A decade in the making: Lisa and Vanessa’s rustic relaxed wedding

Vanessa and Lisa never thought marriage was something that could happen for them, so when it came time to celebrate their rustic relaxed wedding, they were starting from scratch.

“We were unsure of what we wanted for our wedding day – it was not something we ever imagined could happen,” Vanessa explains.

“When the marriage equality vote passed in December 2017 we were able to sit down and discuss getting married.”

Friends suggested setting the date for their 10-year anniversary, and the Perth pair decided on a destination wedding surrounded by vineyards in Margaret River.

“We knew we wanted it to be an opportunity for everyone to leave behind the hustle and bustle and take some time to have fun and relax,” Vanessa says.

The couple’s rustic relaxed wedding was held at Robert Oatley Winery on February 23, 2019 alongside 90 friends and family, including the couple’s two daughters.

“Our ceremony was filled with laughs, tears and impromptu cuddles from our girls,” Vanessa says.

“After an amazing photoshoot we joined our guests for a fantastic night of celebration. Great food, superb wine and a full dance floor made our night one to remember. Coupled with some tear-jerking speeches from our dads and we could not have asked for a better wedding.”

Photos courtesy of Shannon Stent Images.

Lisa had an engagement ring made by Solid Gold Diamonds two years into their relationship, popping the question during a game of charades with friends.

The couple opted for a first-look photoshoot. “Our photographers selected a beautiful location for our photo shoot, and it was such a special moment we were thrilled to capture,” Vanessa says.

The couple travelled to the ceremony in style courtesy of Classic Jaguar Limousines.

Vanessa and Lisa were wed by celebrant Nathanial Ditchburn.

The couple first met when they played on the same basketball team. “The friendship grew and a spark ignited one Australia Day where we both went out of our way to find each other,” Vanessa says.

The loved-up couple advise that quality counts when it comes to planning your big day. “Don’t hesitate and just spend that extra money on good vendors – experience and quality on the day does matter,” Vanessa says.

Video by True Love Story.