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