Kaitlin and Jamie
It seems fitting to share this blog today. I met beautiful Kaitlin one whole year ago, when she and Lois - her gorgeous Mum - were sent over by another vendor to meet me, at the Clare Valley Bridal Fair last year (thanks, Ginger Jar Catering!). Kaitlin bandied around words such as rustic, country, DIY, outdoor ceremony, family farm, and clearly placed the emphasis on family, friends, and fun celebrations. After deciding in about 15 seconds that they were very much my kind of people, I encouraged them to look at my work online, and get back in touch if they thought I was a good match.
Fast forward to now, and I’m thrilled to have recently delivered Kaitlin and Jamie’s wedding memories.
When I arrived at the family farm just out of Laura (think Golden North Icecream fame, in the Mid North of SA), I was greeted by the calmest bride you’d ever hope to meet. She wore a beautiful smile for the whole day, not once getting flustered by the little things that inevitably don’t go to plan. Surrounded by friends and family, it was a joy to take our time to capture the little details, the moments, and the emotion of the morning preparations. It was all about family, and even I felt like an adopted member of the extended group!
Meaningful gestures abounded, from the beautiful poem her Mum had printed and framed, the bridesmaid’s lace belts handmade by Kaitlin’s nana; to the ‘something old’ - an exquisite lace hanky, once belonging to her maternal great grandmother and carried on her wedding day. Kaitlin and her posse had spent many hours making her silk flower bouquets, styling the garden arch for the ceremony, and creating table decorations. Even the bonbonniére on the kid’s table were thoughtful, with little bags containing games, lollies, and bubbles to keep them entertained at the reception.
After a few quick snaps of the groomsmen back at Kaitlin & Jamie’s house, it was time to head to the ceremony in Gladstone. Garry, a dear family friend of the Ballantynes, had painstakingly ensured the park was looking its absolute best for the big day. He’d also arranged to use a beautiful old Jag for the bridal car, and is one of the goodest (totally a word) eggs to ever grace this planet.
The ceremony was held under rapidly darkening skies, with audible thunder. The ink had barely dried on the marriage certificates, before the heavens opened and sent guests scrambling for cover, dumping about an inch of rain in 30mins. It totally washed out our location shoot at the family farm, but we still managed to have some fun with the bridal party and photography shenanigans elsewhere. And, it did mean a good excuse to bust out some gorgeous brolleys. Not a drop had fallen back in Laura, the reception location!
And, what a reception it was! Great fun, with a whole bunch of proper country hospitality. Great food, amazing cake, and a brilliant atmosphere with which to celebrate such a happy occassion.
Kaitlin and Jamie - I wish you every love and happiness in the world, as you start your married lives together. I know I wasn't imagining the heartfelt happiness on the faces of your family and friends for the entire day. I know you can see it also in the photos! From little brothers and sisters, to parents and grandparents, they shared in your joy. Just quietly, I also had to duck into the next room briefly during your bridal dance with your dad. I was a weeping mess & had to regroup (ask your lovely MC; she busted me)! You are both kind and just lovely, and thank you and your families for having welcomed me at your celebrations. It was a joy and a privilege.
H x
Magic-Makers
Celebrant: Roger Kleinig
Photographer: Heidi Hodge Photography
Caterers: Ginger Jar Catering
Cinematographer: Jessica Kazimour
Cake: Kelly Bavistock
Cars: Garry Harris; Mark, Tracey and Finn Cunningham
Hair: Carly Sampson
Makeup artist: Abbey Zanker
Ceremony acoustic guitarist : Russell Willsmore
MC: Robyn Kazimour
Reception music: DJ Shane
Photographic print genius: Blackman Gallery
