Location: Queenstown, New Zealand
Setting: Garden
Wedding season: Early Spring
How long did the couple plan the event: 15 Months
The number of guests: 85
Wedding theme/style: Modern, spring, garden.
Sam and Dan first connected online, but their first face-to-face meeting happened by pure chance about 6-7 months later. Sam was walking with one of her best friends past a bar in Melbourne when she noticed Dan sitting outside. They both caught each other’s eye. Instantly, Dan messaged her, asking if it was her who had just walked past him. This accident led to a real-life romance.
During their trip to Peregrine Beach in Noosa, Queensland, Dan said that it is a whale sighting season and went to check the beach as it was the best spot for it. It turned out there were no whales, but a the cutest little set up by Noosa Picnics, where Dan asked Sam to marry him. Now the couple have a funny little joke about whale sightings. What a memorable and fun way to get engaged!
The wedding took place in Queenstown, New Zealand, a location that holds special significance for the couple as one of their first holiday destinations together. The tail end of winter and the onset of spring provided a stunning natural backdrop for the event. The garden setting of Winehouse, surrounded by the breathtaking landscape, offered an intimate atmosphere for the 85 guests who came celebrate with them from different countries—Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and Thailand. The couple chose to get married on a Friday so their guests could make a trip of it, being a destination wedding for many.
The morning was all about anticipation and joy. Sam’s dress, a stunning creation by Sassi Holford from Bleubelle Bridal, was elegant and perfect for their classy theme of the wedding. Her bridesmaids looked amazing dressed in chic styles that each choose for themselves, so that they can feel confident and beautiful. Liv King and Beautiful bridal hair created the soft, subtle and natural looks for the bride and her party.
Dan wore a sharp, custom-made suit from YSG Tailors in Melbourne. His suit was stylish and fitted the wedding’s timeless look really well.
The bride’s walk down the aisle was made even more special with their friend Jessie’s angelic singing, creating a heartfelt moment for all. Children in white dresses scattered rose petals along the aisle, adding a romantic touch. In a striking contrast, the bridesmaids wore black dresses, an unconventional yet stylish and clean choice the couple shared.
The ceremony concluded with a passionate kiss against a stunning mountain backdrop. Capturing these moments, the videographer Emily at Woven Images provided a raw footage film, ensuring that the couple and their guests could relive this memorable day.
During the cocktail hour, guests enjoyed champagne while the bride and groom took part in a lively photo session with friends and family. In a moment of tradition, the bride threw her bouquet to the bridesmaids, a fun and cherished moment.
Before heading to the reception, the couple took a little time for themselves, strolling through the stunning grounds of the Winehouse. Their photographer, Kate Roberge, was exceptional as always, creating a comfortable atmosphere and skillfully directing the newlyweds. She captured stunningly beautiful, timeless photographs that showcased modern, clean, and crisp aesthetics against the backdrop of breathtaking mountain nature.
From the couple: “We took inspiration from traditional classic weddings, as we wanted to be able to look back in 20-30 years time and still love our wedding”.
Sam and Dan’s wedding reception beautifully reflected their desire for a timeless and classic celebration. They chose a simple and elegant decor, primarily in white, with subtle hints of soft lavender adding a touch of color and charm. The tables were adorned with little blue flowers, a delicate and cute accent that complemented the overall theme. Warm lights strung across the ceiling created a cozy and inviting atmosphere, ensuring that their special day would remain a cherished and stylish memory for decades to come.
The atmosphere during the reception was lively and joyful. Sam and Dan’s wish for a big party was fulfilled, as the live band and saxophonist brought an undeniable energy to the dance floor, making it an unforgettable night of fun and joy for everyone.
The photographer Kate Roberge captured Sam and Dan’s wedding with a calm, intimate, and tender touch, the photos radiating a soft and soothing vibe. Each image, with its beautiful colors and composition, brought to life the cheerful moments shared by the couple and their guests. Looking through the photos, we could even feel the charming atmosphere of this day.
Advice from the couple:
• Don’t worry about anything or anyone on the day, go with the flow and live in the moment, everything will fall into place, and if something does go wrong or doesn’t happen according to plan, it’s not worth letting it upset you on such a special day.
• Create a photography list and if you’re on the fence about deciding whether or not to have a videographer, book the videographer! – you will not regret it.
• Enjoy every moment! Make time to spend together just the two of you to soak up being married, whether that be during portraits or on the dancefloor! It’s the best.
PHOTOGRAPHER Kate Roberge | VENUE Winehouse | VIDEOGRAPHER Woven Images | DRESS Bleubelle Bridal | HEELS Harlo | MUAH Liv King & Beautiful bridal hair | ATTIRE YSG Tailors | SHOES Aquila | FLORAL The Flower Room | CAKE Sophie Rosana Cakes | STATIONARY Xelastudio
