As soon as Gabby and Lewy heard rumours one of their favourite country NSW venues was opening up their doors to weddings, they immediately cancelled their existing venue and secured a date at Mayfield.

Take a peek at these images by Henry Paul and see why this couple was so excited to re-locate.

Tell us about how you met and the proposal?

We both knew of each other as we were from a small town, however we first really met on the dance floor at the Royal in Orange. I (Gabby) had a creepy guy trying to hit on me and I wasn’t interested. Lewy came to my aid and pretended to be my husband in order to scare the guy off.

We spoke on and off for quite a few months and soon realised we really liked each other! We’d talked about getting married and lots about the future but I had no idea it was happening. It was my birthday on the 3rd of January – a beautiful summer day. Lewy suggested we got to Flat Rock near O’Connell in the morning for a sunbake and swim. It felt like we spent two minutes on the rocks before he said it was time to go for lunch.

I followed him to the car and he opened the boot and was putting things in and then he called me. When I turned around he was on one knee in the dirt.

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

For my wedding dress I wanted something relaxed with bohemian type vibes… we wanted everyone in the bridal party to be comfortable. We didn’t really have a theme – we just wanted it to feel like a big family dinner.

What traditions did you involve during your big day?

I didn’t see Lewy until the ceremony, and my Dad gave me away.

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

The day goes so fast so make sure you eat when you can! If things get stressful, remember why you’re there and that’s the only real thing that matters.

What does marriage mean to you?

Happiest life ever, spending it with my best friend.

What was your favourite moment on your wedding day?

The first moment when Lewy and I saw each other and he said “You really showed up!”.

Any funny moments on the day that you remember? 

I was so nervous before walking down the aisle and as per usual had to do a nervous wee. But of course we were in the garden and the only available area was a bush (sorry Mayfield!) so I popped a squat with half my bridesmaids holding my dress and the other half snickering in disgust!

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

We had put down a deposit at a different venue but had been to Mayfield previously. So when we found out that they were starting to host weddings, we quickly locked it in and cancelled the other reservation. Best decision ever!

Ceremony song?

‘Broken Vessels (Amazing Grace)’ by Hillsong, instrumental version.

First dance song?

‘Perfect’ by Ed Sheeran.

CREDITS: Photos Henry Paul Photography // Flowers Stylish Scents Florist // Ceremony, reception and catering Mayfield // Stationery Vistaprint // Bridal gown Hope and Page // Brides shoes and bridesmaid dresses ASOS // Groom and groomsmen suits Connor // Rings Angus & Coote // Hair Lucy’s // Makeup Haley Milne // Music Neil Gill and Band // Celebrant Vince Harris.

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