When Kara and Patrick chose me to be their wedding photographer, I knew we were in for a special treat. The venue they picked, Mt Crawford’s Old School House, is a hidden gem that perfectly encapsulates the rustic charm of the Adelaide Hills. This historic location offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty, making it an ideal spot for a romantic and memorable wedding. The Old School House, with its quaint architecture and serene surroundings, provided the perfect backdrop for Kara and Patrick’s big day.

The ceremony began with a unique twist. Instead of the traditional first look, Kara and Patrick opted for a “first touch” around the corner of the Old School House. This intimate moment was filled with anticipation and excitement, as they held hands and exchanged a few whispered words without actually seeing each other. It was a beautiful way to start their journey, and I could feel the love and connection between them even from behind the lens.

Mt Crawford’s Old School House Wedding Ceremony

The ceremony itself took place just a short distance from the Old School House, in a picturesque grove of towering trees. The autumnal leaves created a stunning canopy of reds, oranges, and yellows, casting a warm glow over the entire scene. Kara arrived in style, making her grand entrance in a vintage VW Kombi. This classic vehicle added a touch of nostalgia and fun to the day, perfectly complementing the rustic vibe of the venue.

As the ceremony began, the priest gave a gentle warning about the crunchy leaves underfoot, which added a charmingly natural soundtrack to the proceedings. Kara and Patrick exchanged their vows beneath a homemade arbour crafted from sticks, a testament to their love and creativity. The personal vows they shared were heartfelt and moving, leaving not a dry eye among the guests. The combination of the natural setting and the couple’s genuine emotions made for a truly unforgettable ceremony.

Vintage white VW bus adorned with wedding ribbons drives down a picturesque autumn dirt road in South Australia.

A couple exchanges vows under a large tree, surrounded by their bridal party and guests, during a serene autumn wedding ceremony.

Bride walks towards groom under a flower-adorned arch in a beautiful outdoor autumn wedding ceremony.

A serene outdoor wedding ceremony under a large tree, with the bride and groom exchanging vows amidst autumn leaves and guests in formal attire.

Elderly woman and man share a solemn moment under a tree at an outdoor ceremony with groomsmen watching attentively.

A bride and groom exchange vows under a rustic floral arch, surrounded by natures beauty.

Bride and groom exchange vows under a tree canopy during a serene autumn wedding ceremony.

Bride and groom share a romantic kiss under a rustic arch during their autumn outdoor wedding ceremony.

Bride and groom exchange rings under a floral arch during a serene outdoor wedding ceremony.

A happy groom in a gray suit holds a bouquet, surrounded by friends, at a vibrant fall outdoor wedding.

Fall wedding bliss: Bride and groom seated at a floral-adorned table, surrounded by bridesmaids and groomsmen in a picturesque park.

Bride and groom share a joyous moment during a forest wedding ceremony, surrounded by nature, groomsmen, and an officiant.

Bride and groom exchange heartfelt vows under a floral arch in a picturesque autumn outdoor wedding.

Bride and groom walk down an aisle of fallen leaves, surrounded by joyous guests throwing flower petals in a picturesque woodland wedding.

Glamour Photos

Following the ceremony, we took advantage of the stunning surroundings for some glamour photos. The Old School House area is a photographer’s dream, with its mix of rustic buildings, lush greenery, and the ever-changing light filtering through the trees. Kara and Patrick were naturals in front of the camera, their joy and love shining through in every shot. We wandered through the grove, capturing the beautiful interplay of light and shadows created by the autumn leaves.

One of my favorite parts of the day was shooting among the pine trees in Mt Crawford. These tall, straight trees create a dramatic and almost surreal atmosphere, making for some truly striking photos. The bridal party was in high spirits, and their laughter and smiles added a wonderful energy to the session. We made sure to keep things light-hearted and fun, ensuring everyone felt relaxed and enjoyed the moment.

A joyous autumn forest wedding with a smiling bride and groom, surrounded by bridesmaids, groomsmen, and a vintage cream van.

Newlywed couple share a joyful moment under autumn leaves beside a vintage Volkswagen van.

Bride and groom share a tender moment by a vintage cream-colored car on their wedding day.

Newlywed couple shares a romantic kiss in a serene forest setting with a vintage van nearby.

Bride and groom with their wedding party under a large tree in a picturesque autumn setting.

Bride, groom, and wedding party celebrate joyfully under a large tree in vibrant autumn setting.

Newlyweds share a joyful embrace under a canopy of autumn leaves in a romantic outdoor setting.

A bride and groom share a tender moment in a sunlit, lush green forest, surrounded by natures beauty and the magic of their love.

Bride and bridesmaids share a joyful, intimate moment with bouquets in hand and veil draped over them.

Newlywed couple shares a tender moment under a veil, surrounded by natures beauty.

A bride and groom share an intimate moment under a sunlit forest canopy on their wedding day.

Three friends in suits share a laugh at an outdoor wedding, surrounded by autumn leaves and trees.

Newlywed couple strolls hand in hand through a sunlit, enchanting forest, enveloped by natures beauty.

Bride and groom share a joyful walk on a rustic forest path, surrounded by lush greenery and soft sunlight.

Celebrate love with a stunning blue sapphire ring nestled in a vibrant floral bouquet.

Bride and groom share a romantic kiss under a majestic ancient tree in a serene forest setting.

Bride playfully lies on the laps of bridesmaids and groomsmen, laughing during an outdoor forest wedding photoshoot.

Bride and groom share a joyful, intimate moment on a forest slope, captured in timeless black and white.

Bride reaches out to groom running towards vintage Volkswagen van in forest wedding scene.

A newlywed couple walks hand in hand along a secluded forest pathway, surrounded by towering evergreens.

Bride and groom share a joyful moment in a rustic outdoor wedding setting surrounded by golden grass and autumn trees.

A joyful moment captured as a woman shows off her engagement ring, her hand resting on her partners shoulder, both smiling warmly.

Bride and groom share a joyful, intimate moment with foreheads touching, set against an autumnal park backdrop.

Bride and groom share a loving moment by a vintage cream van with their joyful wedding party in a rustic, natural setting.

Couple shares a joyous embrace surrounded by vibrant autumn foliage in a secluded forest clearing.

Newlyweds share a tender moment in front of a rustic wooden door, with a vintage Volkswagen van nearby, capturing the timeless charm of their special day.

A bride and groom walk hand-in-hand under a canopy of trees on a romantic autumn path.

Bride and groom share a joyous moment in front of a rustic stone wall and wooden door, capturing love and celebration.

Bride and groom with their wedding party in front of a rustic stone wall and wooden door, capturing the joy of their special day.

Gumeracha reception

After the glamour photos, we headed to Gumeracha for the reception. The private property chosen for this part of the celebration was nothing short of spectacular. The centerpiece was a delightful rustic old barn with a massive wooden door that made for some fantastic photo opportunities. The barn’s weathered textures and warm tones provided a cozy and inviting atmosphere, perfect for an intimate and joyous celebration.

The reception itself was a feast for the senses. Kara and Patrick decided to go with a gourmet toastie bar, a unique and delicious choice that was a hit with all the guests. The variety of flavors and the comforting warmth of the toasties added a fun and casual element to the evening. As the sun set, the barn was lit up with fairy lights, creating a magical ambiance that set the stage for heartfelt speeches, laughter, and dancing.

Enchanted forest-themed wedding cake with chocolate frosting, personalized plaque, and whimsical decorations, surrounded by rustic floral arrangements and glass bottles.

Bride and groom make a joyful entrance into a beautifully decorated reception tent with rustic charm and lush greenery.

Bride and groom celebrate with guests at an elegantly decorated wedding reception in a tent with floral arrangements and candles.

Newlyweds share a joyful toast with guests at their elegantly decorated wedding reception.

Charming evening event in a lit marquee tent with guests, surrounded by autumn trees and a cozy stone house.

Bride and groom share an intimate moment surrounded by dreamy lights and smoky ambiance.

Bride and friend share a joyful moment under a floral arch at a wedding.

Gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches piled high on a rustic wooden platter.

Guests toast and celebrate at an elegantly lit wedding reception in a tent adorned with string lights and romantic decor.

As a wedding photographer, there’s nothing quite like capturing the magic of a couple’s special day. Kara and Patrick’s wedding at Mt Crawford’s Old School House was a perfect blend of rustic charm, natural beauty, and heartfelt moments. Every detail, from the “first touch” to the autumnal ceremony and the cozy reception, came together to create a day that was truly unforgettable.

As I close in on having captured over 500 weddings in Adelaide and beyond, I’m always inspired by the unique stories and beautiful moments that each couple brings. Kara and Patrick’s wedding was a true celebration of love, and I’m so grateful to have been a part of it. Here’s to many more magical weddings and unforgettable memories!