Wedding aboard the MV Baroness on the Brisbane River

Wedding aboard the MV Baroness on the Brisbane River

Colleen and Dan wanted to do something a little unique for their wedding day, and chartered a cruiser boat on the Brisbane River for their Friday morning wedding.

The guests gathered at Murarrie, and boarded the vessel at 9:45 to allow for a safety briefing before we set off. Friends and family enjoyed the winter sunshine as we travelled down the Brisbane River, passing iconic Brisbane landmarks en route. The ceremony was held just off New Farm Park, and Colleen and Dan faced their guests under a circular arbour on the bow of the boat (look at me - all technical with the nautical terms!)

Colleen styled her jet black hair in a whimsical bun reminiscent of Amy Winehouse. Initially trying on a white dress, she ultimately decided on a corset bustier crafted from burgundy velvet with gold brocade. Complementing the corset was a magnificent shimmery full skirt with a thigh-high split and pockets, displaying shades of burgundy with one swish and royal blue with the next.

Dan, his groomsmen, and the bridesmaids all wore black.

The highlight of the ceremony was the personal vows written by Dan and Colleen, which reflected their journey and the blended family they have created.

As the cruiser approached the Story Bridge, photographer Amy climbed onto the top deck and captured a photo of the entire entourage as they cheered on the newlyweds kissing.

Luckily for me, there was no stop to disembark, and I enjoyed the remainder of the cruise with a sumptuous lunch, small glass of bubbles, and chatting to the interesting array of invitees under the June sun.

A magnificent day was had by all.

Venue: @Baroness Charter Cruises

Celebrant: Cheryl Landsberry - Marriage Celebrant

Photographer: Amy from Papillon Studio

#brisbanerivercruisewedding

#winterwedding

#brisbanewedding

Elopement at Brisbane Botanic Gardens, Mount Coot-tha

 

Rebecca and Dan knew they had found “the one” and set about organising a low key elopement to mark the beginning of their lifetime commitment. They contacted the team at Elope Brisbane to make it all happen for them.

Though Rebecca and Dan hailed from up north, distance proved no barrier to their plans. Our first meeting took place through a phone screen—faces illuminated by excitement as we shared stories and laughter, planning every detail from afar. Emails buzzed back and forth, each message weaving ideas and suggestions into the tapestry of their day. Together, we crafted a ceremony that was as clever, heartfelt, and unique as the couple themselves—a script written not just with words, but with the spirit of adventure and the promise of something extraordinary.

After flying in to Brisbane, the couple checked into their hotel and enjoyed the crisp winter evening in the city. On their wedding day, Dan relaxed as Rebecca was glammed up by Hollywood Brides, with her shiny brown hair pulled back into an elegant twist at the nape of her neck. She opted for neutral makeup, which Dan appreciated later once the couple shared their wedding kisses.

The team from Elope Brisbane met the couple at the entrance of the leafy Botanic Gardens, and we strolled along the paths until finding a willow tree by the pond. Being a week day, there was no one else around, and the gardens were tranquil. We set up a table and two chairs for the signing of the marriage certificates and brought out the flowers – a white rose for Dan’s lapel and a beautiful bouquet featuring proteas for Rebecca,

Dan, very smart in a suit with a white tie and matching pocket square, watched as Rebecca walked towards him to an acoustic cover of “Amazed”. Rebecca wore a lovely white wedding gown with embossed white flowers and a v neck.

The world around them stood still as Rebecca and Dan spoke their vows to each other – with just the right mix of sentiment and humour.

After signing the marriage certificates, the couple cut their mini wedding cake and shared a slice of white chocolate with raspberry swirl. Then they meandered around the gardens with photographer, Romana, capturing their delighted grins on film.

The couple had a degustation 7 course meal planned for the evening, and of course, quite a lot of leftover cake to enjoy.

Rebecca and Dan sent this lovely email, “Thank you so much for yesterday. It truly was the most amazing day for Daniel and I. You made us feel so special.” And that’s what it’s all about, really. Listening to our couples and fulfilling their vision. I could do this every day!

 

Location: Brisbane Botanic Gardens, Mount Coot-tha

Coordination: Elope Brisbane

Photographer: Romana Saeheng

Celebrant: Cheryl Landsberry

Hair and Makeup: Hollywood Brides

Flowers: Capalaba Carnations

Cake: Cakes by Simone

@mtcootthaweddings

#elopement

#justthetwoofus

#brisbanewedding

Wedding at Sure Thing Chapel, Capalaba

Local couple, Alana and Jarrod, decided that the Sure Thing Chapel at Capalaba would be super convenient for their fuss free, weekday wedding.

It was a family affair, as Jarrod, looking smart in a grey suit with pale green tie, arrived at the chapel with his parents, brother, brother-in-laws, son, and nephew. Lovely bride, Alana, in a white lace dress, arrived with her entourage, her son, parents, sisters, cousin, and nieces. The bridesmaids wore sage green, with both sets of parents wearing shades of green.

The couple loved that the space was so versatile, and with 7 youngsters under 8, were pleased that the doors could be closed and the entire premises was for their own private use.

Alana and Jarrod’s ceremony was light and low key, with Alana placing the ring on Jarod’s finger with the words, “Please wear this ring so all the girls at the pub know that I belong to you, and you belong to me.”

The couple planned to reveal their secret marriage to friends at their engagement party on Saturday night! Wishing I was a fly on the wall to see the guests reactions.

In a funny twist, we realised that I had been the celebrant for Alana’s mum and step dad when they married fifteen years ago – also at Capalaba! It was great to catch up with the whole family, and see how they’ve all grown up – some now with children of their own.

Check out the fun and funky Sure Thing Chapel at Capalaba for your affordable, simple, and weather proof wedding options.

Ceremony location: Sure Thing Collective & Wedding Venue

Photography: Romana Saeheng Photography and Graphic Design

Celebrant: Cheryl Landsberry - Marriage Celebrant

#microwedding

#brisbanewedding

#weddingchapel

Wedding venue with a plan B for rainy days

When Sam and CJ booked their wedding a year in advance, they had no idea what the weather would be. However, they did realise the importance of choosing a venue which provided a plan B option. And even though their wedding day dawned with on/off rain showers, they were able to enjoy a beautiful wedding experience at Redland Bay Golf Club.

The couple decided on a morning wedding, with the ceremony scheduled for 11am under the arbour on the lawn of the golf club. The rain was light, but persistent, and we reluctantly made the call to hold the ceremony on the deck of the clubhouse.

The deck was already set with round tables for the reception, however, the club’s dedicated team seamlessly transitioned the sapce, ensuring that nothing could dampen the spirits of the happy couple and their guests. The rain became an unexpected backdrop, adding a touch of romance as droplets danced on the roof of the deck, and the guests looked out over the lush golf course. The couple, surrounded by their loved ones, exchanged vows with the gentle sound of rain in the background, making their special day even more memorable.

The rain reminded the couple of their first weekend away, where a tropical storm drenched the couple and their overnight bags. They looked at each other and laughed, knowing that nothing could ruin their experience, so long as they were together.

Congratulations to Sam and CJ - just remember the saying that a wet knot is harder to untie!

Venue: Redland Bay Weddings

Celebrant: Cheryl Landsberry - Marriage Celebrant

Photographer: A Thousand Miles Photography

#brisbanewedding

#rainyweddingday

#PlanB

Surprise Wedding at an Engagement Party

The morning started like any other engagement party, with friends and family gathering to celebrate the engagement of Hayley and Josh. The setting was perfect: a local park set up with a banquet table, white balloons and an air of anticipation. Little did everyone know, the couple had a delightful surprise in store.

As guests arrived and took their seats at the banquet table, they were greeted with warm smiles and cold drinks. Friends and family caught up with those they hadn’t seen for some time. The couple, radiating happiness, mingled with their guests, thanking them for their presence on such a special day.

There was a little intrigue, as myself and the photographer walked up to join the guests at Kholo Gardens. I announced that Hayley and Josh had requested that I say a few words on the occasion of their engagement. I disclosed that the couple were planning on a short engagement, and had, in fact, decided to marry right then and there at their engagement party.

After gasps and squeals, the guests erupted in cheers and applause. Hayley and Josh, their hearts beating wildly, stepped to the makeshift ceremony area between the white ballons, and grabbed tightly to each other’s hands. Hayley wore a simple yet elegant white dress and Josh looked smart in trousers with a crisp white shirt. The guests carried their chairs to the ceremony area, chattering excitedly at how Josh and Hayley had been able to keep all the plans a secret.

The ceremony was short and sweet, with the couple exchanging vows that they had written themselves, filled with promises of love, laughter, and unwavering support. During the ceremony, I told of their journey together since their first meeting at high school, and of the dreams they shared.

After the legal vows and wedding rings were exchanged, I declared the couple husband and wife. They sealed their union with a tender kiss, met with a chorus of cheers and applause from their guests. It was a moment of pure joy, celebration and relief.

The reception that followed was equally joyous, with guests enjoying a buffet lunch washed down with a beverage or two. The atmosphere was filled with laughter, love, and celebration. It was a day that none present would forget, a day which Hayley and Josh declared was the best day ever.

Congratulations!

NB – Marriage in Australia requires a couple giving a month’s Notice before their wedding day, which Hayley and Josh fulfilled.

Location: Kholo Gardens, Muirlea

Celebrant: Cheryl Landsberry - Marriage Celebrant

Photographer: https://www.facebook.com/shae.imagery

#surprisewedding

#brisbanewedding

#surpriseweddingatanengagmentparty

Sharon and Mark’s Country Style Wedding

The magic of a backyard wedding is that the fruits of all your labour and investment stay with you, adding charm to your home forever.

Sharon and Mark, both tying the knot for the second time, chose a laid-back, fun-filled country-style celebration. Mark, a real-life cowboy and all-round handy guy, transformed their suburban backyard into a rustic barnyard, while Sharon's crafty talents brought in all the charming details.

Mark got to work by dismantling the old chicken coop, levelling the yard, building a retaining wall, and covering the fences and garage with stable-door style palings. He constructed a wooden arbour, scattered hay bales for seating, and hung fairy lights on the decking trusses.

Sharon, inspired by countless YouTube DIY videos, created beautiful floral arrangements from dried flowers and pampas grass. She adorned the arbour and the ceremony area, placing flowers on the arbour, in milk pails and glass jars on every flat surface.

The result was a western wonderland.

As their children, grandchildren, and friends gathered on the deck, Mark and his groomsmen strutted down the aisle to "Save a Horse, Ride a Cowboy" by Big & Rich. The crowd erupted in cheers, claps, and whistles, setting the stage for a lively and joyous wedding ceremony.

Following this, I played "I Knew I Loved You" by Savage Garden as the bridesmaids–Sharon's daughters, nieces, and granddaughters–walked out in sage green dresses. Sharon, radiant in a white boho gown and carrying a bouquet of her own creation, was escorted down the aisle by her son, Harry.

When I asked the guests for their heartfelt wishes for the couple's union, they responded with a hearty "Yeehaw!" signaling a fun-filled, rowdy reception ahead. The ceremony, crafted with Mark and Sharon's input, was lighthearted and sweet, sprinkled with playful cowboy references.

Mark’s vows even included the words, “from the moment we pulled our first calf together..”

The newlyweds rode off into the sunset together to "Beautiful as You" by Thomas Rhett, ready to embrace their happily-ever-after.

Celebrant: Cheryl Landsberry - Marriage Celebrant

Photographer: Ryley Ellison

#cowboywedding

#backyardwedding

#brisbanewedding