You’re here for the feels, the fun, and the unforgettable moments that make your wedding yours. A Heartfelt & Fun wedding is about connection, celebration, and joy—not stiff traditions or formalities. Whether you’re planning a laid-back ceremony in the Hunter Valley or a lively celebration on the Central Coast, the goal is to reflect your unique love story with a playful twist.

As a celebrant who loves nothing more than crafting ceremonies full of warmth and personality, I’ve got the insider tips to make your wedding day one for the books. Let’s dive in!

*Photographed at White Barn at Pokolbin by* *Larissa Cluff*

Step 1: Choose a Venue That Encourages Connection

Your venue sets the tone for your day, so pick a space that feels inviting, joyful, and true to your story.

The Springs, Central Coast: This modern-rustic venue is perfect for a relaxed yet stylish celebration. With sprawling greenery and plenty of indoor/outdoor options, it’s ideal for heartfelt speeches and carefree dancing under the stars.
Gracelands, Forresters Beach: A hidden gem on the Central Coast, Gracelands combines vintage charm with quirky character. It’s perfect for couples who want their day to feel intimate, fun, and full of personality.
White Barn at Pokolbin, Hunter Valley: The minimalist beauty of this venue makes it a blank canvas for your creativity. It’s ideal for a couple looking to infuse their day with heartfelt touches, surrounded by the stunning vineyards of the Hunter Valley.
Bimbadgen Palmers Lane, Hunter Valley: With breathtaking vineyard views and a relaxed vibe, Bimbadgen Palmers Lane is the ultimate spot for heartfelt moments and lively celebrations.

Pro Tip: Choose venues with plenty of open space to encourage mingling, laughter, and those spontaneous moments you’ll treasure forever.

*Photographed at White Barn at Pokolbin, Hunter Valley by* *Larissa Cluff*

Step 2: Craft a Ceremony Full of Personality

A Heartfelt & Fun ceremony isn’t about following a script—it’s about creating a moment that feels so you.

Write Your Own Vows: This is your chance to make your partner laugh, cry, and remember why they’re marrying you. Need help? I’ll guide you every step of the way!
Include Guest Participation: Lighten the mood by having guests involved. This might be with some fun surprises on who the witnesses are, or with an epic ceremony exit tune that makes everyone get up and dance with you.
The Right Celebrant: You’ll need someone who brings warmth, humour, and heart to your ceremony. (That’s me!) I specialise in making sure your guests laugh, cry, and leave feeling totally connected to your story.

*Photographed at Gracelands, Forresters Beach by* *Jacob Hughes Creative*

Step 3: Infuse Your Reception with Playful Energy

Your reception isn’t just the after-party to the ceremony, it’s the heart of the celebration where laughter, connection, and unforgettable moments come to life. Here’s how to make it feel like you.

Unexpected Entertainment: Surprise your guests with something that sparks joy. Think acoustic musicians wandering through the crowd during cocktail hour, or a magician performing close-up tricks at tables.
Interactive Bars: Swap traditional drink service for an espresso martini cart, a whisky tasting table, or a spritz station where guests can customize their perfect cocktail.
Personal Touches: Add playful elements like bespoke napkins with fun facts about you as a couple, or signature desserts inspired by your favorite date-night treats (hello, mini churros!).
Games with a Twist: Give lawn games a wedded touch: think stylish croquet sets, a life-size Connect Four painted in chic tones, or a custom trivia game that lets your guests test their knowledge of your love story.

Step 4: Prioritise Candid Moments

Heartfelt weddings are all about capturing the real, unfiltered moments.

*Photographed at Gracelands, Forresters Beach by* *Kendell Tyne Photography*

Hire a Storyteller Styled Photographer: You’ll want a photographer who excels at capturing emotion—those belly laughs, happy tears, and tight hugs that make your wedding unforgettable.
Guest-Centric Shots: Ask your photographer to focus on your guests, too. From grandma tearing up during the vows to your best friend’s ridiculous dance moves, these are the moments you’ll want to look back on.
Video Highlights: A highlight reel of the big day lets you relive every laugh and tear, either from a content creator or through your photo/video team.

Step 5: Keep the Vibes Light and Playful

Your day doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to be perfect for you.

Embrace Imperfections: The cake could topple, and it’ll still be a great story. Roll with it, and your guests will too!
Personalise Everything: From quirky table names to handwritten notes for your guests, it’s the little touches that make your wedding uniquely yours.
Lean on Your Vendors: A trusted team of professionals, including a celebrant who’s got your back, will make your day feel effortless so you can focus on the fun.