Blue Mountains

  • Wedding Ceremony & Reception | 24 November 2018 | Shana & Erick | Chapel Hill Retreat, Berambing, Blue Mountains

    What an awesome day! Perfect weather, gorgeous couple, great venue and amazing details! I had sore cheeks from smiling all day and had to choke back tears several times too. I was so honoured that Shana and Erick invited me to play a part in their wedding celebration at Chapel Hill Retreat in the Blue Mountains. They are a genuinely lovely and thoughtful people and it was so wonderful to witness them celebrating their marriage surrounded by their close family and friends. So much attention to detail and love had gone into making it the amazing day it was.

    Shana and Erick’s journey leading up to their wedding day has spanned just over two decades. Some of that time has for reasons outside their control, has been challenging, but together they have made it through and their love is stronger than ever. They first met during High School in 1997 and not long after meeting, realised they were in love. Circumstances caused them to be separated and whilst their lives took on very different paths, their love for each other never diminished.

    It was not until 2010 that they reconnected through the marvel of social media and before long, they were building a life together. Whilst they are very different as individuals, with Erick being hot headed & impulsive and Shana passive, calm & organised, they complement each other perfectly. As life progressed, they worked through the complexities of the past, settled and added to their beautiful family. In late 2017 Erick was ready to make Shana’s dream from when she was fifteen come true. In early 2018, he secretly organised an engagement ring, booked a trip to Uluru for his birthday. On the second day at sunset on 26 February 2018, Erick proposed to Shana. Shana doesn’t remember saying yes (she did!) as it is all a bit of a blur to her now, a result of being caught up in the emotion and the surprise element of the moment.

    Fast forward to 24 November 2018 and here we were in the small Chapel at Chapel Hill Retreat. Erick along with Best Man, Csaba and Groomsman, Nicolas and gathered guests were waiting with Celebrant, Philip Timbrell for Shana to arrive. As the first notes of Luke Bryant’s “To The Moon & Back” commenced and filled the air, flower girls, Taliyah and Zara, followed by bridesmaid, Hannah and Maid of Honour, Jenni made their way to the front of the Chapel. A short pause for a very special emotional tribute to honour the memory of Shana’s Dad before Shana, who was about to marry the love of her life, took those final few steps down the aisle. It was a beautiful ceremony with lots of love, emotion and that represented them. Shana’s vows included the following words;

    “I’m so happy this moment that I have always dreamt of has finally arrived. I can’t wait to spend the rest of my life with you as my husband.”

    and Erick’s vows commenced with;

    “Shana, ever since we first met at high school, you have always been the one that I have wanted to share my life with. I cannot explain why – as you have said, we are as different as the sun and the moon, yet like two pieces of a jigsaw, we were made for each other.”

    Both vowed that “From this day forward, let us along with our children, build our family together – a family filled with love and laughter.”

    Finally after 21 years their dream had become a reality! They were now husband and wife!!!

    After the ceremony, Shana, Erick and their guests had a group photograph taken and then headed off with their wedding party around the Chapel Hill grounds with photographer Ben of Ben Newnam Photography and videographer, Tony of Blaycam Video Production to capture some amazing wedding feels.

    Shana and Erick’s celebration was full of LOVE. It was everywhere!! – You could feel it, it was in the air, it was in everybody’s hearts, and in the very unlikely event that you needed to be reminded in any way, the word was featured in subtle ways throughout the entire reception room. We greeted the newlyweds and their wedding party with great applause, followed by the cutting of the wedding cake and then a very special first dance filled with more love. Guests were then invited to join Shana and Erick on the dance floor for a short dance set.

    Following the Entree, there were beautiful heartfelt speeches from Maid of Honour, Jenni and Groomsman, Nicolas, some fun, the Main Meal, more fun, Dessert and then our second set of lovely speeches from Best Man, Csaba and our groom, Erick. Erick concluded his speech by requesting a Daddy Daughter dance with his three beautiful girls, Hannah, Taliyah and Zara.

    At this point unbeknownst to Shana, who’s birthday fell during the past week, Erick had organised a birthday cake for her and then asked her to join him for a birthday dance – another beautiful moment. They were soon joined by the wedding party and guests and it was then party time! With a mix of current, classic and traditional music, guests enjoyed dancing the night away.

    All too soon it was time for the bouquet and garter toss, farewell circle/circle of love, a farewell dance and Shana and Erick departed to honour their lifelong vow to continue building a family filled with love and laughter.

    Knowing their story, and to see Shana and Erick’s childhood dream become a reality made my heart was so very happy. For me, weddings are just so beautiful, amazing and dynamic. Personally, I just relish in seeing how much love and joy can flow between two people, then watching how much emotion this love generates amongst the people around them. It is incredible to witness and such a privilege to be a part of. Shana and Erick I cannot thank you enough. It was a total pleasure and I hope that I was able to add some special touches to the memories that you will always treasure. I know your love will continue to grow, it has withstood so much and has never faltered. May love, laughter and music continue to fill your lives forever!!!

    Photography by DJ:Plus! Entertainment


    Songs selected by Bride & Groom;

    Bridesmaids Processional: “To The Moon and Back” by Luke Bryan

    Bride Processional: “To The Moon and Back” by Luke Bryan (DJ:Plus! Custom Edit)

    Register Signing: “At The Beginning” by Richard Marx & Donna Lewis, “Endless Love” by Luther Vandross & Mariah Carey

    Recessional: “The Deeper The Love” by Whitesnake

    Wedding Party Entry: “I Gotta Feeling” by Black Eyed Peas

    Bride & Groom Entry: “Highway To Hell / I’m All Yours” by AC/DC / Jay Sean Feat. Pitbull

    Cake Cutting: “I’m All Yours” by Jay Sean Feat. Pitbull

    First Dance: “Perfect” by Ed Sheeran (DJ:Plus! Custom Edit)

    Father Daughter Dance: “Disney Medley” by Ashley Hess

    Bouquet Toss: “Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It)” by Beyonce

    Garter Toss: “Another One Bites The Dust” by Queen

    Farewell Circle/Circle Of Love: “Forever Country” by Artists of Then, Now & Forever, “Making Memories Of Us” by Keith Urban

    Farewell Dance: “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” by Whitney Housten

    Final Farewell Song: “Ever, Ever After” by Carrie Underwood


    Other Wedding Professionals

    Celebrant: Phillip Timbrell

    Photographer: Ben Newnam Photography

    Videographer: Blaycam Video Productions


  • Wedding Ceremony & Reception | 13 October 2018 | Frank & Nick | Yester Grange, Wentworth Falls, Blue Mountains

    Frank and Nick’s wedding was all about love and acceptance. Whilst I have previously entertained for same sex couples making lifelong commitments, these have been before marriage equality law was passed in Australia. They selected Yester Grange at Wentworth Falls in the Blue Mountains as the location for their ceremony and reception. Yester Grange is nestled amongst 20 acres of totally private parkland and garden at the top of the Wentworth Falls waterfall and National Park which was very fitting as no matter where in the world they are (Frank and Nick are prolific travellers), they always seem to happen across a waterfall.

    The ceremony commenced with Frank and Nick walking in separately from either side of the ceremony location and following the ceremony, which was beautifully officiated by Laura Graham Celebrant, the crowd was split and Frank and Nick walked away together, as husbands with the aisle awash with rainbow ribbons being waved around in celebration of the occasion.

    This was followed by a group photograph on the Yester Grange steps before Frank and Nick took part in a German wedding tradition where a log was sawed in half. The log on a sawhorse represented the trials and tribulations that inevitably occur over the years in any marriage. Frank and Nick cut through the log using a double-ended saw. This ritual symbolises their first achievement together as a married couple and reminds them that they can work together to overcome any obstacle! Check out the photos below and the video at the bottom of the post.

    What followed was a relaxed celebration with heartfelt moments, wonderful speeches, surprises, lots of fun and heaps of dancing. Some of the guests had travelled from the Northern Territory, Western Australia, Queensland, the Australian Capital Territory, Victoria, across New South Wales and as far away as Germany. Everybody celebrated this union wholeheartedly. All too soon, it was time to farewell Frank and Nick but not before they both tossed bouquets and left to commence their married life together.

    Frank and Nick, thank you for entrusting me with the responsibility of looking after the audio and music for your ceremony and giving me the privilege of being your Blue Mountains Wedding DJ. It was a pleasure and honour to play a part in this wonderful milestone moment in your lives. May love, laughter and music fill your lives forever!!!

    YouTube Video

    Photography and Video by DJ:Plus! Entertainment



    <p=”text-align: left;”>Songs selected by Frank & Nick:

    Processional: “My Love” by Cher (DJ:Plus! Edit)

    Register Signing: “Your Love Is King” by Sade, “Truly, Madly, Deeply” by Cascada (Slow Version)

    Recessional: “I’m Yours” by Jason Mraz

    Log Sawing Song: “Lean On Me” by 2-4 Family

    Wedding Party Entry: “I Feel Love” by Donna Summer

    First Dance: “Lab Mich Dein Pirat Sein / Let Me Be Your Pirate” by Nena (DJ:Plus! Custom Edit)

    Farewell Dance: “Last Dance” by Donna Summer (Masters At Work Remix)

    Final Farewell Song: “Love Shack” by B-52’s


  • Wedding Ceremony & Reception | 15 September 2018 | Belinda & Frank | Seclusions, Rydal, Blue Mountains

    Belinda & Frank are a truly gorgeous couple, inside and out! They have a beautiful nature about them with gentle and caring souls.They also have an adorable blended family which consists of Belinda’s three children, Frank’s two and another which is the result of the great love these two share for each other!

    With almost perfect weather, bar the exception of some wind, Belinda & Frank just took it in their stride, made some slight allowances and let the day unfold without any fuss or stress. Belinda and Frank selected the stunning Seclusions, which is located in Rydal on the western edge of the Blue Mountains and the gateway to the central west, as the location for their ceremony and reception.

    As the processional music started, the bridesmaids, Belinda’s daughters and Frank’s daughter) commenced their walk to the custom built ceremony area overlooking the majestic view of the lake and mountains. Belinda then commenced her walk escorted by her and Frank’s son. Waiting with celebrant, Louisa O’Brien of Lulu Celebrations, was Frank and his son. What followed was a very beautiful ceremony which commenced with Louisa recounting Belinda & Franks story, which I would like to share with you (the following is the extract from the ceremony as compiled and presented by Louisa of Lulu Celebrations):

    “Frank & Belinda met through work. Belinda says that she thinks Frank thought of himself as the big time boss and that he had no time for a pleb like her. She apparently set herself a challenge of trying to get him to notice her. She thought it wasn’t working, but little did she know that he was keeping an eye on her. He immediately liked the fact that she is small, petite, cute and very feminine with a beautiful smile and laugh.

    Neither of them realised that they were falling in love with each other. In their early days they would spend many hours on the phone just talking about everything and anything. Belinda describes it as a ‘slow burn’ and now can’t imagine living without him.

    Belinda loves that Frank is always trying, but let’s her be the boss. She says he has an amazing heart and that he always has the family in mind. He would do anything for the kids or herself. He provides support and love to all of the family.

    Frank says that Belinda helps him be a better father, son, friend and partner. She helps him find that balance between all those roles.

    Once they are married, Belinda cannot wait for their honeymoon, to spend some time on their own. Frank is definitely looking forward to calling Belinda his ‘wife’ after all their years together.”

    This was followed by the exchange of vows and rings, the signing of the register and Belinda &  Frank were pronounced husband and wife!!! Their first kiss as newlyweds and they ventured back down the aisle to loud cheers and applause. Congratulations all round before a photograph with all the invited guests and photographs around the picturesque venue with Rachel from Rachel H Photography and Sonia the videographer.

    Guests availed themselves to canapes, drinks, lawn games and enjoying the surrounds whilst the kids had a little play area set up for them inside the Barn area at Seclusion’s. As the sun started to set a little chill started to fill the air and guests were invited to take their seats inside the warm Pavilion. The Pavilion had been exquisitely decorated and styled by the lovely team from Wild Blue Studio with an amazing hanging arrangement, fresh flowers, gold cutlery – just so much detail had gone into the look of the room! Also taking pride and place in the Pavilion was the beautiful wedding cake by Josophans.

    With cheers and twirling napkins, we all welcomed the wedding party before Frank thanked everybody for being a part of their day and encouraged everyone to have a wonderful time. Guests were then served a delicious selection of dishes that was expertly prepared by Mountain Wide Event Catering before it was time for the speeches. First up was Belinda’s dad, Chris who spoke with great affection for both Belinda & Frank. Chris was followed by Belinda’s eldest daughter, Breanna ,who decided at the eleventh hour to make a speech and was supported by her sisters, step sister and step brothers. Breanna made a beautiful speech! Whilst trying hard to hold back her emotions, but it was of no use, those emotions came to the fore embracing Belinda, Frank, her support team and many in the room – it was so beautiful to see how much love there is in this blended family and it made my heart so very happy. Last but not least, Frank also spoke with much love for those celebrating with Belinda and himself, but also for those that are no longer with us. Beautiful and considered words all round!!

    It was then time for a little fun before a short dance set to help everybody digest a little. By the end of the dance set dessert was being served and the coffee truck from Coffeenova had arrived to prepare cappuccinos, lattes, short blacks and the like, to order for anybody who desired a coffee hit or warm beverage! More fun ensued with another party game and then more dancing until the conclusion of the evening.

    Guests were then invited to grab their favours and hot chips snack before heading off to the bus to take them back to their accommodation, but not before they were given glow sticks and forming a guard of honour for Belinda & Frank to leave through, united as one in love!

    Belinda & Frank’s wedding day was filled with the warmth and love of their family and friends and reflected who they are in everything they did – it was relaxed and fun! They light each other up and everyone around them. They are gentle, genuine, sweet, funny, totally in love and completely perfect for each other. Their reception was a celebration of their two families coming together and everyone was full of joy and excitement for them. I am very blessed to have amazing couples like them who not only put their trust in me to help create some wonderful memories, but trust me enough to be themselves with me….which puts the biggest smile on my heart! Thank you Belinda & Frank for trusting me and allowing me to be there to witness your magical and unforgettable day! May love, laughter and music fill your lives forever!!!

    Photography by DJ:Plus! Entertainment

    Songs selected by Bride & Groom;

    Bridesmaids Processional: “All I Want Is You” by Vitamin String Quartet

    Bride Processional: “All I Want Is You” by Vitamin String Quartet

    Register Signing: “Next To Me” by Imagine Dragons, “Until The End Of Time” by Justin Timberlake & Beyonce

    Recessional: “Tonight” by Secret Nation

    Wedding Party Entry: “Eye Of The Tiger” by Survivor, “Bootylicious” by Destiny’s Child Feat: Breanna, Bethany, Ivana & Brooke (Custom DJ:Plus! Edit)

    Bride & Groom Entry: “Adventure Of A Lifetime” by Coldplay

    Cake Cutting: “Sugar” by Robin Schulz Feat. Francesco Yates

    Farewell Dance: “Paradise” by George Erza

    Final Farewell Song: “Your Love Keeps Lifting Me Higher” by Jimmy Barnes


    Other Wedding Professionals

    Photographer: Rachel H Photography

    Floral Design & Styling: Wild Blue Studio

    Catering: Mountain Wide Event Catering

    Cake Design: Josophan’s

    Coffee Van: Coffeenova