Nestled in the heart of Petwood, the Mandalay House stands as a hidden gem, beautifully situated between the scenic Adelaide Hills and the refreshing start of Riverland near Murray Bridge. Imagine a venue that’s a stone’s throw away from the bustling Princes Highway yet feels like it’s in its own tranquil world.

With its mesmerising rolling valley hills and a garden that’s nothing short of a work of art, you can tell it’s tended with an abundance of love.

Preparation

Kingsley, our charming groom, was in the whirlwind of preparations. His excitement was palpable. Amidst the historical elegance of the Mandalay House, there was Kingsley, surrounded by his closest mates, adjusting his tie, polishing those shoes to a perfect shine, and sharing a few light-hearted moments before he would see his beautiful bride-to-be. Time seemed to fly by, and with a tight schedule, every moment counted.

Groom shoes with rose

Groom having tie checked

Brother of Groom checking tie

Groom peering out doorway

Groom standing with hands on hips

Jemma, just across the house in a nother room was encapsulated in her own world of bridal bliss. The atmosphere was filled with soft giggles, the hum of makeup brushes, and the subtle rustling of her dreamy wedding gown. Even in the midst of the quick preparations, Jemma was the epitome of grace, with her bridesmaids showering her with love and care, ensuring every detail was just perfect.

Bride smiling next to window

Closeup of ring on hand

Engagement ring on banksia

Engagement ring in between shoes

bride being helped near window

Bride being helped by two helpers

First Look

Jemma and Kingsley decided to embrace a heartfelt first look in the enchanting gardens of Mandalay House. As a wedding photographer, this moment always gets me – the anticipation, the raw emotion, and the overwhelming joy. The lush green backdrop of the garden intensified their pure love for each other, creating a moment that’s nothing short of magical. Just when we thought it couldn’t get any more adorable, their furry friend made a special appearance, resulting in an utterly heartwarming portrait of the trio.

We head out around the grounds for a bit of a photoshoot, making use of the front gardens of the house and almost having Kingsley rip Jemmas arm off as they ran up the driveway – make me giggle at how eager Kingsley was to follow instructions to a fault!

Groom waiting for his first look

Bride approaching the first look

First look between bride and groom

Bride and groom in between pines

Bridal kiss in between pine trees

Bride and groom under flowering tree

Bride and groom with dog

bride and groom in between pencil pines

Mandalay House Wedding Photography

bride and groom in the whiskey room

Mandalay House Wedding Ceremony

As the sun cast its golden hues, the outdoor ceremony was nothing short of dreamy. With the day being blessed with abundant sunshine, the extended shadows and the gentle cool breeze made the setting even more divine. There they stood, Jemma & Kingsley, hand in hand, amidst their loved ones, promising each other a lifetime of togetherness. Their vows resonated with pure love, echoing the charm of Adelaide Hills and the serenity of the Riverland.

Wedding sign chalkboard

Bridal entrance with dog

Groom watching bride approach

Mandalay House wedding ceremony

Smiling bride during sunny ceremony

Listening to the wedding celebrant

Sunny Wedding Ceremony

Wedding Day Dog

Bride laughing at groom during ceremony

Groom looking at bride

bride laughing during vows

Wedding rigns being retrieved from dog

Ring being placed on grooms finger

First Kiss at Mandalay House wedding

Bridal exit at Mandalay House wedding

Outdoor Reception

Post the heartfelt ceremony, it was time for some joyous, but laid-back celebrations. The outdoor reception had a vibe of its own. The sun slowly giving way to a beautiful twilight, laughter echoing, clinking glasses, and stories being shared. The weather played a perfect partner, making the evening even more enjoyable. You could see Jemma & Kingsley, basking in their newly-wedded glow, mingling, dancing, and making the most of every moment with their dear ones.

Bride talking to guests

Guests playing coits

Wedding cheese cake

Bride and groom cutting their wedding cake

Guests speeches

Cheech giver

Glamour Photos

Capturing Jemma and Kingsley’s love story amidst the stunning landscapes was a treat. While they wanted to spend most of their time with the guests, I managed to steal them away for a bit during the golden sunset hour. The vibrant shades of the sky, the silhouette of the Adelaide Hills, and the duo’s undeniable chemistry made for some frame-worthy captures. And as night dawned, the garden’s mesmerising lighting setup gave us some unforgettable shots.

Bride standing in front of groom at sunset

Groom giving bride a kiss

Bridal kiss leaning on a tree

Bride and groom dancing in field

bridal portrait out standing in field

Bride and groom under gum tree at sunset

Mandalay House Gardens at night

Bridal kiss in the Mandalay House Gardens

Mandalay House Wedding Photo

Bride and groom under fairy lights

Bride and groom under stars

Mandalay House Wedding Reception

The night was young and the celebrations continued. Moving from the cool outdoors to the rustic surrounds of the Mandalay House’s function hall, the reception was alive with music, dance, and endless joy. Each corner was filled with merriment, love stories, and cheers to new beginnings. And as their wedding photographer in this splendid Adelaide setting, I couldn’t have asked for a better canvas to capture the magic of Jemma & Kingsley’s love story.