What could be more romantic than getting married in a beautiful chapel surrounded by amazing gardens and unlimited spots for photo opportunities? Rob and Alanna said "I do" at Tamborine Gardens Wedding Resort, and it was a day they'll never forget. The serene gardens provided the perfect backdrop for their special day, and they were surrounded by their loving friends and family.
It was truly a magical day and their day was one of the most emotional weddings I’ve had the honour of officiating! You can read all about that below, but first, here are Rob and Alanna’s tips and advice on how to have the wedding of your dreams!
What were your hopes and dreams for your wedding ceremony?
To have those closest to us witness our vows to one another and experience a day of love and laughter.
What were you worried about or didn't know when planning your ceremony?
Nothing as our celebrant and wedding venue made the whole process extremely easy.
What are you thankful for?
Thankful that Alanna's family were able to make it from Scotland and also thankful for everyone involved as the day was bliss in a seamless motion.
How would you describe the feel of your ceremony?
Full of love, laughter and tears of joy! Also had an amazing atmosphere.
Where did you get your vow writing inspiration?
Drawn from Celtic wedding vows and my amazing celebrant helped as well.
Did you keep them secret from each other or did you share?
Yes, kept it a secret.
Would you change anything about your vows?
Absolutely not!
What are the things you would never change?
Literally the whole day! Wouldn't change a thing!
What was your highlight/must have at the reception?
Watching my wife walk down the aisle to the Bagpipes. Entrance to the ceremony. And must have a photo booth!
What would you change if you had your day over again? If anything.
Absolutely nothing! So blessed to have a perfect day.
Top 3 tips
Plan well
Plan in advance
Savour every moment - take a moment to breathe and take it all in
Anything else you would like to share with other couples?
It is your special day. Enjoy your significant other's company and just have fun!!!
Who were your vendors?
How would you describe your vendors?
Every single person that played a part were absolutely amazing. Our special day was perfectly seamless due to their love and assistance.
How did you choose your vendors?
All were chosen with a true sense of connection.
Do you recommend your vendors?
110%
Rob and Alanna had the most incredible wedding ceremony, and if I had to describe their wedding in 3 words, it would be "all the heart". Their ceremony was a celebration of their love for each other and a celebration for all of the love they have for their family and friends, and there are no words to describe how it felt to be part of that journey.
Rob and Alanna, the dream team, my absolute power couple!!! Their journey began at Alanna's work, where Rob would deliver her pallets nearly every morning and even make excuses to go back just to see her. It was Alanna's accent that lured him in, and she was young, gorgeous and ambitious. For Alanna, it was, of course, Rob's cheeky personality, his good looks, and he smelt soooo good - the cute little notes left on the pallets most definitely helped!!! Today, they are lucky enough to work together and yes, they are both still cheeky and I love them to bits!
Rob and Alanna's wedding day was filled with so much love, joy and happiness. They were so fortunate to be surrounded by their treasured family and friends. Alanna was accompanied by bagpipes (symbolising her home country of Scotland) from her room to the chapel at the beautiful Tamborine Mountains Garden Resort, and I can still feel the goosebumps and the energy in the chapel. And if I'm totally honest, even now, writing this post for you all, my chest pounds with pride and love, and there may be a sneaky tear in my eye.
Another beautiful memory from their day was that Rob's parents celebrated 40 years together. For Rob and Alanna, their parents are the epitome of lifelong love. Living proof that marriages these days can and do last.
So, of course, I secretly messaged Rob and Alanna's parents to find out the secret so I could share it with Rob and Alanna during their ceremony.
"Simply - there is no secret, but to always remember the reason that bought you together as a couple. Always be open and honest with your feelings. Communication is key. Do not just give in, fight for your marriage. Look at things through the others' eyes. Be willing to change and grow as you go through the different stages of your lives. Help each other as much as possible in all aspects of day to day living. Always be respectful of each other. Know that you will have arguments, you will have disagreements, you will from time to time think you hate each other but never hold a grudge and remember, communication, honesty, why you love each other and never take each other for granted. Be each other's best friend."
WOW right!!!!! How lucky are Rob and Alanna to have these incredible words of wisdom from their parents that adore each other and how lucky are they to have each other.
Rob and Alanna's ceremony included so many beautiful elements. Alanna shared the most beautiful vows with Lilah (Rob's daughter) and there wasn't a dry eye in the chapel. She was, of course, standing right by their sides on one of the most important days of all of their lives.
"Lilah, I promise to love you like you are my own, to support you in every way I can, to hold you when you are sad, protect you, care for you and love you forever. I also promise to be in your corner when dad meets your first boyfriend. I have a full heart bursting with love for you and your dad. I vow to always stand by your sides. I love you both to the moon and back."
Lilah also got to tie her dad and Alanna up ;) in the ancient Celtic custom of the handfasting ceremony which was especially common in Ireland and Scotland.
Rob and Alanna also honoured their mothers during the ceremony - they were the first to kiss them and bring them into this world, so it seemed only fitting that they would be the first to kiss and send them on their way to their new life together as husband and wife.
It was an absolute dream to be part of Rob and Alanna's wedding journey. And I’d love to share with you all what they thought of me - how lucky am I!!!!
How would you describe Kerri Watkins Celebrant to other couples?
Kerri is now family! She had us feeling extremely comfortable and we knew we were in safe and caring hands. Nothing was ever too much to ask and Kerri gave us so many handy tips and hints to help with making our special day perfect! The actual ceremony was AMAZING! Our family and friends were treated to her delightful humour and her genuine caring nature. I could never imagine using anyone else to marry us. Outstanding celebrant.
Thank you again Rob and Alanna for sharing your magical day with me and sharing your hints and tips with future couples. Wishing you both a lifetime of love, joy, happiness and friendship xx
And a huge shoutout to the team at Tamborine Gardens Mountain Resort for looking after my amazing couple and to Andrew and the team from Foy and Co Photography for capturing the very essence of our power couple!