Belle and James became husband and wife in the springtime, at the bride’s family home in Brisbane. It was a dreamy garden party wedding, anchored by the effortless warmth, charm, and laid-back energy of an at-home celebration. “We’re glad that we had it at Belle’s family home,” share the newlyweds, who have been together eight years but in each other’s orbit since childhood, growing up just 800m down the road. “It shaped the tone of the day and made it feel even more intimate, meaningful and genuinely reflective of us.”
If you’re looking for backyard wedding inspiration, well, you’ve struck gold with this one. Take a scroll for all the couple’s wedding vendor picks – from planning and equipment hire right down to bridesmaid gifts (shoutout Witt & Pearl) – as well as glowing testimony for the couple’s photographer Taylor Kezia and videographer Sommar Films.
A Wedding at Home: Garden Ceremony and Reception in Brisbane
“Belle’s family home holds a special place in her heart. Belle’s mother Andrea takes particular care of the garden and has fostered a frangipani tree which is of particular importance to Belle. We hadn’t considered any other venues. Having the ceremony and reception in a family home made the day very special.”
An Unconventional Wedding Cake: Homemade Tiramisu
“One of our favourite details was the tiramisu cake made by Belle’s mum. It was a personal touch that meant far more to us than a traditional wedding cake.”
Custom Bridal Gown Designed in Brisbane
“Belle’s dress was made by Paul Cowley, who is based out of Alla Moda Fabric in Fortitude Valley. Belle has known Paul for years, as her mum grew up with him – he has an innate understanding of her style, probably better than she knows herself! Before Belle had even started looking, Paul came across a fabric he knew she would love and had already sketched a dress design by the time she saw it in person. From that point on, the decision was made. Belle did not look at or try on any other dresses. The process felt effortless and deeply personal from start to finish.”
Memorable Wedding Moment: Getting the Dance Floor Started
“The evening was filled with memorable moments, but our favourite was walking into the reception with our bridal party, heading straight to the dance floor and getting everyone up for a boogie before any formalities – we feel like it set the tone for the rest of the night!”
Relaxed Ceremony Vibes, Thanks in Part to an Accidental Wardrobe Malfunction
“A funny moment was a classic clumsy Belle moment where, as she was walking down the aisle, her heel caught on the bottom of her dress, tearing it. It instantly set everyone into laughter, broke the nerves and set the tone for the rest of the ceremony.”
Standout Brisbane Wedding Photography and Videography
“Honestly, all of our vendors were incredible. Our photographer, Taylor Kezia, and videographer, Sommar Films, were by far our stand-out vendors though. They worked seamlessly together, which kept the day calm and didn’t make it feel overproduced. As two extremely camera-shy people who were dreading being in front of one all day, both vendors made us feel so natural, like it was just the two of us. Funnily enough, it actually became a favourite part of the day for both of us – thanks to the both of them!”
More Backyard Wedding Inspiration
Visit the blog for a second helping of wholesome home weddings. Or if you’re ready to start locking in your vendors, check out our directory – your wedding planning bestie – for our favourite wedding suppliers in the country. It’s also where you’ll find beautiful Witt & Pearl bling for you and your bridal party, as well as more weddings captured by QLD photographer Taylor Kezia – uber talented and much loved among HM couples.
CONTRIBUTING VENDORS Photographer Taylor Kezia Cinematographer Sommar Films Event Planner & Stylist Haus of Hera Florist Fiflar Stationery & Signage Studio Sachs Venue Private Property Catering Mathias Can Cook Tiramisu Mother of the Bride Hire Items House of Harvey, Love Bird Weddings, Avideas, Simply Seated Lighting Hire Excel Hire Sound Hire & Entertainment Hamilton Band Celebrant Celebrant Lady Love Rings Paul Sosinski Flooring Staging Creations THE BRIDE Bridal Gown, Veil & Bridesmaid Dress Designer Paul Cowley via Alla Moda Getting Ready Kat the Label, Luxe & Beau Shoes Roger Vivier, Coach Hair Steven & Jonathan via Blow Salon Makeup Ginelle Dale Fragrance Byredo Bridesmaid Gifts Witt & Pearl THE GROOM Suit & Groomsmen Suits P. Johnson Shoes Morjas Watch Baume & Mercier
