Jessica Ashby and Hugo Ryan
Following a long-distance relationship, the pair married at Woodburn Homestead.
Sheep and cattle farmers Jess and Hugo met at boarding school in Adelaide. After making a long-distance relationship work for seven years – work and study taking them in different directions – the couple settled in Western Australia.
Finally moving back home to SA, Hugo popped the question while on a camping trip with family – a memory made even more precious when they also discovered they were expecting their first child.
Jess walked down the aisle at Woodburn Homestead in a custom merino wool gown. “There was an overwhelming feeling of love and gratitude,” Jess reflects on the day.
Venue Woodburn Homestead
Celebrant Melanie Millen
Bridal gown Horrocks Vale Collections
Flowers FloraLab Events
Cake Oui 8 Cake and Heidelberg Cakes
Photographer Love Wild Weddings
What was your inspiration behind the styling?
Our vision was always to have an outdoor, open air wedding and Woodburn Homestead was the perfect venue for this. We wanted the styling to be simple and fresh. I have an obsession with hydrangeas and ‘cottage core’, so the florals really hit the mark on that!
What was one of your favourite parts of the day?
We both loved the ceremony and the dance floor! Hugo particularly loved the exchange of our personal vows and for Jess, it was the overwhelming feeling of love and gratitude while casting eyes over all our nearest and dearest as she walked down the aisle. Our band, The Happy Leonards really brought the energy on the night and had us all wanting more!
Advice for anyone else planning their big day?
Everyone knows the day goes quick, so make sure you spend time with your people! Getting together with our bridal party and staying with them the night before allowed for great quality time together before the wedding. Try to allow yourself as much time with all your guests. It is also so important to make the day your own; go with your gut when choosing key vendors and choose to invite family and friends who love and support you the most! That’s what makes the day so memorable.
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This article first appeared in the June 2026 issue of SALIFE magazine.
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