It’s hard to sum up this Byron Bay wedding in words. A former wedding planner and now one of Sydney’s best wedding celebrants, bride Tamara had every detail covered. From handwritten place cards and monogrammed bridesmaids gifts to live music, abundant florals and cocktails. there was no doubt this celebration was going to be one of epic proportions.
Held at Three Blue Ducks (one of our fave Byron Bay wedding venues) and captured by Alex Marks (photos) and The Story of Us (video), you can check out the entire shebang below.
Tell us about how you met and the proposal?
We met at our local pub in uni and got introduced by a mutual friend (who ended up being our MC for the wedding). We were young and uninhibited and fell hard and fast.
After just buying our first home, Howie told a fib by saying he received a work bonus that was a night in a hotel and dinner for two at Mr Wong. It was all a ploy for getting me into the city without any suspicion. When the elevator opened at the penthouse, I knew something was up. We drank champagne all night.
Was there a sort of styling vibe or theme you were hoping to create for the day?
Country meets the coast.
What traditions did you involve?
We found out along the way that most traditions we chose to ditch, but there were ones we thought “you only do it once”. These included having Dad walk me down the aisle, tossing the bouquet and a first dance.
Is there any advice you’d give to other couples leading up to their wedding?
Enjoy the planning, you’ll miss it like crazy when it’s done. And use the excuse to get healthy. The extra motivation will change your life. Howie lost 20 kgs in the lead up and has continued his healthy lifestyle since. Oh, and if you book a venue with noise restrictions, arrange an after-party!
What does marriage mean to you?
So much. We both value it greatly and believe in its purpose. It’s about unconditional support and acceptance and sharing your life with someone.
What was your favourite moment on your wedding day?
The whole ceremony experience and letting our hair down at the after-party.
And having all our family and friends travel to Byron for the weekend.
Ceremony song?
‘XO’ – Beyoncé (John Mayer cover).
First dance song?
‘How Will I Know’ – Whitney Houston (Sam Smith cover).
CREDITS: Photos Alex Marks Photography // Videographer and stationery The Story of Us // Flowers The Flower Bar Bangalow // Ceremony The Farm Byron Bay // Reception, catering and cake Three Blue Ducks // After-party Miss Margarita // Styling Frank & Joy and North Coast Events // Bridal gown and veil Helen Rodrigues // Brides shoes Tony Bianco // Accessories By Charlotte and Sarah & Sebastian // Bridesmaid dresses Camilla and Marc // Bridesmaid gifts // Sarah & Sebastian and Jasmin and Will // Groom and groomsmen suits and ties Ben Sherman // Groomsmen gifts MVMT // Hair Jarrah Hustler // Makeup Alexis Mahoney // Music Lisa Hunt // Celebrant Claire Belford // Transport My Sports Car // Brides accommodation Bask & Stow // Grooms accommodation Byron Luxury Beach Houses
