Wedding Ceremony & Reception | 21 November 2009 | Lauren & Michael | Chapel Hill, Berambing, Blue Mountains

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

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Wedding Ceremony & Reception | 14 November 2009 | Yolanda and Damien

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

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Wedding Ceremony & Reception | 7 November 2009 | Nona-Jane & Gary | Private Residence

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

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