Tell us a little about yourselves, what you do, what you love, what is unique about you and your relationship…
Sam works in marketing and I (Kate) am a teacher in Auckland. We have been together for nine years since meeting at Otago University. We both share a passion for creativity, family and the outdoors.
Tell us about your special day, was there a specific theme or style? Tell us a little about the setting, the styling and some of your favourite details…
The wedding ceremony was held on Sam’s Uncle and Aunties lawn in Marlborough, set amongst the vines, which are located at the base of the Richmond ranges. The reception was held just up the road at Sam’s parent’s vineyard, in the large machinery shed which was renovated for the event. Due to school holidays, I was able manage the design and theming of the different locations. Favourite aspect as to be the mustard fabric that we draped through the rafters in the machinery shed.
Tell us about your main outfits:
Sam and his groomsmen wore Bakers blue cotton suits, white shirts, with woollen knitted red and blue ties. My dress by made by Lola Varma bridal which are Perth based designers. We were able to organise a family weekend away (including a six month old) to visit the Melbourne showroom. The bridesmaids wore designs made by myself, Miss Crab and Shona Joy.
What were some of the most memorable/unique moments from the day?
Highlights included hamper time with the bridal party in the pine forest, sunset photos by the river with just the two of us, having our speeches spread throughout the night and of course the dance floor with everyone late into the evening. One key piece of advice we had was; Only do the traditional things that suit you, and/or modify traditions to make it something that is memorable for you. For instance, we didn’t want a top table so rather we just had our bridal party, their partners and a collection of good mates on the one long table. We also shared our first dance with everyone and used it as a party starter vs a slow dance. We didn’t have a cake or cut it, instead we enlisted the help of their aunties, mothers and cousins to create a selection of family favourite sweet treats.
Any advice for other couples planning to spend the rest of their lives together?
“You can’t get so hung up on where you would rather be, that you forget to make the most of where you are”; every stage of life is unique and special in its own way, don’t compare it to past experiences or look too far ahead, make sure to enjoy the moments along the way that make you laugh, smile and feel alive.
Photographer: Bayly and Moore Venue: Family Property Celebrant: Family Friend – Tomo Yee Entertainment: Aminor Thing Styling: The bride Hire: Betty and Co Flora: The Flower Farm, Forget me not design, and Verve Flowers Catering: Marlborough Weddings and Events Beverages: Forrest wines Cake: Brides Mum Groom’s Suit: Barkers Clothing Bride’s Dress: Lola Varma Bridal Rings: Grae Jewellery Bride’s Shoes: Ruby Shoes Groom’s Shoes: Barkers Makeup: Lucinda Campbell makeup Hair: Transform Occasion Hair Groomsmen Suits: Barkers Bridesmaids: Made by Bride, Miss Crabb and Shona Joy
