The first thing I did when I woke up was to check the weather. The forecast was a rainy day and I was hoping that there could be a chance that this might change. Oh well, it’s still looking like it would be a wet day.
Matthew and Corrina are to be wed at the historic Quarantine Station in Manly. It offers beautiful panoramic views of Sydney Harbour and is located within the Sydney Harbour National Park. It has a rich history and was first used in the 1830’s to isolate people suspected to be carrying contagious diseases. Currently, the place is also famous for it’s ghost tours! This would definitely be a unique assignment.
There is a bit of a complication getting to the wedding venues as you are not allowed to bring your vehicle inside the Q Station. You have to ride a service bus that periodically runs within the premises. I was a bit anxious about this as I normally would like to be ahead of schedule on each location that I shoot. Thankfully, there was enough time and the bus wait wasn’t that long.
My day started at the Q Station were Matthew was preparing. Then we headed to the South Steyne Hotel at Manly were Corrina is getting ready. Afterwards, I have to return to the Q Station again for the ceremony. The wedding ceremony was at the wharf and looks fantastic. We were a bit lucky as the rain only started after the ceremony. Until this stage, it was nice and sunny and I was feeling optimistic that the forecast was wrong. I guess, I wasn’t lucky.
Our location shoot was supposed to be inside the station but because of the rain, we decided to just proceed to Manly Beach. Despite the difficulties, with umbrellas and some break from the rain, we managed to have a good photo session. We have to return to the Q Station again for the reception.
The reception was at the Governor’s house. According to our bus driver, the house is standing on an area that used to be a graveyard! It’s a good thing that I never saw anything paranormal but just wonderful guests all having a great time.
Matthew and Corrina’s wedding was a very enjoyable affair and somewhat unique. Where else can you find a wedding reception were the emcee is dressed as a Minion (from the Despicable Me movie). Apparently, Corrina adores the character. When the event concluded, the bus driver who was taking us back to the parking station decided to tell us some ghost stories. I tell you what, it was a very interesting ride. It actually kept me awake while I was driving home 🙂
I was told that Matthew is set to join the Australian Navy to serve our country. I’d like to thank my couple for being such a great host. I wish them all the best with their married life!
Dodie Labial is a Sydney Wedding Photographer and heads the team at Expert Photography
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