TARA & DAVE
at Core Cider Housephotos by Pete The Photographer
As guests arrived, immediately seeking refuge from the sun under trees, Lauren and I began to set the mood with a pre-ceremony acoustic set. I can testify though that the moment Tara and her bridesmaids walked down the aisle to “Dreams,” the sweltering 40° day became the last thing on everyone’s mind.
These two said ‘I do’ in front of Core Cider House’s dreamy Dragon Fly Ponds. The ponds lent an ethereal backdrop to the ceremony, making acoustic tunes the right call as to not spoil the serenity.
Tara was set on “Brown Eyed Girl” for the signing song, even though her eyes are green. Quick fix. Personalised lyrics are a great way to make these moments your own.
No better way to send them on their way than Rusted Roots “Send Me On My Way”. A classic, but stripped back to fit the vibe. The bridal party strut back down the aisle and we strummed some upbeat tunes as hugs were shared.
Packing up and following Tara and Dave’s friends and fam, we migrated to the Harvest Room, treating guests to another 45 minutes of acoustic tunes and aircon… and cider, of course.
Friends and fam grabbed their drinks and brought their conversations to the Terrace for reception while the sky turned purple, the hills turned orange and the cool air brought visible relief to sweaty faces. Core Cider House at this time of day is pretty magical.
I then jumped on the decks to get the vibes cooking, ready for the bridal entrance. Tara and Dave assigned Italian classics to each pair in the bridal party and the entrance quickly turned bridal showdown. Friendly competition is always healthy!
K & J - ♪ Ce la luna ♪
C & C - ♪ Tu vuo’ fa’ l’americano ♪
M & D - ♪ Tarantella ♪
M & A - ♪ Mambo Italiana ♪
Tara & Dave - ♪ That’s Amore ♪
The sun disappeared behind the hill as we serenaded guests over dinner. It was nice to have a chance to play for the couple too as the stress of the day simmered.
Speeches followed and Tara and Dave picked intro songs to make the long walk to the mic more stylish. Just a few of their choices were Saweetie and Doja Cat’s “Best Friend”, “You’ve Got a Friend In Me” by Randy Newman and “I Look Good” by O.T. Genasis for the Bride and Groom.
Tara danced with her Dad first, flowing into her dance with Dave. She’d found great, stripped-back versions of “Stand By Me” and Prince’s “Purple Rain” which I played for those moments, before everyone joined in and the vibes cranked up a notch. The rest of the night was danced away to their fav 90’s and naughtie’s nostalgia hits, plus all your other classic party tracks.
“Dave and I can’t thank you enough for looking after us on our wedding day. We are so glad we chose you guys, you sound amazing together and absolutely nailed our acoustic requests and you did such an amazing job with all our other requests Rhyan honestly thank you so much.
I know you guys also did more than you were required to do with live singing and we really can’t thank you enough. Our family were so impressed with you guys and really loved your vibe.
I don’t want to get married again, but I kinda wish we could experience it all over again, it was such an amazing day. You guys were amazing and I really hope your business continues to grow, couples will be so lucky to have you!!”