Rachel & Jason’s Olive Grove Wedding – A Coastal Celebration at Forresters Beach
I’d met this lovely bride previously and was thrilled when she booked me to capture her day!
There’s something special about stories that start with a simple coffee date. For Rachel and Jason, that first meeting was the beginning of something pretty wonderful.
They met online as so many modern love stories do and arranged to meet for coffee before Rachel’s work shift. Jason rolled up on his Harley, what a cool cat! He ordered a flat white (which, as it turns out, isn’t even his usual coffee). Later he admitted that he always ordered a flat white on a first date, just in case he had to drink fast and make a quick exit. But this time? He ended up having two… and Rachel was late for work. I’d call that a good sign!
A Beautiful Lunchtime Ceremony at The Olive Grove
Fast forward to their lunchtime ceremony at The Olive Grove, Forresters Beach, officiated by the always delightful Bec Page. The Olive Grove is such a stunning venue . I actually photographed two weddings there back-to-back, and it’s easy to see why. Coastal-inspired, surrounded by greenery, and filled with quiet little corners with dark walls, it’s a great location for any Olive Grove Wedding Photographer.
The ceremony was full of warmth and personality. Rachel’s son Taylor played the cello as his mum walked down the aisle, and the look they gave each other was the sweetest. Her other son Ethan took on the role of MC later in the day and did such a great job, confident, funny, and full of love for his mum and Jason, as were all their kids.
Fun, Laughter and a Creative Reception
The afternoon continued with laughter, good food, and a reception that had a fun twist, guests could scan a barcode to upload their photos throughout the day, which were displayed live on the big screen. It made for plenty of laughter and such a great idea for any wedding. Nick Read our talented musician and Dj for the day was in his element, zooming in a little too close and uploading them for a laugh. Us vendors like to get amongst the fun too!
When it came time for speeches, both families spoke with such heartfelt words and not only about the love between Rachel and Jason, but about the beautiful way their families had come together. Stories were shared, a few happy tears were shed, and there was this overwhelming sense of connection and gratitude. It felt like two families joining, and Rachel and Jason’s children were so supportive and so happy to see their parent so happy.
From start to finish, the day was filled with warmth, laughter, and a bride and groom that smiled from ear to ear all day long. It was an honour to capture it all.
Vendors:
Venue: The Olive Grove
Celebrant: The Love Page Celebrant (Bec Page)
Hair: Divine Hair & Makup
Singer/Dj: Nick Read Entertainment
Cake: With Love and Sugar
Dress: Bells and Beaux
Florals: Flowerland



















follow me on instagram @jodiereardonphotography