GREATER PORT MACQUARIE
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Lisa and Matt have not only recently celebrated their own wedding day, but they've also launched a new business, Ensemble, which can help you organise your own wedding or special event!
irstly, congratulations on your very recent wedding. Take us back to where it all began ... How did you two meet? Thank you so much! Matt and I met in Paddington, Sydney, early 2014. Our first date felt so natural. When I met him, it became apparent (quite quickly) that he wasn’t like anyone else I had ever met. There was an ease to being in his company, yet he made me feel nervous and excited also. Our dinner date lasted almost four hours. Share a snippet about your engagement. To be honest, initially Matt and I were never drawn towards having a big engagement or wedding. We love each other, we knew how we felt - and in a sense were quite private about our love. It’s not something either one of us felt necessary to show to others. After five years of being together, we were planning to elope in Northern Queensland; however, what stopped us was the fact that all of our friends and family were scattered across the globe (Matt’s family all from Western Australia) so this was perhaps the greatest opportunity to bring all of these people together. Getting married was a decision we made together, and we also chose my engagement ring together. After we had a fitting for the ring, Matt told me I wasn’t to know anymore, and so after a few months had passed, one morning I woke up to 100+ roses in our bedroom, and Matt beside me with the ring. You planned your wedding yourself. Can you talk us through your theming and style? Our wedding was held at Hillard House on Rawdon Island, which is also the property I grew up on. Our vision was Hamptons inspired, whilst celebrating the Australian backdrop. Things were kept minimalistic, to allow for the smaller details to be noted. White roses were found throughout, which complemented the native greens. It was important to us that we worked with local businesses to create an experience that showcased the area for our guests. Catering was done by Seed Catering, and our
cake was created from local produce by Antidote our vision for the first few months and once we Kitchen in Wauchope. The bar was serviced by felt locked in about what we wanted, we then the guys at Moorebeer, photography by Keegan welcomed the help from our friends and family Cronin, Videography by Hugo Bittar, and the day (and they helped so much - trust me, if you think was coordinated by Christie Toone. My makeup you are grateful for your friends now - plan a was done by Anna Carey, at The Wellness wedding and see how amazing they are! We Collective and hair by Hannah Wilken. couldn’t have done it without them). Our gifts to our guests were honey pots Once you know your vision - get organised! produced by my mother (an avid bee lover) Time sheets, run sheets, to-do lists. Be so bottled on our family property. organised prior to the wedding, that it then What was the highlight of the event? allows you to just be the bride or groom on the There are two highlights, hmm ... actually three day. Also - breathe. Don’t forget about what the … We were bursting with love and gratitude for day truly represents. our beautiful friends and family that travelled Amidst planning your wedding, you so far to spend the evening with us. The energy also launched your new business from that filled the space was beyond anything I can your desire to find specific and bespoke put into words. So much equipment and services love, and connection - we within our local area. loved watching people How has this venture really love talking with one developed? another. The energy felt so Our backgrounds are OUR DANCE FLOOR WAS generous and warm - that both in entertainment - I NOT UNDER COVER, AND was highlight number have always worked in LITERALLY MINUTES AFTER one. relation to events, and WE FINISHED OUR FIRST Our dance floor was not as well as being an actor, DANCE IT STARTED TO RAIN under cover, and literally Matt is also a carpenter. (AND WE HAD NOT SEEN RAIN minutes after we finished Prior to relocating to Port FOR MONTHS). EVERYONE our first dance it started to Macquarie in March 2019, WAS SO HAPPY AND OUT rain (and we had not seen we lived in Melbourne. DANCING IN THE RAIN ... rain for months). Everyone When we started creating was so happy and out our wedding, it was dancing in the rain - that initially set to be in the was also a highlight. Yarra Valley. On a personal note, my best friend of 26 years, We made the decision to move north shortly George, became a celebrant to marry Matt and I. after, so now this looked like creating our To walk down the aisle and see not only Matt, wedding on my family property, from scratch. but George standing there beside him, was When it came to our wedding, we both something I will never forget. wanted to create a premium experience - and we What advice would you give to anyone found it tricky to source a lot of things in the area embarking on wedding planning? without reaching out to Newcastle and beyond. I would say - initially, hold space for creating Bathroom hire was top of our list, and the vision of your wedding between just you and unfortunately nothing was available for our your partner. As soon as you share it, guests other than a port-a-loo. Whilst extremely people will contribute - so it is important to know neat and clean - when creating a Black Tie event, exactly how you feel prior to others assisting you. “Port-a-loo” doesn’t scream premium. So in Matt and I only spoke with each other about creating our business - premium bathroom hire
is at the top of our list, along with one of a kind bars and arbours (designed and built by Matt) tables, chairs, and place settings to suit every style and budget. We are now aligning with creatives in the area that include styling, graphics, floristry and design. Our business is called Ensemble and my position is Event Planner, which I absolutely love - as I have a passion to connect with people and produce exactly what they vision to suit their specific budget. Ensemble is your destination for literally everything weddings and events. As well as locals enjoying the area, the Mid North Coast is a beautiful place for people travelling from Sydney and beyond for a destination wedding. At Ensemble, our vision is to offer a premium event experience short of nothing. Your husband has been busy building one of a kind pieces for the new business. What bespoke structures do you plan on offering? As mentioned, one of the most important things when creating a wedding is having a vision and sticking to it. Pinterest, Instagram and Google fill your imagination with beautiful ideas, but then comes the hunt for finding these things in your area - or maybe you want a blend of this and a touch of that. These are the circumstances where Matt will help see through your vision. Whether it is for your wedding, event or business - he loves hearing someone’s vision and bringing it to life. In Melbourne, Matt was a set and installation builder for high profile clients such as Dior, The Australian Ballet, and The National Art Gallery of Victoria. What other services do you offer special occasions? Ensemble is here to get you outside of the box. We are here to offer you complete packages from start to finish. We would love to be a part of your next event; please get in touch to learn how we work together. Where can we find out more? www.instagram.com/ensemblensw Website coming soon. Thanks Lisa. Greater Port Macquarie focus 43
MID NORTH COAST
Wedding Directory Emily and Alison
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lease introduce behind this region. There are tonnes of yourselves. well presented, informative directory/ Hi! We are the wedding inspiration web presences sisters behind the MNC out there. But not a single one actually Wedding’s website/social brought vendors specific to the Mid platforms. North Coast to the couple's searching. Tell us about your background in the We know there are a lot of ridiculously wedding industry. talented and creative people working in Emily is the marriage celebrant behind the wedding industry here. Love Kiss Confetti and Alison is a legal Not only that, but we find the vendors secretary (so she’s not specifically deep love to work together - when there in the wedding industy like Emily) but is a community driving the industry she sure is great at forward, great research and is a things happen. total professional It is actually when it comes really inspiring to to wording, observe how this OVER 60 VENDORS HAVE presentation and industry operates. ALREADY JOINED THE organisation - all We constantly DIRECTORY, WITH NUMBERS important when see them praising GROWING WEEKLY - WE it comes to each other on WERE OVERWHELMED bringing other social media; WITH THE SUPPORT LOCAL businesses to the after all, there’s BUSINESSES THREW BEHIND eyes of potential only so many THE BUSINESS BEFORE WE couples needing weddings that HAD EVEN LAUNCHED. wedding vendors. vendors can take It’s all about first on, so there’s a lot impressions. of referring each You have recently launched a new other and backing each other’s skills online Wedding Directory for brides and businesses. We love the idea and grooms of the Mid North Coast. that it should be “community over Tell us a little about this venture. competition” and encourage this within When Em became a marriage the community. celebrant, she started looking into how We’re having our first brunch with to market herself and her business. She vendors in Coffs Harbour in February. noticed a large gap in the wedding Getting together in person is important industry on the Mid North Coast. to us; this will help the local industry Couples planning weddings needed even more. We are in prime position, to search multiple platforms to locate mid way between two of Australia’s vendors. In general, there wasn’t a capital cities, and we may be biased but place for them to go that was 100% it is the best place to get married.
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How far and wide does the directory cover? We cover from Woolgoolga to Seal Rocks and inland as far as Gloucester, Comboyne and Dorrigo. What range of current vendors are accessible on the website? We really do have everything covered - the ultimate goal is to be the one and only place couples have to go to plan their wedding, from pre and post wedding accommodation to bar services, catering, celebrants, cake designers, florists, hire, photographers, stylists, venues, videographers and everything in between. For anyone who would like to be involved, how much does it cost to become a vendor, and where can they grab more information? We’re still in the developing stage (after all, it’s only been five months), but every great thing has to start somewhere. Over 60 vendors have already joined the directory, with numbers growing weekly - we were overwhelmed with the support local businesses threw behind the business before we had even launched. It just proved that the area was craving something like this. A 12 month listing on the website is only $19.99; this includes a profile with three images, an unlimited space to describe yourself and your business, links to your social media/websites and multiple prompts for couples to contact you directly from the website. We have all information in an easily found location on our website: mncweddings.com.au Thanks ladies.
Ceremonies by Julie I know how important it is to choose a celebrant that can envisage your special day with perfection. I am very privileged to be able to assist and arrange with you your memorable day. As a Port Macquarie Marriage Celebrant I am here to help you create a celebration that will mark a milestone in your life to share with loved ones. Wedding ceremonies are romantic experiences to affirm a deep bond between a man and a woman. This traditional ceremony unites a couple and marks a life long commitment through customs and rituals. This is why I am very pleased to offer a range of services, that I will happily guide you through in preparation to create your perfect occasion. Whether your memorable moment is simple or elaborate, these celebrations are only limited by your imagination. I pride myself on obtaining new up-to-date information and materials in the industry, that enables me to provide the best services possible to my clients, and have a large range of materials available for your consideration. These include poems, music, rituals and/or readings, and am happy to guide you through each step of the way. I’d love to personalise your wedding ceremony, so get in touch and we can have a chat!
Little Fish Little Fish Café is the ideal location for the wedding day of your dreams ... Experience the magic of a wedding reception at the Innes Lake Vineyards Port Macquarie. The secret is wonderful cuisine, fine wines and stunning views. Enjoy the casual sophistication of holding your ceremony in our vine covered gazebo, then pre-dinner drinks and canapés under the beautiful Jacaranda and Poinciana trees, providing you with a stunning setting. Little Fish Café is one of Port Macquarie's premier function venues. We host many types of functions, such as birthdays, anniversaries, Christmas parties, engagements, corporate events and much more. Overlooking the vineyard on the verandah or sitting on the grass in alfresco dining, the beautiful surroundings of the Innes Lake Vineyard is an amazing setting for anything from a wedding, to lunch with your friends. WINNER OF BEST WEDDING VENUE - RESTAURANT, 2019 BRIDES CHOICE AWARDS, MID NORTH COAST.
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CUSTOM COOKIES AS FAVOURS
With two generations of cooks before her, baking is in the blood. It was inevitable that Simone would one day throw on an apron, pick up the wooden spoon, and get messy in the kitchen. With a pinch of passion and a cup of creativity, Simone has cooked up a bespoke business that proves cake is no longer just dessert. SHOW STOPPER
S I M O N E
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B A R K E R
FRENCH PROVINCIAL WEDDING CAKE
i Simone. Please introduce I spend a lot of time looking at new trends and yourself, your business and your techniques on Instagram from amazing cake artists connection to Port Macquarie. across the world - you would be blown away if you saw Hi there! I’m Simone Barker, and I what was out there! am the owner and cake artist behind I won’t replicate another design, and I like to have Barker Bakes, specialising mainly in some creative freedom in what I create; it’s how I do my bespoke cakes and cookies. I was born and raised locally best work! I think especially for weddings these days, and consider myself super lucky to have grown up in cake is no longer "just dessert". It is becoming a feature such a beautiful place. piece. I believe each cake should tell a story that is Your cakes are visually outstanding and taste specific and tailored to the event. amazing to boot! How long have you been a home When a customer first gets in contact with me, I ask baking enthusiast? them a million questions about Thank you! I have been their event, so I can understand interested in cooking for as long what kind of story I am portraying as I can remember. My mum - like the colour scheme, textures, I AM HOPING TO KEEP and my nanna are pretty great type of event and location. With all BRINGING SO MANY DESIGNS in the kitchen. Nanna was a of these answers, I am able to pull TO LIFE THAT SHOWCASE cake decorator many years ago, some concepts together based on THE EXCITING MODERN so I think it came genetically! my research, and I’ll usually send TURN CAKES AND SWEETS I have always been somewhat the customer drawings and a few ARE TAKING, CONTINUING creative as well, so I think it photos. With a fair few emails TO BREAK DOWN was inevitable that the baking backwards and forwards, we are MISCONCEPTIONS THAT and creativity met. Long story able to come up with something CAKE IS ‘JUST DESSERT’. short, Barker Bakes eventuated beautiful that is truly a custom after making a pretty cool ninja piece of art. The baking (from turtle cake for my stepson’s scratch) and execution of the cake seventh birthday about three is then a whole other part, with a years ago. My style and technique has certainly evolved custom cake usually taking anywhere from eight - 20 dramatically since then, but one thing remains - I have hours from concept to delivery. so much passion for what I do. What events do you cater for, and how long before What a great way to let your creative side come an event should people get in contact with you? out. From concept to design, tell us what's This year I am stepping towards mainly weddings, involved. with 29 weddings already booked in for 2020. In saying
Barker that, I still love a milestone birthday or event and will still be doing our signature sugar cookie gift boxes for those special days of the year like Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, etc. If you are looking to get custom cakes or desserts for your special occasion, I recommend getting in touch six to 12 months in advance, especially for weddings, as I am a one person show (besides hubby who plays delivery man), only taking a few orders per week. From cake to macarons, cookies and donuts, your business has covered all things sweet. What has been your biggest showstopper so far? Personally, our own wedding cake in 2018 will always be my favourite (yes, I made it!), but I think the biggest show stopper is a wedding cake I did in April last year. I had an amazing bride and groom who had a three tier cake which was modern yet timeless, white stencilling on the top two tiers with the bottom tier fully covered in gold leaf in a hexagonal shape, with so many gorgeous flowers cascading down it. I also individually wrapped custom cookies as favours for their 150+ guests, as well as birthday cakes for two guests! What’s next for Barker Bakes? I am hoping to keep bringing so many designs to life that showcase the exciting modern turn cakes and sweets are taking, continuing to break down misconceptions that cake is "just dessert". Where can we keep a watch on your delectable work? You can visit www.barkerbakes.com.au or follow Barker Bakes on socials: Instagram - @barkerbakess or Facebook - facebook.com/barkerbakess Thanks Simone. Greater Port Macquarie focus 47
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HIRE PORT knows how to have a good time!
Port Macquarie Race Club Simple, Beautiful, Affordable With sweeping views across our picturesque race course, Port Macquarie Race Club can provide an ideal venue for your celebration. Nestled in close proximity to the CBD, we can offer a range of outstanding facilities to make any event memorable. We have put together some delicious function menus, which offer an amazing variety and flexibility and would be delighted to create an event tailored to suit your taste and budget. Our function rooms can cater anywhere from 30 - 200 people with ample onsite parking, so your guests can enjoy the night away. For enquiries regarding available dates or to receive a function package, please feel free to email functions@ portmacquarieraceclub.com.au
The Powell family are the second owners of Hire Port, owning the business for over 23 years. If it’s 30 or 300 people, our experienced and reliable staff can supply marquees, tables, chairs and an assortment of essential equipment to make your wedding, party or special event a day to remember. We know our products, and we know how to get the best value out of them. What size marquee? How many tables? Dance floor or stage? PA system or jukebox? We know what you will need and have thought of the things you haven’t. Our consultative approach takes the stress out of planning your event or party. Our services include ceremony hire items, including red carpet runners, battery PA units, a wedding arch, Balinese style flags and of course, the signing table ... From the ceremony to the reception, we can set up a beautiful silk lined marquee complete with flooring and lighting which, without a doubt, will impress your family and friends. If you are also needing tables, chairs, cutlery, glassware, catering equipment, we can supply that too! If you appreciate professional, reliable service, please give us a call today! www.hireport.com.au
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speaker L I Z
P A I N E
Are you one of the seventy-five per cent of the population for whom public speaking is a terrifying proposition? Are you in a bridal party and expected to toast the bride and groom at the reception? Speech and elocution coach Liz Paine from The Occasional Speaker is able to help you prepare for a public speaking performance, making it a much easier - and unexpectedly fun - experience!
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i Liz. What’s your association with Port Macquarie? My husband and I moved to Port Macquarie about 12 years ago. We were looking for a sea change, and discovering the little piece of paradise that is Port Macquarie made the choice easy. Why did you decide to become a speech and elocution coach? I think the decision was made immediately after my own first lesson at the age of 15. My first speech and drama teacher, Yvonne Hayes, was a neighbour. My mother had mentioned to her that I was preparing for a drama performance for school, and Yvonne offered to give me some tips. It turned out she was a very experienced actor. I had one lesson, and I was hooked. I recall leaving her studio exhilarated and excited. I studied with Yvonne until my early twenties. She was an excellent teacher, mentor, drama coach and friend. She introduced me to the love of the art of speech and performance. What other training did you complete? Initially I completed a series of examinations with both the Ministry of Education and with Trinity College London. These led to qualifications as a teacher of speech and drama. I taught in my teacher’s studio until I opened my speech and drama studio in south-western Sydney in my early twenties. Later I extended my formal qualifications to include a range of business qualifications, including a Bachelor of Social Science and a post graduate qualification in Vocational Education and Training. Today I apply all this training, along with an extensive work history, to my work as a business and speech coach. Public speaking is terrifying for many
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people, but it’s often a part of our lives we can’t avoid. How can you help us overcome this fear? Indeed yes! “Glossophobia” is the term for fear of public speaking, and it’s a fear that affects up to 75% of the population. I call it podium panic. Largely, it’s the fear of being judged negatively. In truth though, an audience is rarely there to critique your public speaking performance. They’re there because you have something to say that they want to hear. Being a little nervous is a bonus. Your nervous energy is what gives a presentation vitality and engages the audience. The key to overcoming podium panic, or anxiety, is preparation, rehearsal and applying the techniques that make the delivery interesting. Sometimes I work with clients over a series of sessions to improve their presentation skills, their overall confidence or their public speaking. Others simply want assistance to write or prepare a one-off presentation or speech, or perhaps prepare for an important job interview. It’s amazing what a little self-belief and some help preparing a presentation can make. For example, we might work on vocal variety, speech clarity, delivery techniques, using props and visual aids, how to remember the content and of course, using a microphone. At a wedding reception, it’s the role of some of the wedding party to give a speech. How can you help them to prepare? As we’ve said, public speaking can be a nerveracking experience. Throw in a wedding day and an audience of both familiar and unfamiliar faces, and the experience can seem overwhelming. Unfortunately, some members of the wedding party leave the preparation until the last minute. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard a best
man say, “Oh, it’ll be right on the day once I’ve had a couple of drinks”. The reality is words rarely come tripping off the tongue the moment you stand and take hold of the microphone - or if they do, they’re probably words you’ll live to regret. If you’re a member of the bridal party who will be on “speech duty”: the groom, the bride, the best man, the father of the bride or groom, the bridesmaids, it’s important to get it right. It’s important to deliver a speech which matches your role, the occasion and your personality with just the right balance of content, sentiment, sincerity and fun. Believe it or not, preparing and making a wedding speech can be as much fun as planning every other aspect of this special event. Sometimes I run whole-of-wedding party workshops, and they can be hilarious. I can help with crafting a speech and coach on delivery. Oh, and I should say, never under-estimate how enthusiastically children can engage in wedding formalities. I love working with children to prepare a special reading, and they’re generally very capable of making a short speech too. You’ll be amazed at how professionally and confidently you can deliver your wedding speech with a little help. It’s fun too! “Elocution” is an interesting word. Some people may be very fluent when speaking, but listeners may have difficulty understanding them for various reasons. How would elocution sessions help? Yes, “elocution” is quite an old-fashioned term, and recently it’s enjoyed renewed popularity, particularly for people who know their career progression requires them to be able to speak with confidence. It’s not about what used to be referred to as “speaking with a plum in your mouth”.
Listening to some people is a pleasure. We become absorbed in their message. Whether they are speaking at a business meeting, talking to a friend or reading a passage at a wedding, their vocal style lures you to listen. They sound confident and assured, command attention and so gain credibility People take elocution lessons for all manner of reasons. Often, it's to enhance their career prospects; modify their “Aussie” accent; correct minor speech or grammar faults; or improve their vocal technique. For speakers where English is their second language, a series of elocution lessons is usually the final step in accent modification. What do you enjoy most about what you do? That’s an easy one. I get the biggest buzz from tapping into the potential of others and helping my clients to achieve their personal or career or business goals. Whether delivering a speech at a wedding, or other special event, or making a business presentation or sales pitch, it’s so rewarding to see someone grow in confidence. It’s amazing how a few simple techniques, well-delivered, can transform otherwise monotonous speech or an otherwise dreary public speech topic into an engaging presentation. Where can we find out more information? My phone number is: 0400 778 807. I have two websites: http://www.theoccasionalspeaker and http://www.learninginsight.com.au Email: weddingspeeches@ theoccasionalspeaker.com.au Thanks Liz. Interview: Jo Robinson.
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W functions B O W L I N G
at C L U B
At Port City Bowling Club we offer a variety of functions packages, ranging from corporate, memorial, party, barefoot bowls and wedding packages, depending on your situation.
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e cater for small and and three course sit down (alternate service) intimate get togethers menu from the Eastern Tiger Buffet. up to larger gatherings, We love catering for the smaller budget training days or seminars, wedding reception to a larger, more detailed with a variety of functions reception. spaces for you to choose from. When it comes to the organisation of your Port City’s function room offers a private wedding day, Port City can be as hands on and fully serviced space which seats up to 80 or off as you like, and the flexibility of our guests and overlooks nearby tennis courts, wedding package is tailored specifically, to Oxley Oval and on to Oxley Beach. make it as easy as possible, to ensure you Our lower and your guests can entertainment lounge enjoy your special day area is another unique to the fullest. Inclusions space. This area seats are room setup to your OUR FUNCTIONS up to 180 people and specific floor plan, chair COORDINATOR WILL has access to the club’s covers and sashes, white WORK CLOSELY WITH main bar and all other linen table cloths, skirting YOU TO ENSURE facilities. and ceiling draping, YOUR SPECIAL We know not all lighting, and your choice DAY OR EVENT IS functions are the same, of napkin colour/colours. EXACTLY HOW YOU and we are proud to We can also help with IMAGINED. be able to deliver a limited decorations, customised package to including tea lights and cater to your needs. Our holders, candle holders functions coordinator will and decorative jars, work closely with you to ensure your special limited table signage, small decorative black day or event is exactly how you imagined. boards and table rounds. Port City offer a range of different catering Contact Rose, our functions coordinator at options depending on your needs, from a Port City Bowling Club today! simple BBQ to a large and extensive variety of Phone (02) 6583 1133 or email platters to choose from created by our chefs functions@portcity.com.au or in Drift, or a full buffet (serve yourself) to two rose@portcity.com.au
Byabarra
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hat is it that makes The Byabarra a unique and special spot? Unparalleled beauty on the outside, warm, rustic and relaxed on the inside. This stunning venue has been designed to maximise your view of the exquisite Quintoc hinterland and will deliver an unforgettable occasion from the moment you arrive. The Byabarra boasts comfortable elegance for your special day, with commanding views of the valley sure to provide a spectacular backdrop to the photos of your special day. There are many options available when it comes to wedding ceremonies/ receptions; can you tell us about your packages? The Byabarra lends itself to outdoor ceremonies on the beautiful grassed area just below the venue proper; the spectacular backdrop really enhances your entire experience. We offer a variety of packages specially tailored to the needs of each wedding couple and their family.
We can cater for a formal seated reception meal or a more casual cocktail style - the choice is yours. We are a fully licensed venue, so we can offer the full food and beverage package; we can also assist with accommodation references and transport. What advice do you have for those who are interested in a hinterland style wedding? When choosing your venue, whether it be for a ceremony and reception or just a reception, find some you can trust where there is flexibility and understanding. Not everyone’s idea for their wedding day can be found in a single pre-designed package. Having a good rapport with the organisers is critical, to ensure you get the chance to discuss your hopes and dreams at length. At the Byabarra we are committed to getting to know our clients, to help create a bespoke wedding experience. How can you help bride and grooms to get ready for their special day? We have a private room available to the bride, groom and their wedding party for
before, during and after function use. There is a shower, toilet in a relaxed private area to chill a moment and have some private time if needed. Visit the Byabarra and discuss your special needs, so we can help you achieve everything you want on your special day. Can you tell us about the food and drink packages you offer? Our food and drink packages are all
designed in conjunction with each individual client's needs and budgets; what we can say is we are flexible on the delivery of food combinations and styles, with drinks packages budget based. How can our readers find out more information? Call or email either Alan or Kerrin and we can make a time for you to visit.
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S o u t h We s t R o c k s
COUNTRY CLUB Located in the idyllic, seaside town on the Mid North Coast of NSW, South West Rocks Country Club is the perfect spot to host your special day. Our versatile venue enables us to accommodate a range of wedding styles, including formal sit down, cocktail, indoors or outdoors, as well as many leisure and fun activities.
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ur indoor event spaces are equipped with modern facilities and privacy and can be reconfigured in alignment with your particular vision to ensure that you are more than satisfied with the space. Our Functions Manager Kim will be working collaboratively with you throughout the entire planning process. Along with all of our attentive staff, Kim always works meticulously to ensure that your wedding with us is one to remember. Indoor or outdoor weddings & receptions We have three spacious and adaptable areas at our club which are ideal for weddings of all types. Our luscious 18-hole golf course is perfect for those outdoor wedding ceremonies. Enveloped by fresh air and surrounded by lots of malleable space, this option will enable you to arrange and organise your wedding day exactly how you’d like. Not to mention,
it provides a stunning backdrop for wedding photographs! Our BBQ Terrace provides a more relaxed and casual atmosphere fit for more intimate wedding parties. The BBQ terrace is equipped with a private bar and dedicated bar staff who will ensure that all your drink-related needs are met. This space can be used for associated wedding gatherings such as hens and bucks parties, receptions, or welcoming drinks and nibbles prior to or following the wedding ceremony. There are a range of different canapé, buffet and platter options available through our in-house caterers as well. Our newly refurbished auditorium is the largest available space in the area, seating up to 300 people. With the option between formal sit down meals, buffet or cocktail, this space can accommodate for your entire wedding party and, with the help of our dedicated Functions Manager Kim, can be designed and
organised based on your vision for your special day. You will be provided with a private bar, dedicated bar staff, complete AV setup and a projector, a dance floor and use of the stage. Bucks’ & Hen’s Parties We’ve got a wide range of fun activities for hens’ and bucks’ events, including our 18-hole golf course, lawn bowls, tennis and even our newly opened tenpin bowling alley and bar Social Alley. This modern facility is fully functional, with its own bar, dining area, and private cabanas with a range of different drink and food packages on offer. You can pick to hire out the entire space or a partial section the choice is yours. At South West Rocks Country Club, we pride
ourselves on our ability to accommodate for all types of weddings. Our staff always strive to exceed expectations and will consistently go above and beyond to ensure that you’re more than satisfied with the progression of your day. Stay & Play Packages Perfect for pre or post wedding celebrations, we also offer Stay & Play packages. These provide both accommodation and leisure activities tailored just for you. If you would like any assistance or information regarding these packages, please contact Faye on (02) 6566 6252. Mention this ad to receive FREE ROOM HIRE for your event valued up to $330. We can’t wait to hear from you!
SOUTH WEST
Say ‘I Do’ AT SOUTH WEST ROCKS
SPECIAL FOCUS OFFER: Mention this ad to receive FREE ROOM HIRE for your event valued up to $330.
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At South West Rocks Country Club our wedding coordinator Kim understands the months of effort and time spent planning to ensure your special day is nothing short of perfect. From pre-wedding celebrations such as bucks and hens parties to the wedding ceremony and reception, our team will work with you to ensure your wedding celebration is just as you dreamed it would be. Just a short 1 1/2 hour drive from Coffs Harbour, it's the perfect destination wedding venue. ● Indoor and Outdoor ceremony & reception venues ● Bucks & Hens Parties ● Play & Stay packages with Golf, Lawn Bowls & Ten Pin Bowling ● Flexible Catering & Beverage packages available SOUTH WEST ROCKS COUNTRY CLUB 2 Sportmans Way South West Rocks NSW 2431 www.rockscountryclub.com.au functions@rockscountryclub.com.au 02 6566 6252
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Ellie & Isaac Mathews Happily Ever After
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irstly, congratulations on your very recent wedding. Take us back to where it all began … How did you two meet? We met in 2003 when we were in Year 7 at the St Paul’s and St Joseph’s Regional High School cross-campus walk-athon. A mutual friend introduced us, and we dated on and off for around two years. We caught up as friends in 2012 and … here we are, now Mr and Mrs Mathews. What was the overall theme of your wedding? To be honest, there was no real theme for the wedding; we just wanted small, intimate and personal. We included a lot of sentimental details and only had our immediate family and very best friends - a total of 38 altogether. The venue set the tone for the wedding. It was held at Isaac’s mum’s stunning property in Sancrox. The family home was built by Isaac’s late father, whom we honoured with a memorial candle during the ceremony. Take us through your wedding day; did it go fast, or did you get to enjoy and savour every moment? Our wedding unfolded over a number of days. On the Thursday my very talented sister, Ashley Sargeson, and her crew from Touchwood Flowers braved the 40 degree heat and came out to start decorating with florals. I had a vision, which I had relayed to Ash earlier in the year. She took that vision and amplified it to create floral perfection. At the time, the bushfires were raging in the area and by Friday, the day of the ceremony,
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they were only 6 km away from the house. When I woke, I was not sure if our wedding would be happening. I went to my family home in Bonny Hills to get ready with my three best friends and Mum, whilst Isaac stayed behind. My makeup artist, Jessica Tattersall from Adore Beauty Therapy, along with hairdressers Janette SHE TOOK THAT VISION AND and Melanie Sullivan, AMPLIFIED IT TO CREATE made me beautiful, FLORAL PERFECTION. AT whilst my best THE TIME, THE BUSHFIRES friends Kat, Brooke WERE RAGING IN THE AREA and Riss kept me What was the AND BY FRIDAY, THE DAY sane in my increasing highlight of the day? OF THE CEREMONY, THEY anxiety over the fires. There were a few. WERE ONLY 6 KM AWAY It was a long day, Seeing my bouquet for FROM THE HOUSE. but at 5:30pm Mum, the first time was one. Dad and I arrived out My sister, Ashley and at Sancrox for mine my mum had worked and Isaac’s “first together to make it look”, which was captured by our wonderful extraordinary and sentimental. Not only had photographer, Adam from Cavanagh she created just what I wanted, Ashley had Photography. After friends and family arrived bound the stems in ribbon taken from my and photos were taken, we moved down to mother’s wedding dress and embellished the back of the house, brushed the ash off it with pearls taken from my granny’s all the chairs and had our intimate ceremony pearl wedding crown and a brooch which with celebrant Geraldine Lightfoot, lit up by was given to my late grandmother on her fairy lights. wedding morning by my late grandfather. On the Saturday we had organised a big There were tears. celebration event out at Sancrox with around The second was embracing Isaac during 150 extended family and friends. We spent our “first look”. Because of my high anxiety the day setting up and answering numerous and constant fear during the day, just calls and texts from people who could not holding him in that time was so special. make it due to the fires (75 in total). We had The third was when we were pronounced a wonderful night celebrating with, needless “Mr and Mrs Mathews”. That one probably to say, more than enough food. doesn’t need an explanation ha ha.
Your wedding was a DIY; did you find this easy or hard? I would say somewhere in between. I started planning very early and made many lists, which I just kept ticking off. I am a high school teacher, so every school holidays of 2019 I made sure I had a goal and that I got everything done in that time. In addition, Isaac and I travelled to Sancrox once a month (from our home in East Maitland) to work on fixing up his mum’s house for the big day. It was extremely enjoyable and so rewarding in the end. What advice would you give to anyone embarking on this big task that is wedding planning? Make lists, use what you already have, research your options, enjoy yourself and remember not to worry about pleasing anyone else other than yourself and your future husband or wife. Oh, and don’t sweat the small stuff; something will go wrong. Just go with it. Thanks Ellie.
Port Coastal Weddings On this most important and memorable day in your life together, my goal is to work to create and deliver a ceremony that you, and your guests, will love. Not sure where to start? Relax. I will guide you through the requirements, complete the necessary paperwork and the steps to success, so that everything goes smoothly. Once the legalities are done, there are so many ways you can design your ceremony to make it uniquely yours.
I will share lots of ideas and information to get you thinking and then organise and write a ceremony just how you want it. Port Macquarie is a stunning location for an outdoor wedding, but I am willing to travel if you need me to come to you. My style is generally considered accommodating and generous. I can be as fun-loving or as serious you require. I am available for an obligation-free appointment during business hours, as well as evenings. Every ceremony is special, and I look forward to the opportunity to being part of yours. To book an obligation-free meeting, call me, Geraldine Lightfoot, on 0474 128 302.
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Wedding
SKIN PREP CHECK
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W I T H D R K R I S T Y A N D H AY L E Y
i, Dr Kristy and Hayley. When would you suggest wedding skin preparation start? K: The earlier the better when it comes to cosmetic injectables. Anti wrinkle injections and dermal fillers can take a few weeks to settle, and sometimes we like to tweak things, so we would suggest starting a few months out from your We accumulate sun wedding day. damage as we age, WE AIM TO DELIVER H: It's never too late or and only medical grade AN OVER ALL too early when it comes treatments will treat this PACKAGE TO GIVE to your skin preparation. I and improve collagen. YOU THE BEST can help achieve glowing We can guarantee OUTCOME, SO THAT skin and and prepare it results with all of the YOU CAN LOOK AND for a smooth and flawless treatments we offer. FEEL YOUR BEST ON makeup application. We do Do you offer group YOUR SPECIAL DAY! have treatments with no bookings? down time and others are K and H: Yes, we offer designed to treat specific packages for the whole skin conditions which may need to be started bridal party (including the groom) and not to at least six months prior to the wedding day. forget the mother of the bride/groom. We What sort of services to do you each can also do group bookings on Saturdays (by offer? appointment only). K: I specialise in advanced facial aesthetics; What is involved in the consultation? which means whole face treatments using K: A full facial assessment with both injectables. The aim is always for a natural Hayley and I. This allows us to discuss any and subtle rejuvenation. Good aesthetic work skin concerns and formulate a combined should be undetectable. approach. Treatments can start on the day, or H: We have hand selected all of our medical be scheduled at a later date. grade skin treatments from lactic peels, We aim to deliver an overall package to give dermapen, de-pigmentation treatments and you the best outcome, so that you can look skin tightening. PMAC treats all skin concerns, and feel your best on your special day! We including pigmentation, enlarged pores, charge a ($99 per person) consultation fee, scarring, acne, wrinkle reduction and rosacea. which is redeemable on any service booked.
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Greater Port Macquarie WEDDING Guide
PRESTIGE at an affordable price. Your wedding deserves a little touch of class; Port Prestige Wedding Cars and Limousines can help create just that when you arrive in one of their stylish Jaguars. Owner operators Mark and Danena Stone offer not only wonderful Limousines, but service and attention to detail to match. Being the most experienced wedding car and Limousine service in Port Macquarie, the business has grown from a single Jaguar sedan to now the largest fleet of prestige Jaguar wedding vehicles in the area. Impress your guests and feel like royalty. You can pick from the XJ Stretch Jaguar Limousine or the DS420 royal Daimler limousine - the choice is yours. All needs of the bride, groom and attendants are covered leading up to and throughout your wedding day.
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Priding themselves on their personal service, they offer fully suited chauffeurs, who are courteous and punctual and will provide old fashioned service and a smile, ensuring your day goes off without a hitch. Complimentary champagne, red carpet, tulle, ribbons and a level of service others can only aspire to, Port Prestige Wedding Cars and Limousines provide prestige at an affordable price. Experience the elegance only a Jaguar can provide; spoil yourself. All you have to do is relax and enjoy your special day! Jaguar - there is no substitute. If you wish to arrive in style at your wedding, contact Kevin on 0419 600 369 to arrange an appointment to visit the showroom and view the superb fleet: www.portprestige.com.au