A Waterfront Wedding Full of Love at St George Motor Boat Club, Sans Souci – Joanne & Ben

Wedding Date: 20th March 2025
Photography: Natalie Grounds Photography
Venue: St George Motor Boat Club, Sans Souci

When Joanne met Ben on a dating site (shout out to POF – Plenty of Fish), little did they know they’d one day become Mr and Mrs Gavin, saying “I do” by the water at the beautiful St George Motor Boat Club in Sans Souci. Their love story has been full of heartfelt moments, and their wedding day was no exception.

The Proposal

Ben proposed in true romantic fashion – in a little spot called The Mouse’s House in the Gold Coast hinterlands, surrounded by the peaceful beauty of the mountains. It was quiet, intimate, and unforgettable – the kind of setting that makes your heart skip a beat.

Planning a Wedding from Afar

Organising a wedding from another state isn’t easy, but Joanne made it work with a trusty checklist that kept her on track. The couple chose St George Motor Boat Club not only for its stunning waterfront views but also because the venue offered such an inclusive package – a dream come true for a bride planning from Queensland.

“The venue had everything we needed, and I loved the ease of it all,” said Joanne. “It meant I could actually enjoy the process instead of feeling overwhelmed.”

A DIY Wedding Full of Heart

One of the standout elements of this Sans Souci wedding was just how personal and handmade it was. Joanne, Ben, and their loved ones put their hands (and hearts) into creating elements for the big day – from table arrangements to bouquets. It wasn’t just a budget-saver, but a chance for friends and family to bond.

“There were so many moments in the lead-up where we were just laughing, crafting, and enjoying the excitement together,” said Joanne.

The morning of the wedding was full of beautiful surprises too. Joanne’s maid of honour created personalised bags for her and her daughters – complete with PJs, slippers, and sparkly cups – and a family member even made breakfast while the girls got their hair and makeup done. It was a morning of calm, love, and anticipation.

A Ceremony Full of Meaning

Ben & Joanne’s St George waterfront wedding ceremony was intimate and deeply personal. Ben’s step-sister acted as the celebrant (Ceremonies by Cassandra) Joanne’s children were also part of the ceremony – making it a true family affair.

“There was so much love surrounding us. It wasn’t just a wedding – it was a celebration of everything and everyone who matters most to us.”

And when came the first look (5 mins before the ceremony). Standing on the marina, Joanne walked toward Ben. When he turned to see her, his eyes welled up.

“He said, ‘Babe, you look stunning,’ and I’ll never forget that moment. It was everything.”

A Reception with Heart

From the speeches to the dancing, the reception was full of laughter and gratitude. One of the most emotional highlights was having Ben’s aunty there – a loved one currently battling health issues. “Having her there was incredibly special. We felt so lucky.”

With Greg Wall providing the music and Belinda Gavin helping the morning run smoothly (and later, taking on the role of MC), the reception flowed seamlessly. The cake, crafted by Di Whittaker, was the perfect sweet touch.

Joanne and Ben’s St George Motor Boat Club wedding was everything a wedding should be – full of real moments, real people, and a whole lot of love. From the Gold Coast to Sans Souci, their journey has been one of connection, joy, and community.

Congratulations Mr and Mrs Gavin – your day was as beautiful as the love you share.

Joanne and Bens’s Wedding Dream Team:

• Venue: St George Motor Boat Club, Sans Souci

• Photography: Natalie Grounds Photography

• Celebrant: Ceremonies by Cassandra

• Cake: Di Whittaker

• Hair & Makeup: Bellissima Beauty 

• Music: Greg Wall

• Support Crew: MOH and Joanne’s kids

• MC: Belinda Gavin