Some couples complement each other so well that they just seem like they were always meant to be together. Lauren and Joel are two of the kindest, caring people that we have photographed and are naturals in front of Iain’s camera – both at their engagement session at Mornington and their Frankston/Mordialloc wedding.
They first met as co-workers at AMC Cinemas in Frankston. Joel admits there was an immediate attraction but Lauren was 15 and he was 20 at the time, so Joel realised “a few more pre-seasons were required”! Fast forward six years and the pair reconnected at a friend’s 21st birthday party and really got to know each other. “I remember he said that we should catch up but I just thought he was just trying to wrap up the conversation,” Lauren remembers. “I told him he had my details on Facebook, and the next day I got a message!”
Another six years later and the Qantas pilot and Grade 1 teacher declared their love for one another at George Pentland Botanic Gardens in Frankston, where Joel proposed with a surprise picnic last year. Although it was obvious from their beaming smiles, celebrant Wendy McRae shared with everyone exactly what Lauren and Joel love about each other: Joel loves Lauren’s caring and compassionate nature, her honesty and her loyalty. Lauren says Joel is incredibly compassionate, honest, hardworking and hilarious: “I love that no matter where I am, I am ‘home’ with him.”
After the emotional ceremony, we wandered around the Botanic Gardens for some photos before the wind picked up and took Lauren’s veil with it! So we headed to the warmth of Windows by the Bay in Mordialloc for their reception. Known for its stunning 180-degree views of the bay and delicious food, Windows was the perfect choice for a laid-back, yet classy reception.
Lauren and Joel, it’s been an absolute pleasure working with you and getting to know and share your love story. Best of luck for your future together, filled with lots of exciting adventures and hopefully two mini dachshunds named Henry and Hugo J
Lauren and Joel’s Dream Team: Reception: Windows on the Bay | Celebrant: Wendy McRae | Dress: Brides of Melbourne | Flowers: Niddrie Flowers | Cake: The Cake Cottage
