Riley and Gathu sure know how to throw a celebration – and their wedding in Sydney was proof. What a VIBE.
Coming from beautifully different backgrounds – Gathu born in Kenya and raised in Australia, Riley from America with Italian heritage – the couple made it a priority to honour both cultures throughout their Sydney wedding day. “We made it a priority to include our families throughout the whole process and honour the traditions that came before us. Being Christians we also felt it was crucial for our special day to honour and glorify God.”
After a deeply personal ‘first touch’ in lieu of a first look, the two said ‘I do’ in a heartfelt church ceremony at All Saints’ Church Woollahra. Then it was time for a roaring reception at The Eveleigh by The Grounds – think epic newlywed entrance, fun tambourine wedding favours and a gelato cart. Scroll on for stunning stills captured by wedding photographer Joeyy Lee Weddings, plus highlight moments from this Sydney celebration…
Magic Moments: A First Touch, Cultural Choreography & a Reception to Remember
“A super special moment for me was when Gathu and I did our first touch. We wanted to save seeing each other for at the church so we did a first touch where we stood back to back and held hands, we prayed together and said personal vows which was such a grounding moment to have with one another before the chaos of the day started. Another super special moment was our entrance for the reception. We had choreographed an African dance to do with all of our Kenyan friends while we entered and the atmosphere was ecstatic. Seeing the joy on all of our friends and families faces was such a beautiful thing to start the night with.”
The bride’s Karen Willis Holmes two-piece & second look
“I went dress shopping with two of my bridesmaids, we had two appointments for the day with our first one being at KWH Bridal. When I put on the second dress I immediately knew it was mine. I walked out to show my friends and one of them started crying instantly. I called my mum, grandma and sisters in America to show them and they all loved it.”
Honouring Culture & Wedding Customs: A Kenyan Ruracio & Italian-American Traditions
“We had a Ruracio ceremony four days prior to our wedding. This is a traditional Kenyan ceremony where the grooms side of the family officially welcome the bride in and pay the dowry. In doing so the union is formally recognised and two have now become one. On the actual day of our wedding we still wanted to honour both cultures so we had moments throughout the day that highlighted the joining of our two cultures. At our ceremony we sang worship together, took communion and participated in the washing of each other’s feet. During the recession of the ceremony we were surrounded by all of the Kenyan aunties as they sang and blessed our union. For our entrance into our reception we did a Kenyan dance and had Kenyan drummers perform something to kickstart our night.”
Standout Sydney wedding vendors
“We absolutely adored our photographer Joeyy Lee Weddings and our videographer Ivan. They made our day so seamless and fun. We also loved our day of coordinator at The Eveleigh. She ensured our evening stayed on track and was always checking in on us making sure we had everything we needed.”
Love This Sydney Wedding? Here’s What to Do Next
If you’re vibing this wedding album – and honestly, how could you not – get in touch with Joeyy Lee Photography about their Sydney wedding photography offerings. For help planning your own Sydney wedding, bookmark our NSW wedding directory for venues, planners, florists, entertainers and more – then explore more real weddings in New South Wales for further inspiration.
CONTRIBUTING VENDORS Photographer Joeyy Lee Photography Cinematography Ivan Dinh Films Ceremony Florals & Stationery Riley (Bride) Izzy Rivera (Friend) Bouquets & Reception Florist White House Flowers Ceremony All Saints’ Church Woollahra Reception, Catering, Gelato Cart & Cake Maker The Eveleigh by The Grounds Cake Topper FocusLampang via Etsy Photo Booth Photo Booth Condotti Lighting & Sound Hire AV360 Signage & Favours Riley (Bride) Entertainment & Music Harry Parnwell, Rachel Brown Celebrant Past Ken Kamau Rings Santos Customs Transport Hashtag Car Hire THE BRIDE Dresses Karen Willis Holmes Shoes The White Ribbon Veil Bridal by Valeria via Etsy Gloves Momaeker via Etsy Perfume Eau d’Italie Hair Airlie and Co Stylist Jade & Mijung Makeup Chantel Asic Bridal Party Outfits MeshkiTHE GROOM Suit & Belt Politix Shoes Connor Hair JaysFadez
