We love you Julie! Could not have asked for a better celebrant. She made the process so easy and our day even more special and fun by having her there! Relaxed, professional, and a wizard with words! She helped tell our love story so beautifully; we had feedback from guests telling us how much they loved the personalised touch that Julie brings to the ceremony. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you Julie! You’re simply the best ❤️

ARABELLA & JAMES

Julie did an amazing job as our celebrant. From our first phone call and first meeting, nothing was too much trouble and she made the entire process of writing our vows so easy and enjoyable.  She did wait for quite a long time as we were late in starting our ceremony.  Julie went above and beyond to make our ceremony that extra bit special and it was perfect. We really recommend Julie. Thanks so much.

GURKEERAT & HARDEEP

I could not have gone through my wedding without Julie .. we had a lot of hiccups postponing due to covid although Julie made it feel easy and helped every step of the way. Julie told our beautiful love story and made us feel so loved and not nervous at all. The kids also loved having Julie their and they loved that they were all involved with our wedding! Thankyou so much for a wedding we will never ever forget and for helping us every step of the way ❤️

LOGAN & MICHAEL

From the moment we met with Julie, my partner and I knew she was the perfect person to marry us. She was so welcoming, friendly and bubbly, each time we met we left the meetings even more excited for our day. Julie did an incredible job tailoring our ceremony to uniquely suit my partner and I, filled with laughter, love and many happy tears. When our special day finally arrived, we braved the wild Autumn weather and Julie did an amazing job throughout our ceremony and everything ran so smoothly, even when we had to run under cover to sign our registry due to the crazy wind and rain! We are so grateful! Thank you so much Julie xoxo

Love Mr & Mrs Veenstra

LOUISE & JARRYD

Julie was our celebrant for my husband and I. We had a mini wedding in the snow and Julie was amazing. We couldn’t have asked for a better celebrant for our day and felt so lucky to stumble upon her. She tailored the wedding to all our plans and made the day feel very special. Everything was too a high standard and all our family including family on Skype were made to feel involved in our special day.

KAREN & MATTHEW

Julie was everything we could have hoped for our celebrant. Although we only met 10 months before our big day it was like we had known her forever. She really took the time to get to know us and made our ceremony so personalised and full of love. It really was all the little extra details she put in that just made it. I honestly couldn't recommend Julie enough.

STEPHANIE & CHRISTIAN

Julie, you made everything so easy, and we are beyond blessed to have had you as our celebrant on our big day. You made the entire process incredibly simple which is more than what we could ever ask for. Chloe and I couldn't believe our luck that we met a celebrant who was as friendly and patient as Julie. It is amazing how much work and effort Julie put in to make the ceremony highly customised and personal - it was exactly how we wanted it to be. Whether it be meeting up in Melbourne or having a chat over video, Julie was always there to answer our questions, calm us down when we needed it the most and ultimately guide us through a day that we won't forget. If anyone is looking for a celebrant who will listen to you and provide a service of the highest quality, I would recommend Julie 100 times over! Thanks for everything.

JAKE & CHLOE

Couldn’t have asked for more of an amazing day and Julie made it all the more special for myself and Chris! The words she used to describe us were 100% spot on and even gave us a good laugh! Making the ceremony all the more perfect with not one dull moment! It’s something we will remember forever! Thank you so much again and hope to see you again one day! Xx

LOREN & CHRIS

Words couldn’t possibly describe how amazingly beautiful and sweet Julie Butt is. If you are looking for that perfect celebrant, Julie is everything you’d be looking for and more. This kind-hearted lady married my husband and I and honestly, we couldn’t have asked for a better celebrant. She’s so full of love and kindness, she makes your special day that little bit extra. 🥰 Beautiful work Julie. 💗

CHLOE & CLAY

We had Julie as our celebrant for our wedding. Julie was the best celebrant we could have asked for. Julie made the conscious effort to know our relationship and make the ceremony very personal to us as a couple. We recommend Julie as a celebrant, she always stays in contact and ensures the ceremony runs smoothly.

TYRONE & EMILY

I would highly recommend Julie as a celebrant. I have known her since I was in high school, as she was one of my teachers, one of my favourites I might add. And she still has all those amazing qualities today. Julie personalised our ceremony with such beautiful detail and made us feel so comfortable on the day. She takes pride in her job as a celebrant and fully commits to being the best celebrant she can be for you to ensure your day is so special. I am so so glad that I reached out to her to be a part of our special day!

SHAE & LUCAS

Julie was such an important part of our wedding ceremony. Not only was she supportive and professional, but she brought humour and nothing but positive vibes. Over the last few months she wanted to make sure our wedding was led by us, while giving us advice, the end result was an amazing wedding. Without Julie it wouldn’t have been as amazing as it was and we are grateful for the services she provided!

SAMANTHA AND MATTHEW

Julie was absolutely amazing. From our first meeting over a coffee, all the way through to our wedding day. She was there to offer support the whole way. We couldn't have asked for a more lovely, caring and compassionate celebrant. Thank you so much for helping make our day as special as it was.

JAMIE & GEORGIA

Julie went above and beyond in the preparation for our wedding day and above our expectations on our special day. She made our ceremony personal and exactly suited to how we wanted to celebrate. She made our children feel apart of it all even making a special certificate for them to sign. We loved having you there on our day and couldn’t have asked for a better person to do it. Highly recommend Julie for anybody’s wedding day! Michelle, Jack and kids

MICHELLE & JACK

Julie was my celebrant. We vibed over both having experience in the Education sector. Julie was lovely in making sure that both I and my partner were happy with the flow & level of personal detail in the wedding ceremony. While I do enjoy a bit of performance, my partner does not; she balanced the two beautifully. She provided plenty of material to help us make decisions around vows, music, and little details to make the day special. She was a wealth of knowledge in local services. Thank you for helping to bring the day together, Julie :)

JESSICA & SAM

Your wedding is always one of those special and interment occasions in your life. Choosing the right person to marry you can always be difficult, so when we first met with Julie it felt like she was part of our family. Julie had the ability to help us focus on what was important to us and guided us every step of the way. We were certain that our special day would be exactly what we had planned and hoped for, and we must say the day exceeded our expectation. We asked Julie to celebrate with us as our ceremony and reception were at home. You would have thought Julie was a family member as she mingled with our immediate family respectfully. Julie was a great celebrant and furthermore a delightful person. We cannot thank Julie enough and hope to continue our relationship with her into the future.

SHANE & LEAH

Julie was our celebrant for our wedding and she did the most amazing job!! We met for coffee initially and she was extremely professional but most importantly she was able to make both of us feel at ease. On the big day she was able to capture the way both us feel about each other and then share our love with all of our guests. We were so pleased with Julie as our celebrant that we asked her to stay for the reception and join our family and friends to help us fully celebrate our love. We both highly recommend Julie for anyone considering a wedding celebrant!

LUKE & KELVIN

Julie is loving, thoughtful and patient. We truly felt as though she had been known and beloved by our family for years and we felt so comfortable during our big day with Julie guiding us through. Thank you so much Julie for making our wedding day as relaxing and special as possible! We highly recommend her and her gentle, wonderful guidance! Lots of love always, Shannon and Jamie

SHANNON & JAMIE

Julie made our day so incredibly special. We didn’t make things easy - we live interstate and we decided to elope with short notice. Julie met with us virtually to get an idea of what kind of ceremony we wanted, she suggested local companies for us and even picked up the flowers on the way to the venue. Amazing service, so incredibly easy and she made the whole day completely stress-free. The ceremony was a perfect mixture of us and so genuinely delivered. The day wouldn’t have been the same without her. Thank you, Julie!

CASSIE & MAT

Excellent service & person - ceremony tailored to suit us & our personalities. Great experience overall - would recommend 👍 …

ETHAN & DANA

My husband and I were wanting to get married during the peak covid period, so we were after a relaxed celebrant to oversee the ceremony. When we first met Julie (FaceTime) we knew she was the one for us. Julie was able to put together a ceremony that suited our needs. She went above and beyond to make our day special and had a few laughs along the way. Highly recommended.

TRISH & GEOFFREY

Julie, thank you so much for being a huge part of our big day. We are so grateful to have bumped into you down the street that one time, because I couldn’t have imagined anyone else to have married us. You made us feel so comfortable and happy. Really great to have had you by our side.

PENNY & RILEY

Julie made our Mother’s Funeral a memorable and special occasion. Julie gave us structure and strength to celebrate our mother’s life in a way that we are proud of. Thank you so much Julie. Mum would have been so pleased!

ANDREW

Julie was an absolute Gem. So caring and thoughtful in putting together my Mum’s funeral service. We have had so much feedback on how friends and family enjoyed celebrating Mums life with us. We feel like we have gained a true and trusted friend in this time of sorrow, who identified with mum and did her service brilliantly. Thank you so much Julie for all your time and effort helping us through this. Would whole heartily recommend Julie to anyone.

KERRY

Julie made our mother’s memorial truly special. In a time of grief and sadness she helped us plan and write the most beautiful eulogy, which she delivered with warmth and sensitivity. Julie knew exactly how to make this a beautiful event honouring our dear mum in a way she would have loved. I could not recommend her more highly.

SALLY

February 27, 2021

By Julie Butt, Marriage Celebrant

On the last balmy day of summer, beneath two ancient riverside trees and framed by the surrounding hills, Riley and Penny were married with their closest family and friends surrounding them in the high country of Victoria at Dargo.  It was simply magical.

Penny and the entire bridal party arrived on the back of a vintage ute while Riley stood waiting on a grassy riverbank.  When Penny wound her way through the trees on her dad’s arm to join Riley, she was radiant.

Seated on simple wooden bench seats were the people that mattered most to Riley and Penny. Amongst them were their grandparents who had celebrated their 52nd wedding anniversary that month!!  It was such a great celebration.  The family and friends gave a resounding ‘We Do’ when asked to love and support them in their marriage in the years ahead.

Penny and Riley’s love story was familiar to me as I had personally known them for many years, sharing this sweet love story which included Riley’s incredibly romantic proposal made the guests visibly teary eyed.

They exchanged their vows and wedding rings and finally sealed their marriage with an unforgettable first kiss as husband and wife.

Marrying Penny and Riley was wonderful as I have known them both since they were young teenagers; they are both so easy to love. Following their riverside wedding ceremony, guests celebrated into the night at the historic and atmospheric Dargo Hotel. 

I loved being their celebrant and as I drove the winding road back down the mountain I reflected on their happiness and joy and how much promise there was in their future together.  I was still smiling the next day. 

Celebrant:  Julie Butt

Photographer:  Elly Jade Photography

Venue: Dargo High Plains – Lind River Bridge Dargo – Dargo Hotel

Florals:  Made with love by their family

Decorating: With love by their family

Penny Riley and I after signing their marriage documents. I loved being their celebrant.

March 20, 2021

By Julie Butt, Marriage Celebrant

A wedding at home is always special and this wedding was no exception.  On a late Autumn afternoon, on a balcony overlooking the glistening Gippsland Lakes, Shane waited for his bride Leah to descend the stairs and stand by his side. 

My breath was taken away when I first glimpsed her on the arm of her father; she was elegant, poised and so naturally beautiful in her cream silk gown.  Accompanied softly by Joe Cocker’s ‘You Are So Beautiful To Me’, this was one of ‘those weddings’ which was simply perfect in every way.  Surrounded by family and close friends their ceremony was sweet, sincere and simple.  It truly reflected their unique love and devotion to one another.  Vows were spoken with great tenderness, rings were exchanged and a first kiss as husband and wife set the mood for a wonderful celebration.

Their waterside Paynesville home created a perfect setting and meticulous preparations for the day ensured it ran like clockwork and looked incredible.  Following the ceremony, we enjoyed sparkling on the balcony and Michelle Boyd and her team from MBPC immediately tempted guests with exquisite canapés and a huge grazing platter.

Everyone was overjoyed to share in Shane and Leah’s happiness and celebrate the beginning of their lives as a married couple.  It was a privilege to be their celebrant and I loved being part of their wedding day.

Kind Words ……

‘Your wedding is always one of those special and intimate occasions in your life.
Choosing the right person to marry you can always be difficult, so when we first met with Julie it felt like she was part of our family.
Julie had the ability to help us focus on what was important to us and guided us every step of the way.
We were certain that our special day would be exactly what we had planned and hoped for and we must say the day exceeded our expectation.
We asked Julie to celebrate with us as our ceremony and reception were at home. You would have thought Julie was a family member as she mingled with our immediate family respectfully.
Julie was a great celebrant and furthermore a delightful person.
We cannot thank Julie enough and hope to continue our relationship with her into the future.’

Shane and Leah

Celebrant:               Julie Butt

Photographer:          Rachel Holloway Photography

Venue:                   Home of Leah and Shane, dazzling waterfront at Paynesville

Florals:                   Benita Tscharke Boutique Floral Design

Catering:                MBPC Michelle Boyd Private Chef

April 10, 2021

By Julie Butt, Marriage Celebrant

When I first met Louise, I could see how she and Jarryd were perfect together.  They were supportive, complementary and totally devoted to one another.  Wedding planning meetings were wonderful; their vision for the ceremony completely reflected them as a couple who love country life and adore one another.

April 10 evolved into a wild, blustery and squally day.  However, this added to the drama of the main event when a window of blue sky and sunshine appeared just in time for the ceremony.  Set on the grass, just above the vineyard at Avon Ridge were white wooden chairs, wine barrels and a wrought iron arbour draped in glorious florals awaiting the entrance of the bride.  Waiting patiently stood Jarryd, looking very handsome and flanked by his four groomsmen in country inspired outfits.

Softly, as if gliding from within the vines appeared the adorable baby Amelia Rose in her mother’s arms followed by the four elegantly rose hued bridesmaids carrying exquisite rose filled bouquets.  Following them, Louise was an absolute vision crossing from the vineyard to the grassy aisle in her full-length white lace gown, the train billowed dramatically as the wind caught it.  Walking softly towards Jarryd on the arm of her mother, Louise was a spectacular bride. Sometimes the weather is actually on your side!!!

The large group of wedding guests made up of family and friends gathered were so enthusiastic in their love and support of Jarryd and Louise.  It was a fantastic celebration.

Louise and Jarryd’s love story was shared during the ceremony as were their beautifully written personal vows to one another.  After rings were exchanged their wedding promises were sealed with an ever so romantic kiss. 

A wild squall had us all running uphill for shelter where the marriage certificates were signed and the final presentation of the newly wed Mr and Mrs Veenstra were congratulated. From the verandah overlooking the autumn grapevines we all drank a toast to their future happiness and looked forward to the celebrations ahead.  

I loved being Jarryd and Louise’s celebrant and sharing such an unforgettable day with them.

Kind Words ……

‘From the moment we met with Julie, my partner and I knew she was the perfect person to marry us. She was so welcoming, friendly and bubbly, each time we met we left the meetings even more excited for our day. Julie did an incredible job tailoring our ceremony to uniquely suit my partner and I, filled with laughter, love and many happy tears.

When our special day finally arrived, we braved the wild Autumn weather and Julie did an amazing job throughout our ceremony and everything ran so smoothly, even when we had to run under cover to sign our registry due to the crazy wind and rain! We are so grateful!

Thank you so much Julie xoxo
Love Mr & Mrs Veenstra’

Celebrant:               Julie Butt

Photographer:          Hannah Gilbert Photographer

Venue:                   The Vines on Avon - Maffra

Florals:                   Benita Tscharke Boutique Floral Design

Reception:                The Vines On Avon - Maffra

ANNE MARIE + JOHN – Home Sweet Home 

March 28, 2020

By Julie Butt, Marriage Celebrant

In 1942 it was written that “Love does not consist of gazing at each other, but in looking outward together in the same direction.” 

( Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, Airman's Odyssey )

I first met Ann-Maree and John overlooking the Gippsland Lakes at ‘Pier70’ in Paynesville in 2019.  Immediately we began to chat; they were a very relaxed and happy couple who outlined exactly what sort of waterfront wedding they were planning at that gorgeous venue.  Boats, water, friends and family staying waterside (sigh) - it was going to be perfect. For them and their guests.

However, 2020 was a year of ‘changing plans’ and the previous Paynesville Pier70 waterfront wedding plan had to be reimagined and translated into an intimate micro wedding at their country home in the bushland of Mt Taylor. Ann-Maree and John had the option to delay their wedding, but they rapidly decided to keep their March wedding date and ‘be married’. Waiting any longer to be married wasn’t on their radar at all. All of the extras involved in a wedding simply paled into insignificance and brought the focus back to the main event which was their actual wedding – two people in love exchanging vows and making promises for a shared life.

So that’s what we did on a balmy Autumn Saturday afternoon. Sheep calmly grazed, munching away, occasionally glancing across the home paddock to witness Ann-Maree and John promising their lives to one another in the garden of their home at Mt Taylor in East Gippsland.  Surrounding them were the bushland covered slopes and patchwork of farming paddocks of the local countryside. It was a beautiful, private and tranquil setting.

Ann-Maree looked stunning in a long cream gown and John was proud and handsome standing alongside her.  Their happiness was palpable, and their faces were wreathed in smiles.  Exchanging vows in such an intimate setting made it very emotional and personal; the simplicity of their wedding with only family as witnesses, made it especially memorable, everything important to them was included; each other and the promises they were making.

Following the ceremony, champagne bubbles appeared beginning a wonderfully heartfelt celebration. Anne-Maree and John’s wedding encapsulated simplicity, honesty,love and devotion.  It was the first ‘lockdown’ wedding of the year, however as a direct result, it was an incredibly personal and beautiful event which I will remember always.

Celebrant:  Julie Butt

Venue: Their country home at Mt Taylor

Gurkeerat and Hardeep  – ‘La Riva’ Family Celebration

December 19, 2020

By Julie Butt, Marriage Celebrant

‘La Riva’, facing north on seven acres of manicured gardens, is perched high above the Mitchell River in Eagle Point and overlooks the Gippsland Lakes.  From the moment I entered this remarkable property I was treated to a warm and genuine family welcome.  

I knew this was to be a great summer wedding celebration.

Spending time in the garden before the ceremony mingling with this amazing family group gave me a greater understanding of the strong cultural connections and bonds of love between them.  We discussed the ceremony and the family were all keen to be actively involved in it, which they certainly were!!

When Hardeep finally emerged in a gown of softest rose she was simply stunning. Standing alongside her new husband Gurkeerat with the infinity pool, ancient gum trees and distant lakes vista as a backdrop made a perfect picture.

Showers of rose petals and enthusiastic applause punctuated the ceremony which was originally planned to be a traditional Sikh wedding in India; this had been postponed due to Covid19. Absent family members joined the wedding via FaceTime from India and enveloped Hardeep and Gurkeerat with their love.

It was a wonderful ceremony and I was overwhelmed by the kindness of these two families on the day. Sipping Indian tea for the first time in the shade of a sail on a mild summer afternoon was the perfect conclusion to a perfect wedding day.

Kind Words ……

‘Julie did an amazing job as our celebrant. From our first phone call and first meeting, nothing was too much trouble.  She made the entire process of writing our vows so easy and enjoyable and she did wait for a long time as we were late in starting our ceremony. 

Julie went above and beyond to make our ceremony that extra bit special and it was perfect. We really recommend Julie.

Thanks so much.’

Gurkeerat

Celebrant:  Julie Butt

Venue:        ‘La Riva’ 95 Mathiesons Road, Eagle Point

ANGE + ANDREW – Beneath the Branches

January 18, 2020

By Julie Butt, Marriage Celebrant

‘We are loved by an unending love.

Embraced, touched, soothed, and counselled,

We are loved by an unending love.’

From the first day I met Ange and Andrew in 2018 in a small country town, I felt so comfortable with them. They were genuine, devoted to one another and clearly incredibly happy together.  Each time I met with them or spoke to them I had a warm feeling inside that this was going to be a great wedding.  And it was ……………

A late afternoon summer breeze lifted Ange’s veil as she walked between the rows of olive trees, arm in arm with her parents, to meet and stand beside the love of her life. Brandy Creek Estate, a small vineyard and winery, was the setting for their wedding in the picturesque rolling hills of Drouin where they were surrounded by their loving family and friends.

Local Gippsland songbird, Emily Murdica, sang and played acoustic guitar before, during and after the ceremony. Her voice was beautiful and set the scene perfectly for such an incredible day.

Ange looked incredible in her strapless gown; she was radiant with joy and her smiles created those perfect happy moments which are simply unforgettable. From the moment Ange approached, Andrew’s gaze never left her.  Beneath the shelter of an ancient eucalyptus tree, they made their personal vows to one another; a few tears were shed by more than one person that day.  

Absolutely everyone from the large group attending were there to encourage and support Ange and Andrew. Cones of fresh rose petals were joyfully scattered amongst them after the ceremony. They had been handed around by the delightful pageboy and sweet flower-girl as Ange and Andrew signed their marriage certificates.

It was an incredibly beautiful day, just right for a ‘just right’ couple.  Congratulations Ange and Andrew xx

Celebrant:  Julie Butt

Photographer:  

Venue: Brandy Creek Estate

Florals:  

Vocalist: Emily Murdica

Kind Words ……

Thankyou Julie for being so amazing. 

We both feel extremely lucky to have had you recommended to us and for you being a part of our special day. 

Both Andrew and I were in awe after each meeting with you and spent the rest of the day reflecting on our journey so far, both of us in tears of happiness, which was super special.. 

Each meeting was so personal and special. 

Thank you so much for being so warm and friendly and for the facilitation of your role so expertly.................We appreciate you and will continue to recommend you to everyone we hear is getting married! 

-       Ange

Trish and Geoff – Sunset Wedding

October 20, 2020

By Julie Butt, Marriage Celebrant

Picture this, late afternoon on a sandy secluded beach overlooking the Gippsland Lakes, framed by ancient banksias and filled with late afternoon birdcalls.  An echidna dawdling past and a fresh breeze bringing in the salty scent of the not too distant Ninety Mile Beach.

That was the perfect setting for the micro wedding of Trish and Geoff at Wattle Point.  Surrounded by nature and accompanied by their best man, bridesmaid and chauffeur they sealed their vows with a sunset kiss.  

Capturing their sunset wedding through a camera lens was local photographer Rachel Holloway and she was a delight to work with.  Trish’s bouquet was an exquisite grouping of softest coloured cream, pink and palest yellow roses, blue-grey eucalyptus leaves and flower buds; it had been created by Benita Tscharke Floral Design.  Trish’s elegant and simple wedding dress made the perfect back drop for these restrained florals. (Yes, I love flowers!!) After the ceremony, champagne was poured into flutes atop a rustic picnic table covered in a white cloth and celebrations began. 

From the moment I first met with Trish and Geoff it seemed we were on exactly the same ‘wave- length’.  They asked me if I had suggestions for local locations for an intimate ‘micro-wedding’.  So, after careful thought I drove to nearby Wattle Point and snapped some pictures of a clearing between two huge old man banksias growing from the sandy shores overlooking the waters.  I sent this through as a suggestion to Trish and Incredibly Trish returned a photo, she had taken of exactly the same location.  This was definitely the right setting for their wedding day. 

Marrying such a devoted couple upon the sandy shores of the Gippsland Lakes at sunset reminded me yet again of what a wonderful profession I am in.  Sharing a wedding day is a privilege and I was honoured to be their celebrant.

Celebrant:  Julie Butt

Photographer:  Rachel Holloway

Venue: Wattle Point Reserve, Forge Creek

Florals:  Benita Tscharke Floral Design

Kind Words ……

‘My husband and I were wanting to get married during the peak Covid19 period, so we were after a relaxed celebrant to oversee the ceremony.  When we first met Julie (FaceTime) we knew she was the one for us.

Julie was able to put together a ceremony that suited our needs.  She went above and beyond to make our day special, and we had a few laughs along the way. Highly recommended.’

Trish

September 26, 2020

By Julie Butt, Marriage Celebrant

‘That the moment you have in your heart this extraordinary thing called love

and feel the depth, the delight, the ecstasy of it, 

you will discover that for you the world is transformed.’ – Krishnamurri

Jemah and Danny were married on a stormy Spring day at the secluded Wattle Point Waterfront Retreat; a bushland oasis complete with inquisitive resident kangaroos and its own private beach on the Gippsland Lakes.  Families of kangaroos (with joeys in their pouches) grazed quietly and were the only onlookers as Jemah walked amongst them (she almost appeared to float!!) down the green grassy slope, hand in hand with her blonde curled baby daughter towards Danny, the love of her life waiting handsome as ever by the water side.  She was radiant and an absolute vision with her long dark hair contrasting against the exquisite white lace of her elegant dress. Their wedding backdrop was the unbelievably dramatic sky above the Gippsland lakes and their love for one another was electric. 

From the time I first met this couple I felt as though I had known them forever, they were so natural, genuine and devoted to one another and I simply liked spending time with them.  Our first meeting was easy; they told me about their lives so far and dreams for the future.  I couldn’t wait to begin writing their love story.

Not surprisingly, it was a pleasure to plan and craft their ceremony. As their wedding date grew nearer plans had to be altered significantly due to social distancing regulations, however nothing was going to stop them being married on their planned date.  They had survived drought and bushfires in East Gippsland and to top it all off, a global pandemic. However, the solution was a dream elopement on the waterfront at Wattle Point.

As 4pm drew close on the cold, windy and wild wedding day, a window of sunshine appeared overhead breaking through the clouds and lighting up the water; this dramatic day set the scene perfectly. Because Jemah and Danny were so easy going and open I had been able to get to know them and was able to conduct their intimate ceremony with genuine love and understanding of who they are; it was truly a celebration of their love story.

Danny’s face as he watched his bride walking through the gum trees towards him with their tiny daughter was one of the many highlights of the day. Joy and happiness were radiating from Jemah and she looked incredibly beautiful.  To top this all off, (hard to believe it could get any better), their gorgeous little daughter was their only attendant in her tiny wedding shoes, floaty cream dress and floral crown (with a warm woolly cream jacket keeping out the wind). To see the love and joy of these two with their little girl in their arms took this wedding to another level.

Jemah and Danny’s celebration was a perfect combination of traditional and contemporary elements that reflected their romance, happiness, personalities and values. After their ceremony ended an enormous rainbow emerged behind them and then a second rainbow appeared framing the first.  It was the most dramatic, spectacular sky imaginable and echoed the strength of their love for one another.  With the highly capable and easy-going Morgan and Cooper of Morgan-Lee Photography, these moments and memories were captured.

Congratulations on your marriage Jemah and Danny and thank you for sharing this incredible image of your unforgettable day.

Kind Words ……

‘Julie went above and beyond for our little fam to make sure our wedding ceremony was special. Even though we couldn’t share it with our family and friends (thanks Covid) she still made sure it was perfect with what we had!

I would give Julie a 100000 out of 10. She was sooo hands on with us not to mention helping out with our little girl on the day whilst we got photos taken. I mentioned to my husband that I feel like Julie is family now. She is so loving and caring. Beautiful inside and out. We feel so lucky to have had her marry us. Not only was she our celebrant but we have made a life-long friend!

If anyone is looking for a good celebrant. You've found her. You won’t be disappointed!’

Jemah and Danny 

Celebrant:  Julie Butt

Photographer:  Morgan-Lee Photography

Venue: Waterfront Retreat at Wattle Point

Florals:  House of Bloom 

Decorating: Ella Del Wedding and Events

Right now, many couples are unsure of what the future will bring and are not confident to plan and book a large (in number of guests) dream wedding in the near future.

So much has changed since March this year; it is impossible to predict what will occur in regard to social gatherings and how long these restrictions will last. 

As a result, many couples are now opting for an immediate ‘micro wedding’ or an elopement which means they don’t cancel their wedding date but have a much smaller ceremony than originally planned.  Many are working on a follow up celebration event with a larger group of friends and family when social gathering restrictions are lifted, some of my couples are aiming for their first wedding anniversary!!! 

My recent experience is that most couples ultimately just want to get married to the person they love; therefore, they are willing to change their plans to include a far smaller guest list than they had previously imagined.  This means they can still be married on their planned date.  

I have noticed that most of my couples are not postponing their weddings; couples tell me that the current social gathering restrictions have actually made them realise that the most important part of their wedding day is not the guests, friends, family, food, dancing and reception.  It is the act of declaring their love and commitment to the person they love most in the world and becoming legally married.  This, of course does not mean they do not care for the other incredibly fantastic parts of a wedding, but they have realised that the actual ceremony is the ‘essence’ of the day and they are willing to forgo all the extras in order to be married.

So, if you are one of those couples who simply does not want to wait until larger numbers can attend your wedding it’s time to keep planning and keep dreaming; change your guest list and plan for a smaller wedding.  

A wonderful fact about a reduced guest list is it opens up greater scope for incredible natural and wild destinations in East Gippsland, which is where I am lucky enough to live.  If you are a Gippslander who is thinking that the bottom line is to marry your true love and not put it off any longer, here are some wonderful local places of natural beauty which would be brilliant settings for your ‘micro’ ceremony or elopement.  I would joyfully be your celebrant at any of these locations!!!

Metung is a picturesque lakeside village which has endless options for an outdoor ceremony, either in the bush overlooking the water or on the beach itself.

Lakes Entrance is located a short walk across a walking bridge from the Ninety Mile Beach, which is one of the longest and most beautiful stretches of pristine golden sand in the world

The Grange is only accessible by boat but would be the loveliest setting imaginable.  Boats can be chartered from Paynesville, Metung and Lakes Entrance.  A wedding on a chartered boat would be another option overlooking the Gippsland Lakes.

Kalimna has the most stunning elevated views across Lakes Entrance and would be incredible for a sunset wedding.

Nyerimilang Homestead (not far from Lakes Entrance) is a historic home surrounded by meandering gardens, bushland and pathways with elevated views of the Gippsland Lakes from many positions.  It is quiet and incredibly beautiful.

Paynesville is another charming village set on the Gippsland Lakes with a plethora of sweet spaces for a tiny intimate wedding from jetties to beaches.  You are bound to be accompanied by black swans in your wedding photographs. It’s just across the water from Raymond Island.

Raymond Island is unique and has many quiet and secluded lakeside spaces perfect for a wedding with the beautiful bush (complete with Victoria’s largest koala population), pebbled and sandy beaches, jetties and a choice of views from north, south, east and west of the island. This tiny island is accessible only by boat, from Paynesville, however you can take your car or travel as a pedestrian on the Raymond Island ferry which is available to the general public.

Tarra Bulga National Park (near Traralgon) is filled with lush gullies and towering tree ferns, where wooden walkways meander through cool temperate rainforest.  If you want a stunning wedding destination this is definitely worth considering.

The Mitchell River and Nicholson River wind their way throughout the East Gippsland regions and there are endless locations along them suitable for a perfect wedding and picnic to follow.  You might even choose a cycling wedding on the Gippsland Rail Trail!!

Eagle Point public jetty is quiet and the easterly views across the lake are superb. The Wildlife Reserve has many secluded and beautiful spaces within it.  From the elevated lookout at the Eagle Point bluff the view is stunning as is the riverside.  Ancient eucalypt trees abound there and would make a perfect setting for a wedding ceremony. 

Other brilliant destinations absolutely worth mentioning include the Mitchell River National Park, Dargo High Plains, beautiful Buchan, Wattle Point, Meerlieu and of course the spectacular high country.

Travelling along the Great Alpine Road from Bruthen to Mt Hotham are countless settings for a small country wedding ceremony.  This is one of Australia’s most scenic roads filled with breath taking scenery and unforgettable vistas.

One of the most stunning locations is the view from ‘Connor’s Hill’ which is a personal favourite of mine.  Of course, both the Kosciusko Lookout and the historic township of Omeo would also be wonderful getaway wedding destinations for East Gippsland couples.

To top off this list would be Mt Hotham and picturesque Dinner Plain where a wedding in the snow would be simply divine and unforgettable. So, pack a picnic and a bottle of bubbly with incredible local produce from East Gippsland and savour your wedding day as a tiny intimate group.  

Here are four simple ideas for a perfect East Gippsland wedding:

o   Picture a sunrise Ninety Mile Beach wedding or a morning ceremony on the sand at Lake Bunga followed by romantic brunch catered by Albert & Co in Lakes Entrance. 

o   Perhaps a late lunch picnic of local produce from Lindenow amidst rolling hills after a stunning morning wedding in the bush at the Mitchell River National Park or on the banks of the tranquil Mitchell River.

o   A micro mid-afternoon wedding at the Banksia Peninsula surrounded by the huge trunks of ancient banksias could be completed with valley views, cool-climate wines and sparkling champagne at Lightfoot and Son's in Calulu. Or you might like to pack these and enjoy them waterside.

o   It would be hard to beat an afternoon lakeside wedding at Paynesville along ‘Sunset Boulevard’ or on the boardwalk at sunset on Raymond Island with only a short distance of waterside walk or ferry ride to (Vue de Monde-pedigreed chef Mark Briggs in the kitchen) Sardine Eatery & Bar. 

If you want to plan your ‘getaway micro wedding’ with me as your celebrant, email or message me. If I’m available on your chosen date, I’d love to work with you to create the perfect ceremony to suit the two of you.  Let’s make memories together.

Photo credit Heather James

I have been asked many times why I decided to become a civil celebrant.  So, I thought I’d share my story with you.

As I live in the country, I spend many hours travelling between Melbourne and my home on the Gippsland Lakes in East Gippsland.  It was early December in 2017 and my husband and I were on the highway bound for Melbourne on A Friday night after work. 

The radio was full of the story that same sex marriage had finally been legalized.  It was such a joyous, momentous and long-awaited announcement.  My husband and I were discussing all the happiness that such a legal change could make on so many levels and for so many people; not just those wishing to be legally married. But for those who loved them such as their friends and families. (We can count ourselves into both of these categories)   

We could picture the proposals, acceptances, tears, heart swelling, plans and hopes such a decision brought to the future. 

I remember telling him how fantastic it would be to be part of such happiness and joy.  He casually said, “You’d be fantastic as a celebrant.  You love people, you’re warm and kind and great at public speaking.  Think of how much fun it would be to marry people.”

Well, actually I couldn’t stop thinking about it and wondered why it had never occurred to me before.  It occupied all of my thoughts.

The next day I jumped online and enrolled to study to become a civil celebrant.  It took many evening hours and weekend afternoons at my computer to push through the course as well as working full time.  Finally, after a year I was finally ready to seek approval from the Attorney General. 

And so, here I am. A civil celebrant at last.

I’m pretty happy this evening after planning my site at the 14th. Annual East Gippsland Wedding Expo for Sunday July 21 from 11am to 3pm. This will be my first show and I am wondering how to turn a 3m x 3m space into a welcoming and beautiful ‘other world’ which will showcase what to expect of me as a celebrant. Stay posted, I am having loads of amazing ideas. I hope to chat with you in person on the day.

I think that weddings in Winter are some of the most beautiful and intimate ceremonies. I will never forget a wonderful winter wedding where the bride Michelle was wrapped in the most gorgeous faux fur hooded cape. It was a bitterly cold day and she was just a little late in arriving. You could hear the wind and the rain smashing down on the tiny chapel roof. She entered through the double doors which were flung open and the rain and wind almost seemed to blow her down the aisle. It was dramatic and incredibly beautiful.

Credit: Alastair Butt

We had a marvellous meeting with Julie. She had so many great ideas for our wedding . We can’t wait to see our ideas on paper.