Mewburn Park Homestead is a historic VIC wedding venue that bride Giselle discovered just three months out from her big day. She made a ballsy decision to pull the pin on their original venue and, as she explains, never looked back.
“It was literally 20 minutes from me and I had never heard of it! But as soon as I got on their site I KNEW this was our wedding spot. It was a hidden gem.” Read on to find out more about their intimate, family-oriented day and check out some stunning snaps by Hannah Gilbert Photography.
Tell us about how you met and the proposal.
Andrew and I met like so many others, through friends at a party. We shared a kiss, he walked me home and I never bothered with him again. That was until a few years later we reconciled as friends and one thing led to another and we realised we kind of really loved each other.
Andrew’s proposal was a total surprise. A very unflattering surprise! I’d just finished having a shower, I went to walk to the room to get some clothes but right there in the doorway of our room was Andrew down on one knee with a box. And there is me straight out of the shower, sporting nothing but pimple cream. We both just laughed. I asked him what he was doing, was this a joke, also to stop it. Nope, wasn’t a joke. After backing away about two meters Andrew pulled me in and proposed. I said OK? Yes. Can I get dressed now?
Did you tackle much DIY for the day?
We tried to keep any DIY projects to a minimum as neither of us are very crafty, but one thing I did put together was a personalised selfie frame for our guests. I purchased the pre-made frame from TYPO online and then ordered a personalised metallic gold sticker on Etsy to fit at the bottom of the frame. I think altogether it only cost us between $50-$60.
What was your inspiration for the feel and look of the day?
Our inspiration for the wedding was really just us. We wanted to keep everything very personal and include our own styles and tastes into the little details with some added elegance. And when it comes to the vibe, think intimate, untraditional and just the best day ever?!
The colours mainly consisted of white, pink and metallics for decor. Plus greenery and quite monotone for attire. We put a lot of thought into the clothing of the day, focusing on texture in place of colours. Andrew wore a black velour jacket which set the tone for the boys in plain black and white and matching velvet ties. Our maid of honour wore a full length gold sequin gown and flower girl in a white sequin dress.
What traditions did you involve during your big day?
We aren’t massive traditionalists. But we did sleep at separate places the night before (but FaceTimed the morning of, with our kids as well). I wore white. We kept the ceremony very intimate and short but vows, rings and kisses included.
The speeches at the reception were made by both our parents and bridal/groomsmen and we shared a first dance. Although we did skip the cake cutting and went for a dessert table instead, no regrets either!
What advice would you give to other couples leading up to their big day?
I think a wedding is different for every couple BUT if you are like us, make sure you communicate with each other, share your ideas in the planning process and make sure you agree. It is a day for you both to celebrate your relationship and love so don’t forget about what your end game is.
Also on the day, step back and let others deal with any mishaps. Plan ahead and allocate jobs to people you can rely on and that understand if something isn’t quite right.
What does marriage mean to you?
To us marriage is a commitment to one another. It is to say, you are enough and you are in my life forever. It is special and sacred and was a way for us to celebrate all we have achieved together and all the things we have overcome as a team.
What was your favourite moment on the day?
It’s hard to pinpoint one moment but coming down the aisle was an amazing moment. Seeing all of our family supporting us together, when my brother walked me down the aisle and talked me through the nerves was very special to me and of course when I saw Andrew at the end of that walk. There is no feeling quite like it.
Any funny stories that surrounded your wedding?
After being announced as Mr and Mrs, we proceeded down the aisle hand-in-hand until I actually tripped and dropped the F-bomb right in front of half of our guests, sorry grandma. LUCKILY I was still holding Andrew’s hand so he kind of caught me from going face down. Also pretty lucky my family and friends are awesome and have a sense of humour. I will never forget the faces!
Ceremony song?
‘Give me your love’ – Pete Murray.
First dance song?
‘Say you won’t let go’ – James Arthur.
CREDITS: Photos Hannah Gilbert Photography // Videographer Marry Me Movies // Flowers Jen’s Flowers // Ceremony and reception Mewburn Park Homestead // Catering Duarts Food Cube // Bridal gown CoCo Melody // Brides shoes Boohoo // Bridesmaid dresses JJ’s House // Grooms suit The Iconic // Ties Mrs. Bowtie // Rings Prouds Jewellers and Michael Hill // Makeup Elle James Makeup Artist // Music Micka Harrington Music // Celebrant Jeff Hobbs.
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