Wedding

Tatra Wedding

Tatra Wedding

Tatra Wedding

Tatra Wedding

Amy & Jacob | 28.11.2014

Celebrant: Meriki Comito
Venue: Tatra Receptions
Photography: Timothy Burgess

 

Rain on your wedding day – Do you have a Plan B? →

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