Real Wedding – Courtney & Wyatt, Nagambie VIC
Set against the sweeping riverside views of Mitchelton Wines, Courtney and Wyatt’s wedding day was the embodiment of effortless elegance.
The stillness of the sophisticated country backdrop gave rise to a sentimental feeling that echoed authenticity throughout the day.
With a vision rooted in simplicity and timeless style, the couple leaned into soft draping, linen textures and crisp white florals contrasted against striking black bows, suits and bridesmaid dresses.
The result? A celebration – and stunning gallery by the brilliant folk at Laeste Films – that’s clean, modern and romantic. Elevated without ever feeling overdone.
Scroll on to journey through the love story that led to ‘I do’ – from Schoolies to cosmic timing and a rom-com worthy proposal – and benefit from the wisdom of their (occasionally stressful) planning experience.
The meeting.
Wyatt and I first properly met at Schoolies 2015 on the Gold Coast. I remember thinking he was very cute – even though I was on and off with my ex at the time. Nothing could happen, but that didn’t stop Wyatt from trying to walk me home or be around me whenever he could. Months later, when I messaged him for chicken parma recommendations for me and my boyfriend, he thought it was finally his moment… until he realised I just wanted food advice.
Fast forward and after that relationship ended, we eventually reconnected on social media. He picked me up from a friend’s 21st where I made him play Who Let the Dogs Out by Baha Men while I hung out the window singing. The next morning, he cooked me a gourmet breakfast while I was in his bathroom feeling less than well and wanting to go home. A few weeks later we had our first official date at Hogs Breath, and I still remember him rocking up in camo pants, red Air Max sneakers and a gold chain – I truly wondered what I had gotten myself into.
We fell for each other quickly, maybe too quickly, and I panicked. I wanted to travel and focus on myself, which led me to end things, leaving Wyatt heartbroken. I went travelling through Thailand, Southeast Asia and Europe for months, but no matter where I was, I always stayed in contact with him. I’d call him drunk from Croatia at 2am, laughing like nothing had changed. Looking back, I think there was always a reason I couldn’t quite let him go.
‘The one’.
The defining moment for me was the night Wyatt took me to the Melbourne Show. He was dropping me home as “friends” and I remember looking at him and saying I wanted to kiss him. The smile on his face was instant, and he kissed me before I could blink. From that moment, I knew I was about to fall in love with him.
I also think the timing made it even more meaningful. A year earlier I wasn’t ready but when we reconnected, I was going through a really hard time losing my Grandma. Wyatt walked into my life right when I needed him most, and he helped mend a part of me I didn’t think could be fixed.
The proposal.
Wyatt proposed on 23.12.23 in New York City, right before a helicopter ride over the city. I had absolutely no idea. He hadn’t pre-booked anything, and he’d been so calm the entire trip that I didn’t suspect a thing. It wasn’t until he suddenly started sweating that I thought he was maybe nervous about flying. The whole trip felt like a movie; we were laughing nonstop and completely in our own little world. It ended up being the most magical and unforgettable moment of our lives.
Planning process.
Once we locked in a venue, the planning process was exciting but definitely a quick turnaround, which made it a bit stressful at times. I was determined to get everything don,e and while it was a lot to take on, it all came together beautifully. If I could change one thing, I would have delegated more to my bridesmaids and family instead of taking everything on myself. We also had a budget to work within so planning well was important, but in the end the whole experience was so special and completely worth it.
Style inspiration.
The inspiration was simple, elegant and timeless. I loved the idea of soft draping and linen textures, white florals, and pops of black through the bridesmaids’ dresses and ribbons. I wanted everything to feel clean, stylish and romantic without being overdone. It was the perfect mix of modern simplicity and warmth.
Real weddings were the most helpful kind of inspiration because they showed what things actually look like on the day. Styled shoots were beautiful but real weddings helped me visualise how everything flows. Supplier features were also helpful when making decisions on vendors.
The ceremony.
Our ceremony on the deck overlooking the river felt incredibly personal and “us.” Standing there surrounded by our favourite people, with the water behind us, in most beautiful setting, made the moment feel so peaceful and genuine. It was emotional, intimate and one of my favourite parts of the day.
The outfits.
I knew the style I wanted and when I tried on my dress it just felt right – elegant, flattering and exactly what I pictured myself wearing down the aisle. For Wyatt, we kept it clean and classic – something simple and timeless that suited him perfectly.
Favourite moment.
Sunset photos, without a doubt. It was honestly heaven – that perfect level of tipsy, zero stress, pure happiness. It felt like it was just us in our own little bubble, laughing, being silly and soaking it all in as husband and wife. I also loved the after-party in the cellar and dancing with all my friends, plus the calm, fun morning getting ready with my girls.
Meaning of marriage.
Marriage is choosing your best friend every day. It means growing together, supporting each other and building a life full of love, laughter and shared dreams. It’s having someone who sees every part of you and chooses you wholeheartedly.
Wedding soundtrack.
Aisle song: Feels Like Home by Linda Ronstadt
Reception entry: Unwritten Remix by Natasha Bedingfield
First dance: Until I Found You by Stephen Sanchez
Near disasters.
My bridesmaid managed to sweat her fake tan onto her getting-ready outfit, which we still laugh about. Other than that, everything went smoothly with just the normal chaotic little moments that turn into funny memories.
Planning surprises.
How many tiny decisions there are! You think you’re done and then you’re choosing linen textures, candle shapes and fonts. I was also surprised by how emotional it felt seeing everything come together on the day.
Words of wisdom.
Choose a venue that instantly feels right, just like Mitchelton did for us. Keep things true to your style, don’t overcomplicate it, and delegate where you can. Focus on the feeling of the day because that’s what you remember most. And if your budget allows it, use it, because it really can take pressure off the planning.
COURTNEY & WYATT’S SUPPLIERS:
Ceremony & reception venue: Mitchelton Winery
Celebrant: Kirby Steele
Photography: Laeste Films
Videography: Mim.media
Styling, stationery & signage: Style By A.M
Florist: Lowey Flowers
Hair: Harlen Hair
Make-up: Laura Difrancesco
The dresses: Alex Perry from Bluebell Bridal
Shoes: Prada
Rings: Faith Jewels
Bridesmaid’s dresses: Billy J
Suits: Formal Red
Cake: Allens Bakery & Cakes
Honeymoon: Fiji
