Every so often, I meet a couple who make me laugh and laugh and laugh. Meetings reserved for wedding planning somehow morph into lengthy discussions about Tuscany, Cuban jazz, wineries, vegetarian lasagne and Golden Retrievers, for example. This was the case when I first met with Steph and Damian. We clicked before we'd even ordered our coffee.
When I learned that Steph and Damian had chosen to hold their ceremony in the Harbour Room at the Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron, I was not at all surprised. A Friday evening rooftop ceremony in trendy St Kilda seemed a perfect choice for this exuberant couple. When they informed me that they'd also booked the über-talented and downright hilarious John Warren of Warrenphotography, and the super cool musicians from The White Tree, I was certain we were going to have a fabulous time.
Steph, radiant in her Mariana Hardwick gown, entered the rooftop on the arm of her proud father to The White Tree's rendition of Snow Patrol's Lifening. Much like her usual self, she smiled and laughed the entire way.
We began by introducing all the people who had made a marked impact on Steph and Damian's lives. Three such people were invited to come forward and present readings. One of the readings was taken from a Bruce Springsteen song.
If I Should Fall Behind
We said we’d walk together, come what may
That come the twilight, should we lose our way
If as we’re walking a hand should slip free
I’ll wait for you.
And should I fall behind wait for me.
We swore we’d travel darling side by side
We’d help each other stay in stride.
But each lover’s steps fall so differently
I'll wait for you.
And should I fall behind wait for me.
Now everyone dreams of a love lasting and true
But you and I know what this world can do.
So let's make our steps clear that the other may see
And I'll wait for you.
If I should fall behind, wait for me.
Now there's a beautiful river in the valley ahead
There beneath the oaks bough soon we will be wed.
Should we lose each other in the shadow of the evening trees
Darling I’ll wait for you.
And should I fall behind wait for me.
I then had the great pleasure of recounting their first meeting at the Corner Hotel; whereby Damian keenly pursued Steph.. and her plate of nachos, the hilarious case of mistaken identity on their first date at The Black Cat, Damian's many proposal hurdles, and their numerous and varied idiosyncrasies. Needless to say, their stories had us in stitches.
Damian and Steph composed their own vows. Their exchange was sincere and joyful.
"... Steph, I will cherish the happiness married life bestows upon us, and hope that one day we can raise a family who we will unconditionally love and support, just as we will each other..."
"... Damian, I look forward to growing together, learning more about you and falling in love a little more every day..."
Steph and Damian's parents and grand parents participated in a ring warming ceremony. Each person held the rings and made a silent wish or prayer for Steph and Damian in their marriage. The rings were then brought forward, having been symbolically warmed by their wishes.
Rings were exchanged and certificates signed, all the while this happy couple laughed, kissed and smiled.
The ceremony concluded with a toast to the newlyweds, a huge cheer ...
yet another kiss...
.... and you guessed it!
Steph and Damian, I loved that every aspect of your ceremony reflected your relaxed style and bright personalities. Your good humour and laughter is infectious, as is your positive outlook on life. Lucky am I to have enjoyed your ever-cheerful company. Keep laughing!
Celebrant: Sally Hughes
Photography: Warrenphotography
Venue: The Harbour Room
Musicians: The White Tree
Steph's gown: Mariana Hardwick