In late March when NSW was going into COVID-19 lockdown James Dwarte and Sharnae Kennedy fast-tracked their wedding plans by three months and organised a small service for 25 people in less than 24 hours.
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They had hoped to have up to 250 people present in mid June but were forced to tell invited guests that was no longer possible.
But Mr Dwarte still wanted Ms Kennedy to have the wedding of her dreams. And they told everyone a full celebration would take place when social distancing restrictions allowed.
A new date was set in 2021 before the recent outbreak of new coronavirus cases in Victoria made them nervous about whether that was still going to be possible.
But there was good news on Monday when the NSW Government announced weddings would be allowed to have up to 300 people from December 1. Now they are more confident that the day and celebration they had originally hoped for will finally be able to proceed.
"It is definitely heading in the right direction but there will still be a 4sqm rule. So the number of people you can have depends on the size of the venue," Mr Dwarte said.
"We still want to get everyone together like we originally planned."
Mr Dwarte said the date for the reception at Panorama House was already locked in so they are not worried about missing out in any rush of new bookings. He said the venue was fantastic in being willing to postpone in March. Now everyone is hoping restrictions ease further so they can dance.
"At present it is still 20 people from the bridal party who are allowed to dance".
The couple will use the same wedding businesses who were also understanding in March. As was All Saints Catholic Church in Shellharbour which allowed a small ceremony to proceed before being advised no more weddings would be conducted. A full reenactment is being planned for all guests, including a renewal of their vows.
Following the service and reception the newlyweds are hoping they can finally embark on their dream honeymoon.
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