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