Sometimes the traditional wedding mold doesn't always fit — and that’s exactly where the magic happens! After building a life together first, Cath and Tom celebrated their "I do’s" in a vibrant, summer cocktail-style wedding with their gorgeous girls by their side, prioritising authenticity and family. From the bride’s sequin gown and DIY stationery to the home-style cakes and sound of joyful tambourines, every element was a unique nod to their love story. Cath tells us more…

Tom and I met in our early 30s, when life was easy-going and carefree. We both had a quiet sense on our first (Tinder) date that something special was unfolding. I never expected it would grow into a proposal, two beautiful daughters, and, most recently, a stunning summer wedding surrounded by all our favourite people.

In true non-traditional style, we bought a house and welcomed our first child before the proposal. Unbeknownst to me, Tom had sourced a topaz from a gemologist in the US and worked with Auckland jeweller Julian Barton to design a bespoke ring based on a photo I’d taken in an antique jewellery store.

He proposed at Waihī Beach, catching me completely off guard - a perfect, emotional surprise.

We always knew we wanted a summer wedding, outdoors and near the beach. With guests travelling from overseas and two young children, logistics soon won out over the dream of “a huge beach celebration.” Instead, we found a venue that gave us those breathtaking ocean views with a little more comfort and ease.

Vanderosa Farms, just outside of Leigh, ticked all the boxes. The scenery was beautiful, on-site accommodation made things easy for childcare, and the area gave guests the chance to turn it into a full weekend away.

I always pictured a DIY-style wedding, though I underestimated the effort required while parenting and working full-time. Thankfully, we found some amazing suppliers who helped bring the vision to life — a summer cocktail-style wedding with relaxed beach vibes. My very talented brother, Danny, designed all our stationery — invites, menus, welcome signs, table numbers and more.

We leaned into bold, vibrant colours: summer yellow, purples and blues, peach and a hint of red. My bouquet matched the invites, and the reception tables were brightened by florals softened with white ribbon. I wanted the day to have some formalities, but still reflect the space, the outdoors, and my love of colour.

We added a few fun touches, including a large symbolic print for guests to sign (now framed in our home), tambourines alongside confetti for the ceremony, and a collection of home-style cakes from a local Omaha-based caterer in place of a traditional wedding cake. I love the look of formal cakes, but we wanted something guests would genuinely want to devour — without the sugar crash!

Outfit-wise, we kept things fairly classic. Tom wore a tuxedo with patent leather Oxfords. I found my dress from Canadian designer & For Love, known for modern, minimalist designs with a bit of rebellious romance. That felt like a little nod to my younger self. I loved the low back and subtle sequins that sparkled in the sun. After two kids and a body that’s evolved over time, this dress made me feel beautiful and feminine again.

Our original plan was to have a full bridal party, but over the two years of engagement, we decided to keep it simple — just the two of us and our girls. They wore adorable flower girl dresses, of course. Fresh flower crowns were the plan, though one wore hers proudly and the other just... stayed cute.

We were lucky to be introduced to our celebrant, Donna Brookbanks. With a background in acting and comedy, she delivered a ceremony that was heartfelt, personal, and full of laughter. She had this brilliant way of keeping us grounded as the emotions came flooding in.

We had realistic expectations about how the kids might behave — and they clung to us nearly the entire time. Even with all their favourite people around, they weren’t keen to let go. I’m grateful I wore a dress I could move in (and carry a two-year-old in), with a glass of bubbles in hand. At one point, I found myself negotiating with my four-year-old that yes, she needed to go to the babysitter, just as we were about to start our couple photos. Sometimes not even the aunties, uncles, or Nana can convince a preschooler to leave a party they’re enjoying.

The reception was everything we’d hoped for — tear-jerking speeches, a glowing sunset, and a full dance floor. Alongside food and location, finding the right band was a top priority, and Off the Wall absolutely delivered.

We started the day setting up flowers and chairs and ended it with an 11pm finish — perfect after a full-on, joy-filled celebration. The next morning, we hosted a laid-back lunch with family and friends back at the venue to keep the party going just a little longer.

Looking back, the day itself felt flawless, though behind the scenes there was stress and some unplanned chaos. Some quick pivots were needed, including a near-miss on catering — but we got through it, and the end result felt authentic, warm, and true to us.

Getting married after you’ve had children, bought a house, and hit your 40s is a big decision, but I’m so glad we did it. I hope other couples in a similar stage of life read this and feel reassured that it can be done — beautifully. Sharing the day with our daughters’ involvement, seeing their pure delight, and now hearing them ask if we can “all get married again” makes it all the more special and meaningful to us.