While the ceremony and reception get much attention, newlyweds Fiona and Liam agree that canapé hour is where it’s at. So, for their own big day, this couple took creative license to the traditional timeline, stretching out post-ceremony celebrations to ensure they could join in the fun. “Whenever we go to other weddings, [it’s] always our favourite period – getting to see everyone, mingle, and soak up that time. We were so fortunate with the weather and it turned out exactly as we pictured it!”
Something that would “feel timeless in years to come” was the brief and safe to say these college sweethearts nailed it. The incredible Waldara Farm in the greater Blue Mountains region played host for the day. Meanwhile, behind the camera was our friend Hannah Blackmore, so it’s no wonder every single snap is 11/10 stunning. So many classically beautiful details just waiting to be pinned, plus our chat with the happy couple – it’s all below!
THE VENUE “We set out a few non-negotiables for what we wanted from a venue, mainly a beautiful rural venue within three hours drive of Sydney and with lots of onsite accommodation for our bridal party. My sister showed me Waldara Farm, thinking it might fit the bill, as she’d been to a wedding there before. It was the first venue we looked at, and we immediately loved it. Liam’s much more decisive than I am and was done then and there. By the time we drove back into Sydney, I was too!”
MEMORABLE MOMENT (Liam) “When I saw Fiona walk down the aisle. She looked beautiful. I also loved our prolonged cocktail hour and getting to chat with all our guests.” (Fiona) “I loved our speeches! I was so nervous before speaking, but once we started, all that melted away. We were so lucky with how well our MC, bridal party and family speeches went. We were in stitches the whole way through.”
LITTLE LOL “My dad forgetting his suit pants! There was some frantic running around in the background, but he was lucky that the Waldara crew came to the rescue with a pair to loan not long before the ceremony was starting. I was completely unaware and didn’t even notice!”
STANDOUT VENDORS “Waldara Farm staff went above and beyond! They were across every detail, pre-empting issues and had a solution for everything. Bec was essentially a day-of coordinator who made sure everything was under control.”
MARRIAGE MEANS “Laughing together and finding comfort together in the good and the bad. We must admit, after 12 years together, being married doesn’t feel that different. I think Liam’s relieved that people have finally stopped asking him when he would pop the question.”
WE’RE GLAD WE… “Decided to do a catered casual dinner with family and bridal party the night before our wedding. It was the perfect way to kick off the weekend and spend time with friends and family, particularly those who travelled from overseas.”
If you’re getting wed in New South Wales you’ll be pleased to know that we’ve got Hannah Blackmore’s contact details right here just for you. Or if you’ve fallen hard for Waldara Farm introduce yourself to their fabulous team here. In need of some pool-side reading this summer? Issue 40 of Hello May is fresh off the press and ready for you at your local newsagent.
CONTRIBUTING VENDORS Photographer Hannah Blackmore Weddings Cinematographer Lucas Martin – Saltyfrogz Florist, Stationary & Signage DIY Printer Vistaprint Venue Waldara Farm Catering Short St Kitchen Cake Maker Mrs C’s Cupcakes Entertainment Mitch – Oberon lane Celebrant Gaye Davies Rings Affinity Diamonds Transport Near or Far Bus and Coach THE BRIDE Bridal Gown Designer Helen English Veil Kadaleyah via Etsy Getting Ready PJs Le Rose Shoes Gucci Accessories Saint Valentine (Earrings) Hair Laura via Bridal Glow Co Makeup Sam Bird via Bridal Glow Co Fragrance Gucci Bridesmaid Dresses Hansen & Gretel, Paris Georgia & Wynn Hamlyn Bridesmaids Gift Saint Valentine THE GROOM Suit, Jacket, Shirt & Pants P.Johnson Bow Tie Hound Accessories Shoes Aquila Groomsmen Shirts P.Johnson
