AMY + DECLAN

In the heart of Geelong a love story blossomed between Amy and Declan, two souls whose paths had crossed many times before fate finally intervened. Their journey from acquaintances to engaged lovebirds is one that is bound to warm your heart.

Amy and Declan’s connection began through their older siblings who were housemates for six years. The idea of them dating was a running joke among their families, a whimsical notion that, at first, they didn’t take too seriously. However, their attraction to each other was undeniable and at every house party and event they found themselves engrossed in conversations that lasted for hours.

Then came the pivotal moment when Declan decided to seize the day. He asked Amy out to lunch, taking the first step towards a future together. Little did they know that this lunch date would mark the beginning of a beautiful chapter in their lives.

Their engagement, in January 2023, was a truly unforgettable affair. Declan planned a ‘Birthday Day’ that not only celebrated Amy’s birthday but also their love story. It was a day filled with sentimental stops at meaningful places in Geelong – from their first date café for breakfast to a surprise lunch with close friends. The day continued with dinner and a movie and culminated in a romantic moment watching the sunset at Amy’s favourite lookout spot in Ceres, where a beautifully arranged bench awaited her with lights, blankets, flowers, champagne, strawberries and even her brother to photograph the magical moment.

Surprisingly, the engagement itself wasn’t a surprise for the couple as they had been discussing and planning for it for a year prior. They had already made significant preparations, from Amy finding her dream dress to booking their reception venue and finalising the guest list. Their decision to plan well in advance allowed them to create the wedding they truly wanted, without the rush and stress of a short engagement.

Their wedding was divided into two heartfelt events – a ceremony with 110 guests followed by an afternoon tea and a more intimate reception with 57 close friends and family. The choice of a smaller guest list for the reception allowed them to celebrate their special day at ALMA upstairs, a venue that held sentimental value for them. Simultaneously, the afternoon tea after the ceremony enabled them to share the joy of their wedding with a wider circle of friends and church community members.