Château Dore Wedding – Bendigo
Old-world prep, sun-dappled vows and a golden field at sunset
Château Dore is one of those Bendigo venues that feels timeless from the first step through the gates. We began the day with bridal getting-ready photos in an old Bendigo hotel—heritage windows, vintage furniture and calm, candid moments as details came together. At the venue, the ceremony unfolded in a mottled, sun-filled garden (soft light filtering through the leaves), followed by golden-hour portraits in the field behind the estate and a love-filled reception inside one of my favourite spaces.
Why Château Dore works beautifully
Heritage romance: stone walls, ivy and garden rooms that flatter in every season.
Photo variety without travel: historic interiors nearby (for prep), leafy ceremony spots, and fields at the back for sunset.
Reception that feels intimate: warm light, great acoustics, easy flow between speeches and dancing.
The day in highlights
Getting ready in a Bendigo hotel
Classic bridal details in window light, a quiet moment with family, and that last deep breath before stepping into the dress. We kept direction light—buttons, earrings, veil, shoes—so the frames felt natural.
Garden ceremony in mottled sun
Vows beneath the trees with dappled light across the aisle. We oriented the setup for even, flattering light on faces and slipped into nearby shade for family portraits while guests mingled.
Fun bridal party photos at Château Dore
Château Dore is perfect for relaxed, personality-filled bridal party frames. We kept things unposed and light: a short walk along the garden paths, a couple of quick group prompts in front of the stone walls, then some movement shots to bring out real smiles. The mix of shade under the trees and open light by the field meant everyone stayed comfortable—and the photos feel effortless.
Quiet candids with platters & drinks in the garden
Before the formalities, we stole ten peaceful minutes in the garden with a food platter and drinks from the venue. It’s a lovely breather for the two of you—time to nibble, exhale and take in the day—while I capture true “in-between” frames: hands reaching for olives, a shared smile over a glass, the dress settled on the lawn, birds in the background. These little moments round out the gallery and feel like you.
Sunset portraits in the field
A short wander out back for the final glow—soft grass, open sky and a gentle breeze. Nothing staged: a walk, a twirl, a quiet forehead-to-forehead.
A love-filled reception
One of my favourite rooms: warm, welcoming and perfect for speeches that carry. Long tables, relaxed service, and a dance floor that stayed busy all night.
Tips for planning a Château Dore wedding
Timing: Late-afternoon ceremonies photograph best; keep 20–30 minutes at sunset for the field.
Shade strategy: Ask for a ceremony position with partial tree cover or consider a light arbour for midday.
Footwear: Lawn + gravel—bring a comfortable pair for portraits.
Wet-weather back-up: The interior spaces and verandahs photograph beautifully if showers pass through.
Supplier team (credits)
(Add names + links.)
Celebrant: Robyn Gordes · Dress: Stella Yorke from Belles & Bows Bridal Florist: The Eternal Vase · Music: Lucy (Rose) - Piano Accordionist · Catering: Happy Camper Pizza · Cake: Cakes for Occasion
Frequently asked questions
Do we need to leave for portraits?
No—gardens and fields on-site provide plenty of variety.
How much portrait time should we allow?
30–45 minutes post-ceremony, plus a 10–15 minute top-up at sunset.