Ben and Emily's Engagement Session

There’s only one way to kickstart your wedding planning process - booking some engagement photos! Your engagement session is such an exciting part of the journey and the photos are perfect for using for announcements and invitations.

I met up with Ben and Emily ahead of their wedding to capture some portraits of them in beautiful Jervis Bay. We had a gorgeous morning and it was a great way for the couple to get comfortable in front of the camera.

Congratulations Ben and Emily on your engagement and see you guys at the wedding!

The Gulloni Family

If you’ve been following my blog for a while you would have seen these faces pop up over the years. I have known James and Tash since I started my business and I love catching up, hearing about life after marriage, and seeing how their family is going. We met up in Jervis Bay for a family session on the beach. Here are a few of my favourite shots.

Matt and Ashley's Homestead Wedding

After sharing a life together both in Australia and Ireland, when the time came to tie the knot, Matt and Ashley decided to get married locally. They said “I do” at the Gerringong Catholic Church in a ceremony that was lovingly officiated by Father Paul Gurr. Once married, they rang the church bells and set off for a quick drink at the families pub.

Matt and Ashley’s reception took place at The Homestead, the quintessential Berry venue. The afternoon started with portraits overlooking the rolling green hills and rural surrounds. As the sun began to set they joined their friends and families in the Cow Shed for a sit-down reception. It was here we heard how their love story came to be, and how a fling at a festival somehow turned into forever.

Matt and Ashley made our day so enjoyable and we genuinely loved spending our time celebrating with them both. Congratulations guys, here are the highlights.

Venue: The Homestead Berry
Priest: Father Paul Gurr
Florist: The Botanist
Musician & DJ: Kane Dennelly
Hair Stylist: Erin Shanley
Makeup Artist: Mary Alonti

Gavin and Katrina's Coolangatta Estate Wedding

With a picturesque backdrop of Coolangatta Mountain and rolling vineyards, Katrina and Gavin’s spring winery wedding had the perfect setting for a romantic ceremony. Using rustic decor that complemented the country property, beautiful florals and greenery - the couples vision of enjoying local wines and celebrating with their loved ones came to life in the most stunning way possible.

I had lots of fun hanging out with this carefree couple and photographing their special day. We had the most incredible golden hour for the portraits which we took full advantage of.

Congratulations Gavin and Katrina, what a beautiful celebration of love.

Venue: Coolangatta Estate Winery
Florist: Hello petal
Musician: Tim Stevens
Hair Stylist: Level Up Hair Salon
Makeup Artist: Lavish Beauty
Gown: Grace Loves Lace
Videographer: Thomas James Media

Jess and Kaine's Worrowing Wedding

Kaine and Jess had a really fun vision for their big day. They worked together with Planned by Page to bring their wed-stival style celebration to life, which of course included their fur babies. They transformed Worrowing Estate into a dreamy space with stunning florals.

This country homestead hosted both the ceremony and reception, which meant the party could kick off early and roll into the night.

If you and your partner have been searching for wedding ideas to draw fun inspiration from then Jess and Kaine’s Jervis Bay wedding is one for you.

Congratulations guys, this was one really fun day!

Venue: Worrowing Jervis Bay
Coordination: Planned by Page
Videography: Hidden Leaf Productions
Celebrant: Merinda Richardson
Florist: Ruby Oak
Gown: Love Marie
Makeup Artist: Hayley McIver
Bar Staff: Henry Clive
Ice cream: The Gelato Bike
Entertainment: Joe Moore
Pet Coordination: Pets of Honour

Jaydn and Emma's Wedding at The Grange

When the time came for Jaydn and Emma to plan their wedding they knew they wanted a venue that could host both the ceremony and the reception. They chose to get married at The Grange, a venue that has a classic Hamptons feel and has the most incredible views overlooking the surrounding golf course.

Jaydn and Emma spent the morning apart before exchanging vows in front of their closest friends and family who were eager to celebrate their marriage with them. They left the aisle covered in confetti, hopped into a gold buggy and set off to have their portraits taken around the property.

Their wedding celebration was so much fun to be part of. From the first look with Emma’s bridesmaid and father to the wholesome speeches at the reception, I loved every detail and moment spent with the couple.

Congratulations Jaydn and Emma, here are your wedding highlights.

Venue: The Grange Kembla
Hair Stylist: Ella Mae Collective
Makeup Artist: Pippa Sheridan
Celebrant: Kristie Wilkinson
Florist: Leah Mitchell
DJ: Hey Mr Dj
Cake Maker: Cakes By Yvette

Joel and Jacinta's Wedding

A romantic setting in the southern highlands dripping in modern florals, a stunning embellished gown and a formal black suit and tie - need we say more? Joel and Jacinta’s Bendooley Estate wedding was both sophisticated and elegant.

They started the morning apart, getting ready for the ceremony where they would tie the knot outside the Stables overlooking the country landscape. Joel teared up when he first caught a glimpse of his beautiful bride, who was given away by her father. The couple made promises of a lifetime together while also reminiscing on how they ended up here today.

They spent the afternoon exploring the grounds of the incredible venue before making their way back to the reception for speeches, cake and lots of dancing. This wedding was nothing short of breathtaking and the couple were so hospitable to me throughout the whole celebration.

I had trouble narrowing down to just the highlights, but I gave it my best shot. Congratulations once again to Joel and Jacinta, you both deserve every happiness marriage brings.

Venue: Bendooley Estate
Florist: Bloom Boss
Celebrant: Catherine Kennedy
Hair Stylist: Jaimi Irving Hair
Make-up Artist: Zoe Martin
Band: Top Shelf Live

Aaron and Shevaun's Worrowing Wedding

A charming homestead surrounded by Australian bushland and native animals, luscious gardens and gorgeous styling - Aaron and Shevaun’s wedding at Worrowing Estate is the definition of beautiful. They enlisted the help of The Wedding and Event Creators to create an effortless celebration that was an extension of the stunning property.

While the day started traditional with the morning spent apart and the bride given away by her father, the couple made sure that there were many unique details making the day truly them. For their ceremony they took everyone on a trip down a memory lane and spoke of all the moments that brought them here. The celebrant made sure to have everyone smiling and laughing, which was reflective of the fun loving couple.

Aaron and Shevaun hosted a reception that felt like one big party with a DJ, lawn games and music throughout the night. The speeches were hilarious and the dance floor was always full. These two know how to have a good time and have started their marriage the right way - surrounded by the best people and full of so much love and happiness.

We were beyond grateful to photograph this special wedding and left the day with two more friends. Thank you guys and all the best!

Venue: Worrowing Jervis Bay
Planner, Styling and Coordination: The Wedding and Event Creators
Celebrant: Todd Mayhew
Videographer: Two Folk Films
Florist: Jessica Lea Florals
Hair Stylist: Absolute Hair by Tia
Makeup Artist: Natalie Gauci
Catering: Garnish Catering
Bar: Hello Huey
Cake: Applemire Cakery
Music: XYDJ
Bus: Kennedys

Joel and Shannen's Wedding at The Cove Jervis Bay

Joel and Shannen love to have a good time, so when it came to their wedding they knew they wanted to have one big party. And that’s exactly what they did at The Cove. Overlooking Jervis Bay, the pair played scissors paper rock to settle who would share their vows first. They are a carefree couple who spent the whole ceremony laughing. Once married, they explored the beautiful coastline that borders the venue for some portraits before making their way into the reception for a fun night of celebrations.

Congratulations to you both and thank you for having me. Here are the highlights.

Venue: The Cove Jervis Bay
Celebrant and MC: Holy Matrimonty
Florist: Everlasting Gifts and Flowers
DJ and Acoustic Player: Skivi and Co
Makeup: Hayley McIver

Ayla's Newborn Session

Congratulations to new parents Josh and Fi on the arrival of your little girl Ayla. It is always so special to be invited into the family home to document those first couple of weeks where the days all roll into one.

There’s a few reasons I think newborn sessions are important, the first is because the time goes by so quickly and our little ones grow and change from day to day. The second is because as parents we feel like we have lots of photos of our babies, but on reflection realise we were the ones taking the photos and never in them.

This was a session in the nursery, because I like to capture life just as it is, less staged and more of a reflection on the time spent with a new baby.

Worrowing Jervis Bay Styled Shoot

Earlier this month Kyle photographed a beautiful styled shoot at Worrowing Estate. This was a collaborative effort of some very clever South Coast creatives who put their talents and resources together to create a stunning visual wedding concept to inspire couples in the planning process.

On the day of the shoot it began to rain and just like a real wedding we find ways to create beautiful imagery even if the weather is not on our side.

Thank you Jake and Jess for stepping in as our bride and groom for the afternoon, you guys killed it.

Venue: Worrowing
Gown: Lee Bee Bride available locally at Storybook Bridal
Hair and Makeup: Brigette Alana MUA
Flowers: Ever Daisy
Jacket: Bon Love
Stationery: State of Elliott
Vow Books: Christina Stamos Design

Aaron and Kara's Mollymook Wedding

There are so many beautiful locations across the South Coast to tie the knot, with so many of the beaches having the whitest sand and crystal clear water. Aaron and Kara chose Narrawallee for their ceremony earlier this month where they were joined by their closest friends and family.

They spent the morning apart, getting ready, before meeting up to say “I do”. Kara had a heartfelt first look with her father, which was so nice to witness. The ceremony was a reflection of their relaxed personalities, they spent the whole time laughing and smiling as if no one was looking on.

We set off for some afternoon portraits with the bridal party on the beach and then back at the golf course. Their reception had the most amazing view of Mollymook Beach. The night was made complete with funny speeches, a gorgeous cake and all those classic songs that make even the reluctant dancers hit the floor.

I left this wedding feeling really happy that I have found myself doing something I love, with people that appreciate my work. Congratulations Aaron and Kara, thanks for hosting a beautiful wedding and allowing me to document the day.

Celebrant: Joyous Occasions - Penny Paterson
Florist: Ulladulla Florist
Styling: Bluebird Stylists
Musician: Mitch & Met Fa'oa
DJ, Photobooth, and Lighting: NC Entertainment Services
Hair Stylist: Kaotic Hair Creations
Makeup Artist: Teneille's Beauty and & KM Wellness & Aesthetics
Car Hire: Dosh Limousines
Cake Maker: SweetArt Creations.
Attire: Ferrari Bridal & Formal

Andrew and Claire's Wedding at The Cove Jervis Bay

On the 31st of October, after years of planning, Andrew and Claire finally tied the knot. Together with their families, and a little help from the team at Hoorah Events they pulled off the most amazing wedding at The Cove Jervis Bay.

It was so nice to celebrate the marriage of Claire and Andrew and to hear of all the success they have had together as a couple. We meet a lot of couples, and what stood out about these two was how determined they are in life and how supportive they are to one another achieving their goals all while putting their family first.

Congratulations guys, here are the highlights.

Venue: The Cove Jervis Bay
Florist and Coordination: Hoorah Events
Catering and Bar Staff: Rabbit and Co
Celebrant: Amy Watson
Hair Stylist: Kayla Goss
Makeup Artist: Zoe Martin Makeup
Videography: Two Folk Films

Ben and Alyssa's Terara Riverside Gardens Wedding

Ben and Alyssa chose eight of their nearest and dearest to join them in their bridal party at Terara Riverside Gardens last month. They spent their special day celebrating along the riverbank and exploring the beautifully landscaped gardens. With beautiful styling, a gorgeous display of florals and modern furniture, there wedding was nothing short of amazing. My favourite moment on the day was the first look, which took place in the gardens. Keep scrolling for all the best bits as these two became husband and wife.

Venue: Terara Riverside Gardens
Florist:
Lily ever after flowers
Hiring: Heart and Timber
Styling: Piccolo and Poppy
Coordinator: Planned by Page
Hair Stylist and Makeup Artist: K.T. Bridal
MC + Celebrant: Party Central Chris
Videographer: Thomas James Media

Jack and Toni's Wedding

Jack and Toni chose their closest friends and family to share their special day with which took place on the 28th of October in beautiful Narrawallee. Something unique about their wedding was that at the ceremony all the guests faced forward so the couple were the first to lock eyes. It was only once Jack had seen his bride that their friends and family turned around to see her make her way toward him. Following the ceremony we hit the beach for some relaxed portraits with the bridal party. We then returned to Ulladulla for a day time reception where they joined everyone for the real celebration. Congratulations Jack and Toni on your marriage!

Celebrant: Shoshana from Curator of Love Stories
Hair Stylist: Jodie Day
Makeup Artist: Face By Kirsty

Wilson and Blinky's Engagement Session

A couple of weeks ago I met up with Wilson and Blinky for an engagement session in Kangaroo Valley. Kangaroo Valley is a small town in New South Wales, Australia. The Kangaroo River runs through the valley's wildlife-rich rainforests and countryside.

We first met at Hampden Bridge, a Victorian suspension bridge with castle-like sandstone towers, which crosses the river then we set off for some cosy portraits in upper Kangaroo Valley. Spring made the perfect time for this beautiful session.

Having spent the afternoon getting to know the engaged couple it made me really excited to photograph their upcoming wedding in the Southern Highlands.

Christian and Sarah's Bawley Point Wedding

On the 22nd of October Christian and Sarah woke up in separate houses ready to tie the knot in Sarah’s hometown Bawley Point. They spent the morning apart, getting ready for the first look. Once ready, they met up for a private moment where they saw each other for the first time at Sarah’s parents home. It was in this moment that they both instantly relaxed and got excited for the ceremony.

The two had initially planned a wedding overlooking Bawley Point. But when the afternoon rain hit, they did a complete 180 and quickly called their guests to join them on Sarah’s parent’s balcony. This wet weather alternative may not have overlooked the ocean, but it did overlook the place that held so many memories for Sarah growing up.

With many hiccups on the day of the wedding, YOLO became the theme and we have been never met a more carefree couple. We had planned to head out for some more portraits if we got a break in the rain but that break never came. That didn’t seem to bother our newlyweds who just said “let’s go” when we asked if they were up for it.

We had so much fun celebrating with Christian and Sarah and we felt such warm hospitality from their families who were so inclusive of us. Congratulations guys, here are all our favourite shots from the day.

Florist: Ivy Lane Collective
Hair: Beachcombers
Makeup: Devine Makeup Artist
Celebrant: Todd Mayhew
Videographer: Michael David Gray

Ruby Saunders Newborn Shoot

Last week I met up with Kirstin and Ruby for a mother-daughter shoot. This was a lifestyle session that was shot in the family home and took a glimpse into those few moments of bringing a baby home. It was so nice to see how content Ruby was just being cuddled. Congratulations to Jack and Kirstin on welcoming your first child into the world, you guys were born to be parents.

Abbey and Ian's Wedding

After being together for 5 years, traveling the world and buying their first home, it was time for high school sweethearts Ian and Abbey to tie the knot.

On the day of the wedding Ian spent the morning with his groomsmen at the couples new apartment in North Wollongong and Abbey stayed at her parents place in Appin. The two celebrated their marriage in an outdoor ceremony at Killalea State Park with their closest friends and family. They couldn’t have asked for a nicer day or a more breathtaking place to say “I do”.  Once married they set off for portraits with the bridal party before later joining them on the deck at the Novotel North Wollongong for a reception which overlooked the ocean. Fairy lights and beautiful floral table-scapes set the romantic scene as they dined and danced the night away to live music.

If you and your partner have been dreaming of a seaside wedding, then this Novotel wedding is guaranteed to inspire. Thank you Ian and Abbey for sharing your love story with us.

Event planner: Jess from The Novotel
Florist/Styling: Lovers and Fleurs
Videography: Real Nice Films
Tables: Heart and Timber
Hair Stylist: Snip it Lovely
Makeup Artist: Studio Eighty Five
Celebrant: Coal Coast Celebrant
Stationery: The Together Company Design
Music: Mike Miller Music
Dress: Love Marie Bridal Boutique