Stephanie & Joey’s Panama Dining Room Wedding
Stephanie and Joey’s Panama Dining Room wedding was nothing short of inspiring. These two have the kind of love that sonnets, love stories, and rom-coms are written about.
The Panama Dining Room, located in the heart of Fitzroy, was the perfect choice for their celebration. With its soaring arched windows and warehouse-style elegance, it’s one of Melbourne’s most iconic spaces — and the backdrop for a day filled with laughter, tears, and so much joy.
The Beginning of Their Day
From my very first meeting with Steph (while Joey was catching up on sleep after his insanely early work start), I knew this wedding was going to be beautiful. They were organised, had locked in an incredible team of vendors, and most importantly, they were genuinely excited to get married.
Steph and Joey both got ready at Ovolo Laneways, a boutique hotel in the heart of Melbourne. Inspired by the city’s hidden laneways and street art, it was the perfect place for wedding prep. With street art murals and city views, it gave us a creative backdrop for candid getting-ready photos.
I was joined by the amazing team at Earthy Tones Film. If you’re looking for a Melbourne videographer, they’re the dream team — their films are stunning, and they’re the perfect balance to my energy. Having a photographer and videographer who work seamlessly together is such a game-changer for couples.
A Radiant Bride and a Proud Dad
Steph looked absolutely radiant in her Emily May Bridal gown… elegant, timeless, and perfectly her. Her veil caught the light beautifully, adding a touch of magic to her look. She and her bridal party were glowing as they counted down the minutes.
One of the most emotional moments was her first look with her dad. There wasn’t a dry eye in the room (yes, that includes me, will cry at your wedding… sorry not sorry), such a special memory to capture.
Panama Dining Room Wedding Baby!!!
Joey waited nervously but excitedly for his bride. As Steph arrived in a vintage car with her father, the anticipation in the room soared. The moment Joey saw her walk down the aisle was pure magic — emotional, heartfelt, and unforgettable.
The ceremony itself was everything you’d hope for: beautifully styled by State of Nature with moody florals that popped against the arched windows, and led by a celebrant who mixed tears with laughter. Live music set the atmosphere perfectly, creating a truly moving start to their marriage.
Personal Touches That Made It Theirs
What I loved most about Steph and Joey’s day were the little details:
- Joey’s love of Batman woven subtly into the styling (and their Batman themed limo!).
- Steph’s career in cinema reflected through movie-inspired touches.
- Handwritten love notes they exchanged before the ceremony — their reactions were priceless.
It was these thoughtful details that made their Panama Dining Room wedding so unique.
Photos in Fitzroy Gardens
After the ceremony, we headed to Fitzroy Gardens for wedding photos. Of course, Melbourne delivered a classic downpour the moment we arrived… but did that stop us? Absolutely not! With clear umbrellas in hand, we embraced the weather and captured some stunning shots.
Pro tip: Unless it’s torrential rain, don’t stress! Clear umbrellas keep you dry and look great in photos. Rain often adds a touch of romance — and it gave Steph and Joey a quiet moment together away from the crowd.
A Reception Full of Love
Back at Panama Dining Room, the celebrations continued. Emotional speeches, endless laughter, dancing, a fabulous cake, and even a photobooth — the night was overflowing with joy.
The venue itself shone: once a textile factory, now transformed into an elegant yet relaxed warehouse space. The staff were phenomenal, the food outstanding, and the atmosphere unbeatable. A Panama Dining Room wedding truly has it all — style, character, and a serious wow factor.
The Perfect Ending
As their photographer, it was an honour to capture Steph and Joey’s love story. Their day was filled with emotion, personality, and so much fun… a celebration that felt authentically them.
Steph and Joey, thank you for trusting me with your memories. What an unforgettable day!
Of course, if you’re having a Panama Dining Room wedding, I’d LOOOOOOOOVE to capture your day.
Venue: Panama Dining Room
Photography: Me! Clodagh Jane Photography
Videography: Earthy Tones Film
Getting ready location: Ovolo Laneways
Celebrant: Celebrant Felicity
Florals: State of nature floral
Dress: Emily May Bridal
Suit: Formal Red
Cake: Zephyr Bloom Cakes
Hair: Arlo and Co Hairdressing
Make up: Lina Elh
Acoustic singer: Sounds Like Cassidy
Limo: Exotic Limo
Photobooth: Ghost Booth
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