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My gosh, I am so excited to share this one with you! You see, I have known Dan since he was about 10 years old. I’ve always affectionately called him my ‘Brother from another Mother’ as we share the same birthday, and because I used to sneak him beer’s when we would drink at his family home when I was younger (like any good Sister would do, yes?). Dan is the little brother of one my oldest friends, so I know him and his family really well, and it was just so nice to be a part of this day.
Now, it can’t all be about Dan. Liv… you are a legend! We first met a couple of years ago at a local event and hit it off straight away. I remember driving home thinking how happy I was for Dan to have found such a genuine, down-to-earth, GOOD person.
This wedding was a little different in the lead up, it was the first time I had all my correspondence with the Groom! And I have to say Dan, you smashed it. And I’m sure Liv will agree!
When they told me they were getting married near Bright at Olivia’s family property – I was pretty excited. I’ve always wanted to visit, and this was the perfect opportunity. I also knew it was stunning up there (…but I didn’t realise HOW stunning until I arrived).
On the day of the wedding, Dan + Liv had decided they wanted to be able to party with their guests as soon as the ceremony was finished.
The solution? To do a ‘First Look’ and all the family photos pre-ceremony.
Such a good idea!
So me and my second shooter (Onya, Dezzy!) trekked up the rocky mountain at the back of Liv’s parents house with Dan to find a secluded spot for the big reveal.
We got into position, and I instructed Dan to face the opposite direction as Liv pulled up in a ute, driven by her friend. True farm style.
She walked up behind Dan, tapped him on the shoulder… And I’ll let the photos tell the rest of the story!
Happiness was literally beaming from both of their giddy faces. No one more excited than the other – Just genuine love and adoration.
It was magic.
So we gave the lovebirds a few minutes before inviting the rest of the immediate family up for some family photos on top of the most picturesque hill. 360 degree views of Buffalo River, it was incredible!
And once we were done with the family photos, we sent them on their way and hung out taking a few photos with just the two of them.
The views were magic.
Their love was magic.
It was effortless.
And with the formal photos done and dusted, it was time to (4-wheel) drive down the mountain and down to the river where the couple had chosen the most picturesque ceremony location!
Olivia had handmade a stunning Dreamcatcher inspired backdrop too, which hung from a low lying branch.
Girls got skills!
While Liv waited back at the family home with her siblings and parents, Dan reconnected with his siblings, parents and his best man, Simon.
Dan + Simon chatted away, while Ivan (Dan’s Dad) got out the old leaf blower to make sure the aisle runner was pristine. It would be rude NOT to document everything, right?
With the aisle runner spotless, and everyone in place – Olivia’s car pulled up, and out she came.
I love when Bride’s arrive to their wedding and see all the guests and their Groom. But I equally love watching the Groom’s face.
Absolute awe.
The ceremony was beautiful, and the celebrant was a family friend (who has married Liv’s sisters too) which was a special touch.
There were a lot of laughs, and a couple of tears (happy ones only!) – And the couple could not hide the way they were feeling.
They only had eyes for each other.
And with a fist pump in the air to celebrate the first kiss, it was official.
They were now… Mr + Mrs Burge.
Back up the hill, Dan + Liv (And all the many people who spent hours and hours helping) had converted an old shed into their wedding reception area. They cleared it out, and made it look amazing.
There were rugs on the floor, blankets for when it got cold later on, home-made esky’s (full to the brim) and a giant grazing table of yummy meats and cheeses.
The couple mingled with their family and friends. And it was so apparent the love and respect these guys have from those around them.
The Dad’s fetched some wood and started the fire pits up. People ate. People drank. People chatted. It was so homely and lovely.
After a couple of hours of mingling, it was time for the couple to be officially introduced!
So inside they went, and entered with their hands in the air, ready to party!
Once the speeches were complete, it was time for the newlyweds to cut the cake and show off their mad skills for their first dance.
CAN bust a move!
And with that it was time for everyone to let their hair down (more than they already had, ha!) – The party tunes were flowing and the dance moves of the guests were sensational.
So.. Dan + Liv?
Thank you. From the bottom of my heart. For inviting me to be part of this epic day with you both!
To both of your families for making me feel so welcome on the day (and to Jenny and Ivan for the last 20 years!)
I know the future is bright for you both. You are both so genuinely kind and caring, and I know that because of that you will always have good friends and lots of love surrounding you.
Here’s to all the happiness and good health in your future together, I bloody love you both!
Big Love, Leah
~ xoxo ~
Wedding Vendors:
Photography: Me! (Click here to see more weddings!)
Venue: Olivia’s family farm
Dress: Fairytales Boutique (Moonee Ponds)
Suit: Roger David
Hair: Kate Vessio
Makeup: Danica Hill
Bouquets: The Eternal Vase
Cake: Liv’s insanely talented sister, Fiona!
Celebrant: Jayne Dunell
© 2024 Leah Ladson Photography & Design. All Rights Reserved.
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