Courtney Murray & David Duketis
Musical theatre performers Courtney and David met when they were both in the musical Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat in Melbourne and Sydney.
The couple tied the knot at St Paul’s Lutheran Church in Hahndorf after David popped the question on a secluded beach in Nice, France, at sunset. Courtney says her favourite part of the day was never leaving David’s side, and celebrating with their guests, who rallied from across the globe. “That is what it is about, celebrating love,” Courtney says. “Not just ours, but everyone’s love towards us and each other.”
Ceremony St Paul’s Lutheran Church
Reception The Manor Basket Range
Bridal gown Calèche Bridal & Couture
Celebrant John Sharpe
Flowers Danielle Pereira
Cake June Millan
Photographer Kyle Head Photography
Tell us about the engagement.
David took me to Nice, France and we were exploring the south of France and swimming in the ocean. We then went exploring around the walk along the ocean side at sunset and David found the most secluded spot on the ocean – both in bathers and me with no makeup, he sets up his own camera and drops to one knee.
What were some personal elements that were important for you to have at your wedding?
We wanted colour! Not just the neutral colours but so much colour! We also LOVE music, so Tania at Choonz and Moovz was the best choice we could have made.
What did you love about your dress?
Caléche was the best dress shop for me. It was slick, simple and stunning! I felt so comfortable and the two fabrics at the back of my dress, as well as the train, folded up for photos so they weren’t dragging.
What was your inspiration behind the styling?
Slick! Colourful! Messy (in a good way). Somehow I think I was going for Meredith Blake from The Parent Trap.
What was one of your favourite parts of the day?
Never leaving David’s side. It is such a stressful day so, to be honest, I was just glad I didn’t need to organise anything else again haha!
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Looking back on your day, what would you recommend for anyone else planning their big day?
It isn’t about how the flowers look, how your makeup stays on, how your hair is, etc. It is about the energy and love in the air. As long as the couple remember it is about them coming together as one and taking the next massive step in their relationship. I had planned so much to the every five minutes and on the day we didn’t want to leave for sunset pictures because we wanted to be with the people that flew (all the way from Vienna, USA, Netherlands etc) to see us. It also allowed people to surprise us with cultural Polynesian dances and surprise performances. That is what it is about! Celebrating LOVE! Not just ours but everyone’s love towards us and each other. Best day of our lives.
This article first appeared in the March 2026 issue of SALIFE magazine.
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