Rivals in footy, lovers in life: Maddi and Alex's Vines of the Yarra Valley wedding

When Hayden O’Neill of by hayden photography arrived at Vines of the Yarra Valley, he instantly knew Maddi and Alex’s wedding day would be one to remember.

“The first thing I remember about the day was being greeted by beautiful florals and picturesque views,” explains Hayden looking back on Maddi and Alex’s March 18, 2023 wedding day.

Maddi arrived at her wedding ceremony accompanied by bridesmaids in sleek sage green dresses to match the day’s romantic colour palate and rural setting. The bride wore a modern off-the-shoulder gown with a sweeping tulle veil and soft, understated makeup. “Maddi looked absolutely stunning,” says Hayden of the bride’s wedding day look. “The guests filed in, and warm hugs were shared. The fun had already started before the ceremony with lawns games to get everyone in the mood for frivolity.”

Pete the Celebrant had the crowd in stitches with his signature cheeky, down-to-earth style. “As Maddi made her way down the aisle, Alex had tears in his eyes. Everyone could tell this ceremony was going to be emotional,” remembers Hayden. “From hearing the timeline of their love story to laughing about their rivalry with AFL teams, it was clear to all that Maddi and Alex have something special.”

Post-ceremony, Hayden expertly slipped Maddi and Alex away from their excited guests for some bridal party shots. The sweeping landscape and breathtaking 360-degree Yarra Valley views created the perfect backdrop. “I could tell this bunch loved being in front of the camera,” laughs Hayden. “Alex’s groomsmen brought out some of their finest dance moves which had me in stitches.”

Hoots and whistles welcomed the couple to their celebration hosted in Vines of the Yarra Valley’s stylish reception centre. Guests enjoyed world-class cuisine catered by the venue’s culinary team, featuring the freshest local produce and accompanied by free-flowing estate-grown Helen’s Hill wines.

“After the speeches, Maddi, Alex, and I went for a walk under the orange hue of the Victorian countryside sky,” remembers Hayden. “Honestly, it was one of the most incredible sunsets I’ve had the pleasure of witnessing at a wedding. It felt like it went on for an eternity, creating some beautiful moments.”

Returning to the reception, a doughnut tower was devoured, and the dancefloor quickly filled, setting the scene for festivities that went long into the night.

Maddi and Alex’s wedding was always set to be a beautiful day. The attention to detail, the weather, and the location made it one to remember.I enjoyed every moment and felt so welcomed by their family and friends, as well as the fantastic team from Vines of the Yarra Valley.