Victoria and JJ’s Chateau Apollo wedding was the perfect blend of elegance, warmth, and pure fun! Held on a beautiful evening in the heart of Adelaide, their wedding had all the ingredients for an unforgettable celebration. The later ceremony added a touch of romance, with the golden hues of the setting sun fading into the cool glow of city lights. Chateau Apollo’s chic industrial charm set the scene for this lovely couple, and I was thrilled to capture their special day as their wedding photographer.
Chateau Apollo, nestled on Frome Street in Adelaide’s CBD, offered the perfect backdrop for Victoria and JJ’s big day. The venue’s urban vibe, exposed brick, and warm lighting provided a dreamy yet modern aesthetic that suited them perfectly. It was clear from the start that this wedding would be as unique as their love story.
Pre-Wedding Photoshoot
Before the ceremony, we kicked off the day with a beautiful pre-wedding photoshoot. The vibe was relaxed yet brimming with excitement, as Victoria and JJ chose to have a “first look” moment. Their small bridal party stood nearby, ready to share in this intimate part of the day. The famed Chateau Apollo wall, with its raw and urban appeal, made for a striking backdrop as JJ laid eyes on his bride for the first time. The connection between them was palpable—it was one of those moments where the world just seemed to pause.
We also made use of Chateau Apollo’s signature industrial aesthetic for some creative portraits. Victoria and JJ’s bridal party complemented the mood perfectly, adding a sense of laid-back elegance to the shots. With the soft natural light filtering in through the large windows, I captured their laughter and love in a setting that felt both romantic and unpretentious. It was clear that this wedding wasn’t just about the grandeur of the day, but about the genuine connection they shared with their closest friends and family.
Chateau Apollo Wedding Ceremony
When it came time for the ceremony, the atmosphere shifted from light-hearted to deeply emotional. As guests filled the venue, Victoria and JJ greeted each one at the door together, setting a welcoming tone. But then, all eyes turned to the dramatic staircase at the center of the venue—the star of the show for their ceremony. Victoria had a grand vision for this moment, and it did not disappoint. She descended those stairs like a queen, her dress flowing behind her as JJ watched, spellbound. The soft glow of the indoor lighting and the closeness of the guests created an intimate and magical scene.
The ceremony was filled with personal touches, from their vows to the laughter they shared throughout. There wasn’t a dry eye in the house as they exchanged rings, and their elaborate first kiss brought cheers from the crowd. I couldn’t help but smile behind the camera, knowing I was capturing a moment that would be cherished forever. After the ceremony, we all gathered for a large group photo outside. With the sun nearly set, I had to get creative—no drone needed, just a trusty 4-meter pole to capture everyone with the city traffic bustling by in the background. It was chaotic, but oh-so-fun!
Chateau Apollo Wedding Reception
Once the ceremony was over, the night transitioned into a lively reception filled with heartfelt speeches, dancing, and some unexpected surprises. One of the most impressive moments was watching Victoria—already stunning in her bridal gown—take on the role of MC. She truly commanded the room, gracefully leading the evening’s festivities with humor and warmth. It was so fitting for a bride who was already the center of attention to take on the additional role, and she did it with such ease!
Their first dance was choreographed, and it was clear they had put thought into every step. It was a magical moment, with Victoria and JJ floating across the dance floor, completely in sync. And once the formalities were over, the party really kicked off. The dance floor was packed, with everyone celebrating well into the night. There were a few hilarious moments, too—especially when someone noticed that their seating arrangement board, made from pegs, ended up being repurposed into hair accessories for the guests! It added a quirky and spontaneous element to the evening, and by the end of the night, there wasn’t a peg left on the board.
To top off an already fabulous reception, Victoria and JJ made use of our audio guest book. This is always a crowd-pleaser, and their guests didn’t disappoint! Everyone left heartfelt, funny, and sometimes tear-jerking messages that the couple will be able to listen to for years to come. There’s something truly special about hearing your loved ones’ voices long after the wedding day, and this was the perfect way to end their unforgettable celebration.
Victoria and JJ’s Chateau Apollo wedding was more than just a beautiful event—it was a celebration of their love, shared with the people who mean the most to them. As their wedding photographer, it was an absolute joy to capture every moment, from the quiet pre-ceremony excitement to the laughter and fun on the dance floor. Chateau Apollo provided the perfect setting for their unique day, with its blend of urban chic and intimate charm. I can’t wait to look back at these photos with them in years to come, knowing that this was just the beginning of their amazing adventure together.