Beautiful Private Property Wedding with Tuscan Vibes In The Adelaide Hills - Eloisa + Jacob

Eloisa + Jacob

Private Property, Mount Osmond SA

This wedding day was full of smiles, laughs and a heckin’ good time! Held on an insanely ridiculous family property which came complete with architecturally designed house, Tuscan vibes and a view to freaking die for. You would absolutely be forgiven for thinking this was the Italian countryside.

Eloisa and Jake are a perfectly suited pair, completely obsessed with one another this loved up duo did not shy away from affection. They’d tell you they had no idea what they were doing when faced with the camera but I tell you their amazing attitude and openness to have fun, plus their love for each other made photographing them just so easy. 

The fashion was totally on point. Eloisa was decked out in a freaking incredible dress designed by the very amazing, Couture Love Madness. Then there was those Zimmerman bridesmaids dresses, absolute goals! and Jacob’s cream dinner jacket was a dapper point of difference.

A little poolside & view-side ceremony conducted by a good friend was a tear filled journey. Cocktails flowed for a bit of mingling and I whisked the wedding party off for a little hill side photoshoot. Later on we hit Mount Osmond, arguably one of the most picturesque little hills in Adelaide and the blue hour light was EVERYTHING. A little unexpected treat was the wedding cranking along below in full view from the summit. It was pretty special to have that kind of vantage point of your whole wedding scene and watching it all take place from a distance. 

Hilarious speeches, more tears and epic dancing ensued and that’s this day in a nutshell. Please scroll on for epic loved up beautifulness.

Videography - Wight Wedding Videos | Planner & On The Day Co-ordination - Your Event Plannery | Venue - Private Family Property | Florist - Ponder Posy | Celebrant - Friend & With Love Amy | Marquee - Aussie Party Hire | Hair - Small Girl Big Blog | Band - The Good Old Fashioned Way | Dress - Couture Love Madness | Groom’s Suit - Burlington’s Menswear | Bridesmaid’s Dresses - Zimmerman | Signage & Stationary - Ohkdarling | Catering - Kitchen & Catering By Sam

Stunning Woodburn Homestead Wedding - Olivia + Andy

Olivia + Andy

Woodburn Homestead, Langhorne Creek

You know it’s going to be a good day when you roll in at 10am and you’re already being force fed mimosas, and that’s probably a little preview of what we were in for, one hectic celebration and party. Olivia and Andy did not disappoint in any department. 

We arrived at Woodburn Homestead, one of Adelaide’s premiere wedding venue’s and for good reason; everything you need on site, no more than a hundred meters or so from any of the action. This place seriously has it all! A beautiful homestead, separate additional accomodation, a beautiful rustic style ruin, an adjacent lawn for the perfect cocktail hour, and fields for days. Oh yeah, not to mention the gum lined driveway, cactus lined access road… I could go on but the place is freaking divine is what I’m getting at. Oh yeah, and there was a field dedicated to a small village worth of bell tents ready for a few extra, stayer-oners (if that’s a word). As a photographer, this day had everything you could wish for, perfect venue, radiant couple and a heckin’ good time (Oh yeah, and doggos!). 

Both Andy and Olivia were smiling from ear to ear all day, so ecstatic to be marrying each other and did they have a party in store. Olivia rolled in a spectacularly detailed Caleche gown complete with sleeves, it was total goals. This Shania Twain loving rock star hit that dance floor and I’m not sure she stopped until it was time to turn in. 

Their doggo’s Chip and Bailey joined them earlier for the ceremony as official ring bearers, always a hit! They also made a slight re-appearance to join the duo at their first dance, an even bigger hit!!

An incredible group of people enjoyed a delightful dinner under chandeliers, an epic reception entrance and a stunning sunset. Articulate and heartfelt speeches ensued, and then the dance floor opened. Tequila shots and a killer dance floor lit up the night, completely full of sweet love and utter chaos. 

Videography - The Film Room | Venue - Woodburn Homestead | Celebrant - Andrew Baldino Celebrant | Marquee - Olympic Party Hire | Hair & Makeup - Samantha Ruby Artistry | DJ - Entertainment Adelaide | Dress - Caleche | Lighting - Venue Productions | Catering - Cindy’s Classic Gourmet

Lloyd Brothers Wedding in McLaren Vale - Olivia + John

Olivia + John

Lloyd Brothers, McLaren Vale

Olivia and John’s day was nothing short of a spectacular explosion of colour and love. Right from the start of the day we knew we were in for something special, there two and their entire families welcomed us into the fold and took us along for the ride. Check out John’s parents lounge room, his double breasted beige suit was absolutely something else, adorned with pops of blue and pink florals it fit the bright yellow classic furniture perfectly. The colour scheme only progressed when we spotted Olivias insane bouquet featuring yellows pinks and blues and then a pair of shiny emerald green shoes. The genuses at Studio Botanic had plenty in store for us yet, and we certainly weren’t finished. Olivia also had her dress designed by one of my all time favourite designers from right here in Adelaide, the very amazing Greta Kate who produced an incredible gown, she seriously never misses.

Off we went for a couple of ceremonies, haha yes as in ‘more than one’, Catholic then Greek Orthodox proceedings covered all the religious backgrounds from this coming together of two families.

Then we hit one of Adelaide’s crown jewels in the restaurant scene, Africola. This place is one heck of a feast for the senses in both the visual and culinary department. This little eclectic locale was the perfect stop off for some casual hangs, cocktails and don’t even get me started on that chicken sandwich… I think I had three! If you live in Adelaide and you haven’t been yet then I highly recommend you re-examine your life choices haha, but seriously you should go ASAP.

Once we’d finished with one freaking spectacular photoshoot in the city’s east end we headed off for the reception, and let me tell you, I’m not sure we were fully prepared for what we were about to experience. Lloyd Brothers Wines is a beautiful spot in McLaren Vale, an absolutely perfect place to host a wedding. The classic cellar door looks over expansive lawns, a lake, and an olive grove. Just off to the side the Barrel Hall awaits. It’s white interior, huge wooden barn door and elevated ceilings make it one of Adelaides best blank space venues that is always ready for someone to bring some inspiration and vision to life.

HAVE YOU EVER SEEN A FREAKING FLOWER CLOUD? I have now… I was absolutely not expecting such scale and epic-ness, like I said, freaking flower clouds apparently floating above three giant long tables that spanned the entire interior of the space leading the eye to an enormous arched hanging install of explosive colour, my simple words will not do it justice, scroll down and see for yourself, the space was incredible, an almost immersive experience. The tables adorned with candlelight and pops of coloured flowers and vases, this was easily one of the most creative and colourful affairs I’d ever been part of.

The dancing continued well into the night, Baker Boys band brought the Jazz tunes earlier for that classic dinner party feel and then the shots flowed freely… you know keeping with the greek traditions and all, it’s only polite ;)

This is absolutely one day that will not be forgotten in a hurry. Enjoy.

Videography - The Film Room | Venue - Lloyd Brothers | Florals, Candles and Vases - Studio Botanic | Concept, Styling & Coordination - Found Collective | Hair - Hide and Seek Salon | Makeup - Nour Harb & Glam Bar | Band & DJ - Baker Boys Band | Dress - Greta Kate | Groom Suit - Instichu | Furniture & Dancefloor - Olympic Party Hire Cocktail Furniture - Sash Events | Cake - Little Lils Cakery | Lighting - Venue Productions | Stationary & Signage - Class Ink Designs | Catering - Kitchen and Catering By Sam

Mandalay House and Garden Wedding in the Adelaide Hills - Alana + Nathan

Alana + Nathan

Mandalay House And Garden

Wow what a day. We knew leading up to this wedding that it was going to be something special and a little bit ‘next level’ in the styling department. On meeting Nathan and Alana these guys immediately came across as fun loving and a little bit sassy, we were always in for a good time. The theme was “Classy but a little bit cheeky… candles, balloon garlands and disco balls”. They’d employed the very incredible talent from Hygge Studio and boy did they deliver.

Now, I’m going to try and hit as much of the highlights and finer details as possible without turning this blog into a novel, you’ll have to just go see the photographs to get the full experience.

On arrival in the morning we hit up Mandalay House and Garden in the Adelaide Hills. We’re talking an expansive, manicured private property complete with two tennis courts, endless garden paths and pine tree avenues complete with draped festoons. We were immediately greeted by Alana, decked out in a gold sequin robe and white heart shaped sunglasses… style. on. point.

Fast forward to the ceremony and we are talking a crazy amazing garden setting, custom built stage, black modern ottomans and a black, white and green floral theme. The one and only Laura Brook Celebrant delivered one heck of a ceremony, even including an unexpected Eminem lyric sneakily woven into their beautiful personalised back story, much to the delight of both Nathan, Alana and the captive audience. The Eminem theme would also feature heavily during the day, so stay tuned…. A tiny error in the printed vows saw Nathan in stitches when he took Alana to be his ‘lawfully wedded…erm husband’ and Rock Paper Scissors was the deciding factor on who was to deliver theirs first (always a fun addition to any ceremony).

Ok moving on. These guys wed and it was all cheers and happiness. The guests were treated to a beautifully custom designed gold mirrored modern bar set up on tennis court 1 and cocktails and bevvies flowed. It was quite the soiree.

Meanwhile, the main event was being masterfully created over on Tennis Court 2 in the marquee. Leaving the cocktail hour, through the giant hedge, you’re lead to a gravel path, draped with fairy lights and a wooden arbour that goes on for what seems to be forever. A giant Marquee awaits you. On entry the styling is almost overwhelming in its scale and nuanced details progressively become apparent. Just like watching a movie over and over again, new details emerge as the night went on. Entering via the dance floor which is backed by a custom silver foiled wall with featured neon angel wings. Move your gaze down a little to the black dance-floor and you’ll find a giant custom yellow decal splotch with Eminem lyrics to “Lose Yourself”. Definitely a first for me. A 7 foot arched, up lit seating chart guides each guest to their place via a giant silver arched balloon garland joining the bar and long tables.

A hanging floral installation of blue and white orchids leads into a clear ceiling laden with what seems like dozens of mirror balls and giant clear bulbs. Purple and yellow florals adorn three epically long tables. Clear seats add to the modern disco feel as the tables extend the rest of the way along the black draped walls. Bright yellow menus and place cards with bold black text await each guest. The room is complete with yet another neon; “Til Death” wrapped in a heart, throwing its moody crimson light across the room as the sun went down.

After a handful of kick-ass speeches, the cohort hit the dance floor piloted by 5 piece band “The Escapades” and tore it up to some sweet tunes! A ‘Lose Yourself’ rap battle broke out and Alana nailed every word. Whisky sours topped off the late night cocktail service and fuelled the dancing well into the night. 

I really should take some time to mention that these two were, for realises, two of the most chilled, legends. They joked, laughed, and soaked up every minute of their loved one’s company. It’s so awesome when two people are just there to be completely obsessed with each other and to genuinely enjoy the day. It really was a party and a marriage worth remembering! 

Videography - The Film Room | Venue - Mandalay House and Garden | Celebrant - Love From Laura (Laura Brook) Stylist/Florals - Hygge Studio | Hair & Makeup - Make up By Lili K & Hair by Cat | Band & DJ - The Escapades | Dress - Toni Maticevski | Hire Items - Festival Hire, Found Collective

Waverley Estate Wedding - Alice + Sam

Alice + Sam

Waverley Estate | Port Elliot, South Australia

When I try to describe the vibe of Alice and Sam I settled on this; two absolutely super stylish, eclectic, alternative rockstars.

Where do you even start to describe such an epic affair. Every detail has a story, a meaning, a purpose. It’s also a little intimidating to describe when the groom is basically a poet who’s speech was so articulately formulated. Following that little number there was not a dry eye in the house. The most heartfelt of deliveries that any bride would swoon for.

The perfect locale hosted this very special occasion. Waverley estate with its surrounding gardens and historic stone buildings suited to a tee, the classic, eclectic, vintage fashion vibe. A clear marquee featuring hanging linen festoons and lounges. A bright pink bar stocked with giant glass tank’s filled with Sam’s very own brand of wine. The event brilliantly catered by the very excellent ‘Kitchen and Catering by Sam’ (not that Sam, another Sam). And bourbon sours that began flowing, and flowing….and…well...flowing.

I always try to have a good time with the bridal party and get people comfy and into that photo session groove, but these guys took things to a whole other level. They took the session and ran with it, in all kinds of good, fun and weird directions, at the culmination of which, a photo with their photographer was demanded and could not be refused! One of my fav photographs. These guys took me in and raised me as one of their own… for a night LOL.

After a final last light session in the back field and a little romance, the night kicked off and the dance floor was, as they say at the time of writing…’lit’.

Very special thanks to some crazy awesome vendors:

Venue - Waverley Estate | Celebrant - Natalie Peachey Celebrant | Catering / Bar Service - Kitchen and Catering by Sam | Florist - Melanie Fulton

Luke John Photography | Adelaide Wedding Photographer

Elise + Paul | Elopement | Adelaide Wedding Photographer

So I’m not really much of a writer, I have too much of a science and office/corporate background to swell emotion within you when I type the written word. This story is something so special though, and really must be told. The images below are the real story tellers of the raw emotion, joyfulness and intimacy of one pretty small but at the same time, epic elopement.

March 2018, Adelaide South Australia.

Elise and Paul flew in from their home of South Africa to be married in the presence of Elise’s family; sister Ange, husband Con and three beautiful children whom they hadn’t seen in six years. Elise’s mother also came from her home in Malaysia, and Paul’s dad from South Africa also.

Shooting this wedding along side my wife, Jessie, who was there to film the day was also super special.

In the morning we set out to Paul’s Airbnb. Just him and his dad getting all suited up and telling stories of Paul’s upbringing were hilarious. The closeness of this father and son duo was more of a tale of adventurous and mischievous best friends.

Ange’s shabby chic, French provincial styled, fairy-tale castle (for lack of a better word) was the setting for the girl’s preps.  

Elise’s dress sourced from a vintage shop in Amsterdam was also something pretty special. Her ensemble also included a metallic flower bouquet, something very cool I had not seen before.

Off to the ceremony held at totally underrated Belair National Park. Ominous and ancient trees of a species with which I am not acquainted, offered the perfect natural archway and a vintage woven rug marked the spot. It was a beautiful, intimate ceremony and when a surprise bagpiper lead the bride down the aisle in honour of Paul’s Scottish heritage, an unforgettably emotional time, seeing Paul’s jaw literally drop.  

After the ceremony and a little home-made picnic spread I took Elise and Paul in their fancy clothes and we explored a nearby bush track for some very special couple shots. A few pauses due to some wildlife taking Elise and Paul’s eye was also really special, Koala’s snacking and sleeping in the trees, kangaroos hopping through fields, it was pretty cool.

When we moved on to the reception, this is where things got super special. Back to Ange’s surreal backyard and enter the rustic corrugated iron and timber shed, styled perfectly by sister Ange (of Vintage Prins). One single table, white table cloth adorned with locally picked greenery, simple lit candles and handmade metal name places. We were given a place at the table and wine and tall tales flowed as the sun set.

Wow, wow, wow, at the energy and connection between these two during their very intimate first dance, a simple sway with a few spins (my favourite). To end the night we headed out onto Ange’s dirt driveway in the pitch black, lit a few sparklers and stood in the glow of car headlights to snap a few final shots.

Oh P.S - I put the film at the bottom.

Venue: Belair National Park Caravan Park | Reception: at family home Styling: Vintage Prins (Angela, her sister) |
Hair and Make-up: Carly Dabinet - Makeup, Styling & Beauty | Celebrant: Alister Mitchell- http://marry.com.au | Catering: Mash Food http://mashfood.com.au | Bagpipes: Darren Ferguson - fergie_5@aapt.net.au | Dress: 1950s Vintage found in Laura Dols thrift store in Amsterdam | Flower girl dresses: spree.co.za in Cape Town

I know I promised you a film - created by my beautifully talented wife, Jessie - The Film Room