Tell us a little about yourselves, what you do, what you love, what is unique about you and your relationship…
Dan and I met in 2013 when he spotted me at a party and approached me on the dance floor. We had actually been in the same university lectures for two years, but never crossed paths. I am a freelance graphic designer and digital marketer and Dan looks after a music discovery blog. Personality-wise, we are quite different. Dan is loud and loves to work a room. I’m more of a silent assassin who prefers to enjoy a few drinks with people who are close to me. I had only been to two weddings before ours, but knew I wanted something different. I found the Tree Church online, and could hardly believe it was in New Zealand. Although Dan would usually never be caught dead in a suit, he was keen for something different and special for our wedding day, too. We worked with Zambesi to create a bespoke forest green suit from fabric saved from a previous collection. We paired it with a handmade deer leather bow tie in the same forest green, and vegan Doc Martens, which were slim-line and comfortable. When it came to my dress, I had no idea where to begin, so Mum and I planned a trip to Melbourne for a week. We found it the day we arrived, in a small boutique with two wonderful girls helping us. When I tried it on, it fit like a glove and I just knew. I didn’t want shoes that were white or too ‘bridal’, and an incredible pair of gold Yves Saint Laurent heels stole my heart. A friend told us that it’s important to try to stay together on your wedding day, and to take a moment to step back and take it all in. We took their advice and stepped outside of the tent just as the dance floor started lighting up. Standing there, watching our favourite people dancing and celebrating, was one of our favourite moments. For us, marriage means being loyal, honest and supportive, having someone to make a whole lot of memories with, and to tell you when you’ve had too many croissants or forgot your chores. And that they love you.
Photography: Jonny Scott Photo– Second shooter: Steph Killip- Film- loading assistant: Connor Lambert-Film Lab: Atkins Film Lab– Bride: Suzanne Harward gown– Groom’s suit: Zambesi (custom)- Ceremony venue: The Tree Church, Ohaupo– Celebrant: Groom’s Dad, Peter Woolston- Bridesmaid’s attire- Custom by Mania Moko– Flora: On My Hand– Bride’s shoes: Yves Saint Laurent– Makeup: Natalie Dawson– Bride’s earrings- Lucy Folk Anchovy Hoop and Culet diamond studs (gifted by bride’s parents)- Wedding bands: Cartier ‘Love Band’– Engagement ring: Culet– Reception location: Private family property in Te Puna, Tauranga- Entertainment: Dylan Cherry- Hair: Juanita Wooler– Groomsmen’s suits: Hallensteins suits– Groom and groomsmen’s shoes: Doc Martens from Public Library Showroom– Special song: ’33 “God” by Bon Iver- Catering & cake: Blank Canvas Catering–
