Nikki + Damon

Damon had to borrow a friend’s trousers – as shorts aren’t allowed – to visit Nikki at her workplace and ask her on a date. She agreed and from that day they have been together. It was a day in March 2019 while the couple were walking their fur-child Letty at the Ocean Grove dog beach that Nikki turned around to find Damon on one knee, beautiful ring in hand and asking her to marry him. Once Nikki realised that the known prankster was indeed serious, she accepted. Neither of the couple had previously attended a wedding and were now faced with the daunting prospect of having to organise their own. With the help of a few Facebook groups and attending wedding expos in Geelong – where they met most of their vendors offering discounts – Nikki and Damon were soon on their way to preparing for their own special day. They were also fortunate to win a few prizes at the expos and cannot recommend attending them highly enough.

As with most couples, Covid-19 severely marred their plans for a 2021 ceremony and as Nikki had interstate family invited, the locked borders put paid to that – not to mention dancefloors were strictly off limits. The original day turned out to be a shocker weather-wise and they were granted a warm, sunny day of 24 degrees on the rescheduled date where 90 guests enjoyed a relaxed and comfortable celebration. Both Damon’s and Nikki’s most memorable moments from the day was when they first saw each other and knowing all their family and friends felt comfortable and had a fun time. They believe newly-engaged couples should plan a celebration that represents them and it will turn out perfect. Also do a lot of research prior to booking vendors as it will save money.

honourable mentions

Gown: Maisey Bridal Couture purchased from Embrace Bridal Boutique Bridesmaids gowns: Billy J Shoes: Billini Hair: Hair by Kayla Huntington Makeup: Tones of Bronze Suits: YD and Politix Rings: Duffs Celebrant: Kate Uren Ceremony: Geelong Botanic Gardens – The Temporate Garden Reception: Pako Raw Flowers: Made by Nikki and her sister with dried and preserved flowers purchased from Pampas Palms, Melbourne Catering: Pako Raw Cake: Letitia Black cakes Photography: MEO weddings Honeymoon: Port Macquarie