Wedding Reception | 25 May 2013 | Julianne and Ben | Southern Highland Wines, Sutton Forest, Southern Highlands

"Happiness is not a destination. It is a way of life". " We don't stop laughing because we grow old, we grow old because we stop laughing". Signs with these two quotes were displayed prominently at the reception and totally represents Julianne and Ben. Besides being one of the most genuine, humble and sweetest couples I have ever met, Both cherish and adore each other to bits. Julianne has the most beautiful smile, an infectious laughter and a great attitude to life. Ben is a straight forward guy who loves cars but who also possesses a lovely warm nature - together they make the perfect couple and their wedding day was a true reflection of who they are, what they like and the beautiful love they share.

Julianne and Ben met in High School back in 1995. Ben took Julianne to an illegal drag race on their first date. Around two years later they realised they were deeply in love, but it was not until New Year's Eve in 2011 that Ben surprised Julianne by proposing during the fireworks.

They were blessed with a beautiful sunny autumn day for their wedding in the Southern Highlands. The ceremony took place in a local church followed by the reception in the Barrel Room at Southern Highland Wines, Sutton Forest. As the sun slowly started to set and the chill began to fill the air, guests were welcomed with drinks, canapés and the warm interior of the Tasting Room. A little while later guests made their way downstairs to the Barrel Room and welcomed the parents; Diana, Hank, Cathie & Rod, the Bridesmaids & Grooms men; Brittney, Mark, Annette & Mathew, The Matron of Honour & Best Man; Katrina & Michael and finally our newly-weds, Julianne and Ben!! A short welcome & thank you from Julianne before the entrée was served and enjoyed by all.

It was now time to commence the formalities for the evening with speeches from the two dad's. Julianne's dad Hank was first followed by Ben's dad, Rod. Both conveyed how very happy and proud they were on this wonderful occasion. The cutting of the cake, champagne and a kiss followed before the delightful main meal was served followed by speeches from Julianne & Ben's year co-ordinator Carol and then Julianne's sister and Matron of Honour, Katrina. A little bit of fun with the newly-wed game before guests enjoyed a delectable dessert. A speech from the best man Michael and then Ben himself. Ben thanked everyone for being a part of their day and stressed how much it meant to them both and once again declared his love for Julianne. A man of few words, but it was honest, straight from the heart and very meaningful.

To the sounds of Adele's, " Make You feel My Love", Julianne and Ben commenced dancing their very first dance as husband and wife before being joined firstly by their wedding party and then the remainder of the guests. The rest of the evening was filled with dancing, catching up and having photos at the "Crazy Booth". Time flies when you are having fun and before we knew it it was time for the bouquet and garter toss, the farewell dance with all the guests, guard of honour and Julianne and Ben departed on the highway to their new life together in their blue "hotted up and loud" chariot.

It was a fantastic day in a beautiful location and I believe the wedding represented who the both of you are perfectly. Julianne and Ben, thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to get to know you a little, hear your love story and be a part of your day as your Southern Highlands wedding DJ & MC. I loved seeing the connection you share, seeing the mutual love and respect you have for each other, your beautiful smiles, your inner beauty - it was truly an honour and privilege. I know that your life together will continue to bring you both lots of happiness. Enjoy married life and the journey to your "Happily Ever After" (there was a reason those words were on the wedding table) and may love, laughter and music continue to fill your lives forever!!! 

Julianne & Ben's unique wishing well - an engine!!

Favours - Measuring spoons for the girls and Sparkplug bottle openers for the guys.

Julianne's dad Hank                                                                               Ben's dad Rod

Julianne & Ben's High School Year Co-Ordinator, Carol & Matron of Honour Katrina

Best Man Michael                                                                                           

The Crazy Booth

Photography and Video by DJ:Plus! Entertainment

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Songs selected by Bride and Groom;

• Parents Entry: "Fade To Black" by Apocolyptica

• Wedding Party Entry: "Beautiful People" (Instrumental) by Marilyn Manson, "Cowboys From Hell" (Instrumental) by Pantera, "Chop Suey" (Instrumental) by System Of A Down

• Bride & Groom Entry: "Shipping Up To Boston" (Instrumental) by Dropkick Murphys

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

• First Dance: "Make You Feel My Love" by Adele

• Bouquet Toss "Paradise By The Dashboard Light" by Meatloaf

• Garter Toss: "Yakety Sax" by Boots Randolph & Domenic Hauser

• Farewell Dance: "My Best Friend" by Tim McGraw

• Final Farewell Song: "State Of Massachusetts" (Instrumental) by Dropkick Murphys
  

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Other Wedding Professionals

Hot Rod Hire: Ripper Hot Rod Hire

Photographer: Vibrant Photography

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