REAL WEDDING: Sam + Richard – Stonehurst Cedar Creek

Sam tells us she spent forever searching for a wedding venue like Stonehurst Cedar Creek – a family owned and operated vineyard and farm with cattle, deer, horses, stone buildings and 550 acres to play in, located just outside the Hunter Valley region.

“Our venue not only let us BYO catering but had no minimum guest numbers and allowed us to have everything in the one venue (including accommodation for our family who were travelling from overseas and interstate)” says Sam, adding that despite the 40 degree heatwave, it was the perfect day.

Captured by the epic Sheddie photographer Stories with Mel, the day looked like it was taken straight out of a fairytale, with twinkling fairy lights woven between a grove of tall trees that guests dined under. A true DIY effort, this couple really made the day their own, with Rich even carving his own wooden ring-holder and Sam handwriting their signage and putting together their bouquets.

Tell us about how you met and the proposal.

We met through Instagram while I was living and working in London and Rich was in Bristol. We lived four hours apart and saw each other every single weekend until moving to Australia. Rich proposed to me in Treasury Gardens (Melbourne) amongst the trees, after sharing our first live AFL game (go Bulldogs!).

What DIY projects did you do accomplish for the wedding?

Practically our whole wedding was DIY! Our favourite pieces were the ring box, welcome sign and willow chandelier that we used in our ceremony.

What sort of vibe were you aiming to create for the day?

We both wanted a woodland, nature theme and incorporated neutral tones and handmade wooden pieces with lots of greenery.

What traditions did you involve during your big day?

We didn’t see each other the whole day (which was harder than we thought!).

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

The day goes by so quickly so remember to enjoy every little moment, don’t sweat the small stuff and if you can, hire a videographer so that you have someone to capture the best day of your life from another perspective.

Any funny stories that surrounded your wedding?

We got married on a 40 degree day and the best man had trousers that were too tight (Rich’s cousin flew over from England and didn’t have time to try them on prior) so he had to move and pose without ripping his pants! It also started raining while we were having photos taken and my wedding dress ended up black from the knees down by the end of the night! Totally worth it for the memories.

Ceremony song?

Ed Sheeran – Tenerife Sea.

First dance song?

Boyce Avenue – Say You Won’t Let Go.

Credits: Photos Stories with Mel // Videographer Chris Windus Media // Ceremony and reception Stonehurst Cedar Creek // Catering The Pizza Guys // Cake Koala Vi Cakes // Bridal gown Jadore // Brides shoes Betts // Veil Datto Bridal // Crystal crown Crystal Eclipse Crowns // Bridesmaid dresses SiS Bridal // Bridesmaid gifts Le Rose // Grooms and groomsmen suits and ties Roger David // Hair and makeup Glow Hair & Makeup // Celebrant Spark Ceremonies // Furniture hire Crab Apple Vintage.

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