By Danielle Davey
For the third consecutive year, All Smiles Sorrento Ocean Beach has claimed the title of Best Beach Venue in Greater Melbourne at the recent Wedding Industry Awards. Sharing in their success is the venue’s wedding coordinator Naomi Baxter, who was named as an individual finalist in her category.
While she prides herself on always thinking ahead, Naomi didn’t originally foresee a role in wedding planning, a career that has proved to be a natural fit. Her transition into the industry five years ago followed a background in surf retail management. Driven by her passion for beach culture, in 2015 she moved from Byron Bay to Sorrento to manage the Trigger Bros. store. It was her affinity for the coastal landscape that ultimately led to her current position at All Smiles’ beach wedding venue.
Naomi discovered her retail experience to be the perfect springboard for the career switch. Her ability to build relationships and remain calm under pressure were transferrable skills that gave her a distinct advantage in coordinating events.
Her enthusiasm for the venue as a superior wedding destination is genuine. “The location is breathtaking,” she said. “Perched above the ocean in Sorrento with uninterrupted coastal views, it’s one of the most naturally beautiful ceremony backdrops in Australia.”
Couples drawn to the idea of a beach wedding often imagine summer as the ideal time for their event, but Naomi says each season has its own appeal. “Summer is perfect for long evenings and vibrant celebrations, autumn brings beautiful golden tones and mild weather, winter creates a romantic and cosy atmosphere, while spring delivers fresh blooms and stunning coastal scenery. There really is no wrong time to get married by the sea.
“At All Smiles, couples can still enjoy the ocean vista while having the comfort and flexibility of indoor spaces if needed. One of my favourite features during winter weddings is our roaring fireplace, which creates a beautiful warm and inviting atmosphere for guests while adding to the romance of the occasion.”
While the venue sets the scene on the big day, Naomi sets the wheels in motion long before. Getting to know each couple, she helps arrange a celebration that feels authentically unique, whether it’s a black-tie beach ceremony, a colourful non-traditional celebration, or a classic coastal wedding. “My goal is to create a day that reflects the couple’s personalities, leaving them free to enjoy every moment.”
Invested in making every event a success, Naomi and the team at All Smiles – a family-run business – bring warmth to every occasion. Their obvious care has even earned them lasting friendships with past clients, some returning to celebrate further life milestones.
To learn more about this winning team, visit @naomi_baxter_events and @allsmilesamazingvenues on Instagram.
