Two peas in a pod: Kristy and Matthew’s elegant beach wedding

“We are truly two peas in a pod.”

Melburnians Kristy Huider and Matt Payne, aged 38 and 43, met on the dating website Plenty of Fish – and have been inseparable ever since. “We exchanged text messages for a couple of weeks before finally meeting in person at the top of the steps at Flinders Street Station,” recalls Kristy. “We absolutely love spending all our time together and enjoy the simple things like riding along the beach… and pretty much anything that involves us hanging out together.”

After a proposal at home involving a ring hidden in a Lindt box, the pair married at their beach wedding on March 11, 2016. Kristy describes the ceremony as “the most beautiful experience, and as we spoke our vows to one another it was as if the whole world disappeared.”

The bride wowed 70 guests in a beautiful Q’nique wedding gown from Bluebell Bridal. “I decided to cut out most of the underneath layers to the knees and take the train off to create a beachy fun feel,” describes Kristy.

The HR manager and motor technician are both huge fans of the coast, having many of their first dates there. “Sandbar Beach Café in Middle Park had everything, beautiful views, peaceful location, wonderful food,” smiles Kristy. “We were so lucky to have such great beach weather that day, especially in Melbourne.”

And the couple honeymooned … at home! “We stayed home to spend it with family and friends who had travelled for our wedding,” says Kristy.

Photos courtesy of Passion8 Photography.

Magical Makeovers created Kristy’s do, perfect for a beach wedding.

The couple had first-look photos taken with photographer Andrew Harrison before they headed to the cafe for their ceremony. “An absolute laugh and professional,” praises the bride.

Kristy and Matt were married by Charis White Celebrant who they describe as “warm and fun.”

“I honestly don’t know what we would do without each other,” says Kristy.

The couple’s masterpiece cake was created by wizards Cakes of Distinction.