If you know the Gold Coast, you know Rick Shores. Perched above the break at Burleigh Heads with uninterrupted ocean views and a reputation as one of the most celebrated hatted restaurants on the coast, it is the kind of venue that stops people in their tracks. For Jess and Mitch, it was the perfect backdrop for a day that was effortlessly elegant, deeply personal and completely unforgettable.
There was something so special about seeing their names sit beneath the Rick Shores sign – Mitch and Jess, right alongside one of the Gold Coast’s most iconic venues. Like a collaboration. Like they owned the place. In every way that mattered on that day, they did.
The Ceremony
The outdoor courtyard was transformed into one of the most beautiful ceremony spaces. A crisp white carpet runner stretched the full length of the aisle, flanked by sleek black iron chairs and framed by scalloped white umbrellas with their signature black trim. At the altar, lush floral plinths rose either side of the couple – an organic mix of white blooms, soft greenery and dried grasses – with the rolling waves of Burleigh Beach crashing behind them and the Gold Coast skyline shimmering in the distance.
Guests were welcomed by a beautifully styled black sign reading “it was always you” nestled amongst florals. It set the tone for everything that followed.
Jess arrived in a stunning off-shoulder fitted gown with exquisite lace and embroidered detail and the most beautiful long train. Mitch waited for her in a cream jacket and black pants – a perfectly coastal, perfectly them combination. Their little boy stood proudly beside them as ring bearer, and with the ocean as their witness, they said their vows in one of the most breathtaking settings imaginable.
The Flip
The moment the ceremony concluded, our team moved fast. Furniture trucks were on standby and within the cocktail hour window we completely flipped the outdoor space for drinks while guests soaked in the last of the afternoon sun with the ocean at their feet. Custom plants were used to create a lush privacy wall and the scalloped umbrellas came into their own as guests gathered beneath them, champagne in hand, with the Gold Coast sunset beginning to paint the sky.
The Interior
For dinner, guests moved inside where we had given the space a fresh and beautiful new life. Working with the existing bones of the restaurant, we layered in crisp table linens, soft florals, flickering candles en masse and our signature wavy-trimmed table lamps in gold – transforming the familiar into something that felt entirely new. A stunning crystal champagne tower sat framed by the ocean window, catching the last of the golden light as guests found their seats.
The Details
The stationery throughout was completely custom and beautifully cohesive – and the floral name cards were one of our favourite touches, so delicate and perfectly considered. Custom personalised gin bottles, a beautiful cards and well wishes station and Mr & Mrs Swepson tambourines at every seat – the kind of detail that gets guests talking and sets the tone for a big night on the dance floor.
The Evening
As the sun dipped below the horizon and the Gold Coast skyline lit up against a sky of deep coral and gold, the room shifted into something truly special. Candlelight, laughter, dancing – and those views. Always those views.
Jess and Mitch, it was the most beautiful day and we adored every single moment of bringing it to life for you.
“We honestly couldn’t have asked for a better experience with The Events Lounge. From our very first conversation, Rach went above and beyond to make the entire process feel effortless. She was always just a phone call away, full of support, advice, and incredible vendor recommendations that made all the difference. On the day itself, she was an absolute dream – so calm, organised, and in complete control. Every element from the stunning décor to the flawless coordination was executed perfectly, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the joy of the moment and not have to worry about a single thing. Rach’s attention to detail, professionalism, and genuine care truly made our wedding everything we hoped it would be and more. We’re so grateful to have had her by our side – she is a complete GEM!”– Jess & Mitch x
- Wedding Planner & Stylist: The Events Lounge
- Venue: Rick Shores
- Photographer: Figure Pictures
- Celebrant: Create with Shelby
- Content Creator: Socially Wed
- Florist: Stem Designs
- Entertainment: Jack Sweeney Music, Jeff Reid
- Decor Hire: Social Event Hire, Table Art, Candles by Jessica, Staging Creations, Table for Louis, Bubble Over Champagne Towers, Tropical Plant Hire
- Cake: Amy Loves Cake
