Sophie and Ben celebrated their marriage on a warm, but not too hot, February day. They chose Harcourt Valley Vineyard to create a fun, party atmosphere where the outdoor spaces speak for themselves, don’t require much in the way of decorating and are simply perfect for a Summer wedding.

Before Sophie arrived with her dad, guests were enjoying some live tunes from Tom Harrington on guitar and vocals. (Hot tip: live music before and during your ceremony is a game changer to set a celebratory mood). Sophie and her dad walked through a hushed and excited crowd while Tom played, ‘I’m With You’. During that aisle walk, Sophie and Ben only had eyes for each other and on reaching the end, even snuck in a pre-ceremony kiss!

I told some relationship stories, including how they met; a supreme effort by Sophie’s big sister, ‘Matchmaker Lucy’, who kept inviting them both around for dinner every week until they finally realised they were perfect for each other!

Beautiful, personal vows were exchanged, rings were slipped on fingers and some surprise crowd participation brought the ceremony to a joyful, inclusive close. As Sophie and Ben recessed back down the aisle, showered with good wishes and rose petals, everyone was feeling the love vibe and were more than ready to party and dance the night away under the stars. This wedding ceremony really was a ‘party starter!’

Thank you, gorgeous Sophie and Ben, for inviting me into this most precious of days and for sharing your love story with me – it was such a privilege!

And from Sophie:

Sue was absolutely amazing. As soon as we found Sue we knew she was the one to marry us. Sue is very professional and is very kind-hearted and loving. Her sense of humour is great, and we couldn’t recommend her highly enough. Sue also made sure I was OK before I walked down the aisle and gave me a cuddle. It honestly made me feel calm and reassured me that everything would be OK and I would have nothing to worry about. Thanks again so much Sue, we absolutely loved having you a part of our wedding.

Celebrant: Sue Begg

Photographer: Sarah-Jane VR Photography

Venue: Harcourt Valley Vineyards

Sophie’s gown: Bendigo Bridal Collections

Bridesmaid’s dresses: Sheike

Ben’s apparel: Connor

Caterer: Northern Star Catering

Flowers: Styled By Laura Jane

Cake: Amanda’s Cake Emporium

Hair & Make-up Artist: Demi Ryan

Stationery/Signage: Sarah-Jane VR Photography

Hire Items: Light Me Up Letter Hire

Musician: Tom Harrington

I was excited when Jason and Michelle booked me for their wedding at Harcourt Valley Winery, as this was to be my first time officiating at a wedding there. The winery is nestled amongst ancient redgums (big tick for shade for a Summer wedding!) in a beautiful valley, with distant views of Mt Alexander. It’s an unsurpassed venue for a fun filled, laid back wedding and with Jason and Michelle’s creative flair, they turned it into a fabulous party vibe.

There were bubbles on arrival, and a grazing table and food van for relaxed eating. Michelle made the wedding cake and between them they whipped up a delectable selection for the dessert bar!

We began the ceremony with a cheers proposed by a good friend, then a mild bridal party roast, followed by a light-hearted love story about how these two first chatted when Michelle was just back from overseas and Jason was still in Europe, soon to be returning. Both were dreaming of their next adventure. Little did they know that the greatest adventure of falling in love was just around the corner!

After some quick vows and ring exchange, I pronounced them married and they immediately recessed back down the aisle through the rose petals to “Can’t Stop This Feeling”. We all signed the documents a bit later. Jason and Michelle were able to bask in the moment being announced as Mr and Mrs and to enjoy the congratulations with their guests. The guests were happy as they didn’t need to watch us sign documents either!

After my work was done, I packed up and drove away to the sound of a live band on the verandah as the party vibe was ramping up. Jason and Michelle, thank you for inviting me into your lives and to share in your unique wedding celebrations. It is a day I will always remember!