A magical lakeside wedding in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland
“If your heart is telling you to — do it!” is the advice from newlyweds Raquel and Anthony, who celebrated their love story at Secrets on the Lake, a romantic hideaway tucked away in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. While the Queensland-based couple didn’t need a long-haul flight to reach their chosen destination, the waterfront venue certainly carried that holiday wedding feel. “All our friends and family were in awe of how beautiful the whole location was,” says Raquel. “You really felt like you were in Bali or Thailand.”
With its sweeping Lake Baroon views and unique treehouse accommodation, ‘Secrets’ had made a memorable first impression on the couple too. They were charmed by the setting, but also loved the ease of having everything in one place for their 72 cherished guests. “It had everything we wanted, from treehouse cabin accommodation to the ceremony and reception and all our photo spots,” says Raquel. “And I love the detail of animal woodcarvings throughout the property.”
The couple worked with onsite wedding planner Megan to fine-tune their timeline and navigate those little logistical challenges (the seating chart!) while creating a cohesive aesthetic with accent colours and florals. On the day, everything came together for the sweetest lakeside ‘I do’ and a stunning photocall around the property’s Lake House with local photographer Mallory Sparkles. All eyes were on the happy couple and the bride’s gorgeous Grace Loves Lace gown, with the shimmering lake vistas creating a mood of pure enchantment.
Festivities then moved effortlessly to Dining on the Deck restaurant, where the steak and potato röstis received a special mention among the delicious food and wine offerings, and the evening’s speeches were a hilarious highlight. Most precious memories for the pair? “Reading our vows to each other and practising our dance on the deck before the reception,” says Raquel, adding: “The whole day felt magical.”
Now Mr & Mrs, Anthony and Raquel are extending their just-married high into the new year, planning a dream honeymoon to Japan in January.
Dream Team
Guests: 72 // Ceremony & reception venue: Secrets on the Lake // Photography: Mallory Sparkles // Bridal gown: Grace Loves Lace // Makeup: The Face Cartel // Hair: Evalyn Parsons // Florals: Western Avenue Floral Design
