By Sally Hughes, Melbourne Marriage Celebrant

One year ago today I presented one of the most lively and interactive wedding ceremonies I’ve ever known. This was due not only to the fact that George and Jack are hilariously quick witted and clearly well-loved by many, but because they are actors. And many of their guests were too.

When dozens of actors, dancers, musos and other creative types enter a ceremony space, the energy level rises dramatically. Without fail. At George and Jack's ceremony, it went through the roof! I recall laughing as I tried to hush the crowd in readiness for George’s entrance. I knew there was no way I’d be able to temper the excitement in the room. Instead, I’d embrace the sense of celebration and encourage guests to "play along".

George and Jack were married at Lot Four Studio in Richmond. Guests arrived to discover old-fashioneds, Pimms and martinis being served from the coolest of vintage caravans and a studio space decorated with festoon lighting and shiny confetti wall decals (and if you scroll to the end of this blog you'll see my favourite decal). Everything shouted, "Be yourselves and have fun!"

The cheer George received as she walked toward Jack and the minor delays that occurred in getting her to the end of the aisle (her unashamedly excited father couldn’t resist shaking hands with guests) made for the happiest of beginnings.

I loved telling the story of George and Jack’s post-show meeting at the Portland Hotel, Jack’s earnest attempts to woo George, their Don Don’s first date, their love of board games, poker and road trips and George’s Scrabble-inspired proposal. With every story (or toot from a passing train) came either a roar of laughter, a light-hearted heckle or a cheer. Usually all three.

George and Jack, one year on and I still remember your ceremony vividly. The combination of your playful styling, your “colourful cocktail” dress code, your talented friends Ben Abraham and Shannon McDonough's performance of 'I Belong To You’, your lively crowd and your happy and easy-going personalities made for an unforgettable ceremony. Oh, and your post ceremony 'Horns of Leroy’ lane way procession was fabulous too!

Happy anniversary George and Jack. I hope your first year of marriage has been as laughter-filled as the day you danced and said "I do" on the lot. xx

Celebrant: Sally Hughes

Images: Warrenphotography

George's dress: Remake of a vintage dress by Lucy Slater at Era Vintage Bride.

Musicians: Ben Abraham & Shannon McDonough

Styling: By George, the bride herself.