|
|
 Having briefly returned to New Zealand halfway through a world trip, Sarah met Simon and they fell in love. Rather than continue her travels, Sarah stayed and the couple began planning their wedding… It was my dream to be married in Whiritoa – a close-knit community on the Coromandel where I’ve spent every New Zealand summer of my life. But it was also important that Simon’s farming background be part of the day. The solution was an adventure down the beach, over the hill and across the farm paddocks to a tiny bay. Hanging from the pohutukawas along the walk were origami cranes representing happiness and prosperity, which Simon’s brother and sister made for us. Simon’s father had also sneakily carved out some wooden signs for the walking track, including ‘It’s not too late’, which kept guests entertained. A close friend married us and once we were declared husband and wife, we danced down the aisle to Slice of Heaven and enjoyed a glass of feijoa champagne. The wedding party then travelled by IRB (inflatable rescue boat) to rocks 500m offshore for a photo shoot. It was a hilarious watching everyone clambering onto the rocks from the boat – more than one person got totally soaked! It was important to us that all elements of the day were as unique and personal as possible. I love wildflowers, so three months before the wedding we planted a huge garden and filled envelopes with wildflower seeds as favours for our guests. One of the most special gifts was the wedding dress my lifelong friend Hanna Meredith made for me. My mum created my lace headband, and she and my cousin also made the most beautiful cake. The reception at the surf club overlooked the stunning beach. We drank local wine and danced the night away to a 12-piece Pacifica reggae band. For our first dance, I did a quick change into my mum’s wedding gown as a surprise and tribute to her. It was the funniest, most relaxed and personal day we could have imagined. We all stayed locally that night and had a fresh seafood barbecue at my parents’ bach the next day. Photos by Mike Limmer
More real weddings…
|