It was a passion for nature, family and friends that inspired Marlana and Sean’s relaxed cocktail wedding (first featured in issue 18). Telling us that the process of setting up for the celebration was incredibly fulfilling, the couple notes it as one of their favourite memories. “It was amazing being outside amongst the nature and seeing and hearing the beautiful sounds of wedged-tailed eagles, superb fairywrens, yellow-tailed black cockatoos, blue-winged parrots and crimson rosellas and koalas.”
Undertaking the design and creation of the wedding themselves, there’s no doubt that Marlana and Sean had their work cut out for them, organising the flowers, photo booth, decor and more. To set the scene for the relaxed vibe, the couple had been dreaming up were the fairy lights, a boho styled reception and live music . Their band, the newlyweds say, was a real standout vendor. “They made the guests get up and groove and sing along.” Another superstar supplier was photographer Caroline Sada, who was on-scene all day capturing the good times.
“Caroline was fantastic! She embraced each moment and got amongst the excitement but was smooth with the transition of the photos and invisible when moments were snapped,” explains the bride, fondly remembering a certain special stroll.
“I loved walking down the aisle and seeing all my friends and family looking happy and the love of my life smiling at me at the end of the aisle whilst my dad whispered beautiful, supportive words in my ear,” says Marlana, adding that the speeches were a definite highlight.
“The Best Man Rhys gave the greatest gentleman’s speech ever given before, followed by the Maid of Honour Shari giving a lovingly and embarrassing bundle of fun stories about the bride and groom. As well, the speeches from both parents were heartfelt, comical and honourable. All speeches touched the heart, tears were shed and the atmosphere was filled with love.”
Having learnt a lot from their day of love, it’s no surprise that Marlana and Sean are now experts in the field of wedding planning, advising other couples to “embrace every moment of angst, sadness, nervousness and excitement. Each feeling is still unique and different to what it may usually be, they are a bunch of new feelings which you will not experience again. More importantly, allow downtime for yourself and your partner – and remember to turn off your phones because everyone will be contacting you a lot!”
Feeling inspired? Why not treat yourself to one of our past issues from our online store? Full to the brim with real weddings and great tips, vendors and advice, every issue is an encyclopedia of wedding goodness!
CONTRIBUTING VENDORS Photographer Caroline Sada // Ceremony Venue Manna Gum Lookout, Kawarren Victoria // Reception Venue Echidna House, Kawarren Victoria // Food Trucks Trailer Made // Wedding Bands APS Jewellery THE BRIDE Bridal Gown Vanessa Hoe // Bridal Boutique Freddie Met Lilly // Shoes Wittners Shoes // Bridesmaid Dresses Get Frocked THE GROOMS Groom and Groomsmen Suits Tailor 4 Less // Tie Bossini // Groomsmen Gifts Peter Jackons.