Ben 'BJ' Keebaugh, the heir to a Melbourne hospitality dynasty, has celebrated his marriage to partner Abbie Greene in an opulent wedding ceremony held at his parents' sprawling country estate on Victoria's Mornington Peninsula. The son of Bruce and Chyka Keebaugh, founders of the global events company The Big Group, exchanged vows in a star-studded event last weekend, marking a significant moment for the high-profile family.
A Green-Themed Extravaganza
The proud parents, well-known fixtures on the Melbourne social scene, transformed their Barragunda estate into a magical, green-themed setting for 180 guests. Industry experts estimate that the weekend-long celebration would have cost approximately $500,000, though it is believed many complementary deals were arranged due to the family's extensive connections in the events industry.
Bridal Arrivals and Attire
The bride, Abbie Greene, stunned attendees in a strapless floral-print gown paired with a matching veil, while the groom, BJ Keebaugh, looked timeless in a crisp white dinner jacket and black bow tie. The bridal party made a dramatic entrance, arriving in forest-green Range Rovers adorned with custom 'Mr & Mrs K' number plates, adding a personalised touch to the proceedings.
Abbie was accompanied by five bridesmaids and one bridesman, while BJ stood alongside seven groomsmen, reflecting the couple's close-knit social circle. The attention to detail was meticulous, with bespoke 'B and A' monogramming featured throughout the wedding decor.
Luxury Details and Celebrations
Floral arrangements were crafted by renowned designer Joost Bakker, complementing a seven-tier wedding cake and a spectacular fireworks display that lit up the evening sky. The event gurus also hosted a recovery party at the 'Keebaugh ranch,' which doubled as a celebration of BJ's 30th birthday. Guests, including influencer Lila Holbrook, Carman's muesli tycoon Carolyn Cresswell, restaurant royalty Holly Lucas, and Decjuba founder Tania Austin, were asked to dress in white western outfits for an American-style barbecue.
Family and Business Background
Bruce Keebaugh took to social media after the wedding to welcome his new daughter-in-law to the family, humorously noting the post-wedding recovery period. He expressed gratitude for the village of support that made the event possible, highlighting the emotional significance of creating such moments for their own family after years of doing so for others.
BJ Keebaugh works as Chief of Staff at United Business Development Services, while his wife, Abbie, leads marketing at PWC. The couple has been based in London since 2023, adding an international dimension to their celebration.
The Big Group's Legacy
In their 25 years in business, The Big Group has evolved into a one-stop shop for luxury events, overseeing everything from catering and styling to florals, venue sourcing, and staffing. The company is understood to be worth upwards of $40 million, with a prestigious client list that includes the Melbourne Spring Racing Carnival, the Australian Open, and events for global brands like Louis Vuitton, Lexus, Emirates, and Dior across multiple continents.
This wedding not only celebrated the union of BJ and Abbie but also showcased the Keebaugh family's expertise in creating unforgettable experiences, blending personal joy with professional flair in a truly extravagant affair.
