Category: Real Wedding

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Real Wedding

Natalie and Sam’s Exquisite Wine Country Wedding – The Woodhouse Wollombi

Photo: Studio Something

A stunning 100-acre property, tucked away in lush wine country and immersed amongst expansive park-like grounds.  It’s the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the big smoke – an escape from reality – your own little piece of nature.  We call it a picture-perfect secluded paradise that invokes feelings of home and comfort.  But whatever image and feelings you want to project onto it, it is exactly how it will be.  Because The Woodhouse Wollombi is a magical blank canvas, a place where you can paint your own masterpiece – your own dream wedding, your way.  As the owners like to put it –  “Your Day Your Way – Let Your Imagination Run Wild”.

Here’s your invitation to the “gallery viewing”  of  Natalie and Sam’s masterpiece wedding.

Sitting in the middle of Red Wood Park Wollombi, is “The Woodhouse”: A rustic but refined timber building with high ceilings and large light filled windows.  With this European-like aesthetics and barn-like architecture – nothing more needs to be done against this blank canvas, except to add a bride and groom!

The Finer Details

A masterpiece isn’t complete without an element of still life.  Natalie and Sam took inspiration from the native Australian landscape and enlisted the help of Print 35 for their invitations, floral designs by Little Wrens (just look at that bouquet and boutonnieres!), a subtle addition of Australian flora on the wedding cake by Messina and a splash of greenery on the dining tables also by Little Wrens.

Special Captured Moments

There is nothing quite like the the sights and sounds of people bringing a blank canvas to life.  The gathering and celebration of love, life and culture of the special bond between Natalie and Sam were beautifully captured by Studio Something.  Here are some highlights!

The Accompanying Soundtrack

Duke helped to curate an experience with Natalie and Sam, so they, along with their guests could immerse themselves in a celebration for their love. Our Duke Duo provided a pre-Ceremony music soundtrack for Natalie and Sam to set the tone for a beautiful Ceremony. Tim (from Duke) was also honoured to accompany traditional Vocalist, Isser, on Guitar, whilst he provided his talent as their traditional Jewish singer throughout the Ceremony. Working alongside Isser, we were able to provide a perfectly balanced music experience that incorporated Natalie and Sam’s traditional choices with the romantic atmosphere they wanted to achieve.

One of our favourite aspects of performing at The Woodhouse Wollombi is the stunning location they offer for Wedding Ceremonies and Canapes hour. It’s a short stroll down the hill from the Reception location to a serene and elegant spot. Chris Gable from our Duke team performed as a soloist during Canapes hour, providing a Sax and Vocal performance to accompanying backing tracks. It was the perfect afternoon to enjoy a beverage or two to the delightful tunes and sociable atmosphere provided by Chris Gable.

As sunset hit, out came the dancing shoes with the Duke Band kicking off the festivities with the Hora. It was thrilling and exciting to say the least, we’re in awe of how Brides and Grooms survive such an epic experience! 

Guests moved inside to enjoy Dinner service, during which our Duke Band provided some light and delicious dinner music for everyone’s tastes. Once dinner and the formalities concluded,  Natalie and Sam shared their first dance to Lover of the Light by Mumford & Sons.   Our Duke Quintet continued the evening with a full dance floor featuring bangers by The Chilli Peppers, Kings Of Leon,  Stevie Wonder, and Queen. Check out for yourself just how much fun we had in these fabulous pics by Studio Something.

Thank you Natalie and Sam for having us be a part of your wonderful wedding day at The Woodhouse. 

Natalie and Sam's Wedding used the following suppliers to create their masterpiece!

Venue: The Woodhouse Wollombi

Catering: Fennel and Co

Florals: Little Wrens

Band: Duke Music

Photography & Videography: Studio Something

Hair & Make Up: Shauna Crowley – Sydney Bridal Makeup

Rabbi: Richie Moss

Wedding Cake: Messina

Kosher: Beaches Kosher

Photo Magnets: Magnetic Shots

Transport: Grape Experience

Invitations: Print 35

Categories
Real Wedding

Elise and Nic’s magical waterside wedding

To say we’re excited about Elise and Nic’s magical waterside wedding is an understatement. This darling couple have been loved-up for so long, it feels like we’ve been waiting forever for them to finally get hitched. Elise and Nic were supposed to be married in May 2020, however the first round of Covid-lockdowns in Sydney had other plans for them. After postponing their plans for 12 months, Elise and Nic finally tied the knot in Sydney’s Northern Beaches in May 2021. Duke was there to help them celebrate, providing the perfect wedding music from their Ceremony to the Dance floor. Here’s the shimmy on how their magical wedding day went down. We say a huge thank you to Charlotte Exton Photography for these gorgeous images.

About their Ceremony

Nothing brings us more joy than a peaceful and romantic Ceremony location that sings with a sense or reverie. From the moment we set eyes on their Ceremony location we couldn’t help being taken aback by the serenity. McCarr’s Creek Reserve in Church Point is dappled by tall Spotted Gum Trees and runs beside a rocky shore and sandy beach. It also extends into larger bushland areas in the National Park. This setting provided the perfect backdrop for Elise and Nic to share their vows and be married.

Their Ceremony was elegantly styled by the wonderful team from Little Lane Events and their impeccable eye for detail. We know many readers will be vying for some of the styling crafted by Little Lane for Elise’s wedding day, but to be fair she did have a slight wedding advantage, being one of the Little Lane Team members herself! Her unique taste and flair for styling and all things weddings resonates throughout their entire wedding day, as you can see.

Elise and Nic’s magical waterside wedding Ceremony was officiated by the lovely Lisa Parker from Married By Lisa. She’s arguably one of our most favourite Celebrants. Lisa takes great pride in creating beautiful, bespoke Ceremonies delivered with joy, warmth, and professionalism. She’s a pleasure to work beside and we’re a great team.

Our Duke duo performed live throughout their Ceremony, with Elise walking down the aisle to our rendition of ‘Feels Like Home’ by Chantal Kreviazuk (one of our favourite songs). During their Signing guests chatted amongst themselves as we performed our version of ‘I Can’t Help Falling In Love With You’ (you can listen to it here). Warmly congratulated by Lisa and formally introduced as Husband and Wife, Elise and Nic recessed down the Aisle together to our rendition of ‘Everybody Needs Somebody To Love’ by The Blues Brothers. Our song carried them through to their Champagne tower which was the perfect way to celebrate their newly minted marriage.

Josie and Tim are the best in the biz. I’d heard them perform many times at weddings I was working at and they were so good that I booked them for my own and didn’t even consider anyone else. Not only are they incredibly skilled and incredibly professional musicians, but they’re also so much fun and just great people. They made sure our wedding day had an epic soundtrack – and they made it seem effortless! Couldn’t recommend them highly enough.

– Elise and Nic

Off For Photos

About their Wedding Reception

The handiwork of Little Lane Events continued to impress us as we arrived at Elise and Nic’s wedding Reception. BYRA was transformed into a magical, awe-inspiring, wedding wonderland. From the floral arrangements, to the styling pieces, to the lighting and ambience.. It’s hard to imagine BYRA being a sailing club in any way at all! Congratulations to Little Lane Events for this wonderful transformation. It was the perfect setting for Elise and Nic to see their wedding celebrations from day into night.

Our Duke duo continued to perform throughout their Canapes-style Reception to provide a mix of pop hits and classic covers to warm everyone’s hearts and help liquify the evening. If there was such a thing as the perfect speeches, Elise and Nic’s friends and family had exactly those, with just a touch of the theatrical. Elise’s two best mates surprised her with a rendition of a song they had all performed together years before, in their high school musical. It was such a delight to see them sharing such a special moment together.

When it came time to kick their heels up, Elise and Nic opened the dance floor by sharing their first dance to ‘I’m So In The Love With You’ by Ball Park Music. Josie’s DJ skills rolled everyone on into the night with a rocking mix of 90’s + 00’s bangers, dappled with some epic country singalongs and pop hits.

Thank you to Elise and Nic for having Duke Music be a part of your wedding day. It was our joy to perform for you.

Elise and Nic’s Wedding Vendors;

Live Music – Duke Duo + DJ
Celebrant – Married By Lisa
Photography – Charlotte Exton
Styling and Coordination – Little Lane Events
Videography – Story Of Us

Categories
Real Wedding

Steph and Ian’s gallery wedding – a visual and literal feast

There’s no better day than a day when your clients send through their wedding photos. Steph and Ian’s wedding was absolutely one of our favourites! We are so excited to share their amazing day with you, courtesy of Cassie from Bedford Photography. Although we’re in the throws of Sydney’s third lockdown, we’re glad we had a chance to celebrate with Stephanie and Ian on their wedding day at the Hazelhurst Gallery, whilst Covid gave us all a (brief) reprieve in early 2021. Steph and Ian booked the Duke Duo + Trio + DJ package for their wedding day. Here’s how it went down!

Their First Look..

So what is a first-look, you ask? Well, it’s a great idea – that’s what! A first look is the perfect opportunity for you and your beloved to have a moment together before the madness of the rest of your wedding day. You’ll be pulled in every direction; saying hi to all your family and friends, being snapped, having drinks, hitting the d-floor for a boogie, and smooching your lover. Makes sense to get a bit of one-on-one time in early, right? Totes.

Their Wedding Ceremony

Their Ceremony songs

Our Duke duo had the honour of performing these songs live for Steph and Ian’s wedding Ceremony;

Aisle song: We Found Each In the Dark – City and Colour
Signing of the Register song: Heroes – David Bowie
Signing of the Register song: Marry Me – Train (click here to listen to our version!)
Recessional song: You’ve Got The Love – Florence And the Machine

Their Wedding Party

An honourable mention goes out to these good looking humans who were part of Steph and Ian’s wedding party. Whilst guests mingled during Canapés hour, their wedding crew took the time to chillax and grab a few fun snaps with Cass from Bedford Photography.

On their Reception

When Steph and Ian moved to their Reception, they joined their guests for drinks and canapes whilst the our Duke Duo serenaded them all on the deck. Not long afterwards guests were greeted by the absolute visual (and literal) feast that is the Hazelhurst Gallery.

The Dancing Part

The Duke Duo becomes the Trio for Dinner and Dancing, then DJ Josie lets- loose!

With the addition of our third musician, Chris Gable, we had the joy of levelling-up from our Duke Duo to our Trio. It’s one of our favourite musician combinations, in fact! This meant the addition of not only a third vocalist, but Chris also plays the Sax, Bass, and acoustic Guitar as well (is there anything he can’t do?). We had the pleasure of playing live during their Dinner service, then we opened the Dancefloor with some crazy-good bangers. Oh, and Chris played a killer rendition of Billy Joel’s ‘Just The Way You Are’. (Click here if you wanna have a listen to Chris’ version!).

To finish the night, Josie took over as DJ and ended the night on a huge high! (photo evidence attached!).

Testimonial

“Josie is a true professional, she was a pleasure to work with from the moment we first enquired about Duke.
We had already postponed our wedding due to Covid before we met Josie. She answered all our questions and gave us the flexibility we needed if we had to move our date again which gave us peace of mind. Josie was super friendly and made the whole experience fun and relaxed. Everything ran so smoothly music wise on the day. Duke set the tone for our ceremony with a beautiful selection of acoustic songs combining our favourites with tunes they selected that fit beautifully. At the reception Josie and the crew read the room really well to keep the good vibes and dancing flowing all through the night to the very last song. All our guests commented on how fantastic the band were. Loved the saxophone!! Nailed the Billy Joel song we chose for our first dance. And hearing him playing the violin in Runaway by the Corrs… that was very cool. Thank you for helping make our wedding the best day ever.”

— Stephanie and Ian

Many thanks to Steph and Ian for having us be part of your amazing wedding day.

A huge thanks also to Cass from Bedford Photography for sharing these images with us! Make sure you BOOK HER for your wedding photography.

https://bedfordphotography.com/

Categories
Real Wedding

Alex and Phil’s intimate Freshwater wedding day

With many of our Clients wedding plans being impacted by Covid-19, we’ve seen our fair share of cancellations, postponements, and re-schedules. But planning your wedding day in 3 weeks takes the (wedding) cake! Alex and Phil achieved this very feat, and with bucket loads of success and good spirits to boot.

Jason Corrotto Photography

Getting ready..

Jason Corrotto Photography

Alex’ wedding look

Alex’ look was wonderfully elegant in her Suzanne Harward Couture ‘Aurora’ gown. Iconic Melbourne Designer Suzanne Harward has been creating breathtaking couture wedding gowns and red-carpet dresses for more than four decades. She specialises in made-to-measure and ready-to-wear lines that exhibit the finest quality in luxurious textiles and complex couture construction techniques. Her ‘Aurora’ gown is a part of her limited-edition Utopia collection of never to be repeated handmade couture gowns.

Alexandra and her Bridesmaids carried exquisite bouquets made by White House Flowers in the Northern Beaches. The delicate array of white Roses and Orchids, were later perfectly complemented by the floral styling at the Reception (more to come on that, later!).

At their Freshwater Ceremony by the beach, feat Duke Duo.

Jason Corrotto Photography

Coming down the Aisle

All eyes were on Alex as she gracefully made her way down the Aisle to Duke’s rendition of ‘Sea Of Love’ by Cat Power. Met by Phil, they were all smiles whilst their Celebrant Mary-Louise indulged us in some novel history about Freshwater, before marrying our lovely couple in a relaxed Ceremony (we should mention, she’s also a Relationship Coach, a Yoga Teacher, and a JP – impressive!).

Phil and Alex celebrated to the sounds of Duke’s cover of Ho Hey by The Lumineers, to the throws of petals and cheers by their nearest and dearest.

Jason Corrotto Photography

Alex and Phil’s Reception.
It’s time to begin!

Jason Corrotto Photography
Jason Corrotto Photography

Covid, who?

As we mentioned earlier, pulling together the plans for a wedding in just 3 weeks is no mean feat. After Covid changed their original plans, once the restrictions eased in NSW Alex and Phil didn’t hesitate to bring together the day of their dreams. We think it came together with finesse and grace – well done Alex and Phil! Ok, onto the exciting stuff..

Hi Josie and Tim, 

Phil and I would love to thank you so much for doing such a fantastic job at our wedding! The music was perfect at every stage of the evening and totally made the event! 

We also wanted to thank you for transitioning to silent disco later in the evening – we weren’t sure how it was going to work but I think it’s safe to say it was an absolute hit!

Alex and Phil

Jason Corrotto Photography

Making their wedding day uniquely theirs

Entering their Reception to ‘You Make My Dreams Come True’ by Hall and Oats, our Duke Duo went straight on to play a beautiful mix of current pop hits and classics while guests enjoyed Entree and Mains service. (We caught a tasty glimpse of the menu with our crew meal, which was the most exceptional fillet of Snapper we’ve ever eaten!).

After an obligatory round of hilarious and heartwarming speeches, Alex and Phil cut their cake then made their way to the Dance-Floor for their First Dance. We were honoured to perform an acoustic version of Beyonce’s ‘Love On Top’ (you can check out the version, here). We hadn’t ever heard this version until we were asked by Alex and Phil to learn it for their wedding day, we highly recommend you have a listen if you’re looking for something a little familiar but also very unique.

Jason Corrotto Photography

Once the Dance-floor opened, the party kicked into gear!

Although there are some sound-restrictions at Pilu (which are in place in full respect of the neighbours and surrounding community) no body can stand in the way of a dancefloor when there’s a silent disco! Thanks to the team at Silent Rave, Alex and Phil and all their guests were all able to celebrate like there’s no tomorrow to Josie’s DJ bangers.

Thank you so much to Alex and Phil for having us be part of your wonderful wedding day at Freshwater. We had such a blast playing live and DJ’ing for you!

Thank you to Jason Corroto for these wonderful photos. Be sure to scroll to the end of this blog post to check out Alex and Phil’s full list of incredible vendors who helped to make their special day!

Jason Corrotto Photography



Alex and Phil’s vendors include;

Live Music and DJ – Duke Music – www.dukemusic.com.au
Photographer – Jason Corroto – www.jasoncorrotophoto.com
Kombis – Kombi Weddings – www.kombiweddings.com
Makeup – Aleisha Johnson Makeup – www.aleishajohnson.com
Hair – Courtney Hurst – www.courtneyhurst.com.au
Dress – Suzanne Harward – www.suzanneharward.com
Flowers – White House Flowers – www.whitehouseflowers.com.au
Venue – Pilu – www.pilu.com.au
Celebrant – Mary-Louise – www.freshiecelebrant.com
Silent Disco Headphones – Silent Rave – www.Silentrave.com.au

Alex and Phil’s Wedding was also featured in Together Journal. Head to this link to check it out.

Categories
Real Wedding

Nicole and Alastair’s rustic wedding (with kick-ass dancefloor) at Peppers Creek

We were so lucky to perform for Alastair and Nicole at this stunning wedding venue in the Hunter Valley.

Peppers Creeks boasts one of the best wedding venues in the Hunter Valley, perfect for your Ceremony, Reception & Wedding Accommodation. After a year of waiting, Alastair and Nicole’s wedding day finally arrived! It came as no surprise to us Dukies that after the long and patient year of waiting for their postponed wedding date, Covid wasn’t going to stand in the way of these two having the wedding day dreams are made of at Peppers Creek. We were lucky enough to perform for Alastair and Nicole at this stunning wedding venue in the Hunter Valley. Here’s some info about their wedding venue and how their wedding day went down. Thank you to wedding photographer Red Moose Photography for these images.

About their venue:
The Peppers Creek Barrel Room

Celebrating amidst the Autumnal vines of Peppers Creek Barrel Room in the Hunter Valley, our couple had the luxury of all their wedding plans happening in the same location. Hunter Valley Wedding Venue Peppers Creek Barrel Room is a beautiful country property nestled on the banks of the mighty Hunter River and surrounded by lush green countryside with views over the river valley to Mount Rochford. Peppers Creek is centrally located on Broke Road in Pokolbin, the heart of Hunter Valley Wine Country.

The venue has been designed with rustic opulence in mind as an intimate space that can accommodate up to 200 guests seated or standing at tables set around the lawns and gardens. Alastair and Nicole celebrated their Ceremony in the on-site Chapel, and their Reception in the majestic Barrel room (complete with roaring fireplace).

Onsite accommodation is also available through www.pepperscreek.com.au which is the perfect place to stay with you and your wedding party prior to the wedding day.  Peppers Creek offers three unique stone cottages, ideal for friend or family group getaways to the Hunter Valley. The onsite accommodation can be offered individually or as a group booking, a total of 26 guests can be accommodated in the cottages. Each cottage is fully equipped with all linen and towels provided for your stay.

Source: pepperscreek.com.au

A little on booking their band..

For Alastair and Nicole it all started with their Best Man, Damien. Attending as a guest at another Duke wedding, Damien carved up the dance floor with us! After that night he didn’t hesitate to let his besties know about the rocking band he saw and it was his personal recommendation which lead Alastair and Nicole to book with us. (Personal recommendations are the most common way our couples find us!). Being a creative couple with strong musical influences, it was important to them they find a discerning band who could perform a variety of tunes from Ceremony to Dance-Floor, and ensure guests would be partying well into the night. The perfect musical recipe for Alastair and Nicole’s entire wedding day was absolutely our Duke Duo for their Ceremony and Canapés, partnered with our Duke Quintet for Dinner music and Dancing.

Red Moose Photography

Their Wedding Ceremony in Peppers Creek Chapel

Their Wedding Ceremony was set in the Peppers Creek Chapel, an idyllic sandstone building, with traditional, antique timber church pews, lectern, signing table and chairs.  The sandstone Chapel offers the perfect country vineyard setting, overlooking the Merlot vines. We commenced their Ceremony with a song meant for a true One Direction fan (Nicole) called ‘Little Things’ as our Bride made her way down the aisle.


Certainly one of the highlights of performing for their Ceremony was to have Alastair come up to us soon afterwards to let us know how well he thought we’d played that song 🙂 Job done! The tone was perfectly set for the rest of the celebrations ahead!

Some Canapes to see in the sunset

As Canapés continued after the Ceremony beside the Chapel, we played on as an Acoustic Duo in the Chapel courtyard whilst guests mingled and supped champers. Whilst we were providing some beautiful ambient music for guests to socialize, I had the pleasure of briefly getting a happy-snap with some long time friends (between songs) – what a joy to unexpectedly see them! This is a photo of me with Mark and his wife Denise (Damien’s Mum and Dad!). Mark was the Musical Director of a show I performed back in 2008 .. just a little Disney production called ‘Beauty And The Beast’ where I had the honor of performing the lead role of ‘Belle’. You can watch a little of it here!

Josie with Mark and Denise Pigot

Off to enjoy some photos with their

‘I Do Crew’

The stunning grounds of Peppers Creek Barrel Room include; vineyards, creek, chapel and of course the barrel room itself. There are many nearby locations which are perfect for capturing your couple photos, including long grassy spaces which are illuminated by the golden sunset. The country bush surroundings are just across the road with the hills behind them creating the perfect picturesque backdrop. 

And the party begins!

Alastair and Nicole’s Wedding Reception kicked off shortly afterwards, welcoming guests into the large Barrel Room (and cosy fireplace). Within short walking distance to the Chapel, the entrance to the building is framed by three meter high Indian elephant doors. The entertainment area is centred around a five-metre wide stone fireplace and the building is made from century old stone blocks. 

Duke had the honor of playing their Reception entrance song ‘Let’s Get It Started’ by the Black Eyed Peas (classic!) as each couple was formally introduced to the wedding guests.
Then we swung straight into what our band loves, playing excellent dinner music. With our 5-piece band we performed throughout entrees and dinner service, warming up the guests for the blazing Dance-Floor to follow.

Let’s the Dance-Floor commence!

Alastair and Nicole official opened the Dance-Floor with their First Dance, our duke-inspired live rendition of Tamia’s ‘So Into You’.. one of our favorite tunes right now. Then, it was all guns blazing as Duke lit-up that dance floor and we partied hard into the night. We performed an array of classic bangers, retro sing-alongs, and blazing rock tunes. You have to see it to believe it.

What a way to end the night!

After a HUGE night of dancing (goodbye, Covid restrictions!) it was only fitting we say goodbye with another One Direction classic for Alastair and Nicole, waving goodbye to them with ‘Kiss You’ as their Farewell song.

Alastair and Nicole’s Review

If you’ve read this far into this blog post, lucky you! You’ll be graced with some very kind words from our Groom, who summed up his experience with Duke kindly. What an amazing wedding day. We’re stoked to share his words with you and hope that you’ll be thinking of us for your wedding day, too!

Josie,

I don’t even know what to say. We are just absolutely in awe of you all! Nicole and I have spent the last day just going back and forth reliving moments from the dance floor at our wedding. You guys gave us the day that we’ve always dreamed of. Your performance, timing and professionalism was phenomenal. But most importantly you were just so much bloody fun and really knew how to get everyone involved. I really, really mean it when I say that you absolutely made our wedding.

Every single song was an absolute banger and I think everyone at our wedding has made the effort to tell us how incredible you were. 

We’ll send you a few pics of the night when they come through from our photographer but I really wanted to say a huge huge HUGE thank you for everything.

Much love,

Al & Nicole

Categories
Real Wedding

Debbie And Drew Get Hitched

Talk about lucky in love! Debbie and Drew won their wedding through Wedstock Festival, and we were thrilled to be a part of their special day that had bright retro vibes, happy people and a vintage car exploding with blooms. Here are some photo highlights from the talented photography team at Mr Wigley.

Getting ready for the big day

Our Groom, Drew, spent the morning got ready with his boys (with a dash of whiskey, beers and lots of laughs). Debbie was of course preparing for the day with her awesome tribe. As soon as the blue suede shoes were on, the dancing began – as you know, we’re all about the music so we already love this wedding!

Coming down the aisle

Our bride Debbie walked down the aisle to Duke Music’s rendition of Angels by The XX. Celebrant Venetia Robertson crafted a warm and connected ceremony for Debbie and Drew and their small group of friends and family. The newlyweds hugged, kissed and everyone hoorayed as they walked down the aisle to our duo playing You’ve Got The Love by Florence + The Machine.

Whizzing around Sydney

Debbie and Drew traveled together in style in a mint yellow and black vintage car and really, they could have had the ceremony inside the car filled with flowers and we would have been overjoyed. Huge credit to Black Cab Central for providing such a fun mode of transport, featuring cheery shades of florals on the roof.

Getting some happy snaps

During group photos Debbie and Drew definitely cranked up the fun factor, popping a bottle of champagne and showering every soul in the garden!

Off to their photoshoot

Then they were back in that epic ride heading downtown, for couple photos that were candid, fresh and fun. Backdrops of giant tree roots, rustic brick walls, graffitied street corners and the waterfront at sunset were all part of the plan, and it unfolded perfectly.

Kicking their heels up at their Reception

Back at Wilhelmina’s in Balmain, the party was on and what a great little place to celebrate love. Roseberry Cake Creations had delivered the sweetest pink and yellow wedding cake styled with red and pink florals and a gold cake topper. The guests said the blast of color matched the taste. They also took home thank you boxes filled with treats for later – thoughtful touches make the day extra special.

Thank you to Wedstock Festival for inviting us to this epic wedding. They describe their service as creatively alternative and eclectic at heart, connecting couples with like-minded and unique vendors. Our creative souls were bursting with confetti to be a part of this collaboration.

VENDORS

Music – Duke Music – dukemusic.com.au

Car – Black Cab Central – blackcabcentral.com.au

Photography – Mr Wigley – mrwigley.com

Planner – Wedstock Festival – wedstockfestival.com.au

Celebrant – Venetia Robertson – venetiawithlove.com

Cake – Roseberry Cake Creations – roseberrycakecreations.com.au

Rings – Australian Wedding Rings – australianweddingrings.com.au

Florals – Rebellious Blooms – rebelliousblooms.com.au

Categories
Real Wedding

Simone and Rob’s Natural Minimal Jervis Bay Wedding at The Cove

A waterfront view and decor full of minimal, natural colors which perfectly complemented the scenery around them, Simone and Rob’s Jervis Bay wedding at The Cove was one of our favorite celebrations in 2020!

The morning of their Jervis Bay wedding day

Rob started the day by getting ready with his four groomsmen, enjoying laughs and a few beers together. Keeping with the minimal theme, they all dawned cream and white suits. With the prettiest boho inspired interior in the bridal suite (aka “Glam Room”) complete with pink, palm print wallpaper, Simone and her three bridesmaids sipped on champagne before Simone slipped into her Made With Love fitted lace wedding dress with her bridesmaids wearing a stunning moss green slip dress.

With guests arriving and getting settled for the ceremony, florals, dried palms, and grasses in various shades of white, orange, and green styled by Pia and Jade framed a spot by the water for the couple to say I-Do.

About their Ceremony

Duke and Quintet performed “Speechless” by Dan and Shay live while the bridesmaids made their walk down the aisle, with Simone making her entrance to Callum Scott’s “You Are The Reason.” After exchanging vows, the two signed their certificates to “Here Comes The Sun” by Nathan Roberts and “Love Lost” by Temper Trap. With the wiping away of tears by both Rob and Simone captured by Ainslee Burke Photography,their celebrant, Kylie Sharman, announced them husband and wife! After sealing the ceremony with a kiss, the two walked back up the aisle, hand in hand, under flower petals thrown by the guests in celebration to Rudimental’s “Lay It All On Me”!

Celebrating their Reception

After some group shots with family and their bridal party, Simone and Rob made an epic entrance into their reception to “You Make My Dreams Come True” by Hall and Oates. Their reception space was complete with wooden tables featuring florals of varying heights, candles, and linen napkins. Each guest received a bottled cocktail from Three Foxes, a “Find A Guest” bingo sheet to encourage guests to connect and get to know each other, and a place for guests to sign a puzzle piece in place of a guest book. We love the simplicity of their style and all of the unique elements they included in their Jervis Bay Wedding!

Partying in style with Duke

After toasts the two cut their cake to none other than “Cut The Cake” by Average White Band followed by their first dance to Chris Stapleton’s “Millionaire.” The guests capped the night off by showing off their skills and celebrating in style on the dance floor with the new Mr. and Mrs!

Congratulations Simone and Rob, we are so happy we had a place in celebrating your love story at The Cove!

If you’re looking for wedding entertainment, we are your people! Want Duke Music to help you celebrate your love story? Reach out to us, we can’t wait to hear from you!

VENDORS

Venue: The Cove (Jervis Bay)

Photographer: Ainslee Burke Photography

Videographer: Way Up High

Styling | Floral | Stationery: Pia & Jade

Hired Items: South Coast Party Hire

Catering: Citrus Catering

Drinks + Bar: Henry Clive Caravan Bar

Guest Favors: Three Foxes

Celebrant: Kylie Sharman

MUAH: South Coast Hair and Makeup

Bridal Attire: Made With Love Bridal (dress), Grace Loves Lace (shoes)

Bridal + Bridesmaid Accessories: Mezi

Bridesmaid Dresses: Bec & Bridge

Getting Ready Attire: Piyama

Groom + Groomsmen Attire: Institchu

Groom + Groomsmen Socks: Sock Club

Live Music + Entertainment: Duke + Quintet (Event Entertainers)

Categories
Real Wedding

Ashleigh and Jarrod’s Sydney Harbour Wedding at Q Station Manly

Choosing the perfect wedding venue – Q Station

Ashleigh and Jarrod’s Sydney harbour wedding at Q Station Manly was undoubtedly the perfect way to kick off the new year! With simplistic styling, decor, and of course great music, their 3rd of January nuptials were complete with their families and friends as witnesses to help them celebrate the day.

Ashleigh and Jarrod chose the Q Station Manly wedding venue for both their ceremony and reception —a beautiful hotel located on 30 acres of bushland with a backdrop of the Sydney Harbour. Playing off the colors of the venue space, Jarrod and his groomsmen dressed in dark green suits and bow ties with touches of light pink and white on the boutonnieres.

Ashleigh’s leading ladies

Ashleigh and her leading ladies sipped champagne in matching floral pajama sets before dressing in their dark teal green gowns. The foliage on the property perfectly complemented their attire and looked beautiful next to Ashleigh’s gown—an ivory, spaghetti strap, wrap dress with floral embellishments. Keeping it light and elegant, Ashleigh wore her hair down in waves and completed her look with a long veil.

Their ceremony music (and the amazing water views)

Their geometric ceremony backdrop at the waterfront set the scene with a relaxed arrangement —seating for some while others stood and waited anxiously for Ashleigh to walk down the aisle. Jarrod and his groomsmen waited at the top of the aisle while their bridesmaids walked down in pairs. An acoustic version of “Yeah Yeah Yeahs” by Maps was performed by Duke Duo and Quartet as the bride-to-be walked in visible excitement to her soon-to-be husband.

The two sealed the ceremony with a kiss and were officially announced husband and wife as they made their way into their next chapter together accompanied by a live rendition of Shalamar’s “A Night To Remember” while walking back up the aisle. The certificate signing playlist included “This Must Be The Place” by Talking Heads and Otis Redding’s “Sittin’ On The Dock Of The Bay.”

Photo location after (great) photo location at Q Station

There are so many gorgeous spots at Q Station. The party captured stunning group photos as well as couple’s portraits across the venue. (Oh, and we’re not kidding when we say we get to work with some of the most gorgeous couples!).

Ashleigh and Jarrod’s party-fuelled Reception

After snapping a few shots with Days Like These Photography, the couple and their guests moved into their reception… Not to be started without a grand entrance from the bridesmaids, groomsmen, and the couple themselves!

“Duke Music were absolutely amazing at our wedding at Q Station! They played a beautiful acoustic set at our ceremony, kept the mood through the canapés, dinner and between speeches, and set the dance floor alight for the rest of the evening with a three-piece band! Josie was super professional in the lead up to the wedding and on the day. She had loads of great advice for the day, and allowed us to pick songs from a wide repertoire, giving all the special moments a personal touch. We couldn’t recommend Duke Music more for your wedding or event.”Jarrod Bird – Married at Q Station Manly

Your first dance doesn’t just have to be the two of you

Ashleigh and Jarrod shared their first dance together to Sister Sledge’s “We Are Family”. During their first dance Duke brought all guests together on the dance floor to celebrate the new Mr. and Mrs!

After kick starting the festivities, Duke kept the dance floor alive for the rest of the night. It was the perfect end to a day they will look back on for years to come!

Congratulations Ashleigh and Jarrod and thank you again for booking your entertainment with us.
Thank you to Days Like These Photography for the use of your wonderful images.

VENDORS

Venue: Q Station

Stylist: Poco Uno – Ash Macedo

Event Planning: Days Like These Events

Photographer: Days Like These Photography

Florist: Hannah Sherwood

Makeup: Makeup by Leah

Hair: Laura Morris

Celebrant: Married By Jess

Master of Ceremonies: Anthony Hess

Live Music & Band: Duke Duo and Quartet

Categories
News Real Wedding

Jess and Chris’ beachy boho wedding

Our couple, Jess and Chris, wed on 1 February 2020 at the Beachside Dojo Manly, Australia and the day, planned by Cloud 9 Event Management, could not have been more perfect!

We had the honour of bringing music to their Northern Beaches wedding and let us tell you, it was a night to remember!

The bridesmaids and groomsmen dawned a beautiful navy blue which perfectly accented Jess and Chris’ Beachy Boho Wedding ceremony and reception decor, featuring white florals and pops of greenery with Monstera leaves and tropical palms, arranged and styled by Mabel & Elsie.

Their first look

Jess and Chris had their first look and were all smiles when he turned around and saw her in a beautiful, spaghetti strap A-line gown which featured a low back and a deep illusion front plunge.

About their Ceremony and Reception

The couple chose to have live music at their ceremony and reception which is what we truly specialise in.
Jess was accompanied down the aisle by her father to a live performance of Ruelle’s “I Get To Love You” performed by Duke.
Friends and family attended their intimate ceremony. Saskia from Dovetail Celebrants married the couple, and we’d be lying if we said a few tears weren’t shed!
After being announced as husband and wife, they recessed back down the aisle to Duke’s rendition of “Best Day of My Life” by American Authors.
The perfect choice of song, as it was most definitely one of the best days of their life!

Moving into cocktail hour, guests enjoyed live music performed by Duke who was also accompanied by Chris Gable. They entertained the guests throughout dinner before heading into speeches that Jess and Chris gave to one another with their flower girl—also their daughter—present!

After cutting their two tier ombré blue cake, which featured gold accents and florals seen throughout their decor, the couple headed out to the rocks for some stunning sunset photos, captured by the very talented Ripple Weddings.

Sunset photos beachside in Manly

Returning from their portraits, they shared their first dance together to Ed Sheeran’s “Thinking Out Loud”. After that, it was time to get the rest of the night started! Duke DJ’d the remainder of their reception performing songs that had guests up and dancing the rest of the night. (Not to mention, plenty of songs that were dear to Jess and Chris’ hearts).

Congratulations Jess and Chris on your perfect wedding at the Beachside Dojo Manly.

To see everyone having such a great time on the dance floor is the reason why we love what we do.

Are you looking for live music for your wedding day? We serve couples in Sydney, Melbourne, and beyond! Get in touch and let’s start planning (it’s music to our ears!)

Vendors

Venue: Beachside Dojo

Wedding Planner: Cloud 9 Event Management

Photographer: Ripple Weddings

Florist & Stylist: Mabel & Elsie

Celebrant: Saskia from Dovetail Celebrants

Cake: Copper Fork Cakes

Live Music & DJ: Duke Duo with special appearance from Chris Gable (Event Entertainers)

Duke Music

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