A glorious day for a wedding at Flaxton Gardens, Montville

Tom and Gillian made a deep connection because they each shared a similar view for their future - and so they chose the lovely Flaxton Gardens, with it's magnificent view across the coast, right down to the ocean past Maroochydore, to celebrate their wedding.  The beauty of their chosen wedding ceremony location reflects the inner beauty created by their love for each other.
I really don't think I have ever seen a smile as broad as Thomas's when he first spied Gill in her beautiful ruched ivory gown as she stood at the top of the steps with her Dad, Max.  Gillian radiated love, joy and absolute certainty in the commitment she was making - and Tom gave it all right back to her.  What a delightful couple!

Tom's lovely daughter, Ariel, was a lovely bridesmaid, caring for the two delightful flower-girls.  It was also her duty to present the rings to Tom and Gill at the appropriate time - this she did with poise and grace - Well done Ariel!
Shelby, Gillian's Maid of Honour, presented a lovely reading that brought tears to many an eye.
And finally, amidst great applause, the Certificate of Marriage was presented.  Tom and Gill obviously appreciate and value the close family ties and many friendships they enjoy together.

As I write this they are celebrating their marriage at the home of Gill's parents in Maleny.  Tom & Gill - I wish you every happiness and great joy as you explore your beautiful view together.

A break from weddings in Montville

I had to share this photo I took using the camera on my phone.
I went down to Lake Baroon (aka Baroon Pocket Dam) early this morning for a couple of hours of kayaking - simply beautiful.  The early morning mists floating gently on the dark, still surface of the water and slowly, slowly lifting as the sun rose and warmed the air. As the mist and fog lifted the the surrounding trees and blue sky and fluffy clouds water were mirrored on the lake's surface.   It was a brisk 16C, but the paddling kept the body warm.

The wonderful Montville resorts of Narrows Escape and Secrets on the Lake both border on Lake Baroon - both places provide superb accommodation and lovely venues for a wedding ceremony.

Clovelly Estate, Montville - a joyous elopement

In the dappled shade of the ancient Jacaranda tree, Martin and Louise exchanged their vows in an intimate wedding ceremony in front of close friends, Analise, Jeff, Daniel and Alison. Their happiness was evident, firstly by the giggles emanating from within the cottage as the girls finished their preparations and once Louise appeared looking simply stunning in her strapless, ivory gown, both she and Martin wore smiles as wide as their faces would allow.  They certainly infected us all with their joy.
Clovelly Estate, Montville is a wonderfully romantic venue for an intimate wedding and its natural beauty was enhanced by lovely floral arrangements by Montville florist Mel of Flourish Design.

Martin and Louise's day was captured in photographs by the fabulous and fun to be around Jodi McDonald.

A Truly Spiritual Ceremony of Marriage

"I would rather spend one lifetime with you  then face all the ages of this world alone." ~ In my mind, this couple are the embodiment of the love shared between Aragorn and Arwen.
Caitlin and Shima chose a beautiful spot at Moffat Headland that is sacred to them. With the blue sky above and the rolling ocean below, nestled in their sacred grove of Pandanus, we celebrated their marriage.
The ceremony, that we created together, was quite free-flowing, but contained elements that held special meaning for Shima and Caitlin - from the beginning set up with the lighting of the candle and the presentation of the sword, their personal songs to each other at the exchange of rings and the finale as Caitlin sang her own beautiful composition "Love's Legacy". 

Even with the wee pause in proceedings, as Simon and Rosemary made a quick dash to retrieve the beautiful Claddagh rings from on the coffee table in the unit, was used as a special moment to reflect on our beautiful surroundings and the significance of the ritual being enacted!

The significance of the Claddagh Rings reflects Caitlins Irish heritage:

The hands are there for friendship

The heart is there for love

For loyalty throughout the year,

The crown is raised above.