It was thanks to an amazing army of friends and family (and a handful of vendors including Red Fragrance Floral Design and Little Paper Lane) that Sally and Neil’s day was such a big success. Choosing to marry at Coaster’s Retreat in Sydney, a place only accessible by boat, Sally and Neil were required to do almost everything themselves. “Our bridesmaids, sisters, groomsmen and families came to Palm Beach a few days leading up to the wedding and helped carry everything over by boat, tie up fairy lights and bunting, hang up signs, set tables etc”, says Sally describing the vibe of their day as a “garden picnic”. “It had a relaxed, Midsummer Night’s Dream meets Alice In Wonderland kind of vibe.”
Their bright, confetti-filled day, captured by uber talented photographer Scott Surplice was fun, relaxed and full of surprises. “The whole day was magical”, says Sally who wore an elegant silk gown from Raffale Ciuca. “But a real highlight was when my sisters grabbed Neil from one side of the party and me from the dance floor and told us to walk down to the water for a surprise. We walked down to the wharf and saw big cushions, fairy lights and champagne waiting for us. We sat together for about half an hour, listening to the laughter, music and partying going on in the garden and just reflecting on our incredible day.”
Her bridesmaid Milly also surprised them with a giant pinata the shape of a wedding cake. “It would have taken her ages to make but was such a great surprise!” In one fell swoop Neil had knocked it wide open, and after collecting their reward it was time for them to leave their retreat and begin their happily married lives together, something Sally hopes will one day be an option for everyone. “Marriage means finding your best friend and sharing everything with them. I can’t wait until Australia realises that and allows everyone to officially enjoy being married.”
CREDITS Photos Scott Surplice // Bridal gown Maggie Sottero via Raffale Ciuca // Flowers and hair piece Red Fragrance Floral Design // Shoes Sol Sana // Rings Claire Aristedes Fine Jewels // Bridesmaids dresses C&M, Zimmerman, Alice & Olivia, Bec & Bridge and Asos // Grooms suit Dr Denim (pants) and Marcs (shirt) // Grooms shoes Asos // Ceremony Bonnie Doon Beach, NSW // Reception private property, NSW // Catering Hussein Bahsoun // Cake Sergio’s Cake Shop // Stationery Little Paper Lane // Hair Michelle Kroon // Makeup Kate Goerlach // Music Mike Champion and The Cool // Celebrant Vanessa Ballard // Transport Palm Beach Ferry // Beer The Grifter Brewing Co.