Em + Robert - Zensi Retreat

High-school sweethearts Em and Robert said they wanted their intimate wedding at Zensi Retreat in Mudgee to feel "relaxed, comfortable and fun, like we had just gone away for the weekend with all our loved ones". And it appears that's exactly what they got. Moments captured by their wedding photographer Calika of guests mingling barefoot, handwritten cards being read (and personalised everything courtesy of Em's DIY efforts), tears, laughter, rain, no rain, late night snacks, a piñata, cocktails and dancing all nod to a celebration supercharged with emotion and meaning.

Check it out below. And for more Zensi goodness, take a look at the weekend we spent at this stunning Mudgee wedding venue "working" here.

How did you and Robert meet? High school.

The vibe: Super minimal aesthetic and wanted the wedding to feel relaxed, comfortable and fun, like we had just gone away for the weekend with all our loved ones.

Expectations vs. reality: The day was way more emotional than I had ever anticipated which was so special. For me, even as a Type A, the planning and coordinating so many aspects of a dry hire was more than I had imagined, but it was well worth it.

Best thing you did? Late night snacks, prepared by my MIL.

Hit (or near) miss: It poured in Mudgee like crazy before the wedding, but our friends organised umbrellas and when Rihanna’s Umbrella came on, we danced with them and even did limbo with the umbrellas. It ended up being such a fun moment after the chaos.

If we had our time again... (is there anything you'd do differently in retrospect?) I would have fleshed out the rainy day plan more, wishful thinking shot me in the foot!

Rapid Fire Questions

Wedding splurge?

Photographer and videographer, Calika was everything and more.

Wedding save?

Decor and set up, made possible by our friends.

First look?

No.

Best thing you ate or drank on the day?

A Negroni pre-batched by my partner.

Aisle song?

"Summertime Magic", by Childish Gambino.

Ceremony or reception (which won)?

Firmly a tie, it would be like choosing a favourite child.

On-budget or over-budget?

Slightly over budget.

Honeymoon destination?

Peru, Bolivia, Columbia and Chile!

CREDITS: Photos and video Calika // Venue Zensi Retreat // Celebrant Kirralee Burke // Catering The Agrestic Grocer // Cake Rosie's Cake Corner // Bride's shoes Attico // Groom's suit M.J. Bale // Rings Laura Miers // Hair Cheveaux Studios // Makeup Nikki Baxter Makeup // Transport Mudgee Radio Taxis // Marquee Adors.