High school sweethearts Jenaya and Stefan planning the ultimate VIC wedding in the backyard of Stefan’s parent’s property.

“We always wanted a cocktail vibe, where people could relax, enjoy themselves and with no real venue ‘rules'”, said Jenaya who credits their wedding planner Rye Studio and mobile bar Cocktails 2 U with helping to bring together a celebration that was exactly that.

Captured by Lisa Nardella and McQuilton Productions (video below) you can peruse through all the details of their magical day here (and take some notes for your own nuptials).

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How did you and Stefan meet? High school sweethearts.

The proposal: Paradise Falls in VIC on a weekend away camping, a lovely surprise. I (Jenaya) hoped that it was coming! Haha.

Wedding venue: We had a venue booked for November 2021, but had to postpone. We ALWAYS wanted a garden wedding and after our postponement, Stefan’s beautiful parents offered to host it at their property.

We always wanted a cocktail vibe, where people could relax, enjoy themselves and with no real venue “rules”. We are super chilled people so wanted our guests to feel this in our wedding.

Wedding vibe: Garden vibes! Classy and timeless! We wanted our guests to have FUN!

Traditions: adopted, adapted or ditched? We ditched the bridal bouquet toss and the garter! 

The outfit/s: Stefan was always set on a black and white tux. It was classy and suited all the boys perfectly! My dress… I just knew as soon as I tried it on. It was the fifth bridal store we had booked in to go to. My sister cried when I walked out and that was a definite sign! We both were COMFY and felt magical on the day.

Hit or (near) miss: My phone was running hot the day before with about 15 guests catching Covid or in lockdown! The bridal cars I booked two years in advance in accidents, our singer caught Covid the night before the wedding. I’m smiling typing this now… because it honestly didn’t matter in the end!

Standout vendors:

• Rye Studio. Our wedding planner was AMAZING! She made everything so effortless and assisted us from the lead up to on the day… They styled our whole wedding, as well as signage and invites for both dates. Honestly invaluable.
• Cocktails 2 U. COCKTAILS! All night long haha they were such a hit!
• Lisa Nardella and McQuilton Productions. Having an epic photographer and videographer was the best decision we made. So many beautiful memories captured.
  

Soundtrack: Aisle song: “I Get To Love You”, by Ruelle (cover). Recessional: “Two Strong Hearts”, by John Farnham (cover). First dance: “I Knew I Loved You”, by Savage Garden (cover). Party starter: “Shots”, by LMFAO.

Budget: We didn’t have a budget but tried to do the things we had our hearts set on and envisioned for our special day. It surprised me that it was much the same if not more to have a wedding on a private property. Our total was around 35k.

Words of wedding wisdom: Do what makes you happy! Don’t stress about the little things, or the weather! It’s honestly the most magical day and the happiest day of your life. Everything falls into place perfectly on the day and exactly how it should be! Remember why you’re there – you’re with the love of your life!

I’ll always remember… Walking out to my dad for his “first look” and he instantly cried and told me how proud he was of me . My mum passed away when I was 14, so our dad is the absolute pinnacle of what a father should be. Very special.

The future: We are looking forward to being happy, laughing and making memories together, starting a family. Just honestly being together and being married to your best friend is pretty special.

CREDITS: Photos Lisa Nardella // Video McQuilton Productions // Celebrant Michelle Bear // Venue private property //  Florist Twigs and Hynes // Catering The Woolshed // Cake and favours Two Little Bakers and Desserts // Styling, planning and stationery Rye Studio // Bridal gown Kyha Studios // Bride’s shoes Princess Polly // Veil Michele’s Bridal // Accessories Lovisa // Bridesmaid dresses Tania Olsen // Bridesmaid gifts Blizzards Fine Jewellers // Groom and groomsmen suits and ties Joe Paul Menswear // Groomsmen gifts Etsy // Rings BLT Jewellery // Hair Hair by Lyana // Makeup Luxe Beauty and Makeup Co // Music DJ Masters // Transport Exoticar // Mobile bar Cocktails 2 U // Neon signs Light Hearted Designs // Furniture and marquee hire Bang Event Co // Furniture hire Bentley and Bobbi.

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