Sun-dappled leaves, delicate florals, and a joyful buzz surrounded Belinda and Ian’s dreamy Adelaide Botanic Gardens Summerhouse Wedding. Nestled right in the heart of Adelaide, the Summerhouse is that charming little rotunda you’ve probably walked past a dozen times without realizing just how magical it can be. This particular day, it was the centre of a love story filled with laughter, sweet glances, and the perfect mix of elegance and relaxed fun.
Belinda and Ian chose a setting that matched their vibe – timeless, romantic, and full of warmth. With the stunning gardens as their backdrop and the Crowne Plaza Hotel right across the road as their prep and reception spot, everything flowed with ease. This wedding was full of personality, a few happy tears, and plenty of memorable little moments that made it one for the books.
Preparation
The morning began just across the road at the Crown Plaza Hotel in Adelaide. Ian was already surrounded by his groomsmen, the floor dotted with gold golf balls and a sleek putter that hinted at his passion for the green. As ties were adjusted and jackets slipped on, the boys moved to the open restaurant space that overlooked the city skyline. This is where Ian’s second great love made an appearance – fine wine. He and his mates shared a relaxed pre-ceremony tasting, clinking glasses, trading stories, and soaking in the calm before the celebration.
Meanwhile, on another floor of the hotel, Belinda’s suite was abuzz with energy. Makeup brushes swirled, laughter echoed, and the excitement in the air was contagious. Belinda, radiant and nearly ready, was surrounded by a crew of supportive, excited bridesmaids who were fully invested in making her day flawless. Just before heading out, a sweet and emotional first look took place on the restaurant’s balcony – not with Ian, but with her dad. There were misty eyes, warm hugs, and a few quiet moments captured between all the pre-wedding energy. It was a heartfelt pause that set the tone for the rest of the day.
Adelaide Botanic Gardens Summerhouse Wedding Ceremony
The Summerhouse rotunda, tucked into the Adelaide Botanic Gardens, couldn’t have looked more perfect. It’s intimate, shaded by elegant trees, and completely surrounded by nature. The setup was simple and classic – just what Belinda and Ian wanted. Friends and family gathered with smiles and quiet anticipation as the bridal party made their way down the path.
Belinda’s entrance was met with an audible sigh – she looked absolutely stunning against the soft garden tones. The ceremony was heartfelt without being overly formal. Their vows were beautifully personal, and every word carried weight. As they said “I do” under the leafy canopy, the emotion was palpable. The exit was perfectly choreographed too, guiding everyone toward the Wine Centre side of the gardens, creating space for guests to form a loving tunnel without any of the usual obstacles (hello, fountain drama!). The path was lined with cheers, petals, and one of the happiest newlywed smiles I’ve ever photographed.
Glamour Photos
The Adelaide Botanic Gardens always delivers when it comes to stunning backdrops. After the ceremony, we wandered through winding paths, open lawns, and secret little pockets of light. The sun peeked in and out of soft clouds, making the light soft and golden – every photographer’s dream. Belinda’s gown flowed effortlessly with each step, and Ian’s relaxed charm brought such an easy balance to the portraits.
We explored a mix of open garden spaces and tucked-away floral nooks, letting the natural beauty of the Adelaide Botanic Gardens take centre stage. With the newlyweds basking in the afterglow of the ceremony, the shoot felt effortless. Every look, every laugh, every quiet moment they shared translated into the most genuine images. These two had the kind of chemistry that doesn’t need posing – just a little direction, and the rest happened naturally.
Vintage Super8 Video
One of the standout elements of any wedding is the addition of a vintage Super8 wedding video. There’s something undeniably charming about the grainy, nostalgic feel of film. It strips away the polish and delivers raw, emotive storytelling – the kind that makes your heart skip a beat. For Belinda and Ian, it added a nostalgic layer to their modern-day love story.
The Super8 captured little snippets – a hand squeeze, the way her veil moved with the wind, champagne glasses clinking, laughter spilling into the air. Imperfect in the most perfect way, it’s the kind of keepsake you reach for again and again. Their choice to include this throwback film vibe felt effortlessly cool and added such a unique dimension to their day. It was both romantic and real – just like them.
The Crowne Plaaza Hotel Wedding Reception
Back at the Crowne Plaza, the celebration moved into the more intimate conference rooms located on the lower level. These spaces transformed beautifully with soft lighting, elegant florals, and a classic, understated decor that let the joy of the evening take centre stage. The reception buzzed with excitement as guests found their seats and glasses of bubbly began circulating.
The speeches? Unforgettable. There were hilarious throwbacks, heartfelt thanks, and tearful tributes that had everyone reaching for tissues. Belinda and Ian’s connection with their family and friends was on full display – every guest felt included, appreciated, and part of the celebration. As the formalities wrapped up, the dancefloor sprang to life. Their chosen tracks had every generation on their feet, from cheeky twirls to full-blown dance circles. Meanwhile, the photo booth and audio guestbook was pumping all night long. Props flying, faces grinning, and a steady stream of instant memories being made.
Belinda and Ian’s Adelaide Botanic Gardens Summerhouse Wedding was the perfect mix of elegance and authenticity. From those first prep moments across the road at the Rydges to the golden-hour strolls through the gardens, every element felt true to them. There’s a special kind of magic in garden weddings, and this one had it in spades. Adelaide continues to prove it’s home to some of the most stunning wedding locations, and the Summerhouse is definitely a hidden gem worth considering.
