Nicole & Nathan’s Intimate Hunter Valley Elopement
Some love stories just feel meant to be. For Nicole and Nathan, their wedding day at Mercure Hunter Valley Gardens wasn’t just about rings, vows, or a first kiss as husband and wife—it was about celebrating the life, love, and family they’ve built together.
Seven years earlier, to the very day, these two first met. And from that moment on, they never stopped talking, laughing, and finding joy in even the simplest of things—whether it was cycling together, going to concerts, or planning their next adventure. Their wedding was a chance to honour all of that, in a way that felt perfectly them: simple, heartfelt, and surrounded by their closest people.
An Elopement Filled With Heart
Nicole and Nathan chose an elopement-style wedding with their guests, including their five children who played the most special roles of all. Their son Noah carried the rings, their daughter Hannah signed as witness, and Sophie proudly stood by her mum as a bridesmaid. Every child had a part to play, which made the day feel like a true family celebration.
The ceremony was intimate and heartfelt. Guests arrived early, the Hunter Valley air was filled with excitement, and then Nicole and Nathan shared their vows before sealing it all with laughter, hugs, and happy tears. Nothing was rushed, nothing was forced—it was simply real, authentic, and overflowing with love.
The Photos They Dreamed Of
When Nicole and Nathan described how they wanted to feel looking back on their photos in 20 years, they said: carefree, happy, and full of love. And that’s exactly what their day gave us.
After the ceremony, we slipped away for some natural, romantic portraits around the Hunter Valley. With no bridal party and no fuss, it was just the two of them—holding hands, laughing, and soaking in those “just married” feelings. Their photos show a couple who are completely at ease with one another: fun, playful, and deeply connected.
A Reception by the Fireplace
The celebrations continued in a cosy reception room with a fireplace—warm, inviting, and full of laughter. Guests enjoyed canapés and drinks, before the room was filled with music. Nathan and Nicole’s nephew and a close friend performed live, singing five special songs that set the tone for the night. Their bridal dance was sung live, a unique and emotional moment that no one will forget.
Cake, music, family, and love—it was everything an intimate wedding should be.
Why I Loved Photographing This Day
Nicole and Nathan remind me why I love being a Hunter Valley elopement photographer. Their day wasn’t about ticking boxes or putting on a show. It was about connection. It was about celebrating their children, their values, their laughter, and their perfectly imperfect story.
Every photo from this day feels natural, soulful, and real—just like them.
Thinking of an Intimate Wedding or Elopement?
If your vision is a heartfelt, fun, family-centred celebration that lets your personalities shine, I’d love to be there—capturing the sweet, soul-deep moments.
Let’s create timeless photos that show how fully in love you are, how genuine the laughter is, and how perfectly matched you feel together.
👉 Get in touch here to start planning your own wedding photography.
Not long till the next blog, see you soon!
