Wanting to escape the stress that can come with planning and hosting a wedding, Rebecca Cameron and Leigh Odermatt hosted an engagement party with a big twist.
“We set about organising our engagement party… and in the process decided we would have a surprise wedding,” Rebecca, 31, says.
The Melbourne pair only told a select few of their plans for their surprise wedding, setting the date for October 24, 2015.
The couple’s 130 guests attended the party at The Deck, Brighton, with few knowing what was in store.
“Leading up everyone had their suspicions and occasionally people would ask or imply we were going to get married. Deny, deny, deny!” Rebecca says.
She and Leigh, 32, said the Brighton cafe was the perfect venue for their big day, offering the relaxed, warm atmosphere they were after.
“There were a few wardrobe changes to pull off the surprise but it all went off without a hitch,” Rebecca says.
“I wish we could live it all again just to take more of it in.”
Photos courtesy of Sarah Godenzi.








Rebecca’s modern dress with elegant train proved to be the perfect choice of wedding gown.




“Leigh is the cream cheese icing to my red velvet cupcake,” Rebecca says with a laugh.




In choosing the ceremony music, the couple opted for a live acoustic version of “You and Me” by Lifehouse.


Bomboniere: DIY / Brides Gown: Karen Willis Holmes Pty Ltd / Brides Shoes: Verali / Cake: Nadine's Cakes / Caterer: The Deck brighton / Celebrant: Jennifer Preston / Ceremony Music: Daniel Willow Wilson / Entertainment: Daniel Willow Wilson / Flowers: Cathie Madigan / Gift Registry: Wishing well / Grooms Attire: Peter Jackson / Grooms Shoes: Julius Marlow / Hair: Cara Lee Hair & Makeup Artist / Honeymoon: Hawaii / Invitations: Etsy - White Willow / Makeup: Nicole Aquilina / Photographer: Sarah Godenzi / Rings: The Jewel Box of Healesville / Transport: Melbourne Deluxe Chauffeurs / Venue: The Deck brighton / Venue Decor: Supa Script Hand Lettering / Wedding Night Accommodation: Crown Promenade