Lee and Natalie did something that lots of people talk about, often quite seriously, but rarely do. It was an “almost” Sydney elopement, in that they still had seven family members fly across with them from their home town Adelaide.
As Natalie points out, everything was organised via email, so we met for the first time as they were getting ready at the very fashionable QT Hotel (in the former Gowings building). And what a great location that is. It has real character, and a lot of the old fittings from Gowing’s day still exists. Oh – and the rooms are large! Noticeably large.
Back in the day Gowings used to do $5 haircuts in a back corner on the second level (from memory). I remember queuing up next to the different businessmen and tradies and sitting in the old chairs awaiting a turn with one of the barbers. The QT hotel have kept it going. Lee went and had a shave in the redone barber’s area. After that he and Natalie dodged each other in the hotel as they dressed separately.
Lee and his family went across the Harbour to await Natalie and her parents arriving in that fabulous car. Lee held his breath as Natalie walked to him – she did look beautiful. The ceremony began and the seven family members stood close to them, witnessing their vows during their Sydney elopement.
We’ve asked Lee and Natalie a few questions and perhaps it might help anyone thinking of doing an out-of-town wedding with a small number of guests. After all a wedding can be personalised the way the two of you want it.
Why Sydney? “We’ve always wanted a destination wedding within Australia. We wanted a location that was iconic, beautiful and somewhere completely different to any wedding we have ever been to or will go to. Sydney ticked all the boxes and most of all we’ve always loved Sydney so it was the perfect choice.“
Was it easy or hard to organise? “As I didn’t know anyone in Sydney I couldn’t go with any recommendations however lets’ just say a big thank you to the internet! Although I spent many hours and nights researching potential celebrants, photographers, hair and makeup stylists, florists, car hires, wedding dinner restaurants, event furniture hire stylists and a few other things to make the weekend and day special, we found the distance wasn’t an issue.“
Would you recommend it? “YES!!!! We’ve already been recommending it to our friends who aren’t married.“
What were the advantages of doing the wedding this way? “We were able to take in and embrace every moment as having such an intimate ceremony made us feel relaxed and be able to enjoy every moment. Also we didn’t have the pressure of worrying what everyone thinks of the day.“
And what made your day special to you? “Not doing the wedding day normalities…we were able to have a romantic breakfast together under the Sydney harbour bridge, pamper ourselves at a day spa with a relaxing massage and being able to create more of an experience by celebrating our wedding at one of Sydney’s finest restaurants.“
What will you fondly remember from your wedding day? “How amazing the whole day was and how much fun we had.“
From a photographers perspective it’s also a great reminder of how good this city looks to a visitor. It’s a vibrant, colourful destination. We have so many wonderful backdrops in and around the city, and we shouldn’t ignore the most popular spots because they’re popular, we can embrace them because they’re so fantastic and always have been.
Lee and Natalie got ready for their Sydney elopement at QT Hotel
Natalie’s amazing dress is from Galanni
Audrey & Angus Weddings and Events provided the wedding arbor, table and chairs (and that brilliant chandelier).
If you’re taking the plunge with a Sydney elopement and would love beautiful photography then it’s time to talk to Sarah or myself. We take compelling, elegant and timeless stills. We capture the most valuable images in the world. Yours.
David
Contact Us / Facebook / info@davidhenryphotography.com.au / Phone: 0411 137 747
