SCOTT + SONJA

WORDS by Rosie Wang

Scott and Sonja's story is one of serendipity, shared passions, and a love for extraordinary places. Scott was born in the rugged outback of New South Wales, growing up on a 150,000-acre sheep and cattle station, with a career now as a Senior Project Manager for commercial development and construction projects. Sonja, on the other hand, was born in the picturesque "middle of the Alps" in Innsbruck, Austria, where her creative spirit flourished, leading her to establish her own graphic design business.

The two met on Tinder, and their first date was at L'Unico in Trinity Beach. With "L'Unico" meaning "the only one" in Italian, the name proved prophetic as their connection ignited, and they soon realised they had found their match.

Love has a funny way of sneaking up on you, even when you're decked out in a bright red-and-yellow uniform scanning for rip currents. For Scott and Sonja, two dedicated patrolling members at Ellis Beach Surf Life Saving Club, their journey from rescuers to romantic partners took a charming turn on September 9, 2023. After a long day of patrolling, Scott decided it was time to make his own big splash.

As the sun dipped over the horizon, he led Sonja on a casual stroll along the shoreline, with a Tiffany & Co. ring tucked secretly in his pocket, Scott then dropping to one knee - not to rescue someone, but to propose to the woman who had become his ultimate lifeline. The beach, where they had spent countless hours supporting each other through rescues and drills, became the perfect setting to mark the start of their forever.

From their distant corners of the world, the couple's journey together led them to the idyllic beaches of Far North Queensland. Their mutual love for the tropics and coastal lifestyle has made FNQ their home for many years and made Port Douglas a natural choice for their wedding, a place where Scott had lived for six years. Now, the couple shares that Port Douglas bond, owning an apartment here and falling in love with its vibrant atmosphere, exceptional cuisine, and relaxed way of life.

The wedding itself was a testament to their impeccable planning skills and passion for details. They orchestrated every element themselves, with Sarah Woods as their trusted celebrant. The ceremony was designed to be intimate, romantic, and fun, just like their personalities. They invited only 22 of their closest friends and family, ensuring the day was about meaningful connections rather than grandeur.

Tucked away in Port Douglas, St Crispin's Café is a hidden gem, renowned for its picturesque garden setting that perfectly blends nature and elegance. For Scott and Sonja, choosing this cherished spot was a natural decision.

They were drawn in by its breathtaking views and their unforgettable dining experiences, with many a morning spent enjoying Chef Niels' incredible food, great coffee and the team's service. Now workshopping ideas with the owner and long term restaurateur Karen, they were filled with confidence and peace of mind.

The cafe's outdoor space, framed by a grand tree,offered a stunning and intimate setting for the ceremony, while the pergola, nestled in the lush surroundings, provided the perfect spot for the reception, allowing the celebration to flow seamlessly in one beautiful location.

For Scott and Sonja, who envisioned a wedding that reflected their love for the natural world, the vibrant greenery, colourful blooms, and gentle breeze from the Coral Sea created a truly magical atmosphere, making their celebration feel as romantic and personal as they had dreamed.

Highlights of their special day included Sonja being walked down the aisle by her 13 year old son Cooper, writing their own heartfelt vows, exchanged beneath the branches of the majestic Fig Tree. Through the mist of emotion and blur of their tears, they could barely make out the words on their handwritten vows, each trembling syllable a tender reflection of their love.

They also added a unique touch with a champagne ceremony, raising their glasses in a sparkling celebration of love and new beginnings. Their menu was equally memorable, featuring standout dishes like saffron prawn risotto and slow-cooked crispy pork belly, complemented by roast potatoes in duck fat and a beautifully refreshing spritz or cocktail. The chocolate mud cake with naked frosting, sourced from Hummingbird Cakes and topped with custom Etsy cake toppers, was the perfect sweet finish.

Photographer Rebecca worked her magic, capturing the essence of the day amidst the breathtaking tropical gardens, the picturesque bridge leading to the golf course, and the serene lake. Each photograph beautifully reflected their love story, allowing them to effortlessly be themselves as she immortalised the vibrant beauty of their surroundings and the pure joy they shared.

After the wedding, Scott and Sonja immersed themselves in the region's charm, retreating to the Sheraton where they unwound in their swim-out suite and enjoyed the calming waters of the resort's lagoon pools.

While their guests explored Mossman Gorge, local markets, and iconic restaurants, the couple savoured their newly married time together. A week later, still wrapped in the warmth of their wedding bliss, they set off on a romantic three-week honeymoon to Austria and Northern Italy, where Sonja's heritage intertwined with the magic of new adventures.

For couples dreaming of a destination wedding, Scott and Sonja offer simple advice: "Make It Your Own!". Port Douglas, with its unique charm, is the ideal place to craft a wedding that reflects your love and individuality - just as it did for them at St Crispin's, where their forever began.

WEDDING SUPPLIERS

SONJA DRESSED BY: Breye, Bridal Boutique Trinity Park
SCOTT DRESSED BY: Connor
CEREMONY, RECEPTION & CATERING: St Crispin’s Cafe and Events
PHOTOGRAPHY: Rebecca Wade Photography
CELEBRANT: Sarah Woods
CAKE: The Hungry Hummingbird
HAIR & MU: LG hair and Make Up
FLOWERS: Etsy!
ENTERTAINMENT: Our hilarious selves!