Coromandel Valley Wedding – Simone & Marty
Simone and Marty’s Coromandel Valley wedding was an absolute delight, filled with love, laughter, and the kind of relaxed charm that perfectly suited this lovely coouple. The sun graced the day with its warm glow, illuminating every moment shared between these two wonderful people. Their venue, the serene Sturt Valley Linear Park, was the ideal backdrop for a celebration that felt more like an intimate gathering among close friends and family than a traditional wedding.
I’ve known Simone since I was very young. She was my families go-to masseuse for years and one of the first supporters of my photography journey. I still remember her purchasing one of my prints from Japan. Seeing her on her wedding day, glowing with happiness, was a special full-circle moment. My Mum still keeps in touch with Simone, making this wedding feel like a reunion of sorts.
Preparation
Marty started his big day in a truly unique setting—his boxing club. It’s not every day you see a groom slipping on cufflinks next to punching bags, but this setting felt so authentically him. The space was brimming with energy, and we had a great time snapping some playful shots inside the ring. Marty and his groomsmen embraced the fun with matching hats that added a touch of flair to their outfits.
The boxing club’s gritty charm added contrast to the elegance of the day. Candid moments of laughter mixed with a few serious portraits made for a memorable session. It was clear that Marty’s friends shared his sense of humor and camaraderie, and those emotions came through in every frame.
Simone’s preparation was lovely and laid back. She and her bridesmaids got ready on the back deck of a friend’s house, bathed in the sun. Her dress, a masterpiece of delicate details, hung among the trees across the road for some dreamy pre-wedding photos.
The bridal party ventured to a nearby canopy of trees for group photos, where the dappled sunlight added an ethereal glow to the images. Simone’s joyful spirit was contagious, and her bridesmaids matched her energy with laughter and excitement. The arrival of the limo, slightly too big for the quaint side street we were heading to for the cermeony, only added to the fun.
Coromandel Valley Wedding Ceremony
The ceremony took place in a charming public BBQ area of Sturt Valley Linear Park. A circular floral arbor stood proudly by a bubbling creek, creating a picturesque and intimate setting for Simone and Marty to exchange their heartfelt vows. Guests gathered under the shade of tall trees, enjoying the tranquil sounds of nature.
The simplicity of the ceremony was its strength. With genuine emotions and heartfelt promises, Simone and Marty held everyone’s attention. Following the ceremony, a nearby marquee offered a smorgasbord of delicious food, with guests mingling, laughing, and soaking up the laid-back picnic-like atmosphere.
Sturt Valley Linear Park Lunchtime Reception
The reception was a reflection of Simone and Marty’s easygoing personalities. Guests spread out on the grass, children played lawn games, and the aroma of awesome food wafted through the air. It felt like a community picnic—a celebration of love where everyone was part of the story.
One standout moment was a surprise performance by a dance troupe Simone is part of. They captivated everyone with an energetic routine that brought even more joy to the festivities. It was clear how much Simone’s community means to her, and this moment added a personal, unforgettable touch to the day.
Thorngrove Manor Glamour Shoot
As the afternoon faded, the newlyweds and I headed to the enchanting Thorngrove Manor. This hidden gem is a photographer’s dream, with its whimsical architecture, manicured gardens, and regal charm. As the sun dipped below the horizon, Simone and Marty glowed in the golden light, their love as radiant as the scenery.
Thorngrove Manor offered a perfect contrast to the relaxed vibe of the earlier celebrations. Its opulent ambiance provided a fairy-tale ending to the day. The photos we captured there are some of my favorites, filled with elegance, intimacy, and the magic of a new beginning.
Simone and Marty’s Coromandel Valley wedding was a day to remember, not because of grand gestures or elaborate details but because of its authenticity. It was a celebration of love in its purest form, surrounded by the people and places that matter most. From the lively energy of Marty’s boxing club to the serene beauty of Thorngrove Manor, every moment told their unique story.
As a local wedding photographer, being part of days like this is a gift. Capturing memories for a couple like Simone and Marty, who wear their hearts on their sleeves and cherish the little things, reminds me why I love what I do.