There's a certain charm at Riverstone. Weddings here are always relaxed and it's perfect for couples who love the Yarra Valley feeling and want a casual, more intimate setting for their special day.
Every wedding we've attended here has been stress free with a real focus on having a memorable time with family and friends, which was exactly what Akiko and Michael wanted. Read on!
Akiko and Michael had stayed in a nearby AirBnB the night before. Because they weren't having any bridesmaids or groomsmen, it was a lovely getaway just for two. Akiko's bestie dropped by to help with makup and before long, both Akiko and Michael were ready for the big day!
Riverstone Estate offered a beautiful suite for Akiko who chose to get into her dress at the venue. The place was bustling with acitivity as the final touches were put in place and guests started to arrive.
Most of Akiko's family lives in Japan, which meant that due to COVID international flight restricitions, they couldn't attend her wedding. Having pushed back their wedding date once already, Michael and Akiko decided to persist with their plans and livestream the ceremony to Akiko's family. With lower guest numbers, Riverstone Estate was the perfect choice, as their cozy dining hall with amazing views across the Yarra Valley, caters for around 70 people.
We were initially going to do photography only, but we included a short feature video so that Akiko's relatives in Japan would have something special to watch. So after a quick setup of our cameras and audio recorders, the stage was set!
Driving down in the buggy to the river is always a bit of fun, and there are some nice photo oppotunities down there amongh the reeds. Because weddings at Riverstone are so relaxed, our photography session almost felt like Akiko and Michael had simply gone for a picnic and a quiet stroll afer their ceremony.
Surrounded by family and friends, Akiko and Michael had a lovely lunch reception, and guests were treated to specacular views out on the verandah.
We love Riverstone Estate and from our experience, it draws couples who are happy to forego some of the fanfare and stresses of a grand wedding. They prefer a more intimate setting, with a priority on spending time with family and friends. For Akiko and Michael, it was a beautiful day to remember, and Akiko has told us several times how she frequently looks at the photos and the wedding album and just smiles as she reflects back on their amazing time there. And we do too!
If this sounds like the style of wedding you'd like, give us a call for more information and we'll help capture your special day in the Yarra Valley too!