For Jess and Nick, tying the knot was all about ditching tradition and having a blast. Captured by The Evoke Company (who seem to have a thing for vibrant weddings), theirs was a day of eye-popping colour, endless feasting, piñata-smashing, fancy dress and dancing under the stars at Kiama’s stunning Bush Bank.

Having shared their first kiss while Nick was dressed as a schoolgirl, it’s not entirely surprising that these two should do things a little differently on their big day. Jess reminisces about the night in question, a ‘Back to School’ ball that saw the two university friends become something a little more. “Our first kiss was on the dance floor with Nick wearing a little girl’s school dress he got from an op shop!”

Opting for a something a little more masculine for his wedding day, Nick and his groomsmen wore cobalt MJ Bale chinos with leather braces and linen bow ties. “They all looked fab together!” Says a proud Jess, who was every bit the vibrant bride in a gorgeous halter-neck lace dress by Lover and bold flower crown – one of many stunning botanic creations by Gypsy Flora.

While we’re talking flowers, we can’t go past that magnificent arch! Draped in fuschia foxglove and amaranthus, the ceremony backdrop created a stunning focal point for the garden affair. “I’ve always loved lots of colour,” says Jess. “And lots of fresh flowers are just the most beautiful way to achieve it.”

On hand as chief stylist was Jess’ talented sister, Emma Markezic of Marky Knows Best. Recruiting help from far and wide, the sisters styled, sourced and crafted every detail of the colourful day. “We found rugs and cushions from all over the world,” says Jess. “Including the aisle runner – a 10m Turkish rug we found on Ebay for $60.”

We love those bright garlands and the gold fringed photo booth backdrop – also Emma’s handiwork. She and a friend made a trip to Sydney Flower Markets the day before to gather an abundance of colourful flowers for the table arrangements. The hours of toiling certainly paid off, with many guests complimenting the newlyweds on the vibrant setup.

Another memorable element was the food; a seven-hour feast of delicious cocktail fare by the Bush Bank caterers that ensured not a single party-goer went hungry. “Nick and I never ever wanted the formalities of a sit down dinner,” says Jess. “There’s nothing worse than getting stuck with an awkward group at a table for a whole night!” Amen to that.

Photography: The Evoke Company | Bride’s dress: Lover | Bridesmaids dresses: Forever New, ASOS, Black Halo, White Runway | Groom and groomsmen: MJ Bale | Bow ties: Cools | Hair: VH Hair | Makeup: The Bridal Make Up Company | Venue & Catering: Bush Bank | Stylist: Marky Knows Best | Flowers: Gypsy Flora and Sydney Flower Markets | Marquee Hire: Yes Events | Piñatas: Partypony | Celebrant: Marky Knows Best and Jeanette Eadon | Stationery/invitations: Sproullie Designs