Since graduating in 2010 they moved back to China and now live in Shanghai. They are getting married there at the end of the year, but not before a trip back here to New Zealand where their love began. 

This brings us to an email I thought couldn't possibly be true.  Shan found our little blog, all the way over there in China, and decided that she wanted US to photograph them for their pre wedding photos here in New Zealand.  We read the email, answered it and then dismissed it as one of those emails, because A) I had never heard of the custom of having a pre wedding shoot and B) It seemed fanciful thinking that they would choose us!  BUT wait!  It was absolutely true! 

Seems that this small town girl needed to learn a thing or two about Asian wedding traditions!  So just in case anyone else is as naive as I, here's the lowdown:

Here in New Zealand it is customary to have our photos taken during the wedding day.  However, in Asia it is quite normal to have a pre wedding shoot.  The couple, and in this case much of their bridal party, get dressed into wedding clothes and create images that will be displayed at their wedding. 

I was in heaven.  We had time.  Hours of time.  We made the most of the fabulous Marlborough scenery and wandered from place to place following the light and getting to know each other as we went.    

Once again Deirdre delivered the goods in both Shan's hair and makeup, as well as providing a beautiful starting point to our photographic adventures.

I loved showing off our amazingly beautiful province.  I loved the fact that the rain that had been taunting us for days disappeared and left us with a crisp and beautiful freshness in the air.  I loved how Shan and Aaron were fully into it.  Like, really into it.  I mean, coming ALL THE WAY FROM CHINA kind of into it.  This was my happy place.  I never wanted to leave.

Aaron is one seriously cool guy, and he's a lover of photography, which makes him even cooler.

Beautiful ladies!

After our play at Locks and Lashes we headed over to Old St Mary's Convent.  I knew the trees would be all kinds of cool, and as the light softened up as sunset approached I knew things would only get better.  And they did!

I called out for them to act like they'd just won the Lotto.  I think they'd be happy...

I can't actually remember what it was that I said that got this reaction.  Maybe it was just the fact that I was lying in the foetal position and they had no idea what this crazy photographer was going to do next!

And then back to the romantic stuff.  Shan and Aaron have such a natural and happy way with each other.  It's beautiful to watch.

Shan, your gorgeous smile was the first thing I noticed about you. 

And then the race was on.  The sun was setting and we had to get across town to THE TREE.  It was worth the effort.  The light was sublime!

Shan and Aaron are clearly beautiful on the outside, but they are also beautiful on the inside and that's what makes for lovely images!

Just like a fairy tale!

As we were walking along the track people passing would nod and say 'hello'.  To me this is just normal.  But Aaron commented on how friendly everyone is here.  Thank you Blenheim folk!

Turns out Shanghai boasts 13 Million people.  That's a lot of people.  If you walk to the supermarket you're not likely to ever see anyone you know.  That would weird me out.

And then, after the sun had set, we headed over to Wither Hills Winery where they were to have a celebration dinner.  They had a room to themselves, all set up, beautifully warm and the fire was crackling.  The ladies got dressed into something less formal and a lovely relaxed day slipped into a lovely and relaxed evening. 

Before we said our goodbyes (rather reluctantly, might I add!) we wanted to do something just that little bit special for Aaron and Shan.  In China it is rare to see the stars, yet in little 'ol Blenheim they are out for all to see.  Paul was super keen to create this image which included the stars shining brightly.  I think he's done an amazing job!

Shan and Aaron, it was an amazing experience to spend the afternoon with you and your friends.  We feel super privileged to have been given the opportunity not only to photograph you, but also to get to know you.  If ever we find ourselves in Shanghai we will be sure to look you up!

Vendor Shoutout:

Hair & Makeup and Photo location #1: Deirdre, Locks & Lashes

Photo location #2: Old St Mary's Convent

Photo location #3 : The Tree, Harling Park

Dinner and Photo location #4: Wither Hills Winery

This gorgeous poem by Ogden Nash had me smiling wide as wide can be during Joanne and Ian's beautiful wedding ceremony.  The day that Joanne and Ian promised to "have and to hold," was beautifully organised, down to the finest detail.  It was a day filled with friends and family that came from as far away as Europe! 

The day began for me at Chateau Marlborough where Joanne and her girls got dressed.

Gorgeous hair and makeup by Deirdre at Locks and Lashes.  Joanne, you have the most beautiful porcelain skin!

Sipping water through a straw means you don't mess up your lipstick!

Beautiful beautifulness!

Flowers by Nina at Pink Poppie.  I think these may be my favourites to date!  The blue ring on the left belongs to Joanne's Grandmother and is her 'something blue'.

As Dad walks in to see his daughter as a bride, the smile is unmistakeable!

Meanwhile, Paul is with the boys.  Mum helps with the finishing touches as Ian gets ready.

The boys had a surprise wedding car for Ian - the Defender Land Rover!  Ian grew up with one just like it on the farm, and has happy memories surrounding it.  Even if sometimes it struggled to get up the hill!

I suppose it would be much like a yellow combi van would be for me.  We had one when I was a kid.  My Dad was a spray painter and painted it canary yellow and I was painfully embarrassed by it, yet how cool would that be to have it now?  Seriously cool!

Also seriously cool, Joanne's groom, Ian.

The wedding and reception were held at The Winery Riverlands (formally Montana) which was the perfect location as the weather was looking a little bit dodgy and having an indoor location so close at hand was just great.  Thankfully the weather held up, and gave us some lovely soft light to work with.

And here comes the bride!

I love this little look that Joanne is giving Ian.

"Far and wide, far and wide,
I can walk with you beside;

Furthermore, I tell you what,
I sit and sulk where you are not.

Visitors remark my frown
Where you're upstairs and I am down,

Yes, and I'm afraid I pout
When I'm indoors and you are out;

But how contentedly I view
Any room containing you.

In fact I care not where you be,
Just as long as it's with me."

"In all your absences I glimpse
Fire and flood and trolls and imps.

Is your train a minute slothful?
I goad the stationmaster wrothful.

When with friends to bridge you drive
I never know if you're alive,

And when you linger late in shops
I long to telephone the cops.

Yet how worth the waiting for,
To see you coming through the door.

Somehow, I can be complacent
Never but with you adjacent."

"Near and far, near and far,
I am happy where you are;

Likewise I have never larnt
How to be it where you aren't.

Then grudge me not my fond endeavor,
To hold you in my sight forever;

Let none, not even you, disparage
Such a valid reason for a marriage."

Paul captured this wonderful image of four generations!  That, right there, is a legacy image.  I love it.

Then it was off to the Malthouse for some more photos.

Since Joanne and Ian met they have flown 58,000km over the last six years just to spend time together. That's the price you pay when you fall in love with someone in a different town! Thankfully they now both live in Wellington and trips away will now be leaving together, and coming home together! Their first trip as a married couple will be to Rarotonga!

There was no lack of smiles and laughter from this lot!

Then back to The Winery Riverlands where Joanne's meticulous planning pays off. 

And so let the dancing begin!

Ian's ring was made from gold that his grandfather mined and put aside for all of his grandsons.  How special to have such a beautiful piece of heritage on your finger!

But wait!  There's MORE!

Unfortunately the light ran out on the wedding day, and the combination of no light and no time left us with no beautiful scenic shots of Marlborough.  Not to worry though!  The next day was completely gorgeous, and so Joanne and Ian got dressed up again and we went and did some more playing!

Deirdre was kind enough to let us come and use her amazing property to get the shots that finish the story.  I was in my happy place!

How is this for an amazingly impressive dress?

I LOVE next day shoots!  We got the best of both worlds, the soft light of an overcast day on their wedding, and a postcard beautiful Marlborough day the next day.  It's win win!

Ian and Joanne, thank you so much for choosing us to capture your beautiful wedding.  Have a fantastic (and warm!) time in Rarotonga!

Vendor Shoutout:

Venue/Catering: Justine and her amazing team at The Winery Riverlands

Hair & Makeup: Deirdre, Locks & Lashes

Flowers: Nina, Pink Poppie Designer Florist

Celebrant: Archdeacon Danny Te Hiko

Dress: Astra Bridal

Suits: Sergios, Merivale

Cake: Kiss and Bake Up

The kind of right that sees a gorgeous young couple like Monique and Liam finding each other, falling in love and getting engaged. 

Liam asked Monique to marry him on the banks of the river, after a long walk in her 'inappropriate shoes' she was wondering where on earth they were going.  They were going to get engaged, that's where!

Next January they're getting married and we'll be there to take photos!  Woohoo!

Thanks Monique and Liam for taking the time to come and have some fun with me!  Bring on January!  We'll be there with bells on!

This will be the second wedding we've been privileged enough to photograph in Sarah's family.  Last year, almost exactly a year ago, we captured her brother's wedding (Jeff and Frith here!)  It always warms our heart to be asked back, and we love catching up with familiar faces in the crowd!  I'm sorry if that means you've now heard my jokes twice.

Sarah and her girls had to be the calmest, most organised I've ever seen on a wedding day!  We had time to spare and because everything was onsite, there was no travelling.  Perfect!

Beautiful tulips by Nina at Pink Poppie.  We're not normally lucky enough to have tulips as wedding flowers.  Need I say it again?  YAY for Autumn weddings!

Sarah, you are beautiful!  I heard comments all day about how drop dead gorgeous you were!

Over with the boys and Paul learns about some of Darren's loves.  Obviously Sarah foremost, his helicopter and cider.  I've heard a rumour that his iPhone is usually not too far away at any given time as well!

Darren gets ready to meet his bride.

The morning had threatened us with rain, but as seems to be the tradition this year at Te Mahia, the sun broke through just at the right moment!

I love how they're looking at each other.  Completely happy.

Hello beautiful light, so nice of you to come!

It was the first of April when Darren asked Sarah to marry him.  It was an immediate yes, although neither of them realised it was April fools day until they called the family to share the good news.  When I asked if she had thought it might be a joke, she said "Well, if it was, it certainly wasn't by the end of the day!"  Nope, it definitely was not a joke - it was the real deal! 

Darren is a trained bee keeper, having done most of his apprenticeship in the Sounds he's really grown to love being surrounded by the beautiful scenery.  Who can blame him?   Since then he's created a successful honey company - sweeeeet!

This bridal party were a lot of fun, and always ready with a joke!

Beautiful beautifulness!

Darren rocking the 'come hither' look.

There is this fun chess board at Te Mahia, and although neither Sarah or Darren know how to play chess, they sure made it look good!  That is some lovely bling!

The cake was a cheese cake.  Like, literally, a cake made of cheese.  That has to be one of the most seriously cool things! 

Another seriously cool thing about this reception were the Teppanyaki Queens.  Supremely yummy food brought out continuously through the evening.  These ladies turn up with their own cooking facilities and cook and serve.

It was a major hit.

Darren and Sarah are a relaxed, friendly and welcoming couple and it was a real joy to get to know them a little bit!

Flip Side rocked the night away.

Sarah and Darren, thank you so very much for sharing your special day with us.  We had such fun with you and your guests! 

Vendor Shoutout:

I find my couples are like that.  We email and occasionally chat on the phone, and then, one day we meet and have an E Session and I hear all about their story and get all excited about their upcoming wedding.  And then we're friends.  We're trying crazy stuff and laughing about how Brooke just about got soaked by a wave and I'm learning a bit about what an immunologist does.  I even get to ask her about some of my conspiracy theories.  I find out how their story began and before long the sun is setting and there is a FULL MOON just begging us for a couple of final shots.

E Sessions (or prewedding shoots if it's just before the wedding!) are more than just a time to get photos.  It's about us getting to know each other.  It's about learning how the couple interact with each other and with us.  It's about picking up their vibe and finding out WHO they are and what they like.  It also gives us a chance to take more photos, and goodness knows we LOVE to take photos!

Fully awesome SUPER HERO series here.  Kevin totally saved the day, and Brooke's shoes from getting soaked!

Paul wanted to do some playing with the flashes, so while he was setting up the camera for the light and the colour I grabbed this shot.  Gotta love how these three can just WORK IT at a split second's notice!

Brooke - you are simply stunning!

And Kevin you're pretty studly yourself!

And together you're pretty darn cute!

Hello there FULL moon!  You guys look fierce!

Thanks Brooke and Kevin for letting us play and for growing our hearts just that little bit more.  See you in SPRING!

Hayley and Fergus had both moved to England from abroad, Fergus from South Africa, and Hayley from New Zealand.  Originally worlds apart, yet within weeks they had fallen madly and deeply in love.  They were married within a year in beautiful Mauritius, and then there was this, their second wedding, here in Blenheim.  And we were lucky enough to be able to photograph it!

The weather could not have been better for a wedding.  Sunny, fresh and the light was to die for.  I love April. 

Gorgeous, GORGEOUS bride!

More beautiful flowers by Nina at Pink Poppie!

Fergus, born and raised in South Africa, went to England to have a look around for a few months... ten years later he's still there.  Good thing he hung around though, or he would never have met his gorgeous wife!

The ceremony was held at the ever beautiful Old St Mary's Convent. 

It simply could not have been a more stunning day, beautiful happy people and lots of smiles.  I think they may have been laughing at one of my jokes.  That makes it an even better day!

If you were to ask me what is my favourite time of year for weddings... (go on, ask)  I would most definitely say Autumn.  Autumn has the most beautiful colours, it's cooler than the hot Summer months (ahem, in a good year!) and the sun sets early so the golden time of the day is usually when we're having our portraits.  It also means the sun often sets before the reception, again, perfect for photos!  As long as you have a solid wet/cold weather plan as back up, you simply can't find a more beautiful time of year.

Hayley has the most beautiful engagement ring, but that didn't come till a little bit after Fergus asked her to marry him. When he proposed, he did it with toast. Toast cut into a ring shape. 

Hayley is a school teacher, and she tells me that she adores her students, and I can imagine they adore her right back!  I think school teachers deserve a special medal or something. It really does take a special kind of person to do that job!

Fergus is sweet, quiet and hardworking.  Apparently he hasn't had a sick day in 10 years!  That's pretty impressive!

So I had this crazy idea to put them in the little boat.  None of my brides have ever gone in the convent boat before in their wedding dress, so always on the lookout for something new and interesting, I suggested the boat.  Hayley and Fergus were good to go!  We were all aware of the clear and present danger of actually falling into the water, and still everyone was keen to give it a whirl. Even Paul, my voice of reason, seemed keen to get the shot.  (Even though I knew he'd be quietly freaking out)

Not to worry!  Boating is a breeze for these two lovebirds!

Check out the gorgeous light!  Have I made my point about Autumn yet? 

Although I could have shot at Old St Mary's Convent for hours more, we headed off to Wither Hills Winery for a few more shots before the reception began.

Autumn's beautiful light and colours continued into sunset.  Paul spotted this fantastic location in the vineyard.  I'd love to claim it as my own, but alas, I cannot.

Again, the benefits of being married to what used to be a property photographer.  You rock babe! 

Inside Wither Hills, and things are set up beautifully.

Fergus and Hayley, thank you for sharing your fantastically gorgeous day with us.  And if you happen to feel the need to have a third wedding in some exotic amazing place, feel free to pack us into your suitcases and bring us along!

Vendor Shoutout:

Some people like each other so much that they like to have TWO weddings. Hayley and Fergus were married last year in Mauritius, a small private wedding with just the two of them and their parents. Beautiful, personal and just what they wanted. But they also wanted a slightly bigger wedding with their family and friends, and tomorrow is the day! And we can't wait!

For those of you who are still left thinking, "where the heck is Mauritius?" like I initially did, it is 870km from Madagascar.  Does that help?  Off the southeast coast of Africa.  It's a beautiful Island and a fantastic place for a holiday, and a wedding apparently!  It was also the only home of the now extinct Dodo bird.  For those of you playing at home. 

So watch this space next week!  Hayley and Fergus are both gorgeous and crazy in love.  It's going to be beautiful!

This has to be the most interesting wedding invitation I have ever seen!  Although, I must say, they are hardly a giantess and a monster in real life!

The ladies got ready at the ever beautiful Locks and Lashes.

Once again Deirdre waved her magic wand (magic brush?) and produced something rather fairytale worthy!

I love the girls reaction to the flowers as they were brought in.

And you can see why!  They were absolutely beautiful!  A fantastic job done by Flowertime on Scott St.

*CUTE KID ALERT!*

This is Ava, Michelle's niece.  She's 2.  I like her.

So does Michelle!

This is Will, her big brother.  He's 4.  I like him too.

It's kids like Ava and Will that threaten my resolve not to go for babies number 7 and 8.... almost.  At any rate, they are a real credit to you Louise and Clayton!

Something old, Grandma's hanky.

And the something blue is really quite awesome!

Michelle, the beautiful bride!

The ladies in their gorgeous dresses.

Meanwhile, Paul is with Simon and the boys as they get ready.

Loving the zippos with the family crest!

The wedding was held at what was quite possibly Marlborough's most interesting historical property, Riverbank Estate.  During World War II this beautiful but unassuming wooden farmhouse was surrounded by 2 meter high barbed wire fences and protected by armed guards.  Inside, locked away from the world, were 8 women intercepting enemy Morse code.  (humming a spy tune as I write this...)

Spying on German and Japanese submarines, these 8 women were vowed to secrecy, even for years after the war had ended. It wasn't until the early 80s that they were allowed to tell their story. One of the women, Bunty Longuet, had been married for 40 years before she was able to tell her husband what she had been involved in during the war. Turns out he too had been a member of the Secret Intelligence Service and was also sworn to secrecy. Pretty amazing.

Time for the bride to arrive!

I love how they are looking at each other.

Married!

Clara Van Wel is an amazing local talent.  Anybody that has already heard her knows exactly what I mean, she really is one in a million!  Type her name into Youtube and see what I mean.

Riverbank Estate is not only interesting historically, but it is absolutely AMAZING for portraits!  I can't believe we have been shooting in Blenheim for so long and have only just discovered it now! 

Simon is both a builder and a successful rugby player.  He even got a position over in Japan to play rugby for a few years.  That's pretty cool, if you ask me!

Then it was off to the Malthouse before arriving at the reception at The Winery Riverlands.

Beautiful Michelle! So beautiful I want to say beautiful slowly to emphasise the fact.... but it always looks weird when it's in print like this; beauuuuutiful. Ah, what the heck. I'll say it anyway. Beauuuuutiful Michelle!

My tummy did a funny little flip when I saw this one in the viewfinder.  Pretty sure it's a keeper!

Awesome fairytale seating chart!

These guys are so gorgeous, so modelesque (I invented a word right there). 

The Winery Riverlands, which used to be known as Brancott Estate, is such a great place to have a reception.

Michelle and Simon, thanks so much for letting us photograph your gorgeous day!  Wishing you guys all the very best for years and years and years to come!

Vendor Shoutout:

Peter and Libby's day was perfection.  Brimming with gorgeous details and beautiful friends and family, but most of all it was about their love.  It's the kind of love even a blind man could see.  The kind of love that had me hiding behind my camera in tears.  Several times. 

Libby's Mum and Dad have spent countless hours preparing the gardens, the marquee, the signs and the details to have their daughter's wedding at their home.  A labour of love I'm sure.

Meanwhile Paul is with the guys as they get ready for the big day.

Tie pins with everyone's initials, and the GPS co ordinates of the wedding ceremony.  It would be hard to be cooler than that.

Tying a tie seems to be quite tricky.  I must say, I'm glad I'm a girl because I think it would drive me crazy if I had to wear a tie!  Here the groomsmen get a lesson from Peter on how to tie a tie.

Some were able to pull it off fairly well.  Others clearly need more lessons.

Libby is beautiful.  Insanely beautiful.  Fairy tale beautiful.  Part Snow White, part Anne of Green Gables.

Gorgeous hair and makeup by the ladies at Locks and Lashes.

The boys had arrived outside and so the ladies hid inside and waited for their turn to come out.

And then it was time.

Peter watches as his beautiful bride arrives, reminding me of the Anne of Green Gables reading which Libby had selected for the ceremony.  Once again.  So perfect.

"But it was a happy and beautiful bride who came down the old, homespun-carpeted stairs that September noon--the first bride of Green Gables, slender and shining-eyed, in the mist of her maiden veil, with her arms full of roses. Gilbert, waiting for her in the hall below, looked up at her with adoring eyes. She was his at last, this evasive, long-sought Anne, won after years of patient waiting. It was to him she was coming in the sweet surrender of the bride. Was he worthy of her? Could he make her as happy as he hoped? If he failed her--if he could not measure up to her standard of manhood--then, as she held out her hand, their eyes met and all doubt was swept away in a glad certainty. They belonged to each other; and, no matter what life might hold for them, it could never alter that. Their happiness was in each other's keeping and both were unafraid."  Anne's House of Dreams.

And just like that, they're married.

You couldn't find a more respectable bunch of young people.  Most of them were originally friends from University.  Not being highly educated myself, I was a little bit worried about showing myself up in front of this group of seriously smart people.  Thankfully nobody asked me about theories, atoms, parts of speech or times tables.  Phew!

Then we took some time with just Libby and Peter.  It's lovely when we can steal our couples away for a few minutes before the reception.

Over the little lake on her parents property.  How gorgeous!

Check out Nina's amazing work!  Thank you Pink Poppie!

Peter grew up in Papua New Guinea, although originally a Kiwi.  He's gone on to be part of some pretty amazing things.  For example, right now, he's part of a team working on a way to grow cartilage for knees.  I know, right?  Way awesome.

Libby clearly knows how wonderful he is, but says he still manages to surprise her with how fantastic he is on a pretty regular basis.

But don't be fooled into thinking that Libby is just a pretty face!  She's a ballet and highland dancer, she's been into many sports, worked in a refugee centre, helped people overseas as well as having a colossal amount of academic achievements in law school and is working towards becoming a lawyer.  As her Dad put it, this girl is the complete package.

Together, they make an incredible team.

Then it was time to go back to the party.  The Waghorns know how to have a wedding, that's for sure!

The speeches were something else.  It was clear that these two young people had the most loving parents, amazing role models and beautiful families.  They're the kind of family that you want to go see at Christmas, and pretend that you're part of them too.

The rain was gently falling and it was dark outside.  Not the kind of night you would generally think of ice cream.  However, when Mr Whippy was mentioned there was almost a stampede.  150 people turned into 10 year old children, eyes aglow and smiles beaming.  It was magic.

Like a perfect fairytale, there was a kiss and there was dancing.  Beautiful dancing.

Libby and Peter, words aren't really adequate to say how grateful we are to have been chosen to capture your day.  We wish you guys many many years of happiness.  We're so thrilled to have been a little piece of your story.

Vendor Shoutout:

Thank you Deirdre and Mary Jane for your gorgeous work on the hair and makeup!  You guys rock!

This is their mean faces.  Peter looks frightening enough, but Libby still just looks cute.

The meanness didn't last long!

Libby and Peter, you can't even imagine how much I am looking forward to Saturday.  It's going to be all kinds of awesome!  See you soon!

We're small town folk, as I mentioned before, so it was super interesting watching the city folk in action.  In order to get in the zone, we practised our city faces in the mirror before we left.  How's this for 'Don't mess with me?!'

The funniest thing about the whole experience is that although we must have passed hundreds of people, almost no one even acknowledged the fact that Jane was wearing a wedding dress!  We even went shopping at Farmers and hardly got a second look.  It makes me wonder what is NORMAL in the big city? 

No one seemed to worry about the guy with a trolley and Tourette's syndrome, or the guy stealing ashtrays and foraging for a drink in the bin and then just pouring it all over the pavement, so a girl in a wedding dress buying pink fluffy jandles?  Meh.

Before he met Jane, Sam didn't even drink coffee, but since she introduced him to it, he's become somewhat of a coffee connoisseur.  And so, no stroll through town is complete without a stop at the Memphis Belle Coffee House.  Arguably the best coffee in Wellington, so I'm told.  It was extremely good coffee, just for the record!

Jane and awesome stuff seem to have a way of finding each other.  Check out the groovy glasses!

And then it was off to the parking building.  Turns out big city parking can look cool. 

REALLY cool!

Sam and Jane, you guys are all that and more.  We're so thrilled to call you our friends!  Can't wait to show you all of the rest of the photos!

Jane is an amazingly talented photographer in Wellington, Photography By Jane makes seriously cute images!  So when she first started making noises that she wanted us to photograph her wedding I was a little bit nervous and just a touch unsure as to why she would want us to travel from little old Blenheim!  We almost never travel, due to having a young family at home, but HOW can you turn down another photographer?  How HUGE an honour is that to even be asked? So we packed up our gear and headed to the BIG CITY. 

We're such small town folk.  I guess you just get used to the way things are in a small town.  People say "Hello" when they pass you on the street.  Everyone looks kind of familiar, and you always have to be on your best behaviour because you always recognise someone.  Not so in the big city.  Everyone seems like they're in a rush.  It's fascinating!  But anyway, I digress! 

This post is all about an insanely talented couple on a beautiful day, getting married.  And we were there, and I'm so so grateful that we were!

It was the kind of wedding where Grandma Audrey would bake three dozen scones for the guests.  I like that kind of wedding.  I also like Grandma Audrey.

It was a wedding held in Jane and Sam's backyard.  But this was no ordinary backyard wedding!  This was the most beautifully decorated area I think I've ever seen.  Painstakingly, over many months, Jane has been collecting treasures to make her vision come to life. 

Things that the rest of us would never think to put together, or even add to a wedding day, it all looked amazing.  And somehow I can't help but show too many images!  I'm all proud of them, almost like I created all of this myself.  Yet we were merely capturing it.

This is Bailey.  He obviously has his mother's sense of style.  a complete little hunklet (I totally made that word up, but I'm sticking with it!)  Check out the piano back there!  Yes.  Even a piano in the backyard!

Seating for the ceremony.

Jane arranged for Paul to bring Sam one of his gifts, and while he was reading his message, Jane watched from the house window.  They were ever so careful not to see each other before the ceremony!

Jane even made the button holes for the guys... 

...and the bouquets!  She MADE them! 

Ella gets last minute nails done.

Ella loves Sylvanian Families and so Jane made them some outfits to match hers and Sam's.  Of course.

Bailey wrote the most beautiful letter, he's such a cutie!

Final moments before they see each other!

You can tell how much they love each.  It's in the big things, but it's also in the little things, and quite often they're the big things, aren't they?  Sam is known to leave flowers on Jane's pillow, set up the tv with her favourite program and he makes her coffee every morning.  This man is a keeper! 

And then it's time to release the butterflies!

Married!

Home baked goodness. 

Sam loves to brew his own beer, and he and a friend managed to bottle 200 beers for the wedding!  How cool do they look?!  So cool.

We left the guests to their afternoon tea and mingling while we popped away for some photos.

Jane, you look incredible!

Sam and Jane are crazy.  Not the kind of crazy that you watch out of the corner of your eye because you're a little bit afraid, but the fun kind of crazy.  That's why I like them.

After our portrait session we headed on back to where everyone was still enjoying themselves.  The sun was setting and the Barbeque was getting started!

And who doesn't like a pet rat?  Well....ummmmm....

Fantastic speeches, and once again Jane comes up with more handmade goodness.  Prompt cards for the crowd!

The first dance was to Billie Jean, for which Sam has been famously quoted as saying it is "THE most dancible song ever!"

Groovy lighting effects as it came off the camera. 

Sparklers fun.  You can't not like sparklers!

Sam and Jane, you already know how much we like you and how much we enjoyed your day.  We are ever so grateful that you chose us to photograph your wedding!  We had an absolute blast!

BUT WAIT!  THERE'S MORE!  On Sunday morning Sam and Jane got all dressed up again and we hit the town before we had to catch our flight back home.  You'll need to watch out for those images they're still coming...

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Everything would go ahead as planned, outside with a beautiful view of the Marlborough Sounds.  We were all ever so grateful.

Girly details.

Paul gets the guys doing their thing. 

Manly details.

Blake is Luke's son, and OH so cute!  Being a boy, he might not want to be referred to as 'cute', but he did look dashing in his suit, that's for sure!

Just before Anna arrived down the aisle the sun peaked through the clouds and there was a delighted cheer from the crowd.

Three views of the processional.  Kate, our assistant, was shooting from the balcony.  I was shooting Anna and Dad as they were starting their walk towards Luke, and Paul was at the end of the aisle getting Luke's reaction.

Check out the colour of the suits!  How awesome do they look!  Everybody suited each other and the scenery absolutely perfectly.  Beautifully planned Anna!

Pure happiness.  I love it!

Hello SUNSHINE! 

This group of attendants were great fun.  I think I laughed all day.  They were a great bunch that kept things fun and light.  Luke and Anna didn't want to pick a Best Man and Chief Bridesmaid.  They wanted them to know that they were all as special as each other.

Anna, you are a hottie!

And Luke, you're not too bad yourself!  In fact, it was Luke's 'George Clooney good looks' that helped win Anna over!

Luke and Anna share a love for fishing, Snapper fishing, to be exact. Anna didn't realise how much she would enjoy it, until Luke introduced it to her and now it's what she loves too.

The marquee was amazingly decorated with shells and pearls and beautiful little details everywhere!  The amount of work that Anna put into this day was amazing, and the whole day went without a hitch!

The rings were amazing.  So amazing, in fact, that one photo will simply not do!

As the sun was setting behind the hills, and the sky put on a beautiful little show with puffy orange clouds, I simply couldn't resist luring Luke and Anna outside for a few more photos before the dancing began.

Another gorgeous dress by Bernadette Thomas.

Then the floor was cleared and more gorgeousness happened.

Fun happened too, everybody had an absolute blast!

Including us bouncing around the dance floor.  Paul (on the left there) even managed to get in on a photo! 

Beautiful, BEAUTIFUL Te Mahia after sunset. 

Luke and Anna, thank you so much for choosing us to capture your beautiful day for you.  We had so much fun and so many laughs!  We can't wait to show you the rest of the photos!

Vendor Shoutout:

Francesca got ready at her childhood home.  The home that her Dad built himself.  The home that witnessed childhood fun and tantrums, many teenage gatherings and now it held the wedding dress of the little girl that has been dreaming about this day for years. 

A gift basket arrived from Karl with flowers for not only Francesca, but each one of the bridesmaids as well.  I've never come across a groom who thought to give flowers to the bridesmaids.  The whole room melted from one side of the room to the other, much like a Mexican wave, there were sighs of "ahhhhh....."  Karl also thought to give Francesca ballet tickets.  A real act of selfless love if ever I've seen it!  Girls, if you've found a guy that will take you to the ballet, hold on to him with everything you've got!

It seemed to be a day of gifts! Francesca also had a bag of gifts for each bridesmaid.

Francesca positively glowed, so much beautifulness!

Meanwhile Paul is having some fun with Karl and the boys.

More gifts! 

Then arrived to the ceremony in style....

CHOPPPER RIDE!  Thanks to Willie who works with Karl as the head pilot at Sounds Air, who flew the Ridgeair R44 Helicopter to the ceremony.

It's a hard life for Paul when he has to travel like this...

The ceremony was held at the beautiful Ryland Estate.

Complete with doves!

Cutest shoe shot ever!

There are so many aspects to a processional that are worth photographing, and given a long enough walk we can capture all sorts of aspects.  The emotions the moment before...

The fairy-tale walk with Dad...

Guests reactions...

The groom, waiting for his bride to arrive...

and the proud-as-punch parents.  Both Karl and Francesca's parents have been married for several decades, and still remain happily married today.  What amazingly positive role models!

During the 'sign of love and peace' part of the ceremony.  I love this handshake by the two Dads.

And then, just as if the day was not already uber cool enough, the Nanchang plane flew above us doing tricks.

A fantastic surprise for all!

Happy beautiful people.

Then we headed off to Locks and Lashes for some creative portrait time.  Deirdre did an amazing job of the girl's hair and makeup that morning, and kindly let us come back for photos.  It's a fantastic location when the weather could go either way! 

Jaw dropping work by Bernadette Thomas on the dress. 

Then off to the beautifully decorated Wisheart Room for the reception.  Beautiful stationery by Leanne at Vanilla Hayes.

Sometimes a photo can look like it's just us and the couple, but often there is a very different story happening behind the camera.  For example, this is the image that I was capturing...

while this is what Paul was getting behind me.  I love it!

When there was a break in the traffic of speeches and delicious food, we snuck Francesca and Karl down to the theatre for a few parting shots.  Francesca has spent many hours in this theatre as a girl, and so we felt it was fitting to spend a few minutes here.

A massive thanks to Steve and Leanne from Posh Nosh for letting us sneak out while you kept their meals hot! 

And finally to Karl and Francesca, I was on a high driving home from your beautiful wedding.  We're so thrilled with everything about your day and wish you all the very best for your future together!

Vendor Shoutout:

This weekend Anna will marry Luke, and come rain or shine, we're going to have a GREAT day!  See you soon guys!

Gorgeous!

Duncan and Lorna's day was as special as they come.  It was filled with friends, family, heritage and beautiful smiles.  The biggest smiles belonged to Lorna and Duncan, every time they looked at each other they lit up.  This, of course, meant that we had endless opportunities to make beautiful images. 

Lorna and her girls arrived at Locks and Lashes bright eyed and bushy tailed and super excited about a most eventful day ahead of them.  Deirdre and Mary Anne did the most spectacular job of their hair and makeup!

Lorna, you are so beautiful, I can barely stand it!

Lorna's Mum and Dad came all the way from Scotland, and brought with them some beautiful family heritage.  The sword has the words "Si Je Puis" inscribed on it, meaning "If I can".  This is the motto of their family's clan.  The ring belonged to Lorna's Great Grandmother.  It was her engagement ring and it has now been passed down to Lorna.  How special!

This is the moment that Dad gets to see his little girl as a bride for the first time.

Heart.  Melt.

Meanwhile, Paul was with the rest of the wedding guests in Havelock boarding the Odyssey and travelling towards Homewood Bay.

At least one of the guests had a knife in his socks.  I figure that because he also wore a kilt that it must be a Scottish thing, and he's not necessarily a random off the street...

We followed along behind, plenty far enough behind for no one to spot us. 

We passed the time by driving the boat....

and taking pictures of each other.

Finally, the guest boat reached its destination - Homewood Bay.  This has been part of the Humm family for over 30 years and I can see why Duncan loves it so much.  It is gorgeous.

The welcome party.

As our boat arrived Lorna's Uncle Jim piped us in.  It was beautiful.

What a fantastic setting to get married in!

And just look at how they look at each other.  It's almost like no one else on the planet exists at that very moment.

Best view in the place!

Inside the batch were old images from Duncan's family.  So much history and I can't help but be grateful that we were able to contribute to the on going story of Homewood Bay and the Humm family.

You can't find a nicer couple than Lorna and Duncan.  You just can't.  I dare you to even try. They are up there with the super heroes of niceness.  If there was a hall of fame of nice couples, their photo would be hanging there, right on the top row, and they would look awesome in that photo.

We continued on our adventure of a wedding day and everyone hopped back on the boat and headed back to Havelock.

This was Paul's shot and I think he may have done an internal happy dance when he took it. 

The next stop in our adventure took us to Brownlee House.  Duncan's Great Great Great Grandfather (I think that's enough greats?) built it in the 1880s.  It was the first house built in Havelock and owned and loved by the Humm family for many, many years.

Flowers by Nina at Pink Poppie.  Perfection.

Duncan and Guyon (on the right) are twins.  Their dear Mum didn't realise that she was carrying twins until she was already 8 months pregnant.  At that stage they figured that they'd just wait to surprise everyone with the news after the birth.  So when they called their friends to say they had had a wee baby boy, they followed this with "But wait!  There's more!" 

Another quick stop on our way to the reception at Drylands.  How could I resist?

The light at Drylands was amazing.

We generally like to think of ourselves as 'available light' photographers.  We generally like to use the light available to us at the time.  Sometimes we consider our softbox and strobes available, and so we use those too.  Paul tends to love doing this kind of thing, so I let him loose from time to time and watch the crazy stuff he produces.  I think I like it.... a lot.

Back inside Drylands, and a beautiful reception takes place.

Lorna and Duncan, I have to stop here.  I could go on and on because your day was just so lovely!  Thank you so much for inviting us in and letting us play! 

Vendor Shoutout:

It just so happens that Kim is super funky and fun and organised some pretty awesome stuff for me to photograph as well.  Check out the shoooooooes!

We're often asked about Bridezillas.  Do we get them?  How often do they appear?  I keep waiting for this famed monster to come creeping out of one of my beautiful brides, convinced that American TV is telling the truth and that I should be afraid.  Very afraid.  Well, it's been over 100 weddings now and apart from a very few jittery nerves before the ceremony, my brides tend to be as cool as cucumbers.  I think it must be a kiwi girl thing.  Kiwi girls are easy going and relaxed, and their wedding day is just an extension of them.  Kim was one of the most relaxed brides I've seen.

Y'all know I've got a soft spot for Mums at weddings. 

Kim, you are absolutely stunning. 

Hayden is busy getting ready with the boys, he couldn't be happier.

You can't forget the hip flasks!

Gorgeous wee Mea.

Kim's Pop walked her down the aisle.  Kim spoke so warmly about him, she told me how much she loves him and how special he is to her.  These are the priceless moments, the moments you just want to put in a bottle and keep forever. 

This is what real smiles look like.  They were there all day!

Did you know that married people are statistically more likely to live longer, healthier and happier lives?  Did you know that children are far more likely to succeed in their lives and relationships if their parents are married?  Call me old fashioned, but I think getting married is one of the best choices a couple can make. 

Clearly Kim and Hayden think it's a pretty good idea too!

The wedding was held at the gorgeous Rocenvin Estate Vineyard.  

So.  Much.  Love!

Kim warned me when I first turned up that she will undoubtedly develop photo tourette's.  The uncontrollable urge to pull silly faces.  Turns out the entire bridal party came down with the same condition.  This suited me just fine!

Kim and most of her bridesmaids are hairdressers.  Why do I always have a bad hair day when I'm around hairdressers?  It's kind of like seeing my dentist on the street, and being overcome with guilt that it's been far too long between visits!

The boys were a laugh a second. 

Kim and Hayden left the the choosing of the portrait locations to us.  We knew it was going to be a scorcher of a day and that shade was needed more than anything else.  We also knew that Kim and Hayden are fun, funky and fully up for anything.  So we got permission to go into this old abandoned building and I think it was just right!

Oh Hayden, you stud muffin you!!

Excuse me awesome shoes!  Thank you for coming!

Kim and Hayden, I can't even tell you how much we enjoyed spending the day with you.  You are so perfectly suited to each other, it was a joy to capture the moments for you.  See you soon!

Vendor Shoutout:

Celebrant: Terry Terrill

Flowers: Nina, Pink Poppie Designer Florist

Hair: Illusions Hair & Beauty Salon

Makeup: X'foliate Beauty Salon

Dress: Brides on Thorndon

Bridesmaids Dresses: Dianne Burrow

Cake: The Chocolate Shoppe

Reception: The Clubs of Marlborough

Te Mahia might have been a little bit chilly in temperature, like the rest of the country, but it was warm in heart.  Filled with over one hundred people, all there to celebrate Andrea and John's wedding day with them.

Andrea was so Superwoman in her preparations, she should have worn a cape.  They did so many of the preparations for the day themselves, and OH MY GOODNESS, they did awesome!  Among other things, she had only just put the finishing touches to the cake when we arrived.   

The last time I saw Holly was in 2009, during their family shoot.  She's grown up so much, but is still ridiculously cute!

Getting the dress on was absolutely hilarious!  Sometimes it's not as easy to work out as you might think.

Andrea, you are smoking hot. 

The boys arrive to Te Mahia in style.  Wait, isn't that....toilet paper.... on the front of the car?  Why yes it is! 

Richard, Andrea's brother, proudly walks her down the aisle.  Dad's memory was ever close, however, as she carried a picture of him with her flowers throughout the day.

And John sees his bride for the first time.

Jordan looking fully awesome.

John and Andrea were given a bible by Reverend Miriam Taylor during their wedding ceremony.  What a beautiful gift.

Then it was time to open the bubbles....

Married!

Te Mahia is a really fantastic place to get married.

John not only made our day a delight because he looks like THIS in photos, but he's also a really nice guy.  I can see why Andrea adores him so!

John was absolutely thrilled to be marrying Andrea, walking around smiling just like he'd found a treasure.  John has a way of finding amazing things.  When he was a boy, he dug up a fossil on their farm.  His Dad figured it was an old Rabbit bone, probably about 30 years old.  However, a friend took it down to Otago University where it was examined by a professor who declared it to be pigeon that they didn't know had ever existed in New Zealand, and according to Prof Fordyce it was gazillions of years old.  It's now sitting in a draw at the university and known as the Hickman Exhibit.  Pretty cool.

John and Andrea look like they belong in the pages of a sports and fitness magazine.  Andrea is a personal trainer and she looks amazing!  Just being around her makes me want to suck my belly in!

And THIS is the cake!  How fantastic a job did Andrea do?!  As well as the gorgeous topper by Grannys Sweet Tooth.

The speeches had us absolutely cracking up.  I could listen to John's Dad speak for hours!

John and Andrea, you guys are a fantastic couple, and we're so thrilled to have been part of your amazing day.  We can't wait to show you the rest of the photos!

Vendor Shoutout: