The Adelaide Hills absolutely delivered the goods for Hillary and Simon’s Howard Vineyard wedding – with golden sunshine, moody autumn tones, and an energy that felt like something out of a dream. Their day was effortlessly stylish and completely true to them, starting from the moment I arrived at Hillary’s parents’ estate just outside Mount Barker. Nestled amongst vibrant foliage, their home looked like a quaint little castle tucked away in the woods – think classic stonework, turrets, and perfectly manicured gardens glowing in the morning light.
The original plan was to keep everything simple, but standing in that storybook setting, we all couldn’t help but joke that they could have just hosted the whole celebration right there – if only there had been more parking! That said, their choice of Howard Vineyard was a stunner and brought the same elegance and warmth as the estate did earlier in the day. The balance of rustic charm and rolling vineyard views gave the perfect backdrop to an already emotional and joy-filled day.
Preparation
Simon and the boys took over the downstairs of the estate in the morning, turning it into a hive of activity. Ties were tied, cufflinks fumbled, and jokes flew around faster than the champagne corks. It was clear from the get-go that his groomsmen were on a mission – keeping nerves at bay and ensuring Simon’s smile didn’t leave his face. And honestly, it worked. Even with the anticipation building, Simon was cool, calm, and radiating that mix of excitement and love that only comes with knowing the best day of your life is about to unfold.
The soft light coming through the cottage windows gave everything a cinematic quality, from the final touch of his jacket to the deep breath he took before heading outside for the first look. You could tell how much care had gone into every detail – from his boutonniere to the polished leather shoes that would soon carry him into his next chapter.
Black suit jacket elegantly hangs on a tree branch in a serene autumn garden, highlighting the harmony of nature and refined craftsmanship.
Sophisticated accessories: mosaic cufflinks, leather shoe, and rings on a wooden surface, highlighting modern elegance and craftsmanship.
Well-dressed man in a wicker chair gazing thoughtfully out a window, surrounded by books in a cozy, light-filled room.
Man in suit adjusts tie, gazing out elegantly decorated rooms window, exuding readiness and introspection.
Groom and groomsmen bond and prep in a scenic outdoor setting, exuding joy and anticipation for the wedding celebration.
Groom joyfully pets a dog at a sunlit garden wedding, surrounded by friends in stylish suits.
Four men in formal attire stand on stone steps in front of an elegant building, likely attending a wedding.
Dapper men in suits chat in a sunlit garden, blending elegance with relaxed camaraderie.
Two men in dark suits, one adjusting the others boutonniere, stand in a sunlit garden, capturing a moment of friendship and preparation.
Meanwhile, upstairs was an entirely different vibe – equally joyful, just with a bit more hairspray. Hillary’s suite was a flurry of lace, laughter, and the delicate scent of her floral bouquet wafting through the air. The bride was radiant even before stepping into her gown, glowing with anticipation and a calmness that made everyone around her feel grounded. Her bridesmaids helped with finishing touches, while her mum fluffed the veil and stole little glances filled with pride.
The house gave us an incredible canvas – arched windows, antique details, and cascading ivy outside added a romantic touch to every shot. As a photographer, I live for that kind of natural beauty. Hillary stood framed by the tall windows, the train of her gown catching soft light while she laughed mid-conversation with her maid of honour. It was easy to forget we still had a whole wedding to get to – the vibe here was already magical.
Just before heading down for the first look with Simon, Hillary shared a quiet, emotional first look with her parents – a moment full of teary eyes, tight hugs, and the kind of love that wraps around you like a warm blanket.
Bridal suite with a white dress by an arched window, red floral curtains, and vintage decor, creating a cozy and elegant atmosphere.
A bride is gracefully assisted by her bridesmaids in a softly lit room, their attention to detail reflecting love and harmony on her special day.
Bride and bridesmaid share a heartfelt moment as they adjust the wedding dress in a softly lit, elegant room.
Bride in flowing wedding dress gazes out elegant window, bathed in soft natural light, creating a serene and timeless moment.
Bride elegantly prepares in a light-filled room, aided by a friend, capturing a moment of calm and anticipation.
Bride in a flowing gown stands in a softly lit room, cradling an earthy-toned bouquet, surrounded by elegant decor and warm, natural light.
Bride gazes joyfully out the window, sunlight illuminating her and a vibrant bouquet in her arms.
Bride radiates joy with a vibrant bouquet, standing gracefully in a warmly lit room, framed by floral curtains and classic decor.
Bride surrounded by bridesmaids in green, preparing joyfully by a sunlit window with a floral bouquet and elegant gown.
Radiant bride smiles under a delicate veil as a bridesmaid assists, capturing a joyful wedding moment in warm, natural light.
Brides serene moment captured with a delicate veil and vibrant bouquet in soft, natural light.
Bride stands contemplatively before French doors, framed by red floral curtains, in a serene, light-filled room with elegant decor.
Bride holds vibrant bouquet as parents enter, sharing a joyful pre-wedding moment in an elegantly decorated room.
A heartfelt embrace between loved ones, with a vibrant bouquet symbolizing celebration and warmth in a cozy, elegant setting.
A man in a suit has a floral boutonniere carefully pinned by a woman in an elegant, softly lit room.
Bride gazes out window, holding bouquet in softly lit, timeless room.
First Look Photoshoot
Hillary and Simon chose to share a private first look before the ceremony, and it could not have been sweeter. On the pathway leading to the grand front door, with warm autumn leaves crunching underfoot, they saw each other for the first time. That moment had everyone (including us) holding back a little tear. Simon’s jaw literally dropped – and Hillary’s smile could’ve powered the whole Hills region.
After that emotional moment, we made the most of the gardens around the estate. Fiery red maples, and winding paths made for a dreamy pre-ceremony shoot. They were so relaxed in each other’s arms, which made it easy to capture their connection. Every kiss, every glance – it all just worked with the earthy tones and golden afternoon glow. These two belong in a rom-com.
A groom awaits his bride in a sunlit garden, surrounded by lush greenery and elegance, during a serene first-look moment.
Bride and groom share a joyful moment in a sunlit garden, surrounded by lush greenery and love.
Sunlit embrace: A couple shares a tender kiss in a verdant garden, dressed in elegant wedding attire.
Elegant couple in a garden, bride in flowing gown and groom in a dark suit, stand on stone steps surrounded by lush greenery and classic architecture.
Newlyweds share a kiss on a sunlit garden path, surrounded by lush greenery and a charming historic backdrop.
Elegant bride and groom in a lush garden, framed by greenery and classic architecture, sharing a serene wedding moment.
A couple embraces on stone steps amid gothic architecture and vibrant autumn foliage, creating a romantic, fairytale scene.
Bride shares joyful moment with family in garden ceremony, surrounded by love and vibrant blooms.
Joyful women in elegant dresses share laughter and bouquets at an outdoor wedding celebration.
Radiant bride in strapless white dress with autumn bouquet, glowing amidst serene garden backdrop.
A couple shares a romantic dance amid vibrant autumn leaves, framed by a historic chapel, celebrating their wedding day.
A couple embraces in a magical autumn landscape, surrounded by vibrant leaves and golden sunlight.
Autumn wedding bliss: A joyful couple embraces love amidst vibrant fall foliage.
Newlyweds share a loving gaze amidst a picturesque autumn backdrop.
Bride in a radiant white gown celebrates amidst vibrant autumn leaves on a sunlit path.
A couple shares a tender moment on their wedding day, embraced by the vibrant hues of autumn foliage.
Bride and groom delight in a playful dance under sunlit trees, surrounded by natures beauty.
Howard Vineyard Wedding Ceremony
Their Howard Vineyard wedding ceremony took place beneath the enormous tree out the front of the main reception hall – a natural canopy that filtered the sunlight perfectly. With the sun dipping low behind the hills, a soft lens flare streamed through the branches, dancing behind Hillary as she stood opposite Simon. The light framed her like a halo.
The ceremony began in the most fun way – with a kiss! They didn’t waste time, wanting guests to snap those early moments before the more heartfelt part of the ceremony unfolded. Their celebrant wove stories of their life together, from late-night video games in Korea to settling back into Adelaide with creativity and care at the centre of their relationship. Everyone was completely swept up in the laughter, the emotion, and the gentle wind rustling the vineyard leaves behind them.
Outdoor wedding ceremony beneath a grand tree with colorful floral decorations, white chairs, and a picturesque natural backdrop.
Bride joyfully descends stone steps with her father, surrounded by lush greenery in a radiant wedding ceremony.
Groom awaits his bride at a serene outdoor wedding, surrounded by rustic floral decor and a picturesque landscape.
Enchanting outdoor wedding ceremony under a grand tree at a vineyard, featuring a bride, groom, and guests in a picturesque, natural setting.
Romantic outdoor wedding kiss under a tree canopy with guests, floral aisle, and vineyard backdrop at sunset.
Outdoor wedding beneath a leafy tree, with a bride, groom, and officiant exchanging vows in a serene, sunlit setting.
Romantic outdoor wedding under a tree canopy with vibrant flowers and a vineyard backdrop, capturing the bride, groom, and officiant.
Bride and groom share vows in an intimate outdoor autumn wedding setting.
Bride and groom share vows in a serene outdoor wedding, surrounded by elegant greenery and warm natural light.
A couple exchanges vows in a picturesque outdoor wedding, surrounded by lush greenery and rustic charm.
Bride and groom exchange vows under a grand tree at a rustic, nature-inspired outdoor wedding ceremony.
Couple weds under a grand tree with live music and floral decor, set against a vineyard backdrop.
Bride and groom embrace under a tree at vineyard wedding with guests and live music, creating a romantic, rustic ambiance.
Bride and groom embrace under a vineyard tree, capturing a romantic and rustic wedding moment.
Joyful outdoor wedding ceremony with a happy bride and groom walking down the aisle amid vibrant flowers and celebrating guests.
Bride and groom share a kiss under a leafy tree, surrounded by joyful guests and autumnal decor at a picturesque outdoor wedding.
Glamour Photos
Since we had taken plenty of portraits earlier in the day at the estate, our glamour session at Howard Vineyard was short but sweet. The late golden hour was still lingering as we ventured into the vineyard rows for some relaxed shots with the bridal party. The contrast of the Australia bush against Hillary’s crisp white dress and the soft navy tones of Simon’s suit made every frame pop.
The bridal party shared a few cheeky toasts in the vines, arms linked and heels kicking up dirt with every laugh. The mood was easygoing and genuine – no stiff poses, just real fun and real love. It was one of those fleeting windows of perfect light and perfect company where everything comes together effortlessly.
A couple shares an intimate moment on a sunlit forest path during golden hour, dressed in wedding attire and surrounded by natures tranquility.
Enchanted wedding couple shares a tender moment on a tree branch in a serene forest.
Autumn forest wedding with a joyful bridal party strolling through natures golden embrace.
Newlyweds embrace under a flowing veil, sharing a joyful, intimate moment.
Newlyweds share a serene moment with foreheads touching, eyes closed, and gentle smiles, enveloped in romantic soft light and a delicate veil.
Bride and groom share a magical sunset embrace in a picturesque natural setting.
Bride and groom share a romantic embrace in an autumnal vineyard, surrounded by golden leaves and vibrant colors.
Bride and groom share a romantic sunset moment on a rustic swing under a tree, surrounded by ethereal golden light.
A couple shares a joyful moment on a swing in a picturesque outdoor setting, highlighting their love and happiness during the golden hour.
Elegant bridal bouquet on grass with couple in wedding attire sharing a moment on a swing in a picturesque, serene outdoor setting.
Bride and groom share a tender moment in a golden field, framed by trees and bathed in the warm glow of a setting sun.
Newlyweds walk hand-in-hand through a lush vineyard, surrounded by vibrant grapevines and wearing elegant wedding attire under a serene, gray sky.
Bride and groom smiling joyfully amid lush greenery, capturing a moment of love and celebration outdoors.
Howard Wineyard Wedding Reception
The Howard Vineyard wedding reception space was absolutely glowing. Fairy lights hung like stars from the ceiling, bouncing off polished wine glasses and the delicate table settings that nodded to Hillary’s creative flair. Every corner felt curated but never too polished – just the right mix of whimsy and warmth. Hillary’s touches were everywhere, from personalised menus to a photo wall filled with travel memories and goofy snapshots.
The band kicked off with upbeat favourites that had guests dancing from the first course. It was clear the dancefloor was going to get a workout – and it did. Between the hilarious speeches and the heartfelt first dance, the room buzzed with energy. Hillary – being a fellow photographer – had a keen eye for moments, and she’d clearly planned her day around good light and even better vibes. Safe to say it paid off in spades.
A couple shares an intimate moment amid a beautifully lit, rustic-industrial wedding setting with vintage charm.
Elegantly set table with a floral centerpiece of yellow roses and pink protea, enhanced by warm bokeh lighting.
Newlyweds joyfully share a pastry at a rustic wedding reception, with live guitar music enhancing the celebration.
Bride and groom share a joyful embrace against a rustic, industrial backdrop, surrounded by natural light and greenery.
Newlyweds celebrate with joy at a rustic, cozy wedding reception surrounded by cheering guests.
Man in a dark green suit delivers a lively speech at a rustic-themed formal event.
Elegant celebration: Woman in white dress forms heart gesture in cozy, rustic setting with festive table details.
A couple dances joyfully at a rustic wedding, surrounded by live music and vibrant floral decor.
Elegant couple dances joyfully at a wedding, surrounded by live music, string lights, and rustic charm.
Dynamic celebration with a man in a bright blue suit exclaiming joyfully, while guests enjoy a lively event amidst rustic stone walls.
A joyful couple dances surrounded by cheering guests and live music at a wedding reception.
Lively indoor celebration with guests dancing and chatting in a rustic setting, highlighted by vibrant attire and joyful expressions.
Joyful guests capture a festive selfie in elegant attire at an indoor celebration.
A joyful couple exits their wedding amidst sparklers and smiling guests, capturing the essence of celebration under twinkling lights.
To cap it all off, Hillary and Simon made their exit under a tunnel of sparklers held by cheering guests. The steps out front of Howard Vineyard lit up with that golden sparkle, laughter echoing into the cool night air. It was the perfect send-off for a couple who had poured so much love and intention into every moment of their day.
From the first look to the final dance, their Howard Vineyard wedding was overflowing with heart. Hillary and Simon crafted a day that celebrated not only their love but the lives they’ve built together – filled with creativity, humour, adventure, and the people who matter most. As their photographer, I felt lucky to have been there to catch it all.
