Danielle & David smash guest numbers in cultural white wedding

With your usual guest list for Australian weddings sitting at around 100, this gorgeous white wedding was anything but average.

Danielle Zaharopoulos, 28, and David Abboud, 36, exchanged vows with close to a whopping 500 guests not once, but twice, before a huge reception at Manor on High in Epping, Victoria.

Honouring each of their traditions, a Catholic ceremony was held first followed by a Greek Orthodox one on June 14, 2014.

“David and I met out one night, exchanged numbers, and finally went on our first date after I had turned him down a fair few times,” explains Danielle. “That was it. The most amazing first date I could have ever imagined.”

The pair were engaged the same day they got the keys to their first home, with David laying out roses and candles in preparation for popping the question. Danielle says they were quick to begin planning the wedding which would include both their “large families.” That might be an understatement!

Danielle knew incorporating 470 guests would be challenging. “Even though there were close to 500 guests I made a promise to myself that I would take in every aspect I could, and I did,” she says. “I remember almost everything. The morning of my wedding when it was just me and my dad awake outside at the crack of dawn having a coffee was a moment I will never forget.”

The couple honeymooned for 11 weeks in Europe.

Photos courtesy of Anthony at Circularink.

Despite a winter wedding, Danielle was delighted to have peonies in her bouquet.

David and his boys looked sharp in tuxes by Andre J Menswear.

Des’ree’s “Kissing You” and Christina Perri’s “A Thousand Years” were the soundtracks for the two ceremonies.

“Some of the best weddings are the ones where you can just see love pouring out of the bride and groom,” smiles Danielle.

Guests were entertained with Lebanese and Greek drummers.

Video by Video Boutique.