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