There’s something special about couples who choose to make their own rules. These two high school sweethearts made the journey from Queensland to the Great Ocean Road to elope — and every detail of their day reflected who they are: deeply connected, creative, and wonderfully true to themselves.

Their day unfolded slowly and beautifully, beginning at a cozy homestead in Apollo Bay. Morning light filtered through the windows as they got ready side by side, laughter echoing through the house with their closest friends — just six of them, all dressed in bright, expressive colours that popped against the couple’s all-black attire. It set the tone for a day that was effortlessly stylish, intimate, and full of feeling.

The Road to the Otways

After getting ready, they packed the car and made their way through winding forest roads toward the Otways Redwood Forest — a truly magical place for an elopement. Towering trees, soft filtered light, and the sound of leaves rustling overhead created a stillness that felt sacred. Their celebrant, the incredible Marry Me Mads, brought warmth and humour to the ceremony, making everyone laugh and cry in equal measure.

The two exchanged their vows beneath the towering redwoods, surrounded by friends who stood in a circle of colour against the deep greens and earthy browns of the forest. It was intimate, emotional, and so perfectly them — simple yet unforgettable.

Hopetoun Falls Portraits

After the ceremony, we made our way to Hopetoun Falls for portraits — a moody, cinematic end to the day. The couple’s black outfits stood out dramatically against the misty waterfall and mossy rocks, creating a sense of contrast and calm. Every frame felt like it belonged to a love story written in quiet moments and unspoken connection.

The Sweetest Ending

What better way to celebrate than with cake! They cut into the vintage-style cake they’d baked themselves — another heartfelt touch that made the day uniquely theirs. There were no schedules, no rush — just the rhythm of the ocean nearby, the sound of laughter, and the comfort of being surrounded by people who love them deeply.

A Love Story on Their Own Terms

From Queensland to the Great Ocean Road, this elopement was proof that the best weddings are the ones that feel like you. Every detail — from the road trip playlist to the cake they made the night before — carried the couple’s warmth and creativity.

For me, capturing photo & video, it was one of those days that stays with you — full of mood, movement, and meaning. The Otways will always hold a kind of magic, but it’s stories like this that make it unforgettable.