A Grand Mansion wedding
Ebony & Paul were married on the 20th April 2013 at one of the most magnificent & grand locations I have ever had the pleasure of officiating a marriage ceremony, Barwon Park Historical Mansion in Winchelsea. The National Trust bluestone Mansion was built in the 1860’s, comprises forty-two rooms and has been faithfully restored to its original condition.
When I first met with Ebony & Paul to discuss their wedding plans I was immediately stuck with the importance they placed on their wedding ceremony. They both wanted it to be the focal point of the day and were keen to be very involved in the process of creating a ceremony, which would reflect their love and the importance of the commitment they were making to each other. Their involvement definitely ensured the ceremony suited them and their grand surroundings perfectly.
They decided their ceremony would take place at the top the very beautiful mansion staircase with all of their guests gathered around the surrounding balcony area. Ebony arrived with her father and bridesmaids in impeccable vintage cars looking beautifully serene and happy in her beautiful vintage gown and long flowing veil. Ebony and her bridesmaids carried elegant gladiola bouquets and their entrance up the grand staircase appeared effortless and was met with smiles of appreciation from Paul and his groomsmen as they arrived.
It was a delight to share their love story with all their guests and to watch them speak their personal wedding vows with such love and sincerity. The importance of family was clearly evident throughout the ceremony with Ebony’s Mother presenting a beautiful reading called ‘Foundations of Marriage’ and Paul’s Mother presenting the introduction to the Family Blessing. All of their parents and grandparents then offered Paul & Ebony their personal blessing one at a time by laying their hands on Paul & Ebony’s joined hands, it was a very special moment to witness and a beautiful acknowledgement of their families. They also honoured their grandfathers by asking them to act as witnesses.
The joyful cheer that went up when they were pronounced husband and wife echoed through the grand mansion. The ceremony concluded with a recessional down the staircase where Ebony & Paul were greeted and congratulated by each and every guest in the entry hall at the foot of the magnificent staircase, it was very fitting way to conclude such a beautiful celebration of love.
Mr. & Mrs. Groten, it was a privilege to play a role in your wedding day. Thank you for allowing me into your lives to enjoy such a grand celebration of love.
Photography by the talented Glen Barton