Jemma & Vernon’s Waterside Wedding at the Sails by Rydges in Port Macquarie

19 – 11 – 2022

Living in Sydney, Jemma & Vernon told me that they wanted to go somewhere different for their Wedding. After visiting Port Macquarie for a holiday they knew it was the perfect place. Being asked to travel for Wedding is one of the biggest privilege’s as a Wedding Photographer and there is no way I could say no. I packed my camera bags, left the Blue Mountains and headed north for Port Macquarie.

Prior to the Wedding Ceremony we took some getting ready photos of both the Bride & Groom. This was incredible because it definitely makes the whole Wedding album appear more complete when including photos from both sides before the ceremony. Just before leaving for he Ceremony we also had a very heartfelt first look between the Bride, Jemma, and her Father which was super special to be a part of.

The Wedding Ceremony took place at St Agnes Catholic Parish in the town Centre of Port Macquarie before we travelled back out to the Sails by Rydges on the shores of the Hastings River. Sails was an absolutely incredible venue with heaps of locations in and around the main building to take photos of the newlyweds. We got photos out the front with the vintage cars they arrived in, went around the side on the grass for some family photos and group shots and then took the couple alone down to the pier for a more intimate session. The whole afternoon was just beautiful with perfect weather for such an occasion.

As the sun was going down we moved inside and upstairs to the function space for the Wedding Reception. The white walls and floor to ceiling glass windows behind the bridal table gave this space such an elegant feel and really capped off what was such a gorgeous wedding. Congratulations once again Jemma & Vernon. You guys were amazing to work with and made my job so easy!

I loved

How Jemma & Vernon had a receiving line at the conclusion of their Wedding Ceremony. They waited outside the church and greeted every single guest as they walked out. It seems like a small thing but your Wedding day is all about the guests you have there so I think it’s so important to take the time to stop and appreciate them. You’d be surprised how little time you get to spend with guests at your wedding.

Something Unique?

This may not be the most unique thing ever but it is definitely the first time I have Photographed it and that is Fireworks and a Smoke Machine on the Dancefloor. It made their first dance look incredible and really elevated the photos from the whole reception. Also the vintage cars were a lovely touch!!

Time-Savers?

These guys had quite a few, from getting ready at their Reception Venue which was super close to where their Ceremony was. Doing this meant they didn’t have to stress about leaving early because it was literally a 5-minute drive. They also didn’t do many family photos (like 3 in total) which gave them so much more time to relax and spend time enjoying themselves after the ceremony.

Other superstar vendors:

Ceremony Venue – St Agnes Parish, Port Macquarie
Reception Venue – Sails by Rydges, Port Macquarie
Dress – Idora Bridal
Bridal Hair & Make-up — A Touch of Elegance
Bridesmaid Hair & Make-up — Just Beautiful
Florals & Styling — Emma Lilly Styling
Cake — Baked by Katie
Videography — My Film
DJ, MC, Photobooth & Fireworks — BJ Entertainment