HEAVEN ON EARTH
Growing up as part of the same church, Amanda Buckley and Josh Skerman have known each other for quite a while.
They ended up in the same group of friends as they grew older and, as Amanda put it, things went from there.
Not too long after they started dating and knew each other a bit better, Josh knew it was love and decided to propose.
“Josh took me out to his family farm one afternoon. We sat outside with beers and chips and he popped the question as we watched the sun set over the sorghum,” remembered Amanda.
Together for two-and-a-half years, the pair tied the knot at the Dalby Presbyterian Church in April this year, taking their vows from scripture.
“He’s the most amazing man. I’ve always known him to be the most caring and selfless person, who’ll go out of his way for me and anyone close to him.
“We’ve never had a serious argument, because he always wants what’s best for the both of us. He’s certainly one mighty fine husband,” said Amanda, when asked to describe Josh.
After the ceremony, the newlyweds and their guests moved over to the family farm for the reception.
Choosing a rustic chic look, the couple utilised the raw beauty of the farm’s shed and decorated it with a mass of fairy lights, DIY gum-leaf chandeliers, and timber, hessian and lace centrepiece decorations.
Family is important to Josh and Amanda, so they wanted his niece and nephews in the wedding party.
“The youngest wasn’t even walking yet, so he rolled down the aisle on his toy digger. He did it perfectly and calmed a lot of nerves,” said Josh.
Amanda said the wedding day was perfect.
“All we wanted was a stress-free day, so people could have fun and enjoy each other’s company — and that’s exactly what we got. We never wanted it to end,” she said.
The couple said words cannot describe how blessed they felt to have their family and friends be a part of their beginning as husband and wife.
“It was such a spectacular day and it was made even more special, seeing our love for each other supported by all those close to us,” said Josh.
Feeling it is an exciting part of getting married, Amanda took Josh’s last name.
“I’m recognised as Josh’s wife, which is something to be proud of,” she said.
The Skermans believe staying calm is the best advice they can give others.
“Planning a wedding can become so stressful but, at the end of the day, you will be married to your best friend and that’s the only reason you’re doing it all for. Everything else is a bonus and any problems during the day make for a great story afterwards,” said Amanda.
Straight after the wedding, they honeymooned in the Maldives for 10 days and now have big plans for the future.