• Featured
  • You
  • Wisdom
  • Made
  • Honeymoons
  • Directory
  • Podcast
  • Shop
  • Advertise
  • About
  • Directory
  • Shop
  • Podcast
  • Contact Us
  • Make A Submission
  • Login
  • Register

Francesca & Evan’s Fun Outdoor Country Wedding In Castlemaine

10.03.20
Featured Inspired Weddings

Francesca & Evan

You’re invited to a day in the country. Imagine glasses of cold bubbles as you take your place under the dappled shade, of a feast fit for kings under the summer dusk sky, the sound of icecream chimes as dessert rolls in. It’s all this and more as Francesca and Evan’s fun outdoor country wedding in Castlemaine comes to life.

And in an ode to The Bridesmaid Issue, Francesca’s leading ladies completely nailing that relaxed, country-style (and proving bridesmaid style in the country is ever-beautiful).

Photography by Sarah J was behind the camera for this one, for a day, a story, in Francesca’s words, that began (and aptly ended, read on for that) with a little of Bonnie Taylor’s “Total Eclipse Of The Heart”.  “My housemate kept trying to set me up with his best friend for such a long time, that I got sick of him trying to make things happen and had no interest in meeting him. We all went out one night for a sing-a-long at a piano bar, we all began singing ‘Total Eclipse of the Heart’ and when it was time for us to “turn around”, I turned, and at that moment we locked eyes.”

The proposal unfolded in the Philippines, with the help of Hello Kitty and Spiderman, tells the bride. “We were holidaying in the Philippines, floating on inflatable rings down the beautiful beach of Boracay, his a blue Spiderman, mine a pink Hello-Kitty. We floated past a wedding taking place on the beach, Ed Sheeran was blasting out of the speakers (probably the 100th time we’d heard that song for the past few weeks). The sun was setting and I knew what was about to happen, I just knew. He tried getting down on one knee, but the water was too deep. He said, “Let’s get married”. I smiled and didn’t have to say anything because we both knew how we felt.”

Country Castlemaine venue The Diggers Store hosted the big day, the couple spending plenty of waking hours setting up space and decorating it. The bride explaining “Both our wedding and reception were held at the same venue. We hired this beautiful old diggers’ store, now converted to art space and analog recording studio, conveniently located right next door to my maid of honour’s house where we got ready on the day. They have an orchard, chicken coop, stone barn, vintage bed and breakfast, plus a picture-perfect facade with red double-doors leading you into the front room. We got married under the large tree by the orchard.”

The bride found her gown at Belle et Blanc, just the ticket for a hot summer’s day! She shares “I needed something that would breathe, as it was the middle of summer and an outdoor wedding. It was light and flowy.”

Francesca’s bridesmaids, her treasured favourite women, wore floor-length gowns from Cocktail Boutique. “My maid of honour was my best friend Ann” explains Francesca. “We first met in year 8 through band. My 2 cousins, Excell and Edeva, who are also sisters. We grew up together our whole lives. All 3 girls are sisters to me.”

Fransceca styled the floral details herself, a dream come true. She explains “It has always been my dream to do my own flower arrangements, I picked out colours that would complement the bridesmaid’s dresses and the landscape around us. They included a mixture of white and soft pink roses, silver dollar eucalyptus, smoke bush, dahlias, sea holly, bunny tail grass which I picked from a field, Banksia, long gum leaves, ferns, peppercorn and a few other bits and pieces. I used them for different parts of the wedding.”

For her walk down the aisle? Francesca shares “My Father walked me down the aisle. We had a country singer playing guitar and violin player. It was an instrumental of ‘I’ll have to say I love you in a song” .

Francesca and Evan chose Jac the Hitcher to officiate their day. “The ceremony and reception were all outdoors. It was a warm summer’s afternoon. We were surrounded by our closest friends and family – the ultimate family gathering. We really wanted to create a relaxed vibe. Jac, our total hipster celebrant, kept it light, fun and totally personalised. She was entertaining and engaging.”

This truly was a handmade day, right down to the succulent wedding favours! Francesca explains “So much of our wedding was DIY… the invitations (all handmade, hot-glued and hand-painted), bouquets/flower arrangements, table settings, festoons and lighting, the maypole constructed from a truss and calico… the giveaways!!! 80 handmade mini terrariums with little trees inside, sealed and labels printed and tied in a bow. And so so much more!”

“Sarah J. was an absolute delight, ” tells the bride of the couple’s chosen photographer. “We all felt comfortable around her right away which made the whole process so easy and stress-free. She really listened to what I wanted and she delivered. I didn’t want ordinary generic wedding photos, I wanted them to be creative and worth framing. I love her style and there wasn’t a single photo I didn’t love!”

Handmade? Yes, But also sentimental, says Francesca. Even the tables had a little heartfelt joy. “We used a lot of my grandmother’s handmade crochet blankets and doilies to decorate all the dinner tables and rooms. They were given to me after she passed away”.

A summer outdoor wedding requires a feast to suit,  Under The Apple Tree made it all happen!. Francesca raving “I must mention our caterer, Jason. Everyone raved about the food. It was all local produce from Castlemaine. We had platters and share plates on the tables. If you want real food at your wedding and not the same old reception food you’d usually expect (chicken or fish?), then check out Under The Apple Tree. (The cake was also made by a local from Castlemaine. Beverages also local to Castlemaine).”

The newlyweds surprised their guests by having Icecream Social to serve up an icy cold dessert treat! “No-one suspected a thing… even I forgot it was coming” laughs Francesca. “The look and reaction it received from everyone was amazement, they clapped and cheered.”

The dance floor singalongs? Francesca’s favourite part of the day thanks to DJ Record Low. “The whole day was special and we have so many people to thank for it. But if I had to pick one, it would be standing side-by-side, or rather turned around, on fold-out chairs (me in my stilettos), holding hands and fist-pumping into the air, as we screamed out on the top of our lungs the lyrics the ‘Total eclipse of the heart’. I think it’s because it felt so momentous, the whole day was really.”

A big congratulations to you both Francesca and Evan! Thank you for sharing your beautiful day and it’s stories with us. Thank you also to Photography by Sarah J for sharing today’s images!

BY
Ms Polka (Dorothy)
PHOTOGRAPHY
Photography by Sarah J
VIEW FULL PHOTO GALLERY
Story Snippets
Style
Handmade
Setting
Art Gallery
Country
Historical Venue
Hotel
Outdoor
Location
Australia
Goldfields
Victoria
Season
Summer
Colours
The Local Issue

Supporting our locals! Why not stay close to home when planning and celebrating your wedding. We share how to shop locally, choose local vendors, celebrate and honeymoon locally and more.

READ MORE
Wedding Directory

Search our Vendors

View Vendors
OR SEEK A VENDOR BY NAME...

More for you...

Polka Dot Featured
20+ Pretty In Pink Wedding Veils
  Pink is never just one thing. It can be soft and romantic, bold and bright, vintage, modern, sweet, or […]
READ MORE
Polka Dot You
Suzie & Sam’s Moody Winter Wedding At Rupert On Rupert
  Earlier this year, we shared the story of Suzie Stevens’ incredible wedding gown, and today, we get to show […]
READ MORE
Polka Dot Wisdom
A Complete Guide to Pink Wedding Flowers
  As we wrap up our beautifully bold Pink Issue, what better way to say farewell than with florals in […]
READ MORE
Vincent Mango tropical wedding cocktail recipe by Rooftop at QT Melbourne
Polka Dot Made
Cocktail Friday: Vincent Mango by QT Rooftop Melbourne
  Dreaming of a tropical wedding but tied to a rooftop in Melbourne? It’s Cocktail Friday and we’re sharing a […]
READ MORE
Polka Dot Honeymoons
Big Days And Beautiful Honeymoons At The Glasshouse Hotel Edinburgh
  From cobbled streets to castle views, Edinburgh has long been a city of storybook moments, perfect for romantic strolls […]
READ MORE

Story credits

This story also features the following wedding vendors.
If you've been featured below, we'd love to get to know you. Click here to join Polka Dot Wedding.
Photographer
Photography by Sarah J
Bride's Dress
Belle et Blanc
Bridesmaid Dresses
Cocktail Boutique
Groom & Groomsmen Attire
Calibre
Flowers
Bride
Venue
The Diggers Store
Ceremony Officiant
Jac the Hitcher
Hair & Makeup Artist
Boudoir Hair and Beauty
Catering
Under The Apple Tree
Icecream Truck
Icecream Social
DJ
Record Low

Join the conversation Cancel Reply

3 comments

  1. Pingback: Fun Outdoor Country Wedding In Castlemaine – A Wedding By Jeff
  2. Kenny says:
    11 March 2020 at 6:42 am

    Love Castlemaine, the best backdrop for an outdoor wedding.

    Reply
  3. Scout says:
    11 March 2020 at 6:42 am

    Love this wedding.

    Reply

Follow Us on Instagram...

@polkadotwedding
It’s the International Day of Friendship, so we’re celebrating it the best way we know how: with real wedding moments that show what friendship really looks like.

The glasses clinking. The veils fluffed. The smudges wiped away. The emotion of watching your best friend walk down the aisle. The pre-wedding hype crew who show up with love, laughter, and lash glue.

This is friendship in all its wedding-day magic.

Want to see more of a moment? Drop the couple’s name in the comments and we’ll send you their wedding story.

Intro video by Cottonbro Studio. Full credits in comments.

[Reel description: A video of women dancing against a white backdrop holding bouquets of flowers. The words “This Is Friendship” are overlaid. Set to ABBA•Voulez-Vous.]

#PolkaDotWedding #FeelGoodWeddings #AustralianWeddings 
#Bridesmaids #InternationalDayOfFriendship 

1. Jamie & James. Photo by @_emmahampton_

2. Zoe & Jacob. Photo by @cloudcatcherstudio

3. Emma & Will. Photo by @chamorecreations

4. Ali & Max. Photo by @piptakesapicture

5. Chelsea & Lachie. Photo by @azure_creative_photography

6. Holly & John. Photo by @leofarrellphoto

7. Victor & Stephanie. Photo by @redbookstudios

8. Michael & Joyeeta. Photo by @callanrobisonphoto

9. Alana & Thomas. Photo by @rachaelv.photography

10. Ally & Jack. Photo by @tillyrobertsphoto

11. Johanna & Josh. Photo by @sarahgodenziphotography

12. Emily & Brendan. Photo by @girlandthewolfphotography

13. Jacynta & Mike. Photo by @westcreative

14. Emma & Will. Photo by @chamorecreations

15. Chris & Kate. Photo by @itsbeautifulhere
What if your styling didn’t just sit on the land What if your styling didn’t just sit on the land: but moved with it?⁠
⁠
Aisle Adrift is set along a secluded Tasmanian river, where florals floated, fabric rippled, and every detail was designed to feel part of the landscape, not just placed on top. 
⁠
This dreamy collaboration between @bloomsbymelfloralstyling, @mollieandmaestyling, @lovecoco_weddings and @rheanna.lee.photography is now live on Polka Dot Featured - and it’s one you won’t want to miss.⁠
⁠
Photographer: @rheanna.lee.photography / Styling: @mollieandmaestyling / Flowers: @bloomsbymelfloralstyling / Linens: @harrythehirer / Invitations & Stationery: @lovecoco_weddings / Wedding Cake: @batterandbloomtas / Rental Furniture: @weedinghire / Rental Furniture: @peppermintparties.devonport⁠
⁠
[Video description: Shots of the creative team setting up this stunning Aisle Adrift styled shoot, with long panning shots from overhead and quick zooming shots from front on, as dreamy music plays in the background.]
⁠
⁠
#PolkaDotWedding #FeelGoodWeddings #AustralianWeddings  #WeddingInspiration #AisleAdrift #RiverWedding #WaterReception #Wedding #Weddings #WeddingInspo #StyledShoot #AustralianWedding #WeddingStyle #CreativeWedding #WeddingIdeas #WeddingBlog
“I love colour, I love happy moments, I love cap “I love colour, I love happy moments, I love capturing people in spaces and telling stories with images.” That’s @jackchauvelphoto in a nutshell – and exactly why we adore him.⁠
⁠
From backyard weddings to epic elopements in Iceland, Jack captures every celebration with heart, connection and a whole lot of joy. Based in Newcastle and Sydney (but shooting worldwide!), he’s all about real moments and real people.⁠
⁠
Bonus for Polka Dot couples: Book a full-day package and receive a free engagement shoot! Link in bio for the details.⁠
⁠
Photographers – thinking of joining our directory? You know where to click.⁠
⁠
[Image one description: The bride walks alongside her mother, dressed in a white lehengha adorned with intricate floral details and traditional South Asian jewellery, carrying a vibrant bouquet. Her mum wears a rich red saree with gold embroidery. Both are smiling warmly at each other as they walk a garden path lined with greenery.⁠
⁠
Image two description: Golden-hour light bathes this couple, who stand embraced beneath a large tree, soft sunlight glowing through the bride's veil. The groom wears a cream-coloured suit. They gaze at each other lovingly, bathed in warm, dreamy light.]⁠
⁠
⁠
#PolkaDotWedding #FeelGoodWeddings #AustralianWeddings #AustralianWedding #WeddingVendors #WeddingDirectory #WeddingPhotography#WeddingWebsite #WeddingInspo #WeddingInspiration #WeddingBlogger
Tradition, but make it fabulously queer! @royyyyyy Tradition, but make it fabulously queer! @royyyyyylim and @seanieo ⁠ honoured the tea ceremony tradition, but tailored it to them – dressed in statement-making outfits.⁠
⁠
As they put it: "We felt it was important to honour the tea ceremony tradition, yet at the same time queer it up as a queer couple. The photos of us in our over-the-top fabulous outfits are definitely some of our favourites." ⁠
⁠
Photographer: @lulu_and_lime⁠
⁠
[Image description: A photo of Roy and Sean dressed in two contrasting outfits. The groom on the left is wearing a hot pink ensemble with a dramatic feather boa and silver platform boots, while the other is in a black, crystal-studded outfit and oversized hat with netting. They're laughing with their guests who are drinking tea, with a text overlay reading: "We felt it was important to honour the tea ceremony tradition, yet at the same time queer it up as a queer couple. The photos of us in our over-the-top fabulous outfits are definitely some of our favourites." – Sean.]⁠
⁠
#PolkaDotWedding #FeelGoodWeddings #AustralianWeddings #QueerJoy #QueerWedding #FabulousWedding #AustralianWedding #WeddingStory #WeddingStories #WeddingMemories #WeddingInspiration #WeddingInspo #RealWedding #TeaCeremony
From soft blush to bold magenta, pink is more than From soft blush to bold magenta, pink is more than just a colour; it’s a wedding mood. ⁠
⁠
To close out our Pink Issue in style, we’ve teamed up with the incredibly talented styling duo at @beautifulweddingsaustralia for their complete guide to pink wedding flowers.⁠
⁠
Creative director Nicole Ritchie and head florist Demi-May Pearce break down their expert floral advice, from seasonal pink bloom picks and perfect colour pairings to tips on how to make your pink palette feel elevated, intentional and oh-so-you. Whether you're dreaming of whimsical garden vibes or dramatic, architectural arrangements, this guide has all the floral inspo you’ll ever need.⁠
⁠
Captured beautifully by @wearetwine at the stunning @victoriapark, it’s the pink floral feast your wedding dreams have been waiting for.⁠
⁠
Photographer: @wearetwine / Venue: @victoriapark (coordinators, Jordyn and Jessie) / Styling: @beautifulweddingsaustralia / Invitations & Stationery: @kctimesco / Hair & Makeup Artist: @bella_brides / Bride's Dress: @whenfreddiemetlilly / Groom's Attire: @whenfreddiemetlilly / Cake: @thesweetsocietyco / Champagne Tower: @bubbleover_champagnetowers / Models: @caitlin_worthington @jacobchadburn ⁠
⁠
[Image description: A bride and groom stand beneath a white ceremony arbour, surrounded by vibrant pink floral arrangements in varying shades - from soft blush to deep magenta and fuchsia. The bride wears a classic off-the-shoulder white gown and holds a bouquet of vivid pink blooms, while the groom complements the palette in a red velvet tuxedo jacket. The aisle is lined with lush, abundant flowers, creating a romantic and visually striking scene.]⁠
⁠
#PolkaDotWedding #FeelGoodWeddings #ThePinkIssue #PinkWedding #PinkWeddingDress #PinkWeddings #PinkWeddingGown #PinkBridalGown #PinkWeddingDecor #PinkBridesmaidsDress #PinkBouquet #PinkDecor #PinkFlowers
Blush, fuchsia, hot pink, pastel. However you wear Blush, fuchsia, hot pink, pastel. However you wear it, a pink veil is pure joy.⁠
⁠
We’ve rounded up our favourite pink veils, from soft ombré styles to dramatic ruffles, hand-painted art pieces to flower-covered stunners. You’ll find something playful, romantic, and just a little unexpected.⁠
⁠
Hit the link in our bio to see them all.⁠
⁠
This veil by @tiffmanuellbridal worn by Chelsey & captured by @timewithalex.co⁠
⁠
⁠[Image description: A bride is laughing, while hiding behind her veil full of pastel swirls of colour. She's wearing a bright orange dress underneath, absolutely bursting with vibrancy.]⁠
⁠
#PolkaDotWedding #FeelGoodWeddings #ThePinkIssue #PinkWedding #PinkWeddingDress #PinkWeddings #PinkWeddingGown #PinkBridalGown #PinkWeddingDecor #PinkBridesmaidsDress #PinkBouquet #PinkVeils #ColourfulVeils #FunVeils
What do you get when you mix a historic church façade, rooftop gardens with views to Calton Hill, and the warm glow of a boutique hotel fireplace? A wedding venue and honeymoon stay rolled into one unforgettable experience.⁠
⁠
Our resident honeymoon expert Lisa Perkovic checked into @glasshouse_edinburgh and discovered just how seamlessly romance and celebration can come together in one place.⁠
⁠
Say "I do" on the rooftop lawn and wander the cobbled streets of Edinburgh’s Old Town⁠
⁠
Read the full blog on Polka Dot Honeymoons now via the link in our bio. ⁠
⁠
[Image description: This image showcases a striking blend of historical and contemporary architecture of The Glasshouse Edinburgh. At the centre is a historic stone building with Gothic-style features, including arched windows with mullions, ornate carvings, and a crenellated parapet. The structure has a central tower with a round clock face at the top, adding a traditional element to the scene. Surrounding the heritage building on both sides is a sleek, modern glass facade. The contrast between the old and new is visually prominent. The base of the historic building is adorned with potted plants and small topiary trees, adding a touch of greenery to the urban setting. A paved walkway in the foreground leads to the entrance, suggesting this is a public or commercial space that embraces both past and present in its architectural identity.]⁠
⁠
#PolkaDotWedding #PolkaDotHoneymoons #FeelGoodWeddings #Honeymoon #HoneymoonIdeas #Honeymoons #Honeymooning #HoneymoonVibes #HoneymoonDiaries #LuxuryTravel #LuxuryHoneymoon #Travel #Travelling #TravelIdeas #Edinburgh #Scotland #DestinationWedding

Take a little peek around
the feel good weddings website

Discover

  • Featured
  • Wisdom
  • Made
  • You
  • Honeymoons
  • Podcast
  • Shop

Directories

  • Wedding Directory
  • Honeymoon Directory

Search By

  • Categories
  • Inspired Weddings
  • Images
  • Colour
  • Location
  • Style
  • Setting
  • Season
  • Monthly Issues

Meet & Greet

  • About
  • Diversity and Inclusion Statement
  • Contact Us
  • Log In

Show & Share

  • Make a submission
  • Submit your wedding or honeymoon
  • Advertise with us
  • Badges

Newsletter Sign Up

Join Polka Dot Circle
for Polka Dot Fun delivered direct to your inbox.
  • DD slash MM slash YYYY
  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

© Copyright Polka Dot Wedding 2025
Sign up to our newsletter, Polka Dot Circle
for Polka Dot Fun delivered direct to your inbox.
Join today
...AND GET A
FREE WEDDING
INSPIRATION GUIDE
Name(Required)
DD slash MM slash YYYY
DD slash MM slash YYYY

Send a Message
To:
Name(Required)
DD slash MM slash YYYY
Hidden
Want to sign up to the Polka Dot Circle newsletter?
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

LOG IN

Log In


Lost Password?

JOIN THE FEEL GOOD WEDDING BLOG

We've created a central space for couples, vendors and partners.
Register now
Search
Open toolbar Accessibility Tools

Accessibility Tools

  • Increase TextIncrease Text
  • Decrease TextDecrease Text
  • GrayscaleGrayscale
  • High ContrastHigh Contrast
  • Negative ContrastNegative Contrast
  • Light BackgroundLight Background
  • Links UnderlineLinks Underline
  • Readable FontReadable Font
  • Reset Reset