The award for ‘Best Ever Wedding DIY’ (Ok… according to me!) without a doubt, goes to the astonishing Mr & Mrs Groud, whom I married in late 2017 at Aghadoe, a sprawling, country estate, just outside of Daylesford, Victoria.
I’m serious. It was one of the prettiest and most visually stunning weddings I have ever been to.
Sarah & Lucas, along with their very creative family, worked hard to create many detailed elements, ensuring the day was an absolute beauty.
They cleverly nailed their brief of a ‘warm, happy French country fair,’ as they welcomed family who had travelled from France for the wedding.
The family designed their own invitations & running sheets, created carnival style games and built market stalls which served home-made drinks and canapes. They planned and cooked the entire menu, wedding cake and decorated the dining barn. There was even a live French accordion player the family found busking in Melbourne. (All so perfectly captured by food & lifestyle photographer, Marnie Hawson.)
The magical atmosphere meant guests were transported to the French countryside for the celebration.
It has to be said that the Groud’s are one super–crafty bunch, so for those who would like to follow in their footsteps, more planning and work is involved, than might be initially visible to the naked eye!
However, if you’re inspired to include some DIY elements for your own wedding, know that it will help add an authentic and personal feel to your day. It might even save you some $$.
WEDDING DIY
DONE RIGHT
Q&A with Sarah Groud, Bride
Where did you get your inspiration?
"We got our inspiration from Pinterest where we searched under 'DIY and rustic barn weddings.' Also from our love of the countryside and personal experiences in France. We fell in love with the markets, the gardens and the music. So many of our creative ideas came from our families!"
Which home-made (or DIY) element do you think worked best at your wedding?
"Our homemade market stalls. We wanted to recreate a garden market feel for the nibbles and drinks straight after the ceremony and before the reception. My Father-In-Law made the stalls out of wood and linen. From there we served homemade waffles with a chocolate fountain, Pimm’s punch and nachos, while people milled around on the grass in the sunshine and listened to the accordionist."
What advice would you give to couples wanting to try to do create a DIY wedding themselves?
"DIY elements are the most wonderful idea for a wedding. But just keep in mind that they often take quite a bit of time (especially if you're making them yourself!) so make sure you get things done well in advance. Perhaps pick a few ideas rather than trying to achieve every little thing you come across on Pinterest!"
Wedding flowers were by ADM Flowers
For more about celebrant Kate Morgan visit the website.
Kate Morgan is a full time, Melbourne based wedding celebrant.
For more info visit the website: https://www.katemorgan.net.au/