Some weddings just feel like home from the very beginning.
Laura and Edward’s day at Pietro Gallus Estate was exactly that: Warm, welcoming, and full of intention.
The kind of celebration where nothing felt forced, and every moment felt like a true reflection of who they are.
From the way they met, to the way they planned their day, everything about this wedding was grounded in connection, ease, and creating a space where their people could simply come together and celebrate.
How Laura & Edward Met
Laura and Edward’s story started in a way that feels equal parts nostalgic and unexpected.
“We met working together in our early 20s. We worked at an indoor trampoline park where Ed coached trampolining and I hosted kids birthday parties.”
It’s the kind of beginning that feels lighthearted and fun, and somehow perfectly fitting for the energy they brought into their wedding day.
Their proposal was just as personal.
“We booked a farm stay in Gippsland for our 6 year anniversary. Before a winery dinner Ed surprised me with a gift, which was of course, a ring!”
And in true Laura and Ed fashion, they kept it just between the two of them for a little while.
“He hadn’t told a soul what he was doing, so after he proposed it was our little secret before we shared the news to our closest family and friends.”
Why They Chose Pietro Gallus Estate
If you’ve ever visited Pietro Gallus Estate, you’ll understand exactly what Laura means when she says this:
“We always envisioned a winery wedding and loved that Pietro Gallus Estate made you feel like you had been transported far away to Tuscany.”
That feeling is hard to replicate, but this venue does it effortlessly.
The views over the olive grove, the warmth of the space, and the story behind the estate all come together in a way that feels incredibly personal.
“The wine they make is incredible and the story behind the venue really resonated with us: Two people in love combining their passions into one place.”
And most importantly:
“The venue made us feel at home as soon as we first arrived!”
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Getting Ready at The Yarra Valley Lodge
Both Laura and Edward started the day at their accommodation nearby in Wonga Park, the Yarra Valley Lodge located at the iconic Heritage Golf and Country Club.
We had carefully planned their wedding day timeline together to make sure the day never felt rushed.
For Ed and the groomsmen we allowed up to an hour to take photos of them getting ready. This allowed time for them to put on their suits, tie their bowties and attach the flower pins, but also to make Whiskey Sours and enjoy a drink.
Laura and Ed had written each other letters to read whilst they were getting ready, so we also captured this moment which made Edward slightly more nervous but brought a tear to Laura’s eye.
For our beautiful bride Laura, we had an hour and a half to capture the last of her make up application, her beautiful jewellery/flowers/wedding stationary as well as take some fun photos in the hotel elevator and garden with her bridal party of 3. And of course, popping a bottle of Moet!
We finished the morning off with a first look with Laura’s bridal party and some group photos with her parents before everyone headed to Pietro Gallus Estate in the limo.
Seeing Each Other for the First Time
When I asked Laura about the most memorable part of the day, her answer was immediate.
“Seeing each other for the first time! That moment will always be one of the most special moments of the day!”
Laura & Ed kept things traditional and saw each other for the first time as Laura walked down the aisle. I remember Edward was so nervous and despite Laura thinking he wouldn’t shed a tear, he most certainly did!
And then later, when reflecting on what she would relive Laura said:
“Seeing each other for the first time! It felt so special and finally coming together was so comforting, to hold each others’ hands and support one another was a feeling like no other.”
Those moments are always my favourite to photograph.
There’s nothing staged about them.
Just two people, fully present, stepping into the next chapter together.
A Warm and Welcoming Wedding Style
From the beginning, Laura and Edward were clear on how they wanted their wedding to feel.
“We always wanted an intimate and welcoming vibe.”
And every decision flowed from that.
“We wanted everyone to feel like they were invited over to our place for a party. Welcoming, cosy and full of love.”
Laura & Ed had the most stunning floral display for their ceremony, so much so that I did a double take when I walked into the La Terrazza space!
Crafted by the ever-so-talented Birde Floral Design, their florals were sculptural and had a deep red cloth backdrop behind, whilst some of the florals sat on top of a ruched satin draping, of course, in a deep burgundy colour.
Laura says:
“We chose warm and complimentary colours of burgundy and deep red, green and white to suit the vibe of the winery.”
One of my favourite details from the day was their cake alternative.
“We included a tiramisu tower as our cake, as this is our absolute favourite treat!”
It felt so personal, and honestly, it was truly a hit with the guests.
on 35mm film
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The Ceremony at Pietro Gallus Estate
Laura and Edward’s ceremony was led by Kate Adkins, and it was clear just how much that relationship meant to them.
“Well we wouldn’t be Mr & Mrs without our incredible celebrant Kate Adkins! Her support and kindness during the whole process made the day and the lead up feel so special!”
It was heartfelt, relaxed, and full of those little moments that make a ceremony feel truly personal.
Wedding Photos That Feel Like Them
When Laura spoke about their photos, there was one line that really stood out to me.
“We’ve never experienced anything like this. Seeing ourselves so comfortable and truly being our authentic selves is so special.”
That’s always the goal.
Creating space for couples to just be, rather than feeling like they have to perform.
Couples often comment on how my photos just appear so natural and true to them (just read some past blogs!) and I think it just makes such a difference to the final outcome when you feel comfortable and connected with your photographer.
The couple also wanted a documentary approach to capture the happening moments of the day, and Laura commented:
“It was also incredibly meaningful to see how others saw us on the day, these photos show the whole experience and makes it feel even more special.”
And those in-between moments?
“Seeing the photos where it is just us being happy, in love and full present are so beautiful to relive.
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A Cocktail-Style Reception at Pietro Gallus Estate
Good food, great music, and a packed dancefloor
From the start, Laura and Edward had three priorities.
“Great food and drinks, music that had everyone on the dance floor, and a beautiful landscape surrounding us.”
And they absolutely delivered on all three.
The atmosphere shifted seamlessly into celebration mode as guests settled in, shared food, and filled the space with laughter.
When it came time for the dancefloor, there was no holding back.
The song that got EVERYONE on the dancefloor? “I was made for loving you – KISS”
Their signature drink also brought a little extra fun to the night: a Limoncello Margarita.
One thing to note about Pietro Gallus Estate is that they specialise in Italian liqueurs and their Limoncello and Grappa are award winning. In addition to their wine, they also have a cocktail menu which is anything from generic and you can opt to serve a signature cocktail or two at your wedding.
Laura’s Advice for Couples Planning Their Wedding
If you’re in the middle of planning your own wedding, Laura’s advice is one to come back to.
“Whatever decision you make is the right one. If things don’t go to plan, its okay because everyone is happy just to celebrate your love regardless of anything else.”
And when I asked if she would change anything?
“Absolutely not! It was the best day of our lives”
Vendor Team
Photographer: Emma Hawkins PhotographyVenue: Pietro Gallus Estate
Celebrant: Kate Adkins
Florist: Birde Floral Design
Cake Maker: Siora Tiramisu
Dress Designer: Mwl Bridal
Stationery: Paperlust
Signage: Rebel Reflect
Suit Designer: The Suit Concierge
Engagement Ring: Cullen Jewellery
Gear and Wedding Day Details
- Digital Camera & Lenses: Sony A7RIV & Sony A7RIII, 35mm G Master, 24-70 mm G Master (Sony lenses), 85mm Art (Sigma) & 20mm Sigma (for wide dancefloor shots!)
- Film cameras & Lenses: Olympus OM2 & G. Zuiko 50mm f1.4, Minolta Riva Zoom 115
- Film stock: Fuji 400, Mr Negative Same Same But Different
- Flash: Godox V860III, Godox AD100Pro, Godox iT32/X5 mini flash
- Coverage: 8 hours, one photographer (me!)
Planning a Wedding at Pietro Gallus Estate? I’d Love to Photograph It.
Let’s bring your Italian wedding dreams to life in the Yarra Valley.
Whether it’s editorial portraits by the brass bar or golden hour out amongst the olive grove, I’m here to capture your love story the way it felt.
Ready to explore dates or see sample timelines?
Ready to explore dates or see sample timelines?
Click here to get in touch or let’s book a time to chat.
With love,
Emma x
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