Ryan and Erin were married at this wonderful venue, one I haven’t photographed at before. I love shooting at places I’ve never been—it keeps me on my toes. I’m able to explore new surroundings and, as always, use that winter light to my best advantage.

When I arrived at Piggs Peake in the Hunter Valley, I immediately felt that calming country vibe, the smell of woodfires burning and even better, the smell of slow cooking brisket! Ryan is a massive foodie with his thousands of Instagram followers @onehungryhuman where he documents food and travels. After eating at Piggs Peake I can see why this foodie chose this incredible winery. The flavours – delicious! Oh and not only that, I hear the wines are amazing! As a beer girl – I’ll take their word for it! 

Our groom Ryan, is definitely no fan of the camera and like many guys, if they had their way, may not have had a photographer. I get it – you don’t want to feel like you spent the day in front of the camera and I don’t want you to feel like that either. I learned early on that it was going to be lots of candid’s as requested and how I love to shoot a wedding anyway. Some family pics, a couple with Mum Sue and I left Ryan to greet his guests. 

As always, I’m super early so I can look around and check out the reception while grabbing some photos of the room all lit up – the candles and styling completely transforming what I assume is a fairly empty room when it’s being used to make wine. Rochelle from Piggs Peake walked me through and showed me around. Thanks Rochelle and the team for your hospitality!

As guests started to arrive, bright and bubbly celebrant Erica got Ryan and the boys ready in front of that vibrant arbour. The florals and styling at this wedding – incredible! Erin and the girls and Dad Trevor arrived in style thanks to Foreshore Kombi Hire – I love Kombi’s, they look fantastic in pastel colours, they are such a cute van and look great in the photos. What I noticed upon meeting this stunning bride Erin was her sweet and happy persona and a smile that never left her face the whole day. She’s so much fun, and I had just as much fun photographing her. She looked so beautiful and her dress – she rocked it. 

Walking Down the Aisle with Dad

I could see they were having a few laughs and as she headed towards Ryan she was welcomed by family and friends. Her cousin Jade, a talented country music artist was there to sing her down the aisle. Jade also went on to MC and to sing for the father daughter dance and Ryan and Erin’s first dance. As Erin walked down, I could see the guests do this arms in the air hand flapping business and they all made the same sound. This happened a few times throughout the day and I could see it was a family joke. Of course I had to ask Mum Robyn later that night what the deal with the hand flapping was haha. What a fun family! 

Erica delivered a heartfelt yet lighthearted ceremony, making our couple feel at ease, to have a few laughs and we got to hear about the story of Ryan and Erin. As they sealed the deal with a kiss, signed those important papers, they walked down the aisle, smiling from ear to ear to the sounds of Jackon Broadway Music, who had everyone out of their chairs when it was time to hit the dance floor later that evening. 

Thank you Ryan and Erin for having me a part of your lovely wedding day, and thank you to your lovely bridal party for having fun during our photo time. 

Jodie. 

Enjoy this little sneak peak. 

These images don’t exist without the help of these wonderful vendors:

Venue: Piggs Peake Winery

Celebrant: Erica Janssen Celebrant

Hair and Makeup: Chic Artistry

Florals: Worn out Wares – Wow Flowers

Styling – Isn’t it Lovely Events

Erin’s Dress: Grace Loves Lace

Music: Jade Holland Music and Jackson Broadway Music

Cake: Caked by Beck

Transport: Foreshore Kombi Hire