One of the toughest decisions couples have to make when planning their wedding is whether to book a DJ or live musicians. Naturally, much of the weight of the decision will come down to your budget and personal preferences. But whilst hiring a live band is certainly more expensive than hiring a DJ, live music adds an ambience to your big day that often makes the investment worthwhile.
To help you decide, here are four benefits to choosing live music for your wedding.
Groom chair dance
1. A live band generates energy and excitement
Weddings are day-long affairs and by the time the dancing portion of the night kicks off, it’s common for guests to be feeling low in energy. When you hire a live band to handle your music, you create an event within an event. The sense of anticipation grows as the band sets up, and the energy in the room is always raised when the musicians start playing. Live music is often more thrilling and engaging than recorded music, and it can generate an exciting atmosphere that is hard to match with a streamed playlist or DJ.
Groom dancing with guests
2. Live background music creates ambience
Not only can live music get people up and dancing, but it can also set the tone during the quieter portions of your wedding, such as during your drinks reception or throughout the wedding banquet. Live music such as a string quartet or solo violinist can create an elegant ambience, and make your big day feel extra special and romantic.
Dancefloor fun
3. Live performers deliver a one-of-a-kind experience
Live music can make your wedding truly unique. The very nature of live music is that no two performances are ever exactly the same. Plus, you can work closely with the band to come up with a custom setlist that perfectly encompasses your unique love story.
Sometimes bands are open to customising song lyrics to suit the happy couple. You might even be lucky enough to find a musician willing to write a unique love song just for your big day. Or why not learn a choreographed first dance to wow your guests? There are lots of fun ways to use live music to create that unique experience that will cement your big day in the minds of your guests for years to come.
String band with bride and groom
4. Live bands bring quality and professionalism
Experienced wedding bands bring professionalism to your big day to ensure the musical aspects of your wedding run without a hitch. They know how weddings typically flow and how to set up without any stress or interruptions. With high quality equipment to ensure perfect sound quality, and their already established connections with wedding venues, photographers and other key parties, it can be surprisingly easy to arrange logistics. Plus, they know how to read the energy and atmosphere of a room and adjust their performance to keep guests entertained and having fun.
Guests dancing the night away
Choosing live music for your wedding
With 53% of wedding guests reporting that the reception is their favourite part of a wedding day, it’s wise to go all out to make your wedding reception special. When you choose live music, you’re bound to give your guests the most incredible experience and enjoy a fabulous party atmosphere to celebrate your big day.
Live music has the power to elevate your wedding reception to extraordinary heights. By opting for live musicians, you create an immersive and unforgettable atmosphere that will leave a lasting impression on your guests. Unlike recorded music or a DJ, live performances bring a vibrant energy that is infectious and captivating.
The skillful musicianship, the infectious beats, and the raw talent all combine to create a sensory experience that simply cannot be replicated! So hopefully this has convinced you into choosing live music for your wedding!
As you plan your big day, finding the perfect location is key to making your wedding dreams come true. Adelaide is home to a variety of beautiful regions, each with its unique charms and attractions. From the romantic vineyards of the Barossa Valley to the scenic Adelaide Hills, there are plenty of options for couples looking to tie the knot. In this guide, we’ll explore Adelaide’s best wedding regions and help you find the perfect setting for your special day.
As an Adelaide-based wedding photographer, I have had the privilege of capturing countless beautiful weddings in a variety of stunning locations throughout South Australia. Over the years, I have come to appreciate the unique charms and attractions of each of the different regions around Adelaide, and I wanted to share that knowledge, with this guide on Adelaide’s best wedding regions.
Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, and choosing the right location is a crucial decision. By providing a comprehensive guide to the different regions around Adelaide, I hope to make it easier for bridal couples to find the perfect setting for their big day. Each region has its unique features, whether it be the lush vineyards of the Barossa Valley, the stunning beaches of Coastal Adelaide, or the historic charm of the Adelaide CBD. By considering these factors, couples can choose a location that reflects their personalities and preferences and create a wedding day that is both beautiful and memorable.
In addition to helping bridal couples choose a location, I also wanted to highlight the photography opportunities in each region. As a wedding photographer, I understand the importance of capturing beautiful photos that reflect the beauty and emotions of the day. By highlighting the unique photo opportunities in each region, I hope to inspire couples to choose a location that not only looks beautiful in person but also provides stunning backdrops for their wedding photos.
My Guide to Adelaide’s Best Wedding Regions
The Barossa Valley: Romance in the Vineyards
The Barossa Valley is a picturesque wine region located just an hour’s drive from Adelaide. With its rolling hills, charming vineyards, and quaint towns, it’s no surprise that the Barossa is a popular destination for weddings. Couples seeking a romantic, rustic ambiance will love the region’s historic wineries and scenic countryside.
Mclaren Vale Ekhidna winery wedding vineyard photo sunset walk
One of the best things about getting married in the Barossa is the stunning photo opportunities. The vineyards and rolling hills provide a stunning backdrop for your wedding photos, while the charming towns of Tanunda, Nuriootpa, and Angaston offer plenty of picturesque spots for outdoor shots.
Chateau Yaldara wedding ceremony
There are many wonderful wedding venues in the Barossa Valley, including The Louise and Seppeltsfield Winery. The Louise is a luxurious boutique hotel with an onsite restaurant and stunning views of the surrounding vineyards. Seppeltsfield Winery is a historic estate that has been hosting weddings for over 100 years and offers a range of indoor and outdoor spaces to suit any wedding style. For more information on Barossa Valley wedding venues, be sure to check out some of my favourites here.
bridal party together on the grounds of Seppeltsfield winery
Mclaren Vale: Rustic Charm on the Coast
If you’re looking for a wedding location that combines rustic charm with coastal scenery, Mclaren Vale is the perfect choice. This stunning wine region is situated just south of Adelaide and boasts some of South Australia’s most beautiful beaches, rolling hills, and vineyards. I may be a bit biasd being a local, but Mclaren Vale is the pinnacle of Adelaide’s Best Wedding Regions!
bride and groom in vines
Mclaren Vale is known for its warm, Mediterranean climate, which makes it an ideal location for outdoor weddings. The region is home to a variety of wedding venues, including the picturesque Ekhidna Winery and the newly redeveloped Chapel Hill.
One of the best things about getting married in Mclaren Vale is the wide range of photo opportunities. From the vineyards and olive groves to the stunning coastline, there are plenty of beautiful spots to capture your special day. Whether you’re looking for classic wedding shots or something a little more unique, Mclaren Vale has it all.
Bride and groom dance at sunset
Adelaide Hills: Romance in the Hills
Nestled in the Adelaide Hills, just a short drive from the city, lies one of the most beautiful wedding regions in Australia. With its rolling hills, scenic countryside, and charming towns, the Adelaide Hills is the perfect destination for couples seeking a romantic, rustic ambiance.
Adelaide Hills wedding photography
The Adelaide Hills is home to a wide range of wedding venues, from historic estates and grand mansions to quaint cottages and rustic barns. Some of the most popular venues in the region include Mount Lofty House, a grand estate with stunning views of the surrounding countryside, and The Inglewood Inn, a charming old world pub with a beautiful garden space for weddings, and the oldest bridge still in use in SA!
Inglewood Inn Wedding Photo
One of the best things about getting married in the Adelaide Hills is the stunning photo opportunities. The region’s rolling hills, lush forests, and charming towns provide a beautiful backdrop for your wedding photos. Whether you’re looking for a classic wedding shot or something a little more unique – including the odd castle(!), the Adelaide Hills is the perfect place to capture your special day.
Night photo at the manor basket range wedding
The Riverland: Beauty on the Murray
Located along the Murray River, the Riverland is a stunning wedding destination that combines natural beauty with rural charm. While perhaps a bit out of town to be considered one of Adelaide’s best wedding regions – With its picturesque riverfront, sprawling vineyards, and charming towns, the Riverland is a popular choice for couples looking for a unique wedding experience.
Brid and groom with river Murray
One of the most notable features of the Riverland is its stunning natural beauty. From the majestic Murray River to the lush vineyards and orchards, the region offers plenty of opportunities for gorgeous wedding photos. Couples can even take a romantic river cruise or enjoy a scenic helicopter ride to capture some unforgettable shots.
bride and groom in ruin of old cottage
There are many wonderful wedding venues in the Riverland, including the historic Wilkadene Woolshed Brewery and the fun Riverland wine centre. Wilkadene Woolshed Brewery is a unique venue that combines the charm of a historic woolshed with the convenience of a modern brewery. The Riverland wine centre is a popular wedding destination that offers a huge range of accomodation options, and stellar cliff-top views of the river.
Coastal Adelaide: Beachy Bliss
For couples seeking a laid-back, beachy vibe, the coastal region of Adelaide is the perfect choice. From the stunning beaches of Glenelg and Henley to the rugged coastline of Port Willunga, the region offers plenty of options for a seaside wedding.
Wedding photo at Pt Willunga Beach wedding
One of the best things about getting married in coastal Adelaide is the range of photo opportunities. From the soft, golden sands of the beaches to the dramatic cliffs and rock formations, there are plenty of unique and picturesque spots to capture your special day.
Wedding photo at beach with drone
There are many wonderful wedding venues along the coast of Adelaide, including the iconic Adelaide Sailing Club and the rustic-chic The Joinery. The Adelaide Sailing Club is a popular wedding destination that offers stunning ocean views and a range of indoor and outdoor spaces to suit any wedding style. The Joinery is a unique wedding venue that combines the charm of a historic building with the convenience of modern amenities.
Under the jetty
Adelaide CBD: City Chic
For couples who love the buzz of the city, Adelaide’s CBD offers plenty of options for a chic, urban wedding. With its stunning architecture, vibrant nightlife, and gourmet food scene, the CBD is the perfect destination for couples who want a wedding with a modern, cosmopolitan vibe.
Bridal couple in Adelaide Arcade
One of the best things about getting married in the Adelaide CBD is the range of photo opportunities. From the sleek, modern buildings to the charming alleyways and laneways, there are plenty of unique and picturesque spots to capture your special day.
Bride and Groom in the middle of Granfell St Adelaide
There are many wonderful wedding venues in the Adelaide CBD, including the stunning National Wine Centre and the historic Ayers House. The National Wine Centre is a popular wedding destination that offers a range of indoor and outdoor spaces, including a stunning outdoor terrace with views of the city skyline. Ayers House is a historic mansion that has been hosting weddings for over 150 years and offers a range of elegant spaces to suit any wedding style.
Bride and groom in the lights of the Adelaide railway
Adelaide is home to some of the most beautiful wedding regions in Australia, each with its unique charms and attractions. Whether you’re looking for a rustic vineyard wedding in the Barossa Valley or a chic urban wedding in the heart of Adelaide’s CBD, there is something for every couple. Hopefully this little guide I’ve put together will help a bit in your research of Adelaide’s best wedding regions for your big day!
For more information on wedding venues, and not just ‘Adelaide’s best wedding regions’, be sure to check out https://AdelaideWeddingVenues.com as I’ve spent countless hours building that website in order to better help bridal couples find their perfect spot!
I recently had the pleasure of heading out and photographing a bit of a destination wedding photoshoot with Melodie and Brandon in the breathtaking Canadian Rockies. From the towering mountains to the crystal-clear lakes, it was the perfect backdrop for their special photos! We started the shoot at Lake Minnewanka, which was a great warm-up location for the couple. The views of the surrounding mountains were simply stunning and provided a great opportunity for us to capture some amazing shots.
The real highlight of the shoot, however, was our time at Lake Louise. Despite the cold water, Melodie and Brandon were both incredibly game and even got into the lake for some unique and memorable shots. The scenery around Lake Louise is simply awe-inspiring, with the turquoise water reflecting the surrounding peaks in perfect clarity. We made the most of this amazing setting, with Melodie’s stunning wedding dress and Brandon’s dapper suit making them look like they had stepped straight out of a magazine.
Lake Louise Wedding Melodie & Brandon
Melodie and Brandon were both so easy-going and up for anything that it made the shoot an absolute pleasure. They were keen to try different things and experiment with different poses, which allowed us to capture some truly unique and creative shots. It was clear that they were deeply in love, and it was a privilege to be able to document such a special time in their lives.
Wedding candle and flowers
Brandon sitting in sunlight
Example of the ring of fire photo technique
Blue light couples photo
Lake Minnewanka Photoshoot
The photoshoot at Lake Minnewanka was also an incredible experience. The beautiful blue-green water, surrounded by towering mountains, provided a stunning backdrop for the couple’s photos. Despite the chilly weather, Melodie and Brandon were absolute troopers, and we were able to capture some beautiful moments between them.
As we walked around the lake, we found a number of great spots for photos, with the natural beauty of the area complementing the happy couple perfectly. From the mountains in the distance to the trees framing the water, it was the perfect location for some romantic and atmospheric shots.
Lake Minnewaka wedding photo
Wedding couple through tree
Bridal couple sitting at Lake Minnewanka
Bridal couple standing on the shore of Lake Minnewanka
Bridal embrace on lake shore
Bridal couple walking to Lake Minnewanka
Lifting her up the banks of Lake Minnewanka
Lake Louise Wedding Photoshoot
The Lake Louise wedding photoshoot was the real highlight of the day. The turquoise water and the mountains in the background provided a breathtaking setting for the couple’s wedding photos. Melodie’s stunning wedding dress and Brandon’s sharp suit looked absolutely amazing against the stunning natural backdrop.
Despite the chilly water, Melodie and Brandon were both determined to get in and make the most of the amazing location. Their willingness to try new things and push themselves out of their comfort zone really paid off, with some incredible photos captured as a result.
Bride and groom in front of Lake Louise
Bride and groom taking off shoes
Bride and groom taking off shoes to get into lake
Bride and groom walking in waters of Lake Louise
Lake Louise Wedding Photo
Bride and groom splashing one another
Bride and groom splashing one another in Lake Louise
Bride and groom having fun in water of Lake Louise
Groom sitting on shore of Lake Louise
Melodie and Brandon’s Lake Louise wedding photoshoot was a truly magical experience on the other side of the world to my usual Adelaide wedding photography! From the stunning scenery to the happy couple, everything came together perfectly to create a truly unforgettable day. It was an honour to have had this couple stand in front of my camera, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of it!
For those who are already familiar with The Manor Basket Range, you know that it’s a dream location for a wedding, with its unique rustic styling, delectable cuisine, and warm and accommodating staff.
Over the years, I’ve had the pleasure of photographing numerous weddings at this amazing venue, and I’ve built a bit of a reputation for having a bit of a different eye when photographing couples around it’s grounds!
In addition to The Manor Basket Range, I’ve also had the honor of being the photographer for many weddings in the picturesque Adelaide Hills and other incredible venues in the region. The Adelaide Hills are rightly one of the spots on my list of special places in the world to take some incredible wedding photography. The scenes available just suits my landscape mentality extremely well!
Night photo at the manor basket range wedding
Some recent examples of my Manor Basket Range Wedding Photography
If you’re interested in booking an experienced wedding photographer for The Manor Basket Range who will create original and breathtaking photos that reflect your unique love story, I would be thrilled to hear from you. Below are some examples of the most recent weddings I’ve covered at this astonishing venue!
The Manor Basket Range Wedding Photography – Some Thoughts
To make the most of the unique photography locations and scenery that The Manor Basket Range has to offer, it’s crucial to hire a wedding photographer who is intimately familiar with the venue. As someone who knows every nook and cranny of this beautiful location, I am well-equipped to capture your special day with creativity and passion! However I cannot be in two places at once! So here are some tips and tricks I’ve developed for shooting some Manor Basket Range wedding photography.
What makes the Manor So Special?
Situated just a short 30-minute drive from the bustling CBD, The Manor Basket Range is a true escape from the city and an idyllic location to revel in the finest hospitality the region has to offer for a myriad of events. Nestled amidst the rolling hills, adorned with picturesque apple and cherry orchards in the valleys, this venue is truly a sight to behold simply because it’s a freaking Castle! Certainly not something you’d expect to find in this corner of the world.
Manor basket range wedding phtoto
The Manor provides an awe-inspiring and unique backdrop for capturing stunning photos. The natural beauty of the surrounding landscape, with its rolling hills and lush orchards, creates a breathtaking canvas for unforgettable photos. If you’re seeking a truly extraordinary location for your photoshoot, The Manor, Basket Range seems like a world away from the city, offering unparalleled hospitality and an exquisite backdrop for capturing your cherished moments.
Bride and groom in door
The styling at The Manor Basket Range is truly one of a kind. The castle-like vibe of the venue adds an air of elegance and grandeur to any wedding day. Every corner of the estate is thoughtfully crafted to enhance the experience, from the giant chessboard to the intricately designed garden beds. As a photographer, I love exploring the venue and finding unique angles and perspectives to capture the stunning details that make The Manor Basket Range so special.
The Manor Basket Range wedding Reception
Ok, so it’s a castle, so will all our photos be medieval?
One of my favorite things about Manor Basket Range wedding photography is how the venue changes with the seasons. Whether it’s the colorful leaves in autumn, the blooming flowers in spring, or the cozy fireplace in winter, every season brings its own charm and beauty to the venue. It provides endless opportunities for stunning and unique wedding photos that truly capture the essence of the couple’s special day.
Bride and groom in the foliage of orchard
While much of the backdrops available on the grounds has a heavy dose of medieval stone work and one might be forgiven for thinking there is a knight around every corner – there are spots both on the ground, or nearby where you might think you’re in the middle of a dense rainforest, near a river or in the middle of a field.
Bride and groom walking through long grass
A fake castle in the Adelaide Hills? Sounds cheesy..
The Manor Basket Range is a haven for couples who embrace the unconventional and dare to be different on their wedding day. These couples appreciate the traditions of a wedding ceremony but also yearn to infuse their own personality and style into every aspect of their special day. They are not afraid to break away from the norm and add their own unique twist, making their wedding a true reflection of their individuality.
Bouquet toss from moving car
Working with such couples is an absolute joy for me, as I get to witness their creativity and adventurous spirit come to life in their wedding photos. From capturing their personalized details and creative decorations to documenting their heartfelt moments and candid emotions, I strive to tell their love story in the most authentic way possible.
Love heart drone photo of wedding
The Manor Basket Range provides the perfect canvas for these couples to create their dream wedding, with its unconventional and charming elements that lend themselves beautifully to creative photography. As their wedding photographer, I am honored to be a part of their journey, capturing their love and uniqueness in every shot. If you are a couple who appreciates the unconventional and desires a wedding photographer who understands your vision, The Manor Basket Range is the perfect venue for you
Fighting Knights
I often bump into other unconventional wedding celebrants at a Manor Basket Range wedding too – like Bob Mcgilchrist or Deborah Lilley who both have a bit of a tendancy to jump at the chance to get dressed up and really gel into the vibe of whatever it is you’re planning for your day!
The Manor Basket range wedding Ceremony
These couples are not afraid to go against the grain and do something different, such as a grand entrance on a magic carpet into their reception, or perhaps riding inflatable horses? They appreciate the traditions of a wedding ceremony but desire to break away from the ordinary with their venue choice and styling.
Confetti entrance
In my experience, couples who tie the knot at The Manor Basket Range exude a relaxed, easy-going vibe that perfectly aligns with my natural wedding photography style. It’s a pleasure to capture their carefree and fun-loving personalities, and I believe my own personality meshes seamlessly with theirs. Together, we create unforgettable memories that reflect their unique love story in the most authentic way.
Ok Fantastic! Tell me more!
The best thing about wedding photography here, and running about taking photos is that there are so many spots not only on site, but also close by.
Bride and groom in the Australian sunlight 2
There are plenty of ‘money shots’ around the grounds, like the castle keep in the background of the couple on the driveway, the couple at the gates, and the chapel poking through the greenery of the little garden.
Brida and groom walking away from the Manor
But there are also places around the place that are almost ‘hidden’ which makes The Manor Basket Range wedding photography that much more fun!
I hope you enjoyed reading about why I absolutely love taking Manor Basket Range wedding photography! If you’re planning your wedding at this amazing location, or anywhere else in Adelaide or Australia, I’d be stoked to chat with you about being your wedding photographer. Just click here to get in touch and let’s make some awesome memories together! Cheers!
Picture this: A picturesque mountain range in New Zealand, a crystal-clear lake, and the warm glow of the setting sun. We took Wendy and Frank on a helicopter ride embarking on a dreamy wedding photoshoot amidst the awe-inspiring landscapes of Queenstown.
When we arrived in Queenstown, the weather wasn’t looking the best, but thankfully the day after it was clear that we were in for a treat. The weather gods seemed to be on our side, blessing us with nothing but clear blue skies and a stunning sunset. Wendy and Frank were positively beaming with excitement, ready to create magical memories in this slice of paradise.
Queenstown Wedding Photoshoot
Wendy and Frank’s Queenstown wedding photoshoot was nothing short of a fairy tale. The breathtaking landscapes, the joyful laughter, and the undeniable connection between this radiant couple created an experience that will be cherished for a lifetime.
Queenstown, with its majestic mountains and awe-inspiring vistas, proved to be the perfect backdrop for this love-filled adventure. From the snowy peaks of the Remarkables to the vibrant hues of Crighton Peak, every moment was a celebration of love, beauty, and the magic that happens when two souls intertwine.
The Remarkables
Our adventure began with a thrilling helicopter trip that took us soaring to new heights, quite literally! Our first stop was on the majestic Remarkables mountain range, which offered an unparalleled view of Queenstown and its spectacular lake. But this location was covered in a blanket of pristine snow. It was like stepping into a winter wonderland!
As we navigated the snowy terrain, giggles and laughter filled the air. Wendy and Frank embraced the playful challenge, gracefully gliding through the snow – whenever they hadn’t falled over to find the perfect spots for their photos. The contrast between the pure white snow and their radiant smiles was simply mesmerizing. Each click of the camera captured their love, joy, and the sheer magic of the moment.
Bride and groom walking from helicopter
Bride and groom walking in front of helicopter
Bride catching her grooms hand int he snow
Groom leading bride on clifftop
Smiling couple on mountain top
Bride and groom under shadow of mountain
Champagne photo on top of the Remarkables
Queenstown Wedding Photoshoot
groom leading bride in snow
Bridal couple walking away from Helicopter
bridal hugs in snow
Bride and groom looking at one another in front of lake view
Bridal cuddles keeping warm
bridal couple looking out over Queenstown
bride getting a piggy back ride
Walking to the helicopter on the mountain peak
Crighton Peak
After our snowy escapades, we hopped back into the helicopter, ready for the next leg of our adventure. Our destination? The enchanting Crighton Peak. Unlike the Remarkables, this location was adorned with stunning wild grasses, painting the landscape in a kaleidoscope of vibrant hues. The orange tones of the grasses danced harmoniously with the vast blue sky above.
As the sun began its descent, casting a warm golden light, the scene became even more ethereal. Wendy and Frank moved with grace and elegance, allowing their love to intertwine effortlessly with the natural beauty surrounding them. With every step they took, their love story unfolded, creating a visual masterpiece that will forever be etched in their hearts and in the stunning photographs we captured.
Queenstown Wedding Photoshoot Photo
Bride and groom standing on Crighton peak
Queenstown wedding photo with falcon
Bride and groom surveying their domain
Talking bride and groom in front of mountain
Bride and groom in long grass on mountain
bride and groom walking through long grass
bride and groom in front of black helicopter
Groom leading bride along cliff
bride leading groom under blue sky
bridal hugs in front of Milford Sound
Bride and groom kiss on mountain top
Birdal kiss on Crighton Peak
bride spraying champagne on mountain top
Groom leading bride back to helicopter
Hugs in the grass
Bright sunlight illuminating bride and groom
Lens flare beaming between bridal couple
bride and groom standing together in long grass
Groom leading bride through long grass
Laughing bride and groom on Crighton Peak
If you’re planning your own destination wedding or a romantic photoshoot, consider Queenstown in New Zealand as your dream location. Trust me, it’s a place where love and beauty collide, leaving you with memories that will make your heart soar. You just need to dodge the weather a bit…
I’d be super keen on heading back there, so consider us as your wedding photographers!
Until next time, keep spreading love, capturing moments, and embracing the magic of life!
