High school sweethearts. It’s actually not that common when I shoot weddings but there’s something extra special about being a part of a journey that was started so long ago. Kristen and Hugh went to school together in Echuca where they grew up. I first met them at Kristen’s sister’s wedding which I shot a few years ago and then I also photographed another wedding in which she was a bridesmaid. I love seeing familiar faces at the wedding I photograph and I always feel extra welcome.
Kristen looked stunning in her Marianna Hardwick dress topped off with a vintage necklace which belonged to her grandmother who is no longer with us but who was definately there in spirit on their special day. Kristen had her grandfather sign the official documents as a witness to their marriage.
It was a very warm day in Echuca for their wedding- 36 degrees actually! The ceremony was held at gorgeous Morrison’s Winery and the bride surprised everyone- including the groom- by arriving by helicopter. What an entrance! After the ceremony the bridal party travelled on the family’s boat along the Murray River to the Port of Echuca where did some photographs whilst the guests were treated to a Paddlesteamer ride. The reception was held at the beautiful Oscar W’s. An amazing venue right on the Murray and interiors made up of rustic touches, redgum timber and corrugated iron. The room simply looked stunning. It was a beautiful day and I wish Hugh and Kristen all the happiness in the world.
BTW- I would like to make a very special thankyou. As I said- it was a very warm day and when I photographed this wedding I was just over 12 weeks pregnant. I did all the right things with food, drink and sun protection on the day however felt a little worse for wear after the ceremony concluded and we were starting the family photos. I nearly fainted. This- I must say- is photographer’s worst nightmare. I was scared for the baby but also scared for the fact that I might not be able to shoot the rest of the wedding which would be devastating. In stepped Hugh’s lovely brother-in-law Neil who just happened to be a doctor. He along with bridesmaid and midwife Breanna took great care of me and around 15 mins later I felt well enough to continue. He explained that at that stage of pregnancy the baby is needing more blood and it takes it from my blood circulation so even if I was sitting at home in the air conditioned comfort I might still be feeling a little unwell that day- let alone running around working in 36 deg heat. I was so pleased that everything was alright in the end and I have been very well ever since. It was a scary time though and I am very grateful to Neil and Breanna for supporting me. Thanks to my bride Kristen for not completely freaking out and also all of the guests for their patience and concern for my welfare. Also a big thanks to my assistant that day Zowie Crump who carried my bags and fed me water and jelly babies all day long. You’re a legend.
Anyway- on to the pics- I hope you enjoy living the story of their beautiful day.
Enjoy!
Elise xo
Stunning dress. Stunning photos!
Stunning, simply stunning Elise. Glad to hear you are OK.