Dreaming of a European Summer

Chances are you’ve seen what feels like everyone on social media making the annual pilgrimage north to experience the European summer. My feed has been a plethora of cyprus trees, yachts speeding along village coastlines, narrow streets lined with pastel-coloured houses, and the clearest aqua-blue waters backdropped by white cliffs. Safe to say, I can feel the warmth and c’est la vie mindset just thinking about these images.

Many of these images also featured euphoric brides and grooms in the throws of their wedding day. Strutting their stuff next to those adorable little Fiats with a negroni in hand, of course. It’s provided me with endless wedding inspiration, regardless of having spent most of this winter closer to home.

If you’ve been pining for a Eurotrip but haven’t been able to escape the Australian winter this time around, why not transmute that inspiration into your wedding planning!

Some benefits to keeping your wedding venue local vs going the European route:

• You and your families save on flights, accommodation, and transportation
• Being in the same time zone as your wedding vendors, making communications and meeting throughout the planning process  easier
• Less stress and unexpected surprises
• Saving time on travel and having more flexibility
• Avoids any passport, visa or documentation requirements

While you may not experience the full cultural immersion that travel offers when keeping your wedding local, one thing you don’t have to compromise on is having a stunning location and venue for your day.

I’ve curated a list of some of the most beautiful wedding venues right here in South Australia that will have you feeling like you’ve landed in Tuscany minus the jetlag.

Villarica

Villarica, which means ‘rich village’ in Spanish, is a luxury Tuscan-inspired hideaway located in South Australia, just 40 minutes from Adelaide Airport. The property offers two fully stocked kitchens, entertaining areas, and a private dining experience. Guests can arrange for chauffeur transport or helicopter transfers. The estate is surrounded by vineyards, olive groves, and native bushland. It is a truly secluded and tranquil place, making it the perfect setting for you to say ‘I do’.

Kingsford the Barossa

Keeping it in the Barossa Valley, experience a quintessentially South Australian heritage wedding at Kingsford the Barossa. Dating back to 1856, this venue, which can now sleep up to 32 guests, has undergone a multi-million dollar transformation. Nestled amidst gum trees and rolling hills a short 45-minutes from Adelaide, Kingsford offers an immersion into the Australian countryside in an idyllic and elegant escape. Exchange vows amidst the vineyards, followed by fireside cocktails and a night of celebration. Blending heritage stonemasonry, modern luxe, and a touch of contemporary, the Homestead offers a seamless fusion of tradition and style. With added luxuries like a pool, it’s the epitome of refined elegance.

Mandalay House & Garden

This coveted venue combines elegant, European-style gardens set against quintessential Australian landscape, making it an excellent choice for bespoke weddings. Found in the Fleurieu Peninsula, Mandalay House & Garden boasts stunning coastal views paired with lush gardens and a villa-style residence. This venue captures the essence of Tuscan elegance, offering a romantic and intimate setting for weddings and elopements. Head here to watch and relive Meg and Oliver’s glorious December wedding.

Padthaway Estate

Head down the Limestone Coast and you’ll find English elegance and charm at Padthaway Estate. The estate exudes an elegant and timeless aesthetic, characterised by its refined architecture and natural surroundings. With a focus on minimalist sophistication, Padthaway Estate combines modern elements with that rustic vineyard charm. The expansive outdoor area, surrounded by rolling vine-covered hills, offers that European feeling right here in South Australia.

Maison de Moon

Located in Clarendon, Maison de Moon is a captivating French provincial farmhouse, perfect for couples envisioning a quaint fairy-tale wedding. This venue boasts a rustic yet elegant European style, complete with enchanting gardens, a charming barn, and a reception area with exposed wooden beams. Maison de Moon emanates a timeless allure, offering couples a versatile space to customize their dream wedding.

Yatahlia Manor

Yatahlia Manor is a stunning wedding venue nestled just below the Adelaide Hills in South Australia. It is set on 7 acres of picturesque grounds, featuring a beautiful duck pond, sweeping lawns, a fountain, waterfalls, and gorgeous gardens. The manor itself is a stately Victorian home with elegant interiors that are perfect for a wedding day. Yatahlia Manor is a haven of charming locations that present a plethora of possibilities for capturing the special moments of your wedding day.

Al Ru Farm

Adelaide’s very own enchanting garden gem, Al Ru Farm redefines what’s on offer for wedding venues in South Australia. Established in 1979 by a local couple, the Irving family has cultivated this space into a quintessential garden oasis. Offering an array of stunning backdrops, from the ethereal White Wedding Garden draped in wisteria and roses, to the iconic glasshouse, everywhere you look, you’ll have a frame-worthy imagery. With spaces for 35-350 guests and French-inspired on-site accommodations, Al Ru Farm ensures you’ll have a seamless celebration. Embodying French-inspired allure, weddings here exude an ineffable romantic charm for couples seeking an idyllic union in South Australia.

Carrick Hill

An exquisite heritage estate in Adelaide, South Australia, Carrick Hill offers a charming venue for weddings. Set amidst stunning gardens and historic architecture, it provides a romantic backdrop for ceremonies and receptions, all within 20 minutes of the city. The gracious Haywards Room accommodates up to 90 guests, while the enchanting gardens offer endless outdoor options. Exclusive use of the estate allows couples to create a bespoke celebration. Carrick Hill’s timeless beauty and elegance make it a coveted choice for couples seeking a refined and memorable South Australian wedding. With its rich history and picturesque surroundings, it promises an enchanting matrimonial experience.

Coriole Vineyard

Situated in the McLaren Vale region, Coriole Vineyards will transport you to the rolling vine-covered hills of your Tuscany-inspired dreams. The estate features a charming blend of vineyard views, rustic architecture, and Mediterranean gardens. With warm terracotta tones and a scenic backdrop, Coriole offers an enchanting setting for weddings oozing in Tuscan romance. Head here to read more about Coriole and relive Elly and Jason’s stylishly stunning summer wedding.

Seppeltsfield Winery

Steeped in Barossa Valley’s rich history, Seppeltsfield Winery Estate offers a luxurious backdrop for weddings. Its heritage-listed gardens and historic Barrel Hall provide an exquisite setting for a lavish celebration. With award-winning wines and a timeless ambience, this venue promises a truly opulent experience for couples and guests alike.

Marybank Estate

Situated in the scenic Adelaide Hills of South Australia, Marybank Estate offers a picturesque wedding venue. Established in 1842, its heritage-listed allure is enhanced by verdant gardens and sweeping views. Couples can say their vows in the historic stone chapel or amidst the meticulously landscaped grounds. The rustic barn reception venue exudes refined country charm, hosting up to 140 guests. With adaptable indoor and outdoor spaces, Marybank provides a personalised canvas for bespoke weddings. Its natural beauty creates a captivating ambience for couples seeking a romantic celebration.

Chateau Yaldara

Nestled in the Barossa Valley, Chateau Yaldara exudes European charm with its vineyards, rustic architecture, and serene surroundings. Just an hour from Adelaide with on-site accommodation, this venue offers a perfect blend of South Australian beauty meets provincial allure, making it an ideal choice for a European-inspired wedding.

The Lane Vineyard

The Lane Vineyard embodies understated luxury in the Adelaide Hills. With its modern, chic design and breath-taking vineyard views, it offers an exclusive setting for discerning couples. The elegant dining room, paired with exceptional cuisine and world-class wines, creates an intimate atmosphere for a sophisticated celebration.

Adelaide City

Don’t overlook the little ol’ city of Adelaide and the glorious offerings available along the North Terrace Precinct. With The South Australian Museum, the State Library, and the grand façade of the Art Gallery all within minutes of each other, why not pay homage to some of the classic architecture that is the backbone of Adelaide.

Okay, Time for a Limoncello

If you weren’t already envisioning a European-inspired wedding I bet you are now! No matter if you fly to the other side of the globe or host your celebration right here in South Australia, there’s no compromise on incorporating those quintessential elements that bring European elegance to a wedding day. If this post has only inspired to actually go to Europe, I have all the information you need in my ultimate guide to planning a destination wedding.

As a seasoned wedding photographer based in Adelaide, South Australian, I’d love to be a part of bringing your European-themed wedding dreams to life and immortalising them for generations to come.

Let’s craft your perfect day together. Get in touch, and let’s bring your vision to life.

Evelina x