Nicole works for a boutique called Superette, coming up with concepts and directing photo shoots, while Hayden works for Samsung in marketing. We recently bought our own house and one of Hayden’s newfound loves is to spend every weekend improving the house, whereas Nicole loves soaking up the sun at every opportunity for hours on end. Hayden also has a passion for fishing and diving which is handy as we both love to cook and eat fresh seafood. We also have an addiction to Home and Away, an Australian TV series. It’s a ritual we have each night. We met at the University of Auckland while both studying for a Bachelor of Commerce. We were introduced by a mutual friend. After a few sushi dates and text message exchanges, the rest is history. We both grew up going to Pauanui, a small New Zealand beach town, each year with our families but we never crossed paths even though our baches were only one house apart. Being very busy people, we face challenges every day. Communication is important and is a work in progress – it’s always important to ask questions, as every person has their own way of sharing things and you just need to be as open as possible to make things work. We got married at Kauri Bay Boomrock, a truly stunning setting. Because they offer a full wedding service, it meant there was minimal involvement from us, apart from styling the space. We opted for a feature toitoi piece above the bridal table and everything else was black or white, with hints of natural tones and touches of greenery in the florals. Instagram was a great tool for finding vendors that you would struggle to find with a Google search. It is a great way to see how things look in reality. That’s how we found our photographer, dress designer and seat hire company. Remember, don’t get too caught up in wedding traditions that don’t feel right for you. It’s your special day and in the end it’s you, the couple, that needs to be happy. There are so many creative options out there, so make it how you want it. Enjoy the moments alone together while you’re getting photos taken. For us, being married means having someone special to wake up next to and a partner to tackle life with. It is an acknowledgement to each other that no matter the circumstance, you always have someone there you can trust.
Photography: Jody Lidstone, I Do Photography Bride’s dress: Vinka Design Grooms Suit & Shoes: Rembrandt Flora: Print & Petal Venue & catering: Kauri Bay Boomrock Rings: Howick Village Jeweller Bride’s earrings: Zoe & Morgan Bridesmaids’ earrings: Homage Official Celebrant: Justine Russell-Cowan Makeup: Blair Gamblin Hair: Emma Sheen Bride’s shoes: Mischief Shoes Bridesmaids’ dresses: Silk Laundry Gift registry: The Lovely Registry Chair Hire (reception): Two Foxes Styling
