Weddings can be a lot of work, especially if you decide to travel down the DIY path. That said, we’ve never heard a couple say it wasn’t worth it – and Leah and Dan are no exception.

Married at Wollombi Barnstay just outside the Hunter Valley region, these two had some grade A vendors involved – Daniel Ferris Photography and Steff Matheson Makeup Artist to name a couple.  But other than these gems, everything was pretty much DIY.

The flowers, tables, signage, succulent wedding favours and antipasto spread were all organised by Leah and Dan – Leah’s brother even brewed their beer. Our favourite personal touch however were the vows which they wrote themselves (and if you want some tips on how to write your own, simply click here).

Tell us about how you met and the proposal?

Our first official date was a picnic on the cliff top of North Avoca where we chatted until the early hours of the morning.

Dan proposed at a beautiful spot called Haycock Point, just south of Pambula, when we were on a mini holiday on the south coast of NSW. We’d just had the best day exploring and bush walking when he popped down on one knee and asked. I was very surprised and couldn’t believe how well he’d hidden the ring from me the whole trip!

What was sort of vibe were you hoping to bring to the day? 

We really wanted a relaxed-style wedding with the Australian landscape as our backdrop, surrounded by our dearest family and friends. It turned out just how we had dreamed.

What advice would you give to other couples leading up to their big day?

Stay true to yourself and make it want you want it. Venue choice was really important for us to give the whole day the right kind of vibe, so I guess make sure you love your venue. Take your time in planning so you don’t feel rushed at the end. And on the day, make sure you take at least one moment to whisk your husband/wife aside and stand back and admire what you have achieved together. It really is the best day of your life.

What does marriage mean to you?

It is offering your full love, support and commitment to a person who makes you truly happy.

What was your favourite moment on your wedding day?

Leah: After cake was served, Dan and I stepped outside the marquee to enjoy our cake together with a little privacy. It was so lovely to step back and watch all of our closest friends and family on the dance floor and getting along so well. The moon was bright above us and the night was just perfect.

Daniel: To see Leah’s father Brian step back in time to his youth and bust out a tune with the awesome band, while her mum tore up the dance floor, that was pretty special to see that there was still a deep love for one another after many, many years together.

Any funny stories that surrounded your wedding?

I think that there are always moments that at the time were quite stressful but in the aftermath, you can laugh, e.g. we bought helium foil balloons saying “LOVE” not once but three times and they all either deflated or popped. I would advise people not to bother with these!

Also, a number of friends and extended family tried to bribe the band with an extra $200 cash to keep the party going well into the early morning. It was clear everyone was really enjoying themselves.

Ceremony song?

Bloom by the Paper Kites.

CREDITS: Photos Daniel Ferris Photography // Ceremony and reception Wollombi Barnstay // Catering This Is Common Ground // Styling Crab Apple Vintage // Bridal gown Bohemian Brides // Brides shoes Tony Bianco // Bridesmaid dresses Arnhem Clothing // Groom and groomsmen suits Kenji // Grooms shoes Blaq // Stationery Honest Paper // Hair Empire Artistries // Makeup Steff Matheson Makeup Artist // Music Soultraders // Celebrant Graham Crossing.