The proposal happened last summer at Garden Cove, a beautiful, secluded beach on Waiheke Island only accessible by boat. Every summer since we met we’ve sailed together, so the sailing proposal was an inspired choice. Anthony rowed me to the beach in a wooden dinghy, champagne at the ready.
We had a very intimate wedding with immediate family, grandparents and a couple of aunties and uncles – less than 30 guests. We’ve been together for a while and knew we wanted a simple, relaxed celebration so we’d have time to enjoy the day. It was held at Anthony’s parents’ house where he grew up, which has a beautiful outlook to the sea and an expansive lawn. We visited numerous wedding venues before we realised the perfect place was at home. The whole day was exactly what we’d hoped it would be. Sunny, warm and full of joy.
Anthony’s mum Sue sourced masses of coloured rose petals from a local supplier for confetti and to float in some of the water gardens that surround the house, and his sister Nicola hand-painted a watercolour floral motif for our invitations and place cards and had them hand-written by a calligrapher in Hong Kong where she lives.
His aunt and uncle – Jann and Simo Haanterä – played the most beautiful music on viola and flute, which made our ceremony unforgettable and very personal to us. We felt so privileged to have them be part of our wedding in this way.
I instantly knew my dress was the one. I wanted something minimalist, understated and a little bit bohemian. It just felt right the second I tried it on. Also, my sister didn’t laugh hysterically so I knew I was onto a winner – there were a few unsuccessful dress candidates before getting to this point.
It was pretty special seeing each other at opposite ends of the aisle – I’ve never seen Anthony in a full suit before and he looked so handsome! It felt like this crazy culmination of our time together up to that very moment, so much happiness, and excitement for the future.
Our reception dinner was at the French Kitchen, the French Café’s private dining space. With the exception of some simple florals, we did absolutely nothing to the room – it’s expansive and airy with beautiful art and mid-century furniture. It was the perfect size for our party, and not a coloured chair sash in sight.
Photography by: Coralee Stone / Location: Auckland
See more of this wedding inside issue three available to purchase here: issue two
Brides Dress, Rue de Seine | Brides Shoes, Stuart Weitzman | Make up, Grayson Coutts | Hair, Stephen Marr | Bridesmaid, Juliette Hogan Grooms Attire, Crane Brothers | Grooms Shoes, Working Style | Floral by Naomi at Leaf and Honey
