After checking out a boatload of inner city venues, Nell and Glenn (of the Real Wedding Special) quickly realised none would suffice as the party haven they’d dreamt of for their big day. Cue Mimosa Glen Homestead, a picturesque homestead and cottage nestled just 100 kilometres outside Melbourne.
“When we went to visit Mimosa Glen we were blown away… but because of the remote venue location almost everything had to be considered and organised to be brought in.”
Nell and Glenn certainly had their work cut out for them but this crafty pair was fully devoted to creating the ultimate do-it-yourself wedding. “Because our wedding was heavily DIY, we started planning 9 months beforehand. In the last six months, we had a weekly calendar on the wall of the jobs that needed to be ticked off,” says Nell, who rocked a custom gown and Grace and Lace veil.
They collected tins and jars to make tabletop plants, cut wine bottles into vases, made heaps of signage, a flower garland and a gorgeous Paper Moon photo booth. Nell and Glen were even clever enough to put together first aid kits for the bathrooms, an essential for rowdy party guests (like cousin Daniel who opted for a bit of a nap’ on a hay bale two hours into the reception).
“Everything that we had done ourselves was so much fun to finally share with everyone. After weeks of collecting things, craft making and trips to the hardware store it was a real payoff to see it all used to make our day so special.”
Despite all the hard work, the couple assures us that having the location all to themselves with no curfew or noise considerations to worry about “was well worth the extra effort” and, thanks to Melbourne photographer/ boutonniere-pinning expert Andrew Hardy, we can vouch that it resulted in a totally epic night of partying.
“I’m glad we had such a great photographer who stayed with us all day. It’s true that the day goes by really fast so it’s nice to have such a beautiful record of the day.”
CREDITS Photos Andrew Hardy Photography // Bridal gown Vanessa Howe // Veil Grace and Lace // Shoes Forever New // Hair Living Dolls // Makeup JustineO // Bridesmaid dresses Heartmycloset via Etsy // Groom and groomsmen suits and shoes ASOS // Shirt Carbon Copy Shirts // Socks Happy Socks // On the day wedding coordinator Sharon Pillay // Florist Floriography // Ceremony and reception Mimosa Glen Homestead, VIC // Catering Minute Chefs // Cake Blackbird Cakes // Prop and furniture hire, marquee / teepee and sound hire Bendigo Hire // Entertainment Susy Blue Band // Celebrant Deb Scherger // Transport Organs Coaches Kyneton.