Caitlin & Kael give tradition the flick at cocktail wedding

Perth lovers Caitlin Griffiths and Kael Crees decided to flip tradition on its head for their cocktail wedding.

“Our wedding wasn’t traditional – we saw each other before the ceremony as we had our photos beforehand,” explains 25-year-old Caitlin. “This way it was daylight for our photos and as our ceremony and reception were at the same location we could have our ceremony late so people wouldn’t have to leave and come back.”

The pair, who met through a mutual friend (who was maid of honour), were married on April 2, 2015. The entire day took place in Applecross in Perth at Heathcote Reserve. “Once the ceremony was over there was an hour until the reception so the bar opened and people stuck around mingling, drinking and admiring the view,” smiles Caitlin.

The bride’s Rachel Gilbert gown has got to have been ordered in record time. “My wedding dress shopping took 10 minutes,” laughs Caitlin, “and I bought it without even seeing it in person!” Having seen it online she flew to Melbourne, found it was not yet available to try on, but ordered it anyway. The risk certainly paid off.

Practicality was also on this bride’s mind, who opted to pair wedges with her gown. “As our ceremony was on grass I really wanted wedges so I wouldn’t get stuck,” she says.

Photos courtesy of Kerri Mackintosh Photography.

Caitlin said photographer Kerri Mackintosh made the couple’s “first look” moment so special.

In a touching twist, Kael’s priamary shcool teacher, Leanne Meldrum, was the celebrant.

Bluewater Grill hosted the cocktail reception which included four food stations: sushi, Asian, carvery and dessert.

“The day turned out better than I could have anticipated,” says Caitlin. “Great food, great venue, great venue, great people!”