BELLA & LIAM’S TOCAL HOMESTEAD WEDDING - HUNTER VALLEY
Some weddings are elegant.
Some are emotional.
And some are just unapologetically bold in the best possible way.
Bella and Liam’s wedding at Tocal Homestead was all of the above.
Set against the historic sandstone buildings and sprawling countryside, their day felt timeless and editorial - but with a very modern, very Bella twist. From champagne sprayed straight into the night sky to a dance floor that absolutely refused to calm down, this wedding was a celebration in every sense of the word.
Tocal Homestead is one of those venues that just gets it. Soft winter light, heritage textures, and endless pockets for intimate moments.
Bella looked unreal walking through the grounds in her gown, lace veil catching the light, tattoos on show, completely herself. There’s something powerful about a bride who doesn’t tone herself down for tradition - and Bella did not tone it down even slightly.
Liam, in his deep green suit, matched her energy perfectly. Grounded, emotional, quietly obsessed with her. The way these two looked at each other all day said everything.
We leaned into the contrast - soft, romantic portraits followed immediately by absolute party energy. One minute it’s forehead kisses in the gardens, the next it’s champagne straight from the bottle and laughter echoing off the walls.
The reception space was transformed into a warm, glowing party cave — disco balls hanging overhead, reflections bouncing everywhere, music pumping, drinks flowing. Bella & Liam busted into their reception while HOT TO GO was blaring, then were joined by every guest as they sang their hearts out.
The dance floor filled fast and stayed full. No awkward standing around. No polite swaying. Just people fully committing, which is always my favourite thing to photograph.
Bella has a strong personal style, and it showed in every detail - but nothing felt staged or forced. The day was intentional, personal and had me thinking - is this really my job?
And those are always the weddings that photograph best.
Mel x
Venue: Tocal Homestead
Celebrant: Beachside Ceremonies
Styling: Lovers Lane Weddings and Events
Content Creator: The Big Day Events
Make-up: Her Makeup Artistry
Hair: Gabrielle Jones Hair
Stationary: Designs to Adore
Florist: Sophia Wilde
