Australia’s oldest riverfront vineyard, Dalwood Estate on the banks of the Hunter River, is a historic venue with breathtaking views – a truly enchanting place for a wedding.
But Dalwood Estate became more than just a winery to the bride, it was the place her grandfather first worked when he set foot in Australia after WWII.
Additionally, the laid-back atmosphere of Dalwood Estate perfectly aligns with Morgan and Matthew’s vision of an intimate gathering, where family and friends can come together in a joyous celebration.
From the charming ceremony space to the rustic yet elegant reception hall adorned with twinkling lights, every aspect of the venue contributed to the relaxed and inviting ambiance they envisioned.
Where did you get married?
Dalwood Estate in Hunter Valley, NSW Australia
Why did you choose to get married at Dalwood Estate?
Family history – my paternal grandfather was a winemaker in France and emigrated to Australia with his young family after WWII. Dalwood Estate was where he first worked when he arrived, I’ve been going there since I was a kid.
What was the most memorable part of your wedding day?
Not one moment, just a feeling that lasted the entire day and night which was, simply, happiness! We were a pretty chilled couple about the day, and just wanted to have fun. That set the tone for all our guests, and our pictures reflect just how relaxed and happy everyone was – it even rained but didn’t matter to us one bit!
Morgan, paint us a picture. What was the theme, style, colors, and overall vibe of your wedding day?
Relaxed and casual describes the vibe and theme! We worked with our stylist and florist and gave them enough of a brief of what we like and dislike, and left the rest to them, we wanted to be surprised, too! Native flowers everywhere, a bit rustic with long wooden tables and candles, banquet style food and a live band! Not to mention the best booze in the industry. Colours were mainly deep blues and dusty rose pinks, plus all the greenery from the flowers.
What was your favorite part of planning your wedding?
Just that we did everything together, even the suit and dress! Getting trusted vendors made it all that much easier, we were able to give direction and leave the rest to them. We didn’t consider a wedding stylist until mid-way through planning and while it was an unexpected added expense, it took major stress out of the day – soooo worth it!
What was the best investment you made for your wedding?
Definitely the wedding stylist, and the florist. Going native and in season for flowers cut that expense down, and they couldn’t have been more perfect.
Is there anything you would have done differently?
Get a bigger cake! Everyone loved it, we ran out. Also make sure you get a formal pic with all your guests in whatever combos you want. We had advice that you don’t need to do that because “is everyone going to hang these on their walls?” but I really regret not having those just for us, if anything! Also family get snarky if you don’t… just sayin’.
What was your favorite part of using WedSites for your wedding?
Tracking everything in one place and managing those invitations and RSVPs. We went completely digital and it was so easy.
Wedding planning is notoriously stressful. Now that you’ve gone through the process, do you have any advice or words of wisdom for couples who are currently in the midst of planning theirs?
Do what you want / like. You don’t need all the things you see at other weddings so don’t feel pressured to get the photo booth if you don’t want it. Expenses add up. Also the timeline is totally whatever you want! Cut the cake at the start, who cares? And make time for pics, those are the things that will last long after the day.
The amazing team of vendors involved with this wedding
Venue: Dalwood Estate
Photographer: Fiona Chapman
Officiant: Kate Andrews
Caterer: MEET
Cake Baker: Hannah Quinn
Decor & Lighting: The Event Artists
Entertainment: Red Soda Band
Florist: Worn Out Wares Flowers
Gifts & Favors: Sticky
Hair Stylist: Mandala Hair – Sam Gonzalez
Makeup Artist: Joliè Hair Makeup Beauty – Mara
Wedding Dress: Stitches Dressmaking | Tiff Manuell Bridal
Attire: Rundle Tailoring
Jeweler: York Jewellers
Wedding Planner: Andre from Dalwood Estate
Wedding Website: WedSites
