Featured Bride: Maddi Samuels

Venue: Markovina Vineyard

Date: 23 May 2026

Bridal Gown: Trish Peng

Photography: Hollow & Co.

Beauty by Sophie Team: 3 x Hair & Makeup artists

There is something truly magical about an Autumn vineyard wedding. On the 23rd of May, our team had the absolute pleasure of getting the beautiful Maddi, her six bridesmaids, and her lovely Mum ready for her wedding to Jonte. Held at the stunning Markovina Vineyard, the day was the perfect blend of classic elegance and relaxed celebration.

Every laugh, toast, and finishing touch of the morning was beautifully captured by the talented team at Hollow & Co.

Dancing Queens & Bridal Glam

The morning of the wedding sets the tone for the entire day, and Maddi’s preparation suite was unmatched. Maddi was incredibly relaxed throughout the morning, surrounded by a fantastic bridal party of girls who had her back every step of the way. The entire morning was filled with endless laughs and plenty of dancing to lots of ABBA, the ultimate soundtrack for a bridal glam session!

To complement Maddi’s breathtaking, timeless Trish Peng gown, we designed a beauty look that was the epitome of classic romance:

• The Hair: Maddi went for a classic low bun with soft, face-framing pieces to add a touch of effortless texture. Understanding the flow of a wedding day, all six of her bridesmaids also opted for up-dos, a genius choice for hair that stays perfectly in place from the first morning look to the final dance.

• The Makeup: The vibe for the entire bridal party was glowy and natural. Our team of three artists focused on radiant, skin-first complexions that looked flawless both in person and under the lens.

  
  

Our featured bride, Maddi, gave us the inside scoop on her love story and her dream day.

From the Surf to the Aisle

Every great love story has a beautiful beginning. For Maddi and Jonte, it all started in the ocean.

"We met while surfing at Māori Bay through one of my best friends," Maddi shares.

From catching waves together to walking down the aisle, their journey led them to Markovina, where they celebrated their love surrounded by lush vines. When asked to describe the day in just three words, Maddi didn't hesitate: "Beautiful, Fun, & the Best-Day-Ever!!!"

The Most Memorable Moment

While the entire day was a dream come true, there was one specific moment that stood out above the rest for Maddi.

"A cliché one, but definitely walking down the aisle with my dad and seeing Jonte for the first time," she remembers. "It’s a moment you always dream about."

Seeing Maddi look absolutely radiant in her low bun and Trish Peng dress as she made that unforgettable walk is a moment we won't soon forget.

A Seamless, Effortless Celebration

When planning their wedding, Maddi and Jonte had a very clear vision. They wanted tradition, but without any of the stuffiness.

"We wanted a classic and traditional wedding that felt relaxed and effortless for everyone," Maddi explains. "Our goal was simply to create the best celebration possible. Having both our ceremony and reception at the same venue allowed for a seamless flow to the day and, most importantly, gave us more time to spend with our family and friends."

By keeping everything at one gorgeous location, the couple maximised their time making memories.

We are so incredibly grateful to have been a part of Maddi's morning, helping her feel like the most confident, beautiful version of herself for the best day ever.