When it came to choosing a wedding venue, Brisbane bride Avalon Bethel knew just the place to stun partner Shane Mikic.
“Shane is the biggest cricket fan I know. He owns over 60 cricket bats and plays cricket every day he can,” Avalon says.
“The first venue we looked at was the Queensland Cricketers’ Club at the Gabba. I loved the grandness of it all and that it was something I didn’t think was possible. It was perfect.”
Avalon, 30, was more than happy to incorporate 40-year-old Shane’s other love into their big day and settled on May 16, 2014 for their Gabba wedding.
Despite some light rain, the couple got their dream of an on-field ceremony. “The rain was a blessing in disguise. The resulting rainbow was an awesome backdrop for our photos,” Avalon says.
The reception with 60 guests followed at the Queensland Cricketers’ Club function room with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the ground.
“As we entered the reception area I have never felt so much love and happiness in my life. The stadium lights lit up as we walked in,” Avalon says.
“Everything was perfect.”


Avalon has a word of warning for future brides shopping online after her internet purchases arrived in the wrong size and colour. A disastrous dyeing experience and a trip to the dry cleaners later and Avalon says she’s learnt her lesson.




After the ceremony a limo whisked the couple off to the Kangaroo Point cliffs for photos.




Photos by Natasha Jade.
Video by One Mustard Seed.
Bomboniere: Chokolait / Brides Accessories: Secrets, Lovisa / Brides Gown: Luv Bridal & Formal - Designer Direct / Brides Shoes: Online / Bridesmaid Shoes: Zu Shoes, Pulp / Bridesmaids Accessories: Lovisa, Adore / Bridesmaids Dresses: Online / Cake: Bride's mum / Celebrant: Joshua Withers / Ceremony Music: Amy Micahels / Ceremony Venue: Gabba Stadium / Entertainment: Brendan from Brazen Duo / Flowers: Susan McMurray / Grooms Attire: Myer / Grooms Shoes: David Jones / Groomsmen Attire: Myer / Groomsmen Shoes: Myer / Hair: Sarah Keillor / Honeymoon: Escape Travel / Invitations: Daniel Farmer / Makeup: Bellezza Parlour / Photographer: Natasha Jade / Rings: Michael Hill / Transport: Grande Limousines / Venue: Queensland Cricketers Club / Venue Decor: The Wedding Decoration Warehouse / Videographer: One Mustard Seed / Wedding Night Accommodation: Meriton Apartments