Viola and Chad’s Thorn Clarke Wines wedding was nothing short of magical, filled with fun, excitement, and a strong sense of love from every corner of the globe. Their long-distance love story made this day even more special, with Viola hailing from Germany and Chad’s romance blossoming while he was abroad. The stunning Barossa Valley backdrop set the perfect stage for this celebration of love, with friends and family gathering from all over the world to witness this beautiful union.

The vibe of the day was electric—everyone was ready to party and share in Viola and Chad’s joy. From the moment the morning preparations started, it was clear this wedding was going to be one filled with laughter and heartwarming moments. With a mix of elegance, humor, and a hint of adventure, their wedding was truly a dream to capture as a Barossa Valley wedding photographer.

Preparation

Chad kicked off the morning with his groomsmen in high spirits. The energy was infectious, and it was all about the boys having a good time. Chad’s father-in-law even jumped in to help with cufflinks, adding a nice personal touch to the preparations. Photos captured this camaraderie—lots of laughter, jokes flying around, and Chad proudly showing off his motorcycle in some playful shots. It was a morning filled with excitement, yet there was a sense of calm too, as Chad seemed ready to marry the love of his life.

NBA cufflinks on carbon fiber background: Oklahoma City Thunder, Miami Heat, Los Angeles Lakers logos.

NBA team logo cufflinks for Oklahoma City Thunder, Miami Heat, and Los Angeles Lakers on a carbon fiber surface.

Man with ginger hair buttoning shirt in bright entryway, exuding joy and anticipation.

A man with ginger hair smiles while buttoning his white shirt in a sunlit entryway, preparing for a special occasion.

Vibrant red blazer on hanger against frosted glass-paneled modern door.

Vibrant red InStitchu blazer on black hanger against a modern frosted glass door, highlighting its tailored fit and luxurious texture.

Six men in suits posing outside a modern house, highlighting camaraderie and celebration.

A group of six men, dressed in formal suits with a standout in red, pose joyfully in front of a modern suburban house, celebrating a special occasion.

Men in suits walking on a sunny day, led by one in a bright red suit.

Celebratory moment as a man in a red suit leads four groomsmen down a sunny residential street.

Men in suits walking confidently in suburban street celebrating special occasion.

A vibrant man leads a group in suits down a sunny suburban street, capturing a joyful moment of celebration and camaraderie.

Confident man in a red suit posing outdoors in a suburban neighborhood.

Charismatic man in a bold red suit poses confidently under a clear blue sky in a suburban neighborhood.

Man in suit walking down a minimalist hallway with plant and basketball hoop.

A suited man walks towards an open door in a minimalist hallway with a playful basketball hoop and a touch of nature.

Group of men in suits with motorcycle helmets in front of modern house.

Formal gathering of seven men in suits, showcasing camaraderie and a passion for motorbikes with stylish helmets and a sleek black motorcycle.

Meanwhile, Viola’s preparations were just as stunning but with a completely different vibe. Set in the beautiful Gawler Park Estate, the scene was elegant and filled with anticipation. Viola and her family soaked in the luxurious surroundings of this opulent estate, and it was such a joy to photograph these moments. The bridal gown, the laughter between Viola and her family, and the soft light that poured through the estate’s windows created a serene atmosphere. Chad arrived for a private first look in the grand ballroom, where emotions ran high. The love in their eyes as they saw each other was palpable and a moment neither will forget.

Red-orange high-heeled sandals with ankle strap and embellished toe band, elegant and stylish.

Elegant red-orange high-heeled sandals with ankle straps and embellished toe bands, perfect for making a bold fashion statement at formal occasions.

Luxurious red floral arrangement with carnations, roses, white buds, and jeweled embellishment.

Luxurious red bouquet featuring carnations, roses, white buds, and a jeweled embellishment exuding romance and elegance.

Elegant lace wedding gown hanging in sunlit window with serene natural backdrop.

A lace wedding gown hangs elegantly in a sunlit window, casting an ethereal glow with a serene natural backdrop.

Bride getting ready, intimate makeup moment, serene atmosphere, wedding preparation scene.

Brides serene preparation as makeup artist works, in softly lit room reflecting intimate and special wedding day anticipation.

Bride getting ready in a sunlit room with elegant decor and scenic outdoor view.

Bride receives loving help with her gown, bathed in natural light, against a backdrop of elegant decor and lush greenery.

Bride dressing scene with flower girl in white dress and floral headband.

A flower girl helps a bride with her dress in a sunlit room, capturing a tender wedding preparation moment filled with elegance and familial love.

Close-up of hands with gold nails on a lace wedding dress, featuring a ring.

Elegantly manicured hands with golden nails rest on a lace wedding dress, with a delicate ring adding subtle glamour.

Bride in elegant gown, facing garden through sunlit glass doors in serene room.

A bride stands elegantly in a sunlit room, gazing out through glass doors at a lush garden, her lace gown glowing softly in the natural light.

Bride and flower girl sharing a serene moment in natural light, showcasing elegance and innocence.

A bride and flower girl in charming dresses share a serene moment filled with sunlight, highlighting themes of love and a new journey.

Elegant bride in lace wedding dress holding vibrant bouquet near window.

Radiant bride in an off-the-shoulder lace gown holds a vibrant bouquet by a sunlit window.

Gawler Park Estate Pre-Ceremony Photos

One of the absolute highlights of the day had to be the photos taken at Gawler Park Estate before heading for their Thorn Clarke Wines wedding ceremony. With the rolling hills, cherry blossoms, and even some grand ruins as a backdrop, we had the perfect setting to capture some truly timeless shots. Despite the wind, Viola’s veil fluttered beautifully as we took glamour photos with the Clydesdales that Chad had arranged for her arrival by horse and cart. It was such a thoughtful touch, and Viola’s delight was clear.

Chad, not one to shy away from some playful antics, accidentally knocked over his best man in a hilarious attempt to leap into the group for a photo. It was one of those spontaneous moments that will be remembered and laughed about for years to come. The day was filled with these little bursts of humor that made everything so genuine and enjoyable. It was clear that both Viola and Chad, while excited for their wedding day, were there to have fun and celebrate their love with their closest people.

Emotional groom sees bride in wedding dress, vibrant red suit, serene sunlit room.

Groom in awe as he sees bride in wedding dress for first time, in a serene sunlit room.

Joyful newlyweds toasting in elegant room with nature views and modern classic decor.

Joyful couple in vibrant attire toasting in a light-filled room against a backdrop of elegant decor and lush greenery.

Modern rustic house with solar panels, elegant bride in white gown, and orange bouquet.

Elegant bride in white stands on stone steps of a solar-powered modern rustic house, holding a vibrant orange bouquet under a clear blue sky.

Newlywed couple posing with horses in scenic countryside wedding photo.

Newlyweds share a joyful moment with majestic horses in a picturesque countryside setting, blending elegance and natures charm.

Bride in elegant gown with horse in tranquil garden.

A joyful bride in a stunning lace gown poses with her gentle horse, set against a lush garden backdrop filled with vibrant flowers and sunlight.

Person in a vibrant red suit striking a dynamic pose in a stylish, naturally-lit room.

Person in a vibrant red suit and patterned tie striking a confident pose in a chic, naturally-lit room with elegant decor.

Bride adjusts groom’s red boutonniere indoors, intimate wedding moment captured beautifully.

Bride delicately fixes grooms red boutonniere, capturing a tender wedding day moment.

Joyful wedding scene with bride in white gown lifted by men in colorful suits.

Bride in sparkling sneakers joyfully lifted by stylish groomsmen at lively wedding celebration.

Joyful wedding celebration with playful groom, friend in colorful suits, and elegant bride.

Playful moment at outdoor wedding: men in colorful suits share laughter while bride in elegant gown smiles in the background.

Bride and groom in playful chase amid sunlit, serene countryside wedding scene.

Bride and groom in vibrant attire enjoy playful chase in sunlit, lush countryside.

A man in a red suit being lifted by friends at an outdoor formal gathering.

A man in a vibrant red suit is joyfully lifted by friends in black and navy suits at an outdoor formal gathering, set against a scenic natural backdrop.

Bride and groom kissing under a tree in a romantic outdoor wedding scene.

Romantic outdoor wedding kiss under a leafy tree, with a vibrant brides bouquet and a bold grooms red suit in a serene, pastoral setting.

Elegant woman and girl share joyful moment in wedding attire, showcasing beauty and love.

A joyful moment shared between a woman in an elegant wedding dress and a young girl in a fluffy white dress, highlighting warmth and celebration.

Stylish high-top sneakers with gold accents and jewelry boxes featuring rings on wood floor.

Stylish high-top sneakers with gold accents and contrasting colors paired with elegant jewelry boxes featuring a pink gemstone ring and a gold band.

Elegant bride in lace wedding gown with red bouquet at vintage stained glass entrance.

Bride in lace gown with red bouquet stands gracefully by stained glass entrance, framed by warm interiors and inviting light.

Clydesdale horses with pink plumes in harness, ready for a countryside carriage ride.

Majestic Clydesdale horses with pink plumes stand ready for a picturesque countryside carriage ride.

Bride in white dress with family in vintage carriage, celebrating a joyful wedding.

Joyful wedding celebration in a vintage carriage with a bride in a white dress and family, highlighted by vibrant red flowers and elegant attire.

Thorn Clarke Wines Wedding Ceremony

The ceremony at Thorn Clarke Wines was simply breathtaking. Nestled in the heart of the Barossa Valley, the winery offered sweeping views of the rolling hills and vineyards, creating the perfect setting for this beautiful moment. The weather was perfect, and there was a sense of anticipation as the guests gathered on the lawns, surrounded by nature’s beauty. Viola arrived in style, with Chad’s thoughtful gesture of the horse and cart bringing her down the aisle in true fairytale fashion.

Their ceremony was a beautiful reflection of their long-distance love story. From heartfelt vows to emotional moments between the couple, it was an intimate affair that had everyone in awe. One special detail that Viola and Chad requested was for their ceremony to be filmed in virtual reality. It’s something I offer at every wedding – for free, and I love that couples like Viola and Chad appreciate the chance to relive their day in such an immersive way. The ceremony ended with a shower of bubbles floating around as Viola and Chad took their first steps as a married couple. The combination of bubbles, sunlight, and the joy on everyone’s faces made for some incredible photos.

Bride and father beside a horse-drawn carriage in a fairy-tale wedding setting.

A bride and her father stand beside a horse-drawn carriage, creating a fairy-tale wedding scene with vibrant flowers and a serene, lush backdrop.

Outdoor wedding with bride in white gown and groom in orange suit under floral arch.

Bride and groom exchange vows under a floral arch in a scenic outdoor wedding, with the groom in a striking orange suit and the bride in a white gown.

Outdoor wedding with couple in lantern ritual, bride in lace gown, groom in red suit.

A couple in love performs a unity lantern ceremony during their vibrant outdoor wedding, framed by a floral arch against a serene natural backdrop.

Outdoor wedding ceremony with couple in white gown and red suit, lush garden background.

A couple exchanges vows in a vibrant outdoor wedding, with the bride in a white gown and groom in a red suit, set against a lush garden backdrop.

Outdoor wedding ceremony: bride in gown, groom in red suit, floral arch, scenic backdrop.

Idyllic outdoor wedding with bride in white gown and groom in red suit under a floral arch, surrounded by rolling hills and dressed-up guests.

Bride and groom at floral arch outdoor wedding with guests in garden setting.

Bride and groom exchange vows under a flower-adorned arch in a scenic garden, surrounded by joyful guests and a loving wedding party.

Bride and groom exchange vows outdoors in vibrant attire, surrounded by nature and guests.

A joyful couple exchanges vows in a vibrant outdoor ceremony, with the groom in a red suit and guests looking on amid a lush, floral setting.

Outdoor wedding with floral arch, bride and groom, guests on lawn under blue sky.

A beautiful outdoor wedding ceremony under a clear sky, featuring a floral arch, a couple exchanging vows, and elegantly dressed guests.

Newlyweds kissing under floral arch at outdoor wedding ceremony.

Newlyweds share a kiss beneath a floral arch in a stunning outdoor ceremony surrounded by picturesque green landscapes and a blue sky.

Outdoor wedding kiss under floral arch with guests, red accents, and scenic landscape.

Bride and groom share a romantic kiss under a floral arch as guests blow bubbles in a scenic outdoor wedding with red accents and a lush landscape.

Aerial view of a picturesque outdoor wedding with a couple, elegant guests in a circle, and a vintage horse-drawn carriage in a lush, serene setting.

Newlywed couple kissing beside horse-drawn carriage in outdoor wedding celebration.

Newlyweds share a romantic kiss beside a horse-drawn carriage in a picturesque outdoor setting.

Glamour Photos

After the ceremony, we made the most of the stunning Thorn Clarke Wines and Gawler Park Estate for some post-ceremony glamour shots. The horse and cart made another appearance, providing the perfect addition to the photos as the couple shared some quiet moments together. There’s something so romantic about those moments right after the ceremony, when the couple can take a breath and enjoy each other’s company amidst all the excitement.

As the sun began to set, we headed back to the ruins at Gawler Park Estate for some absolutely magical photos. The ruins, combined with the soft glow of the sunset and the rolling hills, created an unforgettable scene. It was here that we were joined by a little black cat, who decided to follow us around as we took photos. Viola and Chad were absolutely charmed by the cat, and it brought a playful and unexpected touch to these intimate shots. It was a moment of pure serendipity that added an extra dash of personality to their day.

Romantic couple in vibrant attire framed by an old building, set against lush greenery.

A joyful couple in colorful attire embraces against a backdrop of lush greenery framed by the aging walls of a dilapidated building.

Couple in formal attire against rustic building with stone, brick, red suit, and white gown.

A couple in formal attire stands joyously against a rustic building, highlighting the contrast between elegance and aged architecture.

Romantic couple kissing in spring nature, bride in white dress, groom in red suit.

A couple shares a romantic kiss in a magical spring setting, the bride in a white gown and the groom in a red suit, surrounded by budding trees.

Romantic couple wedding photo outdoors with elegant attire, lush greenery, and sunny ambiance.

A joyful couple celebrates their wedding day amidst a picturesque natural landscape, with the bride in a lace gown and the groom in a bold red suit.

Romantic couple embracing in nature, featuring a red suit, white gown, and bouquet.

A couple in love shares a joyful moment, embraced beneath blossoming trees, as he lifts her in a white gown and she holds red flowers.

Couple in love sitting on log in park, enjoying romantic, sunlit wedding moment.

Enchanting couple shares a joyful, sunlit embrace in a blooming meadow, with striking contrasts from her white gown and his bold red jacket.

Bride and groom share a joyful moment in nature, with the groom in a red suit and the bride in a lace gown, framed by warm, golden hour light.

Wedding couple in rustic barn with elegant attire and natural lighting.

Elegant wedding couple stands serenely in rustic barn, blending sophistication and natural charm.

Joyful couple playing in a field at sunset, bride in gown, groom in red suit.

Bride and groom joyfully celebrate in a sunny field, with the bride on the grooms shoulders, capturing a playful and loving moment.

A couple embraces in a rustic barn, sunlight highlighting their wedding attire.

A couple shares a loving embrace in a rustic barn, their elegant wedding attire highlighted by streaming sunlight.

Bride and groom interact with cat on scenic rural path, surrounded by lush greenery.

A joyful couple in formal attire crouches on a rural path, captivated by a friendly black cat amidst lush greenery.

Serene landscape with a solitary tree and two figures interacting with flowing fabric.

A large tree stands in contrast to two figures with flowing fabric in a lively display, set against a lush, green landscape.

Bride and groom on grassy hill under a star-filled sky, capturing timeless romance.

Bride and groom share a romantic moment on a grassy hill beneath a starry sky, symbolizing infinite possibilities and timeless love.

Couple dancing on a hill, woman in white gown, man in red suit, joyful moment.

A couple joyfully dances on a grassy hill, the woman in a white gown and the man in a red suit, while a tree stands and a black cat observes nearby.

Thorn Clarke Wines Wedding Reception

The reception at Thorn Clarke Wines was a lively and fun-filled event. It was clear that Viola and Chad wanted their wedding to be a celebration in every sense of the word, and the reception certainly delivered. With a basketball hoop set up, a golf putting area, and a cocktail bar, there was no shortage of activities for guests to enjoy. Chad’s love of basketball was clear, and it was such a fun way to incorporate his personality into the day. Guests mingled, laughed, and embraced the festive atmosphere, making it a reception that felt more like a big party with friends than a formal event.

Viola and Chad’s first dance was elegant and romantic, with their love for each other shining through every step. The speeches that followed were heartfelt, with both families sharing stories and memories that had everyone smiling and, at times, tearing up. It was clear that Viola and Chad’s love had touched many lives, and the joy felt in that room was undeniable. To top off the night, the couple sported matching his-and-hers sneakers, adding a fun and casual twist to the traditional wedding attire. It was the perfect way to end a day that had been full of love, laughter, and personal touches that made it uniquely theirs.

We also had our Selfbooth service running, allowing guests to upload their own photos directly to the couple through a convenient QR code, enhancing their photo collection.

Modern sneakers with gold accents displayed on pedestals, highlighting contemporary fashion elegance.

Striking black, white, and gold sneakers beautifully showcased in a minimalist setting, balancing sophistication and playfulness.

Coupe glasses filled with vibrant red cocktails on a wooden bar top.

Red berry cocktails in coupe glasses arranged on a polished wooden bar, enhancing an elegant and inviting atmosphere.

Freshly baked pretzels in a wicker basket on wooden table with checkered cloth.

Freshly baked pretzels shine in a rustic wicker basket, lined with a blue checkered cloth, set on a wooden table for a warm, European-inspired scene.

Man in blazer practicing golf swing at Thorn Clarke Driving Range with lush greenery.

Man in a blazer completes a golf swing at Thorn Clarke Driving Range, surrounded by lush greenery and sunlight filtering through trees.

Newlyweds celebrate joyfully at wedding bar with drinks, neon sign, and festive decor.

Newlyweds share a joyful toast at a stylish wedding bar adorned with neon lights and festive decor.

A joyful couple in red and white attire in a serene, sunlit outdoor setting.

A joyful couple embraces outdoors, with the man in a bold red suit and the woman in an elegant white lace dress, surrounded by sunlit nature.

Man in red suit leaps to dunk into handheld hoop at festive outdoor event.

A man in a red suit leaps to dunk into a handheld hoop at a festive outdoor event, adding joy to the elegant gathering.

Young child in stylish outfit joyfully playing with bubbles in a sunny outdoor park setting.

A young child in a stylish outfit gleefully plays with bubbles in a sunlit park, capturing the joy and wonder of childhood.

Bride and guests playing basketball at Barossa winery wedding celebration.

Bride and guests enjoy a playful basketball moment at a Barossa winery wedding celebration.

Elegant two-tiered wedding cake with gold drip, roses, and date topper, surrounded by balloons.

Elegant two-tier wedding cake with gold drip, cascading roses, and 15.4.12 we did it topper, surrounded by festive pink, red, and gold balloons.

Joyful bride and groom in festive attire, with balloons and guests, at wedding celebration.

A jubilant bride and groom celebrate with guests amid colorful balloons and a tiered cake at their wedding reception.

Bride and groom cutting wedding cake in joyful celebration with red and gold accents.

Bride and groom joyfully cut their lavish three-tier cake adorned with roses and gold drips, celebrating in vibrant red and white attire.

Joyful indoor celebration with diverse group, wine barrel decor, and warm atmosphere.

Lively celebration with diverse group toasting around a decorative wine barrel in a warm, inviting setting.

Heartfelt emotional moment at wedding with bride, groom, red waistcoat, balloons, and microphone.

Bride and groom share an emotional moment during a heartfelt toast at their wedding reception.

Man giving speech at formal wedding with cake and elegant guests.

Man in a suit delivers a speech at an elegant wedding, with guests and a decorated cake in the background.

Young man in blue suit and baseball cap giving a speech with microphone and laptop.

Young man in a blue suit and red cap energetically delivers a speech with a microphone, supported by notes and a laptop, in a professional setting.

Man delivers emotional speech at wedding reception.

Man delivers heartfelt toast at a wedding reception, dressed elegantly in a patterned waistcoat and maroon tie, capturing the attention of the guests.

Viola and Chad’s Thorn Clarke Wines wedding was a perfect blend of romance, fun, and heartfelt moments. From the picturesque landscapes of the Barossa Valley to the intimate details that reflected their personalities, every aspect of the day was filled with joy and love. As a wedding photographer, it was an absolute pleasure to capture their story, from the laughter-filled morning preparations to the magical sunset photos and everything in between. Their day was truly unforgettable, and it’s clear that Viola and Chad have a lifetime of happiness ahead, filled with the same love and energy that made their wedding day so special.