Chantel & Jake | Coriole Winery
After photographing Chantel and Jake’s wedding in McLaren Vale, about an hour south of Adelaide, I found myself asking the question: “Is a wedding ever actually complete without a NERF gun war?” The short answer is – no, not really!
The day was HOT. It was the delightful sort of Adelaide heat that makes you whimper in fear as you step outside your front door. Despite the outrageous heat, I had the most amazing day with Chantel, Jake and their bridal party. There was not a moment when the 43-degree summer heat had any effect on their capacity to laugh, enjoy time with their guests or truly celebrate the joy and elation of being married.
The day started with the aforementioned war zone at a bed and breakfast in Aldinga Beach, followed by the girls getting ready at another accommodation in McLaren Vale. Aside from the NERF fest and their ability to ignore the heat, one of the other things I adored about their wedding was the unique way they paid tribute to their parents and grandparents during the ceremony at a cute little McLaren Vale church. Parents and siblings shared the honour of walking their grandparents down the aisle, to greet Jake, before hanging personalised name ornaments on a “family tree”. This all took place before Chantel walked down the aisle. It was an absolutely beautiful sentimental touch. I still get teary when I remember!
After the ceremony, we took a drive around the southern Vales and dropped by Kuitpo Forest (which, incidentally, felt like a greenhouse that day!), then Port Willunga beach. Our final stop for the day was of course the reception venue – Coriole Vineyards. By this stage, some stunning storm clouds began rolling in to mark the gradual decline of the heat and the beginning of a cool(er) change. Chantel and Jake’s guests enjoyed a relaxed cocktail-style reception on the lawn and under the trees at Coriole, with live music and lots of amazing food.
Chantel and Jake, it was an absolute pleasure to be a part of your day and to remember all the little details which made your day so special. Thank you again!
