‘I tried to fit the ring into my jeans’: Groom’s awkward proposal moment
From the groom’s awkward proposal to a Facebook Marketplace hack and Greek traditions, this West End couple shares their journey to their wedding “celebration”.
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It was a celebration filled with family, traditions and dancing for Jacinta Wild and Harrison Kennedy.
The West End couple, who have been together for seven years, tied the knot on May 20 this year at Ocean View Estates, 45 minutes north of Brisbane, before 90 guests.
Among the highlights were Greek traditions, with the mother-of-the-groom’s family being Greek, including reception coin-tossing, Zorba dancing and sweet Greek treats.
How did you meet? At a mutual friend’s birthday party at a bar. Harrison offered Jacinta a beer, but she declined as she doesn’t like beer. Jacinta then reached out on social media to ask Harrison for coffee at UQ, and the rest is history.
The proposal? Harrison: We were on holiday at Noosa, which I had decided would be a good spot to propose. We booked a dinner and had to walk there from the accommodation. I tried to fit the ring into my jeans but realised that with the box it was super obvious. The only option I had was to wear a jumper which would cover my pocket. The problem was it was summer. Jacinta questioned multiple times why I was wearing a jumper when it was so hot. I kept telling her I was cold. After the restaurant, we walked on the beach but it started to rain. I convinced her to keep going. I was getting nervous. I got on one knee and asked her to marry me. She said yes.
How did you choose your wedding venue? We wanted the ceremony and reception in the same place and accommodation on site. The staff were very helpful with planning and it was beautiful for photos. Plus it was 45 minutes from Brisbane, close enough for guests to drive home if they wanted, but it felt like we were out of the city!
What was the budget for your wedding? $30k
How did you choose your wedding dress? Jacinta: I went to three stores and Brides of Brisbane was the last one! I knew I wanted an A-line dress I just hadn’t found the perfect one. As soon as I put the dress on, I just knew instantly that it was the perfect one for me.
What were your thoughts on seeing Jacinta for the first time? Harrison: How beautiful she looked in her dress and then how happy I was that this moment was finally actually happening.
Any unique or surprising details about your wedding? We did have three Greek traditions in the wedding (Harrison’s mum’s family is Greek). One was throwing coins at the bride and groom during the first dance, and another one was everyone dancing to Zorba in traditional Greek style. I think every guest was up dancing to the Zorba which was so much fun! We also had koufeta (sugared almonds) as one of our wedding favours for guests.
Top wedding hack? Facebook Marketplace is your best friend. Before buying anything check if there are any good options second hand, most things we got off Facebook Marketplace were
basically brand new (e.g. table decorations, seating chart, welcome sign etc).
Best advice for other couples planning a wedding? Be OK if things don’t go exactly as planned in the lead-up and on the day. Just remember everyone there loves you and is there to celebrate your love so that is all that really matters at the end of the day!
The Bride
Jacinta Wild, 26
Profession Registered nurse
Parents Andrew and Karen Wild
Bridesmaid Madeline Wild
Dress White April Bridal from Brides of Brisbane
Hair and make-up Meagan Ellise Styling
Flowers Blooms by Bridie
Engagement ring Stones Diamonds
The Groom
Harrison Kennedy, 26
Profession Software engineer
Parents Areti and Glen Kennedy
Groomsmen Casey Welch
Suit Montagio Suits
Entertainment Danny Dyson (booked through Paper Hearts)
Photographer and videographer Tawny Photography & Film
Celebrant Venita Manning
Caterer Ocean View Estates
Cake Nodo doughnuts mixed flavours, the bride’s favourite dessert.
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