A rustic wedding at Kenilworth

Kenilworth is just a 30 minute, very beautiful drive from Montville so I was delighted to be asked to officiate at Andrew and Heidi's wedding at Kenilworth Homestead.  Andrew and Heidi have spent many relaxed weekends camping in the grounds here and so this is a special place for them.

They wanted a simple, relaxed and friendly ceremony under a gorgeous huge raintree by the cattle yards - actually in the middle of the yards.  Heavy rain the day before meant a last minute change of plans and the ceremony was held in a marquee beside the old barn where they had gathered their family and friends for  pre-ceremony drinks.

At the appointed time everyone wandered outside to the verandas and marquee and gathered for the ceremony.  Heidi looked beautiful in her strapless, beaded gown and both she and Andrew positively glowed with smiles that threatened to burst from their faces!

With many of the guests staying the night at the Homestead, and others staying just a short drive away, I can only imagine the joyful celebrations went on well into the night.  The old barn was beautifully decorated - the rustic timber walls and old tools set of the soft, gentle wedding decorations to perfection.

Intimate wedding in Secret's garden, Montville

The Queensland floods, meant that Steve and Abby's wedding became an intimate family affair - nevertheless I wanted to ensure it was to be a really special and memorable occasion for them.

The gardens at Secrets on the Lake, Montville are truly spectacular and amidst all the rain we have had lately, we awoke to a spectacular, blue sky, sunny day.  After wandering around the gardens the afternoon before we decided to make use of these wonderful decks - the views are spectacular and the surrounding streams and waterfalls give a calm, relaxing ambiance.
We held the ceremony out on the decks to make the most of the background and then proceeded tot he shady gazebo for to sign the Marriage Register and Certificates.

Steve, along with his Mum and Dad and young son Riley, enjoyed the sunshine on the decks as we waited for Abby and her parents to arrive.  When they did - it was worth the wait - Abby looked simply stunning in her gown with its 'olive' green sash that was to compliment the bridesmaids dresses.
Young Riley really enjoyed exploring each of the garden decks, the bubbling stream with its tiny fish and tadpoles and the waterfall.  He made his presence known, when right in the midst of Steve's vows he tumbled into a marsh garden right next to us - just doing a little more exploring.  It certainly gave Steve and Abby something to remember!  He picked himself up and was quite ready to present the rings just moments later.  What a boy!
Steve and Abby - I wish you all the best and can't wait to see some photographs of your special day and look forward to the time when you can celebrate your marriage and your bridesmaids get to wear their dresses.