Jess and Pat’s ‘roar n snore’ leads to gorgeous Taronga Zoo wedding

An exclusive after-hours photo opp at Sydney’s most famous safari experience led to this Taronga Zoo wedding that was anything but a snore.

Sydney animal lovers Jess and Pat were engaged on their three-year anniversary at Taronga Zoo’s famous ‘Roar ‘n’ Snore’ overnight camp stay.

Having orchestrated with the zoo’s groundskeeper a VIP visit to the bird amphitheatre after dark, groom Pat proposed on traditional bended knee to bride Jess at the home of the free-flight birds. On May 14, 2021, they returned to the iconic destination with 86 loved ones for a safari-inspired Taronga Zoo wedding reception.

Their wedding ceremony was a quick but meaningful 30 minutes at Catholic church, Our Lady of the Way in Sylvania. Jess, who wore a Brides by Francesca tulle wedding gown, says after two covid-postponements, walking down the aisle and finally becoming a wife was her favourite part of the day!

Following family photos, friends and family boarded a coach to make their way uptown to the zoo; Jess and Pat’s bridal party jumped into a stretch limousine by HF Wedding & Hire Cars, and the newlyweds spent some alone-time in a gorgeous Rolls Royce by Variety Wedding Cars.

With expansive Sydney Harbour views, this Taronga Zoo wedding by renowned caterers Epicure was held at the unique event centre’s N’Galawa Terrace. The popular wedding space is perched up high, above the ballroom, and accommodates up to 200 cocktail-style.

Jess and Pat dotted speeches throughout their meal service, which included three delicious courses, canapes, and a gluten-free mud cake by Artistic Cake Creations. Acoustic guitarist Luke O’Shea created an interactive atmosphere during dinner, encouraging song requests and even guest vocals for singalongs up on stage by the brave!

Taronga Centre has beautiful panoramic views of the harbour which drew us to the venue at our site visit. We also read some reviews online about the food, which was delicious, and many of our guests have mentioned how yummy the food was. We’re so happy with how our day turned out – how our venue looked, and all the amazing vendors we worked with.

Jess & Pat

EPICURE AT TARONGA ZOO
VENUE HIGHLIGHTS

LOCATION: Mosman, Sydney, NSW

CAPACITY: Up to 300 cocktail style

VENUE STYLE:  Elegant, Event Centre

FOOD: Modern, worldwide flavours by award-winning caterers, Epicure

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS: WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Madame Tussauds

This Epicure wedding at Taronga Zoo was captured beautifully by With Love Weddings and Lightheart Films & Photography.

Jess’s pearl and crystal-encrusted open-toe shoes were from The White Collection.

Photos courtesy of With Love Weddings and video by Lightheart Films & Photography.

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