Real Wedding: Bree & Ben’s Romantic Coastal Celebration
Chilled vibes at Litte Beach
Classic chilled vibes, heartfelt vows, and a packed dance floor at Little Beach Boathouse!
Photography by Hunter Valley Wedding Photographer – Gez Xavier Mansfield
Some love stories are written in the stars, others begin in high school. Bree & Ben’s is the latter — best friends turned soulmates, tied together by years of connection and a perfectly timed spark. Their elegant coastal wedding at the Little Beach Boathouse in Nelson Bay was a stunning mix of heartfelt romance, timeless styling, and dance floor chaos (the best kind).
As a Hunter Valley wedding photographer, it’s days like these that remind me why I love what I do. From emotional vows to grease-stained veils and champagne-fuelled dance moves, Bree & Ben’s day had everything — and then some.
The Love Story
Bree and Ben first met in high school, and their friendship followed them into adulthood. After a move to Mackay, life threw them back together under the same roof. A year later, Ben planned to move back home — but love had other ideas. They got together, and he never left.
The Proposal
Forget grand gestures. Ben proposed during a walk back to their hotel in Sydney, the night before their flight to Europe. He couldn’t risk packing the ring, so he popped the question before they even got on the plane. Sometimes simple is perfect.
Why They Chose the Hunter Region
Although based in Queensland, their hearts were still in NSW. With family and friends scattered across the Hunter, and memories made at the Little Beach Boathouse, choosing this stunning coastal venue was a no-brainer.
“We had been there a few times and loved it. It just made sense to get married down south!”
A Classic, Romantic Wedding Vibe
Think: black bridesmaid dresses, mood lighting, white florals, and endless candles. Bree & Ben wanted something timeless — elegant but understated — and it came together beautifully thanks to a standout team of Hunter Valley wedding vendors.
“We didn’t stress about the little details. We just wanted great food, great drinks, and a good time.”
Morning Jitters & First Looks
Despite not being “nervous people,” both Bree and Ben felt the pressure on the morning of the wedding. But a relaxed first look before the ceremony helped ease those pre-wedding nerves and allowed them to enjoy a moment of calm, just the two of them.
“Seeing Ben just made me feel at ease straight away.”
Favourite Ceremony Moment
Ben, not one to cry, teared up when Bree walked down the aisle. For Bree, it was Ben’s vows — heartfelt and nervous, but absolutely perfect.
“It was the only moment I didn’t feel nervous during the ceremony.”
Reception Highlights
Once the formalities were out of the way, it was all about the party. From the killer playlist (hello Shut Up and Dance and Pink Pony Club) to the speeches and champagne, the vibe was electric.
“The dance floor went off!”
Wedding Day Challenges
There was one curveball — the weather. A looming cyclone from Brisbane meant a rainy wedding day was likely. But with a mindset shift and a wet-weather backup plan, Bree & Ben took it in stride.
“It was out of our control, so we just rolled with it. And it still turned out perfect.”
Vendor Dream Team
These legends brought the day to life:
Celebrant: Sarah Chippindale – “Honestly the best!”
Florals & Styling: A Beautiful Occasion – “Nailed my vision completely.”
Makeup: Tanya from Chic Artistry – “Made us look stunning!”
DJ: Carson from Silent Shout – “Nailed the tunes.”
Venue & Catering: Little Beach Boathouse – “The food and service were next level.”
Their Take on Working With Me…
“We loved Gez! He made us feel so comfortable. We both hate photos but it didn’t last long — couldn’t recommend him more!”
That’s what I’m here for — making sure the camera never feels like a burden, and capturing moments that feel real and natural.
Favourite Details
From the candle-lit ceremony setup to the sunset portraits post-speeches, it was the balance of party and intimacy that made it unforgettable.
“It was so nice to be alone just us for a bit. That sunset photo moment was perfect.”
Advice for Future Couples Planning a Hunter Valley Wedding
Do a first look – “It calmed us down and meant we could stay with our guests after the ceremony.”
Let go of nerves – “I wish I enjoyed the morning more instead of freaking out!”
Don’t sweat the weather – “You can’t control it. Just embrace it and pivot.”
One Part They’d Relive?
Ben: “The whole reception. No nerves, just fun.”
Bree: “That little moment just the two of us during sunset photos.”
Final Thoughts
Bree & Ben’s wedding was the kind of day that just felt good — honest, romantic, fun, and full of soul. If you’re dreaming of a relaxed, timeless celebration with coastal views, killer tunes, and photos that tell the story of you, this is the inspiration you’ve been looking for.
Planning a Hunter Valley or Newcastle wedding?
Let’s create something unforgettable.
📸 See more real weddings | Get in touch with Gez
