The first time we laid eyes on Mount Ophir Estate we were confused. How did a property so unique and incredible go under the radar for so long? Not saying we’re real estate gurus by any stretch but over the years we’ve sniffed out a lot of secret gems. Anyway, we got over ourselves and after approx 10 seconds of walking around the estate, fell in love with this slice of Victorian history.

When one of our fave photographers Georgie James sent us the wedding of Olivia and Stephen at Mount Ophir Estate, it was a no-brainer that we’d share with you. And the fact that this clever couple had engaged local wedding planner and stylist Forethought by Samantha to manage their 280 guests (!) and bring together this amazing party only served to seal the deal.

It was a stunner of a day with one of the most beautiful outdoor ceremony set-ups we’ve seen. Check it all out below.

Olivia, tell us about how you met and the proposal?

We both grew up in the small NSW town of Griffith and have been friends since we were 15 (now 28!). To keep a long story short, he kissed me one night in Canberra when we were both studying at university and here we are! The proposal was in Melbourne and was perfect: bottle of wine, tunes playing in the background, outside on the deck and completely took me by surprise!

What sort of vibe were you hoping to create for your wedding?

Walking the line between traditional and modern. Our style is minimalist and timeless I think.

What traditions did you involve during your big day?

This is a fun one – we hired out the entire venue of Mount Ophir and had our immediate family and 20 of our closest friends stay on site with us. We stayed up drinking and reminiscing with each other but went to sleep in different rooms. I had a 6am start and I don’t think he got up till 10am so we didn’t see each other the day of the wedding, which leads up to my favourite moment.

What advice would you give to other couples leading up to their big day?

Put your foot down! There are so many opinions coming your way, it is you and your partner’s day. It is about you both and no one else, so do what you want and enjoy every minute because the day goes by so quickly!

What does marriage mean to you?

Everything. I have loved him since we were 16 and once we actually get into the house we are building and move out from our parents it really will be wedded bliss!! LOL.

What was your favourite moment on your wedding day?

When reading this question we both looked at each other and said the first look. There was so much anticipation and build up, which our photographer planned perfectly. As I was approaching my now husband he was nearly jumping out of his skin, and then when we saw each other for the first time it was just an absolute wave of emotion.

How did you find Mount Ophir Estate?

We knew we wanted a winery type wedding but with our invite list at 280 people it was difficult to find a venue that could fit us. I hired Forethought By Samantha and that honestly made the process so much easier – I would still be choosing colour schemes if it wasn’t for that woman!

Ceremony song?

‘Instrumental of 100 years’ – Christina Perri, but what was fun was our exit song ‘Signed, Sealed, Delivered, I’m Yours’ – Stevie Wonder.

First dance song?

‘More than words’ – Extreme.

CREDITS: Photos Georgie James // Videographer Justin Moon Productions // Flowers Wren Floralista // Ceremony and reception Mount Ophir Estate // Catering Ebden and Olive // Cake Greg Cottom Cakes // Styling and planning Forethought by Samantha // Bridal gown La Chateau Blanc Couture // Brides shoes Nine West // Veil Raffaele Ciuca // Bridesmaid jumpsuits Fame and Partners // Bridesmaid gifts Viktor & Rolf and Kat Von D Beauty // Grooms and Groomsmen suits Ron Dalla // Ties ASOS // Rings Miagem // Hair Jack and the Fox // Makeup MUMU Makeup Artistry // Music Solace Duo // Celebrant Benny Roff // Prop hire Events Matter and Bourke Hire.

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