METHVEN WEDDING

19 FEBRUARY 2021 - AWA AWA RATA RESERVE, METHVEN

Bride and Groom golden sunset portrait in field.JPG

Simon and Vanessa’s ceremony was held on an absolute scorcher of a day at a stunning spot in Methven! They had an epic team of vendors on board - I’ve linked them below so that you can check them out.

Simon and Vanessa's relationship began on a Facebook ‘singles’ page. After a few days chatting, Vanessa decided to take Simon some lunch. They met on the side of the road near where he was working in Waipara... As Vanessa says, "A way to a man's heart is through his stomach!” - One dinner later, they were officially boyfriend and girlfriend, and the rest is history.

Celebrant announcing bride's arrival at ceremony

Groom crying at front of aisle as he awaits bride

Before the ceremony started, Simon was extremely emotional. He is head over heels for Vanessa and couldn’t believe their wedding day had finally arrived. Best Man, Nick, was a great support - taking Simon to one side and having a chat with him in the shade before the bridal party made their entrance. I was touched by their strong friendship. There wasn’t a dry eye in the house when Vanessa made her way down the aisle!

A wedding day is often a day when couples miss those who can’t be with them. We acknowledged Des, Simon’s groomsman and Vanessa's brother, who couldn’t make it due to Covid travel restrictions. Vanessa’s Aunty Joy also lit a candle in remembrance of Vanessa’s Dad, Ian.

A great way to include loved ones is through readings. Simon’s gorgeous wee cousin shared ‘Love is Giving’ with us.

“Love is giving not taking,

Mending not breaking,

Trusting, believing, never deceiving, patiently bearing and faithfully sharing,

Each joy, every sorrow, today and tomorrow.

Love is kind, understanding, but never demanding,

Love is constant, prevailing, its strength never failing,

A promise once spoken for all time unbroken,

Love’s time is forever.”

Simon and Vanessa chose to write their own vows which they shared with each other for the very first time during their ceremony.

“…You are beautiful, smart and strong, and I will love you every day for the rest of our lives together...”

“…My heart still skips a beat when I get that phone call - that you are on your way home from work. I love you today, tomorrow and for the rest of my life…”