An Australian Fall Wedding on a River Cruise

Location: Noosa River in Queensland, Australia
Setting: Restaurant and river cruise
Season: Fall
How long did the couple plan the event: 18 months
The number of guests: 65
Wedding theme/style: Minimal, chic and timeless, romantic garden themed.

Emma and Cole first met in a small country pub in rural Queensland, Australia, in 2019, and have been inseparable ever since. “Four years, a pandemic, a baby, an interstate move and a wedding later we wouldn’t have it any other way.” – Emma shares with Wed Vibes.

They chose to get married by the Noosa River, a place they first visited together and loved. Couple wanted a beautiful location where they could bring all their loved ones together, turning their wedding into a holiday for everyone.

They picked Joel and Courtney Films as their videographers because they liked how they show weddings in a very natural and beautiful way. Emma especially wanted her wedding captured on film and vintage super 8 footage, which she felt would make the memories last forever.

On the wedding day, Emma wore a gown she fell in love with at first sight. It was elegant, with sleeves, and she paired it with a low bun, pearl earrings, and a long veil. Her makeup was simple, focusing on a bronzed look with soft brown eyes and a pink nude lips.

“I had a small pendant made with a photo of my late Poppy to wrap around my bouquet so I knew he was there with me on my special day. I gifted one to my beautiful Ma as a surprise as well.” – Emma says.

Cole wore a classic black suit with a bow tie and black shoes by local brands. Complementing his bride, he chose a white rose as a boutonniere.

Their wedding was unique because it took place mid-morning, an unusual time for such events. It was held beside the river, with simple elegant decorations that highlighted the area’s natural beauty. They focused on soft white flowers for their decor. As they exchanged their vows, white petals were tossed into the air, adding to the magic of the moment when they kissed.

The reception took place at a restaurant by the river, where the decor featured a black and white color theme. Tables were set with white floral arrangements, which looked beautiful with the natural light coming in from the river. Interesting detail was a black covers for beer bottles to keep them in line with the elegant look of the setting.

Couple added a lot of personal touches to the day: photos of their beloved ones, album with wishes to newlyweds, cards and gifts. “Our son Banks was a huge part of the decision making for our day. A lot of the planning revolved around trying to make the day as meaningful as we could for him to look back on in the future.” – says Emma.

Traditionally, after their first dance, couple cut the cake: “I can’t forget to mention my wedding cake! It was a chocolate mud cake infused with Chambord raspberry liqueur, filled with chocolate ganache and vanilla buttercream icing, served with cream and fresh raspberries. I still have leftovers in my freezer that we plan on eating on our one year wedding anniversary.”

Emma and Cole took a walk by the river with their son before joining their guests on the cruise. This was a special time for them to enjoy a moment of calm together. Then they walked to a boat where everyone was waiting for them to start the evening party.

At the cocktail hour on the cruise, Emma, Cole, and their guests enjoyed refreshing drinks and casual conversations. Laughter and the sound of clinking glasses filled the air, with a backdrop of a soft sunset.

Advice from couple:

• Forget about everyone else’s expectations for your wedding. At the end of the day it’s about you as a couple so try to enjoy it and do whatever makes you happy.

• Also, don’t stay up until 3am the morning of steaming bridesmaid dresses like I did!