A Dreamy Outdoor Wedding by the River in Western Australia

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Location: Matilda Bay Reserve, Perth, Australia
Setting: Outdoor
Wedding season: Fall
The number of guests: 140
How long did the couple plan the event: 10 months
Wedding theme/style: Romantic, elegant, classic with a touch of glam.

Brett and Rach’s love story began in October 2016 at an Oktoberfest event organized by their mutual friends. When Brett greeted Rach, she misunderstood him and replied with ‘Good, thanks’. Brett found her cute, while Rach thought he was polite and mature. Despite being busy with their friends, Brett couldn’t help but admire Rach’s green eyes and outgoing nature. The night ended with Brett teaching Rach how to DJ and complimenting her beauty.

They didn’t meet again until Australia Day in January 2017 when Rach’s friends convinced her to attend one of Brett’s boat parties, despite her being on crutches due to a netball injury. Throughout the day, Brett showed his gentlemanly side by taking care of Rach and carrying her on and off the boat. The next day, Brett offered to help Rach move house and invited her over for dinner, where he gave her roses and a kiss on the cheek. Sadly, Brett spent several hours making a lamb roast and remembered Rach didn’t eat red meat! They enjoyed Uber Eats and a movie.

Their connection grew quickly, and within a year, Rach moved in with Brett, breaking the “no pets” rule to adopt their first puppy, Arnie, followed by Queenie. They love outdoor activities like hiking, snowboarding/skiing, jet skiing, boating, and wining and dining with friends at the beach on Wedge Island.

During their annual trip to Yallingup, Brett planned to propose to Rach along the captivating cape-to-cape trail. However, Rach’s stubbornness led her to continue walking until a snake halted her steps. Startled, she screamed while Brett hid the ring and rushed to her side. Brett carried Rach on his back until they completed the trail. On their last evening, Brett convinced Rach to go on a bush walk to Torpedo Rocks. As they admired the sunset, Brett revealed a stunning custom-made ring and asked the long-awaited question. Rach joyfully said “YES,” marking the beginning of their journey as an engaged couple.

On Rach’s wedding morning, she was surrounded by her supportive bridesmaids and loving family, creating a beautiful and memorable start to her special day. She opted for a side-part hairstyle with stunning soft glam waves expertly crafted by Anmar Sahar. For her makeup, Connor Adams created a soft glam look using nude and champagne tones that perfectly complemented the undertones of her gown. The result was a radiant and enchanting bride ready to walk down the aisle.

Rach’s choice for her wedding dress was a custom-made creation by Pallas Couture, designed to capture a blend of classic and modern elements. Inspired by a traditional silhouette, her gown featured a contemporary twist. The sheer design boasted multiple layers of white and champagne organza, topped with a final layer of sparkling white tulle. Delicate white flowers and shimmering beadwork adorned the dress, creating a luminous and ethereal effect. Rach aimed for a combination of elegance, timelessness, and comfort, resulting in a refined and whimsical gown.

Brett’s wedding morning was a picture-perfect scene as he donned his suit and engaged in lively conversation with his groomsmen. Anticipation bubbled within him as he eagerly awaited the moment he would catch Rach’s first glimpse in her stunning wedding dress. The air was filled with excitement, and Brett’s heart raced with joyous anticipation, knowing that this would be a precious memory.

With a shared love for the great outdoors and a deep appreciation for natural beauty, Brett and Rach were captivated by incorporating water’s serene surroundings and stunning sunsets into their wedding day. After Brett proposed on the picturesque Torpedo rocks, surrounded by the tranquil waters and a breathtaking sunset, it only felt right to seek a similar backdrop for their special celebration.

The couple often stumbled upon Matilda Bay Reserve during their boating escapades along the Swan River, instantly falling in love with its picturesque location. An autumn afternoon stroll along the riverbank at Matilda Bay solidified their vision as the sun’s radiant reflection danced upon the glassy water, the lush greenery and majestic trees enveloping them with an enchanting ambiance. Inspired by this idyllic setting, they knew they had found the perfect place for a romantic waterfront ceremony, followed by a marquee reception that would open up to a deck offering breathtaking views of the river, the setting sun, the moon, and the shimmering city lights.

Rach and Brett share: “For us, the venue was special. Exchanging vows and becoming husband and wife surrounded by insanely stunning florals, the sparkling water, sunshine, greenery, trees, and rose petals lined the aisle felt like a dream. It was so beautiful and romantic. The florals/styling was stunning, our florist from Signature Flower Design was so passionate and creative and worked with us to achieve our vision.”

Surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the area, eager anticipation filled the air as everyone eagerly awaited the bride’s grand entrance, signaling the start of the enchanting ceremony. The picturesque setting provided the perfect backdrop for this special moment, adding a touch of magic and romance.

As Brett stood at the end of the aisle, his heart skipped a beat as he caught sight of Rach in her breathtaking gown, gracefully making her way towards him. The sun’s soft rays enveloped her, causing her dress to shimmer like a thousand stars, casting a spellbinding glow upon the entire ceremony. The moment was truly magical, etching an everlasting memory in their hearts.

It was important for Rach and Brett to have the right combo of romantic, classic, beautiful, meaningful, personal, and fun. They put a lot of time and love into writing their vows and included ninja vows in addition. The ninja vows involved them writing three vows for the other person to read and promise.

What Brett wrote for Rach to read/promise:

1. I promise I won’t ask for your opinion about what to wear and choose a totally different option anyway.

2. I promise not to change the plans from having breakfast to a grueling long walk and expect you not to be hangry.

3. I promise to believe in myself as much as you believe in me and trust that my best is good enough.

What Rach wrote for Brett to read/promise:

1. I promise I will refrain from wiping my fingers on the couch pillows after I eat.

2. I promise I will answer your questions with an actual answer instead of “mmm”.

3. I promise to love myself as much as you love me.

An incredibly skilled photographer, Sarah Tonkin, graced the occasion, ensuring every precious moment was artfully captured. With an impeccable ability to encapsulate the couple’s deep love and affection for one another, Sarah’s photographs became a testament to their bond. Each image portrayed the enchanting ambiance of the day, preserving the romantic essence in every frame. Sarah’s talent and expertise brought an invaluable touch to their wedding, resulting in a collection of stunning photographs that would forever evoke the cherished memories of their special day.

The wedding stylist from Eventique helped create a stunning atmosphere for Brett and Rach’s special day. They envisioned a white and clear marquee that opened onto a deck overlooking the water, blending the outside and inside elements seamlessly.

Timber and brushed gold accents added a touch of elegance, while round and arch shapes were incorporated throughout the styling, including an arch welcome sign and a large round floral feature framing a concrete grazing table. The floral arrangements by Signature Floral Design featured greenery, white roses, and a variety of textured florals in creamy, nude, champagne, and soft pink tones. To create a magical ambiance, a dance floor was set up under the stars with fairy lights and festoon lighting above. And to satisfy their love for seafood, an Oyster shucker was set up by the water.

To ensure everyone could dance the night away with comfort, a delightful touch awaited the guests on the dance floor – a box of white flip-flops lovingly labeled “A little treat for your dancing feet.” This thoughtful gesture encouraged everyone to kick off their formal shoes and join the celebration, allowing them to groove and twirl with joy while keeping their feet happy and carefree.

To add a touch of playful delight to the celebration, a photobooth was set up for guests to enjoy and capture moments of joy. Charming little bottles of limoncello were prepared as distinctive and heartfelt favors in a thoughtful tribute to Rach’s Italian background. Additionally, the couple curated two signature cocktails to be served, each with its special significance. One cocktail paid homage to Brett’s beloved location, ‘Wedge Island,’ while the other was a delightful fusion reminiscent of the Amaretto Sour, a drink that held a special place in the couple’s hearts as they enjoyed it during one of their earliest dates. As each bridal party duo made their entrance, a unique song reflected their journey.

The celebration held an exceptional place in Rach and Brett’s hearts as they were enveloped by every guest’s love and heartfelt wishes. Carefully chosen individual and meaningful songs made every moment even more memorable. For those who delivered speeches, a heartfelt tune accompanied their words, adding an extra layer of sentiment and personal touch to the occasion.

Rach and Brett expressed their deep gratitude and joy as they stood before their loved ones, delivering heartfelt speeches and toasts, creating an unforgettable experience filled with love and excitement.

The reception carried on with heartfelt dances shared between the couple and their loved ones, creating even more touching moments to cherish.

Rach and Brett’s wedding was filled with endless joy and unforgettable moments. The couple’s loved ones celebrated their love with pure excitement, from heartfelt speeches and toasts to non-stop dancing. A talented photographer, Sarah Tonkin, captured every precious moment of happiness for eternity.

The wedding of Brett and Rach was beautifully preserved on video by The Auburn Hour Films led by Natalie Hind. Every precious moment was captured in all its glory, from a picturesque ceremony to a lively celebration at Matilda Bay Reserve.

Advice from the couple:

• Take your time when planning your special day, relax, and have fun with the process as it is a special time. Find vendors that you click with and are on the same page as you, and make sure the day is a true reflection of both of you. Very cliché but very important, soak up every moment as it is such an amazing day and is over in a flash. You’ll wish you could wake up and do it all over again!