Location: Wanaka, New Zealand
Setting: Vineyard
Season: Summer
How long did the couple plan the event: 18 months
The number of guests: 108
Wedding theme/style: Elegant vineyard wedding with modern, intimate touches.
In the serene and picturesque town of Wanaka, New Zealand, Kate and Tom celebrated their love in a relaxed and heartwarming ceremony that perfectly encapsulated their journey together. In 2019, they welcomed their twin daughters, Delilah and Birdie, into the world. From that moment, their lives intertwined in a way destined to last forever. With his calm and steady demeanor, Tom perfectly balanced Kate’s spirited and organized nature, creating a harmonious and loving partnership.
Tom’s proposal to Kate was a simple yet profound moment in their front yard just before picking up their daughters from kindergarten. This intimate and meaningful gesture set the tone for a wedding that celebrated home, family, and the love that binds them together.
The lovebirds planned their wedding for about 18 months, with Kate enthusiastically collaborating with Alexandra Kate Creative Studios to bring their vision to life. The couple wanted their wedding to reflect their personalities and their love story. The result was a day that felt warm, sophisticated, and fun, with elements of tradition mixed with a garden vibe.
Alexandra handled the planning and styling with expertise and creativity. Kate said, “I was really just hyping Alex up the whole time and making things look pretty, saying yay and nay, creating the vision with her, having fun designing my dream dress, the girls’ dresses, and enjoying the things I could control.“
Kate’s wedding dress was a labor of love. It was inspired by her mother’s veil adorned with rosettes, which were also incorporated into the bodice of her dress. Designed and made by Brooke Tyson, who also created dresses for Kate’s daughters and mother, the dress was a vision of timeless elegance. Kate’s look was completed with her hair slicked back, a natural makeup look, and Gucci slingbacks that added a touch of modernity to her classic ensemble.
The bridesmaids looked stunning in their elegant, pistachio green dresses designed by Paris Georgia. The sleek, satin fabric draped beautifully, complementing each bridesmaid’s figure and exuding modern sophistication. The asymmetrical neckline added a touch of contemporary flair, while the subtle ruching enhanced the overall elegance of the look.
I wanted my baby girls to see their mum as a bit of a princess for a day but a chic one, of course. I know I look and feel my best with my hair slicked back, so that's what we did & my makeup artist was amazing - I didn't have to give any direction here, just told her to work her magic for a timeless look.
When Kate asked her girls what they wanted their dresses to be like they said “Mum it had to swish when we twirl.”
Tom and his groomsmen looked dapper in their classic black tuxedos. Tom stood out in a crisp white shirt, black bow tie, and sleek black suit from Craine Brothers. The groomsmen matched perfectly, creating a cohesive and stylish look. Their sharp appearance and genuine smiles perfectly captured the excitement and heartfelt emotions of the celebration.
The couple were lucky enough to use the beautiful Akitu Vineyard, a family friend’s home, now a proud Alexandra Creative exclusive venue. With its breathtaking views and serene ambiance, the vineyard offered the perfect setting for a wedding that was both intimate and grand. The height of Wanaka summer provided a breezy blue sky day, setting the stage for a celebration filled with joy, laughter, and heartfelt moments.
As the ceremony time approached, the well-dressed guests eagerly gathered. Conversations flowed effortlessly, but all eyes were on the path the bride would soon walk. Each guest anticipated the moment when Kate would make her grand entrance, and the celebration of love would start.
As the ceremony began, all eyes turned to the vintage black Ford that drove up, carrying the beautiful bride. Kate stepped out, radiating elegance, and was soon joined by her twin daughters, Delilah and Birdie, who played significant roles in the ceremony. The girls walked down the aisle hand-in-hand with two of Kate’s best friends, creating a heartwarming and emotional moment for everyone in attendance.
One of the most touching moments of the day was Kate’s vow to Tom, which perfectly encapsulated their love and the journey they’ve shared. Her words beautifully encapsulated the journey they had shared and the profound love she felt for him. She also spoke of the impact Tom had on their daughters.
The greatest part of you is what you have given our girls. They are kind and considerate because of you. They care and feel deeply because of you and have only ever known a life filled with love because of you. They say 'I love you' to each other and us a hundred times a day because of your example, and I couldn't ask for more. I am proud of the young Tom I met all those years ago. I am proud of Tom, who became Dad, and I'm so very proud of Tom, who I get to marry today. We have walked a path I wouldn't want to walk with anyone else, and as long as we continue to walk together, we will never walk alone.
Tom’s heartfelt words echoed the sentiments felt by everyone present. Kate recalled, “Tom opened up about his struggles with mental health in his speech and how I was a light in his life from the day I walked into it, which not only made me bawl my eyes out but was a wonderful moment for him and us to reflect on how far he’d come.“
After the ceremony, the wedding party gathered for photos amidst the picturesque vineyard, capturing the joy and elegance of the day. The newlyweds stood radiantly together, surrounded by their bridesmaids and groomsmen. The bridesmaids’ pistachio green dresses and the groomsmen’s classic black tuxedos created a harmonious and stylish contrast against the lush green vines. The warm sun and stunning mountainous backdrop added to the beauty of each shot, making the moments even more memorable.
The floral arrangements, curated by Kate’s best friend and creative genius behind Floral Centric, were spectacular. Kate’s and bridesmaids’ bouquets were perfect, and the blossoms added a touch of elegance and beauty to the celebration.
The styling of the wedding was a true reflection of Kate and Tom’s tastes. The dark wood, striped linens, and touches of on-trend moments like bows and silverware were meticulously chosen to create a chic and comfortable ambiance. Kate, a florist by profession, trusted the professionals to do what they do best, leading to stunning results that exceeded their expectations.
The reception was filled with laughter and heartfelt toasts as friends and family celebrated the couple’s love and shared journey. The speeches, particularly by the Maid of Honor and Best Man, were some of the best their guests had ever heard, adding to the day’s emotional and joyous atmosphere.
The wedding was a four-day affair, starting with a rehearsal dinner and culminating in a celebration filled with family, friends, and heartfelt moments. The unique aspects of their wedding included a private gin tower ceremony, a cake served on the second day, and a bridal party featuring couples who were part of their close-knit circle.
Each photo taken during golden hour radiated a genuine sense of intimacy and connection. Tom and Kate, hand in hand, shared quiet moments and tender kisses that were beautifully immortalized against the backdrop of the setting sun.
The entire event was a testament to Kate and Tom’s love and dedication to each other and their family. From the personal touches in the decor to the emotional speeches and heartfelt vows, every element of the wedding reflected the deep connection they shared. It was a day filled with sincere moments, genuine joy, and a profound sense of togetherness that left a lasting impression on all who attended.
Advice from the couple:
• As I’m sure everyone says, control the controllable and remember what you’re doing this for—you and your partner. Stick together as much as you can, and remember you’re the guest of honor, not the host.
PLANNER Alexandra Kate Creative Studios | PHOTOGRAPHER Sapphire Studios | VIDEOGRAPHER Flatroc Films | VENUE Akitu, exclusively through Alexandra Kate Creative Studios | MARQUEE Flagship Events | FLORALS Floral Centric | RENTALS Flock, Royal Laboratorie, QWH, Blank Space Events | LINEN Tble Linen | GOWN Ritual by Brooke Tyson | BRIDESMAIDS’ DRESSES Paris Georgia | TUXEDO Craine Brothers
