Penelope and Alain- Photography by Zanda Photography

Tell us a little about yourselves, what you do, what you love, what is unique about you and your relationship…

We have been together for 11 years… call us straight out of high school sweethearts that decided that this was going to be forever.

First time I met Alain, I just knew he was the one for me, even at 18. It really didn’t take long to fall deeply in love with him. His family became mine and vice versa. I love how we have grown up so beautifully together.

We are originally from South Africa. We moved here just under 2 years ago. There is no one that has given me more courage to do things I would never contemplate of doing than Alain. One of my favourite things about him is how much I love and appreciate how ambitious he is. I really look up to him for that.

Growing up together was the most unsurpassed experience & we are so looking forward to the next few decades as husband and wife. And eventually, there will be little minis running around.

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…

We were so lucky – all our family and friends flew from all over the world (England, SouthAfrica, Chile, Switzerland……) for our wedding. We had such a chilled and intimate wedding – exactly what we wanted. Everyone had so much fun! The style of the wedding was really elegant. I wanted to keep it graceful yet simple. My

Mom passed away in 2016 and her favourite colour was peach so I decided to make it the colour theme of the wedding to try and incorporate her. The venue was just perfect as it has massive windows looking on to the beautiful backdrop of the gorgeous ocean and Rangitoto!

Tell us about your main outfits:

I have always dreamed of a sweetheart neckline, plain wedding dress. I literally found the exact dress I wanted online, went to the store, tried it on, loved it, paid for it and that was it – all it took was 38 minutes.

Lain was absolutely fantastic – he just let me choose everything. I imagined that colour suit on him since forever so was thrilled when we found it in store and what a gorgeous groom he made.

What were some of the most memorable/unique moments from the day?

Well, besides marrying the man of my dreams…Walking down the aisle with my beautiful Dad who at 76 years old flew all the way from England…

Having my little sister by my side as my maid of honour (who also flew from England) And of course having all my friends and family there from all over was so special. I love the fact that it was really chilled vibes.

Any advice for other couples planning to spend the rest of their lives together?

Always be kind to one another.

Photography: Zanda Photography | Ceremony and Reception location: McHugh’s of Cheltenham, Devonport | Celebrant: Syd Walker | Bride’s dress: Marilyn’s Bridal | Groom’s outfit: Hallensteins | Rings: Bride- Custom made by Bella Bespoke, Groom- Micheal Hill | Shoes: Bride- Number 1 Shoes, Groom- Hallensteins | Jewellery: Earrings from Lovisa | Make-up: MAC | Hair: Bride | Fragrance: Hypnotic Poison- Christian Dior | Bridesmaid’s dresses: Lulus, Groomsmen: Hallensteins
| Flora: Blossom | Planner: Bride | Food/beverages/catering: McHugh’s of Cheltenham, Devonport | Cake: Mother of the Groom.