Denise & Colin’s Classic Summer Wedding in Bowral marked the culmination of a long relationship, blending Southern Highlands scenery with a classic color palette. The couple chose Retford Park and Centennial Vineyards as their venues, favoring locations they had visited together over the years. The event featured a green, white, and burgundy theme, incorporating fruit into floral arrangements to add texture. To further refine the aesthetic, the couple worked with Ivy Lane Collective to ensure the color scheme flowed seamlessly from the ceremony to the reception.
A Proposal with Unexpected Flames
Colin’s plan to propose at a tiny home in the middle of nowhere involved a cosy fire, but his fire-starting skills proved less than impressive. After a failed attempt that led to an enormous blaze, Colin spent a frantic search through the many pockets of his hiking pants. He finally got down on one knee, with Denise initially thinking he was about to fall into the fire. She said yes to the proposal.
Colin opted for a classic black Joe Black suit, complete with a black bow tie, cufflinks, and black leather accessories. Denise found her dream dress at Luv Bridal, a stunning floral jacquard ball gown. She explained that she had always liked ball gowns but tried different styles during fittings, ultimately returning to the classic silhouette. Her mother, who traveled from overseas, was present to help select the gown, a detail that added sentimental value to the shopping trip. Additionally, Denise found her reception dress just a few days before the wedding.
Garden Ceremony and Live Music
The ceremony took place at Retford Park, a National Trust property known for its Portuguese salmon pink building and well-manicured gardens. Guests could stroll through the grounds before the service. The couple wrote their own vows, aiming for an intimate and short declaration of love. Denise walked down the aisle with her father as Elvis Presley’s “Can’t Help Falling In Love” played live, performed by Luminous Strings. The ceremony also included bridal party portraits at the same location to capitalize on the venue’s backdrops.
The vendors played a critical role in managing the weather, which threatened to disrupt the outdoor events. The team adapted to a rain-soaked reception at Centennial Vineyards without issue. The staff at the vineyards were noted for their exceptional food and ability to provide an intimate atmosphere for guests. The couple felt the vendors handled the transition to the indoor reception with professionalism, noting that the change of plan was handled exceptionally well by the team.
Reception Highlights
Centennial Vineyards served as the home base for the reception, offering both indoor and outdoor options. The couple’s first dance was to Radiohead’s “True Love Waits,” a performance they had choreographed themselves. Colin mentioned that Greek dancing was incorporated into the night, and he was surprised by how many guests participated.
Denise and Colin believe the event was special because of the people, the location, and the dancing. They invited only those close to their hearts and chose a location they loved visiting together. The DJ acted as the MC and structured the reception well, while the photo booth assistant was patient with guests. The couple noted that the DJ and photo booth staff were instrumental in making the reception enjoyable, with the photo booth assistant ensuring guests received multiple copies of their photos.
The vendors, Maple & June and the team from Cinemotive, captured the day without forcing unnatural poses. The photographers were described as incredibly polite and professional, even when chaos occurred. The couple felt the day was memorable because they made decisions together to create a vision they shared. Maple & June worked with them as best as possible, helping them interpret instructions and generate the stances required for the perfect shot.
