Andrea and Trent dreamt of a private, secluded backyard wedding… And also a beach wedding, and the one thing they were sure of was that they wanted their ceremony and reception in the one place. Their solution? Rent a house on Kawana Beach with a big backyard for their Sunshine Coast wedding on October 16, 2010.
They say their venue was perfect for the relaxed and unique wedding day they desired, and allowed complete seclusion, as the backyard not only had a gorgeous bunch of trees, giving the ceremony site a bush feel, but said trees lead out to a private beach access, where they were able to relax, have a picnic and get some beautiful (and fun) bridal party photos.
As a graphic designer, Andrea’s other major concern was the styling of her wedding. Being able to have complete creative control of the wedding designing and decorating was made easy with the choice of venue.
The other big pro to hiring a beach house was that it really helped keep costs down. Their 60 guests were able to relax and enjoy the canapes Andrea had catered by a friend, help themselves to the well-stocked bar, play pool and listen to playlists the couple had put together themselves and played over a hired sound system. The entire affair came in at around $11,000.
“My earrings and bracelet were Monet and came from Myer, heels from Forever New, my mum made my veil and I also wore a rose gold cuff that has been passed down through the family.”
“The best moment of the day was straight after we were married and we turned to share the celebration with our excited family and friends.”
“Trent and I were introduced by a mutual friend at university, at the pub! We make each other happy every single day regardless of what might be going on in our lives.”
Andrea & Trent’s Wedding Secrets Revealed
Biggest splurge: 5-star honeymoon in Fiji
Biggest bargain: The venue, because it was reasonably priced and allowed them to buy their own alcohol, choose their own caterer, decorate themselves and it doubled as wedding night accommodation.
Andrea’s dress: Nicolina label from Brides of Brisbane
Andrea’s shoes: Forever New
Andrea’s accessories: Monet brand from Myer and family jewellery
Bridesmaids dresses: Myer, embellished by the girls using a pulled apart and sewn back together Equip headband
Groom and Groomsmens’ suits: Roger David
DIY: Flowers, stationery, music, and decorating. A friend did the catering, and another provided the boys’ transport to the house, and yet another did the photography.
Total cost: Approx $11,000, shared between both sets of parents.
Wedding Dream Team
Makeup Artist: Sally Townsend Makeup Artistry
Hair Stylist: Michelle Owens
Rentals: Nomadic Tents and Perry’s Hire
Celebrant: Kate Whitton
Photography: Alex Ball
