I was fortunate enough to fly back to Mackay to capture Ash and Hayden’s incredible tropical wedding, which was breathtaking. Ash, with her impeccable attention to detail, took on the role of a wedding planner in many ways. Every aspect of their day was thoughtfully planned and executed to perfection, creating a celebration that was as visually stunning as it was heartfelt.
One of the day’s highlights was capturing the bond between Ash, Hayden, and their four-legged friend, Nellie. Hayden had an emotional reaction to Ash’s heartfelt gift to him. She gifted him cufflings with a lock of hair from their dog who passed away a while back. Hayden was caught off guard, and shed a few tears about this beautiful gift. These genuine, emotive moments make documenting weddings a privilege—not just focusing on the couple but weaving in the story and family and friends who complete the day.
Hayden’s touching moments with his mom and Ash’s emotional exchanges with her dad stood out as some of the most moving parts of the day. Weddings like this remind me why I love documentary wedding photography—it’s about more than just the big moments. It’s about telling the full story of the day, capturing the intricate connections and emotions that make each wedding unique.
As a documentary wedding photographer based in Bendigo, opportunities like this fill my cup. Travelling to Mackay to document such an emotive, heartfelt celebration felt like an honour. Being able to tell the story of not just Ash and Hayden’s commitment to one another, but also the love shared with their family and friends, is what I strive to do at every wedding I photograph.
Whether your wedding is in Bendigo, Mackay, or somewhere in between, I’d love to work with you to tell your story authentically and beautifully. Let’s create something timeless together.
Couple: @ashleigh_muscatPhotographer: @tanyastrauss_photoVideographer: @goodsoulsmediaMake Up Artist: @tamarabrownmakeupHair Stylist: @the.sleek.boutiqueFlorist: @starcut_flowersCelebrant: @say_i_do_celebrancyDress Boutique: @loveandlace.boutique.bridalStylist: @just.smittenSignage: @confetticreationsmackay