Real Wedding – Tamika & Cameron, Gippsland VIC
Tamika and Cameron knew from the get go that their families stunning property in Gippsland was the only place they would get married.
The couple turned their wedding day into a long and relaxing weekend affair for their guests, complete with bell tents and brunching.
This love-filled and fuss free, but totally gorgeous celebration was captured by talented shutterbug, Michael Renga.
In Tamika’s words…
The meeting.
We met while working together around eight years ago. We were very close friends for over a year before we got together. It took a lot of courage for us to take things to the ‘next level’ but we have never looked back.
The one.
Early on in our friendship when we could laugh and love at ease.
The proposal.
Cameron invited me on a last minute trip to Brisbane, where he was working. I was reluctant and looking forward to a quiet weekend at home. He surprised me with a lovely dinner at a waterfront restaurant. We had a gorgeous walk along the pier after dinner. At around 11pm and to my annoyance, I couldn’t understand why he wanted to walk back the other way when we got to the end. It all made sense when he dropped to one knee and presented me with an engagement ring. It was nice to be such a surprise after so long together. He told me if I said no he would push me in the water!
The planning.
We didn’t look at venues at all. We both only ever imagined getting married on the family property and were so thrilled when Cam’s parents were as excited as we were to have it there. Although Cam’s dad was a bit apprehensive with all the jobs he was bound to be given!
Style inspiration.
We really wanted our guests to be comfortable and experience the farm and area of Gippsland that we love so much. Having the ceremony and reception in the same location meant people could really relax into the day. We also had glamping tents and around 60 guests camped over 3 days, meaning they could use the farm as a base for exploring the local area. We just wanted to host all of our friends in a way that we knew they would enjoy.
The dress.
I was finding the thought of wearing a traditional wedding dress daunting. I tried one dress on in a store and knew that process wasn’t for me. I was doing my usual Instagram flick when I saw a photo of a women on the red carpet wearing a simple white dress with feathers. From that moment I knew that I wanted something modern with feathers. After finding Alvin from Ae’lkemi on Instagram who had done dresses with feather work I contacted him. We skyped almost immediately and I knew it was a match made in heaven. He was edgy and bold and I had full confidence in him. My 91 year old grandmother who was a dressmaker, did my measurements and I sent them through to Alvin. I met with Alvin twice to discuss the design and fabrics. The whole process was amazing and Alvin is one amazing, gentle, kind and talented human!
Favourite moment/s.
Cameron and I decided that we would meet privately before the ceremony and walk down the aisle together. It was a truly amazing experience for both of us. The whole day can be overwhelming and is was really important to us to have that really special time together. I can’t even describe how magical and emotional is was. It would have been really difficult to embrace that fully in front of our guests. Also, when I met my grandmother of 90 years old just before the ceremony is a memory I will hold so close to heart forever. Our photographer, Michael, captured that moment wonderfully well.
Traditions.
The meal felt like a family tradition. We wanted it to feel like all of our guests were sitting down to a family roast dinner on a larger scale. The meat was also supplied off the farm which was wonderful.
The meaning of marriage.
A lifetime of building patience, tolerance, forgiveness and love.
Wedding soundtrack.
Fidel and Sarah learnt a few songs we specifically requested and they did an amazing job.
Aisle: Winding Wheel by Ryan Adams.
Signing: Guilty from the movie, Amelie and All I want is you from the movie Juno.
First dance: Rise by Eddie Vedder
Farewell song: Home by Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros.
Funny stories/near disasters.
We had to dig a 6m deep my 10m long trench to try and find the electricity line the morning the marquee arrived. The line was finally found 15 minutes before they arrived, but not before blowing up the power board and was nowhere near the marquee would be. The mobile bathroom company also cancelled the day before the wedding. The two amazing cakes also got trashed in transport.
Planning suprises.
Not really. We were ready for anything and just loved the whole ‘ride’.
Words of wisdom.
Do what makes you feel comfortable. If it feels right do it, even if it goes against tradition or what other people perceive as being the done thing. At the end of the day it’s about you and your partner saying those important life-changing vows to each other.
Dreaming of the great outdoors? Check out Allira and Andrew’s private property nuptials here.
TAMIKA AND CAMERON’S TRIBE
Ceremony location: Private property in Gippsland
Celebrant: Our friend, Julian Ginn.
Photography: Michael Renga
Videography: N/A
Styling: Events by Kate
Florist: Native flowers used from the farms garden and the Monstera chandelier was creates by Events by Kate
Hair: Melissa Duran
Markeup: Nikizsha Lyons
The Dress: Custom gown by Ae’lkemi
Jewellery/Accessories: Earrings by Aristides, Feature ring by Samantha Wills
Shoes: Jimmy Choo from David Jones
Rings: Wedding bands by Leskes Jewellers
Grooms suit: Pitstop Menswear, Warrnambool
Shirt: Ted Baker
Grooms Shoes: RM Williams
Bow ties / ties: Pitstop Menswear, Warrnambool
Catering: Brent Sinclair Catering
Favors: Candlea by Grace and James
Cake / Cake topper: Sweet Boutique – The two cakes got trashed in transport but lucky we had donuts, cupcakes and cookies made by her too!
Stationary: Timber place cards, table numbers, menus and welcome sign by Sketch and Etch Creative. I created a wedding website in lieu of an invitation. (Password to view: 110317).
Entertainment: Fidel and Sarah. They were spectacular and had the whole crowd on their feet all night. Laughing, singing, dancing and even ham boning (people ended up with bruises, they were that enthusiastic!)
Furniture hire: Dann Event Hire
Marquee table and chairs: Katalane
Guest accommodation: Happy Glamper
Other: Champagne Popsicles by Pops Australia, Mobile coffee cart Coffee Caboose, Giant Connect Four made by our friends Brett and Mia Easton and outdoor games by Planet Finska
