When a couple tells us their biggest wedding priority was spending maximum time with their favourite people, we already know we’re in for a good one. And Shelby and Luke? They nailed it. These two gathered their crew from all over the country (and beyond) and headed for the rolling green hills of Midginbil Eco Resort — a laidback, scenic spot where everyone could bunk in and settle into a full weekend of celebration. Think: big love, honest vibes, and one epic surprise piñata on the dance floor.
From a first-look that eased the nerves, to a standout Georgia Young Couture gown, this day was all about doing things their way — no rules, no pressure, just a whole lot of joy. Captured by the very talented (and very lovely) Cooper Brady, what followed was a wedding with heart, soul and a whole lot of personality.
Scroll on for more from this chill, love-filled day – including DIY touches, sweet speeches, and one very wise piece of advice.
THE VENUE
“One of our biggest priorities was to have the ability for guests to stay on-site with us. We had a lot of guests travelling from NSW, QLD, VIC, WA and overseas so we wanted to not only make it worth the travel for them, but also pack in as much time as we could to spend with our favourite people. Midginbil is stunning, the team are amazing, and we pretty much had free reign of the property for the weekend to make our own.”
THE DRESS
“I felt a lot of pressure to ‘find the one’ and was disappointed that after trying on maybe 15 dresses that none of them felt like me. The other factor was that most of the dresses I was trying on in store were small sample sizes and it was not only hard to picture what they would look like if they fit, but incredibly frustrating to not be able to try on something in my size. Sphere Bridal was my last ditch effort and thank god I didn’t lose hope. The team were amazing, and helped me feel really at ease and comfortable. My mum brought in the Georgia Young Couture dress I ended up choosing. It ended up being ‘the one’ and I loved wearing it so much.”
FAVE DETAILS
“A few things standout – first looks, speeches, piñata. We decided to do a first look with each other to have a moment to connect, and ground ourselves before we spend the rest of the day with all our friends and family. For me, it really helped to ease the anxiety I had about having all eyes on us, and reminded me that ultimately this day is for us and no one else. It was intimate and special and I would highly recommend it! Only a few people knew about the pinata so it was so fun to surprise everyone with it in the middle of the dancefloor. It really set the vibe for the rest of the night and kicked off the dancefloor in the best way I can think of.”
STANDOUT VENDOR
“Cooper Brady our photographer, who went above and beyond for us all day. More than that, he was like having another friend in our bridal party. We felt so relaxed and at ease with him there.”
A WORD OF ADVICE
“Do what you and your future spouse want to do, in a way that honours who you are and your unique relationship. At the end of the day, it is about you and honestly f*ck what anyway else thinks. If you do it for the two of you, I don’t think it’s possible to have a bad time.”
Loving Shelby’s stunning gown? Find Georgia Young Couture on the Hello May directory here, and check out her gorgeous Peach Jam collection. If you’re on the hunt for an epic photographer, get in touch with Cooper Brady right here.
CONTRIBUTING VENDORS Photographer Cooper Brady Photography Florist Studio Alyssum Stationery & Signage DIY by Bride Ceremony & Reception Venue Midginbil Eco Resort Catering JR’s Smokehouse Barbecue Bar Silver Belle Events Other Desserts Banjo’s Bakery Entertainment/DJ Niall Lochhead Celebrant Married By Harry Rings Flair Jewellery On-the-Day Coordinator Renee, Help Me Hitch Large Paper Flowers Bud Paper Flowers THE BRIDE Bridal Gown Designer Georgia Young Couture Bridal Boutique Sphere Bridal Gallery Hairpiece Lovisa Shoes Pink Ink via The Iconic Accessories Kookai, Flair Jewellery Hair & Makeup Natalie Lucas Bridal THE GROOM Suit, Shirt, Shoes & Tie Connor Grooming Sharpies Barbershop Groomsmen Suits Connor
