Sometimes there appears to be an extra guest at a wedding that noone realises was invited. They’re looking mighty fine, they’re in all of the photographs and everyone is so glad they’re there, but they weren’t on the invitation list. We think you’ll agree that the port city is that guest in this wedding. Fremantle is looking lovely. But nowhere near as delightful and dapper as newlyweds Fiona and Michael.

Their heartfelt family affair took place in Merv Cowan Park against the backdrop of the port. Michael’s stepmother, celebrant Tamara Lampard, conducted the ceremony which included a handfasting ritual. The bride’s and groom’s hands were bound together in a tartan ribbon as they tied the knot – a Scottish tradition that references both Fiona and Michael’s family’s ancestry. They described the handfasting as “representing the coming together of our families and the strength of our bond.”

Fiona said, “All of our wedding guests were ‘VIPs’. We were particularly blessed and grateful that so many of our close friends could make it across Australia from Canberra, Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney. It was very humbling and made our day so special that so many family and friends could attend.” 

Their ceremony was followed by photographs taken in the streets of Fremantle and on the docks of the historic city, to be followed by a restaurant reception on the river. Even the song chosen for their first dance together as husband and wife spoke of a sense of place – Busby Marou’s version of Crowded House’s ‘Better Be Home Soon’.

We thank Fiona and Michael and their photographer of aceness, Peggy Saas, for sharing their beautiful day with us.

| Venue: Ceremony at Merv Cowan Park, followed by a reception at The Red Herring in East Fremantle, Western Australia | Photography: Peggy Saas Photography with second photographer Flossy | Celebrant: the groom’s stepmother Tamara Lampard | Wearables: Fiona wore gown by Samantha Wynne, headpiece by Holly Young Headwear, earrings by Kate Spade and shoes by Pink by Paradox. Michael wore suit by Australian Formal Wear. The bridesmaid wore gown by George. The groomsmen wore suits by Australian Formal Wear. Hair by Refinery Hair Design. Makeup by Frida Vaughan of Studio Noir Makeup Artistry. | Blooms, styling and hire items: Poppy’s Flowers | Wedding cake: Velvety Treats by Lyn Falantin |  Stationery: Wedding Paper Divas | Vehicles: Deluxe Chauffeured Cars | Entertainment: acoustic guitar by Lee Schneider and DJ Tom Drummond of Western Sounds