A Relaxed and Colourful Farm Wedding at Rocklea Farm – Cherie & Sam’s Special Day in Geelong

There’s something truly special about a wedding that mirrors a couple’s personality so effortlessly and both Cherie and Sam’s big day at Rocklea Farm was exactly that. A celebration full of colour, sentiment, and down-to-earth charm, their wedding felt warm, intentional, and completely true to them.

Cherie and Sam met in 2018 while working together, where casual tea room lunches turned into late-night walks to the car. A quiet connection grew from shared time and small, thoughtful gestures. Both say they knew they’d found “the one” in the same way – watching each other with Cherie’s nieces and nephews. Something about seeing Sam read stories or let the girls braid his hair just made it clear. That was it.

The proposal was simple and beautiful. During a trip to New Zealand for a friend’s wedding, the two extended their stay to travel. One morning, on the balcony of their hotel overlooking the water in Tauranga, Sam proposed. No grand production, just the two of them in a stunning moment – exactly how they like things.

When it came to planning, Cherie and Sam focused on what truly mattered to them. They chose a few key elements that were non-negotiables – Rocklea Farm, their photographer Jake Hogan, and Timboon Ice Cream and built the rest around them. It made the process clear and surprisingly easy. With a shared love of colour and Australian natives, they let florals lead the style, brought to life by the wonderful Whimsical Wildflowers. To balance out the playful blooms, everything else stayed simple, so the overall look was joyful, elegant and honest.

Cherie’s dress journey wasn’t quite as straightforward. After trying on over 70 gowns without finding ‘the one’, she met with Soho Bridal and together they created a custom piece. The final result was magic. With a square neckline, extra-long sleeves, and an open back, all layered in soft, pleated tulle and tiny buttons, it was timeless and completely hers. She later changed into a second look for dancing – relaxed, fun, and perfect for the party to follow.

The day itself was filled with beautiful, understated moments. Cherie recalls her nieces and nephews watching the ceremony from up in a tree – completely entranced. Sam’s grandparents were chosen as their official witnesses, a couple married for over 65 years, and having their blessing added a layer of meaning that words can’t quite capture. Their first dance to “Annie’s Song” by John Denver was the perfect wrap on a ceremony full of heart, set to a soundtrack of Fleetwood Mac, Simon & Garfunkel, and Al Green.

Their wedding day was a perfect example of what’s possible when you focus on what really matters. Rocklea Farm gave them the space and flexibility to do things their way – with rustic charm, good people, and room for all the meaningful details. The kind of venue that lets love take the lead.

Their advice to others planning a wedding? Keep it in perspective.

“Having the ‘perfect’ wedding is impossible. The goal is to be together and get married – everything else is a bonus. Be kind and patient with yourself and each other.”

Cherie and Sam’s day was joyful, thoughtful, and completely their own and we’re so grateful to have been a part of it.