Rachel and Mathew always had a vision of a casual rustic woodland theme for their wedding day. A ceremony in an intimate space followed by casual outside dining amongst beautiful trees.It was important for them to find a venue that allowed them to include elements that they felt would enhance the casual vibe, where they could do as much DIY as possible whilst still having the wedding of their dreams.
After looking through Facebook and Instagram photos of The Secret Garden, they were quite sure that this was where they wanted to get married, so booked in a tour of the garden.
Just brilliant autumn colour in the Maples
Rachel and Matt fell in love with Megan’s Garden on their first visit. They loved that it was enclosed by hedges, had a beautiful Bhutan Cypress arch for Rachel to walk through along with a feature tree and just the right vibe and energy for their ceremony. The couple completed their vows beneath the majestic Chinese Elm with its gorgeous trunk and mottled bark which, complemented the draping installed in the tree. Mismatched white shabby-chic chairs were placed on the lawn for guests to complete the vision.
a few final touches to guest seating
After mingling and having post-ceremony champagne and canapés in the tree grove, the couple and their guest moved onto the Azalea Lawn where the couple’s family and friends had set up and styled the area for a sit-down reception for 80.
In May, the maples in this lawn are in their full Autumn glory and the backdrop of the tree grove with more rich autumn tones created a magical setting
To enhance the natural surround, Rachel used timber trestle tables, beautifully enhanced with lengths of gauzing off-white fabric, camellia and grey leafed eucalyptus foliage, blush napkins and white crockery. Natural rounds of timber were used to hold shared platters of food. The bridal table was placed in front of a beautiful old maple tree which was decorated with glass balls and rustic hurricane lanterns to provide the perfect backdrop for the newlyweds.
Rustic elements such as vintage metal wheelbarrow for drinks, wooden crates, vintage chairs and pink gumboots all with floral enhancement added to the rustic woodland feel.
vintage chair
The inclusion of a post-ceremony grazing table to allow everyone to mingle, on-site woodfired Pizzas, lunchtime reception and a gorgeous sunny day helped to create a relaxed and casual wedding just as the newlyweds wanted.
We wish Rachel and Matt all the best for their future and as always it was a privilege to be able to help them create the wedding of their dreams.
A few adjustments to the brides dress
Venue: The Secret Garden Wildes Meadow
Celebrant: Martin Kennedy
Photography: Photography by Amye
Florist: Alex Quinn
Equipment Hire: South Coast Party Hire
Styling: Inspire Love Event and Wedding Hire
Grazing Platters: Choice Events Catering
Main Course: Red Belly Pizza
Toilets: Portable Powder Rooms
Sound: Josh Pullin