Arna and Matt’s epic stadium wedding

With a capacity of over 20,000 Central Coast Stadium hosts a wide range of events including International Rugby Union, National Rugby League and National A-League Football matches; boxing, and motor cross. It even has a few open-air rock concerts under its festival belt.  

But why, you might wonder, am I talking about a sporting venue on my celebrant blog? Because this epic venue also played host to one of my all-time favourite weddings. Arna and Matt, the first couple to ever do so, tied the knot at Central Coast Stadium in October last year and I am still pinching myself that this wedding actually happened for real.

It was a dream come true to share their beautiful love story over the stadium PA, see their smiling faces on the scoreboard and get them hitched in the centre of the field. It truly was the grand final of all weddings!

I recently caught up with Arna and Matt to chat about everything from the lead up to the actual big day. Read on for a few hints and tips that might help make your own out-of-the-box venue dreams come true.  

Arna and Matt why did you choose Central Coast Stadium as your wedding venue?
“Matt was walking past the stadium one night and, as a Gosford local, thought it would be a great place for our wedding ceremony. We don't tend to do things like other couples, we're a bit abstract like that! So, not knowing how much it would cost etc., we decided to email the council and enquire if it would be possible to have our wedding there.”

What were the challenges and rewards that came with such an epic venue choice?
“The main challenges for us really centred around the amount of interstate travellers attending and getting them to the stadium on the day. The council and ground staff were so easy to deal with and extremely helpful throughout the whole process; so, with regards to the actual stadium, the only challenge we really had was the bad weather we had on the day. All our guests commented on our epic venue choice and we also found there was a lot of interest and excitement from people we didn't even know.”

What tips do you have for couples planning their wedding at a unique venue?
“Ask the question! If you have somewhere in mind for your ceremony or reception that is different and unique, don't be afraid to ask. If we had never approached the council, we would never have known that we could get married there.”

What was your favourite moment of your wedding?
“For me, the most special moment was walking out onto the field with my son giving me away…and seeing Matt at the end of the aisle. For Matt, the best thing was seeing everyone’s reaction and saying ‘I Do’ in the presence of all our loved ones.”

What was your favourite thing about having personalised vows?
“We loved writing our own vows, it really was so much fun. Our favourite part were all the little inside jokes that we both put in…without either of us knowing! It showed us how in tune we are with each other.

Do you have any bloopers you’d like to share from the day or the lead up?
“It rained and rained and rained when we got married! It was so dry leading up to the day, but the forecast didn’t look promising and luckily the ground staff had a contingency plan. Although the rain held off at the start, I was 40 minutes late and the second I started walking down the aisle it started pouring. They brought out a marquee and thankfully the bridal party didn't get wet! The guests did though.”

Where did you celebrate your reception?
“We had our reception at The Coast Bar and Restaurant. It’s located just across the road from the stadium with amazing water views.”

Is there anything else you would like to add?
“We would highly recommend anyone thinking of having their wedding at a venue that’s a bit different to take the plunge and put themselves out there. It was an amazing experience and we both feel so lucky to have been married at Central Coast Stadium. Also, our day could not have been so calm without you as the celebrant. The whole process from start to finish was amazing!”

If you’re currently planning your wedding, I’d love to help you create the perfect day! I’m all about bringing people together and sharing personal love stories in a genuine and fun way.

Get in touch and let’s have a chat!

Jo xx