Perth couple, Karamea and Chris, brought a contingent of 70 guests with them to celebrate their nuptials in Karamea’s hometown of Noosa by the beach. Karamea’s grandmother and best friend were also precious cargo, travelling from New Zealand to be with the happy couple on their Noosa wedding day.
Planning a destination wedding, Karamea says her best decision was to hire a wedding planner from First Class Functions to both help arrange everything pre-wedding, and also coordinate a smooth sailing event on the day.
Their classic beach styled wedding with soft apricot colour theme was captured by photographer, Katja Anton AKA Weddings.
“Chris had his four best friends as groomsmen all of whom travelled from Perth, one detouring on his way back from Europe. My sister was my Maid of Honour and my three dearest friends were my bridesmaids. My two younger sisters, and Chris’s (now my) niece were junior bridesmaids.
“My younger brother who studies at The Queensland Academy of Music played with two of his peers whilst our guests congregated at the ceremony and again whilst I walked down the aisle.”
“Chris and I sneakily met the morning of the wedding at 6am and ventured to Hidden Grove where we exchanged personal intimate vows prior to the day commencing. It was romantic and memorable.”
“As I sat in the hairdresser, I received texts throughout the day asking if the wedding would still take place outdoors as it was gloomy and overcast. Thankfully the nearer the ceremony came, the finer the weather became. It was sunshine and smiles all round.”
“My advice to other brides is to stay calm on the day and soak up every moment! The day literally goes by in the blink of an eye, so make sure you and your husband make the most of it and focus on having fun with each other and your friends and family. And… hire a wedding planner, they are worth their weight in gold! Especially for a destination wedding, it was great having an external party there on the day to ensure things ran according to plan and freeing up family members, ensuring they didn’t need to stress and run around, allowing them to relax and enjoy the day.”
“Our priorities were the comfort and enjoyment of our guests, quality of food and service at the reception and a relaxed personable celebrant.”
Wedding Secrets
Biggest splurge: Holding the reception at Berardo’s, as we weren’t willing to compromise on service, food and beverage quality.
Best bargain: Our wedding cake, it was delicious and I feel under-priced for the amazing quality!
Bridal gown: Carla Zampatti
Accessories: Solitaire diamond necklace and matching earrings
Shoes: Alan Pinkus, kitten heel in white silver shimmer
Bridesmaid dresses: Purchased overseas
Groom’s suit and shoes: Ben Sherman/ Custom Made
Groomsmens’ suits and shoes: Ben Sherman/ Own shoes
Rings: Custom Made by Thomas Meihofer
DIY: Wedding favours
Number of guests: 70
Wedding budget: $35,000
Who paid: The couple, and their parents chipped in.
A-List Vendors
Photographer: Katja Anton AKA Weddings
Decorators and Wedding Coordination: First Class Functions
Wedding Night Accommodation: Sheraton Noosa Resort & Spa
Videographer: Wildbunch Weddings / Florist: The Flower Room / Caterer: Berardo’s Restaurant & Bar / Cake: Richies Bakery / Transport: Noosa Ferry / Makeup Artist: Brides of Noosa / Hair Stylist: Sunshine Images / Stationery Supplier: Bevin Design / Gift registry: Wishing Well for Honeymoon / Celebrant: Jay Flood
