After their engagement, TJ and Billy set out to plan their special day. As a couple who love a wedding getaway, they were also conscious of the cost for their guests.
“The criteria we were after was a beautiful mountain setting where guests could camp. The Nimbin Rox YHA popped up on a Google search and we drove out to the Byron hinterland to check it out. The location was perfect,” explains the couple, who were inspired by Woodword Folk Festival and the magical moments they’d shared there.
Chasing a festival-like vibe (and always a fan of a good pun), the pair coined ‘Wedford’ as the name of their special day. Complete with a teepee by SamiKata, heaps of flowers by The French Petal, photos by Graham Murray Photography and a vintage inspired gown, this DIY day was one we’re sure guests will never forget.
“Finding my gown was super Easy! I found an image on Pinterest, clicked on it and decided it was the one, no fuss! The Rena Gown is made with ivory French lace inspired by the 60’s. I ordered it from Kite & Butterfly online from Australian identical twins based in LA, it took only a month or so for it to arrive with an added train and then took another month for final tailoring,” explains the bride, who adds that marriage to her and Billy just means ‘more of the same’.
“We don’t want anything to change which is precisely why we married. We wanted to solidify what we already have which is a solid friendship and a very quirky relationship,” the pair says, though they advise other couples not to get bogged down with the word ‘wedding’.
“Treat your wedding like a big party! This will relieve pressure and create a unique customised and personalised vibe. Don’t forget to stop and breathe, take it all in and have fun with your partner. We made a pact to stick together the whole night and experience it as one. If you set the right vibe, your guests and the night will follow. It’s important for the guests to leave feeling like they’ve tasted a piece of your sweet delicious pie.”
CREDITS Photos Graham Murray Photography // Bridal gown Kite and Butterfly // Lingerie Calvin Klein // Shoes and grooms jacket H&M // Accessories Lily Jewels // Hair Jessica Plant // Makeup Hannah Brisblat // Rings Johnson & Co Jewellers // Bridesmaid shoes Tony Bianco // Bridesmaid gifts Colette Hayman // Grooms pants Top Shop // Socks Declic // Florist The French Petal // Ceremony and reception Nimbin Rox YHA, NSW // Food trucks or carts Pizzantica and The Classic Ice Cream Van Company // Furniture hire and teepee SamiKata // Lighting hire Light Up My Life // Entertainment Still Standing // Celebrant The Byron Bay Wedding Celebrant // Transport Byron Kombi Limo.