4 October 2023

Monique & Jesse | Festival on the farm

The marriage of Monique and Jesse was a beautiful celebration of understated elegance. The couple, dressed in their finest, declared their love for each other under the 100 year old tallow-wood tree at The Gold Coast Farm House. Formalities quickly turned to frivolous fun as the pair celebrated with family and friends in true festival style. Music played a major role throughout the day and night, with a variety of gifted musicians on hand to soundtrack each special moment. For Monique and Jesse, their wedding was a dream come true.

Bride and groom dance together at their reception — Monique and Jesse danced the night away at their festival style wedding celebration

Names / Monique & Jesse

Wedding Date / 26 August 2023

Guest Numbers / 140

Theme / Bohemian Festival

Images of a bride and groom kissing after the ceremony and walking hand in hand — The couple took advantage of the beautiful Hinterland setting for their ceremony and photo shoot

THE PROPOSAL

Jesse surprised Monique with an unexpected proposal in New Years Eve 2019/20. After 9 years together, there were no real plans between the pair to get engaged or married. To Monique’s surprise, Jesse did have a plan, working behind the scenes with Monique’s sister to have a ring made. The couple joined family in Wollongong where they met for a low key family photo shoot. By the river bank at happy hour, Jesse popped the question. Groups of picnic goers applauded the newly engaged lovers and wished them well. Unfortunately, a global pandemic hit a few months later, so they had to wait a few more years for their big day.

A bride a groom have a wedding ceremony under an old tree — The 100 year old tallow-wood tree offered a spectacular backdrop for the ceremony

THE CEREMONY

For many couples, the wedding ceremony is usually the highlight of the day, and for Monique and Jesse this was no exception. Jesse’s favourite moment was seeing Monique walk down the aisle to “Simply the Best”, performed by Lily Budiasa. Jesse waited for Monique’s arrival under the 100 year old tallow-wood tree. The breathtaking natural backdrop was decorated with a stunning floral arrangement by Arctic Fox. The couple chose a close friend to introduce them and facilitate the ceremony, with a representative from the Gold Coast Registry Office on hand to officiate the marriage. Monique’s highlight was standing under the canopy with Jesse as dappled light peeked through the branches, highlighting the colours of the beautiful blooms.

” I remember it like a dream.”

Couple celebrate their wedding on the grounds of a Hinterland property — The Farm House grounds were a stunning complement to the couple’s elegant style

THE LOOK

While the theme of the wedding was Bohemian Festival, Monique and Jesse chose to stand out from the crowd with their elegant attire. Jesse was decked out in a sharp, black tuxedo while Monique was dripping in gold. Monique’s wedding gown was lovingly made by her mother based on her own design. It was a gold sheath dress that Monique customised throughout the day and night. For the ceremony, she wore a sheer, long sleeve overlay adorned with pearls. Chic and sophisticated this gave a more formal look for the nuptials. Monique then removed this and added sheer half sleeves and a neck tie in the same sheer pearled fabric.

Her blooms were a playful mix of pinks, purple, and ivory, reflecting the colours of her bridesmaid’s gowns. Hair was a simple, elegant braided bun, with natural, glowing makeup showing off Monique’s stunning natural beauty.

bride and groom celebrate after their wedding ceremony with a champagne tower — The wedding was full of special moments – intimate reflection and playful celebration

THE RECEPTION

The couple had their hearts set on an outdoor wedding with tipis. When they saw the triple tipi set up at the Farm House, they knew it was their venue. The tipis reflected the festival and bohemian vibe they were hoping for and accommodated the large guest list. Farm favourites, The Italian Job, catered the wedding reception, serving their delectable wood fired pizzas for guests to devour. The spectacular Airstream Bar provided drinks for the celebration, as well as an amazing visual display for photo opportunities.

A mix of musicians entertained the revelers through each stage of the celebration. From an acoustic soloist for the quieter moments, to a live band and DJ for the party, music played an integral part in the couple’s big day. Monique’s brother accompanied the DJ on saxophone as he made is way through the party. This was a highlight and something they would suggest other couples incorporate into their celebration.

One of Jesse’s most memorable moments was their entrance into the reception. With the music pumping, Monique and Jesse were welcomed by family and friends cheering and celebrating. The night was filled with dining, drinking, and dancing under the lights. During the night, a guest encouraged the couple to take a little breather and spend a quiet moment together. With the view of the raging party under the tipis, Monique and Jesse reflected on everything that led them to this moment.

“It was everything we wanted”

Three celebration tipis set up on the ground of the Gold Coast Farm House Day and Night — The triple tipi set up during the afternoon and lit up for a night to remember

ADVICE

Don’t compromise! Monique’s advice to other couples is to know what you want and make it happen. Your wedding is one of the most special celebrations of your life, so have everything you want to make it memorable. She also advises when you find a venue or vendor you love, to book early and make it happen!