After dating for only six months, Amber and Justin set out to hike up Big Brother Mountain – which ended in a big surprise. “We ended up jogging most of the way and running out of water, so when we got to the top I said Okay I’m over this, I’m hot and we have no water, let’s run down’ It took Justin about five minutes to convince me to sit down as I had no idea, and then he got really nervous and I exclaimed What’s wrong with you’ and then he proposed!”
Hoping to have their ceremony and reception in the same place, the pair landed on the Royal National Park and Audley Dance Hall as the location for their big day. “We just really wanted something naturally stunning and casual, and we also didn’t want a venue that was essentially a wedding factory! We had our venue for the whole weekend, so the day before the wedding we all got up at 4am, went to the flower market and did up the hall and cleaned up the ceremony site with family which was really fun.”
That being said, the day was, of course, filled with heaps of DIY. From the flowers at the reception, to the cake, entertainment and even Amber’s gown, the bride and groom and their friends and family all pitched in to make the day come together flawlessly.
“I adored my dress, and it was so special that my step-mum Judy Copley (of Judy Copley Couture) handmade it for me. I actually saw it in one of her runway shows and fell in love with the design, so she made it to fit me. The whole experience was beautiful. She is so creative and kind, I would recommend her to anyone. She’s also so relaxed, and it makes for such a nice atmosphere and made the whole process a wonderful experience.”
Captured by Barefoot and Bearded, the newlyweds admit that the ceremony was their favourite part of the day but the reception kept guests partying into the early hours of the morning. “There was such a good vibe, we partied at the venue until around 3am, and my marriage night ended with Justin, myself, the best man, and the maid of honour, eating meat balls and chocolate on the kitchen floor at 5am!”
CREDITS Photos Barefoot and Bearded // Bridal gown Judy Copley Couture // Robes / getting read tees Victoria’s Secret and Bras n Things // Shoes Diana Ferrari // Accessories and bridesmaid dresses Winona // Hair and makeup Petr Vackar Hair and Makeup // Rings GS Diamonds // Suit Joe Black // Barber / grooming Badlambs Barber // Groomsmen suits TM Lewin London // Pet accessories Pet Barn // Florist Rachel Bethany // Printer Eliprint Bondi // Ceremony Pool Flats Park, NSW // Reception and catering Audley Dance Hall, NSW // Cake topper Hard to Find // Decorative elements Typo // Sound hire DJ Warehouse // Entertainment Mike Champion & The Cool // Transport Bundeena Ferry.