There’s nothing quite like the busyness that is family life with young kids which is why taking a moment to stop and document your family’s journey is so important. I recently caught up with past clients John and Jasmine to update their family photos. The kids have grown so much since their last session and it was so nice to hear how they are settling in to Sussex Inlet. Like most of my sessions, we met at the beach so the kids could explore which meant lots of natural happy photos. I think the sea change suits them perfectly!
Robert and Amelia's Cronulla Wedding
When planning your special day, there are two things you have to do: have a clear vision and stick to what you and your partner love. This is exactly what Robert and Amelia did with their bright and colourful Cronulla wedding. The pair had so many beautiful details throughout the day - from the fun colour palette and bold florals to the bright stationery and confetti.
The Wanda Surf Club was the perfect location for their modern celebration with it’s incredible views over Cronulla Beach. Prior to the ceremony, the couple met for a romantic first look outside the Pavilion. This helped them both calm the nerves and built more excitement for the wedding. At the ceremony they exchanged vows and rings, while making promises of forever. Once the marriage was legal they set off, covered in confetti, as husband and wife. We hit the beach for some golden hour portraits and returned to the Surf Club for the reception.
This wedding was unforgettable and I am so glad I got to capture it.
Videographer: Maple and June
Florist: Rain Floral Design
Hiring: Borrowed Event Hire
Hair Stylist: Bridal Hair by Emily
Makeup Artist: Rosie Walkley Makeup
Celebrant: Konnubials by Kiki
Kristen and Vikki's Wildwood Kangaroo Valley Wedding
Taking place in one of the Shoalhaven's most beautiful natural settings, Kristen and Vikki tied the knot on a spectacular deck with amazing views of Kangaroo Valley at Wildwood. They shared heartfelt vows and promises for the future, which made every single person, including myself smile. To complement the surrounding Australian landscape these two opted for beautiful native florals with pops of soft pink. The night was spent celebrating with their closest friends and family and every single detail was perfect. Congratulations girls, I am so happy for you both.
Venue: Wildwood Kangaroo Valley
Flowers: Lily Ever After
Celebrant: Cathryn Philpott from Coastal Ceremonies
Hair Stylist and Makeup Artist: Emma McGill
Lachlan and Maree's Butter Factory Wedding
On Saturday the 1st of October Lachlan and Maree tied the knot in a traditional ceremony at All Saints Anglican Church in Nowra. Once married, they set off with their bridal party for some afternoon portraits around The Butter Factory where they were joined by their friends and family for a sit-down reception. The two had their first dance outside, overlooking the stunning grazing land that surrounds the venue. Lachlan and Maree are the sweetest couple and it was such an honour to photograph their special day.
Church: All Saints Anglican Church, Nowra
Reception Venue: The Butter Factory
Florist: Ivy Lane
Minister: Rev. Campbell Mackay
Daniel and Kelly's Culburra Wedding
Spectacular ocean views, modern florals with a pop of colour, and a relaxed vibe - talk about a beautiful coastal wedding. Every detail of Daniel and Kelly’s Culburra wedding was beautiful and intentionally crafted for a great celebration. The original plan was to get married outdoors overlooking the beach, however the rain forced them to make a plan b. Monica and the team at Hoorah were quick to respond to the changing weather and re-located the ceremony indoors allowing the couple to say “I do” at the Culburra Surf Life Saving Club.
The pair kept things traditional, spending the morning apart and laying eyes on each other for the first time at the end of the aisle. There was a big emphasis on family throughout the day, and what better value to base a marriage on. Unfortunately the afternoon portraits were interrupted by another down pour. The couple were so good about the rain, and embraced the extra time with their guests who were overjoyed to celebrate with the couple upon their return.
Thank you Daniel and Kelly for allowing me to celebrate your marriage with you both and document the day. Congratulations.
Venue: Culburra Surf Life Saving Club
Style, Hire, coordination and florist: Hoorah Events
Celebrant: Robyn-Lee Brodie
Make-Up Artists: Kelly Simpson and Joanne Watters
Hair Stylists: Jasmine Miller and Joanne Watters
DJ: Marc Thompson
Catering: Schlicky's Woodier Pizza, The Grazing Girls and Em's Place
Cake Maker: Jerusha Curtis
Welcome to the world Billy
It was such an honour to be invited to the Southern Highlands to catch up with Samuel and Brittany to capture some of the first photos of their little one. Billy is the sweetest little boy and he has already made his mum and dad so proud. It’s incredible to see how quickly he has already recognised the sound of his parents voice and how these three look like they’ve been a family all along. Congratulations, he is perfect!
Josh and Lily's Southern Highlands Wedding
On the 29th of September at The Robertson Hotel Josh and Lily tied the knot. With heavy rain forecast they had to have their ceremony indoors, which added a moody elegance to the day. The pair couldn’t have asked for a more perfect setting to match their style, with the hotel’s quirky interiors and beautiful chandeliers. The whole day was very personal, they exchanged heartfelt vows and gathered with friends and family for a celebration that had everyone on the dance floor. Congratulations guys, what a day!
Venue: The Robertson Hotel
Celebrant and MC: Married by Adam
Florist: Amanda Grace Creative
Video: Two Folk Film
Makeup: Pro Hair and Beauty
Hair: Hair by Marlie
Dj: Unity Entertainment
Extra hire: Let Us Shine For You and Event Haus
Nathan and Tamika's Terara Riverside Gardens Wedding
Spring weddings are so romantic, especially when they are held in a private formal garden. Imagine a beautiful venue on the edge of the riverbank, sprawled across 5 stunning acres. Nathan and wedding was packed with gorgeous details and personal touches, it is a must to see!
Their ceremony took place at Terara Riverside Gardens, surrounded by their closest family and friends. They spent the afternoon having their portraits taken while exploring the rose sanctuary, the secret garden and watching the sun set over the Shoalhaven River. The celebration continued long into the night, in the marquee which had been styled beautifully by the bride.
If your dream wedding includes dried florals, modern signage and a love with family as the focus then this ones for you.
Venue: Terara Riverside Gardens
Celebrant: Cath Philpott – Coastal Ceremonies
Makeup Artist: Loretta Spinelli
Hair Stylist: The Hair Quarters
Styling, Hire or Coordination: Heart & Timber
Catering: Bumpy Road Catering
Alcohol Supplier: Meet Mabel
Grazing: Grazing Girls
Cake Maker: TNT Creations
Gown: Love Marie Bridal
Surprise Proposal
This was such a romantic surprise marriage proposal in Ulladulla, NSW. Edward contacted me a couple of months before his proposal. He wanted to surprise his girlfriend by getting on one knee at one of the most beautiful beaches on the south coast. Unfortunately the week of the surprise came and Ulladulla was hit with torrential rain. Determined to still pop the question he adjusted his plans and organised the sweetest proposal at the AIRBNB. When Mrunal opened the door she was lead by a path of red rose petals to a neon sign that said Will You Marry Me? Edward got down on one knee, presented her with a stunning engagement ring and asked her to be his wife. Of course, she said yes! Moments after, the couple were joined by close family and friends who were so excited to share in the joy.
Congratulations Edward and Mrunal, you deserve all the happiness in the world!
Lachlan and Maddie's Wedding at The Homestead Berry
Lachlan and Maddie had been looking forward to getting married, but the pandemic got in the way. After rescheduling their initial plans, the pair were overjoyed the day had finally come and on the 17th of September they tied the knot in a beautiful garden ceremony. The Homestead in Berry played host to the entire celebration including some memorable moments for the bride with her family and bridesmaids in the bridal suite.
There was so much to love about this wholesome wedding, from the country landscape, the beautiful styling and soft modern florals. Lachlan and Maddie are the kind of clients who instantly feel like friends, they are welcoming and loving to everyone and you could feel that reciprocated from the people they surround themselves with. I am so glad I got to be the one to share in the happiness of their wedding, thank you for bringing me along guys and congratulations!
Venue: The Homestead Berry
Celebrant: Married by Matty
Makeup Artist: Natalie Gauci
Catering: Rabbit and Co
Alcohol Supplier: Henry Clive Caravan Bar
DJ: The Vintage Stylus
Styling and Hire: The Wedding and Event Creators
Florist: Flowers on the Mill
Live Music: Finley Geach
The Woods Family
Last weekend I got to work with one of the nicest families at one of my favourite beaches, Greenfields in Jervis Bay. The Woods siblings decided to catch up with their partners and partners to update their family photos and we all had such a great time capturing some natural moments. Here are the highlights.
Sean and Sally's Engagement Session
Deciding to spend forever with your best friend, that’s the easy part. Picking a photo location for your engagement session, that’s where it gets a little more tricky. You want a stunning spot that’ll photograph nicely and will allow you to feel comfortable even if people are close by. On the south coast we are spoilt, there are so many beautiful beaches in Jervis Bay that are surrounded by national park which means we are able to shoot with different backdrops all within a few minutes walk.
Last weekend I met up with Sally and Sean at Blenheim to capture some engagement photos. It was great to get to know the couple ahead of their wedding and we had lots of fun focusing on natural photos. Congratulations on your engagement and see you at the wedding!
Welcome to the world Nate
Welcoming a newborn into your family is a beautiful, emotional time. As a newborn and family photographer, I love when I have the opportunity to document these early days as everyone in the family gets to know its newest member. That’s why it was such a real pleasure to meet up with friends and clients Amber and Andrew for an in home session with baby Nate. Congratulations guys, he is adorable!
Rhys and Kareen's Wedding at The Cove Jervis Bay
Beach weddings are so amazing, especially when they are held at a private resort. Imagine a wedding venue hidden in the middle of Jervis Bay with uninterrupted ocean views and surrounded by National Park. Now add stunning florals, beautiful fairy lights and some incredible modern styling. Rhys and Kareen’s wedding was packed with swoon worthy details and personal touches, making every detail one to remember.
While the weather wasn’t perfect, nothing could dampen the spirits of these gorgeous newlyweds. They said “I do” in an intimate ceremony, surrounded by their closest love ones. They strolled the surrounds for some bridal portraits before making their way to the wedding hall for an evening reception full of fun.
If your dream wedding is traditionally romantic then you can’t go past this one for inspiration!
Venue: The Cove Jervis Bay
Celebrant: Andrew Baldino
Florist: Tulipana
Hair and Makeup: House of Glamour
MC: Andrew Baldino
Music: All About Her (Andrew Baldino’s trio)
Catering: Bumpy Road
Bar Staff: Henry Clive
Cake Maker: Decadence Cake & Gifts
Newborn Session with Amelia Westley
I recently had the honour of taking family photos for new parents Brad and Kiara in their Sussex Inlet home. Earlier this month these two welcomed their daughter Amelia into the world, and already she has filled their lives with so much love and happiness. It’s funny how quickly you adapt to having kids and how your little ones feel like they were there all along. Congratulations guys, Amelia is perfect!
Angela and Donovan's Wedding at Shoal Bay
The sparkling turquoise waters and white sands of Shoal Bay made the perfect backdrop for Donovan and Angela to say I do. They had an intimate ceremony on the beach which was followed by an afternoon reception at Salt, a unique holiday property with unbeatable views overlooking the Bay. The couple couldn’t have asked for a better day to get married, it really was perfect in every way. I felt so honoured to be asked to travel to this special ceremony and I was made feel so welcome by the newlyweds.
Congratulations Donovan and Angela, enjoy your highlights.
Venue: Salt Shoal Bay
Pastor: Paul Geelan
Florist: A Beautiful Occasion
Makeup Artist: Amour Hair Artistry
Hair Stylist: Amour Hair Artistry
Emily and Shivam's Wedding at The Barn on The Ride
Shivam and Emily got to experience their wedding not once, but twice. Having already tied the knot the month prior in a traditional Indian wedding it was time to do it all over again this September. The pair decided to tie the knot overlooking Pigeon House Mountain and surrounded by the idyllic Milton countryside.
Their big day was filled with colorful florals and decor that perfectly complemented The Barn on The Ridge’s rustic interiors.
From the heartwarming first looks to the bride walking down the aisle with both parents, the whole day was filled with beautiful emotion. You could feel so much love in the air at their wedding and the happiness really was contagious. I am so happy for you guys and so honoured to be part of your day. Enjoy the highlights!
Venue: The Barn on the Ridge
Celebrant: Rosey Naylor-Clark (a friend of ours)
Florist: Frankie Fleur
Makeup Artist: Natasha Bowling
Hair Stylist: Chelsea Taylor
Styling, Hire or Coordination: Upon A Star Events
MC: Jess Norris
Music or Entertainment: Jason Norris
Catering: Wandering Woodfire Oven
Alcohol Supplier: Hello Huey
Dessert: Scoops Gelato
Robert and Courtney's Wedding at The Cove Jervis Bay
Soft blush floral arrangements, silk slip gowns, and modern styling pieces - Robert and Courtney’s wedding tied together chic and romance, making their celebration the definition of elevated coastal. And with the perfect blank canvas venue, two stunning gowns, and an all night dance floor, this wedding just kept on giving.
The two said “I do” in a private ceremony at The Cove, overlooking the crystal clear waters of Jervis Bay. Todd Mayhew officiated the marriage in a heartfelt ceremony that featured beautiful floral pillars that framed the shore behind them.
After tying the knot, the celebration continued in the wedding hall. With beautiful table florals, moody candles and a ceiling installation, the venues interiors really stood out. I had such a good time laughing with these newlyweds as they kept me entertained all day. Thank you for hosting one hell of a wedding!
Venue: The Cove Jervis Bay
Coordination: Hoorah Events
Bar Staff: Henry Clive
Florist: Ivy Lane Collective
Celebrant: Todd Mayhew
Catering: Duck Duck Goose
Hire: South Coast Party Hire
Music: XYDJ
Nanny Hire: South Coast Nannies
Hair Stylist: Absolute Hair by Tia
Makeup Artist: Beauty Room by Britt
Blake and Annie's Vow Renewal
On the third of September 2022, Blake and Annie joined their friends and family to renew their vows at The Novotel North Wollongong. The pair had a specific vision for their day which was bought to life with the help of Hire A Bridesmaid. They wanted to celebrate their love along the coastline so Novotel was the perfect choice for the celebration. I had an amazing time celebrating with this fun loving couple and I wish them every happiness.
Venue: The Novotel North Wollongong
Celebrant: Lisa Roden - Love Lisa Celebrant
Makeup Artist: April Khamis - April K Makeup
Hair Stylist: Naomi Shalala - Exquisite Hair by Naomi
MC: Kerstyn Welsh, Hire a Bridesmaid
Music or Entertainment: Premiere DJs
Shay and Andrea's Woods Farm Wedding
Rain may be the ultimate fear for any couple on their big day, but not for Shay and Andrea. This couple embraced the unpredictable weather and made the rain on their Woods Farm wedding work in their favour. On a whimsical property with so much rustic charm - their rainy day actually made for the sweetest photos.
The highlight of the day was before the ceremony when the bride and groom met behind closed doors in one of the cottages for a first touch, a private moment they shared to settle the nerves while still waiting for the aisle to see one another. They had a beautiful heartfelt ceremony in the bush chapel which followed a reception in the barn where they finally got to sit down and celebrate with their friends and family.
From the cute transparent umbrellas to a bespoke barn, scroll through these highlights to find out how the pair celebrated their marriage and didn’t let the bad weather rain on their parade.
Celebrant: Shannon O'Heir
Hair Stylist: Jodie Day
Makeup Artist: Kayla K
Catering: Garnish Catering
Live Music: Kahuna Duo
