Some weddings arrive with an unmistakable sense of intention.

From the moment Chenae and Elias’ day began at The Merribee, there was a feeling that everything had been carefully considered — not for effect, but for meaning. The kind of day where emotion sits close to the surface, and love isn’t something you have to search for. It’s simply there.

---

A Space That Took Their Breath Away

The Merribee lent itself beautifully to the tone of the day.

European-inspired gardens, soft greenery, and tables set beneath the stars created an atmosphere that felt romantic without being overstated. When Jerin-Lei from Bohemian Blooms revealed the reception space for the first time, the reaction said everything. Chenae and Elias stood there holding each other, visibly overwhelmed — knees buckling, hearts full.

It was one of those moments you don’t manufacture. You just witness.

---

Open Hearts, Easy Connection

From early on, it was clear how comfortable Chenae and Elias were with one another — and with letting that be seen. We bonded quickly, and it didn’t take long before their guard dropped entirely. Their connection felt natural and unselfconscious, the kind that translates effortlessly into photographs.

They weren’t performing for the camera. They were simply being themselves — affectionate, present, and completely absorbed in the day.

Those are always the weddings that give the most back.

---

Light, Trust, and Letting Things Unfold

Having photographed many weddings at The Merribee, I knew exactly where the light would be working in our favour as the day unfolded. Chenae and Elias trusted that process completely, allowing us to move gently through the gardens and let the portraits happen in between conversations and laughter.

Nothing rushed. Nothing forced. Just small pockets of time where the light, the space, and their energy aligned.

---

A Ceremony and Celebration Full of Feeling

Monty King guided the ceremony and reception with warmth and humour, striking that rare balance between heartfelt and light-hearted. His presence set the tone early on — relaxed, engaging, and quietly confident — and carried the celebration through the night.

As dusk settled in and the lights began to glow, the day softened into evening in the way The Merribee does so well. Guests gathered, stories were shared, and the atmosphere shifted from anticipation to celebration.

---

Photographing Weddings at The Merribee

I’ve photographed many weddings at The Merribee over the years, and days like this are a reminder of why it continues to stay with me. The space, the pace, and the way it invites emotion to unfold naturally make it a beautiful place to document real connection.

If you’re planning a wedding here, you can see more celebrations I’ve photographed — and read about my approach — in my guide to photographing weddings at The Merribee.

---

Chenae and Elias, thank you for your openness, your trust, and the way you allowed the day to be exactly what it needed to be. It was a genuine privilege to witness and photograph.

Chenae & Elias’ wedding was featured in Together Journal.