A Dream Wedding at Yellingbo Art House Private Estate, Yarra Valley
There’s something undeniably special about documenting a wedding at someone’s family home—especially when that home is as breathtaking and full of soul as Jesse’s.
Jesse and Jay were married on her family’s private property in the heart of the Yarra Valley winery wedding region, a place that doubles as the Yellingbo Art House. Every inch of the venue felt personal and lived-in, a creative haven nestled amongst wild gardens, curated sculptures, and warm weathered stone. And while the setting was spectacular, it was the energy of the day—easygoing, filled with laughter and no-rush moments—that made this wedding such a joy to photograph.
Getting Ready: Laughter, Champagne, and Aisle Rehearsals
Jesse got ready in the warmth of her childhood home, surrounded by her bridesmaids, reminiscent of an intimate home engagement session and the kind of easy laughter that only comes from years of friendship. Between sips of champagne and final touches of makeup, they playfully practiced their aisle walk—laughing, stumbling, and perfecting their timing like it was a rehearsal for joy itself.
A Ceremony Grown with Love
The ceremony was held beneath a wisteria arch lovingly grown by Jesse’s father specifically for this day. And yes, it was as poetic as it sounds. The vines cascaded above them in full bloom, filtering light just so, and creating this cinematic, almost dreamlike altar where they promised forever.
No wedding stylist could have created something this heartfelt. It was homegrown, in the truest sense.
And as they sealed their vows, Jesse and Jay released a pair of white doves—a gentle nod to unity, love, and peace. Traditionally, releasing doves at a wedding symbolizes the journey of two souls bonded for life, flying together in freedom and harmony. Just like these two.
The Freedom of a Relaxed Yarra Valley Wedding
One of the most beautiful parts of this day? There was no pressure. No venue turnaround times. No rigid timeline breathing down anyone’s neck. Just soft sunlight, chilled champagne, and the hum of laughter from every corner of the garden.
This countryside celebration gave space for those natural, unscripted moments I live for as a photographe—family cuddles, stolen kisses, and spontaneous bursts of joy between friends sprawled on the grass with espresso martinis in hand. Every moment unfolded gently, without force.
Their Golden Doodle & Golden Hour
Of course, the real star of the show? Their golden doodle puppy, grinning through group portraits and stealing nibbles from the grazing table. He had his moment in front of the lens—and rightly so. His energy mirrored theirs: playful, affectionate, and completely at home.
As golden hour hit, I snuck Jesse and Jay away from the music and chatter. We wandered into quieter corners of the property—just the two of them—and captured those sacred, just-married moments that feel like exhaling after the “I dos.” No posing. Just presence.
A Sparkling Send Off and an Irish Goodbye
Not ones for the limelight, Jesse and Jay shared one last slow dance under the canopy of festoon lights, then slipped away just before 10pm with the sweetest Irish goodbye—leaving their guests to party on well into the night.
But before they vanished, we capped the evening with a sparkler send-off—a soft, glittering farewell that felt both celebratory and cinematic. A flicker of firelight, a few tears, a thousand grins. The perfect close.
