Rain has certainly been making itself known this wedding season, but once again it turned out to be more of a background character than the main event. Rachel and Todd never let the forecast worry them. They rolled with whatever the day threw at them, and in the end it all came together perfectly. Surrounded by close family and friends from every stage of their lives, it felt less like a big production and more like one very special gathering.
The day started with Rachel, her bridesmaid and mum putting the finishing touches on hair and makeup. There was plenty of excitement in the room, but everything stayed relaxed. Once it was time, Rachel stepped into her dress with a little help from the ladies before her shoes and veil completed the look.
I then headed down to Todd and his best man, where it was all about those last minute adjustments. Ties were straightened, buttonholes pinned on, and there was just enough nervous energy starting to creep in.
Before heading to the venue, the two shared a first look on a balcony overlooking a picture perfect Kirra Beach. Todd stood with his back turned as Rachel quietly walked up behind him and tapped him on the shoulder. The smile on his face when he turned around said everything. It was one of those simple moments that didn’t need an audience. Just the two of them taking it all in before the day really began.
Todd then made his way to Pioneer Country while I stayed behind for a few portraits of Rachel before making the trip ourselves.
By the time everyone had gathered in the chapel, Todd was waiting patiently at the altar as Chris Hutchison filled the room with live music. When the chapel doors opened, every head turned towards Rachel, but nobody was looking quite as closely as Todd.
Their ceremony had a lovely mix of laughter and emotion. Rachel became a little overwhelmed during her vows, and without missing a beat Todd reached into his pocket, pulled out a tissue and gently wiped away her tears. It was such a genuine moment and one that had plenty of guests reaching for tissues of their own. They sealed their vows with a kiss before making everything official with the signing of the register.
Outside the chapel, guests were lined up ready with handfuls of confetti. Rachel and Todd shared another kiss in the doorway before stepping out into a shower of colour and plenty of cheering. After lots of hugs and congratulations, we gathered everyone together for a big group photo before working through the family and bridal party photos.
With some dark clouds starting to roll in, we jumped into the buggy and headed for the top of the hill for portraits. We made it about halfway before the rain caught us, so there was nothing to do but pull over and wait it out for a few minutes. Thankfully it passed quickly, and when we reached the top we were rewarded with beautiful sunlight breaking through the clouds.
It gave Rachel and Todd a chance to enjoy a few quiet moments together while we captured some romantic portraits. Before long the weather started closing in again, so we made a quick trip back to the barn, arriving just before the next shower. Perfect timing. Better still, it meant they could get back to spending time with their guests instead of disappearing for hours taking photos. That’s always the goal. Weddings should feel like a celebration, not an all day photo session.
The reception started with something different, and honestly I hope more couples borrow the idea. Rachel had mentioned earlier that neither of them loved being the centre of attention, so instead of a traditional grand entrance, they stood at the big barn doors while each group of guests came over for a quick photo. They had about twenty seconds before someone rang the cowbell and the next group stepped in. It was a lot of fun, and had everyone laughing from the very beginning.
Once everyone had found their seats, the evening flowed into heartfelt speeches that mixed plenty of laughs with a few happy tears. After dinner came the cake cutting, followed by the always entertaining shoe game, before Rachel and Todd shared their first dance together as husband and wife.
Not long into it, the dance floor filled and the celebration really got going.
A beautiful day shared with a wonderful group of family and friends, and a couple whose love for each other was obvious from start to finish.
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