After 21 years of wedded bliss John and Maree Kerr are keen to go back to the address where their married life began when the new Charcoal Tavern reopens in October.
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The ceremony in 1999 was a surprise for their 64 family and friends who had been invited to their son Lachlan's baptism at St Therese.
They thought they were coming to a celebratory lunch at the Charcoal Tavern and were not expecting to see the couple exchange vows on the front steps before moving inside for the wedding reception.
They had dined at the eatery many times and when the decision was made to get married choosing Charcoal Tavern as the venue was the obvious choice.
"The service was unbelievable. There was so much warmth. It was the premier restaurant in Wollongong," Mrs Kerr said.
"We didn't even consider anywhere else. The service was always unbelievable. I remember we always wanted to get the booth".
Mr Kerr said the Charcoal Tavern was the perfect wedding venue because it was so intimate.
"We always loved going there. It had class and style. They used to come and brush your table down at the end of each course. I remember the singing chef and the silver service," he said.
That was the place where so many memories were created for us. 21 years ago it was on the hill looking out over the city."
Mrs Kerr said their friends still talk to them about that perfect day.
"It was such a good day which is why we want to relive the memories at the new Charcoal Tavern for our 21st wedding anniversary. The original restaurants holds such a special place in our hearts."
Mr Kerr said if the same atmosphere can be recreated on ground level of the new Signature building the new Charcoal Tavern will be another winning eatery.
One his favourite memories of the original restaurant was the Rose Lady always coming around with roses which added to the romantic atmosphere.
"She was lovely," he said.
Among Mrs Kerr's memories was a Bushtucker Plate that was ahead of its time.
"And their chateaubriand was always a favourite," she said.
"There was a real innocence about dining at the Charcoal Tavern".
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Greg Ellis
Almost four decades in electronic, print and digital media. A writer, presenter, emcee, photographer and videographer with degrees in business management, marketing and human resources and tertiary qualifications in photography.
Almost four decades in electronic, print and digital media. A writer, presenter, emcee, photographer and videographer with degrees in business management, marketing and human resources and tertiary qualifications in photography.
