Nothing stays a secret for long anymore. What was once the Victorian governments “best kept secret” is now our new favourite wedding venue. The Briars, a historic rural property only an hour from Melbourne on the Mornington Peninsula, was the perfect place for Desriee and Josh to host their relaxed, country style wedding. “We knew we wanted a ‘barn style’ wedding and an atmosphere that would resemble a party”, says Desiree who was right to think it was an absolute steal at only $500!
For a moment, we didn’t believe it either. But then stranger things have happened – like people finding their dream dress on Instagram. “I had already spotted my dress on the Grace Loves Lace Instagram prior to becoming engaged”, says Desiree who jumped at the chance to make a trip to sunny Queensland to be fitted. “A couple of months later I had a handmade dress delivered ready for the big day.”
In keeping with their laid back vibe, Desiree and Josh chose Melbourne-based photographer Kim Cartmell for her relaxed and unobtrusive style. They also chose to serve guests gourmet street food via The Taco Truck and Beat Box Kitchen and a selection of sweets reminiscent of any primary school bake day. “Another example of our relaxed party style vibe was serving friends ice cold beers straight from a serving tub out the front of the barn”, says Josh who can now claim he’s married to a woman with the best taste in shoes… yes we are a little obsessed with those baby blue Modcloth numbers.
CREDITS Photos Kim Cartmell // Bridal gown Grace Loves Lace // Shoes ShaniBar via Modcloth // Rings Armadale Antique Centre // Jewellery Windfall Jewellery, Michael Kors and Angus & Coote // Grooms suit Peter Jackson (jacket) and Ben Sherman (shirt) // Grooms shoes LoveJulesLeather via Etsy // Bow tie and pocket square Ben Sherman // Ceremony and reception The Briars, VIC // Catering The Taco Truck and Beat Box Kitchen // Cake Sweet Dakita // Styling Pig in Mud Styling // Stationery Nomie // Hair and makeup Heidi Irene Makeup Artistry // Music Jarrod & Zoe // Celebrant Terry Kitcher // Cinematographer Video Boutique.