A Five-Day Modern Vintage Wedding at Capriole Estate

Suzi and James planned their wedding around a simple idea: give family and friends enough time together to make the gathering feel bigger than one day. Their five-night celebration at Capriole Estate in Eerwah Vale, Australia, brought 87 guests to the property for a ceremony, a clear marquee reception and an informal get-together the following day.

The choice was personal. Suzi had lived in Australia for just over 10 years, while her family lived in New Zealand. She wanted a venue where guests could stay together for a few nights. Capriole Estate had room for that, and the group enjoyed the stay so much they began talking about making it an annual trip.

A setting that shaped the celebration

The property’s greenery, Mount Eerwah backdrop and multiple gathering spots helped the couple host the ceremony and reception without leaving the venue. The ceremony took place by a dam on the lower part of the grounds. For dinner, guests moved to the upper part of the property and a clear marquee.

The look paired white and navy with a natural setting, bringing a polished feel to the outdoor celebration. White Images photographed the day, including portraits framed by the mountain and the surrounding landscape.

Personal style and florals

Suzi wore a long-sleeved Marilyn Crystelle gown with a plunging back. She described it as a splurge, but said she loved wearing it and felt wonderful on the day. Her outfit offers a useful reminder for couples setting priorities: choose the details that matter most to you, then decide where they fit in your budget.

Simply Style Co. created bouquets of white roses, ranunculus and stock, with Pieris japonica and eucalyptus. The restrained palette worked with the garden setting while keeping the flowers distinct against the greenery.

Designing a marquee reception

Because Capriole Estate wasn’t set up as a wedding venue, Suzi worked with a range of suppliers to bring the day together. She met Chelsea from Simply Style Co. a year before the wedding with an example of the look she had in mind. After discussing the brief and visiting the venue, Chelsea prepared a proposal that helped establish the overall style. Suzi trusted her to carry the design through, with a result that exceeded her expectations.

For couples taking on a venue that needs more coordination, Suzi’s planning approach is worth considering. She hired Emily from Stella Weddings as an on-the-day coordinator, shared a run sheet and reviewed backup plans together a week before the wedding. With the details handed over, she could enjoy the day without managing suppliers herself.

Food, wine and time to reconnect

Food and wine were priorities for the couple. Something for Catering served canapés while Suzi and James were away having photographs taken, followed by a two-course seated dinner. The caterer used a food van as its service base, combining the practical setup with food the couple praised for its quality and presentation.

The next day, about 50 more people returned to the property to spend time by the pool. Something for Catering prepared salads, and the group added a barbecue lunch. For Suzi, that extra gathering mattered: a reception can pass quickly, especially when many guests have travelled a long way, so a second day made room for unhurried conversations.

Wedding credits

Photography: White Images. Styling and floral design: Simply Style Co. Coordination: Stella Weddings. Venue: Capriole Estate. Dress: Marilyn Crystelle Bridal. Accessories: Samantha Wills. Shoes: Mode Collective. Bridesmaid dresses: By Johnny. Robes: Plum Pretty Sugar. Bridesmaids’ earrings: Lovisa. Bridesmaids’ shoes: Verali. Groom’s and groomsmen’s suits: Roger David. Groom’s shoes: Country Road. Bow tie: Scotch in Soda. Catering: Something for Catering. Cake: Tome. Rings: Underwoods Fine Jewellers Kawana. Transport: Pick-up Company and Hinter Coast Transport. Makeup: Miranda Eblem. Hair: Cassie Bimrose. Entertainment: Radio Club Band. Stationery: Minted. Celebrant: Jay Flood.