Christie and Gavin, Kangaroo Island Elopement

Christie and Gavin, Kangaroo Island Elopement

Christie and Gavin

Kangaroo Island Real Wedding Elopement 

KISS Wedding Package - Simple and Sweet Elopement

Wedding & Elopement Packages

Kangaroo Island, with its breathtaking natural beauty and serene landscapes

The perfect backdrop for couples seeking an intimate and meaningful wedding experience. In this blog post, we’ll take you on a journey to witness the love story of Christie and Gavin, a couple who chose simplicity and authenticity for their special day. Deb, their celebrant, shares her insights and the beautiful adaptation of a heartfelt poem that encapsulated their deep love.

 

Kangaroo Island Real Wedding

Wild Side Ocean Retreat

The Couple’s Vision: Simple and Meaningful

Christie and Gavin knew from the start that their wedding should reflect their genuine love for each other without unnecessary extravagance. They didn’t want to follow traditional norms but instead desired a ceremony that held deep meaning for them.

Deb, their wise celebrant, understood this vision perfectly. She believed that love should be at the forefront of the ceremony, and anything that didn’t resonate with the couple’s feelings had no place in their special day. As Deb puts it, “Christie and Gavin’s ceremony was very simple as they didn’t want unnecessary fluff that didn’t mean anything to them.”

 

Kangaroo Island Real Wedding

Kangaroo Island Elopement real wedding

 

The Poem That Spoke Their Hearts

The poem Christie chose, an adaptation of “A Reminder for the One I Love” by Rachyl Taylor, beautifully captured the essence of Christie and Gavin’s love story. By altering some words to make it contextually relevant, Deb ensured that every word spoken during the ceremony held deep significance for the couple.

 

The Adapted Poem: A Love So True

“We say ‘I love you’ just about every day,

Sometimes the words are whispered as we fall asleep at night; sometimes they’re sung up the stairs or accompanied by a quick kiss as we are in the middle of something.

The words are always there, but sometimes we forget to think about how much they really mean.

Every time you hear each other say those three little words,

I want you to remember that they’re coming from the bottom of their heart.

I want you to remember that they love you for everything you are, and for everything they are with you.

I want you to remember that you’re the best person they have ever known, and they feel so lucky to have you in their life.

I want you to remember that true love is forever, and there is no love truer than the love you feel for each other.

I want you to remember that you’re the most wonderful thing that has ever happened to each other, your happy ending, your dream come true, your friend, and your love all wrapped up in one.”

Deborah Lilley CMC

Christie and Gavin’s KISS Celebrant

Kangaroo Island Wedding Scenic Beauty

A Word from Our Photographer Glenn: Capturing Moments of Love and Authenticity

In the world of weddings, where emotions run high and love takes center stage, the role of a photographer is to freeze those moments in time, allowing them to be cherished forever. For Christie and Gavin’s Kangaroo Island wedding, it was an absolute pleasure and privilege to be their chosen photographer.

As a photographer, I’ve been fortunate to witness countless love stories, each one unique and special in its own way. Yet, Christie and Gavin’s wedding was something truly extraordinary. Their commitment to keeping things simple and authentic resonated deeply with me, and it made my job even more enjoyable.

 

Embracing the Authenticity of Kangaroo Island

Kangaroo Island provided the most picturesque setting for this special day. Its unspoiled landscapes & pristine beaches, offered a captivating backdrop for capturing the couple’s genuine love and connection.

From the moment I arrived, I could sense the intimacy and warmth that Christie and Gavin had cultivated. It was evident in the smiles they exchanged, the tender moments they shared, and the way they looked into each other’s eyes. It’s these unscripted, unposed moments that I live for as a photographer.

Kangaroo Island Elopement
Wedding Rings Exchange Ceremony

While traditional wedding photography has its place, there’s something truly magical about candid shots that reveal the raw, unfiltered emotions of the day. For Christie and Gavin, I made it a point to capture these moments—the stolen glances, the heartfelt laughter, and the tearful exchanges between them and their loved ones.

As Deb, beautifully put it, “true love is forever.” My goal was to ensure that every photograph I took would serve as a lasting testament to this eternal love, not just for Christie and Gavin but for all those who were fortunate enough to witness their special day.

A Timeless Collection of Memories

In curating the collection of photographs from this Kangaroo Island wedding, my aim was to create a visual story that would transport anyone who views it back to that day, allowing them to relive the love and authenticity that filled the air. Whether it’s the gentle sea breeze ruffling Christie’s veil or the golden hues of the sunset behind the newlyweds, each image is a testament to the beauty of this special day.

 

Wild Side Ocean Retreat, Kangaroo Island

Wild Side Ocean Retreat

Off the beaten track at Kangaroo Island’s eastern end, Wild Side Ocean Retreat accommodation is an amazing holiday destination that is perched high on the dunes overlooking Mouth Flat Beach and the entrance to Willson River.

The eco-friendly holiday accommodation is the ultimate retreat; a place of natural beauty, indulgence, and solitude, with nothing but ocean between you and Antarctica. Switch off from civilisation, watch mother nature put on a show, and enjoy the comforts of this one-of-a-kind house. We promise an unforgettable KI stay.

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Say ‘I do’ to intimate weddings with our KISS package – Micro weddings and elopement specialists

Copyright © 2025 Divi. All Rights Reserved.

Navigating Wedding Anxiety Together

Navigating Wedding Anxiety Together

Tips for Couples Considering Elopement or Micro Weddings

Getting married is an exciting milestone in any couple’s life, but it can also bring about a fair share of anxiety and stress. From planning the perfect wedding to adjusting to the idea of spending a lifetime together, these emotions are entirely normal. The key is to face this anxiety as a team and use it as an opportunity to strengthen your bond. In this blog, we’ll explore some strategies to help you and your partner manage wedding-related anxiety, whether you’re planning a traditional wedding, eloping, or opting for a micro wedding.

Open and Honest Communication:

The foundation of any healthy relationship is communication. Make sure you and your partner create a safe space to discuss your anxieties, fears, and expectations about the wedding. Being open and honest with each other will not only reduce wedding anxiety but also build trust and understanding.

Set Realistic Expectations:

It’s easy to get caught up in the grandeur of weddings, but remember that it’s just one day in the grander scheme of your life together. Discuss your budget and priorities, and make sure your wedding plans align with your values and long-term goals. Setting realistic expectations can help ease financial stress and reduce wedding anxiety.

Consider Elopement or Micro Weddings:

If the idea of a large, traditional wedding is causing excessive stress and wedding anxiety, consider the alternatives. Elopements and micro weddings have become increasingly popular choices for couples who want an intimate, stress-free celebration. They can be more budget-friendly and less overwhelming, allowing you to focus on the essence of your commitment to each other.

Self-Care and Stress Management:

Whether you choose a traditional wedding, elopement, or micro wedding, both you and your partner should prioritize self-care to manage wedding anxiety effectively. Encourage each other to engage in activities you find relaxing and stress-reducing. A calm mind and a healthy body will help you approach wedding preparations with more clarity.

Remember the “Why”:

When wedding anxiety starts creeping in, take a step back and remind yourselves why you’re getting married in the first place. Reconnect with the love, commitment, and excitement you have for each other. Keep your focus on the bigger picture, which is building a life together, rather than obsessing over wedding details.

Pre-Marital Counseling:

Consider pre-marital counseling or therapy sessions with a qualified therapist. These professionals can help you explore any underlying fears or concerns and provide you with tools to strengthen your relationship and cope with wedding anxiety effectively.

Create a Support System:

Lean on your friends and family for support. They can offer guidance, lend a listening ear, and even help with wedding-related tasks. Surrounding yourselves with a support system can make the journey less stressful, regardless of the wedding style you choose.

Take Breaks:

It’s okay to take breaks from wedding planning. Don’t let it consume your entire life. Plan date nights or weekends where wedding talk is off-limits. This will allow you to reconnect as a couple without the pressure of wedding anxiety from planning.

Accept Imperfections:

Perfectionism can fuel wedding anxiety. Remember that not everything will go exactly as planned, and that’s okay. Embrace imperfections and cherish the unique moments that happen spontaneously during your wedding day, whether it’s an elopement on a remote mountaintop or an intimate micro wedding in your backyard.

Seek Professional Help When Needed:

If wedding anxiety becomes overwhelming and starts affecting your mental health, don’t hesitate to contact your doctor or healthcare provider for help and tips. They can provide guidance, resources, and potentially recommend therapies or medications to manage anxiety effectively.

Wedding anxiety is a common experience for couples, but it doesn’t have to overshadow the joy of your special day. By communicating openly, setting realistic expectations, and prioritizing self-care and support, you and your partner can navigate this journey together with love and resilience, whether you choose a traditional wedding, elopement, or micro wedding. Remember, your wedding is just the beginning of a beautiful adventure as a married couple, so enjoy the ride!

Marion Hotel’s Top 5 Unique Wedding Ideas: Unforgettable Celebrations Await!

Marion Hotel’s Top 5 Unique Wedding Ideas: Unforgettable Celebrations Await!

Weddings are a magical celebration of love, and the Marion Hotel is here to make your special day unforgettable.

Gone are the days of traditional ceremonies in a chapel or ballroom;  Marion Hotel KISS Package top 5 unique wedding ideas, unique and adventurous wedding ideas to turn your dreams into reality. Whether you prefer an intimate affair or a surprise-filled extravaganza, these ideas will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on you and your guests.

top 5 unique wedding ideas

1) Marion Hotel & Totoka Urban Farm Adventure

If you’re a couple with a taste for adventure, this idea will surely captivate you. Invite your guests to the Marion Hotel, where they will embark on a secret bus ride to the picturesque Totoka Urban Farm, just a short 20-minute drive away. Surrounded by lush greenery and the farm’s rustic charm, exchange vows in an enchanting ceremony. Afterward, return to the Marion Hotel for a memorable reception filled with drinks, food, and joyful celebrations. For the ultimate experience, your guests can even stay the night at the hotel, making it a weekend they’ll cherish forever.

top 5 unique wedding ideas

2) Intimate Ceremony & Lunch in "The Study"

Sometimes, the most heartfelt moments are shared with the closest of family and friends. Host an intimate ceremony and lunch in the cozy ambiance of “The Library” at the Marion Hotel. Surrounded by your dearest loved ones, exchange vows in a warm and inviting atmosphere, followed by a delightful lunch to celebrate the start of your new chapter together.

top 5 unique wedding ideas

3) Secret Wedding at a KISS Packages Venue:

For the more adventurous souls who love surprises, why not host a secret wedding at one of KISS Packages other venues or locations? This hidden celebration will remain unknown to your guests, leaving them pleasantly shocked when you reveal the exciting news during your engagement party at Marion Hotel. It’s a unique way to add an element of mystery and excitement to your special day.

Photo above: Magpie Springs Vineyard | Elopement Ceremony 

Marion hotel weddings top 5 unique wedding ideas

4) Surprise Twist Engagement Party turned Wedding:

Why wait for the perfect moment to say “I do”? Throw an engagement party that your friends and family will remember forever. Imagine their surprise when, amidst the festivities, you reveal that the party is actually your wedding day! The Marion Hotel can help you plan this remarkable surprise, turning your engagement celebration into an unforgettable union of love and joy.

top 5 unique wedding ideas

5) Elope to the Treetops Room:

Picture this – just the two of you, the weekend away in the Marion Hotel’s Tree Top Room. That offers the perfect simple backdrop for an intimate elopement ceremony or just the simple legals only. Enjoy the luxury of room service, and to make it official, the hotel will provide a witness. It’s a romantic and stress-free way to start your journey as a married couple, surrounded by nature’s serenity.

Conclusion:

Your wedding day should reflect your unique love story and personalities. With these top 5 unique wedding ideas from the Marion Hotel, you can create a celebration that stands out from the rest and becomes a cherished memory for a lifetime. Whether it’s a private elopement in the Tree Top Room or a surprise-filled engagement party turned wedding, the Marion Hotel offers the perfect setting for your dream wedding. Embrace the adventure, make it extraordinary, and let the Marion Hotel turn your special day into an unforgettable experience.

Intimate Elopement Photography Packages Across Australia

Intimate Elopement Photography Packages Across Australia

Looking for the perfect location to elope in Australia? Our comprehensive guide covers the top 20 locations in every state of Australia, so you can find the perfect spot to say “I do”. From stunning beaches to lush gardens and picturesque cityscapes, we have you covered. Our experienced and professional photographers are Adelaide-based, but we are expanding throughout Australia and use the KISS method to ensure that your special day is captured beautifully. Contact us today to book your intimate elopement photography package and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Dry Hire Wedding Venues: Complete Control and Creative Freedom for Your Dream Wedding

Dry Hire Wedding Venues: Complete Control and Creative Freedom for Your Dream Wedding

If you're looking to plan your own wedding, you may have come across the term "dry hire wedding venue". This type of venue rental allows you to have complete control over the space and create a DIY wedding that reflects your unique style and vision. In simple terms, a...

Michaela made the ceremony planning and paperwork a breeze, even all the way from Canada! From our initial video chats to meeting her in person once we arrived, she made it fun! Providing samples and examples for our ceremony and helping us tailor it to our taste. It was everything we could have dreamed of!

MARRIED COUPLE – Isabelle & Daniel

Michaela was an absolute treasure! Michaela was so easy to work with and understanding of what we wanted on our special day. The communication in the lead up to our wedding day was perfect and she was happy to match our schedules for meetings. Michaela performed so well on the day, being a ray of sunshine

Emily & Tam

Blow Hole Beach Elopement Celebrant Photography KISS Package

Blow Hole Beach Elopement Celebrant Photography KISS Package

Blow Hole Beach Elopement

Blow Hole Beach Elopements

This is a hidden gem located in the Deep Creek Conservation Park in South Australia. This stunning beach boasts crystal clear waters, pristine white sand, and an incredible natural blowhole, making it a perfect destination for a secluded and intimate elopement.

At Blow Hole Beach, you can tie the knot with the ocean as your backdrop and the sound of waves crashing against the shore as your music. And with the KISS PACKAGE, you can make your elopement dreams a reality without breaking the bank.

The KISS PACKAGE includes everything you need for a simple yet beautiful elopement ceremony. It comes with a professional celebrant who will work with you to create a personalized ceremony that reflects your love story and values. You’ll also get a professional photographer who will capture your special day and provide you with a stunning collection of images to cherish for a lifetime.

One of the best things about Blow Hole Beach is that it is only accessible via 4WD. This means that you can have a private and intimate ceremony without any interruptions from other beachgoers. The KISS PACKAGE also includes 4WD access to the 2nd carpark, making it easy to get to the beach and set up for your ceremony.

At Blow Hole Beach, you can exchange vows with the sound of the waves and the gentle sea breeze as your witness. You can stroll along the beach hand in hand, take a dip in the crystal clear waters, or simply sit and enjoy the stunning views. Whatever you choose to do, you’re sure to have a magical and unforgettable experience.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a stunning and secluded location for your elopement, Blow Hole Beach is the perfect choice. And with the KISS PACKAGE, you can have a beautiful and intimate ceremony without any stress or hassle. So why wait? Contact us today to start planning your dream elopement at Blow Hole Beach.

Nicola & Craig

blow hole beach – deep creek, South Australia 

 

Congratulations to Nicola and Craig on their beautiful elopement at Blow Hole Beach in Deep Creek, South Australia! The couple exchanged their vows on this secluded and pristine beach, surrounded by stunning ocean views and the natural blowhole. Nicola and Craig were joined by their two daughters and parents for an intimate and unforgettable ceremony.

The couple stayed locally at a cozy bed & breakfast, adding to the romantic and intimate feel of their elopement. With the help of our Celebrant and Photography packages, Nicola and Craig were able to plan a personalized ceremony that perfectly captured their love and commitment to each other.

We feel honoured to have been a part of this special day, and we wish Nicola and Craig a lifetime of love and happiness. Thank you for choosing Blow Hole Beach as your elopement destination and for allowing us to be a part of your beautiful love story.

 

 
 

Elopement Photography Package

Say ‘I do’ to intimate weddings with our KISS package – Micro weddings and elopement specialists

Copyright © 2025 Divi. All Rights Reserved.

How to Include Your Loved Ones in Your Micro Wedding or Elopement

How to Include Your Loved Ones in Your Micro Wedding or Elopement

Who will you invite? or not

The trend of micro weddings and elopements has gained significant momentum

Especially in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. These intimate ceremonies prioritise the essence of a couple’s love, steering away from the complexities and expenses associated with large weddings.

While some opt for complete privacy, others desire to involve their nearest and dearest. Here are valuable tips on seamlessly incorporating loved ones into your micro wedding or elopement:

  1. Mindful Guest List Selection: In the realm of micro weddings, a crucial initial step is discerning who to invite. With a limited guest count, prioritize those closest to you and your partner – individuals who have played significant roles in your relationship and whom you wish to share this profound day with.
  2. Transparent Communication of Plans: Once the guest list is curated, articulate your ceremony plans clearly. Communicate whether it will adhere to traditional wedding norms or adopt a more casual atmosphere. Provide insights into whether there will be a reception or dinner, allowing loved ones to prepare accordingly.
  3. Involvement in Planning: While certain elements may be kept as surprises, involving loved ones in the planning process fosters a sense of inclusion. Seek their input on aspects like venue selection, menu choices, or musical preferences. Additionally, invite them to contribute to DIY projects, such as creating centrepieces or decorations.
  4. Participation in the Ceremony: There are numerous ways to integrate loved ones into the micro wedding or elopement ceremony itself. Consider asking a close friend or family member to officiate, or involve them in readings or speeches. You might also invite them to be witnesses or sign the marriage certificate, elevating their role in the celebration.
  5. Capture Moments for Sharing: Even if physical attendance isn’t possible, include loved ones by documenting the day through photos and videos. Enlist a photographer or videographer to capture the essence of the occasion, and share these visual memories with your loved ones, allowing them to feel connected to the celebration.

In conclusion,

the inclusion of loved ones in your micro wedding or elopement enriches the significance of the day. By thoughtfully curating your guest list, transparently communicating your plans, involving them in the planning process, incorporating them into the ceremony, and sharing visual content afterwards, you can ensure your loved ones feel valued and engaged on this special occasion.

Micro weddings and elopements have been on the rise in recent years, and even more so in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. These intimate ceremonies allow couples to focus on what truly matters – their love for one another – without the stress and expense of a large wedding. However, while some couples may choose to keep their micro wedding or elopement completely private, others may want to include their closest loved ones. Here are some tips on how to include your loved ones in your micro wedding or elopement:

  1. Consider your guest list carefully

The first step to including loved ones in your micro wedding or elopement is to decide who you want to invite. With such a small ceremony, you may have to be selective about who you include. Think about the people who are closest to you and your partner, those who have been there for you throughout your relationship, and those who you want to share this special day with.

  1. Be clear about your plans

Once you have decided who you want to invite, it’s important to be clear about your plans for the ceremony. Will it be a traditional wedding ceremony, or something more casual? Will there be a reception or a dinner afterwards? Let your loved ones know what to expect, so they can plan accordingly.

  1. Involve them in the planning process

While you may want to keep some aspects of your micro wedding or elopement a surprise, involving your loved ones in the planning process can make them feel more included. You could ask for their input on things like the venue, the menu, or the music, or you could invite them to help with DIY projects like making centerpieces or decorations.

  1. Include them in the ceremony

There are many ways to include loved ones in your micro wedding or elopement ceremony. You could ask a close friend or family member to officiate the ceremony, or you could ask them to do a reading or give a speech. You could also ask them to be your witness or sign the marriage certificate.

  1. Take photos and videos to share

Even if your loved ones aren’t able to attend your micro wedding or elopement in person, you can still include them by sharing photos and videos afterwards. Hire a photographer or videographer to capture the day, and share the images with your loved ones so they can feel like they were a part of the celebration.

In conclusion, including loved ones in your micro wedding or elopement can make the day even more special. By carefully considering your guest list, being clear about your plans, involving them in the planning process, including them in the ceremony, and sharing photos and videos afterwards, you can ensure that your loved ones feel included and appreciated on your special day.

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