Branagh and Max’s love story is a testament to the unpredictable beauty of fate. From their first meeting at university, where Branagh mistook Max for a lecturer and Max thought Branagh was the “biggest nerd,” to their deep friendship that blossomed over shared interests and study sessions, their journey to love was gradual and unexpected. Despite both having partners at the time, their bond grew stronger over six years until they finally realised they were meant to be together.
Their relationship took a romantic turn during a casino-themed Christmas party, where their first date led to a memorable kiss and a deeper connection. Sydney became their special place, with the QVB Tea Room holding a significant spot in their hearts. Max’s elaborate proposal, complete with clues and a lockbox, set the stage for their dream Halloween wedding at the QVB Tea Room, where they exchanged vows in a magical ceremony filled with laughter, heartfelt moments, and the spirit of Halloween.
As they begin this new chapter as a married couple, Branagh and Max’s love story continues to inspire. Their wedding, beautifully captured by Azayda Photography, was a celebration of love’s power to bring two people together in the most unexpected and beautiful ways. Following is the full feature on Polka Dot Wedding, where you can see stunning images and read about their unforgettable day. Cheers to Branagh and Max, whose love shines bright and whose future is filled with endless possibilities. Enjoy!
Love is often full of surprises, and for Branagh and Max, it all began on the campus of their university. Their journey from two strangers with contrasting first impressions to soulmates exchanging vows at the QVB Tea Room on Halloween, is a heart warming tale of true love.
A Chance Encounter at University
Branagh and Max crossed paths during their undergraduate psychology days, a fateful encounter that neither of them would ever forget. Branagh, sporting a unique look with her bright red hair, oversized bright yellow T-shirt, and a giant backpack full of textbooks, couldn’t help but notice Max’s initial impression. She thought he was a guest lecturer, and his attire exuded confidence. In contrast, Max thought Branagh was the “biggest nerd” with her quirky appearance.
From Strangers to Friends
Although their first impressions were less than flattering, destiny had more in store for them. Their shared interest in psychology brought them together as student reps for their year, all thanks to their favourite lecturer who introduced them via email. Little did they know that this would be the start of a beautiful journey. Over the years, they worked together on assignments, slowly forming a strong friendship. It was a gradual process, with both of them having partners during this time. Yet, something special was blooming, even if they couldn’t see it themselves. Friends for six years, they had no idea that their destinies were intertwined.
The First Spark
Their first date was a unique experience, initially starting as two friends attending a casino-themed Christmas party for work. The night was filled with laughter, drinks, and learning to play casino games. As the night unfolded, Max’s arm found its way around Branagh, and by the end of the evening, their first kiss sealed the beginning of their romantic journey.
The next day, they ventured to Hunter Valley Gardens, where Max gave Branagh a guided tour of all the places he had worked, further deepening their connection.
Sydney: Their Special Place
Living in the Hunter Valley, Sydney became Branagh and Max’s go-to holiday destination. They often stayed at the Casino and indulged in high tea at the QVB Tea Room, a place that held a special spot in their hearts. As their love blossomed, they shared dreams of getting married on Halloween.
Max’s proposal plan was a well-orchestrated puzzle that spanned several months. With clues, codes, and a lockbox, Branagh finally unlocked the box by 2 July, 2022, setting in motion the journey that led them to their wedding day.
A Magical Day at QVB Tea Room
Their wedding at the QVB Tea Room was nothing short of magical. The sun’s rays streamed through the grand windows, casting a warm glow on the couple as they exchanged heartfelt vows. Ben Ager, Marriage Celebrant, and Damien Southam created a ceremony filled with quirky, heartfelt moments that perfectly represented Branagh and Max’s unique love story.
The evening was an enchanting blend of laughter, touching speeches, and the spirit of Halloween. With ceramic pumpkins adorning the tables, the guests enjoyed the festivities, including dancing that lasted well into the night.
Branagh and Max’s wedding celebration was a testament to the power of love, demonstrating that sometimes, the most unexpected connections lead to the most beautiful destinations. As they embark on this new chapter, one thing is certain: their love story will continue to inspire us all.
In closing, Branagh and Max, may your life together be a wonderful and joyful journey filled with boundless love, fulfilled dreams, and countless adventures. As you embark on this new chapter as a married couple, may your love grow stronger with each passing day, and may every challenge you face only bring you closer.
It was truly an honour and privilege to be a part of your special day, not only as your Sydney Wedding MC and Sydney Wedding DJ but also as witness to the beautiful love story you’ve created. Your journey together has already inspired us all, and we can’t wait to see the incredible moments that the future holds for both of you.
Here’s to Branagh and Max, a couple whose love knows no bounds and whose future is filled with endless possibilities. Congratulations on your Halloween wedding, and may your love story continue to shine bright! ~ Serge
Photography & Video by DJ:Plus! Entertainment.
Key Songs
Groom & Groomsmen Processional: “Halo Theme” by Martin O’Donnell (Mjolnir Mix)
Bridesmaid Processional: “Adore You” by Miley Cyrus
Ringbearer Processional: “Concerning Hobbits” by Howard Shore
Bride’s Processional: “Skydiving” by Lights
Register Signing: “Can’t Help Falling In Love” by 21 Pilots, “Don’t Go Home Without Me” by Lights
Recessional: “I Write Sins Not Tragedies” by Vitamin String Quartet
Mother Of The Groom: “It’s Not Unusual” by Tom Jones
Parents Of The Bride Entry: “Somewhere Beyond The Sea” by Bobby Darin
Ring Bearer Entry: “Invisible” by Twelve Foot Ninja
Groomsman Entry: “Back In Black” by AC/DC
Best Man Entry: “Welcome To The Jungle” by Gun’s n Roses
Botantical Boy Entry: “I’m Good (Blue)” by David Guetta & Bebe Rexha
Bridesmaid Entry: “Can’t Stop The Feeling” by Justin Timberlake
Maid Of Honour Entry: “Anti Hero” by Taylor Swift
Bride & Groom Entry: “Doctor Who Theme” by Ron Grainer & Murray Gold
Cake Cutting: “But I Do Love You” by LeAnne Rimes
First Dance: “Darkness At The Heart Of My Love” by Ghost
Father Daughter Dance: “I Learned From You” by Billy Ray & Miley Cyrus
Mother Son Dance: “Shake Your Tailfeather” by Ray Charles
Bouquet Toss: “Man! I Feel Like A Woman” by Miley Cyrus
Cortney and Hil’s first encounter occurred in 2011, but it was not until 2012 that they started to interact more and a relationship began to develop. Cortney and Hil are a beautiful couple and their wedding celebration was full of family love, warmth and many emotions.
Following their ceremony earlier in the day at Barker College, Hornsby, they chose to celebrate at the Tea Room in the Queen Victoria Building, Sydney. With the room looking stunning, thanks to the lovely ladies from Decorations By Jelena, the fantastic wedding cake by Pretty Parties and the photographic and videographic skills of the team from Hugo Photography & Film, it was such a great celebration. Surrounded by family and friends, we were so privileged to witness a deep tender love that has grown despite the difficulties that these two have faced due to distance, as one was studying in Townville, Queensland and the other in Melbourne, Victoria over the past four years.
From our first meeting in the first week of this year, I could see that Hil totally and utterly adores Cortney, the way he always has his arm around her, the way he looks at her with loving eyes, she is his angel and he treats as such. Just as equally Cortney adores Hil. When they are together, they are rarely separated and Cortney just radiates joy. Together they are an awesome couple who are very deeply in love and work hard to ensure it remains that way.
During the reception there were many emotional moments for both Cortney, Hil, their respective parents, siblings and those nearest and dearest. All the speeches throughout the evening were meaningful as well as entertaining and was enjoyed by all the guests.
Around five weeks before the wedding I received an email from Hil with the subject of “Secret Song”. As nearly all my dealings in regards to the wedding had been with Cortney and her mum, Jeanie, the fact that I was receiving an email from Hil and that subject line had me more than a little curious. On opening the email, I discovered that Hil was planning to surprise Cortney by singing her a song during the wedding reception. It also asked whether I was able to provide two wireless microphones, patch in a guitar and requesting suggestions as to when would be best to sing the song. I replied with all the information he needed and asked that he confirm certain details. As I subsequently learnt during the best man’s speech, Hil is not one for returning texts and if he does, they tend to be very, very brief. This also appears to apply to emails, or so it seems – as when I did receive a response about five days prior to the wedding, it did not contain enough information for me to ensure that I was up to speed on the finer details of exactly how this was going to executed.
On the day of the wedding I came prepared with everything I could think I needed to pull this off, but was not even sure if it was going ahead – until minutes before the doors were to open to commence seating the guests, when in strolls a gentleman with a guitar. Quick patch in, tune, determine the levels and we were set. During the evening, in those rare moments when Cortney was not by his side, he was frantically going over the lyrics to the song and then following the cutting of the cake it was time for him to sing. Personally, I thought it was a beautiful moment, there are some photographs below that I managed to capture, but take a listen yourself to Hil singing Ed Sheeran’s “Tenerife Sea” to Cortney, aided by his friend, whose name I unfortunately didn’t get, on guitar and the best man, Gideon on backup vocals. The applause at the end of the song certainly verifies that it was quite a performance and a special moment.
As mentioned above, it was truly a beautiful wedding and I enjoyed every moment of my involvement in it. Cortney and Hil, thank you so much for the trust you placed in me and the honour and privilege you gave me in allowing me to play a part in this very special day as your Wedding DJ Sydney and for part of the evening, your Wedding MC Sydney. I hope you enjoyed every moment of your amazing wedding day. Based on everything I learnt about the two of you in the lead up to your wedding, you are completely perfect for each other! Your love will continue to grow even stronger with each passing day and I see nothing but a life filled with love for the both of you. Have a fabulous time on your honeymoon in New Zealand!! May, love, laughter and music fill your lives forever!!!
Photography & Video by DJ:Plus! Entertainment
Songs selected by Bride & Groom;
Wedding Party Entry: “Somewhere Over The Rainbow/What A Wonderful World” by Israel Kamakawiwo’ole
Bride & Bride Entry: “Happy” by Pharrell Williams
Cake Cutting: “Only You Can Love Me This Way” by Keith Urban
First Dance: “Unchained Melody” by Righteous Brothers
Parent Dance: “Annie’s Song” by John Denver
Bouquet Toss: “Dear Future Husband” by Meghan Trainor
Farewell Dance: “Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson Feat. Bruno Mars
