A cocktail farm wedding with a whole lot of heart
There’s something pretty special about a wedding that feels like it belongs to everyone. Set on the family property in rural Victoria, Jesse and Maggie’s day was brought to life by the people around them – family, friends and local community pitching in, lending a hand and making the celebration feel every bit as personal as it was.
That sense of togetherness carried through the day, from the ceremony framed by round hay bales and colourful blooms to a beautiful tribute to loved ones who couldn’t be there. Nothing felt overly formal or fussy; it was warm, heartfelt and full of the people who mattered most.
And then, as the afternoon light softened across the paddocks, Jesse and Maggie slipped away for golden hour portraits with Ivory Tribe favourite White Shutter Photography, capturing the quiet moments amongst all the celebration.
By nightfall, it was back to the party – and the dancefloor went all night long!
It was the kind of wedding that reminds you why gathering your favourite people together feels so damn good: a little bit of country, a lot of heart, and a whole community behind it.
The meeting.
We met on a dance floor at a university ball in September 2018, just before the university break in October. What started as a chance meeting quickly turned into something much more.
The one.
In November 2018, Maggie had a two-week Occupational Therapy placement in Benalla, which is only 30 minutes from Jesse’s hometown. She cancelled her pre-arranged accommodation and stayed with Jesse and his family for the entire placement. Those two weeks cemented what we already knew, and the rest is history.
The proposal.
Jesse proposed on his birthday in December 2024. Unknown to Maggie, he had secretly organised for both of their families to gather at their home in Geelong to celebrate. Earlier that day, Jesse took Maggie and their golden retriever, Sadie, for a walk along the beach in Torquay. Attached to Sadie’s tag were the words, “Will you marry me?” Maggie threw a ball for Sadie, she came running back, and Jesse got down on one knee. After the proposal, they drove back to Geelong, where their families and closest friends were waiting to celebrate. It turned into one unforgettable night.
Planning process.
From our engagement in December 2024, we had a 13-month turnaround. Initially, we researched venues but quickly realised that accommodating our guest numbers would be difficult. We were incredibly fortunate to have access to Maggie’s family property, which we locked in as our venue in January. Because we were getting married over the January long weekend in 2026, securing the marquee early was essential, so that was organised in February. We also found some templates and spreadsheets on Etsy that became our go-to throughout the process, helping us stay organised and ensuring we didn’t miss a thing.
Style inspiration.
We always envisioned a relaxed fun rustic farm wedding. We wanted a cocktail-style celebration that wasn’t overly formal. Once guests arrived, we wanted them to simply enjoy themselves while canapés, cocktails and drinks flowed throughout the evening.
The ceremony.
Our ceremony was incredibly special because it took place on Maggie’s family farm. The location held so much meaning for us and made the day feel deeply personal.
The ceremony was made even more significant by the year leading up to it. Jesse lost his dad in May 2025, and Maggie also lost grandparents. Having our family and friends gathered on the farm meant more than we can put into words.
Both our families are also 6 hours away from each other, so to have so many people travel to make the day was so special.
The outfits.
Jesse has never been a fan of ties or anything overly formal, so he wanted a relaxed look that still suited the occasion. He chose a sand-coloured jacket, black chinos and RM Williams boots. The team at Eddy Elias made the process incredibly easy; we were in and out within 20 minutes.
Maggie wanted something simple and timeless. In April 2025, she travelled to Melbourne with her three sisters, her mum and her second mum, and found her dress that very day.
Favourite moment.
Without a doubt, the sunset photos and the dance floor. The dance floor kicked off early and felt packed all night. We barely left it.
Meaning of marriage.
Spending the rest of your life with your best friend.
Wedding soundtrack.
Chasing Cars – Snow Patrol (Bridesmaid Entering)
A Thousand Years – Christiana Perri (Bride Entering)
June and July – Pete McCredie (Walking Out)
Jessie’s Girl – Rick Springfield (Reception Entry)
Missing Piece – Vance Joy (First Dance)
Funny stories (or near disasters).
We have two.
The first happened on the morning of the wedding. Our MC was staying in Daylesford, but his wife became seriously unwell and, being heavily pregnant, they had to pull out at the last minute. Jesse’s sister, a schoolteacher, stepped in as MC and absolutely nailed it.
The second involved the rings. We got ready at separate farmhouses, and somehow the rings were left behind at the bridesmaids’ house. Luckily, Jesse wore his father’s wedding ring, which his Mum had with her, and Maggie wore her Mum’s ring during the ceremony. We swapped back to our actual rings shortly afterwards, but it ended up being a special moment.
Planning surprises.
Because we held our wedding at The Sisters on a family farm, we knew there would be a lot of work involved. What surprised us was the sheer amount of support from the local community. People were mowing, moving equipment, driving tractors the day before, and even delivering air conditioning units for the recovery day afterwards. It was an enormous effort, and we’re incredibly grateful. Both of our families were also instrumental in bringing the day to life. Countless hours were spent setting up, moving equipment, decorating, coordinating logistics and helping behind the scenes. It truly was a family effort, and we are so grateful for the love, support and hard work that went into making our wedding day so special.
Words of wisdom.
Surround yourself with great vendors and do your research. We were lucky to have amazing people in every role, which made the day feel effortless. Take the time to meet your vendors beforehand and clearly communicate your expectations. We also highly recommend having a few trusted “floaters” on the day. It was a very hot day, and having people available to hand out water during the ceremony, bring out food and help wherever needed made a huge difference.
Final words.
The day absolutely flies by. Soak it all in, be present, and enjoy every single moment.
Maggie and Jesse’s Vendors
Ceremony and reception location: The Sisters, Victoria – Private family property
Photography: White Shutter Photography – Anne Scott
Videography: Bottlebrush Films – Andrew Fenaughty. Our photographer Anne, and videographer Andrew, worked so well together that we hardly noticed they were there. They were professional, easy-going and made us feel comfortable from start to finish. They captured every important moment without ever feeling in the way, which allowed us to relax and enjoy the day.
Styling: Sharon Kenna (family friend)
Florist: The Velvet Bloom – Julie
Hair: Tenae Mounsey Hair
Make-up: BEAUteFIED by Telina
The dress: Made with Love – Sawyer Dress.
Veil: Made with Love – Pear Veil
Shoes: Bared – Calandra White Leather Heels
Rings: Cullen Jewellery
Bridesmaid’s dresses: Effie Kats Verona Gown – Black
Suits: Eddy Elias, Geelong
Catering: 3M Catering – Libby Vandonk, The Paella Pan
Stationery / Signage: Signs & Designs – Jordy Billington
Entertainment: Jase and Kristy Trotman Music & DJ Track Larkin
Décor: Sharon Kenna helped bring our vision to life, with many of the styling and decorative elements sourced from around the family farm to create the rustic atmosphere we were hoping for.
Hire: Rustic Wedding and Party Hire – Mailors Flat. Grand Events – Warrnambool.
Honeymoon: We’re currently travelling Europe for five months – backpacking around.
