Couple surprises guests with ‘fake real wedding’

This Brisbane couple had a big surprise for their wedding guests when they stood up to deliver their speeches.

This Gold Coast couple had the ultimate surprise for their wedding guests on the big day – they were already married!

Frustrated with the thought of having to delay their October 2, 2020 wedding due to the pandemic, Megan Newton and Joel Crouch decided to go ahead – in secret.

They had a small wedding in front of 10 people in Megan’s parent’s backyard which they kept under wraps until their “fake real wedding” on March 26 this year.

The Coomera couple – who met in 2017 – had their big wedding at Parkwood Village Weddings in front of 110 guests.

They danced their first dance to Chris Stapleton’s Tennessee Whisky, sung by their wedding singer Ali Crane.

Wedding of Megan Newton and Joel Crouch. Picture: WhiteFox Studios

How did he propose?

The proposal was in Temora, 400km south-west of Sydney, where Joel is from.

We had had a big night out in Canberra with Joel’s friends and then drove two hours to Temora the next day.

Joel took me out to the block of land which they still own and where his father passed away.

Walking through the five acre block I was like, “why is he making me do this, I am so hungover?”

And then I turn around and he is on one knee in front of the tree near where his father passed away.

Very special, and I had no idea.

Digital exclusive: Read Qweekend the day before it’s printed

What was the standout moment of the day?

Announcing that we were already married!

Wedding of Megan Newton and Joel Crouch. Picture: WhiteFox Studios

What would you do differently?

Maybe a little less champagne and a little more food.

What would you spend more or less on?

Nothing, everything we spent money on was worth the amount.

One thing you wish people told you about planning a wedding?

Stress less, have fun and enjoy planning the best day of your life.

Best advice for other couples planning a wedding?

Help each other out, one person can’t do it all!

Wedding of Megan Newton and Joel Crouch. Picture: WhiteFox Studios

Original wedding plans?

October 2, 2020 – we still got married on this date with 10 people.

When did you decide to change plans?

One month out after the borders still weren’t opening and 50 per cent of our wedding guests were interstate.

We changed the date straight away to the next suitable date for us.

Emotions around changing plans?

We were disappointed that we weren’t able to have our day but didn’t want to not have our loved ones there.

Wedding of Megan Newton and Joel Crouch. Picture: WhiteFox Studios

What helped you get through the stress of changing plans?

Friends and family. Megan’s sister was awesome helping her through reorganising everything.

Advice for other couples whose weddings are impacted by Covid?

Your day will come and it will be worth the wait. And if not, get hitched in secret and surprise your friends!