Especially when I first started booking weddings as a destination wedding photographer, so many people asked me, “Why do you travel so far for these events?”
My one and only answer?
Check out my photos, and you’ll see why!
These wedding celebrations are always the epitome of stunning and otherworldly. Whether it’s a tropical-inspired wedding on the Amalfi Coast or it’s an extravagant 4-day celebration in Mykonos, it’s incredible to be a part of something so spectacular.
And that’s exactly the case for this bohemian-chic destination Byron Bay wedding. So keep reading to see for yourself why I always jump at the chance to photograph a couple’s love!
Reimagining the “Barn Wedding” at the Contemporary Byron Bay Wedding Venue: The Orchard Estate
Barn weddings have been all the rage for the last several years. And for many of them, they turned into “Pinterest” weddings.
What I mean by that – a lot of them started lacking the very essence of the couple and the location they were in! Instead, they looked just like what someone found on Pinterest.
But what I absolutely love about Lilly Red couples is that they never turn to Pinterest weddings! They turn to their destination, fashion, art, architecture for their inspiration. And of course, they look inward to find ways to make their wedding more about them.
That’s exactly what this beautiful couple did for their Byron Bay destination wedding in Australia.
They found a gorgeous wedding venue called The Orchard Estate, which identifies as a country-luxe, contemporary barn-inspired restaurant and venue.
Instead of turning toward “shabby-chic, rustic” wedding design, this couple opted to use the gorgeous property (on a macadamia orchard!) for a bohemian-chic wedding.
But nothing compared to the stunning views of their ceremony site. With a giant tree serving as the head of the aisle, it was the perfect backdrop for their vows.
The Details of an Unforgettable, Bohemian-Chic Wedding Celebration
As a photographer, I’m always drawn straight to the details! Just like when you read a story, the details of a wedding are what paint the full picture.
And since I’m telling the story of the couple on their wedding day through my photography, I can’t forget those details.
For this Australian destination wedding, the couple went all in on the bohemian-chic dream. It was full of wildflowers, organic, natural-toned colors, and plenty of lace. Exactly the kind of wedding I love to capture!
A Color Story and Wedding Day Theme Inspired by Cappadocia, Turkey
Before the wedding, adventure-loving souls Ellie Watson (who’s the travel and food blogger behind The Wholesome Life!) and Alex took a trip to Cappadocia, Turkey, and they instantly fell in love with it.
Between the historic homes carved into those magical rock formations, and those colorful hot air balloons that fill the sky, it’s hard not to be inspired!
So they used their trip to Cappadocia as the inspiration for their wedding day’s theme and color story. They used natural-toned flowers like cream, dusty pink, wine red, and deep greens.
And they even had a petal toss once they were married, which felt like a miniature version of the hot air balloons that fill the sky in Cappadocia!
The Wedding Day Couture
My fashion-loving self loves to capture the couture of any wedding day. And this one didn’t disappoint.
My beautiful bride wore a Rue de Seine bridal gown for the wedding ceremony, which couldn’t have been more flawless for this bohemian-chic wedding. And to keep her bridal party (including her twin sister, Lauren Bullen!) on theme, her bridesmaids wore pastel-colored dresses that paired with the serene, airy environment of their ceremony site at The Orchard Estate.
She even had the dresses dyed with plants by Spell Designs to create an even more unique layer to the day!
And who doesn’t love a fabulous dress change between the ceremony and the reception? After they said, “I do,” she slipped away to change into a Grace Loves Lace off-the-shoulder gown with lace stars embellished all over.
Reception Details That Had Everyone Excited
After the ceremony, everyone made their way into The Orchard Estate’s barn-inspired restaurant for the reception. And it was one that kept everyone’s spirits up all night.
They even created a bohemian-inspired lounge area outside with a lit teepee, Turkish-inspired rugs, and floor cushions!
A Catered Dinner for the Wedding Guests
For their guests, Greenhouse Canteen catered a delicious dinner filled with pulled jackfruit sliders, eggplant parmigiana, DIY nachos, buffalo cauliflower rings, and so much more.
Everyone was satisfied and then leapt off to the dance floor to dance the night away!
A Private Dinner for the Newlyweds
But perhaps the sweetest part of the wedding was the extra moment the couple had to themselves during their private dinner.
Since the wedding day moves so quickly, you’d be amazed at how little it feels like you actually get to spend with your partner.
So these two found a way to have more time together to make their incredible day…even more incredible!
I think this kind of Byron Bay destination wedding and these photos speak for themselves as to why I love jumping on a plane and joining someone on their wedding day.
And I can’t wait to head off to my next adventure with you!
Reach out so we can chat about your destination wedding!
Wedding Day Vendors:
Photography: Lilly Red
Wedding Venue: The Orchard Estate
Florals: Bower Botanicals
Caterer: Greenhouse Canteen
Bridal Gown: Rue de Seine Bridal
Reception Gown: Grace Loves Lace
Bridesmaids Dresses: Spell Designs
Hair Artist: Alan Buki
Makeup Artist: Luciana Rose