Gez Xavier Mansfield Photography

Jac & Jack’s Sydney Wedding

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Jac & Jack’s Sydney Wedding

Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron Wedding – 10th March, 2023

It’s super rare these days to jump in the car and head south to the big smoke from the Hunter Valley, for a Sydney wedding, Weather it’s a great friend’s wedding, a close relative or a recommendation from a couple you’ve captured in the past, there are only a few of reasons to leave my local surrounds and Newcastle light behind, to take on the might of the city.

Jac and Jack’s harbourside wedding was nothing short of amazing, being hosted at the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron in Kirribilli, which included the bride arriving on her fathers classical yacht.

 

I don’t know what I loved more about this wedding day? The photographers dream, really.

The location, the weather and the couples guests were ‘the’ standouts. All coming from far and wide with those weekend ‘relax’, party mode vibes, getting ready for what was soon to become a filled dancefloor of sexy jazz licks and epic cover tracks tracks from the live band, The Juno’s.

Less is more when it comes to bridal prep, allowing stunning wedding vendors like Kiko Designs and The Future Mrs and Kelly Bowman Make Up to excel in what they do best in their departments. Adding to these timeless styles, Jac’s gown ‘Caldera’ by Suzanne Neville from Helen Rodrigues was an art piece within it’s self. A perfect measure of modern classic, with timeless structure, leaving guests in awe when Bride and Dad walked down the garden isle to meet Groom Jack at the arbour.

This was my first wedding working alongside the lovely Chloe from Howse Your Day. Super smiles and relaxed vibes continued during the ceremony with some light hearted back stories as to how these two met. A huge crowd mind you – but nothing these Hunter Valley wedding photographer ninja feet couldn’t dance around – snapping shots of the couple in gorgeous light, whilst having a laugh with guests, and fixing groomsmen’s suits mid ceremony.

With the always important family shots in the bag post ceremony, we trekked down the awaiting ‘Margaret Rintoui VIII‘, our 75 year old sea craft – boasting 44ft in length and comfortably holding me, Nathan from Anchor Cinema and the bridal crew.

 

 

Another perfect wedding afternoon under the Australian sun and another excuse to celebrate the love of two beautiful souls with a Moet champagne pop on deck with a Sydney Harbour skyline as our backdrop.

The night came quickly with speeches from all sides and the drinks were flowing with guests unable to stay seated due to the catchy band tunes in the bar room adjacent. A very proving sign that this evening was about to get even more memorable – the couple opening the dancefloor together with a rehearsed dance piece, that snapped into full party mode!

Let’s not forget the amazing cake by Stacy Brewer Cakes – slotting in perfectly with this bridal aesthetic and a sneaky gown change for our gorgeous bride, allowing for easy dancemoves whilst taking Polaroid’s and sipping cocktails!

A big shout out to the due band ‘The Juno’s’ for their blissful, laid back acoustic tunes throughout the afternoon, and a big thanks to the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron for hosting this great wedding in Kirribilli.

It was massive day in the sun, sneaking through one way backstreets of Neutral Bay and discovering the hidden side of the harbour by water with amazing, fun people. I thrive off the energy on the day to do what I do best, working with amazing vendors but also really enjoying the company of each and everyone I meet on the day. Some amazing wedding memories I know these two will forever remember – and one of the best days of their life.

 

Wedding Vendors

Wedding Venue – Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron

Gown Designer – Suzanne Neville | Helen Rodrigues

Bridesmaid Gown Designer – Bec & Bridge

Shoe Designer – Bared

Groom Suit Designer – P.Johnson

Hair Artist – Jayde Turner Ledgewidge

Make Up Artist – Kelly Bowman

Invitations Design – Designs to Adore

Celebrant – Chloe Howse @ Howse Your Day

Florist – Kiko Designs

Cake Designer – Stacy Brewer Cakes

Music / Entertainment – The Junos

Videographer – Anchored Cinema

A Day of Unforgettable Wedding Love at Adams Peak: Leah & Duncan

A Day of Unforgettable Wedding at Adams Peak Country Estate. 

What an epic journey it was! The stage was set on a Saturday morning, bathed in the gentle embrace of a beautiful sunrise. As the air carried the crisp feel of winter still, we ventured to the enchanting Broke at Adams Peak Country Estate.

         

 

The Prelude: Groomsmen and Country Vibes;

The day began with a vibrant display of brand-new country-style RM Williams boots – a tribute to the groom’s styled country estate spirit, perfectly paired with the lucky sponsorship from Hawkesbury Valley Brewing Co. The main house showcased country tunes with a symphony of laughter and preparation, helping each other look and feel great going into the afternoon.

With a keen sense of timing, we ventured outside to take on some memory making headshots. The moment was also impeccably timed by the presence of Duncan’s mother, lending her skills in the flower department. Ensuring his jacket florals were attached perfectly the creations of Wild Rosie Florals were a stand out on bone coloured suits supplier by Peter Jackson.

The Bridal Canvas: Elegance and Excitement;

Transitioning to the bridal suite, and in addition to saying hello to Paper Fox Designs stylish and always elegant place-card holders at reception,  a realm of elegance unfolded as Leah and her bridesmaids were adorned by the gifted hands of Chic Artistry in the hair and make up department. Champagne flowed as laughter and anticipation built as the afternoon drew closer. Like all weddings, not every goes to plan. However, Duncan and Leah’s children, a testament to their love, added a touch of heartwarming charm to the day’s narrative.

The Heartfelt Celebration;

As 2:30 PM arrived, an intimate celebration was about to kick off. A dear friend of the couple, Marley Stretton stood as the celebrant, sculpting an atmosphere of intimacy and authenticity. Vows were exchanged in this intimate and brief celebration under the warm winter sun. We concluded the event by a confetti toss and large group shot – drinks in hand of course.

 

 

 

A Country Estate Winter Sunset; 

The afternoon country wove its magic, punctuated by popping corks and mini culinary delights by Monkey Place Catering -not to personally mention the beautiful Vegan side dishes the couple ordered for their special guests.  As the sun began its descent we were graced with sights of amazing Highlander cows.  Venturing across the country property and capturing laughter, photo and film showcased the timeless images of this milestone day. Being a hunter valley wedding photographer means we have this amazing backdrop to showcase – and Adams Peak Country Estate never seems to disappoint. 

The Evening’s Symphony;

Enter the funky tunes of the Baker Boy Band to guide the family and guests up to the Barn. Amid heartfelt speeches, the covered outdoor setting emerged as a dance floor adorned with fairy lights and playful spot lights. The Adams Peak team orchestrated flawlessness throughout the evening – and a huge thanks to Anne-Marie for hosting me and gear – making these days flow so well.

A Symphony of Gratitude;

Above all, to the bride, the groom, and the entire Adams Peak crew and the amazing vendors listed below, a heartfelt thank you for entrusting me with the privilege of capturing this chapter. A few photos, a sweet little highlight film and some epic moments elevated the days capture.

In conclusion, as the story unfurls and each chapter develops in this masterpiece, I’m eager to unveil the visual symphony of another grand wedding.  A testament to a day etched in memory and illuminated by love. But above all, one’s wedding day with elements of love and laugher through music and great food should be enough to make any wedding goer happy, right? 

For more upcoming weddings, elopements and pre wedding sessions, be sure to return shortly, or visit our Couples page for more visual love!

 

Wedding Vendors;

Gown Designer – Allure Bridals
Bridesmaid Gown Designer – Tussah
Shoe Designer(s) – RM Williams
Suit Designer – Peter Jackson
Hair Artist – Chic Artistry 
Make Up Artist – Chic Artistry 
Invitations Design – Paper Fox design 
Celebrant – Marli Stretton
Florist – Ali, Wild Rosie
Music / Entertainment – Baker Boy Band
Catering Company – Monkey Place Catering
Wedding Venue – Adam’s Peak

Wallalong House Wedding – The Epic Summer of 1 Love

There’s something magical about Emily and Randall that makes you feel like you’re floating on a cloud ahhhh, they are just the best humans!

And those who are reading this – and know them… are now smiling from ear to ear.

Wallalong House Wedding in the later summer makes for incredible photos that couples will relive forever.

There’s something magical about these two that makes you feel like you’re floating on a cloud…ahhhh, they are just the best humans! And those who are reading this – and know them… are now smiling from ear to ear.We had such an amazing time at their wedding. The weather was perfect, golden light and high vibes at night.

We were shooting in our own backyard – a dream that all Hunter Valley Wedding photographers wish for, and one would say quite easy for us to get creative with our photography by using some of the best natural light locations this are has to offer.

     

Post ceremony – Groom Randall taking the opportunity to mingle with great friends before family photos took place
Wallalong House is one of those venues that has a bit of extra sparkle in its starry appearance. It is magnificent under the night sky, and it was so perfect home base to celebrate this special wedding day with two amazing people. The weather on this warm, spring afternoon just sat perfect between acoustic tunes and cold cocktails, while kids run around the bases of the Morton Bay Fig trees that set out the estate’s garden ceremony location. 

The venue itself has remained the same since the lade 1800’s, with areas of it and the gardens been converted from an old Victorian estate, to a more modern styled, luxury home – pool included.

 

I had been waiting for this weekend since I captured the engagement photography (which was also the most fun!) out at Walka Works Wedding venue in Oakhampton, NSW.

It was a true celebration with me feeling like I hit the jackpot as I made some new photography friends, great drinks and awesome acoustic tunes. The ceremony led by the gorgeous Julie Muir, had all the laughs thanks to her Irish ways, as well as the important parts of this couples dating adventures. To top it off – it included a surprise witnessing choosing for the signing of legal paper work, giving the punters an opportunity to present on the main stage!

     

 

I had been waiting for this weekend since I captured the engagement photography (which was also the most fun!) out at Walka Works Wedding venue in Oakhampton, NSW.

It was a true celebration with me feeling like I hit the jackpot as I made some new photography friends, great drinks and awesome acoustic tunes. The ceremony led by the gorgeous Julie Muir, had all the laughs thanks to her Irish ways, as well as the important parts of this couples dating adventures. To top it off – it included a surprise witnessing choosing for the signing of legal paper work, giving the punters an opportunity to present on the main stage!

 

 

Wedding Vendors & Details

Gown Designer – Atelier Rose

Bridesmaid Gown Designer – Bec and Bridge

Shoe Designer(s) – Jo Mercer

Suit Designer – Peter Jackson

Hair Artist – Chic Artistry

Make Up Artist – Chic Artistry

Invitations Design – Creative birds designs

Celebrant – Julie Muir

Florist – Botanica Bird

Cake Designer – Honey-Belle Cakery

Gelato- Goaty Gelato

Catering Company – Fennel and Co

Videographer – Bonnie- Bonnielassfilms

Transport Company – Grace Coaches

Walk-down-Aisle Song – Beyond – Leon Bridges

1st Dance Song – This too shall last – Anderson East

The Woodhouse Wollombi Wedding: Amanda & Jimmy

Spring Wedding Love with a country couple.

I have to admit – living in the Hunter Valley is pretty special. And being able to attend, capture and relive these days, is just something else. Enter another amazing wedding out at The Woodhouse with another gorgeous couple – Amanda and Jimmy – two loved up souls with a gorgeous mix of elegance and country rolled into one.

And when choosing a venue like this – you really can’t go wrong.

From the getting ready in the morning with their onsite accomodation, to an expansive open air playground to wander just before sunset – it really has it all. A venue I love to work at, and one that continues to prove to us all that it can handle any conditions, and at any time of the year.

I loved photographing this day for Amanda and Jimmy, especially around sunset (my favourite…) with time dedicated for photos in the day’s run. The couples unique country style was also added into the day, with Jimmy and the boys proudly showing off their wide brimmed cowboy hats and 4 wheeled drive trucks, and Amanda matching this with her custom silver Wittner boots.

The couple decided on the always eventful and always leaping Peter Bray as the events celebrant, some classy tunes by Uptown the Band and never failing tastes from the amazing Fennel and Co. And how could we forget the awesome and highly recommended hair and make up team Chic Artistry who made Amanda and her girls not only look amazing, but feel incredible pre wedding.

 

 

Making the time to capture the reception at the Woodhouse is always a must – before jackets go on the back of the chair, and to see the design in it’s award winning space. Fennel and Co. had also created an amazing grazing table for both the guests of the wedding, as well as bites for the newlyweds and their bridal party. Great to also bump into Uptown the Band.

 

Congratulations to Amanda and Jimmy – what an amazing day.

All Photography by Gez Xavier Mansfield Photography, 

Wedding Vendors

Gown Designer – Tying The Knot Bridal Boutique 

Jewellery 

Amanda and Jimmy’s wedding rings: Camelot Jewellers 

Amanda’s earrings: Linneys Pearls 

Amanda’s engagement ring – Diamond Traders Sydney 

Bridesmaid Gown Designer – Shona Joy 

Shoe Designer(s) -Wittner (something ‘old’!) Jimmy – Custom RM Williams 

Suit Designer – Politix, Groomsman suit Designer – Politix 

Hair Artist – Chic Artistry 

Make Up Artist – Chic Artistry 

Invitations Design – Minted 

Celebrant – Peter Bray 

Florist – Little Wren 

Cake Designer – Mandy Made Cakes 

Music / Entertainment – Uptown the Band, Trio 

Catering – Fennel & Co 

Videographer – Anchored Cinema 

Transport Company – Grace Coaches

Walk-down-Aisle Song – The Beatles – Here comes the Sun

1st Dance Song – Jon Pardi – Head Over Boots

 

The Most Amazing Hunter Valley Wedding & Elopement Venues 2023

The Best of the Best Wedding Venues for 2023

With over 10 years of Wedding Photography in the Hunter Valley, Gez Xavier Mansfield Photography gives his insights to which venues are his ‘pick of the bunch’ – and why Winter Weddings are fast becoming a 2023 bridal trend!

Enzo

Run by a team with over 25+ years of bridal experience and centrally located in the heart of the Hunter Valley, Enzo is a very popular wedding venue for all types of couples throughout all seasons of the year. A constant standout wedding venue known for their attention to detail, amazing tasting food and gorgeous surrounds for couples looking to impress their guests while at the same time can enjoy being in the moment.
The Chapel would be the most popular spot to get married in at this venue, but I’ve been lucky enough to also capture some smaller weddings out on the lawns in early Spring. If you’re also looking for on-site accomdation for your family and guests, this venue has it all from a brial estate home, to seperate cabins, and to their new addition, Enzo Cottage – just a stones throw from the venue.

This venue continues to delivery amazing results, ticking so many boxes that couples are looking for. Highly recommended.

Bimbadgen, Palmers Lane

Hands down, Bimbadgen Palmers Lane has some of the best open spaces for that dreamy sunset, wedding photo session. I’m speaking from experience. If you book this venue, expect to walk in fields of gold at the end of your day with as the sun kisses the top of the Broke Mountain range in the distance. Another up to date modern wedding venue that can utilise both it’s indoor and outdoor wedding facilities, allowing couples to relax when the weather isn’t on it’s best behaviour.
Multiple locations also in choosing where to get married is the hardest thing about Palmers Lane – but that’s a good thing! Choose from the Lakeside to the Back Paddock, the new undercover gazebo or their most popular site, the Top Morton Bay Fig Field.
If you love golden sunsets, festoon lit dinners and big, late night dance floor sessions… def check these guys out.
Oh, and their wine is pretty special too.

Wallalong House

Estate weddings, eat your heart out. Being a frequent visitor here over the years has allowed me to see this beauty in all different types of light – and I still can’t fault it. If you love the idea of a private, grand old home, epic views, lawn games, summer fun and that luxury open aired teepee feel… bingo! You’ve nailed it here. 
Wallalong House is a super chilled player in the Hunter Valley wedding scene.  Within 5 mins of pulling up, you’ll be surrounded by manicured lawns, fresh air and giant federation styled features that make amazing backdrops for wedding parties no matter what size. To top this off, their reception teepee is shear class, offering many different configurations as to how you want your wedding evening to play out. 
Don’t be fooled. This mighty tent has chalked up some of the raddest parties I’ve seen so far. Hot tip – if you’re looking to book here in winter, make sure you have a stoked bar and a knitted throw for Granny. Come to think of it, maybe that’s the key to a lit dancefloor?

Cabins in the Clouds

Just as their name suggust – this amazing venue needs to be lived to be experienced. Elopement couples – get ready to kick back with a bottle of bubbles while over looking the Vacy Valley from your very on spa bath at this stunning hidden gem, tucked far far up above the world below. A privately owned and run resort that puts their couples first in a very relaxed setting. And small, intimate elopements are their speciality. Cabins in the Clouds also has a highly respected team of wedding creatives ready to look after beautiful couples with onsite hair and make up, florals, celebrant, photographer and joint videography too name just a few. 
By taking the morning to get ready in seperate (or the same cabin…) come ceremony you’ll be overlooking the Valley below with you selected guests – the perfect start to your new adventure together!
The property also offers organic, natural bush settings too, with tons of wild to see while your photographer takes you both to some magical quiet spots to let your wedding all sink in. And if you’re adventure loving foodies… why not get picked up at their Heli pad for a site seeing trip over the Hunter Valley to your favourite restaurant. Hot tip – we suggest Bistro Molines.

Tocal Homstead 

Country styled weddings with acres of space to roam. Many couples (and their guests) pinch themselves when arriving through the gates to this epic wedding location. With the options of the Homestead Garden or the Barn for choice in placing your arbour, Tocal Homestead weddings really offer up many opportunities for amazing photos on the day. And to top it off, their reception barn creates a comfy, warm, dreamy space for guests to mingle and share memories. A standout of this venue is the exclusive access to the back paddocks and dams not visible from the Homestead. That perfect mix of old relic buildings and county light make this venue another super stand out wedding spot for 2023. Lastly, if you love horses – be sure to look out for their gorgeous, barrel-chested Clydesdales roaming the fields.

This is just a few venues I’m so lucky to work at here in the Hunter Valley, and if you manage to visit them you’ll see why. It’s always great to visit the venue at the time of the year you’re both looking to get married, giving you a great idea on how these venues best meet their couples. Bring on 2023

2024 Wedding Dates are Now Open. Bookings limited.

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Get in Touch

info@gezxaviermansfieldphotography.com

0433 144 549

2024 Wedding Dates are Now Open.
Bookings limited.

Secure Your Place