Katey and Simon are from opposite ends of the world, but they started a new life all of their own, together here on the Sunshine Coast. So when choosing their Maleny wedding venue, they wanted all their guests travelling from Perth, the UK and South Africa to see just how incredible their new home is.
Meet Cute
“Barry and I met at swimming training in Perth in early 2015. I’m a Perth girl and Barry, who is South African, had recently move there from the UK. Although we came from very different backgrounds, we instantly ‘clicked’ over our mutual love for endurance sports and triathlon.
“In late 2016 we decided to move to the Sunshine Coast, after a brief visit, to start our own life together. Barry proposed to me three days after arriving on my 30th birthday on Fraser Island. It was the best decision we made and we haven’t left!”
The Venue
“We had originally thought we would have a beach wedding. But after going for a long cycle one Sunday up to Maleny we rode past Weddings at Tiffany’s and the view and venue was amazing! We were willing to pay a little extra and be flexible with dates just to have it there. It was the first place we looked at and we booked it that day.”
Images by Nicole Laufer Photography
Stand-out Vendors
“Our photographer, Nicole Laufer, was excellent and all her photos were amazing. None of the images seemed staged and were really relaxed, we wanted something unique that actually looked like us and she definitely delivered. It was almost like she was one of the guests!
“Jamie Fox Higgins through McGee Entertainment – he’s a solo artist but he was amazing! He read the crowd well, you hardly noticed he was there and everyone commented on how great he was. He also took time to come and say hi and check if I needed anything. He was so professional.”
Why Barry’s The One
“Barry makes me laugh and not take life too seriously. Personality wise he is very different than me, but as a team we complement each other. I’ve never been happier and still pinch myself with how lucky I am to have met such a wonderful person.”
Advice for Future Brides and Grooms
“Don’t over plan everything. Just go with the flow on the day; if your guests are having a good time that is all that matters. I also felt it was important to have people there that matter to you and your partner, rather than those who you’re obliged to invite. Controversial, but its your day and you’ll enjoy it far more with good friends and close family.”
Next Adventure
“Well, less than a year later and we’re expecting our first baby in four weeks! Our next adventure will be raising our daughter together, scary but exciting.”
Wedding Secrets
Biggest splurge: The venue, it was absolutely stunning!
Best money-saver: Hiring a private car rather than through a limo company. Also, getting as many things through Etsy as I could.
Bride’s dress: Oxford Bridal in Perth
Bride’s and bridesmaids’ accessories: Various jewellers on Etsy. I wanted something unique and handmade that supported Australian designers.
Bride’s and bridesmaids’ shoes: Spendless Shoes
Bridesmaids’ dresses: Shona Joy
DIY: Invitations, seating chart and table numbers. I designed these on Canva.
Honeymoon: Vanuatu
Number of guests: 80
Wedding budget: $30,000
Actual cost of wedding: $30,000
Photographer: Nicole Laufer Photography | Venue + catering: Weddings at Tiffany’s | Flowers: Tiffany’s Flowers | Cake: Elizabeth & May | Transport: Rideluxe | Hair + makeup: Dot & Birdie | Styling + decor: Weddings at Tiffany’s | Entertainment:Jamie Fox Higgins via McGee Entertainment | Celebrant: Bill Scurry | Wedding night accommodation: Maleny Tropical Retreat
