We reckon most of us go through what bride Schedeen did: an initial wtf-do-I-want-this-wedding-to-be moment. With all the different styling paths to head down via social media, it’s hard to discern if you’re a country/rustic/modern/boho/minimalist/maximalist kind of person. You might be none or all of the above to, just to compound the confusion.
Which is why picking an amazing unique wedding venue like Montrose Berry Farm helps take the edge off this side of the planning process. After some indecision, bride Schedeen settled on a minimal, luxe boho vibe for her and Dave’s party at this Southern Highlands wedding venue. With plenty of DIY elements, a stunning Karen Willis Holmes gown and an amazing wild bouquet thrown in for good measure, it was a picture-perfect day happily shared with their favourite people.
Tell us about how you met and the proposal?
We officially met in our early 20’s during a picnic with friends in Newtown park. We hit it off instantly. Five years later to the day, he took me back to the same park for a picnic to celebrate.
After a few hours, he built up the courage, gave me the most wonderful speech and got down on one knee in front of everyone (including their dogs). I’ve never cried so hard in my life!
Did you guys tackle any DIY projects for the wedding?
I designed and printed our invitations, envelopes, seating chart, table numbers and bonbonniere sign. Our lovely stylist handmade our reception tables, outdoor signage, some of the outdoor seating, as well as buying all of our decorative flowers from the flower market.
I couldn’t find the right coloured napkins I had in my head, so my friend’s beautiful mother Terri handmade them herself. We also called upon some awesome friends to take on the roles of DJ, MC, cake maker and hairstylist. It was all hands on deck!
What sort of vibe were you guys aiming to create for the day?
I wasn’t sure what I wanted in the beginning, I just knew a lot of what I didn’t like. As I worked through and refined my references with my stylist we landed on a minimal, luxe boho vibe, with the plan to incorporate dark wood grains, wild flowers, splashes of velvet and moody lighting/candles!
What traditions did you involve during your big day?
Very little – we didn’t have a bridal party, my mother walked me down the aisle, we decided against a first dance, we woke up together on our wedding morning… one of the only traditions we included was the garter/bouquet toss!
What advice would you give to other couples leading up to their big day?
Just keep it simple and true to you and your partner. Don’t buy into the traditions and wedding pressure – at the end of the day it is a celebration of your love.
What does marriage mean to you?
It means choosing each other, each and every day. It’s about backing and supporting each other – working as a team. It means always having your best friend by your side.
What was your favourite moment on your wedding day?
The ceremony – seeing the way my husband looked at me, his vows and his tears – it was more perfect than anything I’d ever imagined. The rest of the day didn’t even matter.
Ceremony song? Amy Shark’s ‘Adore’ (acoustic).
First dance song? We chose to forgo the traditional first dance!
CREDITS: Photos The Evoke Company // Flowers Little Bird Bloom // Ceremony and reception Montrose Berry Farm // Catering Chef in Your Kitchen // Styling Yellow Brick Interiors // Bridal gown Karen Willis Holmes // Brides shoes Verali Shoes // Grooms suit Ted Baker // Rings Chilton’s Antiques, Michael Hill and Mens Rings Online // Makeup Bec Garozzo Makeup Artist // Music Old Mates // Celebrant Creative Celebrations by Mary Dorahy.
The top five wedding styling and floral trends for 2019? Right here.
