Deborah & Josh: A Soulful Celebration at Cadella Park
A Legacy of Trust
As a Melbourne wedding photographer, I felt so privileged that Deborah and Josh chose me as their wedding photographer since I have shot Deborah’s sister's wedding before. She very much appraised my wedding photography for her sister’s wedding and had great confidence to book me. She just told me in an email they will get married at Cadella Park and the wedding date is on 1st of November 2025; we didn’t even see each other. In deep my heart, I want to return their trust, I want my beautiful wedding photos for Deborah and Josh to approve she made a right decision.
Groom Preparation: Stylish Contrasts & PS5 Battles
When I arrived at Josh’s house, I found everything perfectly organized. Josh’s suit was displayed on a mannequin, with the groomsmen’s suits lined up on a rack alongside. His shoes, cologne, whiskey, glassware, and watch were displayed on a black platform. The contrast of the black elements against the off-white walls created a very stylish and sophisticated arrangement for accessory and detail shots.
In the other room, Josh and his groomsmen were enjoying some pre-wedding entertainment—playing PS5 games to get excited for the day ahead. I didn’t interrupt the game time; I know boys don’t like people interrupting them when they are enjoying a video game, even their girlfriends or mums! I sneaked into the room with the suits to take detail shots first. When I returned, they were still playing intensely, allowing me to capture some great candid photos of the groomsmen party in their element.
Soon after, the best man reminded Josh, "Hi, your photographer is waiting for us." I nodded and said, "No rush, we have plenty of time." They cleared the table and grabbed glasses as Josh poured whiskey for everyone. Outside on the spacious estate grounds, I suggested the group take a walk. Amidst the farm landscape, they chatted and laughed, giving me the chance to capture authentic, candid moments before Josh’s father helped him into his vest and suit.
Bride Preparation: Champagne & 2025 Trends
Next, I headed to Deborah’s house. She was nearly finished with her makeup, sitting calmly as I took candid photos of the final touches. Her professional makeup artist had elaborately selected a lipstick color to match the wedding’s botanical theme. Before putting on the dress, Deborah and her five bridesmaids shared a fun moment by the window opening champagne. I love these moments—the sound of the pop and the bubbling champagne always bring an infectious energy to the room.
The white wedding dress hung elegantly on a white hanger against the frame of the windows. Deborah, wearing a stylish robe, stood close to her dream dress, glancing at it and hugging it. I documented this sequence in a storytelling manner. A unique detail for this wedding was the bridesmaids' attire—a major trend for 2025. They wore unconventional designs in varying but harmonious warm tones, showing the couple’s unique and sophisticated taste.
After Deborah was ready, I captured a "First Look" with her father. It is one of my favorite moments to photograph, as it always produces deeply emotive and honest images.
The Ceremony: A Father’s Dual Role
The ceremony was held at Cadella Park, a working farm rich with history in the verdant Macedon Ranges. Guests entered through old farm gates and a hawthorn hedge to reach a giant cypress tree that served as the central backdrop, with country fields and grazing animals glimpsed beyond.
The ceremony featured a very special element: the father of the bride was also the celebrant. He played two incredibly important roles that day, and I could feel the weight of the moment on his shoulders. Specifically, when he announced, "You may now kiss your bride," I could see a complexity of emotion in his eyes. As they walked back down the aisle, guests threw flower petals at the perfect moment, creating a magical exit.
Exploring Cadella Park
Cadella Park, located between Woodend and Kyneton, is a spectacular venue by Prunella. It embraces rustic, European elegance across its original 1845 buildings. The property offers an abundance of backdrops: from the majestic avenue of elms to the European-style outdoor courtyard planted with rosemary and olive trees.
The bridal party photos were very chilled. The contrast between the groomsmen in formal black suits and the bridesmaids in subtle coral and yellow tones created a unique aesthetic against the historic stone walls and corrugated iron water tanks.
A Romantic Sunset at the Barn
The reception was held in the century-old Barn, the heart of the Cadella Park experience. With its Mediterranean-style terracotta concrete floor and six-metre long bar, it is a magnificent space for a celebration.
During sunset, Deborah and Josh finished dinner a little early to catch the golden hour. They were so relaxed, walking hand-in-hand through the grass. Suddenly, they began to run, laughing together in the fading light. These natural, unforced photos perfectly captured the joy of their new journey together.
