International Women’s Day 2024
Every year on March 8 women across the globe are celebrated for their social, economic, cultural and political achievements. International Women's Day exists to highlight the everyday struggles that women face as they strive for gender equality. It exists to educate and raise awareness for women's equality and call for positive change advancing women. Today is an important date for women all across the globe as they strive for accelerated gender equality and equity.
Here at Stones of the Yarra Valley, we are proud to have a predominately female team and even prouder that our leadership team is 80% women, a number well and truly above the industry standard. We strive to eliminate the glass ceiling that so many women in the workforce face…
Every year on March 8 women across the globe are celebrated for their social, economic, cultural and political achievements. International Women's Day exists to highlight the everyday struggles that women face as they strive for gender equality. It exists to educate and raise awareness for women's equality and call for positive change advancing women. Today is an important date for women all across the globe as they strive for accelerated gender equality and equity.
Here at Stones of the Yarra Valley, we are proud to have a predominately female team and even prouder that our leadership team is 80% women, a number well and truly above the industry standard. We strive to eliminate the glass ceiling that so many women in the workforce face.
Every single day the women amongst us inspire and move us with all they contribute. Whilst we try to empower and acknowledge the work that women do on a daily basis, it’s important that on this day dedicated to women that we say an extra loud thank you to all of the women, past and present, that have had an impact on us on both professional and personal levels.
As we acknowledge all of the contributions that are made to our wonderful workplace by the women who work here, we talk to a small handful of women across the group who give us some insights into their experience as a woman in the workforce.
Vonnie Frazer
Creative Director and Owner
What is your proudest achievement in your role?
When my husband Steve and I first started Stones of the Yarra Valley over seventeen years ago it was almost an empty shell with nothing but the views and the relics of old buildings. I saw the property for what it could be but didn’t want to detract from what already made it so special, it’s location and it’s history, but instead accentuate it. By working with what was already there I was able to create a space that transports people. Our property is only an hour from Melbourne CBD, but when you’re here it feels as though you could be much much further, with many exclaiming that when they are here they feel as though they are in Tuscany. All this to say that my proudest achievement in my role is having created a space that gives couples such a profound sense of joy that they fall in love with the property and choose to get married here.
Who is a woman that inspires you?
For me it is not one particular woman who inspires me, but all woman. Women overcome adversity that men can’t even imagine. It’s the norm and necessary for women to enter the workforce while still bearing the brunt of the child rearing and house work. It’s inspiring to me to see the bravery and strength that women display whilst facing these everyday challenges.
This year’s theme for international Women’s Day is “Inspire Inclusion”. What does this mean to you?
It’s important that everyone is treated equally. Everyone should be given equal opportunity regardless of which walk of life they came from.
If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, woman to woman, what would it be?
Allow yourself time for you. Have time where you can reflect on what’s important to you without distraction, otherwise you might just find that you’ve lost yourself along the way.
Caity Clarkson
Head of Sales (Weddings & Events)
What is your proudest achievement in your role?
Over the last couple of years, I have elevated our level of communication with clients from the first moment they contact us and have created step by step processes along the way to ensure they feel supported and have a clear understanding of what their wedding or event journey entails.
Who is a woman that inspires you?
My mother. She is the most positive person that I know and my greatest support. Her strength and resilience in life is inspirational.
This year the theme for International Women’s Day is “Inspire Inclusion”, what does this mean to you?
To me, it is all from the heart. Spreading love and kindness to those who surround you. Celebrating our differences and ensuring everyone feels valued, heard, and respected.
If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, woman to woman, what would it be?
Do not worry about the status quo. You never know where life will lead you, so enjoy the ride! It is such an exciting adventure filled with incredible experiences, all by keeping yourself open to opportunities and fostering beautiful relationships with those around you.
Tuyen Tran
Head of Weddings
What is your proudest achievement in your role?
I don’t just have one! I’m lucky enough to have a proud moment every day after a Stones wedding. My moment of achievement comes from seeing the culmination of months of preparation leading up to the day and then to see the couples faces as they live through and experiencing their hard work come to life brings a sense of fulfilment that I cherish daily. I’m also incredibly proud of how I landed in my current role, by transitioning through various roles within the wedding team. It’s wonderful to be to be able to actively contribute to multiple teams within the department, providing direct assistance to support each team member to be in an environment that helps them perform at their best, through lived through experiences in these said positions.
Who is a woman that inspires you?
Literally all the women that I have in my life currently. I don’t gravitate to people that I see on a screen or just heard about indirectly. I believe there is so much more to a woman strength through the experiences they’ve been through and the ones I’m inspired by are the ones I can reach out to and have a real-life conversation with. I am inspired by the feminine strength, and compassion that women portray through emotion.
This year the theme for International Women’s Day is “Inspire Inclusion”, what does this mean to you?
To me "Inspire Inclusion" for women means breaking barriers, encouraging diversity in leadership, and challenging stereotypes NOW. To inspire more women, to use their unique experiences to then create a norm where women from various backgrounds feel empowered to excel, fostering a safe environment that promotes their success without pre-determined gender-based limitations in life, workplaces, and relationships.
If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, woman to woman, what would it be?
Know your worth; don’t make yourself small to conform to an imagined mold. Success holds unique definitions for everyone and it’s important to keep this in mind and maintain a compassionate perspective.
Eunice Carswell
Head of Housekeeping
What is your proudest achievement in your role?
Throughout my role I have had faith in myself that I could grow with the business expanding over the past 10 years, and learn the value of integrity and loyalty.
Who is a woman that inspires you?
My beloved grandmother Ethel May. Mother of nine. Elegant. Capable. Kind. A great listener. A clever cook. She always had time to put the kettle on and welcome you with a cuppa and scones.
This year the theme for International Women’s Day is “Inspire Inclusion”, what does this mean to you?
To create and nourish a workplace culture that brings people together where they feel they belong, valued, and feel safe to contribute to the collective.
If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, woman to woman, what would it be?
Love yourself first.
Britta Thompson
Spa Manager
What is your proudest achievement in your role?
I’m so incredibly proud of our team.
Who is a woman that inspires you?
My sister.
This year the theme for International Women’s Day is “Inspire Inclusion”, what does this mean to you?
Elevate all women’s voices.
If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, woman to woman, what would it be?
You don’t have to fit the mold. Your difference is your power.
Carly Millar
Finance Manager
What is your proudest achievement in your role?
I’m incredibly proud of how I’ve progressed in my role throughout my 9 years at Stones. I started working casually in Meletos and as a single mum i was able to work my way through several roles before landing where I am now.
Who is a woman that inspires you?
My mum! She’s 65 years old and works harder than anyone I know. She’s currently working harvesting grapes for wine vintage, which is intense manual labour, just to go home and tend to her own farm. She’s a machine.
This year the theme for International Women’s Day is “Inspire Inclusion”, what does this mean to you?
The fact that we’re still discussing it and this is the theme for this year only highlights how much work we still have to do!
If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, woman to woman, what would it be?
Speak up more often, it will get you much further.
Aimee Pratesi
Head Chef
What is your proudest achievement in your role?
I’d have to say that actually achieving my role is my proudest moment. I started at the bottom and worked my way through the ranks slowly, to now being the one that makes the kitchen operate. That’s pretty cool! I’m proud to be the one who trains other kitchen staff just like how I was trained by past head chefs.
Who is a woman that inspires you?
My Nanna. She’s a fantastic woman who does lots of work with under privileged children. She was the inspiration for me to start my cooking career. I have fond memories from when I was young of making sausage rolls with her and of her making all my birthday cakes.
This year the theme for International Women’s Day is “Inspire Inclusion”, what does this mean to you?
Giving all cultures and people of all descriptions the same privileges that those not from marginalised communities can often take for granted. It’s important that we, in our workplace and further, remind everyone that this is something we’re striving for.
If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, woman to woman, what would it be?
Believe in yourself a bit more. Sometimes it’s good to be proud of yourself and your achievements. Don’t take things so hard and remember to be kind, everyone is going through battles.
Caity Reynolds
Marketing Officer
What is your proudest achievement in your role?
I’m proud everyday I come to work, it’s extremely gratifying being able to work closely with so many amazing people, the majority of those people being women.
Who is a woman that inspires you?
It’s hard to name just one woman who inspires me. I am incredibly grateful to have so many strong female influences in my life. A name that comes to mind is Dr. Rhiannon Neilsen, an academic whose research on genocide prevention has taken her all over the world. She is such a trail blazer and I am completely in awe of her. Of course, I could hardly mention women that inspire me and fail to mention my Mother and my Oma, two incredibly strong women that have both had huge influences in my life.
This year the theme for International Women’s Day is “Inspire Inclusion”, what does this mean to you?
To me it means undoing systematic biases that prevent the same opportunities being offered to those from marginalised communities that are constantly offered to those outside of those groups. It’s important that we recognise the imbalance in the way that those from marginalised groups are treated and that as a society take steps to rectify them. We still have a long way to go.
If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, woman to woman, what would it be?
Trust yourself and don’t be afraid to speak up for yourself and others.
Meletos | Winemaker of the Month, March & April 2024
Yeringberg Winery boasts a rich history spanning over 150 years, firmly establishing itself as a pioneer in the Yarra Valley winemaking scene. The journey began with the migration of Baron Frederic-Guillaume de Pury, from Switzerland to Australia in 1852. After working with other pioneering wineries in the region, he acquired 450 hectares of land in the central Yarra Valley in 1863. Here, he planted 32 hectares of vineyards and named the estate Yeringberg….
Yeringberg Winery boasts a rich history spanning over 150 years, firmly establishing itself as a pioneer in the Yarra Valley winemaking scene. The journey began with the migration of Baron Frederic-Guillaume de Pury, from Switzerland to Australia in 1852. After working with other pioneering wineries in the region, he acquired 450 hectares of land in the central Yarra Valley in 1863. Here, he planted 32 hectares of vineyards and named the estate Yeringberg.
Throughout the years, Yeringberg experienced both triumphs and challenges inherent in farming. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, the winery enjoyed significant success, garnering multiple international awards and exporting wine to the northern hemisphere. However, following the First World War, changing market demands led to a decline in demand for cool climate wines. In 1921, second generation winemaker, George de Pury, made the decision to remove all vineyards and shift focus to sheep and cattle farming.
Inspired by the legacy of Yeringberg wines, George’s son, Guill, embarked on the journey to revive the vineyard in 1969. Over the years, he steadily expanded plantings, reigniting the reputation of Yeringberg. Today, Sandra de Pury and her brother David,I oversee operations, with David managing the vineyard and livestock, while Sandra crafts the wines.
Yeringberg wines are renowned as "Classic Yarra Valley wines", reflecting a dedication to traditional winemaking practices. Embracing varieties and styles from the 1800s, such as Marsanne, Roussanne, Shiraz, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Bordeaux red varietals, we prioritise complexity, texture, and longevity. Their approach emphasises patience, with extended time in the vineyard, bottle ageing, and cellar maturation.
As the fifth-generation winemaker of the De Pury family, Sandra recognises the evolution of winemaking practices. While technology has enhanced efficiency, Yeringberg’s philosophy remains unchanged – prioritising elegance, finesse, and longevity in their wines.
On the wine list at Meletos for March and April, we feature their 2020 Viognier, 2018 Marsanne Roussanne, 2023 Rosé, and 2014 Shiraz. Each wine offers a unique expression of Sandra’s dedication to quality and tradition.
Sandra’s favourite way to enjoy a glass of Yeringberg wine is at the table, surrounded by friends and family. With three generations of de Purys residing on the property, sharing a bottle creates cherished memories and celebrates their heritage.
Why May is so special at Stones
May is one of the most breathtaking months on our property. Not only is the grass usually at its greenest as we slide into the cooler months, but the trees and vines also start to turn into a kaleidoscope of yellows and reds, providing a truly outstanding backdrop for wedding photography.
Over the past 16 years, we have often been asked the question, 'When is a good time of the year to get married at Stones of the Yarra Valley?' All decisions regarding your wedding are deeply personal, making it a challenging question to answer. However, we often find ourselves suggesting, 'Have you considered getting married in May?' This response can be met with some trepidation, but hear us out.
May is one of the most breathtaking months on our property. Not only is the grass usually at its greenest as we slide into the cooler months, but the trees and vines also start to turn into a kaleidoscope of yellows and reds, providing a truly outstanding backdrop for wedding photography
We asked our longtime friends, Lost in Love Photography, about their thoughts on May as wedding photographers. Having photographed their first wedding at Stones in 2016 and many since, Lost in Love has experienced all seasons on the property and confided that May is a particular favourite.
“We adore photographing Stones at any time of the year, but there is a particular beauty about Stones in May! The golden light streaming in through the chapel door when the bride/groom enter for the ceremony. The way the chapel door is shaded for the petal throw, which then creates the most flattering light for family photos or bridal party portraits in front of the chapel door. The grape vines turning golden. The chapel vines turning a deep crimson.”
In addition to the extraordinary colour palette, with the end of daylight saving time, the photo hour occurs during the best light of the day, allowing you to focus on celebrating with your loved ones during your reception. Lost in Love echoed this sentiment:
“The timing of the ceremony means the portrait session is generally during golden hour and right into dusk - the most romantic light of the day. The setting sun catches the tree tops and lights them up with a golden glow. The chapel windows are lit up during your portrait session. The sky often turns the most beautiful shades of pink in the Valley as winter gets closer. The Barn has an intimate warmth as the daylight fades and your guests enter, candle light flickering on the tables. The crisp country air means less people disperse outside and more people hit the dancefloor!”
While the weather in the Yarra Valley is unpredictable at any time of the year, there is a higher chance that the temperature in May will be lower than in the summer months. This might be considered a negative; however, if you’re wearing a wedding gown or a suit, the cooler weather may be a blessing. Without the scorching sun, you (and your guests) will likely be much more comfortable. At Stones, all of our indoor areas are heated, so if it’s a little brisk, we have you completely covered. In any case, the fashions are gorgeous in the colder months - the long-sleeved dresses, throws, removable sleeves, faux fur - all stunning additions to any bride’s ensemble.
We asked Lost In Love if they had any advice for couples trying to decide when to get married.
“When looking at wedding photos of your chosen venue and ask what time of year they were taken! Although in Melbourne you could get rain, hail or shine any time of the year, understanding what the grounds and light look like at different times of year could be super helpful!”
A huge thank you to Lost in Love Photography for chatting to us for this blog post. All images used are credited to them and you can view more on their socials. You can get in touch with them through their website.
If you need help deciding when to get married with us, get in touch! Our expert wedding team will be able to help you navigate when the best time would be for you to host your wedding. Reach out to us via email at weddings@stonesoftheyarravalley.com or phone us on 03 8727 3000.
Meletos | Winemaker of the Month, December 2023
Adrian and Rebecca Santolin, a formidable winemaking duo, have cultivated a unique journey in the world of viticulture, much like the vines they tend to. Adrian's roots in winemaking stretch back to his family's vineyard and orchard, established by his Italian immigrant grandfather. Immersed in Italian culture from a young age, wine became an integral part of Adrian's heritage. On the other hand, Rebecca initially set out to study fashion design in Melbourne but found herself drawn to the world of wine after moving to the NSW outback with her family when she was 17 years old. Fate led her to working in a local winery, where she met Adrian, sparking a love story intertwined with their shared passion for winemaking.
Adrian and Rebecca Santolin, a formidable winemaking duo, have cultivated a unique journey in the world of viticulture, much like the vines they tend to. Adrian's roots in winemaking stretch back to his family's vineyard and orchard, established by his Italian immigrant grandfather. Immersed in Italian culture from a young age, wine became an integral part of Adrian's heritage. On the other hand, Rebecca initially set out to study fashion design in Melbourne but found herself drawn to the world of wine after moving to the NSW outback with her family when she was 17 years old. Fate led her to working in a local winery, where she met Adrian, sparking a love story intertwined with their shared passion for winemaking.
Under the Santolin label, this dynamic duo expresses their creativity by producing Italian varietals, inspired by Adrian's rich Italian heritage. Their commitment to minimal intervention winemaking is evident in their unconventional techniques, such as leaving wine on its skins for added color and texture. The result is a portfolio of wines that reflects not only their craftsmanship but also the unique characteristics of the grapes they work with.
Since embarking on their winemaking journey in 2009, the Santolins have expanded their range, with each collection representing different facets of their personalities. The single vineyard wines showcase their serious side, emphasizing meticulous winemaking and exceptional fruit. In contrast, the Cosa Nostra range allows for experimentation and creativity, while the Little Saint range embodies their easy-going, cruisy side.
The heart of their winemaking philosophy lies in minimal intervention, Lo-Fi winemaking, and sustainable viticulture. Starting with exceptional fruit is the key, minimizing the need for extensive winemaking processes. This philosophy aligns with the belief that great wines should naturally reflect the unique characteristics of the grapes.
Being a family business, Adrian and Rebecca find a unique sense of accomplishment in creating something that bears their name and represents their hard work. Despite their differences in thinking and processing information, the collaborative effort allows them to complement each other, creating a harmonious balance, or finding a "middle ground" with Adrian adopting a Happy Life Happy Wife mantra.
The Santolins' commitment goes beyond crafting exceptional wines; it extends to a broader vision of responsibility and ethics in winemaking. Considering the impact on future generations, they aim to create a sustainable legacy that gives back to the local community, which has been instrumental in their growth and success.
Among their notable creations, the Il Capo and Friulano from the Cosa Nostra range showcase the Santolins' innovative approach. The Il Capo, inspired by Southern Italian reds, offers a medium-bodied, fruit-driven experience with savory undertones—a perfect companion for Italian dishes. The Friulano, fermented wild on its skins and aged in old oak, presents a rich, powerful, and funky profile with hints of herbs, wild grass, and subtle minerality.
Ultimately, the Santolins agree that the best way to enjoy their wines is with amazing food—a sentiment that reflects the Italian way of savoring life's pleasures. In each bottle of Santolin wine, the shared passion for winemaking and dedication to quality shine through, inviting enthusiasts to savor a unique and delightful experience.
Meletos | Winemaker of the Month, November 2023
Behn Payten and Troy Jones, the self-proclaimed only two (literate) graduates of Healesville High School in 1997, have maintained a lasting friendship that has defied the test of time. Their foray into winemaking began with a spontaneous idea while they were bartending together, serving pints of Coopers Green, trying to earn some extra summer pocket money.
This spur-of-the-moment idea has since transformed into one of the most distinctive and well-regarded wineries and cellar door precincts in the Yarra Valley. These two equally distinctive and charismatic individuals are the driving force behind this success story.
Payten & Jones describe their approach to winemaking as similar to that of their approach to underwear; “less is more” .They prioritise respecting the terroir where the grapes are grown and the grape varieties they work with, always striving to keep things simple. Even before minimal intervention winemaking gained widespread attention, Behn and Troy have always adopted the attitude and philosophy of ensuring that their practices are better for the next generation, and simply doing what’s right, in both winemaking and life in general.
While they are renowned for their iconic Yarra Valley wines, Behn and Troy's winemaking adventures extend beyond the Valley to the Spanish region of Priorat. There, they embrace the vintage tradition, craft exquisite Grenache (Garnacha), and immerse themselves in Spanish culture, cherishing late mornings and savoring vermouth.
This month, we are delighted to feature the 2023 VV Pinot Noir and the 2022 VV Chardonnay from Payten & Jones at Meletos. The Chardonnay, as described by Behn and Troy, strikes a balance between traditional flavour and texture with a touch of contemporary freshness, devoid of oak influence. The Pinot Noir shows a nose of raspberry liquorice and offers that same delightful flavour on the palate, culminating in a crisp, refreshing finish—a great representation of Yarra Valley Pinot Noir.
We asked Behn and Troy how they best enjoy Payten & Jones wines to which they answered in their typical humour
”Jonesy [Troy] has the Pinot whilst deciding what to drink, realising it’s what he wants to drink and then while choosing what to drink next.
Payto [Behn] loves a cheeky one when he’s got a pair of tongs in his other hand and is smelling of charcoal and reverse seared tomahawk fat.”
We’re really excited to be showcasing this Enigmatic Duo’s wines at Meletos for the month of November and look forward to sharing them with you.
Find out more about Payten & Jones at https://www.pj.wine/
Book a table at Meletos here.
Introducing Ernie's Bar
We are delighted to announce the official opening of Ernie’s Bar – a bar dedicated to the finer things in life. Located adjacent to the Meletos Cafe, Ernie’s Bar is the newest addition to the precinct – a place to unwind and enjoy a drink and a bite with friends old and new.
When we first took over the Meletos Brewhouse space in 2019, the plan was always to create a stunning bar for those wanting something casual yet classy: a place for friends and family to settle in for an afternoon of shared-plates, tasting-paddles and wines or for wedding guests dressed to the nines to enjoy a cheeky martini before the festivities kick off (and a cheekier negroni afterwards!).
Whilst it may have taken a little longer than expected thanks to a certain pandemic, we are incredibly excited to officially be opening the doors this weekend.
Your host at Ernie’s is the enigmatic John Yankovski, whose lifelong dedication to the art of whiskey has been utilised to its full potential in the curation of our drinks list. From handpicked Australian distilleries to renowned international producers – John has curated a selection of the world’s best whisk(e)y’s you’ll have a hard time finding anywhere else.
On top of this we, of course, have the full collection of Meletos Beers, which we recently launched following the arrival of our new brewer Jacob Turoy. The Meletos core range showcases a classic Italian Pilsner, IPA, Pale Ale and Draught. Also available are two limited edition beers made in collaboration with Devilbend Farm Beer, in honour of Oktoberfest.
If whiskey and beer is not your thing, our remarkable mixologist Giustino Della Vedova has worked closely with John to create a cocktail menu full of the classics, all with a cheeky Ernie’s spin!
We warmly welcome you to Ernie’s Bar and invite you to make yourself at home.
Ernie’s Bar is open Friday to Sunday from 11am onwards. Walk-ins only.
Meletos | Sunday Charity Nights, September 2023
Every month, as part of our ongoing commitment to our community here in the Yarra Valley, we feature a local organsiation and we donate 10% of Proceeds from Sunday Evenings at Meletos. In September, our hearts led us to support the wonderful cause of Animal Aid.
Our journey to Coldstream, where Animal Aid resides, unveiled not only the dedication of their staff and volunteers but also the profound impact that generous donors have on their mission.
Amid the evolving landscape of the post-pandemic world, a trend has emerged: the slower adoption rates of puppies. With more people returning to traditional work environments, there has been a decline in the amount of puppy adoptions. This shift has had a ripple effect, extending to breeders who are now faced with surplus puppies and, consequently, overflowing shelters, many housing purebred puppies in need of loving families
Further adding to their challenges, Animal Aid has observed a transformation in the timing of "kitten season." Typically expected in mid-spring, the organisation now experiences a constant influx of kittens throughout the year.
One thing did become immediately clear to us throughout our visit to Animal Aid. Kittens and puppies, with their boundless energy and zest for life, are quite difficult to photograph.
We chose Animal Aid for our September Charity in order to give the animals the best possible chance at a happy life. By visiting us at Meletos on Sunday evenings you can enjoy a meal knowing that you’re helping a worth cause. Book your table here.
If you’d like to help Animal Aid check out their website, who knows, you may even leave with a new best friend.
Meletos | Winemaker of the Month, September 2023
Spring has finally sprung, and for September our Winery of the Month is none other than Thick as Thieves.
Our Winery of the Month concept began as an effort to highlight the wonderful work and wines being produced right here in our own backyard and has evolved into a month long celebration ending in a winery take-over event. Keep an eye out for more information on this event as we near the end of the month.
Syd Bradford initially started Thick as Thieves as a virtual operation in 2009, buying in fruit and renting wine making facilities, and after years of hard work, he finally achieved every winemaker's dream and purchased the Cypress Ridge vineyard in 2012. This gave Thick as Thieves not only a permanent home base and security that allowed for the growth of the business, but also the inheritance of mature Pinot vines that have come to produce the fruit for the esteemed Thick as Thieves premium pinot noirs.
As a self proclaimed ‘one man show’ from tending the vines, crafting the wines, marketing and selling the products, Syd has the freedom to create wines and wine styles that he enjoys himself and feels creatively inclined towards. Ever known for crafting unique and experiential varieties of wine, Syd aims to make wines that are textural, fruit driven and savory, that are innovative and interesting to drink. Syd feels that through experimentation, while also embracing and acknowledging seasonal differences, he is able to keep his wines on people's radar, while also ensuring he is still producing quality, lively wines.
To showcase the innovative nature of Thick as Thieves, and Syd himself, we have selected the 2023 Arneis and 2022 Gamay to feature this month here at Meletos. Having recently won ‘Best other white variety or blend’ at the Yarra Valley Wine Show, Syd describes the Arnies as a textural, medium-bodied, barrel fermented white, that just screams out for perfect food pairing.
The 2022 Gamay is a beautiful light bodied red, with a lovely savory earthiness to it, and fine grainy tannins that can be chilled coming into the summer months.
The name ‘Thick as Thieves’ eventuated from Syd finding out the true meaning of the phrase after years of misunderstandings. He instantly pictured ‘best buddies’ sharing all their secrets over a glass of wine. So we invite you to find your partner in crime, and come down to Meletos to enjoy a lively glass of Syd’s wine and some equally delicious food, as according to Syd, the best way to enjoy a glass is with your best friends.
Find out more about Syd and Thick as Thieves at https://tatwines.com.au/
Book a table at Meletos here.
Meletos | Winemaker of the Month, June 2023
Another month, another fantastic winery we are celebrating here at Meletos. This month, we are featuring wines produced by the local Warramunda Estate.
Although the owners of Warramunda, Robert and Irene, hailed initially from the hospitality industry, their one true passion has always been wine. They purchased Warramunda in 2007, along with their daughter Liv, and produced their first vintage in 2013. In one word, Robert describes his winemaking style as intuitive, letting the final product be led by instinct and vision. Robert, along with his daughter Liv, aim to create wines that are bespoke, handcrafted wines that are truly reflective of the specific qualities of the Coldstream site, vineyard, and fruit they produce. They operate their business and vineyard with sustainability front of mind, from their viticulture practices, to how they produce their wines with minimal intervention. Being a family owned winery, it has always been Robert and Irene’s intention for their daughter Liv to eventually take over Warramunda Estate, while also continuing to produce wine under her own label ‘Liv Zak’. Liv Zak wines gives Liv the opportunity to produce small volume, unique wines that are made with excitement and energy, contrasted to the Warramunda Estate wines which are made in a more classic and traditional style.
Robert speaks with knowledge, enthusiasm and love when it comes to his wines and vineyard. It was a true delight to have him come in and talk with our staff about his beautiful wines. The feature wines we chose this month were the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon and the 2018 Viognier. Robert describes both wines as passion wines, and wines made from the heart. The Cabernet Sauvignon was handpicked, naturally fermented with wild yeasts, and in barrel for 18 months. Robert highlights the precise balance this wine has, between the tannins, acidity, and alcohol, the wine is beautifully harmonious on the palate. One can expect a violetty, floral nose, dark fruits on the palate as well as clove and cedar, and a lovely earthy length. The 2018 Viognier, similarly handpicked, pressed to barrel, to all old oak. Left on lees for 6 months before bottling, this viognier is slightly waxy and dry, with a medium acidity but holds onto its lovely floral palate.
Robert believes that a glass of Warramunda Estate Wines is best enjoyed after a hard day work, with friends over some great food, and a cuban cigar, and whilst we can’t make any promises on the cuban cigar, we here at Meletos can promise a delicious meal, a glass of Robert’s lovely wine, and all you have to do is bring your friends.
Click here to book a table at Meletos!
For more information on Warramunda Estate and Liv Zak, head to their website: https://warramundaestate.com.au/
Meletos | Winemaker of the Month, April - May 2023
Here at Meletos, each month, we select a local Yarra Valley winery to highlight on our wine list. This is to acknowledge the wonderful work of some local icons and showcase the incredible wines being produced by some of the wineries in the stunning region we call home.
This past month, we have celebrated the wines, and works of Dominic Valentine of Valentine Wines. After his time spent learning the art of Riesling from winemakers in the German region of Rheingau, he came back inspired to create similarly textured and layered wines, but with a uniquely Australian interpretation, and so Valentine Wines was born. Dom seeks to produce wines that truly reflect the year and season in which they were grown, and that honor the area and site in which they are produced. We selected his iconic Riesling and rich Grenache as our feature wines this month. Dom describes the riesling as a layered, textural beast of a wine. Barrel & stainless steel fermented, combined with some skin contact creates a zesty, zingy riesling that brings a grippy mouthfeel allowing the length of flavor to linger on the palate. The Grenache, as he would describe it, is identified by its highly unique tannin structure. Picking the fruit earlier to retain natural acidity, along with some whole bunch pressing, this grenache gives bright red fruits, complemented by the combination of acidity and tannins.
Dom is one of those people you meet that is just so keen to share their knowledge and passion for all things wine. His own passion for wine, and wine making was ignited in Margaret River, with his time spent working in some well known wineries and under the mentorship of some industry greats. He acknowledges the great influence these mentors had in fostering his passion for wine and the wine industry. Dom now generously fosters others' passion for wine through industry events, even kindly offering his knowledge, story and time to our staff here at Meletos, of which we are so appreciative.
Dom believes wine is best enjoyed over good food and with good friends. His wines are made with the thought, desire and intention to compliment a beautifully and lovingly prepared meal, one that has been created in the effort of providing an experience for the guests.
So, come join us at Meletos, for a glass of Dom’s delicious wine, a lovely meal, and let us create a beautiful experience for you and your guests.
Happy International Womens Day
International Women's Day is a globally recognised day that is observed on the 8th of March every year. The day is celebrated to recognise the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women across the world. It is also a day to raise awareness about the ongoing struggles and challenges that women face in achieving gender equality and empowerment.
The theme for International Women's Day varies each year, with recent themes focusing on issues such as gender parity, women's rights, and women's leadership. This year, however, the focus is on embracing equity.
International Women's Day is an important reminder that gender equality is essential for the progress and development of societies worldwide. It is a call to action for everyone to work towards creating a more equal and just world for all genders.
In honour of this significant day, we sat down with some of the incredible women that keep Stones of the Yarra Valley and Meletos running so seamlessly.
Let us introduce you…
We asked our Creative Director Vonnie and some of our wonderful team, Fiona, Teesha, Blon and Rebecca some questions about being a woman and the importance of International Womens Day. To our team, this is not only important to get to know the wonderful women that we work with, but to highlight how incredible it is to be a woman and what we can do as we strive for equity.
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Vonnie: Starting with an 1860s derelict abandoned Barn in 2005, we were able to create a beautiful wedding venue that I am so incredibly proud of. We had a crazy dream and through a lot of blood, sweat and tears (and then more tears), we have achieved our dream. We then continued to build The Stables, Meletos, The Farmhouse, The Providore, The Dayroom and No7.
Fiona: I love the moment just before the bride walks down the aisle. I love the intimacy and the anticipation. It’s a privilege to open The Chapel doors and see the ceremony unfold perfectly.
Rebecca: Working through post-Covid times in the Private & Corporate Events world (along with the rest of the world). I had postponements, cancellations, new bookings and so many other factors to work through whilst rebuilding our team. It was a fast-paced work environment and there was always something exciting happening behind the scenes and we all got through it.
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Vonnie: Without doubt my proudest moments as a woman was to have 3 fantastic children. My sons are adults now, and I have always felt that as a mother I know I will always love them no matter what, but to be able to say that I really like them as people is a great achievement that I’m very proud of.
Fiona: Moving to the Middle East solo in my twenties. Doing the Oxfam 100km walk in less than 24 hours and of course giving birth to three incredible humans! There are also little daily moments that bring me joy.
Teesha: As well as my own achievements, I really enjoy watching other women achieve their goals, often through challenging circumstances. We are so strong when we build each other up with support and encouragement.
Rebecca: Without a doubt my two beautiful children Mason & Connor. Being a mum brings a whole new meaning to your world.
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Vonnie: Women who can juggle a busy growing family, a partner, and be able to come to work with a beautiful happy disposition, like our Fiona, inspire me immensely.
Fiona: Creatively - Vonnie, Teesh, Kate and Tali from The Providore are my inspiration! Their floral installations are so breathtaking and always so unique!
In life, it’s the single mothers of our world - they are the ultimate heroes of life.
Blon: I think one woman who I find inspiring is Reece Witherspoon. Whilst best known for being an actress, and starring in the hit rom-com Legally Blonde, she is a fierce woman's advocate and businesswoman. Noticing a huge, and unequal gap in the market for women's stories being ignored in film she began her own production company that focused on making productions centred around strong female roles and stories - as she has said "if you want something done, you have to do it yourself". She played a major role in both the #metoo and #askhermore movements which focus on taking a stand against sexual assault in the workplace and sexist reporting. She encourages women to work hard for what they want, to be ambitious and to be the change they want to see.
I admire her ambition as a businesswoman, her refusal to be underestimated, and her willingness to consistently raise other women up, highlighting the inequality faced by women and constantly fighting for better.
Rebecca: Honestly, working here with so many incredible women at Stones/Meletos. 90% of our departments are headed by incredibly inspirational women; Finance, Wedding Planning, Styling, Sales, Marketing, Housekeeping, and HR, all of these women are so inspiring!
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Vonnie: I try to be positive and to keep believing in myself - this empowers me to continue through the busy and frantic days of weddings. People notice this. The women of the world have a kindred spirit - and when all else fails a very big hug and a good cry helps us all.
Fiona: I stay connected, I notice subtle changes, I always check in and I like to laugh even when times are tough, you just have to find light in the darkness.
Rebecca: Staying positive & building each other up is so important to stick together.
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Vonnie: It is simply an acknowledgment of how great we all are. We all need to continue to multi task our way through life with a smile and a positive mind, and maybe a glass or two of wine.
Fiona: This is a complex question and ultimately I hope we don’t need a dedicated day for this. Women are powerful and enduring - they are entitled to equality, safety, success and freedom. By raising awareness and telling the stories of ordinary and extraordinary women, we can be hopeful for the future.
Blon: I think it's important to celebrate International Women's Day to look back on how far the women's rights movement has come, to acknowledge the women in the world and within our lives that fight for change and to remind ourselves to continue supporting each other, and fighting for better within our own lives, and for women everywhere.
Teesha: It's great to celebrate being a woman now and important to acknowledge those who have come before us to pave the way for ourselves and the Women of the future.
Rebecca: Women are a force to be reckoned with. We are fierce, adaptable, smart, loyal, intelligent, and caring just to name a few. What's not to celebrate?
To our entire female team, thank you for being you! We would love to hear from you - leave a comment on the blog below with your answers to these questions or send us a message on Instagram at @stonesoftheyarravalley.
Happy International Womens Day!
By Georgia Watson, Marketing Coordinator
Behind the Flowers | Sassafras Weddings
We are sure you have seen one of their revered floral installations, but have you seen the faces behind the brand, Sassafras Weddings?
Founders (and partners), Jess & Matt have mastered balancing a successful business, married life, and a family of four beautiful children. We had the pleasure of sitting down with both of them for a candid look behind the curtain of one of Melbourne’s best wedding florists.
Jess and Matt’s love story began 18 years ago when they were introduced through mutual friends. Since that day they were inseparable and together have created a full life, and now with 4 children, a loving family.
When we asked the talented duo to paint a picture of their wedding, they paused, looked at each other, and laughed. Not only did Jess do the florals for her own wedding, but also three others that same day!! This is a true testament to Jess's passion and dedication to her craft.
Jess made her way onto the floristry scene 25 years ago, starting as a junior at David Jones Florist and assisting with the Spring Flower Shows. It was here, Jess fell in love with the creative process, using flowers as a medium to build out spaces and watch her creativity bring joy to others. This was a pivotal point in Jess's career that sparked her desire to one day, create her own floristry business.
This dream became a reality 13 years ago when Sassafras Weddings was born. While working her day job in corporate florals, Jess began working weddings on weekends from her spare room. Matt became the “alpha parent”, looking after their beautiful children and helping Jess with flowers after work.
Fast forward to the present day, Jess and Matt both work full time at Sassafras Weddings, with two warehouses side by side expanding over 400 sqm. Together, they have created a comfortable and happy space in which their team can thrive and shine. With Jess’ eye for design and Matt’s background in visual art and horticulture, they are a powerhouse in the floral industry.
By working and raising their family in the Yarra Valley, Jess and Matt have been able to create a special bond with the region, along with its wedding venues and couples. All product is sourced from local markets, wholesalers, and farms. Keeping in line with their sustainability practice, the team at Sassafras Flowers recycles, composts, and reduces waste where possible by using reusable vessels and structures wherever possible.
Wedding advice with Jess
Jess did her first wedding at Stones of the Yarra Valley 12 years ago and has continued to be a significant part of our weddings since. We asked the experts what advice they had for our future couples at Stones.
What advice would you have for couples that are planning their wedding?
Once you have chosen your vendors, trust them and their expertise. Let them do what they do best and be open to allowing their experience to guide you. Also, trust your instincts as couples usually go back to their first ideas.
What are some planning points about floristry specifically that couples should note?
Don’t be overly prescriptive regarding the brief and overall design. We suggest being open with communication and allowing your florist to take creative control in bringing your brief to life. One week before the wedding, we will leave time to source different varieties of seasonal availability which is probably the most magical part of the process and where we have created the most 'wow' factor moments.
What is your favourite thing about working at Stones?
We absolutely love the aesthetics of Stones and how beautifully they align with ours. There are endless ways to design the space using scope and scale, so we can express our creative flare in so many ways. Even if it’s something simple and classic or the other end of the scale, it always works so magnificently. We also love the people. The team is so welcoming, warm, professional, and kind, and their attention to detail is wonderful. We can trust that the tables will be set beautifully and curated to perfection. It feels great to be supported by the Stones team to collaborate and create something magical for the couples.
What is your favourite backdrop at Stones for photo opportunities?
We would have to say inside The Chapel where we can build an installation under the arch windows. The back of The Chapel also allows for endless beautiful installations and photography.
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When asked if there was anything else they wanted to talk about, Matt paused, he said he would just want to talk more about how great Jess is. And their advice to couples? Don’t lose your sense of humour. Always be able to laugh with your partner, and always check in with one another.
A beautiful couple and an incredible team to collaborate with. Thank you, Jess and Matt!
Sarah & Nick - February 15, 2020
For Sarah & Nick, the importance of marriage was at the forefront of their wedding celebrations from as early as the planning stages. If at times things got a little stressful, they reminded themselves of what the day was about - the start of their marriage and the next chapter of their life together. Having decided that Stones of the Yarra Valley was the venue for them even before Nick popped the question, they knew their day would be what dreams are made of, despite the unseasonal February down pour!
How did you meet?
Sarah
We had some mutual friends so we knew of each other, but only officially met when we were on Schoolies in Lorne in 2009. We became friends for a few months before Nick finally asked me out one Friday night at Perseverance. We always tell people who are nervous about sending their kids to schoolies that there are some great things to come from going... you just might meet your future husband or wife!
Tell us about the proposal
Nick
I surprised Sarah with a random lunch in the Yarra Valley, not far from Stones, she didn’t see it coming and that was the point. She is a little bit of a control freak and would have liked to plan her own proposal.
I proposed at the end of the lunch, perfect timing for photos over the vineyard as the sun set.
Sarah
Nick organised lunch one Saturday in the Yarra Valley. I thought it was just a casual lunch, so I was running super late. I think Nick rescheduled the lunch about three times. At the end of the lunch he proposed, and I was so shocked, I think my first words were “do my parents know!”. He definitely caught me off guard. It was the perfect surprise and a moment I will never forget.
Tell us a little about the planning process
Sarah
Nick is an accountant and I love planning events and parties so, between us, we had all the excel spreadsheets you can imagine for the wedding. We booked Stones first then our videographer, Moon and Back and our photographer, Theodore and Co, because we knew we wanted them and didn’t want to miss out. We then booked in all our other suppliers quite a while out from the wedding. By booking everyone early, it really gave us the opportunity to build some amazing relationships with all the suppliers who by the end genuinely felt like friends - we still keep in touch with quite a few of them!
Nick
Sarah did 98% and I paid the invoices. But really we made all the decisions and met with the vendors together. We made sure that both of us were really comfortable with all the suppliers we picked.
What made you choose Stones of the Yarra Valley?
Sarah
Even before we were engaged, we knew we wanted to have our wedding at Stones. We always loved going there for lunch so it was the easiest decision we made, we didn’t even look at any other venues.
Nick
We had been to Stones many times and so it was an easy decision for us. We always knew we would get married there.
What were some of your favourite moments/details on the day?
Sarah
It is so hard to pick! We always say our wedding day was the best day of our lives. You just can't explain the feeling of having everyone you love from all the parts of your life in one room. One of my favourite moments of the day that not many people know about was when Nick and I exited to the balcony of The Chapel at the end of the ceremony. Watching all of our loved ones exit the chapel and having a moment to soak in the time on our own, with no cameras or anyone around, was just so special. We shed a tear or two up there and it was the most special moment for just the two of us to enjoy. It was one of the best moments of the day (and my life!).
Nick
I really can’t pick one favourite thing. The whole day was perfect. I really liked having everything in the one spot; The Chapel, The Dairy, the reception. Our guests didn’t have to travel far and it meant the celebrations just continued all night.
Were there any traditions that were important to incorporate?
As we both come from Catholic upbringings, it was important for us and our families that we had a Catholic Ceremony. Father Mark Reynolds conducted the mass and it was the perfect blend of tradition but at the same time, we were able to realise our dream of having the ceremony in the Stones Chapel.
Are there any funny stories or near disasters?
When we booked our wedding in February, we imagined it to be a very hot summers day, I even organised a gelato cart. It had also been a really hot and dry summer that year too with lots of bushfires. I remember doing our last venue visit and it was so hot and dry at Stones. When the day of our wedding came around, it was the most unseasonably cool and wet February day and it rained the entire day! It made for some beautiful lush and green photos and you really can enjoy gelato in any weather.
Do you have any advice for couples who are currently planning their weddings
Sarah
Try and enjoy the process. At times, it can get stressful but just remind yourself of what the wedding is about - the start of your marriage and this next chapter of your life together. It is easy to get caught up in the little things but in hindsight, no one remembers the candles you had on the table, they remember the love that they all felt in the room.
Nick
You will never regret picking Stones for your wedding venue!
Any words of wisdom on marriage?
Sarah
I remember my father-in-law saying in his speech “marriage is not always easy” and I think that is really true. It isn’t always easy but we always say that our relationship is number one. No matter how busy we are, how crazy family life is, we always make sure our relationship is rock solid. We also always get through the hard times by making each other laugh, no matter what.
Nick
Treat each day as a new adventure together. No matter if it’s good, bad or ugly, you can get through it all together.
What does life look like now?
The world (and our lives) have really changed since our wedding day back in 2020. We narrowly managed to have a honeymoon in the US and Mexico in February/March and came back just as the world was changing. Since then we have brought our family home, renovated and this year welcomed our beautiful son, Oscar, into the world. He really is the best thing that has ever happened to us.
We can't wait to take Oscar to Stones someday soon, it will always hold a special place in our family's heart.
Vendors:
Celebrant: Father Mark Reynolds
Photographer: Theodore and Co
Videographer: Moon & Back Co
Florist: Rita Feldmann Flowers
Band/DJ: Tobi Tobi & Baker boys band
Dress: Suzanne Harward
Introducing Guest Relations Agent - Ryley Brown
Guest Relations Agent, Ryley Brown, believes everything happens for a reason. She applied for many jobs after graduating with a Bachelor of Hotel Management degree at Blue Mountains International Hotel Management School and after coming across the Stones of the Yarra Valley website by chance, she thought to herself “why not, let’s apply”! Four years later, aren’t we glad she did!
Riley came to the property for the first time with a passionate outlook and little knowledge on where this new path would take her. Although, with her background in Hotel Management, it wasn’t long before her talents and industry knowledge were recognised and she wound up as an integral part of our amazing team within The Farmhouse at Meletos. Ryley describes the hospitality industry as energetic and fun to be involved in and told us she loves the fact that every day is different.
We sat down in front of the warmth of The Farmhouse fireplace to chat to Ryley a little more about life at Stones.
What gets you out of bed in the morning?
I’m motivated to get up and go to work every day to be part of a wonderful team environment, at such a stunning venue. After working here for nearly four years, I feel very confident in the knowledge I have and comfortable with the role I have in the workplace.
How would you describe your day job to a child?
My job is to welcome guests to The Farmhouse hotel, check them into their room here, describe information about our beautiful property and assist them with any needs they have during their stay.
What is your biggest achievement to date – personal or professional?
I am very proud of the three years I dedicated to studying as this has led me to the great job I have today. With this background in Hotel Management, it has allowed my career to progress and be recognised for my talents and knowledge within the industry.
What three words you use to describe your role?
Guest- focused, problem solving, attention to detail.
If you could switch jobs with someone, who would it be?
If I could switch jobs with someone, it would be Ellen DeGeneres, as I would love to sit down with all different and unique people from across the world and hear about their life stories. She also does great philanthropy work to many worthy causes and I would love to be as kind and generous as her.
What do you like most about your job?
There are many things I love about my job, including meeting so many people and welcoming them to The Farmhouse. I love when guests come to the property for the first time and they are in awe of how beautiful the buildings and scenery are. I also enjoy having wedding couples staying with us and seeing how happy and excited they are for the upcoming events they will share on the property. It’s always nice when a couple return years later for an anniversary stay and they tell us stories from their special wedding day.
What advice would you give to recent new entrants?
Give time to settle in, the fast-paced environment of this property can be overwhelming at first however once you find your place in the team you can really shine and enjoy coming to work everyday.
If you're thinking of a Spring escape to the Yarra Valley, look no further than The Farmhouse at Meletos. Surrounded by acres of vineyards, apple orchards and the blue-tinged Great Dividing Range, The Farmhouse is the perfect place to stay, dine, recharge and unwind this Spring.
Meet Meletos Chef - Min Kao
With only four units left of his engineering degree, people are shocked to hear that Meletos chef Min Kao woke up one morning and asked himself “Do I really want to become an engineer, or am I just doing this to meet my parents’ expectations?” Throughout his time at university, Min worked in the hospitality industry. He soon came to the realisation that he was truly inspired by the people he worked closely with.
It wasn’t long before he enrolled in a commercial cookery course at William Angliss Institute. To mark this decision, Min bought himself an expensive watch as a reminder that from now on, he will take responsibility for his life decisions. After three years working at Meletos, Min doesn’t regret a thing.
When he’s not at work or spending precious time with his new baby boy, his downtime is spent enjoying video games, basketball, going to the gym and lots & lots of bubble tea!
We grabbed a moment with Min to find out more about his life.
You have recently had a beautiful baby boy, congratulations! - How are you doing?
I'm doing great! It has been life-changing in how I see the world and other people. I’m definitely becoming more patient and putting myself into other people's shoes when I see them with their kids.
How did becoming a chef change your life and your direction?
Cooking is a life skill. Being a professional at this skill not only changes the way I cook, but it also changes the way I cook for others, especially the ones I love. It’s added another way for me to express myself.
What was your first job in food? How old were you?
I remember it was one of the bubble tea shops in Box Hill. I was 16 at the time, and had no idea that it would be the start of my hospitality career!
What is your favourite thing about being a chef?
There are many things I love about it! Experiencing different food cultures, working with new ingredients, or learning and designing a new dish. Most importantly, I love seeing the customer finish the whole plate and give compliments to the chef!
Best advice you ever received?
Cook with your brain, not with your hands!
What’s the strangest thing you’ve ever eaten?
Lamb brain - it was one of the dishes I tried when I studied at William Angliss. Don’t ask me how it tasted though because it was so bad it caused memory loss!
Your favourite ingredient, why and how would you use it?
Onion - because it’s so versatile. You can cook it in so many ways and it works in so many dishes. The way I cook them the most would be either sauté or in soups and stocks.
What would you like to do before you get too old to do it?
Travel around the world to experience different food cultures. I believe that every plate tells a story.
Please give us a cooking tip that people might not know like “adding a little bit of oil to butter so it doesn’t burn.”
If you want your sauce or puree to look vivid green, blend in spinach to make it look greener.
What/who inspired you to get into the kitchen?
I would probably say it was the chef/owner of the restaurant I used to work at during my time at uni. He said “being a chef, you never need to worry that one day your family will be hungry because you will always be able to put something on the plate for them”.
What’s your go-to meal to cook at home when you’re entertaining?
Noodles are one of my favourite foods. They can create a quick 15 minute stir fry or you can take your time and make a 2 day bone broth Tonkotsu ramen.
Most under-appreciated ingredient home chefs often overlook?
Oil - people cook everything with it but not everyone knows how to use different oils in different situations. You can also infuse it in so many ways with different ingredients
Alive or dead, who would you invite to your dream dinner party, and what would you cook? Why?
My grandma and my mum - these are the two people who cooked most of my meals when I was young so I would love to cook their favourite dishes!
And finally, a piece of advice for young up-and-coming chefs?
Your passion will burn off one day so always look for a new way to reignite that passion. Work every day as if it’s your first day.
Morana & Nicholas - 8th November, 2018
Tell us about your proposal…
Nicholas proposed atop a mountain in Queenstown, while heliskiing, and followed by a picnic in the snow. It was just picturesque. I said yes!
What's the best piece of planning advice you can share?
Relax and enjoy the process. Planning one of the happiest days of your life should not be stressful.
What was the inspiration for the look and feel of your day?
Our vision for the day was an intimate celebration with family and friends. Zoe from I Heart Flowers did a spectacular job at creating a lavish, yet natural and effortless, vibe.
We had very few formalities (no MC, no first dance and only 2 speeches, which were given by Nicholas and I). Instead we kicked the night off with a champagne tower, enjoyed a delicious four-course dinner followed by four-courses of dessert, and danced the night away to Tobi Tobi and the very lively Opa! brass brand.
What was it about Stones of the Yarra Valley that made you choose us?
We live in Sydney and wanted to marry interstate to allow for a getaway wedding that was a destination but one not too far from home. Stones of the Yarra Valley was just perfect! Surrounded by vineyards and oak trees, we immediately fell in love with the property and its charming Tuscan-feel chapel. We also loved that it offers accommodation on the property and a stunning (very spacious and deliciously catered!) bridal house to get ready in.
From the available restaurants, we chose the smaller (and more intimate) restaurant, The Stables, which allowed us to have one very long table. There was something so warm and familial about dining at a single long table with all our 35 guests.
Stones of the Yarra Valley was truly the perfect destination.
What did you think would be your favourite part of the day? What did it end up being?
The ceremony, which was held in the charming chapel on the property, was definitely a favourite part of the day. The moment I saw Nicholas and our closest family and friends, while Tobi Tobi played Can’t Help Falling in Love with you, was my highlight.
What did you splurge on? What did you save on?
We splurged on the entire day! My other advice is, when your husband gives you a budget… use the budget as a starting point! ; )
What does marriage mean to you?
Kindness. Friendship. More kindness. And love, of course.
Where are you now? Living, career, family?
Next week we will be celebrating our son’s 1st birthday! Mark arrived on Remembrance Day 2019, missing our 1-year anniversary by only a few days! His arrival was that moment when everything in the world makes sense.
Vendors:
Photographer: Chloe May
Videographer: Apertura
Flowers & Styling: I Heart Flowers (Zoe Webb)
Music: Tobi Tobi
Gown: Monique Lhuillier (Helen Rodrigues).
Rings: Cerrone
Meet Stones of the Yarra Valley Sous Chef - Ryan Smith
We’re pretty lucky that Sous Chef, Ryan Smith (AKA Smitty), walked into the kitchen at Stones of the Yarra Valley 11 years ago and never looked back.
Unlike most, Ryan’s passion to become a chef didn’t come from the desire to create great food, but from a moment during work experience at his cousin’s restaurant on Chapel Street. Smitty watched another chef put an oyster shucker through her hand and thought, "hey, this would be a cool profession". It wasn’t long afterward that Smitty was accepted for his apprenticeship at Olinda's Pig and Whittle at the young age of 17!
As an upbeat and optimistic guy, Smitty's calm nature is both contagious and comforting when working in a high-pressure kitchen. During work, you’ll find that he has a prep list in his head, and from the moment he walks into the kitchen, Smitty loves pushing himself and his team to be more efficient, and 'beat' the times they had set the previous week. Did we mention he loves sport, and a bit of friendly competition?
Outside of work, Ryan's life is just as busy! With his gorgeous wife-to-be, Alana, and 3 children there is little downtime throughout the week. His daily activities include being a very prestigious chauffeur to his little ones, nap time aficionado, play time conductor, dinner, then bath and bed; all whilst imparting all of his 'Smitty-isms'!
Despite the beautiful chaos surrounding him, Smitty still manages to make the workplace fun, exciting and educational for his colleagues. When asked what was on his wish list for the next five years at Stones, Smitty answered “I would love to teach the up-and-coming Chefs about my love for this place and why I have kept coming back to work each day for the last eleven years”.
We got the opportunity to sit down with Smitty, to talk about work, his passions, and some of life’s guilty pleasures!
What gets you out of bed in the morning?
My kids, but I’m also a big advocate of every day you wake up is a good day.
How would you describe your day job to a child?
You know how The Wiggles make fruit salad, that's what I do, lots and lots of different fruit salads.
What is your biggest achievement to date – personal or professional?
Becoming a father.
If you could switch jobs with someone, who would it be?
Bear Grills, I'd love two days in the wilderness, living off the land, challenging myself to survive.
What are your biggest professional challenges?
To really become someone my kids are proud of.
What advice would you give to recent new entrants?
Don't take yourself too seriously, there is so much to learn. Nobody knows everything.
What’s your most memorable facepalm moment?
I would have to say, asking a kitchen hand to wash my oysters and they put them through the dishwasher!
Given a chance, who would you like to be for a day?
I would like to be a kid again.
What is your guilty pleasure?
Sour lollies
What is your favourite thing about being a chef?
The ability to be able to make people happy by delivering them an experience of the senses!
Best advice you ever got?
Soar like an eagle and don’t quack like a duck
Who inspired you to get into the kitchen?
It’s not who inspired me to get into the kitchen, but who inspired me once I was in the kitchen. It was Mr Hugh Davison, you might know him?! He believed that I had something inside me, he pushed me, tormented me, and made me work. But, he always cared, helped, inspired, and pushed me to be the best that I could! Most things I’ve learned in a kitchen, are from him!
Merve & Lucas - January 29th 2022
As wedding photographers themselves, Merve and Lucas took inspiration for their day from many of the past couples whose weddings they had photographed over the years. With a vision of having a wedding that was simple, elegant and warm, Lucas knew Stones of the Yarra Valley was exactly the right place. It was a day filled with beautiful emotion as their culturally and religiously different families came together and with a a tribe of their dream suppliers, there is not a moment of this day you won’t adore.
HOW DID YOU MEET?
We met exactly 6 years ago at the Portsea Hotel on Australia Day weekend. We actually coincidently booked our wedding the same weekend 6 years later. Weird.
We never exchanged numbers and we didn't really know a lot about each other but the following week, I bumped into him at a club. We never had intentions on being together at the time and jokingly even said "don't fall in love to each other" and here we are. We couldn't have fallen any harder.
WHO PROPOSED AND HOW?
Like everyone else in the year of 19’, we had dreams of travelling to Europe. It was actually my first year of booking international weddings as a wedding photographer, and both of us are super business savvy people where we put our hearts and souls into what we love doing most, so this was going to be the perfect excuse to make a holiday out of it. I had one in Turkey, in Italy, New York and also Bali. Lucas had plans to propose in Notting Hill as it's one of my favourite movies, however due to the pandemic, we didn't have a lot of travelling options. We're not overly romantic people where we over-plan for things and make it an extravagant thing to be honest, and once we realised we weren't getting out of lockdown any time soon, he proposed in our kitchen while I was in my robe when we had 8:00pm curfews. I had just done my nails at the time, and jokingly I was recording and saying to him "I'm ready for that ringgggg" and at the time he said to me “oh are you recording, keep recording" and next thing I knew was he was pulling out a ring and I was yelling "OMG SHUT UP, ARE YOU SERIOUS. NO WAY!!!!!" So technically I still haven't said yes to his proposal. I took the ring and ran for my life.
Tell us a little about the planning and design process...
When we had gotten engaged, we were in lockdown and the last thing I wanted to do was to think about our own wedding so we booked exactly a year and 10 months before the big day, so that I was able to concentrate on our couples weddings, especially with so many postponed weddings at the time. I also booked all of our suppliers roughly a year and 10 months out from our wedding. I knew that if I wanted to book the people I really wanted to work with, I had to get onto it straight away. Fortunately and unfortunately enough, great wedding suppliers tend to book out quite far in advance. Once everything was booked in, I spent that year focusing on our couples and roughly the 10-6 months mark was mainly just sourcing inspiration.
WHAT WAS IT ABOUT STONES OF THE YARRA VALLEY THAT MADE YOU CHOOSE US?
From start to finish everything was absolutely seamless.
Lucas always wanted to get married at Stones and I had heard incredible things about the venue. At this point I hadn't photographed Stones before as we were in lockdown but I trusted his word and everything else I heard from others. I remember once we were out of lockdown and working, a few of our booked weddings were at the venue and I was in complete awe of how everything ran. This made me so much more excited for our wedding.
I mean, the venue in itself is the most beautiful and picturesque place but the team just makes everything that much better. I remember on our wedding day saying to the staff, 'I knew you guys were good but now seeing everything on the other end, I can't believe how incredible you guys actually are. Vonnie and Steve have put their heart and soul into creating the most magical venue in Victoria and a team of incredible people. This really shines through the team's energy. Aside from being the most picturesque place, everything was just flawless. the food, the staff, the overall environment and they are honestly great people. Everything is genuinely authentic and they genuinely care about your wedding day.
Thank you again to the beautiful team at Stones for creating the most magical wedding for us! Everything was perfect and we can't wait to come back for weddings we're photographing, lunch/dinner and our friends' weddings too!
What was the inspiration for the look and feel of the day?
To be completely honest, there was so much inspiration sourced from our very own couples who we photograph. We get to be a part of so many gorgeous weddings that we were able to use towards our inspiration. There was also a lot of Pinterest boards.
I always had a vision of having a wedding that was just simple, elegant and warm.
When viewing wedding blogs or magazines what did you find most useful? (eg. Inspiration via real weddings, inspiration through styled shoots, articles or information on specific suppliers).
I didn’t read a lot about weddings. I mainly just looked at photographs on Instagram, Pinterest and that was pretty much it for me. Being a wedding photographer of-course helped in so many ways as we’re able to see what works, what doesn’t.
WHAT WAS YOUR FAVOURITE PART DURING YOUR CEREMONY?
The most memorable moment of our wedding day was our first look. It was honestly the most heartwarming, most romantic and emotional thing I have ever experienced. Marrying Lucas brought out a whole new love language between us I never knew existed. We're generally full of banter, lots of business meetings over dinners and simply best mates. Those that know us well, know we rarely ever get overly lovey dovey; so this was really different for the both of us. Although we didn't go to Notting Hill, during our first look - we played "she by Elvis Costello" and I literally bawled my eyes out. Usually I see grooms reacting in such a way, but seeing Lucas as a groom from both perspectives of a creative and a bride was the most incredible thing I have ever felt. It was that very moment where I said to myself "he is literally the most handsome groom I have ever seen, I can't wait to photograph him".
I really wanted to do a first look as seeing each other for the first time was really important for me to keep this moment sacred. This might sound contradicting, but the moment was particularly important for me to feel real emotions and to be completely honest, I was petrified of seeing him for the first time in front of all of our family and friends. I wanted us to enjoy an intimate moment just the two of us with hopes that I would be a little less nervous during our ceremony.
The whole time during our first look I bawled my eyes out. It was an unexplainable feeling. I think seeing him for the first time, seeing myself on the other end as a bride, seeing our two culturally and religiously different families come together to celebrate us was incredibly emotional. I couldn't stop crying from happiness and we were both in a romance bubble.
Although we had done a first look, during our ceremony, we both teared up. I think we both just felt so happy that we could share that very moment with our nearest and dearest ones.
DID YOU WRITE YOUR OWN VOWS? IF SO, WHAT MADE YOU DO THAT?
We wrote our own vows and couldn't recommend this more. It was a moment for both of us to be truly authentic and raw with one another in front of all of our family & friends.
What was the best piece of wedding advice you received?
Take in every single moment and truly enjoy it. Because it really does go by so quickly!
WHAT WAS THE BEST THING YOU DID AT YOUR WEDDING?
Book Stones 100%. Honestly everything about the wedding was incredible. Our vendors, family / friends. Everything was just perfection.
WHAT DOES MARRIAGE MEAN TO YOU NOW?
Family.
Do you have any advice for couples who are currently planning their weddings?
Don't overthink what could go wrong. Focus on the positives, and whatever is meant to happen will happen. Of-course in saying that, plan for exactly what you envision for your wedding day. We didn't hold back on booking the suppliers we wanted and it was everything we could have asked for on our special day.
TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT WHAT LIFE IS LIKE NOW…
Well we're currently in New York writing this in our 19th floor apartment overlooking the beautiful city. We've just finished photographing a wedding in California and now heading to Italy to photograph some more beautiful weddings and enjoy our honeymoon in our motherland. We absolutely can't wait for what the future holds!
Get to know Eunice Carswell - Head Housekeeper
We were lucky enough to catch up with Eunice recently to get a bit more insight into this passionate, super-organised, inspiring force of nature!
Born and raised in rural Queensland and growing up as a farmer’s daughter, Head Housekeeper, Eunice Carswell enjoyed a simple but creative life as a young girl. She learnt to cook & sew from age 10 and almost everything her family ate, they grew, pickled, baked, preserved, bottled, dried or bartered from.
In her early 20’s, Eunice left farming life behind and took up a retail traineeship with Coles Myer which set the path for roles in customer service and training staff, opening new stores and working with a diverse mix of people and abilities. She’s gone on to enjoy many other different jobs over the years (Nanny, Youth Mentor, Bed and Breakfast Owner, waitressing, landscaping and interior design, just to name a few) and during several covid lockdowns, Eunice took on a very essential service of delivering chocolate and wine to people in their homes!
A little over 8 years ago, Eunice made her way up the oak-lined driveway of Stones of the Yarra Valley to fill an annual leave position in the housekeeping department, where her incredible work ethic, attention to detail and management skills quickly shone through. She was offered the role of Housekeeping Manager soon after, and took it in her stride; “Flexible work hours, close to my family, alongside a remarkable team of housekeeping ‘ninjas’ meant it was an easy decision to make! Oh, and the view’s not bad either!”
Eunice spends her days off cooking at home, gardening, playing music, walking Lonnie the Beagle and “with 4 kids left at home between myself and my partner Dave (a busy pilot), we basically run a taxi service too!”
We were lucky enough to catch up with Eunice recently to get a bit more insight into this passionate, super-organised, inspiring force of nature!
How would you describe your day job to a child?
We make everything look lovely for when you visit
What does happiness look like to you?
Happiness is not having to set the alarm for the next day! But the promise of a new day, fresh air and sunshine is something to look forward to, with a hot cup of tea!
What’s your favourite blog?
Simple recipes using local seasonal produce. I’m no chef, but I have been collating all my own favourite recipes (and a few family ones) for about 10 years, to give to my kids in the form of a cookbook one day... the fun part is definitely experimenting along the way, so watch this space!
With such a big, blended family, we don't usually have leftovers, but I like to find creative ways of using up all the ingredients and leftovers - to create yet another delicious meal or snack.
What is your motto or personal mantra?
Attention to detail is an addictive habit - finding the daily motivation gets you started, then it becomes a way of life.
What do you like most about your job?
My staff are the favourite part of my job. We are a strong team; every single person makes a difference. There is laughter, hard work, loyalty, and strong work ethics. Nothing is impossible, even in crazy wedding season with tight time frames, we somehow get it done! The young people starting with us - often this is their first job, which I like to think will be a good learning experience and set them up for their other interests and careers when they move on. Working on such a beautiful property and being one of many who help maintain the presentation is a huge honour, and responsibility. When you take on such a task, you really have to treat the business as if it is your own, and demonstrate those attitudes to your colleagues and customers as well.
What is your guilty pleasure?
Guilty pleasure.... how many am I allowed?! Simply to go out and enjoy a nice 2-course dinner with my partner, conversation, maybe some live music and a sunset.... and no dishes!
Emily & Ben - August 1st 2021
Celebrating their relationship with the people who helped them grow & blossom from a new couple in the prime of their nerdy teenage years into the gorgeous couple that they are today, was everything Emily & Ben hoped for when they exchanged their vows. It was the smaller moments in the day that they enjoyed the most and throwing tradition to the wind with an immaculately curated playlist instead of a DJ, Emily & Ben made their wedding entirely their own.
How did you meet?
We met in our prime and nerdy teenage years on a Friday night after school volunteering at a tutoring program
Any funny first date stories?
Emily
Ben was 20 minutes late to a very forgettable movie…
He made up for it on the next date when I got a free boost juice from his “buy 10 get 1 free” loyalty card… very romantic
Ben
Directly after the movie, Emily was picked-up by her parents who were suspicious about her new “boy friend”
What's one thing you wish you knew before you started planning your wedding?
Emily
Spreadsheet formatting preferences do not always align
Ben
No matter what goes wrong it will still be a beautiful day, so don’t worry too much about back-up plans
What made you choose Stones of the Yarra Valley?
Beautiful greenery and scenery, delicious food and wine, and the confidence of having everything on the one site with amazing staff behind the scenes
What did you think would be your favourite part of the day? What did it end up being?
Emily
I thought my favourite part was going to be the “big” moments like our first dance and walking down the aisle… but I loved the smaller moments like eating an entire trout together, getting rose petals thrown into our eyes, etc.
Ben
I thought my favourite part was going to be seeing Emily walking down the aisle – I was right!!
Did you scrap any wedding traditions? If so, why?
We didn’t have a DJ or band which we felt was a little unorthodox! We had our beautiful friend Dan hit play on a carefully curated series of immaculate playlists – he even adjusted the volume at crucial heart-tugging moments in the ceremony. Thanks Dan!
What was your first dance song and why?
“Young Hearts Run Free” paradoxically a song about being trapped in a loveless relationship but a certified disco bop nonetheless
Have you managed to go on a honeymoon and if so, where?
We finally got to spend some time in Tassie recently… almost a year after the wedding (thanks covid!). Very lovely to be able to travel again, and as husband and wife!
What does marriage mean to you?
Getting married hasn’t changed much in our lives (expect for fancy rings!) but for us it meant an opportunity to celebrate our relationship with all our friends and family who have helped us grow and blossom together.
Tell us a little about what life is like now...
We are currently living in the inner north – basically splitting our time between our local bakery and wine bar.
Ben is a palliative care doctor and Emily is an urban designer. For now, our family is us and our treasured house plants.
Celebrant: Sophie Cleary
Photographer: Jeremy Blode Photography
Florist: The Providore
Bridal: Lola Varma
Cake: Miss Ladybird Cakes