Since a formal, regimented wedding sounded terrifying to NSW duo Jess and Michael, a relaxed farm wedding was the way to go, allowing them to feel right at ease. With cuddly animals, vintage styling and a delicious Texas barbeque menu, their Kumbogie Woolshed wedding located in Tamworth suited this couple’s laidback, no-fuss dynamic perfectly. Photographer Ben Sowry captured all the gorgeous details.

Tamworth Event Planners Styling and Designer Bunches Flowers

Taking inspiration from a photo of mismatched vintage chairs, Jess says she began wedding planning with this photo in mind. “I couldn’t find any local vendors who supplied mismatched vintage chairs and since the venue was beautifully rustic on its own, I decided to accessorise with vintage pieces instead,” says Jess. “I found old frames at garage sales, timber crates from second-hand stores and old suitcases from our grandparents.” With amazing taste and impeccable organisational skills, Jess also enlisted help from Bec at Tamworth Event Planners to help bring her her vintage countryside theme to life. “She is completely adaptable to every bride and helps curate a day that is perfect for you,” describes Jess. On florals, Jess couldn’t say enough about Designer Bunches, whose native floral bouquets suited the relaxed, rustic feel of the day. “Eliza and Jan at Designer Bunches are passionate about florals, they made the most amazing bouquets and arrangements that made our wedding photos pop,” says Jess.

Ceremony at Kumbogie Woolshed

Initially, Jess and Michael came close to booking a different venue before Michael decided to pull the pin last minute. After a minor meltdown, Jess says one of Michael’s work colleagues suggested Kumbogie Woolshed. “We both fell in love with the venue, he certainly found the most perfect venue for us,” remembers Jess. “We wanted a relaxed and social wedding, so having the ceremony, photos and reception at the same site was outstanding.” Held in a beautiful garden at Kumbogie Woolshed, the ceremony was styled with old vintage frames as their arbour, stunning native florals and an old Persian rug found off Facebook Marketplace. Despite having her nerves about the wedding ceremony (que images of tripping down the aisle), Jess says it turned out to be one of the highlights of the day, particularly thanks to celebrant Vanessa Dobson. “Vanessa is not only an amazing celebrant but a wonderful human being,” says Jess. “She made the ceremony fun but also calming and heartfelt.”

Photography by Ben Sowry

After discovering Ben Sowry on Instagram, Jess says she fell in love with his relaxed, candid style of photography. “He captured the laughter, the conversations and the embraces,” says Jess. “The first time we met Ben was the morning of our wedding – you would think it would be awkward however, it was like running into a friend we hadn’t seen in years.  I highly recommend Ben he is an amazing artist and an awesome human being.”

The Bride’s Look

Bringing a little Hollywood glam to the country, Jess wore a celestial inspired beaded gown by Willowby paired with an Ashlee Lauren Designs crown and gold jewellery. Starting prep 12 months prior, Jess says Colourist Tayla from Runway Hair and Beauty put in the work to ensure her hair was wedding day ready. “I know that sounds insane, but I wanted the perfect blonde and Runway got me there,” says Jess. Also working from Runway Hair and Beauty, Genevieve Makeup Artistry made certain Jess’ natural features were on show. “I’m someone who doesn’t wear a lot of makeup on a daily basis but I do love having my makeup done for events,” explains Jess. “Genevieve has an eye for perfection and truly knows how to highlight everyone’s natural beauty.”

Reception at Kumbogie Woolshed

Wanting a low-key and relaxed reception, Jess and Michael opted for dinner only a few metres away from their ceremony. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, only the couple could dance, which meant good food would be crucial. Luckily, Jess and Michael tell us their cheese boxes were a hit, and Corey’s Catering had their guests into total food comas! Featuring a Texas barbeque style menu, Corey’s Catering provided an assortment of delicious foods, including chilli poppers, fried chicken, brisket, pulled pork, coleslaw and much more. Jess does however recommend taking time to relax the morning of your wedding and thus avoiding any food preparations! “Michael, my mum, myself and my bridesmaids prepared the cheese boxes that morning,” remembers Jess. “They were delish, but I probably wouldn’t suggest doing that the morning of the wedding!”