Real Wedding – Tempany & Thomas, Toolangi Heights VIC
For high school sweethearts Tom and Tempany, a relaxed outdoor wedding with an accomodation or camping element was top of their wish list. Add in stellar photographer Love Bomb Photos leading a helm of ultra-talented vendors against the stunning bushland backdrop of Toolangi Heights, and you have a dream day that unfolds with style and effortlessly natural feelings.
For both Tom and Tempany, seeing each other at the top of their greenery lined aisle was a peak moment. Tom’s expression as he first sets eyes on his breathtaking bride is a total moment, as is their gorgeously genuine reactions to their light-hearted but loved-up ceremony by Alyce Bailey.
Style-wise, the couple kept it sleek and simple with a monotone palette elevated with electric, cornflower and powder blue accents, perfectly juxtaposed against the lush greenery and moodily dramatic silhouettes of the striking bushland surround.
Every frame of this dream day gives us a sweet endorphin hit, and we suspect it may do the same for you. Scroll on to enjoy it all.
The meeting.
We first met back in year seven at high school. We didn’t start dating until year 11.
The one.
Thomas: I knew when our relationship grew, and she became my best friend and confidant. When we couldn’t imagine our lives without each other.
The proposal.
The question was popped at one of our favourite places, Falls Creek. We went for an afternoon walk to watch the sunset and then I turned around and Thomas was down on one knee and asked me to marry him.
Planning process.
We were both on the same page in terms of what we wanted for the day. The whole process of planning and the lead-up to the big day wasn’t that stressful at all because we’re both very organised people. At the start we made sure to lock in the more important things for the day: photographer, celebrant and food. We also wanted a venue where our really close friends and family could stay/camp the night with us.
Style inspiration.
Outdoors, budget-friendly, intimate, relaxed.
The ceremony.
Our ceremony was held down in the valley at Toolangi Heights. It was the most perfect weather, and we were surrounded by our closest friends and family. We did personalised vows, which made the ceremony that extra bit personal. We also included our family in various parts of the ceremony, which was lovely.
The outfits.
Thomas always wanted a custom suit for the special day – a black tuxedo with a black bowtie, with fluro internal lining with our initials and wedding date stitched on the inside.
Tempany picked a dress that made her feel most comfortable and like herself. Tempany planned to change into a second dress later into the night but was so comfortable she stayed partying in it until the early morning.
Favourite moment.
Both our favourite moments of the day was seeing each other at the other end of the aisle. At this point we had already spent two days apart; two days too many. Listening to each other’s vows and also our favourite people’s speeches were also a highlight.
Meaning of marriage.
Marriage to us means two becoming one.
Wedding soundtrack.
Aisle: Simply The Best by Billianne
Recessional: Just The Way You Are by Milky
Signing: Sweet Disposition by Temper Trap and Love You For A Long Time by Maggie Rogers
Reception entry: Love At First Sight by Kylie Minogue
First dance: Mess Is Mine by Vance Joy
Funny stories (or near disasters).
A near disaster was that we were one day off from a total fire ban. The wedding would have been cancelled due to venue restrictions. Actually, one funny moment was when we walked back into the reception, ready to cut the cake, and there wasn’t a knife. Made for some pretty funny photos.
Planning surprises.
Not really, just remembering smaller details that could affect the guests. For example, getting from the ceremony location back to the reception location on the property.
Words of wisdom.
Organisation is key. Remember you are planning the day for you and your partner. Enjoy every minute of the whole process, including the planning, because the day is over in a blink of an eye.
Considering an outdoor wedding? Here are some of our top tips to consider when planning a marquee-style soiree.
TEMPANY & THOMAS’ VENDORS
Ceremony & reception venue: Toolangi Heights – A beautiful venue. We couldn’t have asked for a more perfect place for our wedding. It ticked every single box we were looking for. The owners are absolutely lovely and went above and beyond.
Celebrant: Your Celebrant Alyce Bailey. We honestly couldn’t have asked for a better person to be our celebrant than Alyce. Alyce really understood the vibe we were going for the day – relaxed and fun filled. Alyce made us feel so comfortable and relaxed during the whole process but especially on the day. Friends and family also commented on how lovely Alyce was and how great of a job she did telling our story.
Photography: Love Bomb Photos. Hailey was incredible. So easy to deal with and did the most amazing job on the day organising people in and out of photos. On more candid photos you never noticed her but she always caught the moment. She was always watching around and ready for a snap! Multiple friends and family members commented on her skill and how great she was.
Florist: Pretty Wild Flowers. Very beautiful flowers. Amazing to deal with over email and captured what we wanted perfectly.
Hair: By Teegan
Make-up: Pim Moulton
The dress & veil: Luv Bridal
Dress alteration: Meropi Couture. AMAZING. I loved every experience with Meropi. Meropi understood what needed to be altered and did such a fantastic job.
Veil / headwear: Luv Bridal
Shoes: Bared Footwear
Rings: Abrecht Bird Jewellers
Bridesmaid’s dresses: Shona Joy
Suits & bow ties / ties: Briggins Clothiers. Such a fun and personalised experience for Thomas and his groomsmen.
Catering: Dos Amigos.
Cake: Cake Box Cafe. Absolutely amazing. One of the best cakes we have ever eaten. Literally ever single guest commented on how good it was. Highly recommend.
Cake topper: Etsy
Stationery / Signage: Etsy – printed ourselves.
Entertainment: Primary DJ.
Hire: Coolroom.
