Puppy Love to Soulmates: Som and Thomas’ Maleny Manor Wedding

When Som and Thomas swiped right on each other back in 2016, little did they know that a shared love for dogs would lead them down the aisle to a stunning outdoor wedding at Maleny Manor on 29 September 2023.

With a guest count of 69, their wedding was a meticulously planned celebration that spanned four days, filled with personal touches, lively sports, and, of course, their beloved labradors.

“Our first date was a puppy date at Elwood Dog Park,” Som reminisces. “Thomas was looking after his mate’s dog, and I had my dog. It might have been love at first sight!” Fast forward through career moves and the addition of another furry member to their family, the couple’s bond only grew stronger. When the time came, Thomas proposed with a natural yellow diamond ring that Som had a hand in designing. “The proposal was a chance for Thomas to do it in front of our family and friends post-COVID and to celebrate,” Som shares.

Som, a Project Manager by profession, leveraged her skills in planning to create the perfect wedding day. “I have always dreamt of an outdoor ceremony and reception,” she explains. Maleny Manor, with its all-inclusive experience, allowed them to have their ceremony and reception in one place, making it convenient for their guests who flew in from various parts of Australia. “Maleny was the perfect outdoor wedding venue which allowed us to coordinate all of our vendors with ease,” Som adds.

The ceremony took place on the elevated grass helipad at Maleny Manor, under a perfect sunny spring sky. Decorated with white orchids, baby’s breath, and floor candles, the setting was nothing short of romantic. Som’s entrance was marked by Elton John’s “Your Song,” performed live as she walked down the aisle with both her parents, followed by her bridesmaids and bridesmen.

The reception continued on the Upper Lawn, where guests were greeted by a champagne tower and sophisticated tablescapes, featuring white floral arrangements and ghost modern chairs. “Our bridal party was introduced to ‘I Gotta Feeling’ by The Black Eyed Peas, and the night continued with great food, heartfelt speeches, and lively dancing,” describes Som.

Looking back, Som wouldn’t change a thing. “Everything went so smoothly, and it was a perfect day,” she reflects. From the personalised touches like signature drinks and including their dogs in the ceremony, to the seamless organization of the entire weekend, Som and Thomas ensured their wedding was a memorable celebration for everyone involved.

We chose Maleny Manor because it offered an all-exclusive experience where we can have our fur babies and our Ceremony and reception in one place. Making it convenient for our guests which 98% flew in from WA, NQ, ACT and Melbourne. At the time, we were living in NQ and little did we know that we would be purchasing our first home down in the Sunshine Coast prior to our wedding date. This was perfect!

Som & Thomas

This elegant wedding was captured beautifully by Blumenthal Photography.

Photos courtesy of Blumenthal Photography.

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