Posts Tagged ‘Burleigh Wedding’

Fiataui & Candice – Burleigh

Fiataui and Candice’s wedding was one of the most memorable I’ve photographed in a long time. The nuptials were set to take place on Burleigh headland, and in the hours prior to ceremony dark thunderclouds could be seen gathering over the Gold Coast hinterland. Several guests asked my opinion on whether the ceremony ought to be delayed, but I assured them that the storm was of the teacup variety, and would dissipate harmlessly before the bride arrived. Moments later a tornado struck, and we all fled screaming to a nearby shelter.

I then delivered the unfortunate news to the huddled guests that the weather had set in, and the ceremony would surely need to be abandoned. A few minutes later the rain ceased, the sun broke from behind the black clouds, and the wind became still.

Then the bride arrived, strolling out from beneath a sunburst as if nothing had happened. It was like a miracle.

The ceremony went by without a hitch, with a local celebrant and a Samoan priest sharing duties. When couple sealed their vows with a kiss the crowd applauded, then gathered around to congratulate the newly-weds. Candice was stunning in her classic white dress, and Fiataui struck a handsome and imposing figure in his traditional garb.

Afterwards, we went to Currumbin for some photos at the Alley, and then we went to the Currumbin RSL for the reception. The evening passed pleasantly, but without any unusual happenings, until it was time for the bridal waltz. And then we were all treated a very special traditional Samoan dance, performed with exceptional skill by both the bride and groom.

It was an honour to have been a part of the wedding, and to have shared such a special event with two warm and loving people. I wish you guys all the best for the future, and I hope you like the sample photos. Many more to come!


Melissa & Tomas – Coolangatta

A few weeks back I had the great pleasure of photographing the wedding of Melissa and Tomas. Tomas got ready at Palm Beach, and Melissa prepared for the big day at Mantra Resort, Coolangatta. After some minor hiccups, the show got on the road and the wedding party descended on Froggy’s Beach, a hidden cove of white sand between Point Danger and Snapper Rocks. The nuptials took place against the glimmering ocean, and under a bright blue sky; the roar of the ocean was matched only by the cheer that went up when the bride and groom sealed their vows with a passionate kiss.

After some photos of the guests and family, I led the couple and the bridal party up to the hill above Snapper Rocks where we shot some photos against the setting sun, and not long afterwards we left for Burleigh, where the reception took place at Point Break. The speeches were moving and funny in equal parts, and the bridal waltz was beautiful. It was clear to myself – and I’m sure to everyone present – that Mel & Tomas are hopelessly in love, and are destined to a long and happy life together.

All the best guys, and enjoy the photo and video sample :)

Mel + Tomas from Van Middleton on Vimeo.


Katie & Nathan – Burleigh Heads

Last weekend I had the great pleasure of photographing the wedding of Nathan & Katie Lawler. I started out with the boys at the Swell Resort, Burleigh, and afterwards moved on to the Mediterranean, where the bride and bridesmaids were getting ready. Next I moved on to Mick Shamburg Park to await the nuptials – along with a very healthy crowd of onlookers! It was a typically gorgeous winters day on the Gold Coast, and the bride completed the picture when she arrived. Beautiful!

After the ceremony we took some photos around the area, then made our way back to the North Burleigh Surf club, where the reception was held. Some great speeches, with the best man’s address a highlight.

A great wedding, and a wonderful couple. All the best, guys!