Emma & Mitch’s Waterfront DIY Surprise Wedding

Waterfront DIY Surprise Wedding | Barefoot & Bearded

Mitch proposed to Emma after skydiving together, and everything went according to plan – even when she thought he’d tripped over the parachute as he went down on one knee! The surprises kept coming when guests turned up for their engagement party and were treated to their lovely DIY waterfront wedding. 

Waterfront DIY Surprise Wedding | Barefoot & BeardedWaterfront DIY Surprise Wedding | Barefoot & Bearded

The Planning Experience

“Planning a surprise wedding for 150 guests from the other side of the country was definitely a struggle, but we were lucky enough to have amazing families who helped so much. I had great vendors who Skyped and emailed and a support team here to help make the wedding planning as fun as it could be.”

Waterfront DIY Surprise Wedding | Barefoot & Bearded Waterfront DIY Surprise Wedding | Barefoot & Bearded Waterfront DIY Surprise Wedding | Barefoot & BeardedWaterfront DIY Surprise Wedding | Barefoot & Bearded Waterfront DIY Surprise Wedding | Barefoot & BeardedWaterfront DIY Surprise Wedding | Barefoot & Bearded

The Dress

“Living in rural WA it was not at all easy – I had an amazing vendor who went out of her way to accommodate what I was looking for. When I found a few dresses on the website, they were happy for me to design it how I wanted. I actually didn’t try my dress on until it arrived…crazy I know and a bridesmaid’s worst fear but I loved it!”

Waterfront DIY Surprise Wedding | Barefoot & Bearded Waterfront DIY Surprise Wedding | Barefoot & BeardedWaterfront DIY Surprise Wedding | Barefoot & Bearded

Bridal Party Styling

“We wanted stylish, with a bohemian vibe. I think we really pulled it off and all my bridesmaids can wear their dresses again.”

Waterfront DIY Surprise Wedding | Barefoot & BeardedWaterfront DIY Surprise Wedding | Barefoot & BeardedWaterfront DIY Surprise Wedding | Barefoot & Bearded Waterfront DIY Surprise Wedding | Barefoot & Bearded Waterfront DIY Surprise Wedding | Barefoot & Bearded

The Styling

“Our venue was Mitchell’s family holiday house on Lake Macquarie, and 90% of the decorating and styling was done by our families…we were very lucky! For the reception, our colour theme was natural browns, champagne and gold. Our florist went above and beyond – she was so organised and had everything set up exactly how I wanted ”

Waterfront DIY Surprise Wedding | Barefoot & BeardedWaterfront DIY Surprise Wedding | Barefoot & Bearded

Entertaining Guests

“We had an acoustic guitarist who played throughout the afternoon and evening with just our favourite Triple J beats playing in between, it couldn’t have made the atmosphere any better.”

Waterfront DIY Surprise Wedding | Barefoot & Bearded Waterfront DIY Surprise Wedding | Barefoot & Bearded

Best Advice

“Don’t stress – everything falls into place – and don’t worry about those extra 3 kilos. Make sure the day is both your style and enjoy the ride.”

Waterfront DIY Surprise Wedding | Barefoot & Bearded Waterfront DIY Surprise Wedding | Barefoot & BeardedWaterfront DIY Surprise Wedding | Barefoot & Bearded

Location: New South Wales | Photography: Barefoot & Bearded | Venue: Private Property | Celebrant: Kim Oakhill | Styling: DIY | Flowers: Flowers by Lorey | Invitations & Signage: Paper Parasols | Gown: Made With Love | Bridesmaids: Show Me Your Mumu | Hair & Makeup: WAK The Salon | Suits: Ed Harry & Tarocash | Entertainment: Josh Drinkwater

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