Wedding date: 05/02/2015
Wedding location: Andy’s parents garden following reception at Carrington’s Pump House.
Number of guests: 90
Wedding budget: 20,000
Wedding cost: 21,000
Tell us a little about…
How you first met…
Andrew and I met while both working at a pak n save. A fresh faced 17 year old I was smitten by his charm and sense of humour. Time passed and we didn’t keep in contact until he managed to get my number off a friend he happened to be flatting with and was very persistent on a date – let’s say it worked!
When you knew it was love…
Our first year of living together, everything just fitted.
The proposal…
Our OE to Europe in our 8th year together, whilst in Ibiza Spain. An electrical storm had just started half way into our favourite cuisine of Japanese. We had won a bottle of bubbles earlier in our trip when Andrew suggested to head to the beach to enjoy and watch the sky lighting up above, it was such a surreal moment when he popped the question then and there.
The ceremony…
Having it over road from our home was quite unique. It’s not often that you are on the same street as your in-laws. They have a beautiful garden which we helped to keep flourishing over the summer in preparation for our relaxed day. It had rained all day prior – which had us seccond guessing the location, but on the day of the wedding it was perfect.
The reception…
Carrington’s Pump house, with its 100 year old building and brick interior we knew it was the rustic venue we were after. We set everything up the night before, including all the flowers from my mother in laws garden. Hessian table runners with rosemary in twine on each plate, candles in jars and lanterns hung from the exposed beams.
What is your favourite memory about the day?
Hard to pin point – but probably having our dog Roxi, running around with the Gopro on her back and capturing some good footage. We didn’t tell anyone about it, so the reactions are hilarious. She loved all the attention too.
What was the best thing about having a backyard wedding?
Casual, relaxed and special having it in the Bell family home.
What made you decide on a backyard wedding?
We had trouble finding a venue that would hold 90 people in our price range. Living two doors down made it easy for everyone to get ready. Andrew and his groomsmen literally walked over the road to the ceremony.
What are some of the challenges that you faced planning a backyard wedding?
Logistics of bathrooms, we hired another. Our road was lucky enough to have parking
What part of the day or planning are you most proud of?
That we did almost everything ourselves and within budget
What were your save and splurge items?
Splurge on the food, save on venue, flowers and drinks.
What advice do you have for couples who are considering a backyard wedding?
If it feels right, and all the logistics work then go for it. Make sure everything is on a run sheet so you can see it all fall into place. Make sure it reflects you as a couple most of all.
The Wedding Team
Wedding Dress and Shoes: Mikaella Bridal, Shoes: Kathryn Wilson
Hair and Makeup: Ashlee Kellet
Groom’s Suit: Barkers
Photographer: Mike Hill & Jake Thomas
Bouquets and Boutonnieres: Boudica Flowers
Table Florals/Centerpieces: Own, from mother in laws garden
Chairs: Local Tennis Club
Decorations: Archway made by Andrew. Rustic shepherd’s hooks – Pretty prop shop hire. Lanterns and candles – own. We made the bunting too.
Officiant: Friend of a friend
Wedding Cake: The Caker