Welcome Toni to KISS — Relaxed Wedding Photography

Welcome Toni to KISS — Relaxed Wedding Photography

by | Oct 21, 2026 | wedding blog

We’re pleased to welcome Toni to the KISS team.

Toni, KISS photographer, seated on steps with her camera
Meet Toni, KISS Photographer.

If the thought of having your wedding photos taken makes you feel a bit awkward, you’ll like Toni’s approach. A little gentle guidance, plenty of conversation and someone who’ll probably try to make you laugh.

As Toni puts it, “I want your photos to feel like you.” That’s a good place to start.

Bride and groom kissing on a coastal clifftop
Coastal wedding photography by Toni.

A little guidance, plenty of room to be yourselves

Toni wants you to enjoy having your photos taken. You don’t need to arrive knowing what to do with your hands or how to stand. She’ll give you some direction and keep things relaxed.

As Toni says, “no one wants their photos to feel like school photos.”

Her way of describing it is more like a date night or family night than a production. There’s room to talk, move around and have a laugh. The aim is for you to feel comfortable with each other and with the person behind the camera.

And when the photos arrive, she wants them to take you straight back to those moments.

Black-and-white portrait of a groom carrying the bride beside the coast
Coastal wedding photography by Toni.

A love of photography that started early

Photography has been part of Toni’s life since she was about eight. She remembers taking photos of anything and everything when Instagram first came along. Some of those early accounts are still out there, much to her embarrassment.

At around 12, after plenty of asking, her mum bought her a first camera. For a while, it went everywhere with her.

Later, after some time away from photography, Toni bought a second-hand Canon and started again. She offered shoots to people she hadn’t met, built her confidence and kept working at it.

Looking back, she laughs about how obvious it seems now. She was always the friend taking the photos and videos, whether it was lunch, a night out or something worth remembering. The job she wanted had been there all along.

A look at Toni’s coastal wedding photos

We’ve included a selection of Toni’s coastal wedding photographs here so you can get a feel for her work.

There’s the sea and the evening sky, but have a look at the couple too. A close portrait together, a kiss by the sea, the groom carrying the bride. The scenery is part of it; so are the little things happening between the two of them.

Bride and groom standing together above the sea
Coastal wedding photography by Toni.

Working with Toni through KISS

Toni joins us as a KISS photographer, with the KISS team looking after your planning and communication. We help create an easy flow for the day, and Toni can concentrate on photographing it.

That might mean giving you a little direction for a portrait, then noticing what happens while you’re talking, laughing or spending time with the people you’ve brought along.

Katie and Zac’s winter elopement

For another look at Toni’s work, here are Katie and Zac in McLaren Vale. Their day moved from a personal ceremony with Deb, our KISS celebrant, to forest portraits between showers and a little time together indoors.

Katie and Zac embracing among tall pine trees
Katie & Zac’s winter elopement in McLaren Vale. Photography by Toni.
Katie and Zac together beneath a clear umbrella in the forest
Katie & Zac’s winter elopement in McLaren Vale. Photography by Toni.
Katie and Zac holding hands beside an open window
Katie & Zac’s winter elopement in McLaren Vale. Photography by Toni.

See Katie & Zac’s full wedding story and gallery →

Welcome aboard, Toni. We’re looking forward to more days like these.

Have a look through Toni’s work

Meet Toni and explore her wedding gallery. If her approach feels like a good fit for your day, get in touch with the KISS team and we can talk it through.

Glenelg Beach Wedding Rules

by | Mar 23, 2026 | Beach Weddings, Uncategorized, Wedding Advice, wedding blog, Wedding Ceremony, Wedding Locations

Glenelg’s shoreline offers a coastal setting for a small wedding, with places nearby for photographs and a meal. Before you settle on a spot, make the location arrangements part of your planning.

A couple walking along Glenelg beach
A real KISS wedding at Glenelg.

Start with the exact location

A beach, foreshore reserve and nearby park can have different booking arrangements. Send the City of Holdfast Bay the exact place you have in mind, your date, setup and pack-down times, and total numbers including suppliers.

Confirm permits and permission

Ask Council to confirm the current permit or notification process, any fee and the conditions for your proposed ceremony. Do not assume that a small wedding is automatically exempt, or that a public space can be reserved for exclusive use.

Use the Holdfast Bay council wedding guide or Council’s official website to start your enquiry.

Describe your ceremony setup

List the chairs, signing table, arbour, music and other equipment you want to bring. Ask about placement, anchoring, access, supplier vehicles and anything you must remove afterwards. The written response should cover your actual setup.

Plan for guests and the weather

Walk the route from parking to the proposed ceremony position. Check steps, sand, toilets and the needs of anyone who may find the approach difficult. Discuss wind, tide timing and a practical alternative location with your celebrant and photographer.

Keep photography and the ceremony connected

A short walk between the ceremony and photo locations can keep the day relaxed. Leave time for your guests to move comfortably and confirm any photography requirements with the relevant land manager.

Bring the arrangements together

Once the location conditions are clear, KISS can help you choose celebrant, photography and styling services for your day. Confirm the selected services and any location costs in your written quote.

Explore Glenelg wedding ideas · Compare KISS packages · Ask about your date

The Average Australian Wedding Now Costs Over $38,000

The Average Australian Wedding Now Costs Over $38,000

by | Mar 4, 2026 | elopement & micro wedding advice, Wedding Advice, wedding blog

The Average Australian Wedding Now Costs Over $38,000 in 2026

If you’re planning a wedding in Australia right now, you may have already discovered something surprising.

Weddings have become expensive.

According to a recent report highlighted by Forbes Australia, the average Australian wedding in 2026 now costs around $38,252.

For many couples, that number comes as a shock.

Because when most people first start planning their wedding, they imagine something much more affordable.

But once venues, catering, photography, flowers and guest numbers start adding up, the total cost can quickly climb.

And this is exactly why a growing number of couples across Australia are now choosing something different.

A wedding couple walking along a tree-lined path in black and white 

 

How Much Does a Wedding Cost in Australia in 2026?

Recent data shows that the average cost of a wedding in Australia is now just over $38,000.

Many couples originally plan for a smaller budget — often closer to $25k–$30k — but costs tend to grow during the planning process.

Things like guest numbers, venue upgrades, catering packages and styling can all increase the final price.

And before long, what started as a simple wedding plan can begin to feel more like a major event production.

Where Does the Wedding Budget Actually Go?

When couples start breaking down their wedding budget, they often discover that the biggest costs are not always what they expected.

Some of the typical wedding expenses in Australia include:

Photography
Videography
Catering
Venue hire
Flowers and styling
Music or entertainment
Celebrant fees
Wedding attire
Transport
Accommodation
Honeymoon

Each individual expense might seem manageable on its own.

But together, they can quickly push the total wedding cost into the tens of thousands.

Why Many Couples Are Inviting Fewer Guests

One of the biggest trends in weddings right now is smaller guest lists.

Many couples are realising that large weddings often come with a lot of pressure — financial pressure, planning stress, and the feeling of needing to create a huge event for everyone else.

So instead, couples are choosing to celebrate with just their closest family and friends.

Smaller weddings often mean:

More relaxed celebrations
More meaningful time with guests
Less financial stress
More flexibility with locations
More focus on the couple

The Rise of Elopements and Micro Weddings in Australia

Because of rising wedding costs, elopements and micro weddings have become increasingly popular across Australia.

Instead of organising a traditional wedding with 80–120 guests, many couples are choosing something much simpler.

Sometimes it’s just the two of them.

Sometimes it’s a small group of their closest people.

And often the experience becomes more meaningful because the day feels more personal and less like a large event.

Simple Wedding Options Couples Are Choosing

Many couples today are looking for simpler ways to get married without the huge cost or stress of a traditional wedding.

Some popular options include:

A legals only ceremony with a celebrant and witnesses.

KISSpackage.com.au/legals-only-wedding-ceremonies

relaxed farm or countryside elopement.

A pet-friendly Fleurieu Peninsula elopement with a small number of guests.

KISSpackage.com.au/pet-friendly-willunga-elopement

A private Adelaide Hills cottage elopement experience.

KISSpackage.com.au/adelaide-hills-cottage-elopement-macclesfield

Or even starting the journey earlier with an engagement photography session.

KISSpackage.com.au/adelaide-engagement-photos-elopement-photographer

A wedding couple standing together on a bushland path 

Do You Really Need a $38,000 Wedding?

A big wedding works beautifully for some couples.

But it’s not the only way to get married.

For many people today, the focus is shifting away from impressing hundreds of guests and towards something more personal.

Something quieter.

Something meaningful.

And often, the weddings couples remember the most are the simplest ones.

Just two people.

A small group of loved ones.

A meaningful ceremony.

And photographs that tell the story of the day.

Planning a Small Wedding or Elopement in Adelaide

If you’re considering a smaller wedding, there are now many ways to do it without the pressure or cost of a large traditional event.

Elopements, micro weddings and legals-only ceremonies allow couples to focus on what really matters — getting married.

And sometimes, that simplicity is exactly what makes the day unforgettable.

Frequently Asked Questions About Wedding Costs in Australia

How much does the average wedding cost in Australia?

The average Australian wedding now costs around $38,000, although many couples spend significantly more depending on venue choice, guest numbers and catering.

What is the cheapest way to get married in Australia?

One of the most affordable ways to marry is a legals only wedding ceremony, where couples complete the legal marriage paperwork with a celebrant and witnesses without hosting a large event.

What is a micro wedding?

A micro wedding is a small wedding with typically 10–30 guests, focusing on an intimate ceremony and meaningful celebration rather than a large reception.

Why are more couples eloping?

Many couples are choosing to elope because it allows them to focus on the experience rather than the pressure of organising a large wedding.

Retired engagement offer information

Retired engagement offer information

by | Mar 4, 2026 | Beach Weddings, Botanical Gardens, elopement & micro wedding advice, Elopements, Gallery, Micro Weddings, Uncategorized, Wedding Advice, wedding blog, Wedding Packages, Wedding Venues

KISS Package

This offer has ended.

The engagement photography and consultation offer is no longer available.

For help planning an elopement or micro wedding, contact Deb, our Enquiries Manager & Celebrant.

Talk with Deb about your wedding →

View current wedding packages →

Why More Couples Are Choosing Adelaide Hills Cottage Elopements

Why More Couples Are Choosing Adelaide Hills Cottage Elopements

by | Feb 27, 2026 | Adelaide Hills, elopement & micro wedding advice, Elopements, Wedding Advice, wedding blog, Wedding Locations

Why More Couples Are Choosing Adelaide Hills Cottage Elopements

There’s a quiet shift happening in South Australia.

More couples are stepping away from traditional wedding venues and choosing something smaller, slower and far more personal.

Instead of ballrooms and banquet packages, they’re booking private cottages in the Adelaide Hills — inviting only their closest people — and turning a weekend away into a wedding.

And honestly? It makes sense.

The Appeal of the Adelaide Hills

The Adelaide Hills offer something that city venues simply can’t.

Rolling landscapes.

Country town charm.

Cooler air.

Cosy fireplaces in winter.

Long golden evenings in autumn.

Towns like Macclesfield, Meadows and Echunga feel relaxed and real. There’s no rush. No city pressure. Just space to breathe.

For couples wanting a meaningful ceremony without the production, the Hills provide the perfect backdrop.

Why a Cottage Elopement Works So Well

A private cottage changes the energy completely.

You’re not “hiring a venue”.

You’re moving into a home for a couple of days.

You arrive.

Unpack.

Have dinner together.

Wake up.

Get married in the garden.

Share a meal.

Sleep in.

Wake up married.

There’s no strict venue cutoff time. No strangers walking past your ceremony. No commercial feel.

Just you and your people.

A 2-Night Wedding Feels Different

One of the biggest advantages of a cottage elopement is the 2-night structure.

Instead of squeezing everything into a few rushed hours, you create an experience:

Day 1 – Arrive & Settle In

Walk to the local café. Open a bottle of wine. Relax.

Day 2 – Wedding Day

A short, legal ceremony. Portraits around the cottage and surrounding countryside. Lunch or dinner with your guests.

Day 3 – Wake Up Married

Slow breakfast. No pressure. No chaos.

It feels calm. Intentional. Grounded.

Who This Style of Wedding Suits

Adelaide Hills cottage elopements are perfect for:

  • Couples wanting privacy

  • Second marriages

  • Blended families

  • Couples avoiding big guest lists

  • People who value experience over spectacle

If the idea of a 120-person reception makes you feel overwhelmed, this style might feel like relief.

Macclesfield: A Hidden Gem for Elopements

Macclesfield is one of the quieter Adelaide Hills towns, but that’s part of its charm.

It’s close enough to Adelaide to be convenient, yet far enough to feel like a proper escape. With heritage buildings, country roads and relaxed village energy, it’s ideal for intimate wedding photography and small gatherings.

And when you combine that with a private cottage stay, it becomes something special.

Planning an Adelaide Hills Cottage Elopement

If you’re considering this style of wedding, you’ll need:

  • Accommodation that allows small ceremonies

  • A registered celebrant

  • A photographer who understands intimate weddings

  • Clear guest limits

  • A simple structure

We’ve created a dedicated 2-night Adelaide Hills cottage elopement package at The Cottage Macclesfield that bundles all of this together.

You can view the full package details, inclusions and pricing here:

👉 Adelaide Hills Cottage Elopement – Macclesfield Packages

https://kisspackage.com.au/adelaide-hills-cottage-elopement-macclesfield

Final Thought

Big weddings aren’t wrong.

But they aren’t for everyone.

If what you really want is to stay somewhere beautiful, marry your person, share a meal with a handful of people and wake up married the next day…

The Adelaide Hills might be exactly what you’re looking for.

Two grooms walking together through sunlit trees
Front verandah and garden at The Cottage Macclesfield
A bride holding a colourful bouquet with trailing ribbon
Trending Elopements in South Australia

Trending Elopements in South Australia

by | Feb 23, 2026 | Beach Weddings, Destination Weddings, elopement & micro wedding advice, Elopements, wedding blog, Wedding Ceremony

Why More Couples Are Shifting Away from Traditional Weddings

South Australia is quietly becoming one of Australia’s most sought-after elopement destinations. And it’s not by accident.

Across the South Australia region — from the rolling vineyards of McLaren Vale and the charm of the Adelaide Hillsto the coastal cliffs and the gardens of Adelaide — couples are making a conscious decision to shift away from large, traditional weddings and towards something smaller, more meaningful, and far less overwhelming.

At KISS Package, we’re seeing it firsthand.

This isn’t just a trend. It’s a mindset change.

The Shift: Why Couples Are Choosing to Elope

1. Cost of Living Is Real

Let’s be honest — the cost of living in Australia has changed how people make decisions. Housing affordability, rising everyday expenses, and financial pressure are influencing wedding choices.

Instead of spending $40,000–$60,000 on a single day, many couples are investing in:

  • A deposit on a home

  • Travel experiences

  • Time off together

  • Or simply starting married life without debt

An elopement allows couples to celebrate their commitment without financial stress.

2. Less Pressure. More Meaning.

Traditional weddings often come with:

  • Family expectations

  • Guest list politics

  • Cultural pressure

  • “What will people think?”

Elopements remove the performance aspect. Couples can focus purely on each other.

We regularly hear:

“That felt calm.”

“I could actually breathe.”

“It felt like us.”

And that says everything.

 

Romantic portrait of newlyweds at Thorngrove Manor in the Adelaide Hills.
A bride signing the marriage register beside her groom
A wedding couple walking beside the glasshouse in a garden setting
A wedding couple embracing beneath a tree at Fleurieu Gin

3. South Australia Is Perfect for It

You don’t need to fly to Europe to have an incredible backdrop.

Within an hour of Adelaide you have:

  • Vineyards

  • Historic estates

  • Forests and waterfalls

  • Beaches

  • Private accommodation properties

South Australia offers variety without the chaos of bigger cities. It’s accessible, beautiful, and relaxed — which mirrors exactly what modern couples are looking for.

4. The Rise of Micro Weddings

Some couples still want a few guests — just not 120 of them.

Micro weddings (10–30 guests) are booming. They combine intimacy with atmosphere. Think:

  • A short ceremony

  • Beautiful photography

  • A long lunch or private dinner

  • Quality over quantity

It feels less like an event production and more like a meaningful gathering.

A bride smiling towards her groom beneath garden trees
A wedding couple kissing above a turquoise coastline
A bride looking back beside the sea in black and white
A small cliffside wedding ceremony in black and white

5. Intentional Over Impressive

There’s a noticeable cultural shift happening.

Couples are asking:

  • Are we doing this for us?

  • Or are we doing this to impress others?

Elopements are about intention. They strip things back to what actually matters — commitment, connection, and starting married life grounded.

The big reception can always happen later. Many couples are choosing a private ceremony now and celebrating with a larger party down the track.

How KISS Package Fits Into This Shift

At KISS Package, our focus has always been:

  • Simple

  • Meaningful

  • Low-overwhelm

  • Professionally curated

We combine celebrant, photography, and location guidance into one streamlined experience. Couples don’t need to manage ten suppliers or coordinate logistics alone.

It’s about removing stress — not removing significance.

What We’re Seeing for 2026 & Beyond

The trend is accelerating.

Bookings across Adelaide, McLaren Vale, and the Adelaide Hills are increasingly:

  • Weekday ceremonies

  • Sunset beach elopements

  • Winery-based intimate weddings

  • Private accommodation ceremonies

  • “Legals Only” midweek weddings

Couples want flexibility. They want authenticity. They want a day that feels calm, not chaotic.

And South Australia is quietly becoming a leader in this space.

A wedding couple sitting together indoors beside their bouquet
A wedding couple holding hands in tall grass
Two grooms smiling together in the evening sunlight
A wedding couple walking through Thorngrove Manor gardens

Final Thoughts

Eloping isn’t about doing less.

It’s about doing what feels right.

The shift we’re witnessing isn’t just financial or practical — it’s emotional. Couples are choosing peace over pressure, meaning over magnitude, and experience over expectation.

And that’s not a trend.

That’s a movement.

If you’re considering eloping in South Australia and want something simple, beautiful, and genuinely you — explore more at:

👉 https://kisspackage.com.au

Because sometimes the most powerful weddings are the quietest ones.

A wedding couple looking at each other inside a vintage vehicle in black and white
A wedding couple sitting together in an open landscape beneath the Flinders Ranges
A small wedding ceremony inside a rocky cave at Morialta
A couple holding hands beneath a white wedding arbour