Melissa and Ben’s celebrations focused on what matters – each other and the warmth of close family and friends. Its simplicity was its charm.

Our couple prepared together, at their new home. Ben was helped by Melissa, who straightened his boutonniere and attached his cuff links. Ben made everyone hot cups of tea. Their dog took part also, suited-up in his own doggy tuxedo!

Melissa wore a unique wedding dress – forget traditional white – her dress was alive with floral colours which were beautifully complimented by her native Australian bouquet. Rather than being led down the aisle and ‘given away’, Mel and Ben met each other at the entry of Elkington Park, in Balmain, and walked down the isle together, as equals.

Their ceremony spoke for more than Mel and Ben’s love, with civil celebrant Pauline Fawkner acknowledging traditional Aboriginal owners and Ben and Melissa’s hope for marriage to become accessible to all.

For location photos we visited Dawn Fraser Swimming Pool and Ballast Point Park, Balmain.

Vendor shout outs