Page 39 - Port Douglas Magazine 28

#storiesofromance

Romance
STORIES OF

NADIA & BECKS

This beach wedding saw Nadia and Becks tie the knot
underneath the palms of the place they call home

WORDS by Phoebe Demarte
andy feet, handmade origami bouquets and a three-tiered featuring some spectacular vintage floral attire, and later all the
cake of assorted cheese - these Port Douglas locals really did reception shenanigans. The girls told us: “She made us feel super
Sturn tradition on its head and create a truly unique day! comfortable … we didn’t even realise that she was there.”
Nadia and Becks met back in 2011 in New Zealand while working The party really started once they arrived at the famous Sugar
in a restaurant together, Nadia back-packing and Becks studying. Wharf. This quintessential heritage listed building overlooking
The pair quickly hit it off, but the relationship really started to the ocean is undoubtedly one of the best venues you will find.
blossom as they bonded over cheap beer and late-night karaoke. The guests were lucky enough to watch the boats sailing in while
Apparently, it was Becks’ Whitney Houston rendition that sealed enjoying delicious canapes catered by Port Douglas Catering and
the deal for Nadia. Events. At the same time they were relishing the soulful vocals of
The couple moved to Port Douglas in 2013 seeking the warmer Lady Valiant, a local blues/folk inspired band adored by for their
climate and although they still enjoy travelling the world, Port raw performances. Later the guests enjoyed a delicious sit-down
Douglas is the place they call home. meal with a different coloured shot at each seat to create the feel
of a rainbow. Little did the guests know, as they swigged the
Both Nadia and Becks wanted to propose and be proposed to. beverage down during the toast, that it was pure vodka with food
Nadia managed to pop the question first while enjoying a beautiful colouring. Now that is one way to get the crowd dancing!
sunrise at Rex lookout. A few months later Becks returned the
proposal and gave Nadia an engagement ring while flying over Low Nadia and Becks chose an unconventional wedding cake, a three
Isles in a helicopter on her 30th birthday. Wow! tiered ‘cake’ made of blue, brie and red Leicester cheddar wheels.
When Nadia and Becks initially started to plan their dream day, They told us: “The two French guests could be found there for
hours on end!”
same sex marriage had not yet been legalised in Australia. They
knew they wanted a celebration here in Port Douglas regardless In the months leading up to the wedding, Nadia and Becks had sent
and the iconic Sugar Wharf was booked for 1 August 2018. They out a short questionnaire to all their guests, one of the questions
intended to head back to New Zealand afterwards to complete the being, ‘what song will get you on the dance floor?’ With 80
legalities, but while Nadia and Becks were holidaying overseas, guests, this naturally created the dance floor mix for the after-
they heard the news that Australia had voted yes! dinner dancing. Breaking tradition, Nadia and Becks opted not to
do ‘a first dance’ but instead danced to the last song of the night, a
The girls wanted a relaxed, no suit necessary vibe to the day and song which was close to their hearts and held a significant meaning
Bec Mclean from Dragonfly Weddings created that perfect feel: … Macklemore with ‘Same Love’.
“It’s as if she was born to plan events,” Becks explained. “Bec
organised people all day - we didn’t have to think about anything Nadia and Becks could not tell me the best part of their day. They
but the sheer enjoyment of it all.” said it had been too difficult to pick a highlight - the whole day had
The ceremony was held under the palm trees on Four Mile Beach. been absolutely perfect.
Both girls kicked off their matching thongs and walked down the The pair have not yet honeymooned, instead spending the few
aisle, bare foot, meeting in the middle. They carried their home- weeks off around the wedding with their overseas guests and
made Origami flowers made from pages of an atlas to reflect showing them what this little slice of paradise has to offer. Nadia
their united passion for travel and there, surrounded by family said: “We chartered a boat for a sunset cruise with everybody and
and friends, Becks and Nadia tied the knot. Celebrant Stephanie another one for a reef day at Undine Cay.” With so many activities
Milne conducted the ceremony and both Nadia and Becks said that available in Port Douglas there really is something for everyone,
she was fantastic adding: “She really tailored the ceremony to our so one of their tips to anyone thinking of sealing the deal in
personalities.” Port Douglas was to: “Utilise the amazing experiences that this
Alison from Catseye Production captured all the special region has to offer!” The girls are planning a trip to the US later
in the year, as they wanted something totally different to the town
moments on the day - natural shots of the newlyweds strolling they are lucky enough to call home …. so Vegas was the chosen
the picturesque beach, fun shots with the couple’s bridal party,
destination. Watch Out!

CEREMONY: Four Mile Beach, Port Douglas
RECEPTION: The Sugar Wharf
CATERING: Port Douglas Catering & Events
WEDDING PLANNER: Bec McLean - Dragonfly Weddings
FLOWERS: Handmade by the girls
PHOTOGRAPHY: Catseye Productions
CELEBRANT: Stephanie Milne

PORT DOUGLAS MAGAZINE 39