It’s not very often we have the opportunity to shoot down in Wollongong so when Chantal and Nic asked us to capture their wedding at Tumbling Waters Retreat, Wollongong, we could not resist. Not only because the South Coast is spectacular but also because we had never been to Tumbling Waters Retreat, Wollongong before so it was super exciting to be heading to a new location as well. Double excitement. Leading up to the big day at Tumbling Waters Retreat, Wollongong we were on constant rain check. And it just so happened the week of Chantal and Nic’s wedding at Tumbling Waters Retreat, Wollongong was looking clear and full of sunshine, except for one day, which happened to be their wedding day! Regardless, rain, hail or shine we knew that it would be an amazing day at Tumbling Waters Retreat, Wollongong. The day arrived and we woke up to overcast skies. Not wanting to get our hopes up high, we still prepared ourselves for some wet weather at Tumbling Waters Retreat, Wollongong. As we were making our way down the Coast towards Tumbling Waters Retreat, Wollongong we noticed the skies start to open up and the sun appear. So exciting considering most of our weddings this year have showered and surely enough we knew our bride and groom would be relieved too.
We started our day off at Headlands Hotel Austinmer Beach where Nic, his two sons and parents were spending a cruisey morning getting themselves ready for the day ahead at Tumbling Waters Retreat, Wollongong. After a few family portraits and a little stroll out by the ocean, we made our way over to Tumbling Waters Retreat, Wollongong where the girls were getting ready. Having already cracked open a bottle of sparkling, the girls were a little nervous but otherwise happy and excited, particularly because no wet weather plans needed to be discussed! Spoilt with gorgeous ocean views from the luxury accommodation at Tumbling Waters Retreat, Wollongong, we took some portraits and candids before it was time to slip into Chantal’s simple yet elegant gown. And before we knew it, we could see guests begin to arrive so we knew it was time to get ourselves prepared for the ceremony at Tumbling Waters Retreat, Wollongong. Usually ceremonies take place on the grass area at Tumbling Waters Retreat, Wollongong however due to all the rain, the grass was still damp and muddy so it was decided that the ceremony would take place on the deck overlooking to ocean – no complaints from us. With guests spread out on the hill (offering perfect viewing for guests) and Chantal and Nic exchanging vows in front of the most gorgeous floral arbour, the bride and groom said their I do’s amongst their dearest family and friends. Not long following, it was time for some bride and groom photos. Luckily with such gorgeous grounds, we didn’t need to venture far from Tumbling Waters Retreat, Wollongong. We didn’t have long until the sun was fully set so we took a few shots around the gardens and in the bushland just outside Tumbling Waters Retreat, Wollongong. We got what we needed within our 30minute time frame before it went completely dark and then it was time to rejoin the guests as they were finishing up canapes at Tumbling Waters Retreat, Wollongong. Heart-warming, funny and short speeches were following by a delicious 3 course meal as well as cake. And once formalities were complete, it was time to let loose on the dance floor. To finish up a specular day at Tumbling Waters Retreat, Wollongong, Chantal and Nic were (fake) farewelled by guests through a tunnel of sparklers but then still snuck in a few more songs on the dance floor with champagne still flowing freely much to everyone’s joy – it didn’t look like anyone wanted the night to end! Thanks again for having us Chantal and Nic, such a beautiful day and an even more beautiful couple and we so thrilled we were there to be a part of it.
Location: Tumbling Waters Retreat
Celebrant: Merinda Richardson
Dress: Grace Loves Lace
Hair: Hair By Mikaelah
Makeup: Hayley Mciver
Stylist: Fresh Creative Styling
Flowers: Fresh Creative Styling