What happens when two high school friends turned lifelong soulmates decide to tie the knot? A bush doof wedding, of course! Dom and Gemma transformed Sokil Arts Eco Retreat into the ultimate blend of nature and festivity, complete with glamping tents, bespoke attire, and DIY touches from their talented friends and family. Set against the backdrop of towering trees and golden sunsets, their wedding wasn’t just a celebration – it was an experience. With a laid-back vibe and heartfelt moments, it was perfectly captured by Leah Hulst Photography.

Dom and Gemma first crossed paths in high school, colliding through mutual friends. While sparks didn’t fly immediately, their instant friendship steadily enhanced their connection over time. Their love story is a beautiful example of the best kind of love stories; the ones built on friendship that blossomed into a meaningful relationship!

While on a trip to Ireland for a friend’s wedding, Dom surprised Gemma by proposing! “Ireland held significant meaning for us, as we had lived there together, and both of our fathers are originally from the Emerald Isle,” shared Gemma.

Their bush doof wedding was held at the stunning Sokil Arts Eco Retreat up in country Victoria, with picturesque views and natural beauty. Guests had the option to stay the night in either the on-site cabins, bring their own gear or stay in the glamping tents provided by Twilight Glamping!

Dom broke out of the classic black suit for the day and opted for a custom green suit tailored by a local designer, Reigner Clothing. Featuring intricate white piping on the jacket, this modern take on groom attire was a stunning addition that perfectly matched their bush doof wedding vibe. He paired the jacket with matching fitted pants, a brown leather belt, and boots.

His wedding party were dressed in classic black suits with a hint of green in the bow tie – tying their classic styling with the wedding’s natural vibe.

Gemma’s look was timeless and elegant, wearing a custom gown by Natasha at Van Der Kooij. Her dress was made up of two main elements: the structured silk dupion gown and the soft silk overlay. She later removed the overlay for the reception for a more versatile look. “The design process with Natasha was a dream, as her meticulous craftsmanship and creative vision brought the dress to life.”

Her earrings and wedding rings were especially meaningful pieces, as her friend Katja Novakovic had handcrafted them from Gemma’s mother’s jewellery. The gold and opal touches served as a sentimental keepsake and a stunning accessory.

Supported by her five bridesmaids, who wore these gorgeous olive-toned Bec & Bridge dresses, Gemma’s wedding party added a chic vibe to this glamorous glamping wedding.

Their ceremony was surrounded by bush and held in a secluded clearing. Complete with the stunning native arbour handcrafted by their friend Will. To kick off the proceedings, Gemma and Dom had their two flower girls walk their beloved dog Makita down the aisle! She wore a delightful little bow for the occasion. Gemma’s brother, Jack, lovingly walked her down the aisle as “Killing Moon” by Echo & The Bunnymen played.

Led by their friend Pat, the ceremony was deeply personal and heartfelt. Having their friend as the celebrant brought a welcomed, intimate, relaxed feel to the ceremony and allowed them to tailor it exactly how they wanted.

As they exchanged their personal vows, Pat shared touching anecdotes from throughout their relationship while honouring their loved ones who had passed. “A moment of silence allowed everyone to soak in the breathtaking surroundings, making the ceremony both meaningful and unforgettable.”

Thanks to Gemma and Dom’s creative friends and family, the day was infused with personal touches! Lucy from Ukiyo Studios hand-painted signs, save-the-date cards and day-of maps for the couple. Will created the gorgeous floral arbour and their friend Emily baked their stunning cake!

All of the incredible native bouquets, buttonholes and floral decorations from Native Bloom Co. were carefully selected to enhance the earthy theme of their bush wedding. “The vibrant native flowers added texture and colour, seamlessly blending with the outdoor surroundings.”

For the reception, guests moved out of the bush and into the cosy hall and outdoor marquee to continue the festival wedding vibes.

Dom’s friends Tom and Tricky Mack captured all the videography of the day, while their photographer Leah captured all the still moments. “Leah, Tom and Tricky Mack worked in unison and made us feel completely at ease, ensuring every shot was natural and genuine,” shared Gemma.

Both Dom and Gemma agree that their favourite detail of the day was the overwhelming community support from their friends and family. “Celebrating our love in such a beautiful setting, surrounded by loved ones, was truly unforgettable.”

The top five things that made their bush doof wedding so special were:

“1. Sharing the day with our families and friends.

2. The stunning venue that brought our vision to life.

3. Beautiful, heartfelt photography and videography to cherish forever.

4. Personal details that reflected our love story.

5. Dancing and celebrating with all our loved ones.”

Leah came highly recommended by one of their friends, and they couldn’t have been happier with how their photos turned out! “She had a natural talent for making us feel at ease in front of the camera, capturing genuine, candid moments that reflected the joy and authenticity of the day. Leah’s professionalism was shown by her ability to get all the shots without being really noticed; this made the pictures all seem super candid and genuine.”

Some of Gemma and Dom’s favourite photos from the day are these stunning gold hour shots. “These images perfectly encapsulated the magic and romance of the day. Leah had multiple different cameras for the day, including an old-school film camera, which produced some fantastic, authentic pictures. It was a great outcome overall.”

Instead of doing a traditional first dance, Dom and Gemma spent their reception mingling and celebrating with their guests. They really leaned into their laid-back vibe for the day and ensured everyone could share in the joy of their wedding.

Please join us in congratulating Gemma and Dom on their gorgeous bush doof wedding! And thanks to Leah Hulst Photography for capturing and sharing it with us.