celebrant Archives | The Bride's Tree

Meet Adam Johnson | A-list Vendor Profile

Sally Townsend — Sun, 27 Dec 2020 19:00:17 +0000

When I first met Adam Johnson, I immediately knew this man is someone pretty special. Instantly warm and friendly, he’s the kind of guy you smile around, because you just can’t help it.

I asked Adam to answer some questions for this here A-list Vendor profile, knowing I wanted you all to meet him, too. However, I was unprepared for what I was about to learn.

From Adam’s favourite way to spend his day – starting with letting the chooks out at 5am and ending with wine time with his wife, who he routinely refers to as “Beautiful Liz” (awww!) to his experience in the Australian wine industry hosting events and VIPs, this guy is even more impressive than I realised! Yet – and this is key – so very down-to-earth and humble.

If this isn’t enough to hook you, wait till you read about his Code of Ethics that went viral, which I’m about to hit print on and post to my son’s wall.

It’s time to meet Adam Johnson, celebrant and business owner from Marry Me Adam.

Hey Adam! Is your business a one-man-show or a team?

As a Celebrant, I’m a one-man-show to a large degree; or the perception is anyway… It’s myself and the couple discussing the possibilities, discovering new ideas and uncovering their own potential and unique characteristics, which is what I want to shine! But in the bigger picture, it is a team effort; and the team constantly changes.

These days my team is global; and it consists of the couples friends and family, where ever they are around the world. We come together on the day to celebrate the wedding. But beforehand, they are given some very specific details that needs to be executed seamlessly, as they are broadcasted live from multiple platforms to become part of the day.

The outcome is an elevated rush of raw emotion as people come to understand that wherever they believe they might be at the time; they are with us. They are part of the team.

What makes how you do the job so unique?

It would be the mixture of ‘ole school traditions and thinking ahead, whilst embracing the modern technology and utilising it to throughly enhance the Ceremony.

During Covid, whilst wedding numbers were significantly reduced, I designed a concept to allow loved ones to not only witness; but participate. This has since evolved into the use of a bank of 43” flatscreen televisions, running multiple devices, utilising FaceTime, Zoom and live streaming; to allow hundreds of friend and family to take part.

The gifts that are sent globally (well before the ceremony) play a large roll at the start of the ceremony. For they not only provide the visual connection to the couple, but also tap into some of the other senses; to set an overwhelmingly inclusive feeling.

Prior to working in the wedding industry, what did you do and how did it prepare you for being a wedding celebrant?

I started in the wine industry when I was 15 at a Cellar Door in a little town called Mudgee in NSW. Back then, I was entertaining groups as they came to visit and the priority was to ensure they fell in love the place. I have been entrenched within this industry for 30+ years and have first hand information about all aspects of the Australian Wine Industry.

From there, I have travelled around the country to host and entertain all kinds of groups and people; including 160,000 people at Beef Australia, working along side of Chefs such as Curtis Stone, Iron Chef Japan entertaining Governor Generals, and even hosting for our own Prime Minister.

Over time, this builds an elevated level of self confidence, which I’d like to believe is teamed up with some form of professionalism to deliver amazing outcomes; even in the most challenging circumstances.

What do your happy clients always say after having worked with you?

The humbling bit…

The vast majority of those I marry become good friends. I watch their family’s grow, support them in times of need, celebrate their successes and even represent their families again when its time to say goodbye to a loved one.

But every year, year after year; on the 3rd of July, so many of them come to say “Happy Birthday Adam”! I like to think they say this, because I got it just so right for them; and they are still thankful. I think that’s pretty cool actually. Way cool!

Take me through your process of your on-the-day job.

I think a Celebrant and a Chef have very similar rolls, in that it’s all about the preparation. Prep, prep and more prep. The gifts have been sent, equipment at its best, you already know ‘who is who in the zoo’, plans and strategies are in place, Plan B and C have been considered, legals complete, Zoom instructions clear, clothing matched to the backdrop (so I blend in; rather than stand out) and contact made with key people. Then it’s show time!

You have a completely free day to hang out on the Sunshine Coast. Get out about! Where are you going, what are you doing and who are you with?

Generally speaking, this is Sunday, and it starts once I let the chooks out, around 5:00am, then it’s off to the markets to pick up ingredients for breakfast with the family.

Following that, it’s time for Sir Reginald Wrinklebottom (the rescue pooch) to head down to the beach for a swim, before heading off for family lunch at anyone of the Coasts eateries. It’s great family time, without devices and just kicking back; enjoying each other’s company.

The afternoon is spent in the vege patch; cleaning, picking and chasing the chooks out and then my wife, Beautiful Liz, and I sit on the back deck with a glass of wine and watch the sunset. That’s what I care for.

Share something that’s interesting about you, or something a lot of people don’t realise.

To a large extent; I brought myself up. I buried my Father when I was 13 and then my Mother 5 years later. I inherited a farm that I didn’t want nor care for and had to make some pretty big decisions early on.

I didn’t know where I was going to live or what I was going to do. But I wanted better for my girlfriend at the time and our 1 year old daughter. So, I jumped into the car and drove until I exhausted my fuel funds. I ended up in a place called Maroochydore, Sunshine Coast Queensland.

From there I ‘juggled’ a job, sent for my family and now 25 years later Grace (now 24), Jack (19), Oscar (11) and Beautiful Liz (my girlfriend at the time; age not disclosed) feel incredibly blessed.

Somewhat afraid that something similar may happen to my kids one day, I created a document referred to as ‘The Johnson Boys Code of Conduct’ which is a set of standards for them to be guided by; that ended up going around the world.

What’s happening in Sunshine Coast weddings in 2021?

Those considering a Wedding at any number of the Sunshine Coasts iconic venues will feel incredibly blessed. As throughout Covid, these venues took the time to freshen up, renovate and allow these beloved buildings to absolutely shine!

There is fresh paint, new areas and menus designed, and it’s like they are all new again; but have still managed to retained the soul that makes them feel so warm and special.

In regards to predicted trends, it the use of technology to connect the world. And I predict that this will become the new norm. So set yourself in for a day of theatrical brilliance and magic that we never previously comprehended. And that’s kinda cool too I think.

Want to Meet Adam?

I mean, who wouldn’t after reading about this amazing person?! Get in touch today to see if he’s available for your wedding date and discuss all your ceremony ideas.

Images supplied by Adam Johnson.

The post Meet Adam Johnson | A-list Vendor Profile appeared first on The Bride's Tree.

Meet Steven Murray | A-List Vendor Story

Sally Townsend — Thu, 25 Jun 2020 19:30:07 +0000

Steven Murray worked as a wedding photographer in our nation’s capital, Canberra, for 20 years before shifting his focus ever so slightly and becoming a celebrant. He says being a celebrant is one of the most rewarding experiences of his life. Playing such an important role in a couple’s life, surrounded by so much love is something he considers himself lucky to be able to do over and over again.

Couples are drawn to Steven’s relaxed, humorous style, so we wanted to get to know him a little better. Below he shares a few of his favourite things, what it’s like to be a wedding celebrant on the Sunshine Coast…

Tell us a secret, Steven!

Most people only ever see me in a suit and bow tie, but when I am not working I love driving my 1971 Kombi. It is probably a boy thing, but I just love that van. It took 12 months to rebuild it to almost show condition and to add some modern touches, so it is fun to drive and beautiful to look at (well I think so). I have had quite a few VWs over the years, but this one is the best one yet. I am lucky as my partner, Wendy, shares my Kombi love and comes with me to most of the VW shows up here on the Sunshine Coast.

You have a completely free day to hang out on the Sunshine Coast. Get out about! Where are you going, what are you doing and who are you with?

I wish I had moved to the Sunshine Coast sooner as there is just so much to do! Wendy and I love heading down to Moffat Beach for a swim and lunch on the beach, followed by shopping in Mooloolaba. Then if we aren’t too full, on the way home to Reesville, we drop into Maleny Food Co. for our favourite ice cream – Cherry Ripe – Yummmm!

What makes you stand out from the crowd?

There must be a million celebrants on the Sunshine Coast, and that makes it a challenge for couples to choose who is best for them. My point of difference is that I have 20-plus years experience in the wedding industry, both as a wedding photographer and celebrant. So I have been on both sides of the fence, which has allowed me to gain valuable experience of all aspects of the wedding day. I have been involved in weddings of 2 people up to 600, from mountains to churches, beaches to lounge rooms and have seen just about everything that can happen on a wedding day, actually happen! (maybe I should write a book!). My style is very relaxed and easy going, with just the right amount of humour. The biggest point of difference is that I wear a bow tie!

What do your happy clients say about working with you?

My couples always comment on how easy I made the whole process and how much their guests enjoyed their ceremony. In fact the majority of my bookings come from referrals from past couples. It is a shame I can’t give those past couples a discount on their next wedding as a thank you for referring me! Not a good thing to offer!

How do you prepare for a wedding on the day?

I usually have everything ready to go a couple of days before the wedding day, but I still do another check to ensure all the paperwork is correct, the speaker system is fully charged, the weather is okay and I do a final check on Google maps to see if there any any issues with roads on the way. The hardest part is working out what bow tie to wear!

I will ensure I am there at least 30 minutes before the ceremony so I have time to chat with the groom, setup my equipment, coordinate the arrival music and ensure the rings are there (three times the Best Man has left them behind – scary!). I work closely with the wedding coordinator and will seat guests once we know the bride is close by. Finally, I ensure all phones are off or on silent and then the ceremony begins! The best bit!

Photo credits: The Beautiful Collective, T8 Photography, Creative Image Photography

Contact Steven Murray, Sunshine Coast Wedding Celebrant, to find out if he’s available to perform your wedding ceremony!

The post Meet Steven Murray | A-List Vendor Story appeared first on The Bride's Tree.

Beth Stevenson | A-List Vendor Profile

Sally Townsend — Fri, 22 Mar 2019 19:00:07 +0000

What started off as a quirky thing Beth could do for her many friends who were getting married at the time she was working for Flight Centre, became her now thriving full time gig as a Sunshine Coast celebrant in her own business – I Heart Ceremonies. Beth found her experiences in travel and living in Japan with her husband gave her the confidence to put herself out there, meet new people and experience new cultures. She says this, along with her respect for the the thoughts and feelings of those around her, are all essential elements to being a professional, kind and compassionate marriage celebrant.

And I tell you what, I’m totally sneaking in on Beth’s next free day on the Sunshine Coast – it sounds like heaven to me! Read on to learn all about it, and an exciting launch Beth has planned for this month…

Beth, you have a very important job – to say the least – on the wedding day. Take me through your wedding day process as the celebrant.

On the day of the wedding, I try to always try to do a tiny bit of yoga first. It settles me and gives me an opportunity to set an intention and narrow my focus for ceremony ahead. After yoga, I get more into the practical details of what’s required for the day. I double check all your paper work is ready to go (which I always prepare the week prior), give my PA system a quick sound check and then start to get ready with hair, make up and clothes.

I always arrive onsite an hour prior to the ceremony start time. This gives me a chance to set up my PA, check the sound levels and co-ordinate with the vendors onsite. I always meet with the photographer and videographer, and run through the flow of the ceremony, so they know when to expect, and then capture, the most photographic moments.

Each ceremony is different, but normally, the groom or partner would arrive about 30 minutes prior to the ceremony start time, and this is when I chat with him and get a feel for how the morning has been. I offer water (as the groomsmen always offer beer or whiskey), and settle any nerves he may be having. The guests would then start arriving, and whilst they mingle, I would casually discuss any housekeeping items, such a no cameras, timelines, hashtags etc. I always prefer to discuss this in small groups as the guests mingle, rather than blast the rules through my speaker – it’s just more my style.

With about five minutes to go, I gently guide the guests to the seats (if applicable). I then get the groom or partner in position, along with their peeps at the front, being careful to make sure the positioning is even and will look balanced in the photos once the other squad arrive over the other side of the aisle. Once I’ve got the thumbs up from the venue manager or co-ordinator, I cue the music, and off we go!

What’s trending in wedding ceremonies this year?

Elopements, micro weddings and ‘legals only’ ceremonies are huge! There is a definite shift towards smaller celebrations, for sure. But just because they’re smaller, doesn’t mean they’re any less opulent!

What do your clients always say after having worked with you?

My clients are always telling me they love how calm I am, and how relaxed and grounded I make them feel in what would would otherwise be quite a nervous, emotive situation. I put that down to my pre-game yoga sesh!

You have a completely free day to hang out on the Sunshine Coast. Get out about! Where are you going, what are you doing and who are you with?

I am super grateful that my celebrant business gives me flexible working hours, and allows me a lot of time to spend with my friends, my family and my kids. That said, I would actually love to spend the day A L O N E ! I would drive to The Velo Project for breakfast (eggs benny with extra hollandaise, obvs) and a large soy latte.

After that, I’d go for a walk from Mooloolaba to Alexandra Headland and then back, finishing with some time hanging out, gazing out to the ocean, at the lighthouse at the river entrance. I’d then lie on the beach at Mooloolaba Spit, and read for hours, with naps interspersed at various points throughout the morning. Lunch would be fresh sushi, straight off the boats at the fisheries.

I’d head back to the beach for some more reading and napping, then make my way to Zenko for a late afternoon yoga class. After that, it’d be home for a swim, a glass (or two) of pinot gris and a pizza from the place round the corner, then collapse into bed with a grateful heart and a full tummy.

Share something people may not know about you.

I absolutely love tap dancing, I speak Japanese and can cook a damn good curry.

We heard you have an exciting new launch coming very soon! Please, do tell!

Love + Elope is a team of premium wedding professionals offering styled elopement packages and luxury intimate weddings from Noosa to Maleny. Launching in March 2019, we will be offering couples unique and elegantly styled spaces within which to begin their marriage, along with designer florals, an uber-creative photo and video team, and sumptuous grazing platters and drinks packages to suit any budget or taste. Register your interest now, and let’s create something beautiful together.

Images by Janneke Storm + Luke Middlemiss

The post Beth Stevenson | A-List Vendor Profile appeared first on The Bride's Tree.

Top 10 Sunshine Coast Celebrants

Sally Townsend — Thu, 21 Mar 2019 06:31:41 +0000

It’s the most important job of the day, so you want to make sure you’ve picked the right person to be at the helm of your wedding ceremony. Great news – any one of these wonderful Sunshine Coast celebrants below will usher you into wedded life with finesse.

These are the people who know all the legal ins and outs of getting married, and with celebrancy being highly regulated, ensuring you’re hooked up with a consummate professional is paramount. The celebrants below are the top 10 we recommend here on the Sunshine Coast.

So in no particular order, please take a peek at your shortlist! Click straight through to their Instagram pages to learn more about each one and see who would be a good fit for you!

Philippa Holness

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Your Celebrant is likely your first port of call for ‘all things wedding’ questions. These are a selection of those I’m most frequently asked. Link in bio ❤️❤️ KEELEIGH + SAM signing the all important paperwork @whiteivylounge captured here by @mallorysparklesphoto . . . . #weddingceremony #sunshinecoastwedding #noosaweddings #weddingcelebrant #noosabride #sunshinecoastbride #bridetribe #marriagecelebrant #destinationwedding #weddinginspiration #elopementsunshinecoast #elopement #elope #elopetonoosa #liveauthentic #weddingplanning2020 #weddingstyle #thebridestree #trueelopement #tinywedding #elopeaustralia #realwedding #weddingcelebrantnoosa #weddingcelebrantsunshinecoast #wereengaged #beachweddingaustralia #engaged #weddingplanning #itsofficial #weregettingmarried

A post shared by Philippa Holness ♥️ Celebrant (@noosaweddinglove) on Feb 24, 2019 at 12:38am PST

Suzanne Riley

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Kat and Duncan on board @setsailcruises so happy xx happy anniversary what beautiful memories xxxxx @lifeandlovephotographybyleeb @oldskoolkombis @katbalaz ❤️ #lovekindaday #lovemooloolaba #mooloolaba @mooloolababeach @mooloolaba_chamber_4557 @visitmooloolaba @visitsunshinecoast #elopemooloolaba #auntpegs ???❤️ #suzannecelebrant #celebrantsuzanne

A post shared by SUZANNE RILEY?QLD (@suzannecelebrant) on Feb 16, 2019 at 12:20am PST

Big Love Weddings (Jo)

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It wasn’t ALL lol’s during Carolin & Mark’s ceremony, but there certainly were lots. . And they were expertly caught by the ever talented @bonniejenkins . . Florals @heavenlyblooms Styling @bohosisters

A post shared by Brisbane Marriage Celebrant (@bigloveweddings) on Jan 30, 2019 at 4:59pm PST

Kath Tilly

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Expo ready at @scbridalexpo

A post shared by Noosa Wedding Celebrant (@kathtilly_celebrant) on Jan 12, 2019 at 6:38pm PST

Coastal Weddings (Fiona)

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I love my couples to be connected for the ceremony – not only does it deliver better photos, but when you’re packing bricks in front of your closest people, you’ve got your closest person keeping you grounded.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ .⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ .⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Sent via @planoly #planoly Photographer: @translucent_photography⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Videographer: @topchoisproductions⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Publication: @becomingone.co ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Venue: @montvillecountrycabins⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Concept/Stationary/Co-Styling: @studiobcouture⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Co-Stylist & Floral Design: @peridot.pretty⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Furniture & Decor: @huskandvine⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Celebrant: @coastalweddings_celebrant⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Cake Artist: @wildchildcakes⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Bridal Couture: @lunawillowbridal⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Hair & Makeup: @emiliamariamakeup⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Suit: @wilvalor / @wil_valor_groom⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Horses: @your_mane_event⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Luna the Barn Owl: @raptor_vision⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Couple: @keiarnakerr & @_steviemac_official⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ .⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ .⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ .⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ #flowers #weddingstyle #wedding #weddingflowers #bride #groom #celebrant #weddingcelebrant #noosawedding #noosacelebrant #coastalweddings #justmarried #marriagecelebrant #ido #isaidyes #engaged #engagement #marriage #love #elopement #ceremony #weddingceremony

A post shared by Fiona Duce: Marriage Celebrant (@coastalweddings_celebrant) on Mar 10, 2019 at 3:24pm PDT

Toni Collett

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My beautiful couple at the amazing Flaxton Gardens.. image by the lovely Shellbells Photography and gorgeous flowers by the talented Poppy Lane Flowers By Design.. 10th Aniversary Celebrations soon for Flaxton Gardens (check their page)..Get your entry in to Win a $10,000 wedding.. would to have you in the next image.. ?? #weddingsunshinecoast #gettingmarried #sunshinecoastcelebrant #gettingmarried #elope #celebrantsunhinecoast #gettingmarriedonsunshinecoast #highlycommened #marriedbytoni #love #marriage #isaidyes #bride #groom #thebridestree #abiaaustralia #queenslandweddings #sunshinecoastweddings #loveyourqueenslandwedding #justmarried #itstartedwithakiss #loveisreal #beachweddingbliss #tonicollettweddings #yourqueenslandwedding #loverslikeusweddingprofessionals #loveyourqueenslandwedding @flaxtongardens @poppylaneflowersbydesign @shellsbellsphotography @yourqueenslandwedding @loverslikeus @thebridestree

A post shared by Toni Collett (@celebranttonicollett) on Nov 24, 2018 at 12:23am PST

Ceremonies to a Tee (Belinda)

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I love it when beautiful couple moments like these are captured forever on film. Thanks to the dream team at #littlelovebugphotography #sunshinecoastcelebrant #sunshinecoastwedding #weddingcelebrant #yandinastationwedding #yandinastation #foreverlove

A post shared by Belinda Tee (@ceremonies_to_a_tee) on Dec 30, 2018 at 12:33am PST

I Heart Ceremonies (Beth)

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V I B E S ? Smiles all round for B + L late last year, married under the massive Moreton Bay Fig at @yandinastation . . . . Photographer @jannekestorm Venue @yandinastation #iheartceremonies #yandinastation #sunshinecoastwedding #sunshinecoastcelebrant #vibes #nothingbutgoodvibes #brideandgroom #weddingday #marriagecelebrant #sunshinecoast #noosawedding #noosacelebrant #weddingsatyandinastation

A post shared by Beth // I Heart Ceremonies (@iheartceremonies) on Feb 4, 2019 at 12:10am PST

Pamela Marriage Celebrant

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A post shared by Pamela Marriage Celebrant (@pamelamarriagecelebrant) on Feb 19, 2019 at 1:37pm PST

Kirsty Spencer

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Groomsmen selfie! How good does Jacob and his grooms squad look in their white polka dot shirts and floral ties ?? @jacob_kiraly #onefinekiraly

A post shared by Sunshine Coast Celebrant (@kirstyspencercelebrant) on Oct 28, 2018 at 2:04am PDT

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The Love Story of Megan + Donald | Noosa Wedding

Sally Townsend — Wed, 13 Jun 2018 03:32:02 +0000

Long distance couldn’t separate this pair…

The love story between Megan and Donald started when they worked together at a solar company in Brisbane. Both were in relationships at the time, so they became friends but lost touch when they both left the company. Donald travelled north for work, and a few years later reconnected with Megan on Facebook. Finally their timing was right.

They clicked (literally) and soon started dating – and not just dating, but maintaining a long distance relationship for two years. This was the first test of strength, honesty and trust for Megan and Donald, and, where many have failed, these two succeeded.

Donald eventually moved back to Brisbane, and they tested the next stage of their relationship – moving in together. Once again, they succeeded, so they decided to test the ultimate faith in their relationship – buying a house to renovate. Thankfully Megan had already accepted Donald’s proposal by this stage and now, with their renovations almost complete, they look forward to moving onto the next phase of their lives.

Images by Amy Hinks

Wedding Ceremony

Megan and Donald celebrated their ceremony and reception at the Noosa Waterfront Restaurant & Bar surrounded by 100 of their closest family and friends. With afternoon thunderstorms predicted, plans A to D were put in place for the ceremony. Thankfully the weather held out and the ceremony went ahead as originally planned.

It was really important to the couple to have a laid back wedding day with their friends and family, and they achieved this by carefully choosing their suppliers. After meeting a number of celebrants, they chose Fiona Duce from Coastal Weddings, who worked closely with the couple to create a fun ceremony, with a focus on their love story. Photographer, Amy Hinks kept the day light and fun and captured great natural shots and wedding stylist Annie from First Class Functions kept Megan’s stress to a minimum by carefully planning the final touches for the day.

Wedding Planning

Megan cut down costs by putting her DIY skills to work, making wedding favours with help from friends and family – homemade jams and chutneys in small jars decorated with kraft labels and jute. She also made the invitations, menus, wedding programs and advice cards, and had the wedding cake made by one of her close friends.

“By making a lot of the smaller items myself we saved a lot of money which meant we could put more towards the things that were important to us, like inviting more guests, my dream dress and a bar tab that lasted the whole night!” She said.

Engagement Shoot

“Having an engagement shoot is also something I highly recommend. Amy Hinks Photography offered this as part of our package and by having a practice run we got all the awkward shots out of the way before the wedding day and it gave us a chance to get to know our photographer. On the day Donald was much more relaxed getting his photo taken, some would even say he was a bit of a pro!” said Megan.

The Special Moments

The couple said the best part of their wedding was spending time with their closest friends and family.

Megan said, “We both had an amazing day and got to catch up with friends and family that we don’t get to see too often.”

“It was a very humid day and it got very hot inside the restaurant as the meals were served, with more than 100 guests inside. Luckily, we had seating areas set up by First Class Functions on the lawn outside the restaurant overlooking the water. They set up lounges and tables and chairs for guests to spread out after dinner, which helped everyone cool off and created an interactive and fun environment.

“One of the most special parts of the day was having two members of my bridal party travel from overseas, my sister who travelled from Canada and one of my best friends who came over from Singapore. Having them there by my side made the whole day so much fun. Our entire bridal party was absolutely amazing and we had a whole heap of fun during the photoshoot along the Noosa River, sipping on champagne and catching up.”

Megan and Donald with their celebrant, Fiona Duce. Fiona is a longtime local of the Sunshine Coast and celebrant who adores the process of being a wedding celebrant from meeting the couple and getting to know them, right through to being by their side on the big day when they become husband and wife. Fiona authored today’s post, sharing Megan and Donald’s beautiful love story and wedding.

The post The Love Story of Megan + Donald | Noosa Wedding appeared first on The Bride's Tree.

Mother-of-the-Bride-come-Celebrant

Sally Townsend — Thu, 25 Feb 2016 13:34:57 +0000

For Sunshine Coast celebrant, Kathy Young, who has officiated over 100 weddings in the past three years, each one has left a distinct impression etched in her memory. None so vividly than her own daughter’s wedding. Kathy had this to say about taking on the role of celebrant for this emotional, happy day.

“The best part of the day wasn’t just being the mother of the bride. A pretty cool role on its own, but also being the lucky one, who actually got to marry them.”

Images by Florido Photography

“Watching my baby, Jade, walk down the aisle with her elder sister as bridesmaid was something really special, and holding back the tears was tough.”

“Although there was one small problem – a slip of the tongue during the vows. I’m usually calm and collected for the wedding I perform, but this one must have thrown me. Instead of calling my new son-in-law his name Lloyd, I somehow managed to call him ‘Lord’, much to his pleasure. Something he has also ‘vowed’ to not let me forget!”

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