What a perfect day it was for Maddi and Tom’s Howard Smith Wharves wedding.
Planning to marry in 2020 this lovely couple were delivered more than their fair share of curve balls. Forced to postpone their original plans for a church ceremony, with a generous guest list, then postpone again a second time, when it came to planning the third time round, they decided to re-think their entire original wedding plans and create a day that was truly them and thoroughly enjoyable.
They decided on a meaningful yet relaxed wedding ceremony at Howard Smith Wharves Bougainvillea House in the company of their family and closest friends. Followed by a cocktail reception at the same venue.
Groom Tom and his boys enjoyed a relaxed morning getting ready at the on site hotel, The Fantauzzo, before taking a short stroll up to Bougainvillea House to begin greeting guests as they arrived. Before beautiful Maddi was walked down the aisle by her proud as punch father.
This adorable couple locked eyes as I presented their ceremony, including sharing the story of how they met almost 9 years earlier:
“After a full day in a corporate box at the cricket, Tom was full of courage and was quick to make his advances.
Despite playing it cool and deflecting some, if not all of Tom’s moves, Maddi liked the look of Tom and asked one of his friends what his last name was?
“Hmmm… Maddi Barker” she said, “that sounds nice”.
Since that night, Maddi and Tom have shared many significant milestones together, including, 21st birthdays, graduations, new jobs, promotions, overseas holidays, their engagement, buying their first home together and the ensuing renovations, not to mention planning this wedding 3 times!
Which brings us today, Maddi and Tom’s next significant milestone together, where Maddi will take Tom’s last name for real, nearly 9 years after trying it on for the first time.”
After sharing beautiful surprise vows, and after almost 9 years together with two postponed weddings under their belts the couple were delighted to be presented as husband and wife and their guests cheered with happiness for them.
I loved being a part of this couples special day so I was so happy to receive this beautiful message from the couple after their day.
“Cara, a huge thank you from Tom and I! We had the absolute best day and we loved everything about our ceremony. It really meant a lot to us to say our own vows and personalise how things ran. It felt like we were in our own little bubble.
We really appreciate you being so great to work with and all of our guests said how much they enjoyed the ceremony!” Maddi + Tom
If you enjoyed hearing about this ceremony and if we sound like the kind of Celebrants you are looking for, for your special day we would LOVE to hear from you!
Contact Us now for more information and to confirm availability for your special day. Celebrant Cara Hodge – Brisbane City Celebrants
Special mentions to Maddi and Tom’s dream team of wedding vendors.
Photography Moments by Frankie
Venue Howard Smith Wharves – Bougainvillea House
Flowers Mrs Gibbons Flowers
On the day coordination Haus of Hera Events
Make Up & Hair Kate Devlin and Isabella Jane
Eager to see more? you can view more blog posts of weddings we have loved being the Celebrant for on our blog at Howard Smith Wharves weddings.