Cayce and Damien spent treasured hours working on DIY projects together for their handmade wedding. The end result is full of vintage charm, with pretty silk posies, a scenic coastal ceremony, eclectic reception styling and even a soft serve ice cream van for dessert. We just love their idea of a donut pinata filled with messages from guests, ready to be popped on their first anniversary!
The Planning Experience
“We gave ourselves 21 months which allowed us to go at our own pace. We were very organised and everything was ready a few months before the big day. One of my favourite memories was going to wedding fairs with my family. We’re very close – they were a big part of my experience and their support meant a lot to me. Wedding planning can be overwhelming at times, but with a good support system and some laughs in between you will come out the other side!”
Finding the Dress
“I had the traditional bride experience with my mum and sisters in regards to trying on dresses. I tried on a lot of dresses in different styles, and though they were all beautiful, none of them felt very ‘me’. But I’m so glad we had that experience as it was very touching. I ended up finding my dress online – as soon as I saw it I fell in love and knew it was the one!”
Reception Styling
“I’ve always loved the School of Arts building and the history behind it. When we first got engaged I commented to Damien that it would be my perfect venue if they allowed wedding receptions. To my delight, some quick researching told me that they did, and we booked it that very day. We didn’t start with a specific style in mind, but while planning we naturally gravitated towards eclectic and vintage pieces. Looking back over the pictures fills us with so much joy about what we achieved.”
DIY Projects
“Our DIY projects really brought Damien and I together. The list included a floral ‘LOVE’ sign and garlands, our cake topper, a lolly bar, coasters made out of old records, a ‘Wedding This Way’ sign and confetti cones. We set up the hall ourselves the day before with my mum and sisters, and it was great to see our hard work coming together.”
Entertaining Guests
“I don’t know if this could be considered entertainment, but we made celebrity heads on a stick which people really loved! We placed them beside the dance floor and everyone had a ball dancing with them! It almost looked like Kanye, Adele, Taylor Swift and even Voldemort were in attendance. It went down really well.”
Down Memory Lane
“Damien and I love our Sunday adventures, and one weekend at a market we stopped to enjoy an ice cream from the van there. I remarked how ice cream always makes me nostalgic, reminding me of childhood summers. After that, he secretly organised for Ken’s Cones to cater our wedding dessert. That was such a sweet and special touch, and it’s my favourite moment from the day.”
Best Advice
1. If it feels right, go with it – no matter how untraditional it is. At the end of the day it’s about being true to yourself and your partner.
2. Pinterest and blogs are a great source of inspiration, but try not to get caught up in it.
3. Have fun with the planning process. On the day you get to see all your hard work come together in the best way.
Location: New South Wales | Photography: Lauren Campbell | Ceremony Venue: James Oates Reserve, Minnamurra | Reception Venue: Berry School of Arts | Officiant: Barbra Amoroso | Flowers: Flowers For Ever After | Hire: South Coast Party Hire | Bridal Portrait: Cheri Miller Art | Donut Piñata: Favor Lane Party Boutique | Cake: Summa Cakes | Ice Cream Truck: Ken’s Cones | Entertainment: Tillee Music | Transport: Kombi Celebrations | Wedding Dress: Chi Chi London | Bridesmaid Dresses: Shona Joy | Makeup: Lu Lu Makeup Artist | Suits: Connor