Riki-Lee and Matthew’s Villa Botanica Whitsundays wedding

With a backdrop of the breathtaking Whitsundays, Villa Botanica has tropical gardens, sweeping ocean views, and an unmatched intimacy. It was the perfect setting for lovebirds Riki-Lee and Matthew to celebrate their love.

Although they had known each other since high school, Riki-Lee and Matthew didn’t get together until years later after Matthew sent an unprompted Facebook message.

For their first date, their life as a fun-loving couple was paved. A Triple J Hottest 100 party and an esky full of beer, with Matthew fitted out in a VB party suit. For Riki-Lee, it was destiny.

Since then, the Far North Queensland couple have set up a dreamy life together with their toy poodle Perri.

31 March 2024 was a picturesque sunny day. Next to the river, surrounded by blooming lilies, Matthew proposed. It was a resounding yes, of course, from Riki-Lee. It was only later that Matthew admitted he had changed the date from April Fools Day, but decided perhaps the day before was a little more romantic.

For the wedding itself, the couple envisioned one that was romantic and timeless, with deep red accents. “I gave the vendors virtual mood boards and full creative control. They made my dream come to life!” explains Riki-Lee.

Riki-Lee’s gown was an elegant Evie Young Bridal gown with an A-line skirt. Matthew looked dapper in a Joe Black jacket with black dress pants, an ivory vest, and a single red boutonniere.

At Villa Botanica’s iconic terrace overlooking the Coral Sea, the couple exchanged vows in a traditional ceremony with a personal twist: an 11-year-old niece reading a Dr. Seuss poem and a few light-hearted moments that set the tone for the evening.

“One of my favourite memories was when Matt accidentally said ‘I do’ too early during his vows. Everyone giggled, and when it came to my turn, I did the same just to make him feel better!”

For the reception, the guests found themselves on the terrace where fairy lights twinkled and the sun bounced off the ocean. Their first dance to Life With You by Kelsey Hart set the tone for a night of laughter, speeches, and dancing beneath the Whitsundays stars.

“Villa Botanica was by far the most perfect decision I have ever made,” says Riki-Lee. “From the seamless planning process to the detailed wedding planner who was only ever a call away — we had endless comments all night long saying this is the best wedding anybody has ever been to,” say the loved-up newlyweds.

Ready to create your own Whitsundays love story? Explore stunning venues like Villa Botanica and start planning your dream coastal wedding with Easy Weddings.