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The urban brick wall that framed this ceremony immediately transported me to a funky New York alleyway. Couple that with one super classy Sienna Reid flower wall and you’ve got one heck of a wedding location. And that was only the first thing I noticed… It's fair to say that this wedding just got better and better!
Kassie and Mark’s special day was so much more than a wedding, and I still get all the feels when I think back to that moment. This very thoughtful bride and groom wanted their ceremony to be focused on two things: family and love. When we first got chatting all things weddings, they were pretty certain that they dreamed of a ceremony that was tailored to them as a couple, heartfelt, and a little bit funny…. Tick, tick, tick- totes what I'm all about! With family and love in mind, it was essential that we included a super special tribute to Kassie and Mark’s grandparents. They have both recently shared their 60th and 62nd wedding anniversary…. How cool is that? We made sure this awesome 4 got the biggest ‘chawoo’ that the Atrium could handle, and a beautiful bunch of flowers to acknowledge this amazing adventure. It’s important to take note of what those around you, in lasting and loving marriages do and say. This is where the real gems of knowledge come from- and to have 4 grandparents to guide and inspire is so remarkable. Grandies rule! The section they dedicated to each other was super cute! So often our wedding day is focused around making others happy, which we all love to do, but making sure there are pockets in the day that are ALL about the B & G is vital- and these guys did just that, I loved hearing about the little things they do together which makes life together tick along with joy and laughter. These two have it sussed! Kassie and Mark’s bridal party were a forced to be reckoned with- talk about power squad! The girls looked amazing, the guys looked amazing and all 10 of them up there together was bridal party goodness to the max. They all got a special mention and we learnt a lot about the great time they have shared with Kassie and Mark in the good ol' days. Such a hoot! What a way to kick off my second wedding season! It was such a pleasure to be there with them! Photographer: Amy Bell Photography
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It’s a gloomy ol’ winter’s day here in the Waikato and I felt like brightening up the mood a notch. So, as my little (actually not so little) Bear is catching some zzzzs, I’ve decided to sit down and write about one of the sunniest days from last wedding season- the 14th Jan 2017 aka that time Anna and Logan got hitched! Mmmm that’s better! Instantly happy. It’s fair to say that Mr Sunshine was pretty chuffed with himself on this day. In fact everything about this day was the epitome of golden. Anna and Logan were probably the happiest bride and groom I have ever seen and the twinkling lake that you could see for miles from that Kinloch cliff was absolutely breathtaking. Did I hear you say you want to get married again and have a view like that? Yeah, I feel ya! Being the celebrant, I normally meet the bride before hand for a last minute deep breath and an excited cuddle. But Anna, the sweetest thing, wanted an element of surprise for me too. EEK! So the first time I saw her, as a bride, was when she hit that aisle in Ellery style, arm in arm with her precious Mum and Dad. Hands down, a career highlight for me! There’s something so darn special about being asked to marry your mates. And being the last hitch-fest within our Hamilton group of friends, there was a special spark in the air and in all of our hearts. Perhaps it was the end of an era, but it was also the beginning of one heck of a lovely adventure together. Anna and Logan’s ceremony was a true representation of them- simply perfect. Their heartfelt vows were filled with beautiful promises and cheeky yet charming reflections on their life together so far. And the references to rugby, fashion, surfing and travel are all of the little things that fill the pages of the Asplin storybook. A gorgeous introduction of their bridal party, and heartfelt messages to them individually, added such a personal touch to the 10 of them. And their cool musical selection, which all explored the idea of higher love was certainly fitting when you felt on top of the world! Their refined, uncluttered styling and super rad bench seats and bar leaners were perched perfectly on the lawn of Anna’s parent’s place. They captured the view before us as it we were looking at a photo of a faraway place. And a little glimpse of the reception venue was in the corner of our eyes. Talk about a teaser! The colour palette they went for was black and white with hints of green, which definitely ticked the sophisticated box of what was also a backyard bash- a perfect blend of stylish yet relaxed #vibegoals. Her gorgeous gals looked great in their LBD, which made Anna’s white Ellery number totally pop! And Logan’s lads looked super steezy in their simple black and white get up. Their cute polka dot socks definitely matched the very rad personalities that made up this gang of cool cats. Anna and Logan wanted this day to be about them. And if you remember my blog post earlier on, I talked about the focus being on adventure, black and white, and cafe inspired. I think it’s fair to say that they could not have included these 3 focus points any better- a bit of styling genius in my eyes. Anna and Logan, I will always think back to your most perfect day and smile for SO MANY REASONS! Your advice to stay true to yourselves through the process and be brave is totally on point. Do that in all that you do and your love will always take you higher. Can’t wait for what’s in store for us all in the future. Images Benjamin and Elise Flowers Daisy Chain and Paper Planes Furniture hire Louisiana Lucy Flower wall Sienna Reid Vintage lights Vintage & Style “ Come with me my love
To the sea The sea of love I want to tell you How much I love you.” When lyrics of songs come to life- I just love it! Standing with Matt “by the sea, the sea of love” on one of sunniest afternoons of the season, patiently waiting to see a glimpse of his beautiful bride, is one of my favourite wedding moments! Katie is the most gorgeous person, inside and out, so we knew the moment we laid eyes on her was going to be a goodie- but oh my goodness, ‘a goodie’ doesn’t even come close to describing this bride. Katie was the kind of bride that knocked the breath out of you and you couldn’t help but let a few tears trickle their way down your cheeks. I was wiggling my toes that day for sure (a trick I use to help me not cry during important moments). But seriously, Katie and Matt’s entire wedding was styled to perfection and every little detail was thought about with great care. What I adored most about their day what the feeling of love that smothered the air. You just couldn’t escape it- and you didn’t want to. K & M are a couple that complete each other- and seeing them get hitched on the sunniest day was something that was just meant to be. Katie and Matt got married at the estuary in Whangamata- a place special to them and somewhere they pop away to, just to chill- a vibe that was felt during their wedding weekend. The earthy tones from the dry grass and deep hues of green from surrounding trees painted the perfect backdrop for this rustic wedding. They needed only what nature provided, and this cute beachside town was spot on! But back to that gorgeous bride- Katie’s dress was made by Matt’s very clever aunty. It was perfect. Her flower crown and smoldering makeup added to the rustic/chic look that she was going for- she was so babe’n and I think her photographer, Krystle from Bespoke Photography ‘squealed and jumped and did a little dance’ when she saw that one of a kind bridal number! Her bridesmaids looked so sweet in their pastel, pleated pieces, and pretty posies- this trio of besties were perfectly matched. But we can’t forget the lads- who were equally as suave in their cheeky kit. With fun socks, summery shirts and bow ties to boot…What a snazzy team they were. Katie and Matt’s ceremony was a pleasure to craft. They had so many cool ideas and were serious about every word said. They wanted it to be sweet, and personal, and they designed their own very charming wedding vows which brought a tear to their guests’ eyes… yet again! Salmonella Dub were totally on point when they said.. “I first saw you across the way, now I think about you night and day”… So it is only fitting that their song ‘Love Your Ways’ featured in their ceremony. This love story began when they caught eyes across the dance floor at the Pirongia Pub. Katie was shaking her booty on the dfloor and Matt was not too far away giving Katie a run for her money with his sweet dance moves. The passing of sultry eyes continued well into the night and finally when they bumped into each other, Matt asked for Katie’s number and sealed the deal with a cheeky kiss. We are oh so glad this happened. Two very beautiful moments in their ceremony was when they presented their Mums with a gratitude rose (a small token for two very precious ladies) and a surprise signing of the registry warmed the hearts of two very humbled guests. It was a perfect summers’ day celebrating this beautiful love. And every time I see your grace A warm smile spreads across my face And then you look at me and say Katie and Matt, I love your ways. Can we do it again? Pretty pleeeeaasssee! Florist: Arrow Florist Brides Gown: Handmade by Aunty Maureen Bridesmaids Gowns: Glassons Hair: Little Hair Co Makeup: Kate Solley Makeup Artist Ceremony Venue: Whangamata Estuary Catering: Sticky Date Catering Stationary/Invitations: Paper Rose Cake: Matt's Mum Reception Venue: Whangamata Golf Club Photography: Bespoke Photography Featured on: http://www.bespokephotography.co.nz/stories/2017/5/30/katie-matt-1 And https://nouba.com.au/green-white-wedding-whangamata-nz She opened the door and I literally felt star struck! Lisa, the beautiful bride, was wearing the most exquisite flower crown, that Rue de Seine dress (OMG-WOW) and she was oh so ready to get hitched. And check out those lads! Russ certainly pampered his boys and shouted them all to a pedicure that morning. This was one bare-footed bridal party that I will never forget!
Lisa and Russ were married on the 7th January at Lisa’s folk’s home- such a precious setting for a couple who cherish home and family as much L&R. It was the most perfect day; the sun was shining, butterflies were flicking through the air, and pops of colour exploded from an exquisite array of blooming flowers. This was easily one of the most delightful weddings that I have ever been to. Every moment was special and every element crafted with care and a personal ‘homegrown’ touch. Looking out over this simply sweet setup, I couldn't help but fall head over heels in love with the atmosphere that these two love-birds had created-it was only fitting that my heels were quickly removed and I could feel the grass between my toes. As birds sang sweetly in the trees and bumblebees drizzled over the pretty hand-picked posies, Lisa’s girls approached the aisle with an excitement so raw and natural, you could not deny the overwhelming sense of joy that was felt in that moment. And then she was there, walking hand in hand with her loving Mum and Dad. There really is nothing better than noticing the look on a Groom’s face when he spots his girl in the distance. Couple that with the look of pride in her parents' eyes and you've got yourself a memory to hold onto forever. The ceremony was beautiful (if I do say so myself) and I loved being able to play that little part in this huge day. Lisa, Russ, and I hand-crafted their ceremony together and every sacred story, pretty poem, and solemn vow had precious significance to this couple and their families. The guests had flocked from all over the world to celebrate this one-of-a-kind love. And I've gotta hand it to the Canadians, who were incredibly well represented! Their efforts to soar over to our little corner of the world was amazing and they certainly gave the Kiwis a run for their money on the cricket pitch. It was a catch up of old friends, new friends and a great chance to put a face to the name of people we had heard so much about. Tales were told and stories were shared, and as the chatter took flight into the treetops, the apricot sun began to set. Lisa and Russ, thank you for the love and happiness that you brought to us all on your magical day. “if you were with me now on my favourite beach we’d watch the distant seismograph of silver peaks darkening to indigo and walk on the breakwater towards the harbour mouth.” -Cilla Mcqueen The greatest adventure is to live the life that your heart desires. and this is my wish for you. May your road together be lovely and full of adventurous turns and sweetly singing birds. May your photograph albums burst with treasured memories and many wonderful moments captured. And may you live happily ever after, Mr and Mrs Cannings! It was a pleasure. Photo credit:https://www.nicolainglisphotography.co.nz/ It seems that during every stroll I take or every scroll through the latest posts I make, a brand-spanking engagement ring sits perfectly on the manicured finger of one of my dear friends. Yes- it’s that time in my life where everyone is taking the big love leap and getting married! Personally, my heart flutters with every one of these sparkling posts that I see. It is so lovely to know that my friends are going to feel the way I felt- Oh so in love on one very special day.
Nearly a year later, the only memories I have of that day most wonderful day are absolutely just that- wonderful. But if I put my ‘let’s get real hat’ on William Shakespeare was on point when he said that, “The course of true love never did run smooth,” and I think this is pretty darn relevant when it comes to planning a wedding. That ‘one’ day is truly a scrumptious occasion but I’d be lying if I said the journey to that aisle strut was silky smooth. During a recent catch up with my girls I was quick to realise that we all had a few things in common when it came to wedding freak outs. Ta da- blog post! Let’s go for a walk through the mind of a bride and I hope that if you’re planning a wedding you’ll feel less ‘bridezilla’ and more comforted in the fact that it’s all just a part of this flippin rad adventure. Also know that your hysterical outburst can be summed up with one simple word: normal! Expect the Expectation: One thing I’ve learned from my girlfriends is we are all bound to feel the weight of expectations pressing heavily on our shoulders during those busy wedding months. It’s a no brainer: We want our day to be perfect, unique, and personalised. We get worried that our guests won’t have a good time. Well girl, flick that thought away quick smart. One thing I can guarantee you is that if your guests see you and your brand new hubby loving the heck out of each other- they will have no choice but to adore the day that you’ve created. Always remember that your guests will not know all of your potential plans and wildest wedding wishes, they will love what they see. And that is you, making a sacred commitment to your person. Yes- people will expect this. Yes, they will expect that- but how fresh is it when people tamper with these expectations? Give your day a point of difference- I think that’s what we are all searching for. If it’s not a definite yes- it’s a definite no I am in love with fashion and I really wanted to find a dress that was ‘timeless’. Hold up… have you seen your Mum’s wedding dress? Don't get me wrong- she looks flippin incredible- but you can really see how much times are a changing! Timeless is actually a pretty hard thing to master when it comes to wearing white layers. Searching for the perfect dress is like finding the perfect person. It just fits. But it can take a wee bit of searching! I’m not sure we are all going to have that ‘this is the one’ moment like we see on at the flicks, but I do remember always coming back to that ‘special’ piece that I couldn’t stop thinking about. Don’t be afraid to be unique and defs don’t be afraid to juush things up. There is a pretty little dress looking for you and calling your name- you might just have to listen more closely to hear it. Whether the weather be fine, whether the weather be not… The little wedding mantra that I kept hidden in my heart was to not worry about the things I had no control over. If it rained, it rained and I would probably get wet. If I tripped, well that would be less than ideal, but I would simply stand up. No matter what happens on your day, you will still get to marry your number 1 bestie and that’s the point of this whole thing isn’t it? P.S overcast clouds make for the most perfect pictures- so don’t be praying for a 30 degree day anytime soon. If you can’t handle that weather jandle have an easy backup option just in case. P.P.S umbrellas serve their purpose perfectly! Guess who’s coming to dinner? There are two words you will never want to hear again post wedding: Guest List This is hands down the hardest and most emotional part of planning a wedding. It can bring a tear to the toughest bride’s eye. There are a lot of no brainers involved- you’re on a budget and you’re restricted by space. There’s also lots of heart breaking decisions that come along with it: Pleasing parents, do you invite kids? What about partners? And the list goes on...and on. Trust me! But there’s also something really important to keep in mind- you’re getting married and you need to be surrounded by your biggest fans. It’s fair to say you are not going to be able to please everyone. The best way to work through this is compromise and conversation. Be honest and don’t ever feel bad about the decision you make together- people do understand… or… they will when they find themselves in your shoes. Not a care in the world! You will find yourself fretting about your chair covers being straight and you will worry that dinner might be served 15 minutes late. These are all completely normal worries to have as you travel this road. One thing I can guarantee is that on your day you won’t care in the slightest- you’re married, girl. Nothing can take that feeling away from you. (Thanks for the thought- Kate x) As I sat down to write this blog it took me SO much longer to recollect the momentary stresses than it did the everlasting moments of joy. Enjoy wedding planning. Celebrate your adventure and of course stay true to you two. You’re love is perfect and your day will be too. Here's a wee treat and a lasting little note from my faves and recent brides… Bridget || married to Hamish 2014. Photo cred: Eva Bradley Photography Feel confident with the dress you choose and never doubt your decision. Katie || marrying Matt 2017. I was unsure about whether to send Save the Dates and when to send invites. But give yourself time to get everything back. Kate || married to Matt 2014. Photo cred: Toni Larsen Photography Prioritise what’s important to you and where you want to spend your cash. Things can get expensive fast. Rachel || married to Chris 2012. Photo cred: Claire Mossong Plan, plan, plan! Book things that you love well in advance. Alice || married to Tom 2015. Photo cred: Brooke Baker Have one of your friends or bridesmaids be your point of call for the day- give them your phone so your day is as stress free as possible. (Alice was my ‘go to’ and she was my saviour). Tessa || married to Courtney 2015. Photo cred: Photography by Nami If you have a budget stick to it. Religiously! If there is anything over and above ask yourself if it’s going to make your day any more special. If it’s not simply don’t get it. Hannah || married to Malachi 2014. Photo cred: Brooke Baker Be each other’s best friend and never stop flirting with each other. We all have those people in our lives who take up a special little section of our hearts. We can wonder why this is or ponder over what makes them so special to us, but to be honest, finding the answers is probably easier said than done. So in saying that, let me tell you about my very special ‘Heart Holders’, Katie and Matt aka soon to be Mr and Mrs Seymour.
Now I’m going to go and make this story even cuter… I get to marry them. My heart is full. Katie and I met through our beautiful friend, Rach. At the time, Carl and I had just started dating and Katie had recently passed sultry eyes across the Pirongia Pub dance floor to the ‘cool guy with dreadlocks’, Matt! We found out, after a bit of girly gossiping, Matt was one of Carl’s old time besties and they’d been mates since they were 4. Argh! More cute. These two are just so cool I had to tell you all about them. Let’s call this one: Lego Love Matt is a builder and Katie is a pro at DIY! Together they are Construction Specialists and over recent years have built the most supportive and sheltered relationship. The foundations and frames are secure with the love that these two have for each other, and the joists and beams stand strong against anything that comes their way. I think it’s fair to say that whatever these two build together- it’s as safe as houses. Katie and Matt are a couple of busy bees. They’ve recently been chipping away at home renos (and oh my you should see their handy work), running new businesses, rebuilding their health, and designing plans for a beautiful future. Anyone who knows this couple will agree with me when I say they have the biggest hearts and that their love for the little moments we can find in each and every day is what makes them so special. Their favourite times are spent in each other’s company simply chilling, or catching up on a favourite episode or movie. They are huge animal lovers and have the coolest wee gang: Lily and Myla. We’ve often caught them going out for brunch, or jumping over the hill to spend some beachy time at Whangamata. This will be such a special spot for their summery wedding! Matt’s proposal was pretty darn special and he really hit the nail on the head with this one. The love birds took a cheeky trip to Queenstown (besides Whanga- this is their other hangout- jelly much?) Matt managed to get Katie out for a chilly walk. Little did she know that ditching the cosy couch and hot chocolate that afternoon was going to be the best decision ever! As their breath snapped into ice and they blew into their hands to keep warm, they spotted a freezing white wharf jutting out into the lake. Moments later they were carefully tiptoeing along it to have a nosey at NZ’s finest scenery. Matt decided to grab that magical moment with both hands (remember it was slippery)... He got down on one knee, popped out a stunning solitaire ring, and asked her to marry him. What a beautiful moment caught in time- It was winter, before a snow fall, a perfect time to be in love. They got engaged at one of their favourite places and they’re getting married at the other. Already this wedding has Katie and Matt plastered all over it- It’s going to be effortlessly stunning. They’ve already got so many special little moments up their sleeve to ensure it is personalised and a real celebration of the love that they share. In my eyes- those are the most perfect and precious weddings. It all started with 4 simple words that every girl loves to hear… “I like your shoes.” Little did Logan know that complimenting Anna on her fashion was a sure fire way to catch her eye! Fast forward 8 years and this beautiful couple are in the process of planning their wedding.
Anna and I met through our partners in crime. Logan and Carl have been buds for years. These two are born and bred Hamilton surfers who love beers, banter and BBQs… oh and they are both really tall! It’s fair to say that after living together, holidaying together, and sharing so many things in common (in particular the colour black, and a love for Taupo) these two are a significant part of our lives and will be forever. Which is why having the chance to guide them through their “I dos” in Jan 17 is going to be such a magical moment for me as a celebrant, and friend. These two are totally crush worthy and there are so many reasons why. Let’s call this the ABCs of Anna and Logan. A= Adventure. Ask Anna where her ‘happy place’ is and I can guarantee you her answer will be, “Anywhere- as long as it’s an adventure.” These two travel bugs love the fast-paced life that they both live and look at every day as a new adventure-how amazing is that?! They have travelled the world together and have ventured over many miles to check out some remarkable sights. Flip a coin or make a call at the drop of a hat- these two thrive on that. They support each other in their individual journeys but balance that up by going away together for a weekend of QT. When I think of Bali I think of Anna and Logan! This is a destination that lives in the centre of their hearts. Bring on April next year where they will be getting amongst the Bintang, barrels, and the Balinese beauty spas while on their honeymoon for 3 whole weeks- argh lucky sods! B= A Black and White Backdoor. I’m not going to give away too much about Anna and Logan’s wedding plans, but I can tell you this: Stylish does not even come close to describing their ideas. Both Anna and Logan are inspired by fashion. In fact, their love story began at Backdoor Surf Shop. They went bowling together and Logan was dressed ever so handsomely as… wait for it…. Batman! And we already know Anna obviously had very cool shoes on! Both A and L style it up with black and white accents so it is only normal that this monochrome colour scheme may very well be inspo for their big day. It’ll be fresh, funky and I can guarantee that Anna and Logan will be written all over it. C= Café Kinloch A lot of inspiration for their day has been found in the eateries and cafes that they have visited during their adventures around the world. I can only imagine that their day will be centred on great food, great chat, and the greatest company. It’s going to be a delicious evening under the stars in Kinloch- a place near and dear to them both. When Carl and I were travelling around Europe last year one of our favourite moments was getting a call from Anna and Logan sharing the exciting news of their engagement. Logan really had thought this one through! He had Anna following cryptic clues around their home until she read the final note: “You are on the home stretch and the end is near. I hope you’ve had fun my rhyming you can bear! What I ask you now is to quickly and swiftly dart, back out the door in which this treasure hunt did start!” And there he was down on one knee…. Who knew that the Batman she met in the bowling alley that night would turn out to be her best friend, her adventure buddy, her super hero and of course- her future husband? And so the adventure begins… I seriously can’t wait! Photo cred: Benjamin and Elise Photography http://benjaminandelise.com/ It’s crazy to think that it was nearly a year ago that my hubby and I ventured over the sea for our little Euro adventure. Turns out, this part of the world is not so little after all-but I’ve got to admit- it’s a wedding planner’s dream! Side note- you don’t have to go all the way to Europe to make your wedding original. If you are planning your special day take note of the little things- you can find the most beautiful ideas in the smallest places.
Inspo number 1: Ringspo Whether you designed/picked it yourself, or your partner in crime surprised the living heck out of you, it’s fair to say engagement rings are unique and can play a big part in the styling of your love story. Take a careful look at that pretty little thing. Simply the colour and the shape of your ring might be enough to spark that creative mind of yours. My snazzy number is a square cut, white diamond on a solid gold band. Our ceremony took place at my Aunty and Uncle’s beautiful home! We hardly did a thing to this setting but the square jars and white roses that lined our aisle was an idea that sprung to mind after close inspection of my left hand. The table settings at our reception were square vases filled with an assortment of the whitest flowers and our tables all had wooden and gold décor pieces. It was the colours of my ring (and my desire for a forest wedding) that helped us to fine-tune our colour palette: sage green, gold and white- simple and classic. Inspo number 2: Sinspo- not the naughty kind. I will never forget our magical nights in Sintra, Portugal. This is a land of cobbled alleyways, colourful artists on street corners, and buskers galore. This place is more like an enchanted woodland than just a ‘city escape’ and I’m pretty sure fairies dwell there. We walked for miles around this charming village and spent our evenings listening to the melodies flow smoothly from the wood instruments and into the tree tops. At the same time my ‘inner-bride-to-be’ thought of ways to take home this feeling that we wanted to re-create on your wedding day. Use your favourite places in the world as an inspiration for your styling and the mood that you want to achieve! Simply wrap your tipi poles in ivy or select specific songs that you want your band/DJ to play. Talk to your photographer about this place and find some similar settings for your creative shoot. If you are obviously in your happy place your guests will feel the way you want them too, and be completely touched by your love. Inspo number 3: Livin’spo For endless inspiration and ways to achieve a delightful wedding- grab your partner by the face and look and him or her! Together, it is your funniest, saddest, embarrassing and most lovely moments that you have already shared together that will be instrumental when crafting your day. Everyone loves a bit of banter and weddings are a perfect place to hear all about how you found one another, and the cute little ins and outs of your life together. Whether you craft the memories into your ceremony or secrets are spilled from a trusty bridesmaid or groomsman, be sure to focus on your love and tell your stories. Write your vowels together or keep them as a surprise. Dedicate a bit of your speech to your other half. Whatever you do, keep in the centre of your heart the road that you’ve already taken, the future that’s instore, and be proud of that! Inspo number 4: Brospo Rotate 360 degrees and take a look around. There are some pretty spesh people that you’ll have by your side as a source of inspo- and even they don’t know it… yet! Reflect on your special guests and be mindful of their talents! From brothers to dads, grandfathers to grandmothers, mothers to the little whipper snappers, and friends, everyone is important in your ceremony. Try to make this part of our day really special for all of your guests- I've got a few tricks up my sleeve to help you! There are so many little things that people can do that will have huge significance on your day: Seek help with the aisle strut, play a funky tune or have a special reading, a bit of audience participation is refreshing, remember a special someone, include meaningful song selection, carry something significant with you and play with tradition! The ideas are endless but thoughtful moments will leave a precious feeling in those most important to you. Inspo number 5: Cheesespo Weddings are a serious moment in your life- there’s no doubt about that! But along with a serious day can come a whole lot of laughter and a bit of cheese! Find ways to personalise a few aspects of your day. Namesake beers or punny favours can go a long way when trying to achieve relaxed and fun wedding feels! A little extra note: Carl was first made aware of my wedding dreams when I was in recovery post-surgery. I was drooling and slurring everywhere but I had a dream about what our wedding would be like, “I dweeamed abou our weeebing! It wa in a fouweph.”. It took him a couple of seconds to realise that I meant the day of my dreams was in a forest surrounded by trees. Post-sedation I am now a huge believer in dreams coming true. The images I had in my mind that fuzzy morning became our reality on 12-12-15 and we owe it to the people that we had around us. Take your time when planning things- there really isn’t a huge rush! But know in your heart that dreams do come true- I did get married in a forest like setting- surrounded by trees. It brings me so much joy to reflect on the little things from our wedding and realise that it was every single moment, every single person, and every little detail that made this day the most special day of our lives- and that is the biggest win for us. From the moment Carl got down on one knee and asked me to spend the rest of my life with him I could not wait to start creating a wedding that reflected Carl and me, and also communicated the love that we have for our friends and family. Planning this wedding was inspired by those we love and our relaxed/fun attitude that we believe makes us so compatible. Carl wanted a big party in a paddock and I wanted something a tad more traditional and structured. We easily compromised and opted for a traditional ceremony and keep reading on to understand more about how our reception was the best tipi party- ever! Our ceremony started at 2:30pm- and it rained until 2:29pm. Watching the sun come out was a delicious sight and it stayed out for our ceremony and the mingling time afterwards. A dear family friend was our celebrant. We tried to make this part of our day really special for all of our guests and I wrote the ceremony alongside our celebrant to ensure every single word had meaning and purpose. I had my 3 brothers and my Grandad ‘Gordy’ walk me down the aisle. Gordy was married to my Nana for 66 years- phenom! We had Carl’s 8 year old niece do a reading for us, we let balloons go to pay tribute to those who had passed away, and we gave each of our Mums a single stemmed white rose to represent the love that we will always have for them. Following our ceremony we cut our cake (made by my very talented Aunty, Chris) and all celebrated with bubbles and our namesake beers- ‘Carlsberg’ and ‘Becks’. We had the most exciting time with our bridal party during our creative shoot and our photographer, Krystle, was in fits of laugher the whole time! We loved capturing lots of special moments with them and they were full of fun ideas- we attempted to perfect the blue-steele pose, the Alley Road walk, flung the boys' suspenders, stopped a logging truck in its tracks, ran through fields and climbed all over our Kombi van- as a result- hilarious and amazing photographs were captured. Pop over to Bespoke Photography to see a few more! Our reception was set amongst a circle of ancient trees who stood like watchful protectors, curling around all the love at laughter that filled our reception. It was such a magical setting and the festoon lights, self-sourced ivy that wrapped round the tipi poles, and flames from the pizza oven turned it into the most romantic woodland. Our guests snacked on our grazing table while we were getting a few snaps taken- and they jammed away to a playlist that they had made via our ‘Play My Jam’ invitation. We had a constant flow of wood fired pizzas during the speeches which ensured our reception was casual and fun and a Polaroid guest book which captured a lot of hilarious moments. Our dessert was Fruju ice blocks and paper bags filled with strawberries and it’s fair to say our dinner service was easy and delicious! A lot of people say that marriage doesn’t really change a relationship too much- and I believe them. Our freckles and spots are the same as they were yesterday and our house with the creaky staircase will continue to stand proud, hugging in the love that we have already created- but what I think is more important is that fact that we’re completely ok with that. We are so in love with the life that we are living that if things were to stay this way forever, we know that we would have lived the happiest life. Any day spent with Carl is my favourite day! As Carl and I walk our path together and as we continue to grow and change, there is one thing that will never alter, we will always keep falling in love. Photos by Krystle at bespokephotopraghy.co.nz Features on Paper and Lace: http://paperandlace.com/2016/03/20/a-stunning-taupo-tipi-wedding-by-bespoke-photography/ Mix together Tessa and Court, their darling Juliet, beautiful music, Tag Burgers and fresh fruit Ice Creams and what do you get? Um… only the most beautiful back-yard wedding… ever!
Tessa and Courtney got married on a warm summer’s afternoon at the beautiful bride’s Ma and Pa’s place in Hamilton. As the sun set over the dry tussock paddocks Tessa and Court celebrated their love in a wonderful ceremony that reflected them as a couple oh so perfectly! To make it even more special their 4 year old daughter, Juliet, was the ring bearer and she was so darn cute! With the bridesmaids in white floaty skirts and the groomsmen in dots, they surely were a stylish bridal party and everything about them shouted… ‘FUN’. The afternoon was buzzing with laughter, good food and great tunes! Tessa’s beautiful rustic setting had flecks of green and white to keep it fresh and the hay bales dotted around the place gave it an earthy tone. The outside ceremony looked delicious and when TAG burger arrived- it smelt that way too. My friend Hannah and I were lucky enough to be the MC’s for the evening- and boy oh boy- it was so much fun! I feel so honoured to have been given this opportunity and we really did put our hearts and souls into it! We were in charge of organising the family photos, the cake cutting and the order of events. We worked closely with the photographer to ensure the day ran smoothly and it was really important to us that Tess and Court could focus on enjoying every minute of their day. We had the best time personalising our words towards the Bride, Groom and the Bridal party. We also knew so much about these two that we had a few tricks up our sleeve to catch a few giggles… we even created our very own ‘The Bachelor’ show- with a bit of audience participation. This was a beautiful day and ice creams on the dance floor under the stars was a great way to end the night. Congratulations Mr and Mrs Bertram. It was a pleasure to be part of your day. Please feel free to contact me if you’d like to hear more about my services as an MC. Photos by Nami: Pop over to http://photographybynami.com/ |
