There’s no place like home, and while Bridget and Tommy considered getting married in Melbourne, nothing felt quite as magical as the bride’s family abode in Boneo on the Mornington Peninsula. Backdropped by lush green scenery, this marquee celebration was elegant as can be, yet steeped in warm, welcoming dinner-party-at-home energy.
If you’re hosting your own backyard soiree we’re sure you’re itching to hear the newlyweds advice. As they explain below, picking this path is no walk in the park, but so worth it when you partner up with the right people. Like, for instance, planner/stylist White Top and photographer Liz Barnes, who was “an absolute dream to work with,” going above and beyond to make the couple feel totally comfortable in front of the camera.
Read on to relive Bridget and Tommy’s beaut day.
AN ELEVATED FAMILY DINNER PARTY
“Boneo has been a treasured place for our family for many years, and my dad now lives there permanently. My brother, sister and I often bring our partners to spend long weekends and holidays, gathering around the fire and sharing the incredible meals made by my amazing mum. At first, we didn’t think hosting the wedding in Boneo would be possible, so we explored a few options in Melbourne. But after meeting Josh from White Top and beginning the planning process with Ayesha, we realised it could be everything we dreamed of. It would feel just like sitting around the family dinner table, only this time with our closest friends and family gathered to celebrate with us.”
UNIQUE STATIONERY & DIY WEDDING DETAILS
“Hydrangeas were a must for me. We had Estudyo create all our florals, except for the table arrangements. For something a little different, I wanted our seating chart to feel unique, so my sister-in-law Bella and I designed beautiful seating charts that were placed inside hydrangea plants and herbs. Liz captured some stunning photos of this detail, which I’ll always treasure. Bella is the most creative person I know, and she was behind so many of the special touches. She designed our invitations and all of the stationery for the wedding night, as well as some fun details for my hens and our recovery day – like custom pizza box labels that were such a hit. And of course, one of my favourite details came from my mum. She’s famous for her blondies (white chocolate and raspberry slice), so she made some for the wedding and we served them alongside the cake. It was a personal touch and a highlight of the day!”
VIRAL FIRST DANCE MOMENT
“One of my biggest highlights of the day was something we almost didn’t do, our first dance. We chose an absolute banger, ‘I Believe’ by Yolanda Adams, and it turned out to be such a moment. The dance even went viral on TikTok, which still makes us laugh! Another highlight was having Stuey Faymous on the decks, he played hit after hit, and the dance floor honestly didn’t stop all night. And of course, our vows were incredibly special too. They were such a true reflection of who we are – Tommy’s being beautifully emotional, and mine a little more black and white. It felt perfectly us.”
ADVICE FOR GETTING MARRIED AT HOME
“It’s easy to say ‘have fun and enjoy the process’ but the truth is, wedding planning can definitely be stressful, especially if you’re hosting it at home! My biggest piece of advice would be to choose vendors who make you feel comfortable and truly align with you and your partner. Trust them, they know what they’re doing, they’ve done it a million times, and their whole role is to make your day easier. Once you have that dream team around you, you really can relax and enjoy every moment.”
Keen to learn more from couples who got hitched at home? Check out these seriously mind-blowing backyard weddings. Then hit up the directory – it’s your go-to destination for local vendors who will turn your vision into reality. We’re taking caterers, hire companies, mobile trucks, planners, and, of course, talented photographers like Liz Barnes (who you can get in touch with here.)
CONTRIBUTING VENDORS Photographer Liz Barnes Cinematographer For the Future Films Event Planner, Stylist & Marquee White Top Florist Estudyo Stationery Bella Quinn Venue Private Property Catering Finesse Catering Cake Maker The Naked Orange Lighting & Sound Hire Stuey Faymous Entertainment Jarrod Brez Celebrant Jordan Tunbridge THE BRIDE Bridal Gown & Veil Designer Bridal Haze Getting Ready Kat the Label Hair Blanca Beauty Makeup Olivia Florence Bridesmaid Dresses Natalie Rolt, Shona Joy, Camilla and Marc, Hansen & Gretel, By Nicola Bridesmaid Shoes Novo Bridesmaid Gifts Mecca, By Charlotte THE GROOM Suit, Jacket, Shirt, Pants, Suspenders, Tie & Cufflinks P. Johnson
