Old Noarlunga Winery Wedding – Mellora & Dan
Southern Adelaide was showing off with perfect weather—sunny skies and just a hint of a breeze, ideal for capturing Mellora and Dan’s magnificent wedding day. Held at the iconic St Francis Winery, the setting couldn’t have been more picturesque for this joyful occasion.
Old Noarlunga, with its rustic charm and sweeping vineyard views, provided the perfect backdrop. As a wedding photographer, capturing the essence of such a unique venue like St Francis Winery brings a certain thrill. Every corner offers a new perspective, a new story to tell, making each photo a treasure trove of memories.
Mellora’s Preparation
The day kicked off in the St Francis bridal suite, bustling with excitement. Mellora, alongside her bridesmaids and her mother, was a vision of calm and happiness. The suite was filled with laughter and playful banter as they got ready. The air was light, charged with anticipation and the sweet sound of giggling echoed as they shared moments of joy while prepping for the big day.
Capturing these intimate moments is always special. The interaction, the detailed shots of the wedding dress, shoes, and jewelry, all contribute to the narrative of the day. Mellora’s radiant smile as she slipped into her gown was a highlight, beautifully reflecting the bond and warmth shared with her loved ones.
First Looks
The excitement peaked during the first looks. Mellora and her father shared a heartfelt moment under the famed weeping willows at St Francis Winery. This was one of those instances where you could genuinely feel the love and pride radiating from her dad. Meanwhile, Dan made his grand entrance in a giant Hummer, wine bottle in hand, embodying the spirit of celebration.
As Dan stepped out, ready for his own first look, a groomsman played a cheeky trick, tapping him on the shoulder before Mellora could. The laughter and surprise captured in those photos are some of my favorites. It’s moments like these that add a personal touch to the wedding album, making it uniquely theirs.
Pre Ceremony Glamour Photos
Before the ceremony, we explored the St Francis grounds for some glamour shots. The rustic stonework of the winery, combined with the natural light filtering through the branches, created an ethereal setting. Mellora and Dan were naturals in front of the camera, their love and excitement palpable, making every photo vibrant with emotion.
These sessions are always an adventure, discovering new angles and using the natural beauty of Old Noarlunga to enhance the romantic feel of the day. The couple’s easy-going nature allowed us to experiment with different poses and settings, resulting in stunning, magazine-worthy photographs.
Old Noarlunga Winery Wedding Ceremony
The ceremony itself was a blend of elegance and quirky moments. Set against the backdrop of the winery’s old stone buildings, the scene was picturesque. As Mellora walked down the aisle, the air was thick with anticipation. The ceremony was filled with laughter, notably when Mellora’s mum received a stuffed goat as a ‘dowry’—a hilarious family inside joke that had everyone in stitches.
The handfasting ritual, where Mellora and Dan bound their hands together as a symbol of their union, was particularly moving. It was a beautiful testament to their commitment, sealed with a heartfelt kiss, which I captured in a series of tender, emotive shots.
More Glamour Photos
Post-ceremony, we took advantage of the golden hour, venturing a short distance from the venue for more glamour photos. This part of the day allows for some relaxed, yet striking captures. With the soft, fading light creating a golden glow around them, Mellora and Dan looked utterly in love, completely at ease as they strolled through the vineyards.
These moments are precious; they reflect a pause in the hustle of the day, giving the couple a chance to soak in their newlywed status while I document these first moments of their journey together.
St Francis Winery Wedding Reception
The reception at St Francis Winery was nothing short of spectacular. With speeches that ranged from touching to uproariously funny, and a dance floor that was never empty, the atmosphere was electric. Mellora and Dan’s choreographed dance was a highlight, a perfect blend of elegance and fun that kept everyone cheering.
As the night progressed, the dance floor remained the center of action, with guests dancing away under the twinkling lights. This lively part of the evening provided endless opportunities for candid shots, capturing the joy and vibrancy of the celebration.
Throughout the evening, our newly introduced selfbooth service added a unique twist, allowing guests to upload photos via a QR code. Although there were some hiccups, Mellora and Dan’s openness to incorporate this new technology into their special day was greatly appreciated. It was an invaluable learning experience, and thanks to their feedback, the selfbooth service is now fully operational and ready to enhance future celebrations. 🙂
Mellora and Dan’s wedding at Old Noarlunga Winery was a remarkable event, and being their wedding photographer was an absolute honor. From the serene preparations to the lively reception at St Francis Winery, every moment was filled with laughter, love, and unforgettable memories. Here’s to many more years of happiness for the lovely couple!
