Larissa, a singer/songwriter and Jake, a case manager, recently gathered 130 for their nearest and dearest together at Sydney Harbours historic Athol Hall for a low key commitment ceremony (“we did not get married under the marriage act as we did not believe/ agree with the wording at the time that marriage was only to be between a man and a woman”) and one of our fave Northern Beaches photographers, Blaise Bell, went along for the ride…
THE VENUE “We were lucky enough to play music for a wedding about a month before ours at Athol Hall and completely got to suss out what we thought worked and what we would do differently.”
FAVOURITE DETAILS “Everything was above our expectation. I loved my bouquet and our cake was really yummy.”
THE DRESS “My Mum called me one day and she was in David Jones and said she found a lovely Zimmermann dress she thought I would love. I went that afternoon to try it on and loved it. It was the only dress I tried on. I didn’t have an idea of what I wanted so I think it made it so easy to decide.”
A WORD OF ADVICE “Do it your way. Be thoughtful and bold in your choices and make the day a true expression of yourselves. Put the work in before so you can completely relax and let go of control on the day and go with the flow. Research what marriage under Australian law means and see if it is what you are looking for. Know there are other options and ways to celebrate your love and cement your union.”
STANDOUT VENDORS “Blaise Bell, our photographer captured some beautiful images and we really didn’t give him a long time for photos. He was so easygoing and accommodating as we didn’t want to “miss the party” for photo time.”
CONTRIBUTING VENDORS Photographer Blaise Bell Florist Fleur & Threads Stationery The Sundae Creative Ceremony, Reception & Catering Athol Hall Hire items George and Smee Sound Larissa McKay Music Entertainment Jordan Millar Duo, DJ Mick Mcgrath Celebrant Darren Percival Rings Stuart Alexander Goldsmith THE BRIDE Bridal Gown Zimmermann Shoes Senso Hair Phoebe Shaw Makeup Freckle Face THE GROOM Suit Peter Jackson Shirt Saba Bow Tie & Shoes Oxford Watch The Horse Barber The Wandering Stylist.