02 Nov
Weddings

The Grooms Entrance: The Attention it Deserves

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The Grooms Entrance: The Attention it Deserves

So, it’s about time that we give the Grooms Entrance the attention that it deserves.

After all, a wedding is a celebration for both of you, and your entrance should totally reflect that.

Picture this as a groom, you and your mates making your way down the aisle, with cheers and applause surrounding you. 

It’s fun, its candid, it makes for a great photo, and I believe that it should be happening more often.

Do not worry, when we catch up to plan your wedding I will remind you of all the incredible reasons why I think that you should consider doing this, although for now, enjoy these photos from Amy and Matts wedding.

They took it one step further, and Matt invited all of his family along to walk down the aisle with him. 

It was emotional, it was fun and he got to walk in, with his son, his nan and his favourite sister in law (myself) by his side (as well as the rest of the fam of course). 

02 Nov
Weddings

Kirstin and Jackson: The Surprise Elopement 

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Kirstin and Jackson: The Surprise Elopement 

On the 22.2.22, I was gearing up to marry my fourth couple for the day.

After all, why wouldn’t you get married on a once in a lifetime date? Plus, it meant that Jackson would never forget an anniversary again. Happy wife, happy life. 

If you are contemplating surprising your family and friends with a wedding, this will certainly help you come to the best conclusion. 

JUST DO IT!

Kirstin and Jackson had decided not to tell a soul that they had planned to tie the knot in Boat Harbour, Port Stephens.

Instead, they told their parents, grandparents, and siblings that they were having a family photoshoot and invited them along to join.

As they pulled up in the distance, we had front row seats to watch their reactions as they pieced together what was about to unfold. 

Sometimes the most powerful moments are captured in images, each frame telling a story from that day.

They speak louder than words ever could, so sit back and enjoy the wonderful work from yours truly, Alexandria Warden Photography. 

You can thank me all later!

28 Jun
Weddings

Ebony and Jacob: A Wedding of Tradition

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Ebony and Jacob: A Wedding of Tradition and Coming Together 

I can vividly recall the moment, when my phone rang, and an unknown number flashed on the screen of my car.

At the time, I was parked atop the highest point of Boat Harbour, my local town. 

To the left, the vast expanse of the ocean stretched out before me, and straight ahead, as far as my eyes could reach, there were endless trees.

Honestly, I can’t quite remember why I found myself up there on that particular day. Perhaps it was fate, setting the scene for the extraordinary conversation that would unfold in the next 15 minutes. 

On the other end of the line, was Ebony and she had reached out to inquire about my services as a celebrant.

She began explaining, with so much excitement, that her and her partner Jacob were very passionate about having a Sand Smoking Ceremony at their wedding. 

Ebony was wanting to know if this is something that I would be open to.

I instantly had tears in my eyes and a full body of goosebumps. 

OF COURSE, I WAS INVESTED!

I had been eagerly anticipating the day when one of my couples would propose incorporating an Indigenous Smoking Ceremony to their ceremony. 

Ebony’s indigenous heritage had a profound significance in her life. It was a strong piece of her identity that carried immeasurable weight and meaning. 

It was with this deep-rooted bond that bought Justin, a wise and revered Aboriginal elder, into their sacred circle. 

At the commencement of the ceremony, I had the honour of introducing Justin to the gathered guests. 

He then explained to everyone, the meaning and importance of all of us coming together as one. As a united front. 

He extended the invitation for all to partake in a traditional smoking ceremony. 

A smoking ceremony is a sacred ritual deeply ingrained in Aboriginal culture. It is a symbolic act of cleansing, a means of purifying the surroundings and welcoming positive energies. A selection of native plants, often including eucalyptus leaves, are gently set ablaze, allowing the fragrant smoke to rise and envelop those present. This cleansing ritual serves as a bridge between the physical and spiritual realms, a moment of unity with the land and its ancient custodians. 

In that sacred moment, Ebony and Jacob’s union was not only witnessed by those lucky enough to be present, but also by the land, the ancestors, and the spirits that watched over them.

The 22nd of April, 2023 will be etched into my heart for a very long time.