Scott Surplice

Kelly & John — A Joy-Filled Mona Farm Wedding in Regional NSW

BY

Some weddings carry a particular kind of energy — the sort that hums quietly at first, then builds and builds until it spills out onto the dancefloor.

Kelly and John’s wedding at Mona Farm was exactly that.

They met years ago at a party, and from the very beginning their connection felt effortless. When it came time to choose a wedding venue, they knew they wanted somewhere special — somewhere that felt elevated, beautiful, and unlike anywhere their friends had celebrated before. Mona Farm ticked every box.


A Ceremony Full of Emotion at Mona Farm

The ceremony took place on the Crabapple Lawn, one of Mona Farm’s most picturesque ceremony locations. Under soft, overcast skies, the light was gentle and flattering — perfect for an emotional, intimate ceremony.

Kelly, a bundle of joyful energy, wore every feeling on her face. Her personal vows were deeply moving, and there wasn’t a dry eye in the front row as family members shared every moment with her. Laughter, tears, and quiet pauses all played their part, giving the ceremony a real sense of depth and honesty.

Kelly’s veil was something truly special. Hand embroidered by her, it included their names and small moments from their relationship — a visual timeline stitched together with care. It felt intimate and intentional, a reflection of both her talent and the depth of feeling she brought into the day.

This is where Mona Farm really shines — creating space for emotion without ever feeling overwhelming.


Wandering Through the Gardens

After the ceremony, guests moved to the Croquet Lawn for drinks and pre-dinner speeches, while Kelly and John slipped away briefly for portraits.

They were clear about one thing: they didn’t want to be away from the celebration for long.

So instead of a long portrait session, we wandered — exploring the gardens, moving through the field of flowers, and making our way toward the reception. Photos unfolded naturally along the way, including a few quiet moments on the bridge, before rejoining their guests.

The overcast skies gave the gardens a soft, painterly quality. Muted greens, gentle light, and space to breathe — it was calm, unforced, and completely in tune with the day.


A High-Energy Reception to Kick Things Off

As the evening began, the energy shifted.

The bridal party made a high-energy entrance that set the tone immediately. Corey, one of the groomsmen and the MC for the night, knew exactly how to get things moving — and instead of easing into dinner, the reception kicked off with a full-blown dance party.

All guests were invited straight onto the dancefloor as Kelly and John entered, and from that moment on, the night never really slowed down.

Kelly later changed dresses for the first dance and dancefloor — ready to move, laugh, and celebrate properly. She loves to dance, and it showed.


Why Mona Farm Was the Perfect Choice

Kelly and John chose Mona Farm not just for its beauty, but for what it represents.

It’s refined without being stiff. Grand without feeling overwhelming. A place where couples can feel free to be themselves while surrounded by extraordinary scenery.

This is exactly why I love photographing weddings at Mona Farm. The setting elevates the experience, but it’s always the people — their reactions, emotions, and connections — that truly matter.


Words from Kelly & John

“Having Scott photograph our wedding at Mona Farm was one of the best decisions we made. It honestly felt like we had known Scott forever and he captured all the little details and silly moments so beautifully. I had some pretty wild photo ideas and Scott leaned into the weirdness perfectly.”
— Kelly & John


Mona Farm Wedding Photography

If you’re planning a wedding at Mona Farm and are looking for photography that feels natural, relaxed, and grounded in real moments, you can read more about my approach here:

👉 Mona Farm Wedding Photographer — natural, relaxed wedding photography

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