This fabulous couple came to me with a simple wish list: to create something beautiful, traditional, but with a relaxed feel and some lighthearted moments, and that's exactly what we did!

On their special day, I arrived at the gorgeous Pennyhill Park and settled into the space.  Initially, we were due to be outside in the Pavilion for a lovely outdoor celebration, but as we approached the ceremony start time, the rain that was forecast came down hard, and so we were grateful for the beautiful indoor setup.

I checked in with the groom and the photographer, and the couple's toastmaster, and then headed up to see the bridal party.  Having time to run through things with everyone was lovely, and it certainly put the couple at ease. Noting that there were two people accompanying the bride into the ceremony, I realised quickly that the aisle was not wide enough, so I set about moving chairs across and widening the space for them to enter smoothly.

We seated guests, and I made sure everyone was relaxed and ready to welcome the bride.  As the music began, and the couple's daughters joined us, they were a vision in long navy dresses and both full of smiles and clearly excited about what was about to happen.  It was then time for the bride, her very proud dad, and her son to enter, and as soon as she came into view, the groom was immediately emotional, and it was clear from her face too, that she couldn't wait to be with him.  She looked sensational, and with the bridal party all settled, we asked guests to be seated, and the couple moved into their positions facing guests, nestled closely in together, and we were ready to begin.

I love to welcome a couple into their ceremony, and to talk about why we are all there, and celebrating together, and we asked guests to make promises to the couple, which instantly connected them all to what was happening.  

I spoke about what marriage means, talked about love, their connection, and how they are ready for this next phase in their lives.

By the time we reached their vows, everyone was truly invested in this ceremony, and all were rooting for the couple.

They shared their words with one another, and we asked the groom's father to join us with the rings and I am certain the photographer captured some really lovely moments during this time, as he was a really lovely character.

The couple then signed their wedding day certificate with their mums as witnesses, so both sets of parents were all involved, and it was then time to present them back to their nearest and dearest.  As they heard my closing words, the cheers went up, the music began, and this couple danced their way back down the aisle to loud applause.

Then, with the skies clear for a brief moment, they had a brilliant confetti throw outside, before heading back into the hotel and round to the reception bar before their wedding breakfast and evening celebrations.

It was a beautiful way to end a lovely ceremony, and I am absolutely thrilled for them both and very honoured to have been able to help them celebrate.

Congrats to Matt & Michelle, and I wish you both all the love and happiness for your future together.

Jenny

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