Showcasing Tuscan Vibes on Waiheke Island New Zealand - Lu Lu and Jon Jon
This goes without saying, we love Mudbrick estate and at this point we feel like we are part of the venue itself, so we were so excited when Jon Jon and Lu Lu booked us for their special day on Waiheke Island. These guys had it sorted, from the night before venue, bridesmaids' colour schemes and umbrella/cowgirl hatted tom foolery as the bridal party entered the reception.
Getting Ready
Did someone say grand piano…. When we were online scouting the Tangaroa Estate, we noticed the terracotta roofs, vintage wallpaper and baby Grand Piano and knew we were going to have some fun shooting the start of the day. While the girls were sipping champagne in matching PJ’s, the boys were making coffee in the kitchen and putting final touches on their speeches. When it came time to put the dress on and do first looks, the venue gardens provided the perfect backdrop for this emotional moment. We could feel the excitement in this couple as they shared teary glances and soft words, taking a moment to themselves before the day's formalities.
When everyone was ready in their full glam we managed to work in a Vogue piano shot amongst the authentic joy and connection present amongst the family and closest friends.
Ceremony at Mudbrick Lodge
A bright and sunny day ensured this ceremony went off without a hitch. The guest arrived at Mudbrick Lodge as the wedding party was doing final touches in the venue's private rooms. As guests looked out to the sea views, surrounded by olive trees in the Tuscan-inspired estate, it's hard to tell you’re in the North Island of New Zealand. Classic style, pastel flowers and silky textures were features that worked so well with the surroundings and made this gallery timeless. After rock paper scissors decided who would read their vows first, we witnessed heartfelt words and a boogie back down the aisle to Taylor Swift after Jon Jon and Lu Lu officially tied the knot.
A champagne tower and celebratory drinks to follow as crowds eventually made their way down to the restaurant and we got to sneak some happy snaps and video with the bridal party at the Lodge. Making their way down the hill in golden hour, a quiet few moments were captured with the couple’s nearest and dearest. A cheeky half moon rise provided the perfect backdrop to capture the pure joy we felt with this group.
Reception at Mudbrick Restaurant
Napkin waves greeted the wedding party donned in pink cowgirl hats and armed with water pistols. This crew brought the energy and smiles to the reception and kept that energy up all night. The classic paved floor, corrugated chairs and fairy lights covering the roof make Mudbrick restaurant the ideal setting to relax with family and friends after a big day. A quick change into a reception dress and cutting the gorgeous raspberry-covered cake gave way to a night of dancing where we could capture some of our favourite candid moments.
Film and Super8 Inclusions
When we say this venue was made for film, we truly mean it. Captured on 35mm film, 120mm film and Super 8 video, the sandstone yellows, Tuscan estates, silky dresses and classic suits show up in ways you just can’t replicate with digital photography. Combine with flash photography at night, you get timeless imagery that you can look back on for years to come.
The grain, texture and movement captured on our Super 8 camera are so unique, and we absolutely loved capturing Jon Jon and Lu Lu in all the in-between moments. Film to us here at Wildfolk brings an authenticity and artistry to the day and is always our favourite images to edit and deliver.
Already got the venue sorted? Inquire here to see if we are the right fit for your special day.
