This little love story began over a backyard fence, where neighbours, Kate and Geoff, first met. And in that very backyard, the beach-loving pair celebrated their wedding in a vibrant fiesta packed with DIY details, captured by Gui Jorge.

With sweeping views of their local Freshwater Beach, the pair exchanged ‘I do’s’ on the hilltop reserve. “We wanted a simple ceremony featuring the beautiful area where we live” says Kate, who looked every bit the gorgeous beach bride in her Grace loves Lace gown and perfectly tousled blonde locks.

Their casual backyard reception represented many happy hours of wedding DIY. “The detail I’m most proud of are the favours,” Kate tells me, “tiny bottles of olive oil with a sprig of rosemary from our garden and a hand stamped card. They were a lot of work, but looked beautiful and worth the hours.”

Overflowing with vibrant flowers, fruit and candles, their backyard was decorated with colourful bunting and confetti brought back by Kate’s sister from a recent trip to Mexico. “We wanted a party that was loud and colourful,” says the bride, “with lots of dancing, beautiful food and cocktails, and I think we achieved that.”

To other couples tying the knot, Kate recommends supporting local up-and-coming suppliers for your wedding. “Talk to everyone and do your homework. There are some amazing little businesses out there that give such intimate service and amazing work.”

Photography: Gui Jorge| Bride’s dress: Grace loves Lace | Bride’s shoes: Zomp | Hair: Courtney Allsop | Makeup: Ashley Streeter | Ceremony venue: Freshwater Beach | Styling & Prop Hire: The Pretty Picker | Celebrant: Louise Spedding | Reception venue: Couple’s backyard, Freshwater | Flowers: Jacqui Protich | Catering: Lauren Hannam | Dessert table: Lusciouskiki Cake | Music: Mick Lindsay | Stationery/invitations: The Parchment Place