Ana & Dylan’s COLLITS’ INN WEDDING – Blue Mountains

Ana & Dylan's Collits’ Inn wedding in Hartley Vale was perfection. Hartley Vale is in the Blue Mountains, approximately 10 km west of Lithgow. The small village is rich with colonial history and is known for its gorgeous sandstone buildings from the 19th century. Collits’ Inn is the longest-standing building in the Blue Mountains region. The property has a large homestead where both the Bride & groom's crew got ready separately, which allowed for a super low-key, chill morning. The ceremony spot was only a short walk from the Bride's room at the front of the property, fully shaded by trees.

The Groomsmen arrived at the ceremony location, walking through the hedge and down the aisle just as the bridesmaids & Bride would soon walk. Celebrant Rebecca George welcomed all the family & guests before the Bride & her crew made their way down the aisle. A "flower man" who led the way for the girls donned a silver bumbag full of petals, some retro shades & an abundance of swagger.

Bride Ana made her way down the aisle with both her Mum & Dad by her side. Groom Dylan could not contain his emotions, so we were sure to capture this beautiful moment. Being able to freeze a moment with such raw emotion into a photograph to keep forever is such a privilege.

Between the ceremony and reception locations was a beautiful garden area that had been thoughtfully decorated with eclectic tables and chairs. The guests were served canapes and drinks while entertained by lawn games and music as they awaited the guests of honours' return. After a few quick photos, the bridal party joined their guests to get the party started.

Once the couple had downed a couple of drinks to keep the good vibes rolling, we rounded up the bride tribe & snapped some photos around the property. Starting under the shade of the trees near the ceremony, then utilising the stunning architecture of the old homestead before sending the bridesmaids & groomsmen to canapes so we could focus more on the newlyweds.

Having arrived at Collits Inn an hour early, I'd scouted the property and found some hidden gems for Dylan & Ana's photos. A stand-out of the many spots was a narrow pathway between the homestead & shed, with dense plant cover, the beautiful soft light & pastel tones made for some incredible intimate portraits of the lovers.

Soon after this, we mingled back in with the guests so that the couple could be present & take it all in. Being part of canapes, catching up with friends and family and enjoying the day that the couple had spent so long planning was so important, so having a well-thought-out timeline really worked in our favour.

The reception occurred in the barn; the impeccably styled space with unique ambience from the warm lighting & personal touches made the most incredible reception spot. All in all, this rustic wedding venue has to be a favourite of mine to shoot.

VENUE: COLLITS INN

“Count yourself blessed if you get this legend as your photographer!
Bryce was the epitome of perfection from beginning to end. His professionalism, preparedness, consistent communication and laid-back nature make for the perfect photographer, especially for my introverted self, and made the day super breezy with his incredible dad jokes & Simpsons quotes. We were super happy with Bryce on our wedding day and once we saw our wedding photos he completely blew our minds. They were incredible. You can feel his passion and commitment for his work.

I cannot compliment Bryce enough, both as a person and as a photographer. He made my wedding journey so much easier. Such an awesome dude, highly recommend!”