Olympian Peter Bol and Mahtut Yaynu's Intimate Garden Wedding in Perth Hills
An intimate glimpse into the garden wedding of Olympian Peter Bol and Mahtut Yaynu reveals a heartfelt celebration of love, family, and cultural heritage. The couple, who share a 16-month-old daughter named Reyna, held their ceremony at Masonmill in the Perth Hills, creating a serene and personal atmosphere for their 100 guests.
A Dream Realised Through Friendship and Family
Growing up, Peter Bol often discussed his aspirations for a loving family life with his neighbour Michael Maguang, who later became his best man. Both moved to Australia from Egypt just a week apart, dreaming of a future far removed from Bol's war-torn childhood in Sudan. Reflecting on their past conversations, Bol recalls desiring "a really caring, supportive partner to share life with and a beautiful kid," which he found in Yaynu. Now, with Reyna, education and a stable home are paramount, especially as a professional athlete constantly traveling for competitions.
Celebrating Heritage Across Multiple Days
The wedding was part of a multi-day journey honoring their backgrounds, including a Henna night reflecting Sudanese traditions and a Habesha wedding celebrating Ethiopian culture. Yaynu explains, "Each event had its own meaning, clothing, music, and atmosphere. Instead of blending everything into one, we let each tradition stand on its own, making it feel like a journey celebrating heritage, identity, and family." This approach added depth and personal significance to their celebrations.
Venue and Styling: Elegance in Nature
Choosing Masonmill for its English countryside manor vibe, the couple appreciated the greenery, open air, and quiet surroundings that fostered a sense of stillness. Yaynu aimed for a soft, calm aesthetic, stating, "Instead of heavy styling, we kept things minimal and elegant—letting the greenery, light, and atmosphere carry the look." Her custom gown from The Bridal Curator featured a dropped-waist bodice and a dramatic, voluminous skirt, while Bol wore a Hugo Boss tuxedo, comfortable despite the 34-degree November heat.
Music and Moments of Connection
Music played a central role, with songs selected to reflect shared memories and cultural experiences. For their first dance, the couple chose Why I Love You by Major, with Yaynu noting, "It wasn't just romantic; it felt reassuring and grounding, which reflects who we are as a couple." The moment was described as surprisingly calm, as if the entire day paused for just them.
Building a Home Together
Now based in Melbourne, Bol and Yaynu emphasize the importance of home and family. Bol shares, "I used to just get up and leave for competitions in Europe, but now with a wife, it's actually home, and you can call it home." Their wedding, surrounded by family in Perth, symbolized the stable, loving life they've built together, blending their past dreams with present joy.
