I woke up this morning, and things were a little hazy. Trust me, it had absolutely nothing to do with turning another year older, but more from the kick-ass party I had on Saturday night!!

I had decided long ago I was not going to let 30 quietly roll around. There ain’t a whole lot you can do about it, so why not celebrate it in style! On Saturday evening, about 85 off my closest friends, family, clients and industry peeps gathered at The Fox for what was one of the most memorable evenings of my life to date.

Some big thankyou’s go out to firstly Matt & Nikki from The Photobooth People for getting the awesome photobooth up to the rooftop. It was a HUGE hit and really made the night what it was. Extra thankyou’s to Debbie Thomas for being the “keeper of the booth” (aka “booth bitch”) and trying to flog everyones second strip to give to me to keep! The good news (or in some cases, not so good news) is I’ll be receiving a lovely disc of all the hijinks that went on inside the booth. And yes, I will accept bribes for the images to not go public!!!

Sarah-Jane from Cake That truly went above and beyond to provide the birthday cake that completely knocked everyones socks off. The ENTIRE bottom tier was completely devoured on the night, and the general consensus was that it was the best cake they have ever tasted. I would be inclined to agree. If you didn’t get yourself a piece, you really did miss out. There’s a very good reason why Sarah-Jane is the only cake maker I recommend!

My heartfelt thanks goes to my friends Melissa and Ema for providing my hair and makeup, and to my best friend in the world Kelly for manning the door and greeting the guests with grace and style!

I also need to thank the one and only Mr Alex Kennison from Savvy Studios for being the official photographer for the night. As well as being a guest, Alex worked tirelessly to capture images that I will treasure always. Thank you Alex xxx.

Finally to everyone who came out and celebrated with me under instructions to “Drink Snelly Dry”, thankyou for helping make it a night I will not forget. xxx

Here are some of Alex’s images (that are rated G and fit for public consumption!!)…

Todd & Alyda hanging out with Chris & Sonia…

My sister Constable Plod (centre) with her entourage…

Me and Poo…

And with my Mum…

My best friend in life, Kelly…

 Ben & Jussy together with Tony & Cathy…

George & Mira with Kim & Dusan…

The awesome Alex & Alicia…

Former next-door neighbour, travel buddy, landlord, and good friend Karen Devereux, and her partner Tony…

The always entertaining Kym Berry… 

My old Telstra crew…

Juanita & Clarky…

The person who has been taking up a lot of my time lately, my boyfriend Tony…

Lisa shares a laugh with Jan & Anne…

Laydes & Jussy…

The most awesomest 30th birthday cake ever by Sarah-Jane…

I just love how well Sarah-Jane knows me. “Little Toni” on the top of the cake was me all over!!…

It was really a shame to cut it….

But it was AMAZING to eat!! I keep getting comments about how good the cake was. Here I am with the cake’s creator….

I got my cake, and got to eat it too!!…..

If you’ve been around this blog long enough, you’ll know I have these two friends Richard & Courtney. A few years ago these two friends got together, fell in love, got engaged, got married (their outtakes are my favourite), and occasionally still model for me! So it may not come as any suprise that these two have gone on to have a baby. And her name is Lily Grace.

If I’ve said it once, I’ve said it a thousand times - I am not a childrens photographer. I can’t do the things my good friend Kym Berry does with kids. I can’t do the naked on the sheepskin rug, with the gorgeous little bobble hats. I wouldn’t know where to start, and besides, it’s just not me. What I do love doing, is getting up there to that hospital in the first 24 hours or so, and just spending about a little time taking photos of whatever the hell is happening at that point in time. It’s no Anne Geddes, but it’s real, and it’s heartfelt, and its a record of what it was like when life began for this precious little person.

Lily’s very own slideshow….

I love this photo. It reminds me of a similar picture I saw on a billboard on Corro Drive of a screaming baby. It was an advert for a fertility clinic, and had the tagline of “for some parents this is the most beautiful face they’ve ever seen”. Only once I saw what Richard & Courtney had to go through to get Lily here, did I understand…

Aunty Toni brought Lily a special present she picked up in New York in November. This made Aunty Toni very popular……

SHAM-WOW! That’s about the only word I have to describe Bruce & Jacqueline’s wedding. It’s still so hard to believe that I only met these guys on the day of their wedding. Let me explain.

Bruce & Jacqueline have been living and working in China for some time now, and planned their entire wedding over the internet. No visits back and forth to check details, just putting their faith in the world wide web, and flying in three days before the wedding. And it couldn’t of been executed more perfectly!

The best thing that any bride can do in this situation is book quailty vendors who you can trust to pull the day together for you. Jacqueline did just that. Danielle Robinson was in charge of making the girls look beautiful, Karen from Bliss Floral provided the bouquets, Ken & Robyn from Kenz Classic drove the cars, and the always delightful Sarah-Jane from Cake That! served up a four tiered creation that was just to die for. These guys all read like a who’s who of my preferred vendors, because I’ve worked with them all - multiple times - and they are amazing at what they do.

We walked in to the suite at the Stamford to meet the bride I’ve been emailing for the best part of a year. Instantly, I knew she was my kind of bride. Our sense of humours were very similar, she was gorgeous, and was not afraid to “work it” to get the shots we wanted. It was a match made in heaven.

It was then around to St Stephens Cathedral, where I met Bruce and the boys, and the day just continued to get better. Bruce & Jacqueline couldn’t have picked a cooler bridal party to surround themselves with on the day. The guys and girls were hilarious and kept the mood going all afternoon, and well and truly into the night.

The storm clouds began to gather after the ceremony, and it was only a matter of time before we were going to be wet. Very wet. But my rule is until that rain falls (and I mean REALLY falls), we continue to work. We’d already been up to Bowen Terrace, and was then down at Tenneriffe when we were running close to the wire. Jacqueline had one eye on the approaching storm but we kept forging on until I finally called it, and we took shelter in a nearby bar. Not being one to waste time, I managed to sweet-talk the bar staff into letting us shoot inside until the rain had passed and we could go outside again.

Once it eased off, Poo retreived the umbrellas from the boot of my car, and it was back into the street for some more photos. Big thankyous go to the best man, known only as The Silver Fox, for working tirelessly on being the “Umbrella Boy” and providing shelter for Bruce & Jacqueline so we could still get some photos out in the rain.

I got to stick around and enjoy the reception at The Stamford, where there was one hell of a party! We really had the best day getting to know Bruce & Jacq and I cannot thank them enough for trusting me to be a part of their day. xxx

A new favourite slideshow of mine…

When you book Danielle Robinson and she brings Bec Narvaez on hair, it’s pretty much a winning combination….

Two of the most grown up, well behaved, and not to mention gorgeous flower girls/junior bridesmaids ever….

This little fella was adorable, but I would love to know what his Dad was saying to him here…

A final shot with the happy couple….

Andrew & Claire’s wedding was exciting for so many reasons. It was my last wedding before I left for New York, and unofficially it was my last wedding for the year. Technically I did have one more to shoot in December, but I kind of thought of that as being my first wedding for 2010. In any case, I was determined to go out with a bang, and Andrew and Claire stepped up to the plate.

From the leadup to Andrew & Claire’s wedding, it had become very clear that we shared a very similar sense of humour, and that our day would be spent in fits of laughter. What I love most about Claire is her no nonsense, no bullshit kind of attitude. Plus, she’s cheeky. So of course we got along like a house on fire. Claire didn’t flinch when I suggested fixing a wardrobe issue by hacking at her underwear with a pair of scissors. She let me in there with those babies, and I went to town. Yes, Claire rocks.

Andrew, Andrew, Andrew. He would have to be one of the most hilarious people I’ve ever met. He had me in stitches right from the word go, and the quips and wisecracks didn’t stop for the rest of the day. But that’s Andrew. Always the class clown, but a huge heart underneath, you just can’t help but laugh around him.

The wedding was held at Pacific Harbour at Bribie Island, on what was a perfect November afternoon. It was rather an intimate gathering, made even more interesting that both Andrew’s brother, and Claire’s sister are married to eachother. It was then I realised just why the day had that close-knit family feel.

We then headed out onto the golf course for some fun and hijinks, before heading down with Claire & Andrew to the waterfront where we were treated to a spectacular sunset (I think they ordered it specially!)

I had the great pleasure of getting to kick back and enjoy the reception, and experience Andrew & Claire’s heartfelt hospitality (Poo is still talking about the Scotch you guys kept sending him!). By the end of this day, if I didn’t already know Andrew & Claire, it became abundantly clear that these guys are very special people, so kind and giving, and very generous to people close to them.

And lets not forget FREAKIN HILARIOUS!!!! Love you guys xxx

Andrew & Claire organised a fireworks show to kick the festivities off for the evening…

Check out the slideshow…

This was our take on that god awful “groomsmen holding up the bride shot”. It failed. And there’s a good reason for that. The photo is ridiculous and anyone still shooting it should be embarrassed for themselves….

This party was crankin’!!!!….

Judging by the look on Claire’s face, I call this one “Get off my chair, bitch!”…

Andrew cracked me up all day…..

A year ago I was invited to a Christmas party of a friend of mine. At this Christmas party I sat next to a lovely girl called Louise, who upon hearing about what I did for a living, asked me if I could fix her camera as all of her photos were coming out blue. And so I did.(I’m no tech, but turns out that switching WB from Tungsten to Auto will stop people looking like smurfs!). 

What I didn’t know was that after that meeting, a little less than a year later, I was going to get to spend an amazing day photographing the wedding of two soul mates.

Natalie and I headed up the coast to Louise’s Mums house where the girls had been enjoying a very relaxing morning getting ready for the day ahead. Louise would have to be one of the most calm, relaxed, stress-free brides I have ever had the pleasure to be around. If she was nervous, she definately wasn’t showing it. She looked absolutely radiant, which was totally obvious through the lens.

Chris and his boys were a bloody cheeky bunch!! You really had to keep an eye on them! They were, however, nothing short of hilarious - never missing the opportunity to make a joke at someone elses expense. My kind of people, really. Chris was adorable though, wanting to make sure that I got some photos of him looking hot! (Standard answer - yes Chris, you’re smokin’!!).

The wedding took place at the Novotel Twin Waters, where most of the guests were staying, which made for a really relaxed fun feel to the day. Weddings in locations such as this let guests feel like their on a holiday, even just for a weekend, and adds to the festive mood.

After the ceremony it was on to the golf buggies, and straight out to the beach, where the wind was blowing a gale. Despite being self confessed “amatuers” in front of the camera, Chris & Louise shone just by being themselves. They are both two of the most down to earth people you could hope to meet, and have such a beautiful connection that is obvious to anyone around them.

It was then time to get back over to the Novotel for the reception at Lily’s on the Lagoon. It was an all dancing entrance for Chris, Louise & the bridal party, which set the scene for the rest of the evening. This crowd knew how to party. There wasn’t a moment when the dancefloor wasn’t completely packed. Even at midnight, the guests had to almost be kicked out of the restaurant by the staff.

Chris, Louise - thank you for having me along for the ride. I can’t ask for more than to get to spend an amazing day with such kind, genuine, and selfless people as yourselves. You really helped make the end of the year go out with a bang! xxx

Such a lovely little slideshow….

I have three words for you boys…….on.the.internet….I warned you!

Whenever I see this photo I can’t help but think…..”Welcome to the Starlight Ballroom ♫♫ fly me to the moon ♫♫…..”

Right now, as we speak, I’m sitting airside at the Brisbane International Airport with my beautiful friend Justine, awaiting our flight to New York City!!  

What began as a simple idea, has now become reality, as we head off for two weeks in the Big Apple. No plans, no agenda. Just two chicks, their cameras, and their dancing shoes!

Unlike previous adventures, I will not be blogging the trip whilst I am away. Reflecting on my last couple of holidays, far too much time was spent in a hotel room working on the computer so my mother could get her latest updates on what I was doing. I figure the odd mobile upload on Facebook or Twitter here or there should keep her happy.

See you in two weeks! In the meantime, the cool stylings of Mr Billy Joel are here to keep you company….

Towards the end of last month, Poo and I stepped out, and photographed the wedding of Karl & Kylie.

Our day kicked off at the Treasury Hotel where the girls were getting ready, although hair and makeup had other ideas, running well behind schedule. It was a tense time, we cut it very very fine, but fortunately my ability to lace a bride into a dress in under 3 minutes gained us back a bit of time!

The ceremony was held at the Pacific Golf Club at Carindale, and Karl was waiting for his bride albeit very very nervous. However, once Kylie made it to the end of the aisle, there was no sign of the nerves that had bothered Karl earlier. Just a massive grin.

With an already overcast day, we had to move quickly, and head into the city for photos at Captain Burke Park and Kangaroo Point. There was champagne, laughs, and fun in the sand. Just how an afternoon should be!

As quick as we arrived, it was straight back in the limo to return out to Carindale, where the party was waiting to happen!

Check out more in the slideshow….

A year ago tomorrow, I was so fortunate to photograph the wedding of two very special people, Mark & Ashlynn. Since then I have been taken into their lives, having family dinners, going away for the weekend, and being there as Ash joined a family very close to my heart, the Queensland Police Service.

Ash’s parents celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary in October, and of course I jumped at the chance to be able to capture the celebrations. The festivites took place on the river at Venice Bar & Restaurant in the city, beginning with an intimate ceremony which Peter & Carolyn’s family all participated in. With just close friends and family in attendance, Peter & Carolyn re-affirmed their committment to eachother.

What I love most about these two, is that even now, 25 years later, they still look at eachother like a smitten young couple who have just met. It was just like photographing a couple of teenagers in love and who didn’t want to take their eyes off eachother. We wandered around the river until just after dark, where we then went back to enjoy a beautiful dinner, and spectacular entertainment that even had passers by stopping to watch.

Peter & Carolyn, being around you and your family feels like home. Thankyou for having me share in this celebration with you, and for always making me feel so loved and appreciated. xxx

Carolyn proves you can still be sexy at any age….

You can see a little more in the slideshow…

It’s not often I will shoot three weddings in a row. Two I can do in my sleep. But three takes a carefully executed combination of Red Bull, coffee, more Red Bull, and sleeping with your feet elevated. But it’s totally worth it.

October (along with May) this year, seemed to be the month for weddings. Sunday morning saw Poo & I headed out to shoot Matthew & Kylie’s wedding, our third for the weekend.

Much like Craig & Angelique’s wedding two days before, we were going to be back at Hillstone St Lucia for Matthew & Kylie’s wedding. It also turned out, rather coincidentally, that Craig & Matthew have an aunt in common, who was attending both weddings that weekend. Kylie & Matthew were originally referred to me by previous couple Kris & Amanda. I then discovered earlier this year that I know Matthew’s future sister-in-law Sarah, who works with my sister. And then just last week, one of my previous brides Mandy recognised the back of my head in some photos on Facebook. The number of people we have in common seems to be growing by the day!

When it comes to a wedding day, you can plan and plan to the nth degree, but the one thing you can’t plan for, is the weather. However in my opinion, as long as there isn’t a cyclone, or a flood, then you’re ahead. And even then, I still reckon I could do something with that. Bad weather doesn’t frighten me the way it did 5 or 10 years ago.

The weather did seem to conspire against us, but the staff at Hillstone have a wet weather plan up their sleeve. The ceremony was moved from the rose garden to the verandah of the Rosewood Room. The look on Matthew’s face as Kylie walked down the aisle was one of pride. You could just tell that he was so proud to stand beside her, to be her husband, and for her to be his wife.

UQ usually serves as a good wet weather backup, which was handy as we were headed there anyway! Fortunately for us though, the rain didn’t make much of an appearance for the rest of the afternoon. We only had about an hour to spare, but these guys rocked it!

Back over at Hillstone, for the second time for the weekend, I then put together the same day slideshow for Matthew & Kylie to enjoy with their friends. My weekend was then over. I was completely exhausted, but it was totally worth it!

Poo caught these ones that I love….

Time for the slideshow…

Fantabulous DJ Peter Hearnden of Paramount Events…

Congratulations on your engagement Sarah!!!…..

The happy couple….