Marriage Celebrant

Tom & Ali, Lake Moodemere Reserve, 18 December, 2021

The most chilled out couple ever, Tom and Ali mingled with their immediate family guests before we started the beautiful and simple ceremony by the lake. A thunderstorm brewed and the lake was just as moody as her name, but we got through before the storm. Some nibbles under the shelter, then off to a local eatery for dinner, they enjoyed being able to spend time with those most special to them on their big day. It was a pleasure to be your Celebrant on this special day.

Matt & Bettina, Botanical Gardens Albury, 28 November, 2021

A Sunday morning ceremony followed by a picnic in the beautiful Albury Botanical Gardens was how Matt and Bettina celebrated their wedding. Under beautiful blue skies in perfect weather, they were joined by their two gorgeous daughters and immediate family members. Mikkali Rowe took some amazing photos, and the picnic was beautifully set up and catered for by Your Moment Picnics. A relaxed atmosphere complemented their simple ceremony and the family spent the afternoon enjoying the casual get together. Congratulations Matt and Bettina, and thank you for choosing me as your Celebrant!

Dave & Sharon, Renewal of Vows, 27 November, 2021

To celebrate their 45 year "Sapphire" wedding anniversary, Dave and Sharon chose a Renewal of Vows ceremony at their home. Surrounded by close friends and family, many who they hadn't seen for so long due to lockdowns, the evening was filled with tears, laughter, memories, music and dancing. They celebrated the bond of love that had held them together through all life's ups and downs, and I was honoured to be their Celebrant. Here's to many more happy and healthy years together for these two best mates.

Tim & Mallory, family farm at Mudgegonga, 27 November, 2021

After three date changes due to C-19, this gorgeous couple finally tied the knot at Mallory's family farm at beautiful Mudgegonga in the Victorian high country. Surrounded by green hills and perfect blue sky, the garden was immaculate and the close family and friends had a wonderful afternoon in the garden following the 1pm ceremony. Peter, the farm dog, joined in the ceremony and laughter was all around. A perfect wedding, so relaxed and funny.

Aaron & Gina, 7 Creeks Hotel Euroa, 6 November, 2021

They both "swiped right" and were a match made in heaven! Gina and Aaron celebrated with family and friends, some of who had never met each other due to Covid restrictions. Their ceremony venue was in the lush garden of the historic Seven Creeks Hotel at Euroa, with reception next door at Temple Kitchen function centre. A photo of Gina's dear dad held pride of place on the front row of seats to honour him, and a fun afternoon followed the morning ceremony.

Dayle & Jess, Lake Hume Weir, 25 September, 2021

While Covid-19 can stop many things, it can't stop love! Dayle and Jess had their big wedding planned for this day with all their family and friends. On again, off again, on again (all due to Covid restrictions), they finally made the decision to go ahead on their wedding day with just the minimum number of guests allowed as all they wanted was to be married!
A beautiful ceremony by the foreshore of Lake Hume was just perfect, and the happiness on their faces shone through all afternoon! Congratulations Dayle and Jess!

Graeme & Vicki, private home, 25 September, 2021

"You lose someone, just to find them again, that's how you know it is meant to be".
Graeme and Vicki were school sweethearts, then life took them on their separate ways, only to find each other again. They had a beautiful, simple ceremony at their home with just close family - a perfect story!

Naming Ceremony for Harriet Lee, 3 July 2021

Wearing a beautiful handmade christening gown, made by her great grandmother many years ago, this beautiful girl was the star of the show at her combined naming ceremony and 1st birthday. A quick change of location due to Covid restrictions didn't stop it being an awesome day. (see post below)

Brendan & Carly, private home, 3 July, 2021

Best kept secret ever between the bride and groom, and me! Even the two witnesses didn't know until the ceremony started that this was a wedding! (they thought they were at a rehearsal for the naming ceremony that was to follow).
Held at their home on Saturday morning before the naming ceremony of their daughter, Brendan and Carly tied the knot in a beautiful and simple ceremony with just their two witnesses and myself present. It was perfect and Carly didn't stop smiling all day! They later announced it after their daughter's naming ceremony to a huge applaud, shock and cheers from their family and friends. Way to go Brendan and Carly!

Ben & Orianah, Griffith Golf Club, 9 May, 2021

Luckily tissues were supplied for guests as they were needed in one of the most spiritual and moving ceremonies I have ever been involved in, it was soooooo beautiful! The entry song for bridesmaids was Xavier Rudd's "Spirit Bird" and it was perfect with Orianah's Aboriginal heritage, along with the didgeridoo playing during the signing of certificates. Orianah was accompanied down the aisle by her grandmother (on her 68th wedding anniversary) and it was Mother's Day as well, so a very special Sunday all round. They continued from the ceremony on golf carts for their photos by @Sarah Dissegna Photography, and then joined their guests in a huge marquee on the 1st tee for their reception.

Brandon & Morgan, "Lake Paika Stn", Balranald, 8 May, 2021

A relaxed and fun ceremony in the gardens at "Lake Paika Station" Balranald, with photos by the talented local photographer @Remi Jordan Photography. Morgan's parents surprised the couple with an awesome black Hummer stretch limo for their wedding transport and it was a hit! A large gathering of family and friends enjoyed the afternoon, then headed back to town for the reception at The Royal Hall, which I was privileged to be invited to. An awesome wedding all round! Some of the photos from guests, some from Remi.

Daniel & Dimity, Greenham Park, Balranald, 1 May 2021

"Boho and Woodland" was the theme for this park wedding for Daniel and Dimity. A large bridal party, and lots of family and friends, made for a fun ceremony which flowed into the reception at the same spot. They had some photos taken at the local sawmill by photographer @Anne Marie Photography.

Funeral Service for Kim Gifford, Hay, April 2021

A sad day in my Celebrant career, but very rewarding to be able to give this gentle lady a beautiful farewell at the Hay Cemetery. As I had done Teigan's wedding and knew Kim from years ago, the family felt I would be the right Celebrant for their mum's funeral and I thank them for trusting in me. It was a lovely service and I felt honoured to be a part of it.
RIP Kim. xx

Memorial ceremony for Ron Duffy, "Paika Station" 24 April, 2021

aDear family friend, Ronald (Duff) Duffy had his wish to be buried at "Lake Paika Station", Balranald, fulfilled when we had a small ceremony for the interment of his ashes on 24 April. I officiated, and close friends did readings to say farewell to this bush larrikin. RIP Duff.

Matt & Hayley, family farm at Whitton, 17 April, 2021

I love country weddings and this one was exceptional! The relaxed vibe, beautiful setting beside the river, friendly guests and perfect weather made Matt and Hayley's wedding ceremony just perfect. The girls arrived on the back of the restored family truck, a bit of country music was played, beers and boots aplenty, then off to the Whitton Hall for their reception. Photos by awesome photographer Eleisha @ E.M. Photography.

Ryan & Teigan "reaffirmation ceremony", Hay, 3 April, 2021

With their wedding in May 2020, Ryan and Teigan could only have ten people present, so they had a reaffirmation ceremony, complete with bridesmaids and groomsmen, family and friends, dinner and dancing. On a hot 36 degree autumn Easter Saturday, it was absolutely perfect and they finally got to have the "wedding" of their dreams. Their photographer was @Sally Duggan Photography.

Keegan & Bryonie, Splitters Creek Vineyard, 19 March, 2021

A simple wedding ceremony with close family and friends on this perfect Friday afternoon in March. The rustic tones of Splitters Creek Vineyard, the Irish family guests and their awesome sense of fun, and the perfect autumn weather made Keegan and Bryonie's ceremony so beautiful. Their relaxed dress outfits were awesome, and suited them and their day to a tee! Unfortunately my face was blown up massively due to dental treatment, but I managed to get through ok. They engaged exciting local photographer @Natasha Larsen Photography who took some amazing moody photos - the others are from my phone.

Ross & Kate, "Waddingtons at Kergunyah", 13 March, 2021

A favourite place of mine, the gardens of Waddingtons at Kergunyah, provided the perfect setting for Ross and Kate's wedding. With the children as attendants, the weather was perfect - for a while that is! We had almost finished the ceremony when a wild autumn storm ripped down the hill and shook things up a bit! But it was perfect and the beautiful bride did not wipe the smile off her face all day long. An avid car lover, Ross organised the perfect beasts for the wedding transport. Some photos by @Teala Lee Photography, and some from my camera.

Chris & Martika, riverside at Balranald, 27 February, 2021

Beside the beautiful Murrumbidgee River at Balranald, Chris and Martika's ceremony was filled with love and laughter! Lots of friends and family gathered, their children were involved all through the ceremony, and they had a family sand ceremony to have as a keepsake forever. A reception at the Royal Hall was held, where Martika's son sang for their bridal waltz, it was so moving. Tika's dad, Jim, was proud to have his fleet of big rigs as the wedding transport!
@Loose Canon Images from Mildura captured lots of great photos for them to treasure forever!

Memorial Service for Pauline Sawyer, 21 February, 2021

With Covid in full force when Pauline passed away in 2020, her family were not able to have the service Pauline wished for her farewell, so a beautiful memorial service was held on Sunday 21 February. All the family, friends and work colleagues gathered at the Springdale Heights Tavern for an afternoon of memories and tributes. I was honoured to be asked to officiate at this ceremony.

Ky & Morgan, private property at Kiewa, 20 February, 2021

A perfect summer day by the beautiful Kiewa River, saw Ky and Morgan marry with just immediate family present. Their beautiful and intimate ceremony was captured perfectly by the awesome photographer @Jason Robins Photography, who happily transported them to the mountain top to capture some spectacular wedding photos. After the ceremony, they enjoyed some beautiful platters and bubbles by the river before the photo session.

Funeral Service for Ronald Duryea, Balranald, 19 February, 2021

My first ever funeral service was a rewarding, albeit sad, milestone for me. Called upon by the family to be Celebrant at the funeral of my very close cousin Ron (Budda) Duryea in my hometown was an absolute honour, and I felt privileged to pay last homage to him in a beautiful farewell for this much-loved larrikin. A warm, loving, and at times funny, service was applauded by all and left me feeling proud that I gave Ronald the send-off he deserved. xxx RIP mate

Carl & Mikkaelie, private garden Thurgoona, 16 January, 2021

Just when we thought Covid had gone away, another border restriction hit as these two were about to get married in Mikki's home town of Dubbo - while the wedding could still go ahead, Carl would have had to isolate for 2 weeks before returning to work in Wodonga. After several date changes previously, they just wanted to get married! A transfer of NOIM from their Dubbo Celebrant to me, and just like that we had a wedding! It was a beautiful intimate gathering in their back yard, with family and friends, photos at Wonga Wetlands by the talented @Chlo & Co Photography, then dinner at a restaurant to celebrate! Some pics from my phone too.

2020 - a year we will never forget when our lives changed in ways we could never had predicted. Plan, change, alter, postpone, reduce, relocate, etc etc - it was a minefield for the wedding industry!
But, I was extremely happy to still officiate at 14 weddings in this crazy year, with another 4 of my clients postponing until they can have the wedding of their dreams! I thank you all for your support, and I am glad I was flexible enough to change with you.
My 2020 weddings are below for you to enjoy!

Johan & Deidre, Brown's Lagoon Albury, 31 December, 2020

What better way to finish this crazy year than with a wedding on New Year's Eve!! Another change of date and change of location from the original winery location, again due to Covid, but it worked out perfectly. They had a large gathering of family and friends under a very beautiful tree for the ceremony, then headed off into Albury CBD for reception and to see the new year in!

David & Sarah, Wagga RSL Club, Wagga, 31 October, 2020

A quick trip to Wagga in the evening, I rocked up at David's Halloween themed 50th birthday party in full Halloween disguise. No-one knew there was a stranger in their midst, and they all got a shock when we proceeded to perform a surprise wedding for David and Sarah - with only their two best friends and their kids knowing what was to happen. It was a fun night all round and these crazy two ended up like my best friends after months of date and location changes, again due to Covid.

Simon & Kelly, City Central Church, Albury, 31 October, 2020

Changing from Beechworth, Vic, into Albury due to the ongoing Covid rules saw Simon and Kelly hold their ceremony at the amazing City Central Church Hall in Albury and it was perfect. They headed off to the Botanical Gardens for photos between thunderstorms, and then a dinner at the Atura, so all ended up with a great day for their guests.

Jack & Freya, "Rosewhite House", Rosewhite, 24 October, 2020

Jack and Freya also had to change their wedding plans due to Covid, but they ended up with the ultimate "bestie weekend" ever. They were limited to ten people at their wedding, so booked out the gorgeous Rosewhite House BnB and had the weekend with their eight best friends, who were all in the wedding party! I rocked up and officiated the service and left them to a weekend of fun with games, food and drinks! Way to go Jack and Freya!

Andrew & Rochelle, Noreuil Park, Albury, 22 October, 2020

With change of date and location, Andrew and Rochelle finally got to marry on a beautiful Thursday afternoon by the mighty Murray River at Albury's Noreuil Park. The sun was shining brilliantly, and it was a happy celebration of their love amongst lots of family, friends and bubbles. Here's some pics from the awesome @Peter Charlesworth Photographer

Ryan & Ella, "Queen's Park", Hillston, 10 October, 2020

A roadtrip to the beautiful little town of Hillston on a perfect spring day to officiate at the intimate wedding of Ryan and Ella was right up my ally! Held on Ella's family farm, "Queen's Park", with abundant wheat crop and rolling hills in the background and a catered marquee for their reception, it was just perfect. Ella had her 3 sisters as her bride tribe, and Jorja sang for both the ceremony and reception. Beautiful photos by @Mikkali Rowe Photography

Beau & Kristy, "Impimi", Balranald, 5 September, 2020

I was very excited to travel to my home town and officiate for this gorgeous couple out at the farm. The weather was perfect, close friends and family gathered, and the wedding cars were awesome big rigs (as Beau is a truck driver). Awesome photos taken by @Libby Kelly Photography perfectly captured the love of these two and their combined family of children.

David & Trish, private home Albury, 29 August, 2020

Originally planned for a ceremony and reception at The Albury Club, restrictions made the date and place impossible, so David and Trish opted for an intimate ceremony in their home with just their immediate family present - and it was perfect! They invited me for bubbles and nibbles after the ceremony, and then they all went out to a fine restaurant to celebrate! Sometimes changing your original plan works out just beautifully!

Jarrod & Caitlin, Albury Botanical Gardens, 15 August, 2020

After changing dates and location due to Covid, Jarrod and Caitlin finally got to marry in a beautiful setting at the Albury Botanical Gardens - just before a big thunderstorm pelted down! With their little boy at their side, and close family and friends gathered, it was a perfect celebration of their love and family. Accompanied by her brother (as dad was in lockdown) Caitlin didn't stop her beautiful smile all day!

Ryan & Teigan, private garden, Hay, 30 May, 2020

Brought forward from their planned date of Easter 2021 due to family illness, Ryan and Teigan had an intimate Covid imposed guest list of just ten of their immediate family, with social distancing in place (and some family and friends watching over the fence from the neighbour's garden and street). No-one wanted to miss this hitching, and they didn't as a live stream Facebook link was in place. These two lovebirds then had a reaffirmation ceremony in Easter 2021, and a big party with all their family and friends.

Austin & Olivia, "Orange Grove Gardens", 21 March, 2020

Lucky for Austin and Olivia, they held their wedding just before the hard Covid lockdown - but rules were in place and we had to warn guests re social distancing, hugs and hand-sanitising! Country people do it best, and their day and night at the beautiful Orange Grove function centre went off without a hitch!

Bobby & Laura, At The Heads, Barwon Heads, 6 March 2020

It might sound biased, but my favourite wedding and proudest Celebrant moment, was when I got to officiate at the wedding of my youngest son, Bobby, as he wed the love of his life, Laura. By the beach at the stunning "At The Heads" function centre, a large gathering of family and friends enjoyed this beautiful ceremony, complete with Kombi Keg and acoustic muso - it was absolutely perfect. Some photos by @Monika Berry Weddings Photography

Noel & Louii, private garden at Lavington, 29 February, 2020

This crazy pair took a "leap of love" and married on Leap Year 29 February! They transformed their Lavington garden into a perfect place for their relaxed and super fun wedding - it doesn't matter how old you are, love wins! I had the best afternoon with these two and their family, moving from the front garden to the back yard for their party.

Sam & Samantha, ShadowFax Wines, Werribee, 11 January 2020

2020 kicked off beautifully with a gorgeous ceremony full of fun, laughter, family and friends as the two Sams got hitched. The stunning ShadowFax Wines at Werribee, Victoria, was a picture perfect location and a great way to start my Celebrant year. @Journey By Light Photography captured some great images.

2019 - #MyHappyPlace - my Celebrant business grew steadily and I loved it more each time I got to officiate. 2019 saw ten weddings and a baby naming ceremony! Check them out below!

Conan & Abbey, The Albury Club, 16 November, 2019

My last wedding for the 2019 season was an exquisite wedding inside The Albury Club, where an entire room was transformed overnight into a beautiful setting for Co and Abbey to be wed. With their siblings as witnesses, it was a very heartfelt and beautiful ceremony, later celebrated in the rose garden outside. Stunning! Pics by @Peter Charlesworth Photography.

Anthony & Kate Rollings, "Orange Grove", 9 November 2019

The beautiful "Orange Grove Gardens" at Culcairn was the venue for Anthony and Kate to tie the knot. Walked down the homestead stairs by her two brothers, and accompanied down the aisle by her gorgeous son, Lenny, in a refurbished antique pram, the scene was set for a perfect wedding day!

Kade & Meg Passlow, Maxwell, 2 November 2019

Wild, wet, windy - the weather on the hill at Kade and Meg's farm proved difficult, but the love, laughter and close family present definitely conquered any bad weather. It was a beautiful ceremony with only their kids and closest family at the ceremony, later joined by all their friends and family at the Maxwell Hall for the reception.

Brenton & Karlie Rowe, Pental Island, Swan Hill, 26 October 19

It was an honour to officiate for these two whom I had watched grow up from teenagers into fine young adults. An amazing private home in Swan Hill offered the perfect "Bali style" wedding ceremony location right there in the country, before they headed to Pental Island Caravan Park for their reception. Photos courtesy of Cassie at Koko Photography, Bendigo

Nathan & Amelia Finnen, "Gateway Village" Wodonga, 5 Oct 2019

Great mates, relaxed vibe and beautiful weather made Nathan and Amelia's day just perfect! Photo courtesy of Annabel Lugsdin Photography

Joe & Natalie Brentnall, Soap Works Bend, Hay, 24 August, 2019

An intimate ceremony with family and close friends on the river bank at Hay in perfect autumn weather. Joe and Nat had a beautiful day leading into a fabulous party with lots of friends! Photo courtesy of Jan Jacka Photography

Matt & Bec Carnall, "Botanical Gardens" Albury, 6 April, 2019

Absolutely perfect autumn weather made the wedding of Matt and Bec just magical, surrounded by the beautiful surrounds of Albury's Botanical Gardens. Photos courtesy of David Gordon Photos

Luke & Tatum McMonigle, Whorouly, 9 March, 2019

On a hilltop, in a paddock, on a 5 generation family farm - what a magical day it was for Luke and Tatum.....such a fun and relaxed ceremony, followed by their reception in a big marquee, surrounded by campervans, tents and swags for the stayers. Photos courtesy of Pictures of You Photography (and some snaps from my phone camera)
click on photos to enlarge

David & Tania Walther, "Orange Grove Gardens" 16 March, 2019

The beautiful "Orange Grove Gardens", Culcairn, was the setting for David and Tania's wedding - photos courtesy of Peter Charlesworth Photographer (and Celebrant's phone)
click on pictures for englargement

Andrew & Michelle Bishop, home garden Wodonga, 6 April, 2019

A simple and heartfelt service in their own garden, surrounded by family and close friends, was how Andrew and Michelle chose to celebrate their special day. It was such a fun ceremony with lots of laughs to start their married life together.

2018 - my first year as a Celebrant after becoming registered in February 2018! 4 weddings - two in my home town - I was very happy with that! See my 2018 weddings below.

Marc & Sarah Campbell, "Lake Paika", Balranald, 10 March 2018

An amazing day for my first wedding ceremony! Long time friends Marc and Sarah placed faith in me and trusted me to do their ceremony even though it was my very first! I thank them eternally for this opportunity. They had a huge gathering of family and friends on a perfect autumn day, and I could not be happier with the result. These photos courtesy of @Love By Shae Photography.
......click on pictures for enlargement and details.....

Mitch & Tavia Slee, "Lake Paika", Balranald, 17 March 2018

Mitch and Tavia had a beautiful ceremony with lots of laughs........ the historic "Lake Paika Station" at Balranald provided excellent backdrops for these awesome photos courtesy of Rick Bentley Photography
click on the photos for enlargement and details......

Lawrie & Taylor Butler, "La Maison", Wodonga, 12 May 2018

A beautiful service was created for this amazing couple of 30+ years together. The rain forced us inside the historic stone cottage for the ceremony, but it was still perfect!
click on the photos for enlargement and details......