An Ayers House Vow Renewal is the perfect way to celebrate love in the heart of Adelaide, and Francesca and Gian’s day captured that beautifully. After originally marrying in Italy, they chose to gather friends and family back home in South Australia for a second celebration. The heritage charm of Ayers House set the scene for a day filled with music, smiles, and heartfelt moments that honoured their journey together.
As an Adelaide wedding photographer, Ayers House always captures my heart. Its heritage architecture, stately interiors, and lush grounds provide a backdrop that feels timeless. Francesca and Gian’s choice to host their vow renewal there felt like the perfect way to honour their Italian wedding while giving the celebration its own local flavour. It was never about recreating the original day—it was about creating a new memory.
Pre-Ceremony
Before guests began arriving, we had a quiet moment for portraits. Francesca looked stunning in her elegant gown, carrying herself with effortless grace. Gian’s warm smile never wavered as he adjusted his jacket and made sure everything looked perfect. The lighting inside Ayers House gave a soft, golden glow, highlighting the rich textures of the historic walls and grand furnishings. It was the kind of atmosphere that makes every photograph feel cinematic.
The calm before the festivities also gave us time to take advantage of little details: the way Francesca’s veil caught the light near the window, the polished wood floors reflecting Gian’s shoes, and the anticipation sparkling in their eyes. These smaller portraits weren’t overly staged—they were simply about soaking in the mood before the whirlwind of guests and laughter began.
One big request the couple gave me was to take as many photos of their flower girl and page boy as they managed to avoid the camera at their wedding in Italy. Unfortunately the occasion was a bit much for them, but we managed to get a few smiles throughout the day 🙂
Ayers House Vow Renewal Ceremony
The ceremony was short, heartfelt, and completely centred on love. A harpist played gently, filling the Old Ballroom with a melody that instantly made the room feel magical. As Francesca and Gian reaffirmed their vows, guests smiled through misty eyes, and the joy was infectious. Unlike traditional weddings that can sometimes stretch into formalities, this vow renewal was light, simple, and pure.
Once the final words were spoken, cheers erupted. The newly reaffirmed couple made their way down the aisle and out through the grand front doors, where friends and family lined the steps to create a joyful walkout moment. The sound of laughter mixed with applause, and the heritage façade of Ayers House provided a striking backdrop for that triumphant exit. This staged walkout was one of the highlights—it felt celebratory, natural, and incredibly photogenic.
Glamour Photos
Because Francesca and Gian had already enjoyed an elaborate photo session during their Italian wedding, they wanted to keep this part of the day simple. The priority was being present with family and friends rather than spending hours away from the party. So we stayed close to the manor and focused on relaxed, intimate portraits that highlighted the historic beauty of Ayers House.
The photos captured soft glances between them, the swirl of Francesca’s dress against the gravel path, and Gian’s affectionate hand on her back as they walked through the gardens. The sandstone walls and iron balconies gave every shot a romantic elegance without needing elaborate staging. It was all about capturing authentic connection, not creating a production. For a photographer, that kind of honesty is always refreshing.
Ayers House Vow Renewal Reception
The reception was exactly what Francesca and Gian had hoped for—a chance to celebrate with the people they loved most. Inside the richly decorated rooms of Ayers House, guests gathered around beautifully set tables to share stories, laughter, and heartfelt toasts. The speeches touched on their journey together, from Italy to Adelaide, and there wasn’t a dry eye when friends spoke about the strength of their bond.
When it came time for the first dance, the couple swayed gracefully while guests circled around them, clapping along. The dance floor quickly filled, and from that moment on it didn’t empty. Friends and family threw themselves into the music with pure enthusiasm, proving that Adelaide dance floors can rival any European celebration. The energy never dropped, and it was clear that the day was less about formalities and more about togetherness.
Francesca and Gian’s Ayers House vow renewal wasn’t just a repeat of their wedding day. It was a unique chapter that tied together their Italian beginnings and their Adelaide present. Every photo told a story of heritage, family, and the joy of celebrating love in more than one place. For couples looking to host a vow renewal in Adelaide, Ayers House offers an unrivalled blend of grandeur and warmth. It truly sets the stage for memories that will last a lifetime.