Bride & Groom — Echuca-Moama 2023

ECHUCA-MOAMA

REAL WEDDINGS

2023/2024 EDITION

FASHION

PLANNING

WELCOME AFTER 18 YEARS OF MARRIAGE, WRITING THIS ISSUE OF BRIDE AND GROOM, ECHUCA MOAMA, BROUGHT BACK MEMORIES OF MINE AND MY BELOVED’S BIG DAY.

6 COVER

Photography: Jamie Johnston from Country Mile Photography

At the time, unfortunately a Echuca-Moama riverside wedding was not on our outlook, opting for the registry office and dinner with friends.

For Bethany and Peter Saint’s riverside wedding (page 6), Perricoota Station was the only place they ever considered to get married.

Perricoota Station gave the Saints the perfect venue that wasn’t too much country, but still elegant and beautiful, River romance awaits (page 30).

For a bride, one of the most important things is her dress.

Like Bethany, I too had my dress handmade to fit my body and shape, but it did not have detachable sleeves or 3D motifs, which are the current trends in wedding dresses (page 19).

It is a personal regret that the beloved’s linen suit jacket went to the op shop, as they are now the ideal wedding outfit for men, in What suits you? (page 16).

Timbercutter Cafe, Bar and Function Centre is the most unique setting to hold your wedding (page 24).

Set on the junction of the Murray River and Edward River, among the red gum forest you won’t find a location and venue like The Timbercutter.

When you get married you shouldn’t just have a big day, you should have at least a big weekend or couple of days.

Ideally holding a recovery breakfast, brunch or lunch the day after your wedding at The Timbercutter to spend more time with family and friends.

The recovery breakfast, brunch or lunch is touched on in Catering for all tastes (page 10), but to impress your guests a three-course sit down dinner, with extra canapés and an up-graded drinks package is unpassable.

Here’s to long and happy marriages.

Jaci Hicken Journalist

2 // bride and groom

28 CONTENTS Bethany and Peter Saint

6

Catering for all tastes

10

What’s hot for hair

14

What suits you?

16

Dazzling dresses

19

Natural setting for your dream day

22

Stunning venue among the gum tress

24

The ideal wedding plan

26

Couples extending honeymoons

28

Riverside romance awaits

30

12 19

EDITOR

Kylie Pogue WRITER

Jaci Hicken

24

DESIGN

McPherson Media Group ADVERTISING

Laura Buckly Kerry Vevers Jaimie Orr 5482 1111 PUBLISHED BY

Riverine Herald PUBLISHED BY

Riverine Herald PO Box 21, Echuca, Victoria, 3564 5482 1111

bride and groom // 3

A dream come true

Goolwa River Retreat specialises in making your beautiful wedding dreams a reality.

Photos: Meg Byrnes Artistry (make-up), Deblus and Made with Love Bridal (bridal gowns), Joe Black (suits), Lowevly (flowers), Kim Fletcher Millinery (head wear), and Love by Shae (photography).

Build your dream wedding...

Surrounded by the soothing sounds of the Australian bush, this 8.9 hectare (22 acre) property provides a peaceful, private and spacious setting to exchange. The picturesque venue has the capacity to host the reception, ceremony and after-party all in one place, making it a practical and convenient choice.

Owner Nicole Weightman said a big part of the charm of the venue was the wedding could be tailored to suit the bride and groom’s preferences.

“It’s really up to you and what you want, whether that be a marquee, tents, a sit-down wedding or a standing wedding, a riverside wedding, or a wedding on the lawn - we will work with you to achieve that.

“Our venue is special because we do allow you to build your own dream wedding.”

The largest marquee can accommodate up to 375 standing guests or 250 seated guests. Delightful riverside cottages are available on-site for newlyweds and loved ones to rent overnight, as well as an option for guests to park their caravans or campers on the lawn for the duration of the night. Each cottage has its own private spa for guests to star gaze from, as well as a fire pit to get cozy around.

With packages ranging from budget-conscious to grandiose this venue caters to all budgets, wedding sizes and desired aesthetics.

Add-on breakfast and limousine transport packages are available upon request.

“We do not dictate how your wedding should be run,” Nicole said.

Goolwa River Retreat is located at 150 Sexton Rd, Torrumbarry - just 20 minutes west of Echuca.

0417 472 791 info@goolwariverretreat.com.au 150 Sexton Rd Torrumbarry VIC 3562 www.goolwariverretreat.com.au

0418 368 591 info@emlimos.com.au Echuca, Moama & surrounds www.echucamoamalimousines.com.au

Love Goolwa xx

83920

Nestled on the banks of the Murray River, in Torrumbarry, wedding guests will be captivated by the picture perfect beauty of the estate - the breathtaking scenery, the adorable wildlife dotted around the property and the tranquil rustling of gum trees in the distance.

6 // bride and groom

REAL WEDDING

STORY: JACI HICKEN // PHOTOGRAPHY: JAMIE JOHNSTON FROM COUNTRY MILE PHOTOGRAPHY

BETHANY AND PETER SAINT THE ONLY PLACE BETHANY AND PETER SAINT LOOKED AT TO HOLD THEIR WEDDING WAS PERRICOOTA STATION.

“Pretty much, it was the very first venue that we looked at and as soon as we saw it, we just fell in love with it,” Bethany said.

“We never envisioned a beach or a winery wedding and Peter and I, we just love going up to the river and enjoying our time there.

“We wanted something that wasn’t too much of a country vibe, but still really elegant and beautiful.

“And we thought Perricoota was exactly that.”

The bride and groom from Kilmore travelled to Echuca Moama with their families, with guests travelling from Melbourne, Coffs Harbour and England.

Being from out of the area guests stayed across Echuca and Moama, with two buses running them to and from the site.

“There were about 130 guests at our wedding,” Bethany said.

“The bridal party stayed, us girls, in Watson’s House the first night and then some of our guests took it over on the wedding night.

“My husband and I then stayed in the bridal suite and the rest of our family stayed in the other rooms.”

The bridal suite is the beautifully restored Valencia Room, in The Quarters at Perricoota Station.

“At the start of the day, we got up nice and early for hair and make-up,” Bethany said.

“It was a really beautiful sunny morning.

“It was fantastic, a really relaxed vibe, we had champagne, grazing boards, the music

going, it was absolutely amazing.

“I was actually really relaxed and surprisingly, I didn’t think I would be that relaxed, but it was great.

“And then right as I walked out the door to get in the car, it started to rain.

“That was a little bit of stress, but luckily, it eased off by the time of the ceremony.”

This was surprising, as the Saint’s wedding was held in February.

“It was 40 degrees everyday that week, beautiful, sunny and on that Saturday, it was like 27 and raining,” Bethany said.

“I actually had brought umbrellas, in case it was too hot and instead we had to use them for the rain.”

Taking full advantage of the riverfront, the weather held off for the ceremony.

“The one thing I did miss right at the start of the day was that because, we basically jumped into a couple of cars and got down to the ceremony.

“The boys borrowed a friend’s, we call it the party boat, but it is like a barge type boat as they were staying at Deep Creek Marina,” Bethany said.

“They caught that boat from Deep Creek Marina to the ceremony.

“We had music playing and when they pulled up in the boat all the guests saw them pull up, so they had their little moment of attention as well.”

Once the ceremony was completed guests gathered on the lawn around the caravan bar

for drinks and canapés, while photos were being taken, before the rain set in again and the guests headed inside The Packing Shed for the reception.

“We really loved the idea, that on the off chance that it was raining, we could have the beautiful option inside as well and make that work,” Bethany said.

“The big veranda overlooking the river, it was beautiful out there.

“We loved that we didn’t have to do too many decorations in the venue, it was beautiful the way it was with the fairy lights.

“We had more flowers brought in after the ceremony to have more decorations around the venue.

“They had a neon sign that was put up on the greenery wall and we made that an opportunity for photos.

“Everybody else crowded around in different areas near the bar and obviously the dance floor as well.”

The Saints opted for a stand-up cocktail wedding, with some seating for guests when they needed to get off their feet, but no designated seats.

The reception started at 6pm with the cake cutting and speeches.

“We all did individual entrances with our own individual songs to make it a bit fun,” Bethany said.

“We wanted more of a party fun vibe.

“We didn’t want to make it too forced by everyone sitting down. »

bride and groom // 7

“We have a lot of family and friends that love a good drink and dance, so that is why we decided to do speeches right at the start.

At this point the couple was supposed to take their sunset photos, but the rain returned.

“Then the photographer went ‘it’s stopped raining, let’s get out there now’,” Bethany said.

“We were able to get sunset photos, it was a little bit overcast, but we still got the shots.

“We really love the sunset photos, we did them in the paddock area in front of the venue.

Bethany thought the photographer, Jamie from Country Mile Photography, was amazing and the day would not have been so smooth without him.

“I obviously started stressing about the rain and what was going on and he was like ‘don’t worry about it, we will work it out’ and it was just great,” she said.

“And he was so much fun to be around.

“He made the photos look so natural because Peter and I can be a little nervous in front of the camera.”

A highlight of the evening was not the bride and groom’s first dance, but the father daughter dance.

“I surprised Dad, he didn’t know what song we were doing, he was very nervous, thinking what are you doing to me, but I picked

an upbeat song, so it wasn’t like a formal type dance, we just danced like we would normally dance.

“Everyone said it was the best dance ever.”

Bethany wore a Mariana Hardwick strapless classic wedding dress with no extra detail and a split up the left hand side.

“I love the process of getting my wedding dress made, they built it exactly to my size and my shape,” she said.

“My dress was absolutely stunning, I loved it.

“I had a pearl veil that went with the dress, then I had pearl high heels as well, because of the split, I sort of went with a bit of a theme, but keeping that classic look.

“With my dress as well, in the ceremony, I had little cap sleeves that hung off the side of my shoulders.

“But once we got into the reception, I removed those, you could remove the sleeves, and I changed into different pearl shoes.

“Then I took my veil off and put on a pearl headband.

“So I had a slightly different look for the reception, a bit more of a party fun vibe.

“I kept my dress on all night and I loved it.

The bride and the bridesmaids’ hair was by Ash from Aspire Boutique.

The bridesmaids were dressed in champagne pink and the boys wore classic black suits with white shirts and bow ties.

Weddings on the banks of the Murray River Ceremony | Reception | Accommodation

Photograph by “Pure Mac Photography”

Get married in a ceremony where the backdrop is the majesty of the Murray River.

Indulge yourself and your guests with your reception in our stunning, silk-lined marquee.

And do this all within walking distance of our self-contained modern villa apartments.

03 5483 6888 www.tindarra.com.au events@tindarra.com.au

95622

Everything you need for your wedding day in the one venue — at Tindarra Resort.

I just love all things weddings!

Hi there, Congratulations & happy planning! Whether it’s organising an intimate elopement or the whole shebang, I’m there for you. In a garden, a park, on the river or your favourite venue, I’m there.

I am based in Echuca, however, always happy to travel wherever you take me. I absolutely love my work as a Celebrant & know you will too.

Let’s create the perfect ceremony together, in fact why not make your ceremony totally, unapologetically and authentically you.

0407 433 321 teresa@tccelebrancy.com.au tccelebrancy.com.au 87243

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Hey, I’m open to themed weddings also, throw out the rule book and let’s have the best fun filled day. An abundance of love, laughter, and plenty of memorable moments to give you and your guests something to talk about for years to come.

I look forward to meeting you both soon.

Tracie Kyne Celebrant www.traciekynecelebrant.com.au

M: 0472 780 055

bride and groom // 9

96591

96591

Image by: Sophie O’Keefe

ON THE MENU

CATERING FOR ALL TASTES TO IMPRESS YOUR GUESTS A THREE-COURSE SIT DOWN MEAL WITH CANAPÉS AND EXTRA DRINK CHOICES ARE A POPULAR CHOICE AT YOUR WEDDING.

Radcliffe’s function manager Kerry Howlett knows that this is what the majority of couples are doing.

“They are taking up the ‘superior package’ with a full sit down three-course dinner and Gold drinks package,” Kerry said.

“They are wanting to impress their guests.

“We do have some finger food weddings coming up, but not too many.

“I think if people start looking for cheaper options there may be a move more towards finger food.”

If you want to go all out and impress your guests the superior package includes canapés and a champagne station for guests on arrival, followed by a three-course alternative service of entrée, mains and dessert.

The gold drinks package contains Radcliffe’s beers, 5 seeds cider, house wines, plus a choice 10 // bride and groom

of two red and two white wines from their premium list.

“We can choose from the menu, usually served alternatively,” Kerry said.

“This is not set in stone, but common choices are the scotch fillet or blacken salmon for mains, pork belly or gnocchi for entrée.”

Dessert can be your cake plated and served to guests or an alternative served dessert, then wedding cake.

Kerry has seen a rise in the number of dietary requirements at weddings.

“When you have a sit down meal service wedding at Radcliffe’s we prepare special meals to meet all dietary requirements,” she said.

Dietary requirements can be anything, from personal choice, through to meals needing to be prepared in kitchens free of allergens.

Offering a plant based only meal option for vegans, as well people with gluten-free intolerance are becoming more and more common.

Venues around Echuca-Moama are also seeing a trend in recovery breakfasts or the day after brunches.

This is where the wedding party and some or all of their guests gather the day after the wedding for a more informal get together.

Options for a recovery breakfast include breakfast or brunch buffets of all the breakfast delights; eggs, bacon, beans, toast, pancakes and berries.

Another option is booking a table at your favourite café, with guests ordering off the menu.

ON THE MENU

bride and groom // 11

R AA D DC C LL II FF FF EE '' SS R Simply beautiful. Stunningly romantic.

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RADCLIFFE'S

Not your average wedding venue, Radcliffe's sits Not your average wedding venue, Radcliffe’s sits Not your average wedding venue, Radcliffe's and sits in in the the heart heart of of Echuca's Echuca’s famous famous port port district district and in the a heart of Echuca's famous port districtseen and offers offers a unique unique atmosphere atmosphere which which must must be be seen offers a unique atmosphere which must be seen to tobe bebelieved. believed.

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If you imagine the possibilities, we'll take care of the rest.

If you imaginesits the possibilities, we'll take care of the rest.

Not your average wedding venue, Radcliffe's Not average wedding venue, Radcliffe’s sits in theyour heart of Echuca's famous port district and in theaheart of Echuca’s famous district andtour or to chat with our experienced offers unique atmosphere which must bea seen Toport arrange free offers a unique atmosphere which must be seen Toarrange arrange freetour touror orto tocall chat with6720 ourexperienced experienced aafree chat with our to be believed.To Function Coordinators 5480 or visit to be believed. Function Function Coordinators call 5480 6720 orvisit visit Coordinators call 5480 6720 or www.radcliffes.com.au If you imagine the possibilities, we'll take care of the rest. www.radcliffes.com.au www.radcliffes.com.au

RADCLIFFE'S

Simply beautiful. Stunningly romantic.

To arrange a free tour or to chat with our experienced MOBILE CATERING FOR ALL OCCASIONS: Function Coordinators call 5480 6720 or visit

Not your average wedding venue, Radcliffe's sits www.radcliffes.com.au • WEDDINGS in the heart of Echuca's famous port district and • CORPORATE EVENTS offers a unique atmosphere which must be seen to be believed.

If you imagine the possibilities, we'll take care of the rest.

To arrange a free tour or to chat with our experienced Function Coordinators call 5480 6720 or visit www.radcliffes.com.au

• BIRTHDAYS

• CLUB DINNERS

• FUNCTIONS

• SOCIAL EVENTS

To arrange a free tour or to chat with our experienced Function Coordinators call 5480 6720 or visit www.radcliffes.com.au

HAIRSTYLES

14 // bride and groom

HAIRSTYLES

WHAT’S HOT FOR HAIR BRIDE AND GROOM SAT DOWN WITH HAKKA HAIR DESIGN SENIOR STYLIST CHLOE HEALEY TO DICOVER WHAT’S IN FOR BRIDAL HAIR THIS SEASON.

“I think that the trend has slightly changed and we are going back to that Marilyn Monroe vibe,” Chloe said.

“Lots of hair ups and modernised French rolls type hair up is a very big thing at the moment.

“It has gone back to that look again this coming season.

“It depends on the bride as well, because a lot of them have their own style.

“A lot of hair is soft, soft hair, with flowing waves and bits pulled out.

“It is going between one or the other, traditional or a bit softer.”

For softer hair, natural and effortless looks are in, with loose waves and braids being popular.

Soft and romantic styles with flowers and simple objects, like classic pearls, add a touch of femininity to a bride’s hair on their big day.

For a more dramatic wedding look, elaborate up-dos are making a comeback.

A traditional Monroe bob is a hairstyle that is never too polished, which is the magic that keeps it feeling modern.

“I think the times of having glittery, diamanté hair pieces are gone,” Chloe said.

“But people do put fresh flowers, little pearls and simple little things in their hair.

“They don’t really have massive head pieces, like what they used to.

“We do quite a lot of ponytails too, big glamorous ponytails.

“You can get extensions for ponytails, depending on how much hair you have.

“If your hair is not long or thick enough you can add extensions to get the look you want,” she said. bride and groom // 15

GET THE LOOK

WHAT SUITS YOU? JOE PAUL MENSWEAR OWNER PAUL KAPSALIS KNOWS WHAT’S ON TREND FOR MEN THIS WEDDING SEASON

“The two biggest looks, I would say, is the beige linen which is very strong with black fitted chinos, white or ivory shirt depending upon the bride’s dress and black bow tie,” Paul said.

“Or a complete classic black tuxedo with satin lapels, white shirt, black buttons and black bow tie.

“They are the two most popular looks that are on trend at the moment.”

Making the most out of the look, Joe Paul Menswear has designed and created its own beige linen blazer.

The quality linen blazer is fully lined, breathable and beautiful, perfectly suited to a river side wedding this season.

“The other suit that is outstanding, that we have done and works really well, is our Joe Paul black suit,” Paul said.

“This runs alongside the tuxedo for a wedding.

“If they are doing the tuxedo look, they want a nice black suit for the groomsmen.

“The tuxedo makes the groom stand out from the groomsmen, it is his point of difference.

“They both have black suits, but the groom has got the satin lapel, with the tux giving him that more polished next step.

Paul highlighted that their range of wedding apparel is available across all Joe Paul menswear stores.

“The great thing about us, is you can ask your groomsmen, if they are coming from Bendigo, Shepparton or Echuca, to pop in for a fitting and their suits will be available across all our stores.

Joe Paul — Pure linen blazer; Boston — White shirt; Daniel Hechter — Black chinos; Fellini — Black bow tie.

16 // bride and groom

FASHION

Saville Row luxury tuxedo; Gerase — Body fit white shirt with optional black buttons; Fellini — Black bow tie.

bride and groom // 17

THE LEADING MEN’S FASHION HOUSE IN VICTORIA

131 Hare Street, Echuca | 5480 6557 202 Maude Street, Shepparton | 5821 5556 268 Hargreaves Street, (Mall) Bendigo sales@joepaulmenswear.com.au |

97157

• ECHUCA • SHEPPARTON • BENDIGO

DAZZLING DRESSES WEDDING DRESSES ARE AN INDIVIDUAL’S CHOICE, BUT SOMETIMES WHAT YOU BELIEVE WOULD SUIT YOU, ISN’T ALWAYS THE CASE.

Deblu’s wedding gown with a strapless petal trill bodice and detachable sleeves.

Layered full skirt with sequin embroidery over an underlayer of sparkles.

bride and groom // 19

GET THE LOOK

Delbu’s Wedding Dreams offers well-tailored wedding gowns to suit all brides, no matter the look they are after for their big day.

“It is individual to each bride and what she wants,” Delbu’s Wedding Dreams owner Debbie Grove said.

“Sometimes brides come in thinking they want one thing and in turn leave with a totally different look, as they have changed their minds to the look they are after.

“They can start trying on layered, puffy wedding dresses and end up going to a more slinky, smooth dress.

“We are seeing garden weddings and more traditional church weddings.”

Debbie is seeing two trends emerge this year in wedding gowns.

“There was a move towards puffy sleeves, but that wasn’t popular even though brides came in thinking that was what they wanted,” she said.

“Wedding dresses are now being made with detachable sleeves.

“The sleeves can be detachable from either the shoulder or the elbow.”

This means that a bride can wear a gown with sleeves for the more formal part of her wedding, the ceremony and photos, then remove them for the fun, more relaxed part of the day.

The second trend is 3D wedding gowns.

“3D dresses are popular, which are embroidered with motifs that stick out from the gown,” Debbie said.

“For example, the petals and flowers on a dress waving in the breeze.

Perfect for a bride who wants to stand out on her wedding day, 3D floral wedding dresses have unique textures and embellishments that add accents, drama and visual interest to a bridal gown.

This makes 3D wedding gowns ideal for a garden wedding.

DEBLU’S WEDDING DREAMS, ECHUCA Boho-VintageClassic-Destination Curve Range Bridesmaids, Suits and Accessories All your Hens & Bucks supplies ph. 5480 7200 www.deblus.com.au

20 // bride and groom

The Amy, a Tania Olsen Design, is a fully lined wedding gown with a structured bodice, plunging v-neckline, with shoulder straps that fall back into a v-back. Adorned with 3D floral lace, The Amy would make the perfect garden wedding dress. Available from Deblu’s

We’ll help you plan your dream wedding and honeymoon!

Are you in the midst of planning your next big event...

Why not book a spot on the American Rooftop and let us do the heavy lifting so you can enjoy the beautiful views, service, delicious food & so much more!

Book our space today and receive a 10% discount.

Reach out today and let us help you celebrate those special moments that matter, the American way!

Paradise Gardens

functions@americanhotelechuca.com.au

Set on the banks of the Murray River, a beautiful country garden for your Wedding Day.

Call 5852 3433

93960

(03) 5480 0969 0437 128 197

Getting married? Need more information?

Contact the office today to speak to one of our experienced consultants.

210 Allan Street, Kyabram 3620 info@boomerangtravel.com.au | www.boomerangtravel.com.au ATAS No. A10383

HEALTH FOOD STORE / CAFE • GLUTEN FREE • DAIRY FREE • VEGAN • COELIAC FRIENDLY • FODMAP FRIENDLY

We have a huge range of specialised products, all available in store or online.

If there’s anything you’re looking for that you can’t find on our website, please call us on 0497 331 383 Open

1199 Perricoota Road, Moama ( 10 mins from Moama ) Please phone Sue for an appointment to view 0429 836 230 www.paradisegardensmoama.com.au

Monday – Friday: 8 am – 5 pm Saturday & Sunday: 9 am – 2 pm

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Ryan and Nikki Buzzi. Photo: Erin Jane Photography

NATURAL SETTING FOR YOUR DREAM DAY

22 // bride and groom

Molly and Jason Leocata. Photo: Love by Shae Photography

service, picturesque views, amazing food and memories to last a life time.

Tatalia provides an elegant first-floor setting, with stunning views over the west golf course and breathtaking sunsets, beautifully captured through the floor to ceiling windows.

With multiple layout options, Tatalia is the perfect setting for an intimate reception of 50 guests to a large affair for up to 280.

Our team of experienced chefs provide an extensive range of catering options to suit all tastes and budgets.

Fresh, local produce prepared on-site ensures the highest quality for you and your guests.

Couples have the choice of menu options, which can be tailored to your individual needs, including canapé style, two or threecourse meal or buffet.

At the end of a long day there is no need to travel far, as our venue also offers a 63-room motel plus an apartment that can sleep up to eight guests.

With lush gardens, outdoor pool, spa and sauna, it’s the perfect accommodation option for your wedding guests.

Included in the impressive wedding package is a one-night stay in the executive spa suite for the bride and groom.

Contact Rachel Thorp to book a tour Tatalia and The Lakes on 5481 3333, email functions2@richriver.com.au or visit www.tatalia.com.au for more information.

Liz and Michael Chapman. Photo: Love by Shae Photography

Tatalia is situated on the Moama side of the beautiful Murray River and nestled among picturesque fairways and luscious greens.

Our venue has everything you could ever need or want for your special day, all in the one location.

From the ceremony, to reception and even accommodation, all your needs are catered for.

Start your special day in the magical ceremony area known as, ‘The Lakes’.

Surrounded by manicured fairways and bodies of water, this tranquil area is the ideal location for an intimate wedding ceremony.

The beautiful natural surrounds of ‘The Lakes’ is the ideal canvas to create a ceremony that perfectly reflects your wedding theme.

Whether it is rustic, traditional or contemporary and glamorous, the event and functions team will work with you to ensure your vision is achieved. ‘‘We have had a number of brides hold their ceremony at ‘The Lakes’, they love the idea of getting married in beautiful natural surrounds and also enjoy creating a ceremony that perfectly reflects them and their husband to be” Rich River Golf Club events and functions co-ordinator Rachel Thorp said.

The team will not only work with you to create the perfect setting for your special day, but will give you and your guests an experience like no other, with wonderful

bride and groom // 23

VENUE

STUNNING VENUE AMONG THE GUM TREES THE TIMBERCUTTER CAFE, BAR AND FUNCTION VENUE AT THE JUNCTION OF THE MURRAY RIVER AND EDWARD RIVER, IS THE IDEAL ROMANTIC RIVERSIDE SETTING FOR A WEDDING.

The Timbercutter is situated on a 850 acre farm in the middle of the largest red gum forest in the world.

“We do a lot of weddings, all types of weddings, of all sizes,” The Timbercutter Red Gum Cafe, Bar and Function Venue manager Kalli Crump said.

“Our unique location, combined with fresh, local produce and all-inclusive packages are reasons why The Timbercutter is the perfect choice for your special day,” Kalli said.

“The venue is on the junction of where the two rivers meet, with the ceremony site, with an arbour, overlooking the junction.

“We have a lot of lawn area, as well, that is right off the river, in the middle of the red gum forest.”

The ceremony site and inclusions are complementary when you book your reception with The Timbercutter.

These include the red gum wedding arbour, bench seats for guests and a signing table with a newlyweds bench seat.

As part of your ceremony, guests will be served chilled water.

“We are a full service venue, offering seated, cocktail or buffet, and have a caravan bar that is popular on the lawn,” Kalli said.

“We can seat 160, if you want to stay inside, but bigger outside with a marquee if needed.

“The Timbercutter is a rustic, but elegant wedding venue, with red gum floorboards and timber surrounds.”

Moving to your reception, the natural beauty of The Timbercutter speaks for itself with its polished red gum, open fireplace, leather chesterfield lounges, handcrafted furniture and six-metre long red gum bar.

The look of the building means that very little extra is needed for this romantic reception venue.

Your reception package includes red gum tables, chairs, cake and gift tables, all cutlery, crockery and glassware.

24 // bride and groom

The venue is fully air-conditioned, with an open fireplace inside and fire buckets outside, so you and your guests will be comfortable no matter the weather.

Recent upgrades to the paths through the property have made the venue and function centre fully accessible.

Being a full service venue, The Timbercutter has a number of reception food and drink packages available.

Food packages that are offered include shared grazing plates, cocktail service, buffet or seated two or three-course meals.

The Timbercutter has an extensive menu for couples to pre-pick meal options from, with meals to meet everyone’s dietary requirements.

Kalli is noticing a recovery breakfast, brunch or lunch is popular the next day, which The Timbercutter can offer as a buffet breakfast or group booking.

Drink packages are made up of beer, wine, cider, soft drinks and tea and coffee and can be upgraded to include spirits.

If an open bar is more your approach, beverages can be charged on a consumption basis, with a minimum charge per person, with you selecting the drinks on offer.

Once the pre-paid bar tab is reached, you can choose to add more or guests can purchase their own drinks.

Bill’s caravan is a great way to kick off your reception, being able to be set up on the shady lawn area for guests to enjoy, while the

wedding party is taking photos.

Kalli is happy to work with couples providing any and all requests they might have on their special day.

“We are happy to customise every wedding to each couple, we are not just set on what packages we offer, we do a lot of customising,” she said.

“Every couple’s dream wedding is different, so we leave theming and table centre pieces to the couple or stylist, so they can select a colour and style that reflects them.

“We have a full list of service providers we work with, our vendors.

“There is accommodation across the road from The Timbercutter and through all the park, so there is plenty of accommodation in the area, within walking distance.

“We can help organise your entertainment, we don’t directly supply it, but we know who all the local people are.

“We do general service as well, but when there is a wedding, the venue is closed to the public.

“The special thing about holding your wedding at The Timbercutter is the junction of the two rivers, and the bush and natural landscape around us, you can’t get that anywhere else,” Kalli said.

To hold your wedding at The Timbercutter Cafe, Bar and Function Centre contact Kalli Crump on (03) 5884 3287 or email bookings@ thetimbercutter.com.au

96610

Inspections for Weddings and Functions are welcome by appointment

1021 Picnic Point Rd, Mathoura NSW 03 5884 3287 • bookings@thetimbercutter.com.au |

PLANNING

THE IDEAL WEDDING PLAN CONGRATULATIONS, NOW YOU ARE ENGAGED AND YOUR WEDDING IS JUST 12 MONTHS AWAY! A YEAR CAN GO QUICKLY AND THERE ARE CERTAIN MILESTONES TO REACH ALONG YOUR PLANNING JOURNEY, SO BELOW IS A MONTH-BY-MONTH GUIDE OF WHAT NEEDS TO BE DONE AND WHEN.

12 MONTHS



Find inspiration for the styling/theme of the wedding.



Draw up a budget of how much you want to spend.

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Ask friends or relatives to be in the wedding party, such as bridesmaids and groomsmen, flower girls and pageboys, ceremony poem or prayer readers.





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Pick a wedding date and time: select several options then check these with your venues, celebrant and important guests.

Then book in the wedding ceremony venue, reception venue and celebrant.

Delegate tasks: you can either plan the wedding yourselves, pay a wedding planner to do it, or delegate some tasks to loved ones you trust.

Do the guest list as early as possible, as many bookings relate to this.

26 // bride and groom

8–10 MONTHS



Start researching and trying on wedding dress options — and purchase or order in as soon as possible.



Plan the reception food/choose from menus and book in the caterer.

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Plan the styling of your wedding — and either start collecting the items you need, or pay a decorator to co-ordinate this.

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Make an order to the florist for the bouquets, boutonnieres, flowers for close family to wear and flowers for the venues.



Book in the photographer and videographer.

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Register for gifts at your favourite department store — ideally one with an online ordering capacity for out-of-town guests.

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Book in rental companies if you need to rent anything for the ceremony or reception, such as decorations, chairs, tables, tents, sound equipment.

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If an engagement party is intended, plan this for the first few months after the engagement. Consider registering for gifts or putting gift suggestions (such as cash towards the honeymoon) on the invitation.

PLANNING 6–8 MONTHS



Send save-the-date cards, and specify whether children will or will not be invited.



Book the ceremony entertainment (such as musicians or a DJ).



Buy the bridesmaids’ dresses and buy or advise them on which type of shoes to source.

2 WEEKS



Give a list of essential photographs to the photographer, including any key family pics you want, to ensure you don’t miss out.



Confirm a final song list with the DJ or musician, and the songs for important moments – such as the walk-in to the reception, the first dance, the father-daughter dance, and the exit song for the end of the night – and an indication as to what time these should occur.



The bride should get a haircut and colour.

4–6 MONTHS



Design and order the invitations and place settings at the same time, to save money with a bundle deal.



Buy the wedding rings.



Buy or organise to rent the suits for the groom and groomsmen, and don’t forget the shoes.



Buy any under-garments for the wedding dress before the final fitting, to ensure a streamlined look.

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Buy jewellery.

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Start having dance lessons now for the formal dances.

3 MONTHS



Mail the wedding invitations.



Plan the wedding cake and book in the cake maker.



Hire wedding-day transport, such as limousines, vintage or other specialty vehicles.



Book the hair and make-up artists for the whole bridal party, and have a trial one or two months beforehand.



Make bookings for the honeymoon, and renew passports if planning an overseas trip.



Purchase bonbonnieres.

2 MONTHS



Have the hen’s night and buck’s night.

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Write the wedding vows.

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Purchase thank-you gifts for parents and the wedding party.



Apply for a marriage licence (your celebrant should be able to help with this).

1 MONTH



Do the final RSVP count and chase up any outstanding ones, then finalise catering numbers.



Have the final wedding dress fitting, and bring the maid of honour along to learn how to bustle the dress. Have the dress pressed and store it neatly at home.



Ensure every item is purchased for the bridesmaids’ and groomsmen’s outfits, right down to the shoes, jewellery/ cufflinks, undergarments and men’s socks.



Call all key vendors to confirm arrangements, make payments, fill in any last-minute forms and submit required itineraries.



Make personalised itineraries for the wedding party members and any other key wedding vendors, including the day’s proceedings with times and a list of key contact numbers, and nominate a person responsible for each key area on the day so vendors know who to talk to in case of an emergency. Also, organise someone to return any hired items the day after the wedding.



Make a wedding program to be handed out to guests on the day.



Do the reception seating chart and send to the wedding planner/decorator or related person.

1 WEEK



The groom and groomsmen should go for their final fitting and pick up their suits.



Call all wedding vendors to re-confirm arrangements, ask for any last-minute details they require and make any final payments.



The groom should get a hair-cut.

2–3 DAYS



Double check that the wedding dress is crinkle-free; if not, organise a last-minute press.



Drop off the place cards, table numbers, menus, decorations and bonbonnieres to the person responsible for the wedding/ ceremony venue set-ups.



Have any fake tan and manicure/pedicure appointments.

DAY BEFORE



Do a dress rehearsal with the wedding party to ensure everyone knows what to do, where to stand and when to walk.



Usually the table settings are done in the afternoon; double check these once complete and make any last-minute suggestions to the decorator.



If there is time, book in a relaxing massage for the late afternoon or early evening.

NIGHT BEFORE



Aim for a relaxing evening with key loved ones.



Also ensure you are in bed early and don’t drink too much, so you are well rested for the wedding day.



Give a small memento to the wedding party members the night before, as a thank-you for their support. For bridesmaids, often this is some jewellery to wear at the wedding.



Give wedding bands to the best man and maid of honour to hold during the ceremony.

WEDDING DAY



You are well organised and the key people have been nominated as responsible for particular tasks/areas on the day – so now it is time to simply relax and enjoy the day yourself.

AFTER THE HONEYMOON



Write and send thank-you notes to guests and helpful vendors.

bride and groom // 27

HONEYMOONS

COUPLES EXTENDING HONEYMOONS

AFTER A COUPLE OF YEARS OF NOT TRAVELLING AND SAVING UP TIME AND MONEY, NEWLYWEDS HONEYMOONS ARE LONGER AND TO FURTHER AWAY DESTINATIONS ACCORDING TO BOOMERANG TRAVEL CENTRE OWNER DEBI KITT.

“Honeymoons at the minute, it is Europe, which is really surprising,” Debi said.

“It is usually places like the Maldives, Thailand, Fiji, Vanuatu, but there seems to be a move to bigger holidays now for longer.

“The last honeymoon we put together was Spain, Portugal, a Mediterranean cruise and then on to Italy, Athens and London.

“I think people have got more time now, because they put their weddings off and off and they have saved up more and have more time and going further than normal.”

Debi and her friendly, knowledgeable staff can help you plan and book your personalised honeymoon.

28 // bride and groom

“The first thing I always say is to have an idea of where you want to go, because a lot of people will come in and want to go here, and want to go there,” she said.

“And I am just like, you can do that, but in the right way.

“Someone will say that they want to go to London, then to Athens and then back up to Ireland as well, which may be the wrong way to make the most of the trip.

“So what they do is come in and tell us a rough idea of what they want, what roughly their budget would be and how long and then we put it together for them, what they want to do.

“If they come in and say they want a Mediterranean cruise, that is obviously what we would look at straight away.

“Generally, after the wedding, they like to go somewhere really nice for a couple of nights, travelling on from there.”

Currently, Boomerang Travel finds the five most popular honeymoon destinations are the Greek Islands, taking a Mediterranean cruise, Paris, Spain and Portugal or Croatia.

“This time of the year, the Greek Islands are always popular or the Maldives, it depends on what you want to do,” Debi said.

“A lot of people won’t go to the UK to start with, they may start with Paris for the first

HONEYMOONS

couple of nights, obviously, it is the city of love, so that is where you would go first.

“They are probably the major destinations, because when you think about people on their honeymoon, they are obviously of a younger age, so they stick towards those destinations.

“Other than that, normally, they would go to places like Thailand, Maldives, Cook Islands, Fiji, Vanuatu for a bench holiday.

“Generally speaking, it is always around islands, so warmer weather.

“They are are wanting to go somewhere warmer and just sit back and relax,” she said. bride and groom // 29

VENUE

RIVERSIDE ROMANCE AWAITS PERRICOOTA STATION IS ONE OF THE MOST HISTORIC AND STUNNING LOCATIONS ON THE MURRAY RIVER TO HOLD YOUR WEDDING.

30 // bride and groom

These include postceremony or pre-reception drinks, a reception drinks menu of beer, cider, wine, soft drink, tea and coffee, with spirits as an optional extra, but no BYO. As an alternative to packages, the venue can offer a bar tab or the opportunity for guests to purchase their own drinks, until 12 am.

Perricoota Station provides full table and bar service to you and all your guests throughout your wedding, overseen by the function manager coordinating your big day.

A stage for your band or DJ and a designated dance floor in the Packing Shed are included in any reception package.

Couples can choose their own entertainment, and the team at Perricoota Station will coordinate with them on the day to ensure everything is set and in line with the day’s running sheet.

“If brides and grooms don’t want to utilise our full range of wedding day inclusions they can choose all of their own vendors, outside of food and beverages,” Jodie said.

“We have a list of suggested vendors we work with.

“This includes suggestions for flowers, cakes, hair and make-up, celebrants, photographers, musicians and styling.”

There is ample parking at Perricoota Station or they can assist with organising a shuttle bus from Echuca and Moama for guests.

With its stunning riverfront location, rusticchic atmosphere and abundance of natural beauty, Perricoota Station is a photographer’s dream come true.

“The rolling hills, historic buildings and meandering river provide endless possibilities for creative photos,” Jodie said.

Photographer: McQuilton Productions.

Located 23 kilometres from Moama, Perricoota Station is the perfect backdrop for your romantic wedding ceremony and reception.

“The property has recently been renovated and offers a superb setting for weddings, conferences, private functions, accommodation and even historic tours,” Perricoota Station owner, events and accommodation manager Jodie Clark said.

“With almost three kilometres of water frontage, Perricoota Station is the perfect place to host your wedding.

“Its stunning riverfront location and rustic industrial charm make it the perfect place to say, ‘I do’.

“Whether you prefer the traditional elegance of the manicured lawns of the homestead or the stunning natural beauty of the riverside, we have the perfect spot for you.

“Our white folding chairs will create a beautiful aisle for you to walk down, and you can add your own personal touch with an arbour or other decorations.”

Your wedding package includes 30 white folding chairs, a signing table with chairs and an area on the lawn for grazing boards, drinks, barrels and stools after the ceremony.

Each guest will receive a bottle of water upon arrival.

You will have exclusive use of the venue for the day and night of your wedding, with Perricoota Station closed to the public on that day.

“After your ceremony, your reception is just steps away at the historic Packing Shed,” Jodie said.

“This spacious venue can comfortably seat up to 250 guests or 350 standing and is just metres from the waterfront.

“From the large deck, your guests will have stunning views of the Murray River and the surrounding Australian bushland, including iconic red gums.”

Perricoota Station offers complete wedding packages, individually designed to suit your special day.

The venue will be set up as per your instructions and table plan, with all tables, chairs, crockery, cutlery, glassware, linen and napkins included.

Perricoota Station has an on-site chef and team who take care of all event catering, including different dietary requirements.

Couples can choose from a range of food packages including post ceremony grazing boards and canapés, sit down two or threecourse meals, cocktail menu items, shared platters and desserts.

There are a range of beverage packages to suit a couples needs and budget available.

“From the intimate ceremony under a canopy of trees to the grand reception in the Packing Shed, every moment of your wedding day will be captured in stunning detail.”

Perricoota Station is located on Perricoota State Forest Rd, Moama NSW. To hold your wedding at one of the most romantic and stunning locations on the Murray River contact Jodie Clark on 0499 299 653 or email info@perricootastationevents.com.au

YOUR DREAM WEDDING ON THE MURRAY RIVER Perricoota Station is one of the Murray River’s most romantic wedding venues and the perfect place to say, “I do.”

CEREMONY Perricoota Station offers a variety of beautiful settings for your wedding ceremony. Whether you prefer the traditional elegance of the manicured lawns of the homestead or the stunning natural beauty of the riverside, we have the perfect spot for you.

RECEPTION After your ceremony, your reception is just steps away at the historic Packing Shed. This spacious venue can comfortably seat up to 250 guests or have 350 standing and is just metres from the waterfront. From the large deck, your guests will have stunning views of the Murray River and the surrounding Australian bushland, including iconic red gums.

PHOTOGRAPHIC LOCATIONS With its stunning riverfront location, rustic-chic atmosphere and abundance of natural beauty, Perricoota Station is a photographer’s dream come true.

Book your wedding at Perricoota Station today and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Bride and groom: Jessica Trimby and Aaron Hatch Photographer: McQuilton Productions

Call 0499 299 653 or email info@perricootastationevents.com.au perricootastationevents.com.au

function centre Experience the ultimate wedding destination in Echuca Moama

10% OFF CATERING for weekday weddings (Mon-Fri)

Onsite ceremony area Reception centre that can cater for an intimate or large affair Extensive menus Exquisite views On-site accommodation A dedicated Functions Co-ordinator to work with you

Twenty Four Lane, Moama NSW 2731 | 03 5481 3333 | www.tatalia.com.au