Both graphic designers, this creative duo were together for 11 years, and engaged for a whopping five, before they finally decided to tie the knot in their super private, New Zealand elopement. So private, there were only three guests! “We have been trying to simplify our lives over the last 12 months, so eloping felt like it was the right thing to do,” explains Amy. “It meant Adrian and I (and our parents) could simply enjoy the moment.” There to capture it all was Wild & Grace and boy are we grateful. The bride and groom ooze character and check out the epic scenery! Scroll down to read all about it…
THE VENUE “We chanced upon the Bay of Islands and with our huge love of nature and the great outdoors, thought it would be the perfect place for us to elope! We have spent many of our best moments together adventuring in the wilderness. We both love the ocean, Adrian is an avid free diver/ spear fisherman and I am really into hiking, swimming and yoga. We feel that our photographer, Wild & Grace really captured this side of our relationship on the day.”
FAVOURITE DETAILS “It was important for us to craft a ceremony that was unique to us and just the way we wanted it. We hand made the arch together from drift wood gathered the day before the ceremony from the beach below the property and picked flowers and green from the property to style it. We also wore Adrian’s grandparents’ watches, that hadn’t been worn together for over 20 years.”
THE DRESS “I bought my dress from Lover four years ago. I initially I saw it on Pinterest and knew it was the one after trying it on, so purchased it then and there, well before know when, or where we would get married. It draws from 1930s inspiration in its lace work and styling, so I knew it would look classic and elegant, no matter if we got married in a garden or on a beach.”
A WORD OF ADVICE “Don’t be afraid to elope! At the end of the day, it’s about celebrating your love for each other. Always be each others Lovers, but more importantly each others Best Friends.”
STANDOUT VENDORS “Our celebrant Melanie Vezey was instantly warm and kind. When it came time to marry us, we felt like she really knew who we are and what our love and relationship is about- I don’t feel like many other couples would have this kind of bond with their celebrant. Katherine, our kindred-spirit photographer from Wild & Grace. Being such a small wedding, every person there brought energy with them and our photographer was a complete testament to that. Seeing her running around and being everywhere and nowhere intrusively was a talent all in itself!”
CONTRIBUTING VENDORS Photographer Wild & Grace Florist Mint Floral Ceremony & Reception Beach House Bay of Islands Celebrant Melanie Vezey BRIDE Bridal Gown Lover Hair Laurel Stratford Makeup Lynnette Watson GROOM Suit Politix Shoes R.M. Williams