Sarah & Nick | Boutique Wedding Photography | Athol Hall, Mosman, NSW

On February 13, 2017 by Anthony Ponzo With 0 Comments - Weddings

Sarah & Nick only approached me a few months prior to their wedding. It worked out well because early January isn’t usually too busy for boutique wedding photography. It often reaches above 35℃ in Sydney which sometimes puts people off. But the day was destined to be amazing, with a lush forest location overlooking Sydney Harbour and backing onto a National Park – heat or not, I was pretty excited!

Nick was getting ready in western Sydney and although he was wearing a singlet and shorts the whole time I still managed to get a few shots of his suit! (And no, he didn’t wear the singlet & shorts to the wedding!) But the real action was from his twin boys, Sebastian & Hugo. These two kids loved the camera!! With Nick’s mother & brother helping them get dressed in matching outfits all they could do was look at me – it made for some great images and they were so much fun to be around! Helped relax Nick a little too I think :)

Then it was a short drive to see Sarah. Her dress was stunning. Made by a local bridal shop called Lost in Paris, it was hand-made with 80 year old lace and looked incredible! Such a nice classic fit and style.
The house that Sarah was getting ready in was perfect for photography – beautiful bay-windows and stained glass all round. Plus a back room that was filled with natural sunlight! I almost didn’t want to leave…but it was off to Mosman we went!

Athol Hall is just past Taronga Zoo in Sydney’s north shore. It’s in a unique position where it backs onto a National Park, has access to a private beach and also has incredible Sydney Harbour views!
The ceremony took place on the lawn in front of the reception venue. Everything went smoothly, except that Sarah forgot her bouquet as she was walking down the aisle! Not to worry – I quickly ran up, found it inside, gave to to her and we tried again.
I mentioned their twin boys earlier. Well, they aren’t shy, that’s for sure! They were walking around, talking to mum & dad and at one point during the wedding vows, both Sarah & Nick were holding on of their children each. It was so nice to see them be part of the wedding (even if it wasn’t planned!) and the parents took it all in their stride.

Being a boutique wedding photography studio means I get to spend a lot of time with my clients. And being that Sarah & Nick didn’t have any bridal party it meant when we went for our formal photos it was just us three. And that’s a great thing! I get to know them both a bit more, we get to share stories and more than anything else it creates a very relaxed, natural feel. And I think that shows in the images below.
Walking along the beach holding a champagne glass, playing in the water or just sitting on a seat having a chat. It all flows very naturally.
Having Sydney Harbour as a backdrop on a cloudless day doesn’t hurt either!

After some quick photos on the beach and through the National Park it was time for the couple to meet their guests and celebrate their marriage! Athol Hall provided some lawn games and guests both young and old were having a great time as the sun set.
The venue itself was decorated in a minimal, rustic style. 3 long tables resembling a large family dinner. And that’s what it felt like. Everyone was family.
After some speeches and cutting a 4-layer cheese-wheel cake it was time for the dance. In front of all their guests Sarah & Nick took to the dance floor and you couldn’t wipe the smile from their faces!
Then it was time to party – and party they did! Almost all the guests were on the dance floor at one point, hands in the air jumping and dancing.
A perfect way to finish an incredible day.

Groom’s Calvin Klein suit

These 2 twin boys were so much fun & had loads of style! Loved every minute.

Father & Son, before the big day.

Just look at these two – little bow ties and suspenders!

Down the Garden Path provided some beautiful flowers throughout the whole day.

The stunning dress by Lost in Paris. It’s handmade with 80 year old lace. Such a classic look.

Sarah getting some final touch-up’s before she gets her dress.

This sun-room was literally filled with sunlight that bounced off the white walls – a photographers paradise!

Gold shoes, silver rings & diamonds.

Sarah’s mother helps her put on her handmade wedding gown.

This bay window was made for photos!

A beautiful detail shot of Sarah putting her shoes on and her engagement ring.

Sarah actually requested this image and it came out incredible. Being back-lit through the stained glass front door.

It’s often the simple shots which come out the best.

The moment you realise you forgot your own bridal bouquet…!

So many smiles & happy faces as she walks down the aisle to her waiting husband.

This is such a beautiful moment for me – both bride & groom holding one of their children each, saying their wedding vows like it was a walk in the park!