A groom that wasn’t too fussed on the shebang of a wedding but a bride whose family means the world to her led to the intimate wedding of Chantal Layt and Gavin Lawrence.
The pair wed in the Hunter Valley in a morning ceremony on November 4, 2013 with 30 guests.
“Gavin never wanted a wedding but I couldn’t exclude my family, so we agreed on something stylish and low-key,” explains Chantal. “Having only a family ceremony, we opted to have a mini bridal party using nieces and nephews.”
The rustic theme was created through months of DIY planning. Chantal sourced materials to create the bunting, centrepieces, jams and other decorations.
Their morning ceremony was followed by a sit down lunch, but the couple had something a little extra in store. “We still wanted to be able to kick back with everyone at some point, so decided on a surprise after-party at a secret location,” smiles Chantal. “The entire day was just what we wanted. It was intimate and fun and at the end we were able to relax with our guests by giving them a nice surprise.”
Chantal’s gown was a custom design by Wendy Makin. “The fabulous girls at Penrith Bridal Centre worked with me to change bits and pieces and colours to make the perfect dress.”
“We had the formalities of the day including the ceremony and formal three-course lunch at the gorgeous Robert’s Restaurant,” explains Chantal.
“Gavin is the most amazing person I know. He is completely selfless and I can’t imagine my life without him,” Chantal says of her groom.
“Gavin and myself styled the ceremony and reception at Roberts Restaurant. It’s amazing what a hot glue gun can do!” laughs Chantal.
Photos courtesy of Little Black Bow Photography.
