Wedding Ceremony & Reception 21 November 2009 - Lauren & Michael Notley

In what was forecast to be another extremely hot day, Lauren and Michael were fortunate enough to have selected to have their wedding at Chapel Hill, on the foot hills of Mt Tomah in the Blue Mountains. It was a beautiful day and the location took a few degrees off the temperature, affording some relief for the 90 guests gathered to share their special day.

As the sound of "Somewhere Over The Rainbow" filled the air the bridesmaids made their way through the picturesque grounds and to the ceremony area. Escorted by her dad Glenn, Lauren followed. When they reached the ceremony area, Glenn passed Lauren's hand to Michael and the ceremony began. It was a very personalised and beautiful ceremony officiated by Mark Chapple followed with lovely readings from Alissa, Chris, Kingsley & Kim plus a commitment from both sets of parents to be a shining example of love and devotion and to encourage them to help build a strong and loving marriage.

"Today I take you to be my partner in life and my one true love
Together we will create a home, becoming a part of one another
I will trust you and respect you, laugh with you and cry with you, loving you faithfully through good times and bad
I vow to be honest, caring and truthful, to love you as you are, and to grow old by your side, as your love and best friend."

Following the ceremony, guests were treated to drinks and canapes in the gazebo where a gentle breeze made sure everybody stayed cool whilst Lauren, Michael and the wedding party had photographs taken throughout the Chapel Hill grounds.

When it was time, the wedding party entered the reception clapping and dancing encouraging the guests to stand and join in prior to Lauren and Michael entering to fantastic applause. Michael quickly welcomed everyone and thanked them for being a part of their day before guests were treated to something a little different from the norm at weddings these days and that was a table buffet. This is where a selection of dishes for each course of the meal are bought to each table and then guests help themselves.

This lovely meal was followed by great speeches from Lauren's dad Glenn, Bridesmaids Alissa and Jessica, best man Tim and last but not least, Michael who spoke of his love for Lauren and thanking the parents and those who had traveled great distances to witness and celebrate the beginning of his and Lauren's life together.

Following the cutting of the wedding cake and dessert it was time for Lauren and Michael's first dance. They had a little bit of a surprise for everyone as they had a choreographed routine which also involved the wedding party. I have a portion below for your enjoyment. The guests all joined in towards the end of the song and from that point on it really was party time!! All too quickly however it was time for this lovely couple to say farewell and the reception was over.


Whenever you looked at either Lauren or Michael throughout the day there was either a big smile on their faces or the look of love glistening in their eyes (you need only look at the random photos posted here to confirm this) it was obvious that this is a union based on deep love, honesty, respect, tenderness and faith. I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to get to know them, I know that this love will only continue to grow and blossom. They are a beautiful couple and it was nothing but a joy and a pleasure to have been a part of their wedding day.

Songs selected by Bride and Groom;

• Bridesmaids Processional: "Somewhere Over The Rainbow / What A Wonderful World" by Israel Kamakawiwo'le

• Bride Processional: "Somewhere Over The Rainbow / What A Wonderful World" by Israel Kamakawiwo'le

• Register Signing: "Rorate" by Chris Duncan & Catherine Strutt
  

• Recessional: "I'm A Believer" by Smash Mouth, "Beautiful Day" by U2
  

• Wedding Party Entry: "Shout" by Johnny O'Keefe
  

• Bride & Groom Entry: "My Girl" by The Temptations
  

• Cake Cutting Song: "I Wanna Grow Old With You" by Adam Sandler
  

• Bridal Waltz/First Dance: "Lucky" by Jason Mraz & Colbie Caillat / "The Boy Does Nothing" by Alesha Dixon
  

• Farewell Circle/Circle Of Love: "All I Want Is You" by Barry Louis Polisar, "LA" by Old Man River

• Final Farewell Song: "Wish You Well" by Bernard Fanning
  

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Other Wedding Professionals

Celebrant: Mark Chapple from Hawkesbury Valley Baptist Church

Photographer: Tim Munro Photography

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Fun On The Dancefloor

Photography and Video by DJ:Plus! Entertainment

Wedding Ceremony & Reception 14 November 2009 - Yolanda and Damien Wall

Everything needed for Yolanda and Damien's wedding day was organised within three months, and what a great day it turned out to be. The ceremony and reception was held on Damien's mothers rural property in Cecil Park on a perfect warm spring day with a slight breeze to make sure everybody kept cool - it certainly was a lovely setting for this fantastic couple to be united.

The 200 family and friends which had gathered to witness their beautiful ceremony, officiated by Baron Gold, shared in the absolute radiance of the day - that created by the sunshine and the greater radiance of the love that Yolanda and Damien have for one another. The flower girls, pageboys and bridesmaids and then Yolanda, escorted by her father Kurt, made their way through the garden to the arbour where Damien was waiting. In what seemed to be no time at all they were signing the Marriage Register and Baron was proclaiming them as husband and wife.

"I love you for yourself and will love you through good fortune and adversity.
I make you a promise that from this day forward, you shall not walk alone.
My heart will be your shelter and my arms will be your home."

Following the ceremony, the guests were treated to drinks and canapes in a specially created area just outside the large reception marquee whilst Yolanda, Damien and the wedding party had photographs taken around the property - including some with a red Mustang and a Harley Davidson.

Children's entertainment in the form of Chuckles the Clown and Rocky Starr had also been organised to keep the kids amused and busy with various activities and face painting. This was enjoyed immensely by all the children and also allowed the parents to relax and enjoy themselves.

Yolanda and Damien were given a rousing welcome as they entered the marquee. A short welcome and thank you from Damien before guests were invited to partake of a fabulous buffet which had been prepared. Following dessert the best man, Darren recounted some tales of the life of Damien, the times they had shared and he also expressed how perfect a couple Yolanda and Damien made.

At the end of Darren's speech, it was time for the cutting of the cake, a very passionate kiss and onto the dancing with Yolanda and Damien inviting all the guests to join them - which they did creating a fun party atmosphere. Throughout the evening, Damien, edged on by Darren, bust some moves on the dance floor to the delight of all present with "the helicopter" and "the sprinkler" being highlights. Needless to say, everybody had a wonderful time.

To end the evening, guests were again invited to share the last dance which created lots of energy and ended the reception on a high. Another beautiful couple which I had the privilege and honour of meeting, getting to know and playing a part in their special day. Yolanda and Damien's love will continue to blossom as the passing years strengthens their love and life together. Given the fact that they were able to organise everything for their wedding in three months is testament to what is possible for these two as they take on the world together.

Songs selected by Bride and Groom;

• Bridesmaids Processional: "She Will Be Loved" by Maroon 5
  

• Bride Processional: "Finally Found" by Honeyz
  

• Register Signing: "Love Story Meets Viva La Vida" by Jon Schmidt
  

• Wedding Party Entry: "I Gotta Feeling" by Black Eyed Peas
  

• Bride & Groom Entry: "I Gotta Feeling" by Black Eyed Peas
  

• Cake Cutting Song: "Take Me To The Clouds Above" by LMC Vs U2
  

• First Dance: "Use Somebody" by Kings Of Leon
  

• Farewell Dance: "All Fired Up" by Pat Benatar
  

• Final Farewell Song: "Run To Paradise" by The Choirboys
  

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Other Wedding Professionals

Celebrant: Baron Gold

Photographer: Cornerstone Photography - 0416 138 500

Caterer: G.C. Exclusive Catering - 9620 1646 / 0412 041 599

Children's Entertainment: Starz Family Funday Show

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Fun On The Dancefloor

Photography and Video by DJ:Plus! Entertainment

Wedding Ceremony & Reception 7 November 2009 - Nona-Jane and Gary Brown

When Nona first enquired about my services it was on the basis that the event to be celebrated was her forthcoming 50th Birthday. As we continued to discuss her requirements and the schedule for the day it was eventually revealed that she and Gary were planning to marry earlier in the day - however many of the 50 invited guests would not be privy to this information and the invitation that they would receive would be for Nona's 50th Birthday - so in essence a surprise wedding!

It was a beautiful day and the ceremony and celebration took place on Nona and Gary's exquisite property located in the rural Sydney suburb of Glenorie. The ceremony, which was only attended by a small number of family members, and officiated by Dr Lindy Crocker, was both heartfelt and moving.

Following the ceremony, the family members, many whom had traveled from New Zealand, enjoyed canapes and champagne in the beautiful surroundings. At around 6.00 pm, the remainder of the guests started arriving for "Nona's 50th Birthday ". They were treated to lovely finger food and refreshments.

As the wedding was a surprise and the celebration was in honour of Nona turning 50, there were minimal formalities which helped to create the relaxed and comfortable atmosphere which they both desired. There was a speech from Gary later in the evening where he announced the marriage to the surprise of those who had not as yet caught on that it was not just a birthday celebration. He mentioned that it had been quite a good week, with obtaining a contract that he had been working on for some time, winning the Melbourne Cup (well the office sweep), but that these achievements were insignificant in comparison to his greatest win - which was marrying Nona. As this was officially Nona's 50th birthday celebration, she then cut her birthday cake and everybody sang Happy Birthday.

Nona and Gary then took to the dance floor for their first dance inviting everybody to join them. There was many hours of dancing and a wonderful time had by all the family and close friends which were lucky to have shared in their special day.

A very lovely couple who truly love and value their family and friends, but more importantly, each other. As always, it was a great honour and privilege to have been given the opportunity to help make their wedding and Nona's birthday memorable.

Songs selected by Bride and Groom;

• Bride Processional: "Mull of Kintyre" by Royal Scots Drugoon Guards Band
  

• Register Signing: "Canto Della Terra" by Andrea Bocelli, "Ave Maria" by Andrea Bocelli
  

• Bride & Groom Recessional: "All You Need Is Love" by The Beatles

• Birthday Cake Cutting Song: "The Candyman" by Sammy Davis Jr.
  

• Bridal Waltz/First Dance: "Can't Help Falling In Love" by Elvis Presley
  

• Final Farewell Song: "Con Te Partiro (Time To Say Goodbye)" by Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman
  

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Other Wedding Professionals

Celebrant: Dr Lindy Crocker

Event Designer: Events With Panache

Caterer: Icon Event Catering

Photographer: OneShot Photography - 0404 392 464

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Fun On The Dancefloor

Photography by DJ:Plus! Entertainment

Corporate Event 6 November 2009

This was the Annual Gala Dinner for the Spanish Chamber of Commerce. The Spanish Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit association that promotes business and trade opportunities between Spain and Australia. The Annual Gala Dinner celebrates Spanish brands making their mark on the world and showcases the best that Spain has to offer.

Held in the Foundation Hall at the Museum of Contemporary Arts, attendees enjoyed an exquisite Spanish meal created by Spanish chef Javier Codina. Invited VIP's included His Excellency Carlos Sanchez de Boado Y De La Valgama, Ambassador of Spain, his wife Mrs Elena Torreguitar Delpech and the NSW Minister for Fair Trading, Minister for Citizenship, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts - Virginia Judge.

The night began with a piece from the Sydney Dance Company, continued with a performance from Australia's leading baritone Jose Carbo and followed by Diana Reynes Flamenco, I managed to get a short video of the flamenco dancers which is provided below for your enjoyment.


DJ:Plus! Entertainment concluded the entertainment for this wonderful evening by providing a set of largely spanish/latin influenced tracks which resulted in the guests dancing the night away.

Photography and Video by DJ:Plus! Entertainment

Wedding Ceremony & Reception 10 October 2009 - Linda and Avin Prasad

Linda and Avin, are a lovely Indian couple, who actually had their official wedding ceremony a week earlier and I believe there was a number of days of traditional festivities to celebrate. These prior festivities were mainly attended by a large number of Indian guests. Linda and Avin wished to share their joy with family, friends and colleagues many who were not a part of the earlier celebration - so whilst not the official wedding day this celebration was conducted along the lines of as if they were marrying on this actual day.

A beautiful re-affirmation of their vows ceremony was held at the Treillage Tower at 9.00am in Bicentennial Park officiated by Ian Toll on this lovely spring morning. There was a very touching moment during the vows when emotions took over and Linda became a little overwhelmed. Following the ceremony, guests were treated to refreshments adjacent to Treillage Tower.

"I married you because I love you.
I love you dearly and want to live with you for the rest of my life.
I want you to know that our Marriage is a relationship built on loyalty, trust and loving care.
We both believe in Marriage - in the fullness of a husband and wife relationship.
Our love is endless and unlimited like the ring I wear for you."

At 11.00 am, the 130 guests made their way to Waterview which has lovely parkland and lake views of Bicentennial Park and was a fantastic venue for this lunchtime celebration. After guests enjoyed their entree we had speeches by Linda's Uncle Jim, Avin's brother, Saehin and Bridesmaid Sharon. This was followed by the main meal and then there was entertainment by two Bollywood dancers.

Proceeding with the remainder of the speeches we first heard from Matron of Honour, Kimberley. Next was Best Man Saul, who during his speech was on a rollercoaster of emotions - from tears through to laughter and more. Finally it was Avin's turn - who also became a little emotional and teary as he spoke. It was lovely to see this emotion on display as these individuals bared their inner most feelings to the family and friends gathered before them.

Linda and Avin cut their wedding cake, sealed their union with a kiss and then had their special dance - mid way through the dance, they were joined by the rest of the wedding party and then the remainder of the guests. Daylight tends to make people more inhibited and shy away from dancing, however this was not the case today as everybody was in the mood to party!!! .....especially Linda who was on the dance floor most of the afternoon - just check out the photos and video clips below to see Linda having such a great time.

A lovely couple who are very much in love, a lovely ceremony, a fantastic reception to celebrate and many wonderful memories that Linda and Avin will always treasure.

Songs selected by Bride and Groom;

• Bridesmaids Processional: "The Wedding Song" by Kenny G
  

• Bride Processional: "Wedding March" by Mendelssohn
  

• Register Signing: "Amazing Grace" by Sister Act, "Signed, Sealed, Delivered" by Stevie Wonder
  

• Wedding Party Entry: "I Don't Want To Miss A Thing" by Aerosmith

• Bride & Groom Entry: "I Don't Want To Miss A Thing" by Aerosmith

• Cake Cutting Song: "I Swear" by All-4-One
  

• Bridal Waltz/First Dance: "I Finally Found Someone" by Barbara Streisand & Bryan Adams
  

• Bouquet Toss: "Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It)" by Beyonce

• Garter Toss: "Fever" by Madonna

• Final Farewell Song: "Sunchyme" by Dario G
  

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Other Wedding Professionals

Celebrant: Ian Toll

Photographer: John Fick - The Art Of Photography

Videographer: Montaj Video Productions

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Fun On The Dancefloor

Photography and Video by DJ:Plus! Entertainment

Wedding Ceremony & Reception 26 September 2009 - Alison and Kieran Sladen

Wow!!! What a week in Sydney it has been. Dust storms throughout the City and suburbs leaving a film of red dust everywhere and in everything but creating some very spectacular imagery. On Saturday, it looked like the dust and wind might make a return and upset Alison and Kieran's wedding day. Lucky that they chose to have their ceremony and reception at one of my favourite wedding venues, Tumbling Waters Retreat. Perched on an escarpment with sweeping ocean and bushland views, this venue offered relative shelter from both the wind and dust and was the ideal location for this beautiful couple to accept each other totally and share their lives together.

The 70 invited guests all arrived early to share in the happiness of their day. Alison, who looked stunning, accompanied by her dad Tony and the bridesmaids made their way through the manicured garden and onto the deck overlooking the ocean and National Park where Kieran and the grooms men awaited. A beautiful ceremony, officiated by Keith Lammond, followed and before we knew it their lives were joined and the two of them had become one.

"I love you, not just for who you are, but for who I am when I am with you.
I love you, not only for what you have done with your life, but for how you've made mine so complete.
I love you for the happiness you have brought me and for the greater happiness I know is yet to come.
You are my every thought and my every desire.
You give me strength and fulfil my dreams.
You are my world and from this day forth I will take you, keep you, comfort and cherish you."

Following the ceremony, the guests were treated to drinks and canapes on the deck whilst Alison, Kieran and the wedding party had photographs taken throughout the Tumbling Waters grounds.

On entering the reception, the wedding party wandered around the room energising the guests for Alison and Kieran's entry. A quick welcome and thank you from Kieran and then guests were treated to a scrumptious entree. This was followed by lovely speeches from Alison's dad, Tony and best man, James.

Following a delicious main course, it was time for Alison and Kieran to say a few words. Both expressed deep gratitude to all those who had played a part in their special day, but in particular to their respective parents. They also both spoke about their feelings for each other - this wonderful couple's relationship has a very deep love as a foundation plus a mutual respect and understanding of each others needs - their happiness is assured and I know that their love will continue to grow. Kieran ended his speech by asking Alison to dance their first dance as husband and wife.

Unbeknown to the guests, Alison & Kieran had a choreographed routine planned, however they would start the dance with a ballad and then part way through segue into the choreographed piece. I have an excerpt below for your enjoyment. Needless to say it was a fantastic moment and the routine ended with a standing ovation and cheering from the guests.


Whilst everybody was enjoying dessert, a slideshow presentation recounting this beautiful love story was screened. Next it was the cutting of the cake and then the wedding party and guests hit the dance floor. Kieran & Alison were on the dance floor for nearly the entire time - having the time of their lives. The bouquet toss, a special presentation of the bridal bouquet to Alison's Mum, Lynne and it was time for the farewell circle.

To end the evening, Alison danced with her father Tony - it was an incredible moment for both of them. Sadly it was now time for Alison and Kieran to depart and the reception was over - but their life together had only just begun. A spectacular week in Sydney, a spectacular location, a spectacular wedding, the whole week was a big Wow!!.....but the biggest Wow!! was this spectacular couple!!

I love what I do and one of the benefits of my job is that I get the opportunity to meet and get to know the loveliest of people. All my couples are special to me and it is a real privilege and honour to be given the opportunity to be a part of their special day. Alison and Kieran were no exception, there was a lot of planning and work that went into this day - I enjoyed every second of it immensely and am still on a high from the satisfaction that I feel in having had a hand in helping to create some amazing wedding day memories for them.

Songs selected by Bride and Groom;

• Bridesmaids Processional: "I Can Only Imagine" by The O'Neill Brothers

• Bride Processional: "Lonely Island" by Ernesto Cortazar
  

• Register Signing: "This Old Love" by Lior, "Lucky" by Jason Mraz & Colbie Caillat
  

• Recessional: "Signed, Sealed, Delivered" by Human Nature

• Wedding Party Entry: "People Get Ready" by Human Nature, "Power Of Love" by Huey Lewis & The News

• Bride & Groom Entry: "Lovin' Each Day" by Ronan Keating

• Cake Cutting Song: "Kisses & Cake" by John Powell
  

• Bridal Waltz/First Dance: "This I Promise You" by Ronan Keating / "How Sweet It Is" by Michael Buble
  

• Bouquet Toss: "Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It)" by Beyonce

• Farewell Circle/Circle Of Love: "This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)" by Natalie Cole, "Everything" by Michael Buble, "Happy Together" by The Turtles

• Father/Daughter Dance: "I'll Remember" by Madonna

• Final Farewell Song: "Drive Away" by Sundance Kids
  

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Other Wedding Professionals

Celebrant: Keith Lammond

Photographer & Videographer: Collective Studio

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Fun On The Dancefloor

Photography and Video by DJ:Plus! Entertainment

Wedding Reception 12 September 2009 - Nerilee and Andrew Blackman

The Blue Mountains was the ideal choice of location for the marriage of Nerilee and Andrew. In what turned out to be one of the most beautiful September weekends in many many years, they became one at St. Alban's Anglican Church in Leura and celebrated with 165 guests at The Carrington Hotel, Katoomba. The Carrington has a long and rich history spanning almost a century and a quarter. The Hotel and the Grand Dining Room with it's timeless elegance and fabulous decor, was the perfect venue for Nerilee and Andrew's reception.

The evening began with the members of the Wedding Party entering to their own individual song (see details below) and great applause - with the biggest applause being reserved for Nerilee and Andrew. Following the Entree there were lovely speeches by Nerilee's Father, John and then Andrew's Father, Geoff. Both expressed heartfelt sentiments and how proud they were to have gained a son and daughter respectively.

Guests were then served a delicious Main Meal which was followed by the remainder of the speeches. We heard from Nathan & Billy who read various telegrams and best wishes. Next up we had Andrew's brother Mark who gave us an insight into how Andrew and Nerilee met. Finally Andrew made a lovely speech recounting the story of the meeting, subsequent courting and the proposal to Nerilee.

Below: Andrew & Nerilee

Below: Nerilee & Andrew socialising with guests

Below: Nerilee's Father, John - Below: Andrew's Father, Geoff

Below: Best Men, Nathan & Billy

Below: Best Man & Andrew's Brother, Mark

Below: Andrew

After Dessert, Nerilee and Andrew cut their wedding cake and then proceeded to the dance floor for the first dance as husband and wife. The first dance was a choreographed piece which they had been practicing for weeks beforehand. Needless to say the guests loved it and the dance concluded with much applause and cheering. I managed to capture a portion of their first dance for your enjoyment.

At the conclusion of the dance to both Nerilee and Andrew's surprise, the wedding party of "judges" provided a commentary and a score on their performance, Dancing With The Stars style - they were obviously very impressed as each judge scored them a 10!!! Next, led by the Flower Girl and Pageboy (which was really nice), the Wedding Party were also invited to the dance floor. Guests quickly joined in and the celebration was truly underway.

It was a wonderful evening, a lovely couple who were nothing but a pleasure to serve. They both demonstrated a very deep love and mutual respect for each other - in an environment such as this the love they share cannot but continue to grow and a bright future is assured.


Songs selected by Bride and Groom;

• Parents Of The Bride Entry Song: "Johnny B Goode" by Chuck Berry

• Parents Of The Groom Entry Song: "Hello, Goodbye" by The Beatles

• Flower Girl & Pageboy Entry Song: "Kids" by Kylie Minogue & Robbie Williams

• Best Man & Brides Girl Entry Song: "We Are Family" by Sister Sledge

• Best Man & Brides Girl Entry Song: "Just The Thing" by Paul Mac Feat. Peta Morris

• Best Man & Brides Girl Entry Song: "Walking On A Dream" by Empire Of The Sun

• Best Man & Brides Girl Entry Song: "Right Round" by Flo Rida
  

• Bride & Groom Entry Song: "Life In Technicolour II" by Coldplay

• Cake Cutting Song: "Sugar Sugar" by The Archies
  

• Bridal Waltz/First Dance: "Mercy" by Duffy
  

• Bouquet Toss: "Wishin' & Hopin'" by Dusty Springfield
  

• Garter Toss: "Hot Stuff" by Donna Summer
  

• Circle Of Love: "Bigger Than My Body" by John Mayer, "Waiting" by Greenday, "Kiss The Bride" by Elton John, "Crazy Little Thing Called Love" by Michael Buble, "Won't Go Home Without You" by Maroon 5, "Sea Of Love" by The Honeydrippers
  

• Final Farewell Song: "I Gotta Feeling" by Black Eyed Peas
  

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Other Wedding Professionals

Photographer: InLights Photography

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Fun On The Dancefloor

Photography and Video by DJ:Plus! Entertainment