The most love-filled backyard wedding
On 22nd November 2013 the sun was shining and I just knew Meg’s parents beautiful backyard was going to be the perfect place for Meg & Dom’s nuptials to take place.
I first met Meg & her family at their home in Hampton, I was immediately taken by their relaxed yet excited approach to Meg & Dom’s backyard ceremony plans. Although Dom wasn’t present at our meeting I got a sense of how important including his family was to both of them and I was so pleased when they asked me to be involved in helping them create the perfect ceremony for their big day.
There were so many amazing personal touches to their ceremony; starting with the setting, Meg’s Dad built the arbour that was positioned under the Mulberry tree where Dom proposed; it was wrapped in fragrant jasmine flowers to acknowledge Dom’s Indian heritage. Both Meg & Dom asked all of their siblings to be part of the bridal party and stand with them as they made vows to one another. The ceremony began as both of Meg’s parents accompanied her from the backdoor of her family home down through the backyard where all of their dearest family and friends were gathered under big white umbrellas. We acknowledged all the important people who could not be present, in particular Dom’s Dad, by lighting a candle that burned brightly throughout the entire ceremony; during this emotional moment Dom’s sister sang a beautiful rendition of the Our Father.
It was such a pleasure to share Meg & Dom’s love story with all their guests, from how they met 10 years ago when they were 17 & 18 at a country tennis tournament, their adventures since that first meeting, the challenges they’ve faced such as living in different states as they both followed their career ambitions to setting up their life together in Jervis Bay. I was able to also share what they love about each other, which was such a privilege.
Following their beautiful marriage vows and wedding ring exchange we took a moment to make it official by signing all the documents, as we did this everyone was treated to a blessing sung by Dom’s mother and sister. As you may have guessed Dom’s family possess amazing musical and singing abilities and the groom was not going to be upstaged…. as we rejoined the guests to conclude the ceremony, Dom took hold of the microphone and surprised his bride with a beautiful song. It was such a special moment to witness and one that delighted everyone present, most of all Meg!
At the conclusion of the ceremony, everyone was treated to a gorgeous picnic in the backyard prior to the reception complete with fairy floss. The mood was so festive and full of love I found it hard to leave!
The images captured by Jerome Cole www.jeromecole.com.au are the perfect visual representation of Meg & Dom’s incredible wedding day.
Congratulations Mr. & Mrs. Whittingham, thanks welcoming me into your lives and allowing me to part of your amazing wedding day.