Renee and Ryan have been coupled up for a decade. But WHEN exactly they met? That’s a bit of a mystery, even to them. “Our families were good friends long before we were born, so we spent our childhoods orbiting the same parties and birthdays,” the groom explains. “While there were always subtle, cheeky hints from our families about us getting together, I knew I had to trust my own gut and wait for the right timing.” A real-life rom-com!
The couple had an inkling that a winery would lend itself beautifully to the vibe they were after, and with Cleveland Estate (not far north of Melbourne) they were onto a winner. They made it their own with soft tones, vintage aesthetics and European-inspired elements.
“We also incorporated an Italian streamer tradition into our first dance,” shared the duo, who both have Italian heritage. Some other fun elements we adore from their day? There’s almost too many to name. Perhaps Renee’s Donatelle Godart Paris two-piece, the Off The Hook guestbook, the Ferrari (!!), and The Knave’s spontaneous rendition of Sweet Caroline.
We could go on and on and on, friends. But you just need to see this one for yourself. Scroll away to catch Ryan and Renee’s day, artfully captured by photographer Tom Hvala (aka Thomasjpg).
A PEACEFUL VINEYARD WEDDING VENUE IN VICTORIA
“Cleveland Estate offered such a calm atmosphere, which is just what we wanted. The picturesque views of the vineyard, beautiful gardens, and the homestead really caught our eye. We loved the idea of being able to stay on-site with our family and friends, to get ready and be together without the fuss of driving from place to place.”
FERRARIS, FORDS & A SWEET FAMILY TRADITION
“Having both Renee’s dad’s Ford and her uncle’s Ferrari really ended up being such an amazing addition to an already beautiful day. Both Renee and I were driven to the ceremony in the cars, myself in the Ferrari and Renee in her dad’s car. [He] has driven all his children on their wedding days in his car.”
Wedding Stationery Designed By The Bride
“I DIY’d the wishing well. I was really intrigued by the organic/floral shape of the wishing well boxes that are made out of thick Italian crepe, and thought it was a beautiful way to tie it into the day without making it so obvious as to what it is. I also designed all of my wedding stationery, from the invitations to the menus and name cards. Being a graphic designer there was a lot of pressure to be my own client. However I did keep things fairly simple and kept it timeless. Utilising beautiful coloured stock, white-white ink printing, and type and printers’ ornaments that gave a vintage flare.”
FIRST LOOK & PRIVATE VOWS
“My favourite moment was our first look and private vows. Ryan and I decided that to calm the nerves we would see each other before the ceremony. It was the best call ever. It was such a beautiful moment for the two of us. It was such a special way of beginning the journey of marriage together and the chance to have a calm moment before the big moment.” (Ryan) “The ‘first look’ gave me the chance to say things to Renee that were more personal and really only for her to hear. When I shared my vows, I did end up having a cry. It all just hit me in the moment, but they were happy tears.”
Wedding Guests Rave About Photographer, Videographer & Surprise Entertainment
“Throughout the day, guests were constantly wondering who our cool videographer (Ben McFadyen – These Wild Eyes) and photographer (Tom Hvala – Thomasjpg) were and where we found them. Everyone was so intrigued by Ben’s 16mm camera and Tom’s film camera setup. Once the photos and video came out, everyone was blown away by the classy, vintage feel. They both perfectly captured the happiness of the day, and it is definitely what our guests are still raving about most. Also, Logan (The Knave), the DJ, spontaneously decided to perform a cover of an Elvis song, Sweet Caroline for the crowd, which absolutely blew everyone away. Neither of us was expecting it, and we had guests coming up to us all night asking if it was planned. We had to tell them we were just as surprised as they were! It really was so much fun.”
Get your fill of winery wedding inspo here on Hello May to the brim with real nuptials and pin-worthy pics. Then click here to browse 14 of our favourite vineyard venues in Australia. Head to the directory to contact our mates at Off The Hook about their audio guest book options, or click here to explore vendors local to Victoria.
CONTRIBUTING VENDORS Photographer Tom Hvala – thomasjpg Cinematographer These Wild Eyes Florist & Drapery Raven & the Rose Stationery & Signage Renee (Bride) Venue Cleveland Estate Lancefield via Lancemore Cake Maker Mignone Cakes Wedding Favours Baci Chocolates Audio Guest Book Off The Hook Entertainment, Sound & Lighting Hire The Knave Celebrant Megan Thompson Rings Eloise Falkiner THE BRIDE Bridal Gown & Veil Designer Donatelle Godart Paris Bridal Boutique Carte Blanche Bride Hair Piece & Accessories Maison Sabben Shoes Manolo Blahnik via Sororite, Roger Vivier Hair & Makeup Juliana Benjumea via Tonic Agency Fragrance Fragonard Bridesmaid Dresses COS Bridesmaid Shoes Marcs via The Iconic THE GROOM Suit, Shirt, Pants, Bow Tie & Groomsmen Suits P. Johnson Tailor Dante La Verde Shoes Aquila Watch Seiko via David Jones Grooming Korea Salon
