After seeing so many beautiful weddings at Providence Gully, here are three things I would love my couples to know before they tie the knot:
Be realistic with DIY. As our venue allows couples to create a day that suits their style and personality, this usually involves some kind of DIY project. I absolutely love seeing the different decorating and styling ideas each couple bring to the property. However, having seen couples who take on numerous DIY projects (sometimes maybe one too many!) my advice would be to give yourself a cut off date for inspiration…
There are only so many ‘Pinterest projects’ you can take on board! Have fun collecting your ideas from all the different sources available (magazines, Pinterest, Instagram, blogs etc;) it’s a bit like packing a suitcase – throw everything in and then give yourself a cut off date. Stopping two months out from the wedding works best in my experience. This way you’re not taking on new projects too close to the wedding date and you can focus on getting all the projects completed stress free!
Drinks all round! Another piece of advice I often give to my couples at our venue is regarding beverages. As our venue is self catering, and allows couples to select their own choice of beverages, it’s up to them to choose what they would like to serve to their guests.
This is great because unlike many other venues, couples are not locked into a certain wine or beer; they can choose whatever they like and it can be tailored to their tastes. Or as many couples have done in the past, they can choose wines or beers that they have enjoyed together (maybe they were engaged in Italy so they want an Italian wine/beer/cocktail to personalise their day!)
In my experience, however, many couples put all the focus on the alcoholic drinks (now don’t get me wrong, I love a glass of vino or three!) but often they neglect to consider putting some time and effort into the non alcoholic drinks. There are so many delicious non alcoholic drinks out there now that it seems silly to neglect the poor designated driver or pregnant woman – they too would appreciate a tasty bevy, and not always the usual Pepsi or Solo.
Image by Providence Gully
Learn something new together. Once a couple set their date and lock in their venue the planning can be all consuming, especially as the day is fast approaching. There are just so many things to do! My third piece of advice to couples is to take some time out together! I know people often say this, but they say it for good reason. And, in my opinion, a great way of doing this is to learn something new together.
One couple we had at Providence Gully spent their time together in the lead up to the big day taking some dance lessons. I think this is perfect, especially if neither of you are usually this way inclined – what a way for you both to work together to gain a new skill. The bonus is when, on the night, your family and friends are all set for the usual ‘bridal shuffle’ (an all too common occurrence I’m afraid) and you both come out and wow them with a smooth, coordinated and romantic dance; they will be left absolutely gob smacked! This works even better when it is kept a secret for extra impact. You will be amazed how much fun and laughs you will both have together!
All images, unless credited, by Briars Atlas
Ms Chinoiserie Says: Wonderful advice about not taking on too many DIY projects; they can look lovely, but you don’t want to be adding the finishing touches the night before your wedding!
About Providence Gully: Nestled in a quiet copse of native gums, our venue is a carefully cultivated oasis for special occasions. We have reinvigorated the settler’s cottage, rustic barn and surrounding orchards with a careful eye to bring warmth and charm to this country property. Wander through the olive grove, apple orchards and vegetable gardens or sit in the shade and sip champagne whilst relaxing with guests and listening to the evening birdsong.
Join the conversation