MEGAN + TODD - Promises Under the Pier

By Sally Hughes, Melbourne Marriage Celebrant

Like so many couples over the past eleven months, Megan and Todd were forced to reimagine their wedding day. More than once. Government-imposed restrictions on guest numbers, an eleven-week-long ban on weddings in greater Melbourne and a Queensland border closure that prevented Megan from travelling to Melbourne, gave this very patient couple no other choice than to reschedule their ceremony.

As disappointing as that must have been, Megan and Todd hardy let on. Every time we spoke, we’d end up laughing at how hopeless their situation was (and then we’d usually chat about wine). I adored their optimism and their ability accept the cards they’d been dealt. They maintained that as long as they were married, on the beach, with their gorgeous sons present, they’d be fine. They decided to prioritise marriage over the party and I couldn’t have admired them more for it.

And so, we met underneath the Seaford Pier on a warm Summer’s morning in January and I presented their full “bells and whistles” ceremony to six people (because even though their guest list had been drastically reduced, their stories were too good not to share!). We all laughed (a lot!), we cheered and we all absolutely loved being “in the moment” in our secluded spot under the pier that morning.

Congratulations gorgeous Megan and Todd and thank you for inviting my elopement ceremony partner-in-crime, photographer Julieanne Perara, and I to spend such a special morning with you. Your wedding plans did change, but looking back on your ceremony, I can’t imagine it playing out any other way.

Celebrant: Sally Hughes // Photographer: Julieanne Perara Photography // Megan’s Dress: Datto Bridal Designs // Todd’s clothes: Trent Nathan (Myer) // Megan’s Make Up: Erin Norman // Megan’s Hair: Olivia Norman // Flowers: Poppin’ Poppies // Jewellery: Michael Hill // Children’s Clothing: City Beach

Love Note…

“Do not look any further if you are wanting the best marriage celebrant in Melbourne! From start to finish, Sally had everything covered and made the whole experience and day absolutely amazing. And to say she is thorough is an understatement. Most catch ups were just a barrel of laughs, so was concerned that maybe we might miss something but quite the opposite. She talked us through everything and even a last minute change was not a problem. And she was only too happy to go and buy a new frock to match our colour theme. We can’t thank Sally enough for making the start of our day absolutely perfect!!”

— Megan

Considering eloping? Take a look at my latest offer: ELOPE WITH US

Wedding Day Regrets

By Sally Hughes, Melbourne Marriage Celebrant

If I had to do it all again, I wouldn’t change a single thing…

Yep, Kylie’s late eighties chart topper sprang to mind the moment I sat down to write this blog. While we know the pop princess wasn’t singing about her wedding day (insert sad face here), it’s something I hope you’ll sing from the rafters after yours.

When your big day is done and dusted and you’re sitting on a beach sipping mojitos and margaritas, reliving your celebration with your significant other, I hope you both agree that every single choice you made was spot on.  I’m pleased to say that this tends to be the case with almost every couple I work with.  Perhaps it’s because I attract easy going couples who trust me to do what I do best and who are open to advice. However, on occasion I run into married folk who tell me that if they had their day again, they might change a thing or two.

And so I thought I’d list the six most common wedding day regrets, as shared with me over the past decade..

1. We regret not hiring a videographer

Hands down, this is the regret I hear most. And for the record, it’s the only thing I would have changed about my wedding day. To be fair, when I walked down the aisle in 2006 social media wasn’t anywhere near as big as it is now. Insta didn’t exist, nor did those wonderful two minute highlight reels. Heck, Photoshop was a very expensive optional extra, so the hideous powerlines that feature in some of our portraits sadly remain. But I digress. My point is, back then we thought photography would be enough and relegated videography to the “if the budget allows” category.

However, if I could go back in time I’d make sure our wedding was filmed so I could show my daughters footage of their mummy walking down the aisle giggling, of their daddy’s voice cracking when we exchanged vows, of our friends singing musical theatre songs during the certificate signing, and of our guests carving up the dance floor before an eight piece swing band.

And so, if you can, compromise on your floral centrepieces, ditch the expensive cuff links, earrings and engraved invitations and hire a videographer. In ten years’ time, you won’t care about the styling as much as you will reliving the words, music and emotion during one of the happiest days of your life.

Chloe + Jake’s emotional exchange of vows at Mon Bijou. Captured by Jerome Cole.

2. We regret not hiring a professional photographer

Just because you’re a chilled-out, easy going couple who want a simple and low-key ceremony (you’re fab!), it doesn’t mean you should neglect having it captured professionally. Even though you both sound like you have your priorities in check, I bet you’ve splashed a reasonable amount of cash on outfits, hair and make up and I guarantee that you’ll be emotionally invested in your day. Whether you’re hosting a 150 person bash or opting for an intimate elopement, you’ll want great photos. So please, don’t ask a friend who dabbles in photography. Hire a pro!

Chloe + Jake at Mon Bijou ceremony. Captured by Jerome Cole. Wow!

When I hear, “We’re thinking of asking our friend to take the photos. He has a pretty good camera…”, I worry. Does your friend (let’s call him Larry) know how to work in poorly-lit venues? Does Larry know how ceremonies play out, and therefore where to quickly position himself during the key moments? Does Larry know not to take those cheesy mood-killing posed photos during the certificate signing, but rather, read the play during the ceremony and know when to photograph you and when to photograph the crowd? And let’s not overlook the possibility that Larry may not want to do it, but is too polite to decline your offer of working for several hours while everyone else is having fun. It’s a big ask. The pressure would be huge for a novice photographer. At least it should be.

3. We regret not having an unplugged ceremony

For the past decade I’ve found that asking guests to put their cameras, phones and other distracting devices away in order to fully participate in the ceremony has been a rapidly growing trend. The motivation is twofold; the experience for all present (the couple and guests alike) and the quality of the photos and footage.

Imagine walking down the aisle and not being able to make eye contact with some of your guests.

Imagine standing at the top of the aisle during the processional and having your view blocked by gran, who’s standing in front of you with a cheap digital camera, attempting to take a sub-standard photo. (I call it “aisle-creep” and it happens all the time!)

Imagine receiving your photos and discovering pictures that would have been amazing but for an arm or a selfie stick in the aisle, or a guest who’s looking at his/her lap, checking how good their iPhone photo looks.

Commit to 30 minutes of true guest interaction and to helping the pros do their best work. Guests can snap away for hours afterwards and hey, you can even pose with them!

All eyes are on Kristina at Stones of the Yarra Valley. Captured by Theodore & Co

No cameras in sight at Kristina + John’s ceremony. Captured by Theodore & Co

4. We regret having our ceremony outside… in Melbourne… in Winter.

This is closely followed by, “We regret having our ceremony outside… in Melbourne… in Summer.”

Doesn’t it sound like a recipe for disaster? OK, I’m being a tad dramatic, but given how reliably interchangeable Melbourne weather is at any time of year, please don’t just “hope for the best” when planning the biggest social event of your lives. If you know the mercury is going to hit 30 degrees, or if the chance of rain rain is high, please hire a marquee. Wishful thinking and half a dozen market umbrellas will not do the trick!

Better still, bite the bullet and move the ceremony indoors! All the hard work you and your celebrant will have dedicated to creating an entertaining and meaningful ceremony can be somewhat wasted when guests are distracted by a constant “Hurry up, I’m melting” or “Hurry up, I’m fuh-reeeeezing” thought. Looking out onto a sea of people with their arms crossed, trying to keep warm, or watching people apologetically walk away from the ceremony space to find shade is disheartening. I may need to cut parts of the ceremony if I feel I’m losing them, which would be a big shame.

Remember, guests will always remember how they felt during your ceremony. No one wants their ceremony to be remembered as “the one that was so cold we almost froze” or “the one where it was so hot, someone fainted”. Aim for a “that’s the best ceremony I’ve ever experienced!” feeling.

When ‘Plan B’ doesn’t cut it. Image by Jason Kaczorowski

5. We regret not thinking enough about our Plan B location.

It’s imperative that you know at the time of booking your ceremony suppliers whether your ceremony location and time could change if you revert to a plan B location.

Whenever I receive an enquiry for a ceremony in a Heritage Listed garden - the Carlton Gardens for example (where marquees are not permitted), i’ll always ask the couple to confirm their alternative ceremony venue and time. If you need to move your 3:00 PM ceremony from a public garden to your indoor reception venue, keep in mind that, no matter how much notice you give, the reception venue manager might not allow you and your guests onsite until they can accomodate you, which is usually from around 5:00 PM.

If you’re marrying outdoors in Melbourne, talk to your celebrant, stylist, musicians and drivers and find out how flexible they can be on your wedding date. Unlike photographers and videographers, who are usually booked for a whole day, they’re usually booked for an agreed time.

6. We regret not having a photo with you.

Look, I do try to jump in during the certificate signing or interrupt your post ceremony snaps, but sometimes the light is fading or the rain is coming and I can sense that the photographer needs to get on with his/her work. If you want a pic with your celebrant (or anyone not staying on after the ceremony), let them and your photographer know that it’s important to you. If it’s important to you, I’ll definitely hover until it happens. Just ask Daniel and Elisha.

Interrupting Daniel + Elisha’s post ceremony portrait session with Briars Atlas at Zonzo Estate.

Remember, wedding day regrets can be avoided when you have an experienced and forward thinking celebrant, a realistic attitude and great suppliers on your team.

If there’s anything you would have done differently on your wedding day, please comment below!

Sally Hughes, Melbourne Celebrant

For more wedding tips take a look at TRENDING - Rose Petal Recessionals

Ten Years a Celebrant!

On this day ten years ago the Attorney General’s Department saw fit to approve my application to become an Authorised Marriage Celebrant. Ten years ago? Geesh! That time has flown!

Since the 27th of August 2009, I’ve hitched almost 600 couples, I’ve helped others renew their vows, I’ve named babies, I’ve seen marriage equality achieved (hallelujah!) and I’ve seen trends such as mason jars, L.O.V.E letters and sand ceremonies come and go. I’ve seen the rise and rise of Tinder hook-ups, Instagram hashtags (and couple name generator apps), floral arches and ceiling installations, festoon lighting, neon signage, unplugged ceremonies, first looks and non-traditional ceremony venues like bars, distilleries, cellar doors and art galleries. I’ve mentored dozens of celebrants and I’ve won a few awards along the way, but most importantly, I’ve forged trusting relationships with many wonderful couples and close friendships with many industry folk.

I have loved working with happy couples and meeting proud and emotional parents. I have loved making people laugh and watching them cry. I have loved solving problems, dressing up, visiting beautiful venues, and observing talented creatives work their magic. I’ve always appreciated having the best seat in the house.

And so, to anyone who has hired me, recommended me, reviewed me, followed my socials, photographed or filmed me, thank you. To those of you who have spent too much time with me in photo booths, chatting on Messenger threads or carving up dance floors at industry events, sorry (not sorry).

And to my wonderfully supportive husband, thanks for holding down the fort on weekends, for always offering to pack and unpack my equipment from the boot and for having wine, vegetarian pasta and a listening ear at the ready when I return home from ceremonies and insist on reliving every moment.

2029 here I come!

Sal x

Images by Warren Photography, Red Butterfly Photography, Jerome Cole, Ben Potter Photography, Margarita Ceko, Blue Robin Photography, Robert Hock, Rick Liston, A Touch of Flash, Briars Atlas, ATEIA Photography, Michael Briggs, The White Tree, Rhys Leslie, Noble Photography, Glen McCulloch, Jonathan Ong, Dijana Risteska, Blumenthal, Sarah Walker, I Got You Babe & Co, Eden Photography, Kristoffer Paulsen, Flash 2 Flash, London Ivy Collective, Marie Luise Weddings, Julieanne Perara.

MADELEINE + DANIEL - Morning Micro

By Sally Hughes, Melbourne Marriage Celebrant

Madeleine and Daniel flew from Brunei to Australia to be married in the morning sunshine at Zonzo Estate in Victoria’s Yarra Valley. They spent time among the vines with their photographer Suzie Potter of London Ivy Collective and then married before a small group of family members and friends.  After their micro ceremony (and a quick costume change) the newlyweds made their way indoors to The Stables, a stunning light-filled space, to enjoy a celebratory lunch. 

Madeleine and Daniel’s low-key celebration was a wonderfully unhurried and intimate one. Further proof that micro weddings can be just as beautiful, meaningful and enjoyable as the large-scale variety.

Related Blog: What’s a Micro Ceremony?

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Celebrant: Sally Hughes for Signed and Sealed // Photography: Suzie Potter of London Ivy Collective // Ceremony Venue: Zonzo Estate // Flowers: Sugar Bee Flowers // Madeleine’s Dress: White Runway // Daniel’s Suit: Zara Man

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TRENDING - Rose Petal Recessionals

By Sally Hughes, Melbourne Marriage Celebrant

Rose petals are making a comeback, folks! And it’s thanks to pictures like these that couples are opting to bring back the tradition.

The tradition of showering newlyweds with small objects dates back centuries. It’s widely believed that rice and grains, precursors to petals, were thrown as a way of symbolising rain; a sign of prosperity, fertility and good fortune (i’ll be sure to mention that to couples when downpours are imminent!). Coloured paper confetti then became all the rage until dresses became stained and venue operators became tired of cleaning it up. Petals came next, but like all trends, their popularity declined somewhat. Again, venue operators played a role here because, like paper confetti, coloured petals stain carpets and tiles too. However I have noticed that some venue operators will now allow white or freeze dried petals.

Anyhow, enough of the history lesson. Petals have made a comeback! When thrown well, they look great in photos and they inject a little fun into the recessional. EVERY couple laughs while their friends take aim - and these photos prove my point.

A few tips for rose petal recessionals:

1. Have your Celebrant instruct guests to throw petals above you, not at you. While it is rather funny watching a couple cop a face full of blooms, it won’t be the most pleasurable experience for them. And the photography and footage will suffer.

2. Ditch petal cones. Guests don’t want to balance a cone of petals on their laps during the ceremony. And those in the standing section should be hands-free so they can applaud your extremely witty and hilarious Celebrant and wipe their tears during a sentimental exchange of vows. A bowl or basket of petals is all you’ll need.

3. Distribute petals during the signing of the certificates. No one wants to hold a handful of petals for more than a few minutes. As per point 2, guests should be hands-free during the ceremony, so just ask a friend to walk up and down the aisle to distribute during the signing.

4. If petals aren’t your thing, consider glitter cannons, sparklers (provided fire bans aren’t in place), pom poms, leaves or bubbles.

JESS + SIMON / Jerome Cole Photography / The Prince Deck / Lulu Bird

MEL + ANTON / Corey Wright Photography / Immerse / Sugar Bee Flowers

AMY + PHIL / Gerard Assi Photography / The Riverstone Estate / Edward & I

ZOE + DAN / Katie Harmsworth Photography / Coombe Yarra Valley / Tori Allen Events

AMANDA + MATT / Lost In Love Photography / Zonzo Estate / Sugar Bee Flowers

FIONA + PAUL / Stewart Leishman Photography / Immerse / Debbie O’Neill Flowers

TAYLA + TODD / Sigrid Petersen / Coombe Yarra Valley / Sugar Bee Flowers

AMI + MATT / Michael Briggs Photography / Zonzo Estate, Yarra Glen / Sugar Bee Flowers

AMELIA + WILL / Blossom Daisy Creative / The George Ballroom / Floretta By Grace

ANNALIECE + ALEKS / Michael Lean Photography / Dayne Robinson

CAROLYNE + MARTY / Robert Hock Photography / Coombe Yarra Valley / Sugar Bee Flowers

EMILY + CAM / Warren Photography / Stones of the Yarra Valley / Red Earth Flowers

JEN + JARMON / Shot From The Heart / Lyrebird Falls / Sassafras Flower Design

MELISSA + JED / Aria Photography / Zonzo Estate / Silver Suede Flowers

BETH + JUSTIN / Dijana Risteska Photography / Zonzo Estate / Sugar Bee Flowers

LIV + NATHAN / Beck Rocchi Photography / Coombe Yarra Valley / Sugar Bee Flowers

KATE + STEVE / Katie Harmsworth Photography / Stones of the Yarra Valley / Sugar Bee Flowers

ANIKA + ANDY / Fifteen Photography / Yering Station / Sugar Bee Flowers

EMILY + HAYDEN / PiXray Photography / Quat Quatta / Victoria Whitelaw Flowers

What's a Micro Wedding?

By Sally Hughes, Melbourne Marriage Celebrant

‘I’m sorry, but what do you mean by micro wedding? Is that a new thing?”

Put simply, yes! (well the term is, anyway). And you’re not the only person to wonder what on earth they’re all about.

The micro movement has been around for a few years, however only in the past twelve months have I noticed a significant growth in its popularity. So what’s it all about? Essentially, a micro wedding is a wedding that has all the big ticket items of a regular wedding, but on a smaller scale. So, yes, there’s a ceremony and a reception that follows, there’s a fancy wedding dress and/or suit, rings, flowers, music, photography and videography. The main difference is that the guest list is significantly smaller than what we’ve come to expect from a regular-sized wedding (think 20 not 120).

And the motivation? There are a few, however I believe the major motivator is to reduce costs. With only 20 odd guests to feed and hydrate, only 20 ceremony chairs to hire (or not) and a photographer whose presence is only required for a few hours, there’s usually a significant saving to be made (and perhaps a home deposit left untouched).

Another reason to go micro is to provide an arguably better experience for all involved. The overall spend might be the same as a large scale wedding, however the experience might be more, shall we say, discerning. With fewer guests, a couple could book out a private estate for a weekend, hire a celebrity chef, special entertainment, and/or provide accommodation for all. Alternatively, they might book a private dining room at a fine dining restaurant like Vue de monde (take a look at Brian and Nicholas’ micro below).

And then there’s the vibe of it all. When you can eyeball every single guest at your ceremony, when you can hear every giggle, every sniffle and every comment that is made, the experience is quite different. I find that micro ceremonies are a little shorter than those I present at large scale weddings, but they’re just as meaningful, just as interactive (perhaps even more so) and just as enjoyable. Couples feel every bit the Bride and/or Groom, regardless of the number of people gathered around them.

So, if you feel inclined to jump aboard the micro wedding train, get in touch! I can point you in the direction of some great venues and talented industry folk who love a small scale celebration as much as I.

Oh, and a quick tip! If you host your micro between Monday and Thursday, minimum spends are lower and venue availability will be far greater.

Love Note…

“Sally was brilliant! From our first meeting she made us feel comfortable despite the nerves. She guided us from start to finish, and the ceremony was perfect. It really felt like Sally understood who we are and what we wanted. It was a pleasure to have her as our celebrant.”

Brian + Nicholas

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Celebrant: Sally Hughes for Signed & Sealed // Photographer: Julieanne Perara Photography // Venue: Vue de monde // Flowers: Flowers Vasette

CHRISTINA + WARREN - Seaside Elopement

By Sally Hughes, Melbourne Marriage Celebrant

elope

ɪˈləʊp/

run away secretly in order to get married.

Christina and Warren were married before four friends on St Kilda Pier in what was one of the happiest and most heartfelt ceremonies I've conducted.  While most of the world was busy going about their working day, time seemed to stand still for Christina and Warren.  They looked into one another's eyes and reflected on the decisions that had led them to each other. They spoke of their love and admiration for each other and of their gratitude for the relationship they had cultivated.  They laughed, they cried, they grinned as their friends gave impromptu speeches and then, we all drank spicy margaritas!

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Celebrant: Sally Hughes for Signed And Sealed

Photography: Marie-Luise Weddings

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Looking for further wedding inspiration? Take a look at What’s a Micro Wedding?

RENATA + NICK - A Wedding of Distinction

By Sally Hughes, Melbourne Marriage Celebrant

Meet Renata, a Director at Weddings of Distinction, a premiere wedding and special events company based in Melbourne.  I’ve seen Renata style and manage some epic events, so I knew that when the time came for her to marry her Nick, their celebration would be beautifully styled and managed with the precision I have come to expect from WoD. I knew Renata and Nick would bring together a very large team of Melbourne’s most sought after suppliers too, industry professionals I very much admire.

And so you can image how thrilled I was when Renata and Nick asked me to conduct their marriage ceremony at The Glasshouse in Melbourne. 

Not surprisingly, Renata and Nick decided to do things a little differently to the norm.  They wanted the transition between ceremony and reception to be a seamless one and so decided that the spaces would be one in the same.  They envisaged a formal and traditional ceremony, one that would incorporate humour, theatricality and elements of their Russian and Greek heritage.  I couldn't wait to get started.

While guests enjoyed pre ceremony cocktails and canapes, Renata and Nick met for "first look" photos at the stylish Crown Towers.   

They then made their way to The Glasshouse together and waited in their bridal suite for their guests to enter the room.  When the doors opened, allowing family and friends to be seated at their tables, I lost count of the number of "oohs and aahs" I heard.  The room looked nothing short of spectacular.

Before 200 guests, all seated in the round, Renata and Nick stood under a magnificent suspended floral chuppah (which, to the delight of the crowd, slowly descended from the ceiling as Renata entered the room) to celebrate a relationship that came about as a result of a Groupon voucher, a rather persistent matchmaker and a touch of Facebook stalking.

Not withstanding the jaw-droppingly beautiful floral arrangements, the many crystal chandeliers and candles, the perfectly placed table settings in gold and crystal, the cigar and cognac station, the champagne and dessert bar, the chilled vodka carts, the fantastic live music, the exceptional sound and lighting design, the motorised ceiling installation and the highly courteous and impeccably dressed staff, it was the love between two people and the strong sense of celebration in the room that impressed me most that evening.

Renata and Nick, thank you for inviting me to play a role in your big, fat, theatrical, romantic, joyful, loud and utterly beautiful Russian / Greek wedding. I wish we could do it all again (says the person who didn't spend countless days and nights planning it!).

Celebrant: Sally Hughes

Photography: Warrenphotography

Videography:  C2 Films

Venue Styling: Weddings of Distinction, Lulu Bird

Venue: The Glasshouse / The Big Group Melbourne

Decor: Weddings of Distinction, Place Settings, Complete Function Hire, Harry The Hirer, Dann Event Hire

Sound & Lighting - Prolight and Sound

Ceremony & Reception Music: Rumours Band

Cars: Always Classic Cars

Renata's Gown:  Leah Da Gloria

Renata's Make Up: Beauty By Julie

Renata's Hair: Frankie Salon

Nick's Suit: Hugo Boss

NAT + PETE - A Rooftop Elopement

By Sally Hughes, Melbourne Marriage Celebrant

I have long admired Nat’s work as a stylist. On countless occasions I’ve seen her transform ceremony venues into jaw-droppingly beautiful spaces. When I met her many years ago, I was equally as impressed by her warmth and humility. When Nat and Pete asked me if I would conduct their elopement ceremony, I felt so very honoured.

Nat and Pete were married on a warm Autumn afternoon on a rooftop terrace in Sandringham.  Nat entered the rooftop with her mother to Evermore's I'll Never Let You Go  wearing a sheer lace gown she designed and made herself. She even assembled her own bouquet of white O'Hara roses.  She's seriously clever!

With the brightest of blue skies above them, Nat and Pete stood before their parents, grandparents and siblings to celebrate a relationship that began on the slopes of Mount Baw Baw some fifteen years prior. 

Nat and Pete’s ceremony unfolded in such a relaxed way.   Their small gathering of guests (including their good friends John from Warrenphotography and Marcus from C2 Films) involved themselves throughout - laughing, crying and commenting without reservation. Their love for Nat and Pete, their unrestrained displays of emotion and the strong sense of celebration is something I shall always remember.

"My thoughts go out to you my immortal beloved, I can live only wholly with you or not at all. Be calm my life, my all. Only by calm consideration of our existence can we achieve our purpose to live together.  Oh continue to love me, never misjudge the most faithful heart of your beloved.   

Ever thine. 

Ever mine. 

Ever ours.”

(Ludwig van Beethoven)

Congratulations Nat and Pete and thank you for inviting me to share in the beauty and excitement of your intimate celebration.  I sincerely loved every moment spent with Team Jordan!

Celebrant: Sally Hughes

Photography: Warrenphotography

Videography:  C2 Films

Venue styling: The Bride - Natalie Jordan

Nat's gown:  The Bride - Natalie Jordan

Nat's hair: Dani North Wedding Hair

Pete's suit: Peter Jackson

OLIVIA + NATHAN - Kisses in the Rain

By Sally Hughes, Melbourne Marriage Celebrant

Liv and Nath shared their very first kiss in the rain.  Six years later, in the Italian Garden at Coombe Yarra Valley, history repeated itself (fortunately to a far lesser degree) as they shared their first kiss as Mr and Mrs.  

When Liv arrived at the beautiful Yarra Valley estate and stepped outside her black Mercedes wearing a Pallas Couture gown, I wasn't the only person to gasp.  She looked absolutely breathtaking.  She beamed as she stood with her bridesmaids, dressed in classic white, excited to be marrying the man she had known for over a decade.

Liv, her proud father Vincent and six attendants entered the Italian Garden to Little Buster Brown's evocative rendition of Angels by XX.  Vincent warmly embraced his beautiful daughter and future son-in-law before Liv and Nath together walked toward the magnificent green hedge.  They stood before a white screen (made by the Father of the Groom), artfully decorated with the classic combination of white and green flowers and foliage by Sugar Bee Flowers.

And so began Liv and Nath's romantic, sentimental and joyous marriage ceremony. It was a ceremony that honoured family and friendships and the very deep love and respect they have for one another. We sighed and laughed interchangeably as I told the story of a friendship that began in their teenage years, the bond that was strengthened during university study dates and the romantic relationship that they were destined to realise.  The story of Nath's well planned Royal Botanic Gardens proposal was particularly well received.  It was a proposal which included both a surprise performance by an acoustic duo the moment Liv said, "Yes", and photographer friends hiding in bushes.... until an oh-so-excited Nath outed them!

Midway through Liv and Nath's ceremony distant rumblings of thunder sounded and spectacular bolts of lightning pierced through the clouds.  Fortunately, we only experienced a few drops of rain so decided to continue as planned.  Liv and Nath exchanged vows and rings; rings that were contained in a wooden box carved by Nath's Nunnu, blessed by immediate family and brought forward by a rather charismatic Best Man!  And then, to a tremendous cheer, Nath and Liv were declared to be husband and wife.

Given the likelihood of rain, we decided to move the marriage certificate signing to a sheltered area after the ceremony.  While guests happily made their way to the cellar door for canapes and refreshments, the bridal party, parents and grandparents gathered under the canopy of tall trees to witness Liv and Nath's final step toward newlywed status.

Liv and Nath, the relationship you have is so very special. Your kindness towards one another and the importance you place upon family is clear to all.  It was an honour to share your day with you. Congratulations Mr & Mrs L. 

Celebrant: Sally Hughes

Photography: Beck Rocchi Photography

Venue: Coombe Yarra Valley

Flowers: Sugar Bee Flowers

Chairs: Feel Good Events

Screen: David, Father of The Groom (Contact me if you'd to hire it.  I'll connect you!)

Musicians:  Little Buster Brown

Olivia's gown:  Pallas Couture

Nathan's suit: Herringbone

SARAH + JARRYD - An Elegant Garden Wedding

By Sally Hughes, Melbourne Marriage Celebrant

I remember this wedding as though it were yesterday.  The setting for Sarah and Jarryd’s black tie garden ceremony was perfect.  We were blessed with sunshine, blue skies and lush green lawn as far as the eye could see at the elegant Rippon Lea Estate.

As Jarryd took his place before a white metal arbour adorned with cascading white roses, orchids and lilies, 160 guests turned to observe Sarah’s four bridesmaids, all dressed in white, enter the private garden to ‘Higher Love’. Jarryd greeted each attendant, before taking his place with his four groomsmen, awaiting Sarah’s entrance.  

And then, on the arm of her proud father, Sarah appeared.  Dressed in a custom One Day Bridal gown designed by the incredibly talented KYHA, she looked breathtakingly beautiful.  Her dress softly billowed about her as she walked the long grass aisle toward Jarryd.   After her father raised her veil and gave her a kiss, Sarah then took Jarryd's arm and together they took their places with their bridal party of eight.

Hand in hand, the beaming bride and groom stood as I told the story of their first meeting at the Inverloch Esplanade Hotel on New Year’s Eve, their intimate Sunday afternoon engagement and the many qualities they’ve come to admire in each other.  Sarah and Jarryd then exchanged self-penned vows.  Observing Jarryd encourage Sarah as tears welled in her eyes was a touching moment. Jarryd’s Best Man and Hawthorn teammate Jordan presented the rings and then, to a very loud cheer, Jarryd and Sarah were declared to be husband and wife.

Sarah and Jarryd, thank you for inviting me to work with you to create your romantic and laughter-filled ceremony. I thoroughly enjoyed working with a couple as kind, easy going and humble as you. Congratulations Mr and Mrs Roughy!

Celebrant: Sally Hughes

Images: Blumenthal Photography

Venue: Rippon Lea Estate and Weddings by Peter Rowland

Styling: Tori Allen Events and Dann Event Hire

Sarah's gown:  One Day Bridal

Jarryd’s suit: Sam & Ko

Music: The White Tree

Outdoor Wedding Venues - Private Places

By Sally Hughes, Melbourne Marriage Celebrant

Marrying outdoors in Melbourne?  There are so many breathtakingly beautiful gardens, vineyards and fields to choose from.  Earlier this year I shared my favourite Outdoor Wedding Venues - Public Spaces. Here are my favourite privately-owned outdoor spaces in Melbourne (and surrounds).

Yarra Valley

 Zonzo Estate, Yarra Glen

Alowyn Gardens, Yarra Glen

Coombe Yarra Valley, Coldstream

Balgownie Estate, Yarra Glen

The Farm Yarra Valley, Warrandyte South

Yering Station, Yarra Glen

Image: Kate Robinson Photography

Stones of the Yarra Valley, Coldstream

Chateau Yering, Yarra Glen

Immerse, Dixons Creek

Image: Julieanne Perara Photography

RACV Country Club Healesville

Mandala Wines, Dixons Creek

Image: Simply Digital Photography

Riverstone Estate, Coldstream

Dandenong Ranges

Log Cabin Ranch, Monbulk

Lyrebird Falls, Kallista

City & Inner Suburbs

Como Historic House and Garden, South Yarra

Abbotsford Convent

Park Hyatt Melbourne - Trilogy Garden

North

Overnewton Castle, Keilor

Meadowbank Receptions, Campbellfield

North West

Flemington Racecourse 

Image: Peter Rowland

East

Bramleigh Estate, Warrandyte

The Gables, East Malvern

Leonda By The Yarra, Hawthorn

West

Goonawarra Winery, Sunbury

Emu Bottom Homestead, Sunbury

Image: Lizzy C Photography

South East & Bayside

Rippon Lea House & Garden, Elsternwick

Image: Peter Rowland

Yarra Yarra Golf Club, Bentleigh East

Luna Park, St Kilda

 Riva St Kilda

Sandringham Yacht Club

Penninsula

The Garden Vineyard, Moorooduc

Morning Star Estate, Mount Eliza

Summerfields Estate, Bittern

Lindenderry at Red Hill

Daylesford

Sault Restaurant Daylesford

Lake House Daylesford

And what's the advantage of marrying at a private venue, as opposed to a public space?  You'll most often be able to have your reception onsite (guests love not having to drive to two venues) and you'll most likely able to head indoors with minimal fuss should the weather become inclement.  It's also likely that there will be venue staff on hand to assist, seating, restrooms and considerably better (and free) car parking options for guests.

With the exception of those credited to photographers, the images used in this post have been obtained from official venue web pages.  

Sally Hughes - Melbourne Celebrant