After Jay’s thoughtful and elaborate proposal (way to put a simple ‘kneel down on one knee’ to shame!), it seemed inevitable this pair would go on to find their perfect Southern Highlands wedding venue – Mali Brae Farm. Here, they celebrated their love with a relaxed, sit-down dinner inside the property’s purpose-built wedding barn before hitting the dance floor for the rest of the night. Beautifully captured by Across The Forest (who also do some epic hand-painted stationery, we should add), we reckon you’re going to enjoy this sunny celebration.

Tell us about how you met and the proposal?

We met at a party of a mutual friends. As for the proposal, it was coming up to our nine year anniversary. One morning as I was leaving for work I found an interestingly shaped box at my front door. The box was filled with puzzle pieces with no indication of who it was from or what it was for. I assumed it was from Jay, however he denied it so I didn’t think much of it.

More presents continues to arrive at my door over the next few days, each in a uniquely shaped box. By now I was certain these boxes were from Jay. Each of these custom made boxes had a word printed on the inside which coincided with the present within. For example, the first box had the word ‘connection’ with a puzzle inside. The presents continued to come… By the sixth present I had discovered the boxes all fit together to make a love heart shape. The eighth present with the word ‘adventure ‘was a weekend away to the Hunter Valley leaving the following day.

On the way to the Hunter Valley, Jay decided to take a detour to Sackville on the Hawkesbury river. This special location means a lot to me as I spent a lot of my childhood camping and water skiing with family and friends at this spot. It was here Jay gave me the last box. Shaped like a diamond, the final piece fit right in the centre of the heart. I opened the box to see the word ‘commitment’ and a ring. Taking the ring out of the box, he got down on one knee and asked me to marry him.

What sort of feel were you guys hoping to create for the wedding?

Country/rustic and a little of a vintage vibe.

Any advice you’d give to other couples leading up to their big day?

Try to not let anyone’s opinions change what you as a couple want. Remember it is also the groom’s special day so get him involved. Remember the day is about love and a celebration of your love for one another. Nothing else matters. Have fun, enjoy it and make sure you take a moment together on the wedding day to really appreciate each other and the day.

What does marriage mean to you?

Marriage is a promise of love and commitment for the rest of our lives. It is the beginning of a new chapter in friendship, love and a declaration that we will support each other and love each other no matter what.

What was your favourite moment on your wedding day?

My favourite moment was walking down the aisle and noticing Jay shedding a tear. Jay isn’t typically one to display his emotions, so to see him overwhelmed with emotion made it that much more special. Jay’s favourite moment was also watching me come down the aisle and the father-of-the-bride speech.

How did you find your venue and was the process difficult for you?

WedShed! We thought it was going to be a hard process, thinking we may not find what we are looking for after viewing a few venues. However, walking into Mali Brae made our decision easy. We loved it at first sight and had to get married there.

Ceremony song?

Canon by Pachelbel (processionals), Annie’s Song by John Dever (signing of papers) and Happy Together by The Turtles (recessionals), performed by Clear Strings.

First dance song?

Perfect by Ed Sheeran, performed by Jack Rose.

CREDITS: Photos Across The Forest // Video Way Up High Films // Ceremony and reception Mali Brae Farm //  Catering Violets and Vinegar // Celebrant Alexandra Lollback // Flowers and styling Flowers in the Woods // Bridal gown Wilderly Bride // Brides shoes Betts // Hair piece Windsor Bridal Jewellery // Rings Midas Jewellery Miranda and The Gentleman’s Smith // Grooms suit River Island // Grooms watch Vincero Watches // Grooms shoes Windsor Smith // Hair and makeup Kristy’s Glam on the Go // Music Clear Strings and Jack Rose.  

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