The start of the drive from Toowoomba to Gordon Country was through rain and fog (classic Toowoomba) but by the time I arrived at this sensational venue, I was being delivered a perfect cloudy every-photographer’s-dream-soft-light conditions. Gordon Country is nestled in amongst the majestic grass trees and eucalypts characterising the landscape of the Glen Rock State Forest, south of Toowoomba, the barn and surrounds immaculately kept. I was impressed.
I hadn’t seen Danielle for many years, let alone met her about-to-be husband Dan, I was so excited, I was a good 2 hours early lol. Danielle is an absolute delight, as she was when she spent some time teaching my 2 youngest kids when they were doing Distance Ed more than 15 years ago. After she left us she went to Uni to study accounting and embarked on a journey of successful positions as Financial Accountant for various companies and found herself in NSW. After a time she decided to return to QLD though just as this decision was made she met Dan at the pub in Mudgee and he had other ideas! Danielle never did get back to QLD, despite telling Dan she wasn’t looking for a serious relationship. Yeah sure.
They tied the knot last week with 100 of their fav people as witnesses. It was a fun, happy and laid-back day, which is pretty much how you would describe the bride and groom. You only have to read the responses below for a preamble of the life that Danielle & Dan will create together…We both think we are the lucky one in our marriage!
They clearly make one hell of a partnership and I know will forge a marvellous future on this adventure of life together.
How did you two meet and what were your first impressions?
Danielle: handsome, sweet, and funny (with a decent side of nerves)
Dan: cracking sort with red lipstick
How did he/she propose?
Quiet Friday night at home after Dan had been away working for a couple of weeks. We had been talking about getting married for awhile, Dan had asked my Dad 5 months earlier, and he had bought the sapphire for my ring (a Qld sapphire for his Qld girl).
What do you love most about each other?
Danielle: He is my biggest cheerleader and my favourite person. He is kind and sweet, and also ambitious and driven. He makes me want to be the best version of myself.
Dan: She is amazing in every way. She spoils me, and is willing to give anything a go. We want the same things out of life and every day we have together is a good one.
I'd love to hear one special memory of your courtship...
After a stint of reasonably long distance dating and dodging covid border closures, we spent harvest working together. Dan taught Danielle how to drive a header for his contracting business, and we spent 2.5 months working together basically around the clock, living in a caravan, with never enough sleep and in some high pressure situations. It was relationship defining – we absolutely loved it, didn’t get sick of each other, and didn’t argue. We knew what we had was pretty special after that experience, and Danielle moved back to NSW not long after.
What Does Marriage Mean To You?
Marriage means a partnership in life and love, working together creating our shared dreams a reality while remaining our own people. We both think we are the lucky one in our marriage!
What was the main inspiration behind your wedding day?
Country, rustic and laidback. We wanted a day and night with our favourite people for a good party, with minimal stress. We nailed it!
How would you describe your day? How did you feel?
We were both so excited and happy. The day was even better than we imagined it could be! It was so special to have everyone together in such a beautiful venue to celebrate our love.
What was your favourite part of the wedding day?
Our favourite part was the first look. It was so incredibly special to share that moment with our bridal party and close friends, before saying our I do’s.
Were there any surprises or honourable mentions you’d like to talk about?
Everyone travelled so far (domestically as far as from the Gulf of Qld and Victoria, and internationally from Cambodia) to celebrate with us. We feel so loved!
How does it feel to be Mr & Mrs?!
Pretty bloody good! Very excited for the next chapter of our life together.
Bride’s dress: Ferrari Formal Wear & Bridal
Veil: borrowed from Maree (Danielle’s maid of honour and best friend since high school)
Groom’s outfit: Jacket – Ferrari Formal Wear & Bridal
Pants & belt – R M Williams
Shirt – Connor
Maid of honour & groomsmaid: sourced own dresses
Best man and bridesman: Jackets – Ferrari Formal Wear & Bridal
Pants & belts – R M Williams Shirts – Connor
Makeup: Donna’s Beauty Loft
Hair: The Mixx
Shoes: Charley Boutique
Rings & Jewellery: Lados Jewellery
Flowers: Flowers By Helena
Cake: Bo & Co
Celebrant: Lizzie McCurley (Dan’s cousin)
Caterer: Paper & Plate Hospitality Services
DJ/music: Ceremony – Sammi Cheal (really good friend & past housemate of Danielle’s) & Kyle Burgess @cactimoon_
Reception – Brad & Brodie
Master of Ceremonies: John Barber (good friend) @johnstagram307
Venue: Gordon Country
