Autumn Love at The Woods Farm

We are so lucky that a day in the office means walking around a beautiful wedding venue taking photos at sunset. After a few months off shooting it was great to meet up with some of our favourite past clients and talented industry friends. Tash and James were one of the first couples to book me for their wedding, having seen very little of my work they put their trust in me and for that I am still so grateful. While the weather was not looking favourable with 51km winds forecast we were determined to showcase our work because just like a real wedding the show must go on! Here are some of the highlights from the shoot.

Venue: The Woods Farm
Furniture Hire: The Wedding and Event Creators
Florist: Ivy Lane Collective
Gown: Alca Line Bridal
Hair Stylist: Absolute Hair by Tia
Makeup Artist: Brigette Alana
Gelato: The Gelato Bike
Hair Accessory: And You Bridal
Game Hire: A Game of Love

Nadeesh and Madhuka's Intimate Ceremony

I really feel for my clients Nadeesh and Madhuka, because wedding planning is stressful enough without a global pandemic thrown in the mix. What became apparent to me in the lead up to their big day was that these two are truly in love. They wanted so badly to be married to one another that they were happy to wait for the celebration so long as they could make their marriage official now. With a handful of their nearest and dearest these two tied the knot on Saturday in a seaside celebration and began their life as husband and wife. It may not be how they planned but it was exactly how it should have felt, full of love. Congratulations Nadeesh and Madhuka, I cannot wait to see you again at the reception in a few month’s time.

Ceremony location:Clareville Beach
Hair and Makeup: Nikki Arora
Flowers: Flowers by Helen Brown

Rosevale Home Village

My latest project was photographing Rosevale Home Village. This is a land lease over 50’s community which is home to 100 residents who enjoy a coastal lifestyle. Rosevale overlooks St George’s Basin and is just a short walk to Home Bay, the new shopping centre. Below are some of the photos from my visit.
For any enquiries on please contact Ben by email: manager.rosevale@gmail.com

Studio session with Ivy Lane Collective

With weddings on pause I caught up with local florists Elyza and Andie from Ivy Lane Collective to work on a little studio project. We would all usually be in the middle of a busy season crossing paths only briefly as flowers are delivered to brides on their big days. There was something nice about connecting with other creatives who were itching to do what they love. The girls designed some beautiful bouquets and table arrangements to showcase some of their favourite live and dry flowers. We were lucky enough to use some furniture kindly provided by South Coast Party Hire to display the arrangements.

The Dagger Family

It seems only fitting for new mum Claire that she spent her first mother’s day with her husband Cameron and their daughter Zaalia. With the chaos of Covid-19 this session was the first time Zaalia had her photo taken professionally. We met up at one of my favourite Jervis Bay beaches, and took a stroll along the sand to get some candid photos of this adorable family of three. After a few months break it felt so good to get back behind the lens. Here are a few of my favourite shots from a perfect afternoon.

Bob and Amber's Surprise Elopement

Love is not cancelled!

When COVID-19 caused Bob and Amber to re-consider their wedding plans they decided that they couldn’t wait another day to become husband and wife. Bob and Amber made the decision to get married now and celebrate with friends and family later. Their marriage was kept a secret until after it was made official and with everything going on it was the best news for their loved ones. In my job, I attend a lot of weddings however it’s not very often that I get to witness the marriage too. I am so grateful that I got to be part of such a special occasion for my new friends.

Enjoy looking at these photos from the sweetest South Coast elopement!

Ceremony location: Mick Ryan Park Milton
Celebrant: Kerry Mackenzie
Hair Stylist: Hair by Michelle Boicheski
Makeup Artist: Makeup by Kye
Gown: Caleche Bridal

Jess and Dave's Kiama Wedding

With COVID-19 cutting the wedding season short it makes Jess and Dave’s wedding all the more special. These two tied the knot on the 21st of March, right before the country went into lockdown. Jess planned the entire day herself, she combined modern boho with relaxed coastal. With careful attention to detail she designed beautiful deconstructed bouquets with bold pops of colour. Jess wore the Rosa gown by Grace Loves Lace, which was both simplistic and luxurious with its rose emroidery. Dave and Jess kept things traditional by seeing each other for the first time at the ceremony, making for one very heartfelt moment at the end of the aisle. I loved spending the day with this couple and getting to know their friends and family who were so happy to see these two finally married.

Congratulations Mr and Mrs Matterson, here are some of the best bits!

Venue: Kiama Downs Surf Club
Celebrant: Julie Cassell
Accomodation: Werri Wish Beach House and The Sebel Harbourside Kiama
Furniture Hire: Shoalhaven Party Hire
Hair Stylist: Hair by Mikarlie
Makeup Artist: Makeup by Tayce
Gown: Grace Loves Lace
Catering: Smith Street Foods
Videographer: Salty Skiin
DJ and MC: Davertainment

Charles and Lara's Wedding at Soul of Gerringong

Charles and Lara celebrated their marriage on the 20th of March 2020 at Soul of Gerringong. The couple said their I do’s in the garden, which made for a stunning green coastal backdrop. They chose Todd Mayhew for their celebrant because they wanted someone fun to kick off the party vibe for the day. Charles and Lara decided to stay on site for their portraits so they could spend more time celebrating with their friends and family. Guests enjoyed delicious food by Bumpy Road and the drinks were flowing thanks to Meet Mabel.

You could feel so much happiness and love at the Raath wedding, it was such an honour to be part of the celebration. Congratulations guys, here are the highlights.

Venue: Soul of Gerringong
Celebrant: Married by Todd
Furniture Hire: The Wedding and Event Creators
Hair Stylist: Blushh Hair
Makeup Artist: Rachel Macintosh MUA
Gown: Grace Loves Lace
Catering: Bumpy Road Catering
Mobile Bar: Meet Mabel
Cake Maker: Baked Patisserie

Matt and Laura's Wedding at Altitude 1148

On Saturday the 14th of March, after a year of planning, Matt and Laura said their vows at Altitude 1148 finally making them husband and wife. After the intimate ceremony, the couple joined their bridal party for some portraits at the Wollongong Botanic Gardens. While this is a pretty spot for photos, the location meant so much more for the newlyweds as this is where they had their first date and where Matt later asked Laura to marry him. After taking a stroll around the gardens they headed back to the reception where the couple joined their friends and family for a traditional sit-down wedding with speeches, cake and lots of dancing.

Congratulations Matt and Laura, it was so much fun shooting your wedding!

Venue: Altitude 1148, Bulli Tops
Celebrant: Robyn Foster
Florist: Brilliant Blooms
Hair Stylist and Makeup Artist: Carraro Beauty
Car Hire: Kombi Occasions
Entertainment: Vintage Stylus
Cake Maker: Delaneys Cakes

Dean and Elise's Wedding at Willow Farm Berry

When our friends Dean and Elise asked us what we thought about shooting their wedding we couldn’t say yes fast enough. We know that photographing a wedding means spending a lot of time with the bride and groom, and being there for all the special moments that we would otherwise miss. With the help of her wedding planner, Elise planned the most incredible bohemian inspired wedding. There were so many heartfelt moments throughout the day, a first look with the bridesmaids and then with the father of the bride and some very emotional speeches. We could go on for hours about the Moroccan poufs, Persian rugs and crystals on the tables but what really stood out was the love these two shared. Dean and Elise have a bond like no other, two soul mates that make you so grateful to witness such a powerful romance.

A big congratulations to the new Mr and Mrs Adams, we are so glad you found the love you both deserve. We love you guys!

Wedding Planner: Jessica Tomic
Grooms Accommodation: Elanora Gerroa
Wedding Venue: Willow Farm Berry
Celebrant: Ceremonies by Mitch
Brides Dress: Grace Loves Lace
Brides Jacket: Tree of Life
Hair Stylist: Blushh Hair Bar
Makeup Artist: Tayla Jane
Grooms Suit: MJ Bale
Catering: Duck Duck Goose
Mobile Bar: Henry and Clive Caravan Bar
Cake Maker: Cakes by Adrienne
Florist: Petal Pushers Sydney
Arbour: @alldeanw
Furniture Hire: South Coast Party Hire
Decor: Pow Wow Parties and Glamping
Rings: Laura Miers
Marquee Hire: Matakata Tipi Hire
Videographer: Tinz Media
Music: Chuppa and Nick

KNK Builders Cambewarra Renovation

From concept to completion KNK Builders can bring your vision to life. This family-owned and operated business specialises in both new builds and renovations, no matter the size or scope of the project they have solutions to meet every clients needs.

I recently re-visited a completed renovation by KNK and I was blown away by the transformation. This beautiful home was built to be north facing and to have uninterrupted views of Cambewarra Mountain. This sustainable home was built using lots of Shoalhaven suppliers, a core value of the company.

Suppliers

Design: Nest Residential Designs
Steel Frames and Trusses: Go Steel South Nowra
Building Materials: Ison and Co
Swimming Pool: Leisure Pools
Cladding: James Hardie Scyon Linea
Windows: Southern Windows
Plumbing: D & S White Plumbing
Electrical: Aulsebrook Electrical
Roof Installation: Enhance Roofing
Roof and Gutters: Ace Gutters
Stone wall, stepping stones and pool pavers: Shoalhaven Brick and Tiles
Decking: DIY Timbers Bomaderry
Lighting: Beacon Lighting
Painting: Shaun Ward Painting
Earthworks: D S Ganderton Bobcat and Tipper Hire
Heating and Cooling: Cool Blue Air Conditioning
Front Door: Hume Doors
Garage Doors: Shoalhaven Garage Doors
Driveway: South Coast Decorative Concrete
Concrete: Eziway Concrete
Fencing: Salway Rural Development
Window Coverings: Luxaflex by South Coast Living Interiors
Carpet: Nowra Carpet Court
Garden Edging: Independent Steel
Solar: Bennetts Solahart
Plants: Berry Wholesale Nursery
Buxus Balls: Buxus Balls of Berry

Now to see the before shots that I captured.

Adam and Leanne's Terara Wedding

In the historic town of Terara, nestled on the south bank of the Shoalhaven River, Adam and Leanne celebrated their wedding with their nearest and dearest. The couple started the day with an emotional first look followed by a ceremony that could be best described as both genuine and heartfelt. The weather was perfect for their al fresco dining under the stars which set the mood for a beautiful evening.

Congratulations Adam and Leanne, enjoy your highlights!

Wedding Venue: Terara Riverside Retreat
Catering: Duck Duck Goose
Furniture Hire: South Coast Party Hire
Hair Stylist: Whyld Hair
Makeup: Tayla Jane
DJ: XYDJ

Home at Callala

Last week I photographed Home at Callala, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of stunning Jervis Bay. This bright and airy holiday home can comfortably sleep 8 guests in the three bedrooms on offer. This cottage-style home boasts both character and comfort. Guests can fall asleep listening to the ocean lap onto the shore and wake up with the bush in their backyard. This multi-level house is the perfect city-escape for those wanting to unwind, relax and explore.

To find out more or to book your stay click this link.

Shoalhaven Garage Doors South Nowra

Earlier this month I visited Shoalhaven Garage Doors in South Nowra to create some new content for their marketing team. I spent some time with Jordy, one of the friendly faces you will meet if you book an in-home quotation. He showed me the brand new mobile showroom and how an in-home appointment runs with his clients. Having photographed this award-winning commercial property on completion I was impressed to see the space fitted out and fully operational.

To book a quotation, request more information or ask for some advice give the team a call on  (02) 4422 0080 or visit their showroom at 40 Cumberland Ave, South Nowra.

Steve and Danielle's Engagement Session

I first met Danielle and Steve two years ago, we chatted about their relationship and the wedding they had just started planning. Last weekend we caught up again for their pre-wedding shoot at Jervis Bay. Photographing this session felt less like a booking and more like a catch up with two old friends.

My heart broke for this beautiful couple when they were told this morning by their venue that they would not be able to get married next weekend due to the Corona Virus. I am so grateful that they have decided to postpone instead of cancelling their wedding and even more grateful that they have picked a week day so I could be there.

Here are some of my favourite photos from our morning together at Greenfields Beach.

Jarrad and Chloe's Terara Wedding

Here are some of my favourite photos from Jarrad and Chloe’s wedding which was held on Saturday the 22nd of March at Terara Park. This couple decided to have a country-style wedding that incorporated the outdoors with lots of rustic styling. The couple said their I do’s on a jetty overlooking a private dam surrounded by friends and family. They explored the property grounds with their bridal party for some intimate portraits before joining their guests in the barn for a night of emotional toasts and a whole lot of dancing. I couldn’t be happier to join in the celebrations of this beautiful couple as they embark on their new life together.

Venue: Terara Park
Florist: Flamingo Florist
Celebrant: Julie Rynne
DJ: TJ Productions
Videographer: GCC Visuals
Alcohol Supplier: Supercellars Bomaderry
Catering: Greenwell Point Butchery
Gown: South Coast Brides
Suits: Tarocash
Flower Girl Dresses: Mumble Jumpier Kids Clothing

Family Session at Greenfield's Beach

This session holds a special place in our hearts because it is our own family. My wife Natalie and her sister Courtney wanted to organise some updated photos of the kids as there have been two new additions in the last year. We had planned to meet at Moona Doona Creek but the weather wasn’t on our side so we needed to go somewhere a little more protected from the wind. Greenfields made the perfect spot for these after school portraits because the little girls could run around, dance on the sand and chase each other. Once we finished the shoot we took the kids to the park for a final play. None of the adults had planned to be in the photos but thought why not take advantage of the chance!

This is just a small selection of images from our afternoon catch up.

Ben and Kariza's Engagement Session

Buckle up for one very cute engagement session!

Earlier this week I met up with Ben and Kariza at the Wollongong Botanical Gardens for a pre wedding shoot. With all the recent rain everything was looking lush and green, making the perfect backdrop for some intimate portraits. They marry later this year and I am way too excited to be a part of their big day! Here are some of the highlights from our session.

Michael and Kristie-Anne's Private Property Wedding

If you love beach wedding vibes, water views and coastal styling then you will love the photos from The Crockett’s wedding. Michael and Kristie-Anne decided to tie the knot in their own backyard and it’s not hard to see why when you see the view. The whole day was about their marriage and their beautiful family. They kept things traditional, spending the morning apart and then coming together for a hilarious ceremony by Adam Straney from The Master of Ceremonies. Following the formalities, the couple headed off for some afternoon portraits at Hyams Beach in Jervis Bay before joining their guests for an evening of speeches, food and drinks and a whole lot of dancing. Here are some of the highlights from a perfect wedding.

Bridal Accommodation: Cloud Nine Jervis Bay
Marquee Hire: Shoalhaven Party Hire
Videography: GCC Visuals
Celebrant: Adam Straney - The Master of Ceremonies
Florist: Ivy Lane Collective
Hair Stylist: Tease Hair Sudio
Makeup Artist: Mac By Meg
Catering: Bumpy Road Catering
Chair Hire: Heart and Timber
Styling: Hoorah Events
DJ: Moovin Music

Jeffery and Kelsey's Wedding at Gold Creek

Jeffrey and Kelsey had originally planned to have their wedding on the South Coast but with the recent bushfires destroying their venue they had to make new plans. The couple did so well to make all new arrangements in just a few short weeks. They held their ceremony at The Chapel at Gold Creek and joined their bridal party at the Nara Peace Park for some fun portraits with their bridal cars. A highlight of the day was the mixing of the sands, a tradition that expresses the coming together of two people. I had such a great time meeting this couple and celebrating with them both. Enjoy the highlights from their big day!

Venue: The Chapel at Gold Creek
Celebrant: Tanya Eames
Florist: Melida Sheffield
Makeup: Ally Trenear