Private celebration for approximately 70 guests to celebrate the guest of honour turning 40 years of age. Held at the North Bondi Surf Club located right on world famous Bondi Beach. Guests enjoyed fantastic finger food throughout the evening in what was a relaxed and very enjoyable evening. Formalities was limited to one very quick speech and the rest of the evening dedicated to dancing.
I had the opportunity of meeting and working with photographer Daniel Griffiths last Saturday at Amanda and David’s wedding reception. May I just say that it was a great pleasure to work with Daniel, he displays a professional attitude and combines his vast experience in photography to deliver some amazing photos.Daniel was kind enough to provide me with the following photographs from Amanda and David’s special day – I am sure you will agree, the photos certainly capture the spirit and emotion of their day.
Amanda and David are a delightful couple who I had the pleasure of meeting a number of times leading up to their wedding day. In what turned out to be an absolutely perfect spring day, they celebrated their marriage with 175 invited guests at Doltone House Jones Bay Wharf. Guests enjoyed welcome drinks and canapes on the balcony whilst taking in views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge as the sun slowly set.
One very special person amongst the guests was Amanda’s grandfather who is in his nineties. It was later revealed that he had been looking forward and waiting all year for this day to come. David was also blessed with having one set of grandparents present at the reception. Sadly his other grandparents were unable to travel from the United States to join them in the celebration – however his aunt & uncle were able to make the trip.
As guests entered the room they were greeted by a fantastic canvas portrait of Amanda and David, whilst I have included a photograph below, my photograph certainly does not do the portrait any justice.
Following a lovely meal, it was time for the speeches. Amanda’s dad, Michael was up first and commenced by addressing David’s family in Italian – this was a very lovely touch which was greatly appreciated by the Italian speaking guests. David’s dad Eric followed, then the bestman James and finally David.
After the speeches, David surprised Amanda by presenting her with red roses, chocolates and a stunning diamond necklace. They then cut the wedding cake and took to the dance floor for their first dance to a beautiful song by Eros Ramazzotti and Anastacia. The members of the bridal party and invited guests then joined them on the dance floor.
All too quickly, it was suddenly time for Amanda and David to say goodbye, but not before Amanda had a chance to have a dance with her dad. Amanda had selected the most perfect song for this dance, I Ask (Amanda) – a song where a father is speaking to his daughter, Amanda on her wedding day, it was a emotional moment for both of them as can be seen in the photo and video clip below.
It was an elegant and fun reception with some emotional moments. This lovely couple are very much in love and there was frequent open expression of this throughout the reception. It was an absolute privilege to have been a part of their special day.
(Below) Amanda dancing with her Dad
Songs selected by Bride and Groom;
Grandparents Entry Song: “Moondance” by Michael Buble
Bridal Party Entry Song: “Rain Down Love” by Freemasons Feat. Sideah Garrett
Bride & Groom Entry Song: “Rain Down Love” by Freemasons Feat. Sideah Garrett
Cake Cutting Song: “My Baby Just Cares For Me” by Natalie Cole
Bridal Waltz/First Dance: “I Belong To You (Il Ritmo Della Passione)” by Eros Ramazzotti & Anastacia
Father /Daughter Dance: “I Ask (Amanda)” by Richard Frankz
Bouquet Toss: “Ladies Night” by Kool & The Gang
Garter Toss: “Legs” by ZZ Top
Farewell Circle: “Come Away With Me” by Norah Jones, “Thank You” by Dido, “My Happiness” by Powderfinger
Final Farewell Song: “On A Night Like This” by Kylie Minogue
