Erin first contacted me after I photographed her lovely cousin Heidi's wedding early in 2018 in the beautiful Byron Bay Hinterlands. We clicked instantly on the phone and I fell in love with her description of her wedding plans....
A laid back wedding on her brother's property under the shadow of Mount Warning / Wollumbin with a sunset ceremony, twinkling fairy lights, her two Daschunds walking down the aisle, a reception party outdoors in a huge Teepee complete with a vodka shot ceremony, vintage caravan bar, and live music. Um, HELLO PHOTOGRAPHER'S DREAM WEDDING! Seriously, I thought, how lucky am I!?!?
What I didn't know about was Sean's family history, and that Erin was not only marrying him, but officially becoming a caring stepmother to his children. I could tell from the way those kids looked at her throughout the day, that they were just in love with her as Sean was. Erin's vows had everyone in tears (the celebrant and I included). Her vows were made not only to Sean, but to his children as well. And I'm tearing up now remembering her beautiful words....
"Sean, today I have loved you for 1,463 days and from the moment I met you baby I knew I had found my forever person.
I have found my home with you but I have also found myself and my purpose. You took my heart in your hands and made me believe in a love I never thought possible.
...
I vow to fiercely love, support and protect you, in all your forms, now and forever. I vow to never take you or our love for granted and cherish every moment we have, as being in your arms is my favourite place on earth.
The connection we share is like no other. A lot of the time you know me better than I know myself. Your ability to know what I’m thinking even if I don’t say anything reinforces for me that you are always aware and present and I know that sometimes it’s the actions that are done far outweigh the words that are said.
...
You are the most amazing, loving and caring father and I can’t wait to extend our family.
To Flynn and Kain, I vow to you that I will be the best and most supportive stepmother, guardian and role mode I can possibly be. And to Sophia, I promise to be your ultimate cheerleader and confidant. I will always be there for you whenever you need me.
Sean, I promise to give you the best of myself and be true, honest and faithful to you and to still squeeze your butt even when we’re old and wrinkly.
I promise to never say no to pizza and wine and will always forego a romantic night out for a romantic night in, because wherever you are is where I want to be.
I have chosen you to be my only true love, my husband, my best friend and my lover and I will stand proud with this choice each and every day for the rest of my life."
What an incredible day. From the stunning flowers to the beautiful location, the gorgeous light falling on the ceremony at sundown, the emotions felt during the vows and the bride and groom's wonderful welcoming friends and family. I stayed hours past knock off time to party on, grooving on the dancefloor, joining in the polaroid snaps and finally driving an exhausted, loved up and happy Erin and Sean to their doorstop at the very end of the night.
Dress: Made With Love
Flowers: The Posy Collective
Celebrant: Chiquita Mitchell
Musician: Josh Lovegrove
Styling and Planning: Arctic Fox Weddings
Bar: Gathering Events
Catering: 2 Cooks In The Kitchen
Tipi: Gold Coast Tipis
Location: The River Orchard
Prepare yourself for LOTS of doggy spam!....