Sarah and Alan’s Barefoot Micro Wedding on North Stradbroke Island

 This micro wedding had it all – blue skies and winter sunshine, a breathtaking location, an adventurous couple, and two special friends to witness the moment. Sarah and Alan’s micro wedding on North Stradbroke Island was relaxed, romantic, and a day they will forever treasure.

Their ceremony took place at Adder Rock, overlooking the sweep of Home Beach. With the ocean stretching out behind them, the couple stood barefoot on the rock and exchanged their vows in true Straddie style.

Alan absolutely went all out for the occasion—even ironing his crisp white shirt before pairing it with dusty blue shorts. It was the perfect mix of polished and coastal-casual. Sarah looked effortlessly elegant in a fitted white maxi dress, her hair tied up and finished with a dusty blue rose. Her bouquet brought the palette together beautifully, with soft whites and dusty blue tones that suited the beach setting perfectly.

As if the location wasn’t magical enough, Straddie put on a show. We spotted whales not far from shore, and even saw kangaroos feeding as the afternoon cooled. North Stradbroke Island has a way of making moments feel bigger and wilder, while still keeping everything beautifully calm and grounded.

After the ceremony, Sarah and Alan headed down to the water for newlywed portraits, laughing and frolicking in the waves. It was playful, joyful and perfectly suited to a couple who had chosen to celebrate their wedding day barefoot by the sea. The portraits felt less like posing and more like the two of them simply soaking up the moment together.

And of course, no Straddie adventure would be complete without the journey. We travelled to North Stradbroke Island in Busta, the orange Kombi van, which added one more burst of colour and character to an already unforgettable day. Sarah and Alan’s wedding was proof that a celebration doesn’t need to be big to be extraordinary—it just needs to feel true to the couple.

Coordination: Elope Brisbane

Photography: #Romana Saeheng

Celebrant: Cheryl Landsberry - Marriage Celebrant

Transport: Kandid Kombi

Buck’s Weekend

 

You may have read that my son, Jack, is going to be Man of Honour at his friends’ upcoming wedding. After the hen’s weekend was such a success, he and the best man worked together to plan the buck’s weekend.

If you missed the original post about Jack’s role, you can read more about it here: https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/7853470738021056897/4069946746289516325

You can also read about the hen’s weekend here: https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/7853470738021056897/7267789983495383472

 

Event Details

·         Timing: One month before the wedding day

·         Location: The Gold Coast

·         Guests: Eleven attendees

·         Cost: $875 per person

·         Accommodation: An Airbnb

·         Activities: Friday night dinner at Broadbeach Surf Club, drinks at Burleigh Pavilion, then a SWAT party bus package, Top Golf, a river cruise, and drinks at the casino on Saturday

What Went Well

Top Golf was one of the highlights of the weekend. The package included drinks, wings and pizza platters, which everyone enjoyed. The river cruise was also well equipped and added another enjoyable activity to the itinerary.

One of the attendees also brought along a maid’s outfit for the buck to wear, which added plenty of fun and gave the group something to laugh about.

What Could Have Gone Better

The party bus arrived late, which cut into the drinks package time at Top Golf. That was disappointing for the group – when there’s a drinks package, you want to be there early!

After seeing all the fantastic photos from the hen’s weekend, it was also a shame that there were not more high-quality photos from the buck’s weekend to capture the memories.

Hen’s Weekend

 You may have read that my son, Jack, is going to be Man of Honour at his friends’ upcoming wedding. One of his key duties was to organise the hen’s weekend, so I interviewed him to find out what he learned from planning the event.

If you missed the original post about Jack’s role, you can read more about it here: https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/7853470738021056897/4069946746289516325

Event Details

·         Timing: Three months before the wedding day

·         Location: The Gold Coast

·         Guests: Eight attendees

·         Cost: $550 per person

·         Accommodation: An Airbnb

·         Booked activities: Dracula’s Theatre Restaurant on Friday night and a sunset cruise planned for Saturday night

What Went Well

The group really enjoyed the show at Dracula’s Theatre Restaurant. The meal was reasonable, the entertainment was a hit, and the group photo was a thoughtful touch that everyone appreciated.

What Changed on the Day

The sunset cruise was cancelled at the last minute, which was disappointing and left Jack scrambling for an alternative. The group ended up going to the Ice Bar instead, which turned out to be a fun novelty and gave everyone plenty of opportunities for Instagram photos.

The Biggest Planning Challenge

Collecting money was the hardest part of organising the weekend. Some attendees needed a payment plan, so it was important to manage costs clearly and give everyone enough time to pay.

Shakaya and Aden’s Redland Bay Golf Club Wedding

 

Set against the beautiful lawns and gardens at Redland Bay Golf Club, high school sweethearts, Shakaya and Aden, celebrated their wedding day with a ceremony that was both relaxed and memorable. The venue is known for its beautiful outdoor wedding spaces and golf course views, making it a fitting backdrop for the couple’s wedding dreams.

One of the most delightful details of the ceremony was the live music. Musician Matty Ross sang “Still the One” as the page boys, flower girls, bridesmaids and then Shakaya, on the arm of her brother, made their way down the aisle. Having live music gave Shakaya the flexibility to time her entrance to a very specific point in the song, creating the beautiful wedding moment that she had envisioned.

The wedding party looked stunning in a modern palette of black, sage and soft green tones. The bridesmaids wore black eternity dresses, while the groomsmen were dressed in classic black suits with sage green ties. Aden stood out in a grey suit with a subtle hint of green, perfectly tying his look into the day’s colour story. Shakaya was absolutely radiant in a long white sparkly gown, finished with a floor-length veil and softly curled hair.

The styling at the ceremony brought everything together beautifully. Chairs were adorned with emerald green sashes and eucalyptus leaves, adding fresh texture and rich colour against the natural greens of the golf club surrounds. The overall effect was stunning, with every detail complementing the relaxed outdoor setting.

After the ceremony, Shakaya and Aden walked back down the aisle as newlyweds and were handed small mallets for one of the day’s most fun surprises. Instead of cutting a traditional cake, they smashed a mock wedding cake to reveal lollies hidden inside. It was a light-hearted and memorable moment that delighted guests, who then enjoyed the sweets while relaxing on the lawn at the golf club as family portraits were being taken.

Photographer: @bec_munro_photography
Celebrant: @cheryl_landsberry_marriage_cel
Venue: @redlandbayweddings
Content creator: @onyourdaybestie
Music: @mrentertainmentaus
Cake: @cakesmashbrisbane

A Gorgeous Winter Microwedding at The Lighthouse Restaurant, Cleveland Point

 On a clear winter afternoon, The Lighthouse Restaurant at Cleveland Point provided a beautiful backdrop for Richard and Kerrie’s intimate microwedding. With sweeping views across Moreton Bay and a charming gazebo setting, the venue perfectly suited their vision for an elegant, classic ceremony shared with close family.

The ceremony took place in the gazebo, where sparkling bay views framed the couple beautifully. A stunning arbour dressed in flowing white draping and rich burgundy florals added romance to the fresh sea air and created a memorable focal point for their vows.

Every detail reflected timeless style. Richard looked dapper in a smart suit with a crimson tie and matching rose boutonniere, while Kerrie was elegant in a long-sleeved gown with a lace bodice and sweeping train. Kerrie’s adult daughters wore burgundy wrap dresses as bridesmaids, and Richard’s adult daughters stood proudly as groomsmaids in matching multiway gowns.

The ladies’ soft curled upstyles complemented the romantic feel of the day. Kerrie’s granddaughter made a sweet flowergirl in soft pink, while her grandsons were adorable ring bearers in little suits. The bridal party arrived in style in a white stretch limousine.

Although the guest list was small, the emotion was immense. With only their nearest and dearest present, every word and glance felt deeply personal, creating a ceremony centred on love, family, and the joy of being together.

Afterwards, the group headed across the road to Cleveland Point Recreation Reserve for photos by the water. The bay views, foreshore, and lighthouse precinct offered a stunning setting for relaxed family portraits and elegant bridal images.

While photographs were underway, the Lighthouse staff transformed the ceremony space into a dinner setting with tables, chairs, and an outdoor heater.

The sweet details were beautifully planned too, with a decadent red velvet top tier and vanilla cupcakes topped with fresh berries and swirls of frosting.

Richard and Kerrie’s winter microwedding was a lovely reminder that weddings do not need to be grand in size to feel extraordinary. With the bay sparkling behind them and treasured moments shared with children and grandchildren, their day was intimate, elegant, and timelessly romantic.

Coordination: Pop Up Weddings Bayside

Photography: Romana Saeheng

Celebrant: Cheryl Landsberry

Venue: The Lighthouse Restaurant at Cleveland Point

Cake: Cakes by Simone

Hair and Makeup: An Eye for Style at Cleveland

Micro wedding ceremony and macro wedding party at Mount Coot-tha

 Paris and Connor wanted the best of both worlds for their wedding day. The pair decided on an intimate ceremony with just their immediate family in the Botanic Gardens, and celebrated with a huge party with all their extended family and friends at the Summit Restaurant, Mount Coot-tha afterwards.

The pair contacted the team at Elope Brisbane to book their ceremony, opting to DIY their styling, and select just celebrant and photographer for their ceremony package. On a gorgeous winter afternoon, we met the couple at the Brisbane Botanic Gardens. The garden ceremony was simple, quiet, and relaxed, with the couple’s vows to each other being the highlight. Afterwards, the occasion was captured in beautiful photos surrounded by nature.

Paris looked stunning in a strapless gown, with a pearl necklace and her hair swept up. Connor was very handsome in a charcoal suit and white shirt – relaxed with no tie. The bouquet and boutonniere featured bright pinks and oranges.  The pair couldn’t stop grinning throughout the day.

After the ceremony and photos, the group made their way up to the top of Mount Coot-tha to enjoy their reception dinner. The celebrations included a dance floor and a tiramisu tower.

 

Ceremony venue: Brisbane Botanic Gardens, Mount Coot-tha

Reception venue: The Summit, Mount Coot-tha

Coordination: Elope Brisbane

Photographer: Romana Saeheng

Celebrant: Cheryl Landsberry

DJ: G & M Events

Your Ceremony, Your Way: How your Celebrant Can Personalise Your Wedding Ceremony

 

One of the best things about planning your wedding ceremony in Australia is that you can tailor the ceremony to suit yourselves. A well-crafted ceremony should feel like you as a couple—your story, your style, and the atmosphere you want to create for the people gathered around you. Whether you are marrying by the bay, in a garden, on the beach, at a winery, or at one of the many beautiful venues across Brisbane, your ceremony can be tailored so it feels warm, genuine, and completely your own.

As a registered marriage celebrant in Brisbane, I can help shape both the practical details and the personal touches, so your ceremony runs smoothly and feels meaningful from beginning to end. Legally, in Australia, your civil celebrant must state three compulsory sentences. The couple must each state one sentence – “I ask everyone here to witness that I (full name) take you (full name) to be my lawful wedded wife/husband/partner for life.” Once those 5 sentences have been included, the remainder of the ceremony is absolutely customisable.

Housekeeping

Before the ceremony begins, as your celebrant, I can convey thoughtful housekeeping suggestions, which help set the tone for the wedding and ensure that the guests are fully present and in the moment. This might include a gentle reminder for guests to put their phones on silent, guidance about where to stand or sit, or a request for an unplugged ceremony so your guests can be fully engaged rather than watching through a screen. These small details can make a big difference to the atmosphere and help protect those special moments for your professional photographer and videographer.

Honouring Loved Ones Who Are No Longer Here

Weddings are joyful occasions, but they can also bring a quiet awareness of those you wish could be there. If you would like to acknowledge grandparents, parents, relatives, or dear friends who have passed away, this can be included in a gentle and respectful way. It might be a brief spoken remembrance during the ceremony, a moment of reflection, or words that recognise their love and influence in your lives. Perhaps you would like to place a single rose or a photo to a chair in the front row, or light a candle. These inclusions can be warm, tender, and beautifully woven into the ceremony in a way that feels right for you.

Including an Acknowledgement of Traditional Custodians

Many couples also choose to include an acknowledgement of the Traditional Custodians of the land on which their wedding is taking place. This can be a meaningful way to show respect and recognise the history and continuing connection of First Nations peoples to Country. If this is something that matters to you, I can help include it in a way that is sincere, appropriate, and aligned with the tone of your ceremony. And if you don’t want to include this option, that is totally fine too.

Celebrating Your Cultural Backgrounds

Your ceremony can also include cultural elements that reflect either or both of your backgrounds. That might mean incorporating a reading, blessing, ritual, music, language, or tradition that is significant to your family or heritage. For some couples, it is about preserving a cultural custom; for others, it is about blending traditions in a way that feels natural and inclusive. The goal is to create a ceremony that feels authentic and honours the people and stories that have shaped you.

Including family

Some couples like to honour their parents by giving them a meaningful role in the ceremony. This might include walking you down the aisle, or being an official witness who signs the marriage certificates.

Children can also be included in a beautiful and age-appropriate way, whether they are from a previous relationship or part of your family together. Giving them a small role in the ceremony can help them feel involved in the moment and included in the joining of the family. These touches can add warmth, significance, and a lovely sense of connection, especially when family is at the heart of your celebration.

Choosing the Vibe of Your Ceremony

One of the biggest decisions is how you want your ceremony to feel. Do you imagine something laid back and relaxed, or more formal and elegant? Would you like it to feel modern and contemporary, traditional and timeless, solemn and deeply heartfelt, or light and full of warmth and humour? There is no right or wrong answer. Some of the best ceremonies are a combination of all of these things, carefully balanced to suit the couple at the centre of them. The beauty of working with a celebrant who listens is that we can create a ceremony with exactly the right tone for you.

A Ceremony That Feels Like You

Your wedding ceremony is more than the legal part of the day. It is the moment you gather your favourite people together and mark the beginning of your marriage in a way that feels personal and memorable. If you are planning a wedding in the Redlands, I would love to help create a ceremony that includes the details that matter most to you. When your ceremony reflects who you are, it becomes something your guests will remember not just for how it looked, but for how it felt.

Cheryl Landsberry – marriage celebrant in the Redlands, Brisbane

Thanks to Michal, who inspired this article. Having grown up outside Australia, he was especially interested in how flexible and customisable Australian wedding ceremonies can be.

Redlands Celebrant: Why Choosing a Local Wedding Celebrant Matters

 If you are searching for a celebrant in the Redlands, choosing someone who truly knows the local area can make all the difference to your wedding day. As a celebrant who specialises in local weddings, I have had the pleasure of working with couples across some of the most beautiful bayside locations in the Redlands, helping create ceremonies that feel personal, relaxed, and perfectly suited to each setting.

In April alone, I celebrated weddings at The Lighthouse Restaurant in Cleveland, Raby Bay Foreshore Park in Cleveland, The Grand View Hotel in Cleveland, Cleveland Point Recreation Reserve, Cherbon Waters Wedding Gardens at Burbank, Redland Bay Golf Club, and the beaches of North Stradbroke Island. These locations each offer something unique, from sweeping waterfront views and heritage charm to relaxed garden settings and island beauty, giving couples wonderful options for a Redlands wedding close to home.

Other favourite local venues are Sirromet Wines at Mount Cotton, Sure Thing Chapel at Capalaba, Indigiscapes at Capalaba, and Rainforest Gardens at Mount Cotton.

During Covid, specialising in local Redlands weddings was a real bonus. While travel and movement were often uncertain, I was able to continue supporting couples in my own area without the added stress of travelling long distances. Being local meant I already knew the venues and the practical details that help a wedding day run smoothly.

That same local knowledge is especially valuable during Queensland weather events. When roads are affected or conditions are unpredictable, having a celebrant based in the Redlands can be a genuine advantage. I do not need to cross flooded rivers or travel from far outside the area, which gives couples added peace of mind when the forecast is less than ideal.

And now, during the fuel crisis, being a local celebrant is yet another practical benefit. Many Redlands wedding venues are so close that I could practically walk to them. For couples planning a local ceremony, that means less worry about travel delays, lower travel-related costs, and the confidence of working with someone who is already part of the community.

I have a home office at Birkdale, and we can meet in the evenings or on weekends to chat about your wedding plans and complete the Notice of Intended Marriage. A rehearsal is offered for local weddings.

If you are planning your wedding and looking for a celebrant in the Redlands, I would love to help you create a ceremony that reflects your story and makes the most of our beautiful local venues. From Cleveland Point to Redland Bay and North Stradbroke Island, local weddings offer beauty, convenience, and a wonderful sense of connection to the place you call home.

Cheryl Landsberry Redlands Marriage Celebrant

Mel & Josh Tie the Knot at Redland Bay Golf Club - A Jewel-Toned Celebration Full of Heart, Laughter, and Love

 Mel and Josh’s wedding was a memorable afternoon on the lawn at Redland Bay Golf Club. The colour palette was rich with jewel tones: the bridesmaids in striking emerald green, and florals in ruby red. The gents wore sharp navy suits, while Mel was radiant in her strapless white gown—classic, effortless, and every bit the star of the day.

In a modern twist, Josh and his groomsmen strolled down the aisle to GEED UP Grinspoon’s “Chemical Heart” by Bliss n Eso. They took their places under the arbour, then watched as the flowergirls skipped down the aisle, followed by the two bridesmaids. Mel made her entrance escorted by both her dad and her step dad—each named Peter, just to make things interesting. Auslan interpreter, Tanya, signed the song “Dreams” by Gabrielle with a moving interpretation.

The story of Mel and Josh’s meeting—courtesy of Plenty of Fish—naturally spun off a net full of hook, line, and sinker references. I made sure to add in just enough puns, steering clear of going overboard (boom tish!), and revelling in Josh’s love of dad jokes.
The vows were heartfelt and honest, and were the highlight of the ceremony. Mel not only made touching promises to Josh but also to his son, weaving their family together with words that resonated with everyone present. There was laughter, there were a few happy tears, and above all, there was a sense of two people affirming their life together—surrounded by those who love them.

The Auslan interpreters ensured all the guests were involved in the ceremony, and I really enjoyed working with these passionate professionals and appreciated them indulging my amateur Auslan attempts.

After the beautiful ceremony under the arbour, the couple and the bridal party zoomed off in golf carts for photos around the lush green golf course.

Here’s to Mel and Josh—may your days be as vibrant and full of heart as your wedding day.

Venue: @redlandbayweddings
Celebrant: @cheryl_landsberry_marriage_cel
Photographer: #Romana Saeheng
Styling: @beautifulillusionsevents
Cake: @cakesbysimone
Music: @mcgeeentertainment

Sunshine and Celebration: A Redland Bay Golf Club Wedding

After waking up to clouds and drizzle, the skies cleared just in time for Maddi and Michael’s afternoon wedding, flooding the lawn at Redland Bay Gofl Club with golden sunlight.

Guests turned as the bridesmaids arrived, looking lovely in dusty blue dresses. Their outfits perfectly complemented the floral arrangements in matching hues, which were created by bride, Maddi. The groomsmen wore elegant pale blue suits, while the groom stood out in a classic cream coloured suit with a cream and blue tie. All eyes were on the bride as she glided in wearing a white strapless gown and a beaming smile.

The anticipation built as the bride’s niece and nephew led the way, assisted in their task to sprinkle rose petals by their dad and uncle. After the bridesmaids walked in, Maddi made her entrance accompanied by both her mum and her dad. Musician, Kent Dustin, added to the atmosphere singing "Turning Page" by Sleeping at Last.

This Sunday afternoon wedding was the ultimate feel-good tale. The blend of the beautiful backdrop, pretty styling, adorable family moments, and joyful music created an atmosphere that will linger in the hearts of everyone present. For couples dreaming of an unforgettable celebration, this day was proof that sometimes, all you need is a little sunshine – and a lot of love.

Venue: Redland Bay Weddings

Photographer: Amy from Papillon Studio

Celebrant: Cheryl Landsberry - Marriage Celebrant

Musician: Kent Dustin

Wedding at Amity Point, North Stradbroke Island - An intimate celebration surrounded by family and nature.

 The Elope Stradbroke team headed across the bay for an afternoon at our local island paradise, the sun casting a golden glow, with a gentle breeze across the sparkling ocean.

Lizzy and Pete booked a beachside holiday cottage for themselves and their two small boys, inviting just their parents for a chilled and intimate wedding. The cottage, tucked away among palms and just steps from the water, became the heart of the preparations. Inside, Lizzy, her mum, and her mother-in-law were glammed up while the dads took charge of the kids on the lawn.

With the sun shining overhead, the Elope Stradbroke team got to work setting up a bamboo arbour under a shady palm. White florals were woven throughout, adding a fresh and classic touch to the scene. Lizzy’s bouquet echoed the theme—simple, and elegant.

The ceremony itself was a picture of warmth and simplicity. Lizzy walked down the lawn hand-in-hand with her dad, the soft grass beneath her feet. She wore a simple white fitted dress, which hugged her petite figure. Pete wore a classic light linen suit.

The vows were heartfelt but uncomplicated—just like the couple themselves. As the rings were exchanged, the boys excitedly blew bubbles, their laughter mingling with the sound of the waves.

After the “I dos”, the family enjoyed a photo shoot amongst the driftwood on the beach. But the adventure didn’t end there. After spotting a koala joey in a nearby gum tree, the couple headed to Point Lookout for a photo shoot against the spectacular ocean backdrop, celebrating with a mob of kangaroos lounging in the late afternoon sun. It was a perfect blend of celebration and nature, making the day even more memorable.

Looking back, the wedding at Amity Point was everything a chilled, intimate celebration should be. It was about family, love, and the island’s gentle beauty—no fuss or fanfare, just the kind of warmth you want to bottle up and keep forever.

Contact the Elope Stradbroke team for your dream island wedding.

Coordination: @Elope Stradbroke, Elope Brisbane

Photos: Romana Saeheng

Stradbroke Island Celebrant: Cheryl Landsberry - Marriage Celebrant

Cake: Cakes by Simone

HMUA: @Bohemian island collective

Flowers: @Capalaba Carnations