While most brides and grooms-to-be pray for no rain on their wedding day, Crystal Thomas and Zachary Zweck were hoping tornados would stay away.
The couple, aged 24 and 27 respectively, married at their rustic farm wedding on October 10, 2016 the day after two tornados landed in their hometown of Blyth, SA.
“After spending the day before our wedding helping the community of Blyth to recover from the tornado, we set off on our own ways to prepare for our wedding day still with no back up plan,” says the bride, referring to losing the church as a ceremony option after its roof was blown off. Luckily the couple woke on their wedding day to beautiful blue skies and were married on Zack’s family farm.
The local town hall had power reconnected in time for the pair to celebrate their reception there with 95 guests by their side. And with a “first look” planned for their wedding photos, it was straight from the ceremony to the reception!
“Once Crystal was in her gorgeous dress, she and Zack stood behind a door and held hands,” explains their photographer of the first-look moment. “I will never forget when they each laid eyes on one another, instant tears of happiness!”
Photos courtesy of Amanda Kate Photography.


Crystal found her stunning strapless gown at Jenny & Gerry’s Bridal Centre. “The most amazing experience was had there,” says the bride.


Zack was dressed by experts Peter Shearer Menswear & Suit Hire.






Classic bouquets of ivory roses had a modern twist incorporating gums and greenery.






Bomboniere: Coolaz Stubby Holders / Brides Accessories: Myer / Brides Gown: Jenny & Gerry's Bridal Centre / Brides Shoes: Forever New / Bridesmaid Shoes: Novo Shoes / Bridesmaids Accessories: Myer / Bridesmaids Dresses: Forever New / Cake: Cakes 4 the Moment / Caterer: Royal Hotel Balaklava / Celebrant: Nigel Rosenzweig / Ceremony Music: Playlist / Ceremony Venue: Zweckfields / Entertainment: Playlist / Flowergirl Dress: Myer / Flowers: Kadina Flowers / Gift Registry: Wishing well / Grooms Attire: Peter Shearer Menswear & Suit Hire / Grooms Shoes: RM Williams / Groomsmen Attire: Peter Shearer Menswear & Suit Hire / Groomsmen Shoes: RM Williams / Hair: Hair Envy / Invitations: Snap Fish / Makeup: Cocoon Skin Therapy / Pageboy Attire: Myer / Photographer: Amanda Kate Photography / Reception Venue: Blyth Town Hall / Rings: Michael Hill Jeweller / Transport: Farm vehicle / Venue: DIY / Wedding Night Accommodation: Clare Cottage on Wendouree