Ashlee & Joe’s Rustic Autumn Romance at Tanglewood Estate

Ashlee and Joe’s wedding at Tanglewood Estate was the perfect blend of rustic charm, elegant styling, and heartfelt moments, all wrapped in the golden glow of an autumn afternoon. Set against the rolling hills and lush vineyards of the Mornington Peninsula, their day was a celebration of love, family, and the kind of serendipity only fate—and maybe Tinder—can deliver.

From the moment the day began, there was an air of timeless grace. Ashlee exuded elegance in her stunning gown from Foreverness Bridal Boutique, with flawless makeup by Jess Elizabeth Makeup and soft, romantic waves styled by Jordan H. Her morning was full of emotion and joy, especially during a touching first look with her dad, step-dad, and grandparents—a memory she and her family will cherish forever. Meanwhile, Joe looked effortlessly dapper in a classic suit by Black Tie Classic, a perfect complement to the natural beauty of the venue and the crisp autumn palette of sage green and terracotta that coloured the day.

The ceremony took place under the towering gums and rustic structures of Tanglewood Estate, with Ebony Carver Celebrant guiding the couple through heartfelt vows and plenty of happy tears. The floral designs by Buds n Blooms captured the essence of the season—organic, warm, and beautifully wild—while live melodies from Baker Boys Band set the scene for a tender and joyful union.

As the sun dipped low across the vineyard, the newlyweds stole away for portraits among the forest trails and lake reflections, wrapped in sunset hues and the quiet bliss of just-married magic. It was one of those sacred wedding moments—peaceful, surreal, and just for them.

The celebration continued with a reception filled with warmth, laughter, and dancing. A delicious feast by Finesse Catering Group brought everyone together at the table, while sweet treats from Peninsula Cake Art satisfied every craving with a display of cupcakes and a cake that was almost too beautiful to cut. Almost. But the true highlight of the night? Ashlee and Joe’s first dance. Choreographed to perfection with the help of Marshere, the couple swayed and spun across the floor to cheers and misty eyes. The energy then shifted as Baker Boys Band turned up the tempo, and guests took to the dancefloor—neon sticklights in hand—for a night of celebration that pulsed with love and pure joy.

Their story began in early 2019 with a swipe and a spark. A first date at Arbory led to an impromptu walk along Southbank with ice cream in hand—both unsure of where it would lead, knowing they were headed on separate adventures. But even with oceans between them, they never stopped checking in. Despite their plans, love found a way. Their connection deepened across continents until, finally, they found their way back to each other.

Joe’s proposal, a complete surprise during a snowboarding trip to Queenstown in July 2023, took place at the scenic Onsen Hot Springs—a romantic moment cleverly disguised as just another one of Ashlee’s expertly planned travel days. It was the start of a new chapter, written in the snow and sealed with a ring.

Reflecting on their wedding journey, Ashlee and Joe offer this advice to other couples: take your time, start early, and chip away bit by bit. Most importantly, keep communicating—about your dreams, your non-negotiables, and all the little things that matter.

Their wedding was more than just a beautiful event—it was a celebration of a love that grew slowly, intentionally, and across borders. A rustic autumn dream brought to life with love, laughter, and a dancefloor that will live in everyone’s memories.