Kristee and Shane, Friday 1st May 2015
Kristee and Shane’s wedding day.
A day full of special moments shared between the two lovebirds, Croatian Rakia, and undoubtably very entertaining speeches.
Fast forward five years and these two now have two beautiful young kids, Billie and Luka, and a marriage bound by communication and appreciation. They have a busy life, but wouldn’t change it for the world.
How did you meet?
We worked on the same floor and had some mutual friends over the 18 months we spent at the same company. Despite our friends attempting to play match makers, we did not speak to one another throughout that time.
It wasn’t until 6 months after Kristee left the company that our paths crossed again at a bar and we have been inseparable since.
Tell us about the proposal
Cinque Terre, on the pier, during a walk back from a romantic dinner.
It was one week into our European holiday and the following two weeks were spent with Shane’s family in Croatia. So the celebrations were extra special.
Tell us a little about the planning process
We knew what we wanted and thankfully the team at Stones and our vendors helped us pull it all together.
What made you choose Stones of the Yarra Valley?
Stones was the first venue we looked at and nothing else compared after that.
We loved everything from the beautiful driveway lined with trees to the picturesque chapel, The Barn and Stables. We are both food and wine obsessed, and so it was important for us to have delicious food to share with all our friends and family.
What were some of your favourite moments/details on the day?
We were a tad untraditional and had photos taken before the ceremony.
The team at Stones and our photographer Lily helped to make the moment extra special. I still remember Shane hiding behind a tree as I walked from the car and seeing him for the first time as he turned around at the perfect moment was something I will always remember.
We spent an hour or so laughing and walking the ground at Stones whilst Lily captured every single moment.
Having our photos taken beforehand meant that we could enjoy some drinks and share some laughs together as a bridal party, hidden at the back of the Stables while our guests arrived. It was the perfect way to calm our nerves.
Were there any traditions that were important to incorporate?
Shane’s grandfather was born in Croatia and made a bottle of Rakia for each of his grandchildren the year they were born. He gifted the 1982 bottle of Rakia to Shane a few days before our wedding for us to share. It was a beautiful moment watching our family celebrate together.
Are there any funny stories or near disasters?
Shane’s speech was very long and entertaining. He had a few Rakia’s and I remember half way through he paused to check the football scores and provided everyone with an update on who was winning.
Do you have any advice for couples who are currently planning their weddings?
Trust your instincts and don’t over think every single decision. The day will be what you make of it. Just relax, have a laugh and enjoy every single moment.
Where are you now? Living, career, family?
We are a family of four.
We have been blessed with a daughter Billie who just turned 4 and a son Luka who will be 2 in August. We had flights booked at the end of July to take the kids to Croatia for the first time to meet some of Shane’s family, but unfortunately we’ve had to put that holiday on hold. We are living in Bayside and both working full time. Life is busy, but we wouldn’t change a thing.
Any words of wisdom on marriage?
Communication is the key.
Don’t let anything go unsaid. You are a team and are stronger together.
Take the time to stop occasionally and reflect on how far you have both come, what you have achieved and what you are thankful for.
Vendors
Celebrant: Andrew Redman
Photographer: Igotyoubabe
Florist: Flower Jar
Band: Baker Boys
