Jay & Shannon’s Rosy Botanic Garden Nuptials

Jay and Shannon met in high school. Their first date was a classic “dinner and a movie,” after which the two were inseparable.

Jay proposed to Shannon on her 22nd birthday. Her family and friends were all gathered at the New Market Hotel where she worked, so they were able to celebrate all together. - — Jay proposed to Shannon on her 22nd birthday. Her family and friends were all gathered at the New Market Hotel where she worked, so they were able to celebrate all together.

Jay and Shannon didn’t have a strict budget, but ended up spending around $22,000 on a celebration that truly wowed their 100 guests. They held their ceremony at the elegant Albury Botanic Gardens, which lent a sense of beauty in a nontraditional setting.

Shannon chose their reception venue, the Hovell Tree Inn, as part of a package. “It was great because we could just walk in and walk out,” Shannon said. “No cleaning up!”

Their decor incorporated classic vintage elements to represent their passions and personalities. “We are both old at heart,” Shannon said. “so we kept things simple, but elegant.”

This theme was reflected in the couple’s attire: Shannon’s soft pink and ivory gown from Jack and Jill bridal, and Jay’s well tailored waistcoat and bow tie.

Shannon’s mum chose her flowers – a simple range of white flowers and greenery – while the bridesmaids carried baby’s breath. Fairy lights cast a soft glow over draped fabric, illuminating their wishing well and cake table.

As a tribute to family and friends who could not be with them, Jay and Shannon lit a remembrance candle.

For Shannon, the best part of the day was seeing her husband-to-be as she walked down the aisle. Jay felt the same, but added that he enjoyed getting to put his touch on the day – when he thrilled their guests with the ultimate burnout!

One of the biggest challenges of planning the day was working through their seating plan. Shannon struggled to split up her many wonderful guests, but was pleased with the final result.

“Don’t stress because you’re not going to please everyone. Do it for yourself and your future husband,” Shannon advises future brides.