Wedding receptions at Spicers Clovelly Estate are always a treat for all, tonight promises good things. Chef Cameron Matthews of The Long Apron, Spicers Clovelly Estate in-house two hat restaurant has prepped a fabulous meal for Gria, Luke and all their guests to enjoy.

But I’m getting ahead of myself. Gria and Luke have just got married on the deck (you can see the images here) and are now receiving lots of hugs and kisses form their family and friends. It’s raining, so we’re on the deck, out of the weather.

Family Photos done and dusted, it’s time for guests to relax before the wedding reception starts. As if on queue, the rain stops to allow us to get out from under cover.

Gria and Luke and their bridal party head out armed with a picnic basket, some bubbly and a few beers. Time to celebrate, relax and share stories of the day so far.

The landscape around us is misty with low cloud caressing the trees in the distance. It’s a perfect back drop for our photo shoot. Through my lens, I’m watching a bunch of good friends having a great time on a really important day, clicking the shutter when the moment is right.

Gria is such a trooper, the ground is wet and the red dirt is now red mud. We do our best to avoid the worst of it but some of it does get on the bottom of her dress. Gria’s not at all concerned.

The light is just about gone, guests are warming up for a great night of fun and laughter. Time for the reception to get going. Couple by couple, the bridal party are introduced. Now it’s time for Gria and Luke, Everyone’s standing, clapping, making noise.

The way The Long Apron has been set for Gria and Luke has created different spaces for the guests, some are on square tables inside, others are on long tables, some inside, some outside. It all works. I find the key to photographing a  wedding reception is to photograph expressions, energy and noise. Moments unfold, open your eyes and see, they are everywhere. I’m watching old friends chatting, catching up on stories about what’s been happening since last together. Smiles, laughs, click! Entrées are here, I see guests nodding approvingly as they are delicious!

Listening to the wedding speeches, it’s crystal clear Gria and Luke are surrounded by a bunch of people who love them. From proud parents to Luke’s best mate Chris, Gria’s sister Gemma, I’m listening to stories sharing how special these guys are. There are tears too! Click!

The room is getting louder… Main and dessert courses have come and gone, guests are mingling, Gria and Luke are mingling with family and friends.

An outdoor lounge room has been set up on the grass, it’s a perfect lux photo booth. The band is playing, the dance floor is full, this party is going off!

A wedding day like all days comes to an end, time for farewells. Gria and Luke look so happy, a honeymoon in Fiji awaits. As I’m packing up, I’m reflecting on what I’ve been part of today, a real love story and celebration. Driving down the mountain, it’s misty, foggy in patches. My iPhone’s playing my favourite drive music, happy days.

Gria, Luke, all the very best for your lives together, it was an honour to be your wedding photographer and tell your wedding story. I’m sure the years ahead will be spectacular for you.