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2021 / 2022 Weddings!
Here are some of the utterly gorgeous couples I have had the privilege of getting hitched in 2021/2022.
Kia ora e hoa mā,
So… clearly I have dropped the ball with my blog posts this season BUT I AM BACK!
Where to begin? Wow, it has been such an incredible (and busy) season, with weddings across the country. I have been blessed to work with amazing vendors. Big shout out to the photographers especially - thank you for so generously sharing your magic with me. Hover over the images below to see who has captured each moment, and click on the images to access the photographer’s website.
And, without further ado, here are the utterly gorgeous couples I have had the privilege of getting hitched recently…
Personalised Ceremonies
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Jared & Belinda - Braemar Lodge, 17 Nov 2021
Ces Photography
Throughout their relationship, Jared and Belinda have developed their own understanding of what love means to them. Love is all of the little things in life - Like when Jared starts up the car on a frosty morning for Belinda and makes her a coffee while she gets ready… It is Belinda agreeing to watch reruns of Gold Rush or Fast and Loud. Love is Jared and Belinda’s two beautiful children who made them parents - and have completed their family. Love is accepting one another for themselves, and being there unconditionally.
“We had the best day ever and everyone loved the ceremony. ”
Brent & Kristy - KAIAPOI CLUB, 27 NOV 2021
Photo taken by a friend
Brent and Kristy’s story began when Kristy was looking for a new flatmate. Brent needed a place to live and Kristy needed help with the rent. Neither was looking for romance - yet, the pair just clicked… and despite being initially unsure about ruining the ‘good flatmates’ vibe, they were soon a couple. Some would say it was meant to be!
Brent and Kristy both describe their love as ‘easy’ - it’s never a chore and it feels like they just ‘work’. They’ve never felt this way about anyone else before.
“From the first contact with Vic, we knew we were in safe hands... She was so calming, and thorough on the day. She had everything under control and wouldn’t let us fall. Thanks so much Vic, you really helped make our day.”
Mack & Livvy - Family Farm, 4 Dec 2021
Meg Elizabeth Photography
Livvy and Mackenzie’s journey began when they met in 2016. Their relationship very quickly developed. Within a few months they moved in together and have since bought their first home. The pair have always talked about getting married, right from the first few months together, so in June 2020 on a holiday to Queenstown, they decided on a whim to get engaged. They even thought about getting married right then and there but thought their families would kill them!! Instead, they were married at Livvy’s family farm - with only one small drama… a fire that blocked that ONLY route to the venue!
“Vic is very well organised and made us both feel at ease. She was also available to explain the whole process and give advice at any time. She made us both feel so comfortable and fitted in perfectly with both our families. Our ceremony being delayed was no issue at all for Vic, and she kept us and all the guests in the loop. We are sad we can’t get married again as it was such a pleasure to spend time with Vic!”
James & Jordain - Waipuna Estate, 6 Jan 2022
Emily Hugo Photography
When I asked these two what they love about each other, they said that their relationship is built on a solid foundation of friendship - the kind of friendship that they can’t live without. They support each other, lift each other up, and help each other to be the best they can be. And of course, they both have a deep love for their family and friends… They told me that seeing everyone come together over the past 4 years has meant the world to them both.
“We can’t thank you enough for officiating our special day! Everything went so smoothly thanks to you. Your presence and warm nature was so suited to our day and anyone would be lucky to have you as their celebrant.”
Hayden & Hollie (my dear friends!!) - RiverRidge Retreat, 8 Jan 2022
Peanut Productions
It was such a privilege to be Hayden and Hollie’s celebrant! I have known them for about 7 years and it meant the world to share their special day with them. LOVED getting to stay on and party afterwards, too!
Hayden and Hollie’s story began at a mutual friend’s flat-warming in Palmerston North. Hayden says that he was taken with Hollie straight away - although he didn’t let on, choosing to play it cool for most of the night while Hollie followed him around trying to get his attention. He finally asked for her number towards the end of the night, only to continue playing it cool, not texting for a further five days! He later explained - ‘treat ‘em mean, keep ‘em keen’... a strategy that, in fairness, clearly paid off? Or perhaps Hollie whipped him into shape!
“Vic was our celebrant a few weeks ago and she was outstanding! Her coms leading up to the day were always quick and super helpful - providing all the information we needed. She put together a ceremony that was so special and perfect for us, and we got so much lovely feedback from our guests, not just on the ceremony but Vic in general. Would highly recommend to anyone looking for a celebrant! ❤”
Regan & Susie - Riccarton House, 15 Jan 2022
Susannah Blatchford Photography
Regan and Susie’s story began in 2016 while Susie was on a teaching placement at Christchurch Boys’ High School. Over those 7 weeks, their friendship grew as they got to know each other, and the very second that placement was over, they knew it was the beginning of something special.
Regan and Susie describe love as having a best friend and romantic relationship all wrapped up in one. Love is having someone that you can rely on, who understands your differences, and is 100% willing to have a good time with you. It’s about having someone you can grow old with, and share successes and failures with.
“Vic was easy to communicate with leading up to the ceremony, and we loved the Google doc that we could just add to when we had a spare moment. Rehearsal ceremony was easy and on the day Vic made it all super straight forward for us. Our family felt that Vic was really relatable and organised and my bridesmaid has asked me to pass on details for her wedding so fingers crossed she gets in touch!”
Jordan & Natahlia - Cossars Wineshed, 22 Jan 2022
Stanley Pictures
Over the years, this pair have grown in love with each other. As they describe it, love isn’t just a word for them - it’s their actions. It’s enjoying spending time together, taunting and teaching each other, having bucket loads of fun... Love is looking after Pablo, the centre of their universe, and being the very best of friends.
As R.M. Drake says - “You will be the clouds and I will be the sky. You will be the ocean and I will be the shore. You will be the trees and I will be the wind. Whatever we are, you and I will always collide.”
“Thanks for everything! We couldn’t be happier at the outcome of the day!! Was just wonderful. Thanks again for the vow help and your patience with us getting you our program lol! You were awesome.”
Jamie & Emma - Trents Vineyard, 18 Feb 2022
Pip & Oz Photography
Jamie and Emma’s story began at a Christmas work function. Emma broke her shoe - yes, it’s sounding a little like Cinderella, isn’t it? And ended up having to stay seated for the whole night! Jamie came over and Emma felt like she was being interviewed for the prestigious role of Jamie’s girlfriend, what with the 20 questions he was firing her way. Thankfully, Jamie quickly realised that this wasn’t the way to woo her, backed off a touch and made a funny joke instead. They hit it off - and to this day, don’t remember what the joke was but it was clearly a winner.
“Vic was absolutely amazing and helped us through every step of the way of our ceremony. We would highly recommend her as a celebrant and we had so many compliments on our ceremony and what a great job Vic did 💜”
Brendon & Laura - Trents Vineyard, 19 Feb 2022
Bridget de Paula Photography
Brendon and Laura’s story began about ten years ago, when Brendon was living with Jamie, one of Laura’s closest friends. Shortly after the pair was introduced, Laura actually moved into the flat, and just never left! The rest is history… In the years since, they’ve become parents to their two beautiful daughters. Whanaungatanga is incredibly important to them - the forming, maintaining and strengthening of relationships - and Brendon and Laura’s role as parents is the glue that holds their relationship together. It provides them with the foundation for a sense of belonging, teamwork, and ‘home’.
“Thank you so much again for officiating our wedding. You were amazing. You have such a warm and calming presence, and you made us feel so comfortable during our ceremony. I will definitely be recommending you to anyone for their special day!”
Ricky & Raya (my beautiful FRIEND!) - Backyard, 26 Feb 2022
J.MC Photography
When asked what they love about each other, Ricky and Raya said that they would both do anything for their family, especially their two beautiful children - who Ricky loves as his own. They know that they have an amazing connection, and a deep understanding of what they both want. They know their love is very strong and they push each other to be the best versions of themselves that they can be. Love in Ricky and Raya’s words is knowing what the other is thinking… it’s having each other’s backs - whether it’s making that cuppa tea, running the bath or just being together after a long day. Their motto is ‘It is what it is’ and ‘As long as we have our family, it’s all ok!’.
“We just want to say thank you so much, my beautiful friend Vic. You made our day so easy, you are so well organised and your communication was perfect. We couldn’t have asked to a better celebrant. ❤❤”
Chris & Sam - Waipuna Estate, 5 March 2022
Kelly Shakespeare Photography
Chris and Sam’s story began in the most romantic of ways… on Tinder. After the pair matched, a few messages were exchanged, and it wasn’t long before Chris slyly asked for Sam’s number. Next thing, they were meeting up for a boogie and a cheeky pash at Baretta.
In Chris and Sam’s words, marriage is chilling out together with the dogs. It’s coffee in the mornings, walks on the beach, and cuddles on the couch. Marriage is choosing to stick by each other, not judging, and knowing that some days will be a struggle, and some will be the best they’ve ever had.
“We were so, so happy with our wedding ceremony on Saturday. Thank you so much for all your help with planning and for officiating our marriage. We were so happy and both thought you did an incredible job. Chris told me after that I nailed the celebrant choice haha and he was also so happy with how it ran! Thanks again for all of your help! I will be recommending you to people 🙂”
Ryan & Mikaela - Cossars Wineshed, 18 Mar 2022
When asked what love means to them, Ryan and Mikaela said… Love is the way that we communicate with each other. It is unconditional support through thick and thin, and it is the glue that will hold us together when everything else is stripped away. Love is the feeling we have every time we share a glance, a joke or a smile. Love is early morning cuddles with the kids in bed and playing paper, scissors, rock to see whose turn it is to sleep in. Love is what brought us together and it is the reason we are here today.
Sophie Isabella Photography
Lota & Rose - Darjon vineyard, 25 Mar 2022
Ces Photography
Rose and Lota’s story began 12 years ago - on a school night, no less! They were out with their friends at a bar, played it like they knew each other, and the rest is history… Just a casual ten years down the track, with two knee surgeries under his belt, Lota decided he was finally capable of getting down on one of them - and during a beautiful sunset at Mt Maunganui, he asked Rose to marry him.
“Thank you so much, we could not have imagined our ceremony to be any more perfect. You were amazing to work with.”
Simon & helena - cashmere, 26 Mar 2022
Simon and Helena had been friends for a long time before their relationship began. One day, when they were hanging out, driving around as usual, they went up the Port Hills to Victoria Park and found a spot to sit. It was at this moment that Helena plucked up the courage and said "I like like you". Simon said "I like like you too". Then they both got 'hypothermia' because they didn't want the moment to end and hadn't dressed for the weather.
V E Photography (Victoria Ellison)
“Vic was our celebrant and she did an amazing job. She helped make the process easy and was able to accommodate a name change and point us in the right direction. She was very warm and welcoming in our initial meeting and had a user friendly google doc to customise our ceremony just the way we wanted. Communications leading up to the wedding were excellent and helpful, especially while navigating changing Covid requirements. Vic was able to make some last minute changes to our ceremony at our rehearsal and crafted the words so carefully. She delivered our ceremony so eloquently and heartfelt, with just the right touch of humour. We would highly recommend Vic to any couples tying the knot.”
Will & Sally - Pemberton Gardens, 27 Mar 2022
Meg Elizabeth Photography
William and Sally describe love as friendship, trust, and patience. Love means accepting each other during highs and lows, and always being there to help out - whether it’s doing the cleaning or making big life decisions. Through the many adventures they have shared, the pair has come to realise that as long as they are together, they can conquer anything life throws at them.
“W - Vic was amazing to work with. She was patient, organised and amazing at walking us through the entire process. Creating our ceremony was super easy with her advice and she even gave us tips on how to write our vows. On the day she ran the ceremony like a boss and made everyone feel at ease. Many of our guests complimented Vic and the amazing job she did. Would highly recommend.
S - We loved how you were super organised and onto it when we were not! You were nothing but patient when we had to postpone our wedding and pick a new date. We liked that the process was simple and how we could contact you at any time. This gave us a lot of confidence in you and enabled us to go ahead with the wedding without even meeting you before hand. On the day, the weather was perfect and so were you! Having your smiling face at the end was reassuring and your calm presence really helped! Your professionalism meant we felt at ease and comfortable confessing our love in front of everyone.”
Sam & Chanel - Botanic Gardens, 9 April 2022
Sparkes Photography Co
Sam and Chanel opted for a simple personalised ceremony with a set script, choosing to write their own vows to share with each other on the day.
“I love that I can be myself around you without judgment and be accepted for who I am. We are best friends.”
“You are my truest friend and where you are is where I belong.”
“With the madness of organising a wedding, it can be stressful trying to figure out how to organise the ceremony, how it runs and what to say. Vic brought a calmness to the process, took control and we were able to relax, trust her and follow her lead to create and have the perfect ceremony that went off without a hitch. We were very grateful for her support and direction on the day and highly recommend her.”
Jordan & Chiara - Pemberton, 10 April 2022
Susannah Blatchford Photography
One could say that Jordan and Chiara have already been together for a lifetime! 13 has personally always been my lucky number - and must be for these two as well, because after 13 years, they were finally hitched!
Throughout their relationship, Jordan and Chiara have become each other’s favourite person. They have learned the art of both sacrifice and compromise - encouraging each other to follow their dreams and aspirations, no matter where the journey takes them.
“It was so lovely meeting you yesterday and finally getting married. Thank you for everything - you are such an awesome person, you made everything flow so easily, and made us feel so comfortable. Your personality alone is so refreshing. Thank you again!”
Registry Ceremonies
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Simon & Roxana - At home, 20 Oct 2021
Lucas & Fernanda - At home, 11 Nov 2021
Nachum & Rotem - Ilex, 23 Nov 2021
Leo & Yolanda - New Brighton Pier, 8 Dec 2021
Riley & Ruitong - Botanic Gardens, 18 Jan 2022
Ted & Jess - University of Canterbury grounds, 2 March 2022
Taumaloto & Chelsea - At home, 11 March 2022
David & Lisa - Riverbank by Oxford Terrace, 25 March 2022
Daniel & Angela - Botanic Gardens, 20 April 2022 (My 50th couple!!!)
Simon & Vanessa
Simon and Vanessa’s ceremony was held on an absolute scorcher of a day at a stunning spot in Methven!
METHVEN WEDDING
19 FEBRUARY 2021 - AWA AWA RATA RESERVE, METHVEN
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.
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…”
Afterwards, the guests had nibbles and drinks together then made their way to Ski Time for a wonderful evening of yummy food, speeches and dancing.
All the best to this loved-up couple! xx
AROHA NUI,
Vic xxx
Catering - Smoke ‘n’ Barrel
DJ - Boogie Beats
Photographer - Focus Photography
Videographer - Frame Boy
Dan & Vic
Christmas Newsletter
December, 2020
2020 Highlights
Living in New Zealand - what more do I need to say?
However, the best news for us is that I am hapū and we are expecting our first pēpi in March (or maybe April!) next year. We are stoked! A huge thank you to everyone who is celebrating our journey with us, offering love and support - we are so grateful to share this chapter with you.
Life
The Covid situation was initially a bit of a mind f*ck but overall, we were really fortunate. We loved being home together and used the time to slow down, eat nutritious meals, and find pleasure in simple, everyday things. We made sure to get outside and walked around our block a lot! Unfortunately, we had a lot of cancelled trips, particularly to Auckland, which meant that I missed out on family time. This was challenging for me but it made visits later in the year even more special.
Despite the late start to the season, Dan loved playing rugby for Christchurch again. I began the year with Heart and Mind Yoga, transitioning to OptiMum Pregnancy Yoga in Terms 3 and 4. I have recently started swimming again and love the weightlessness of being in the water.
We continued to renovate our two bedroom home. The biggest change is our new kitchen - light, bright and modern with lots of bench space and storage. It feels so much more open and spacious. We love it! Dan also renovated our laundry, and built a beautiful gate leading into the garden. I am so lucky that he is a ‘projects man’ - practical and handy with an eye for detail. Next step… setting up the nursery!
Health
2020 has been filled with uncertainty. In terms of mental health, I have learned that there are many things I cannot control, but I can control my response to them. I am continuing to build my inner strength so I am better able to choose steadiness and contentment in difficult situations. I’ve found it helpful to have a mantra - some I have taken from my yoga class are…
“What if I know I am enough?”
“What if I have acceptance?”
“What if I choose to change my mindset by changing my breath?”
Pregnancy is a journey. Every day, I wonder at the marvel of my body and its ability to create life. We are now in the third trimester (a privilege and blessing!), and this journey has been transformational. It has required strength, resilience and vulnerability - a willingness to accept and embrace the unknown, and to ask for support when needed. Some of the physical challenges, including intense morning sickness until 24 weeks, have tested me. I am extremely grateful for the love and understanding I continue to receive from my beautiful husband, whānau, and my work mates at Bromley. I talk, sing and dance with our little darling every day and love all of the wriggling!
Work
Dan has just completed another busy year as Contracts Manager/Detailer with Division Architectural Engineering, working on a range of projects throughout Canterbury and the wider South Island. Though there were some challenges, he was fortunate to be able to complete work from home during lockdown - and was ready to get back into it when we dropped back down the levels!
I continued to teach at Bromley School, picking up an extra day in another of the Y5/6 classes - three days a week in total. During lockdown, we provided tasks for our children on Google Classroom and Seesaw, and stayed in touch with each other via Zoom. One of my favourite things about Bromley is the focus on gratitude and positivity - it is such a special part of the community. I always feel listened to and respected, as well as completely valued for being myself. I will miss being surrounded by such beautiful people on a daily basis next year.
My business as a marriage celebrant has continued to grow and I have LOVED meeting so many beautiful couples and vendors. A special highlight for me was becoming qualified as a Validated Member of the Celebrants Association of New Zealand which means I am now able to perform registry ceremonies in the local community. My role brings me great joy and I am looking forward to the weddings I already have booked in for next season!
Future Adventures
We fly up to Auckland tomorrow to enjoy Christmas with my extended family, spend a few weeks relaxing at The Mount, and celebrate my Poppa’s 90th birthday.
Next March, we look forward to welcoming our Little Bean earthside and embracing our role as parents. Lots of learning ahead!
Meri Kirihimete e hoa! Have a safe and happy break, wherever you are in the world.
A weekend away in Akaroa!
Aroha nui,
Vic & Dan xxx
New Zealand Marriage Celebrants
Learning a little bit more about Marriage Celebrants…
Only those persons appointed by the Registrar-General as Marriage Celebrants and whose name appears in the List of Celebrants in the New Zealand Gazette have authority to solemnise marriages in New Zealand. I was excited to become registered as an Independent Marriage Celebrant on 5th June 2019 and later, to join the Celebrants Association of New Zealand (CANZ).
Why should you book a CANZ member as your Marriage Celebrant?
CANZ members create and facilitate ceremonies and rituals which respond to the diverse needs and values of New Zealand individuals, families and communities. In engaging a CANZ celebrant, you are gaining the assurance of employing a celebrant who belongs to the national professional body, a celebrant who has passed the association’s Code of Ethics and Professional Standards test, and a person who, more often than not, is committed to ongoing professional development with a strong network of fellow celebrants to call on if needed.
So, what is VCANZ?
CANZ has introduced a celebrant validation process known as VCANZ, which is a structured recognition of celebrant training, experience and professional development based on the CANZ body of knowledge. This gives couples additional certainty and greater comfort that a CANZ celebrant meets the professional standards of competency required for celebrant work. Also, only validated celebrants can legally perform Registry Ceremonies, no longer held at Births, Deaths and Marriages offices. I received my VCANZ status on 3rd June 2020 (and I cried LITERAL TEARS of joy!!!).
Why are Registry Ceremonies being held in the community?
Vaughan Millar (Senior Advisor at Services and Access - The Department of Internal Affairs) tells us more through a short history about the concept of validated CANZ celebrants performing registry ceremonies.
Like most change these days, it started with the Internet. In this case, marriage licence applications could be completed fully online from October 2018, which resulted in less walk-ins to a public counter. Other than signing declarations, the only other major work for the 47 registry offices was performing registry office marriages. With 10,000 appointed marriage celebrants, it made sense to give couples more options and a better customer experience by making better use of this pool of talent. It also provided an opportunity for more work for celebrants. Over the following 12 months the groundwork began to enable the outsourcing of registry weddings to celebrants in the community.
On 1 July 2019, the registry celebrant service was launched with 59 celebrants signed up in areas outside the centres where BDM had large offices – Christchurch, Wellington, Manukau and Auckland. The next step was taking advantage of the Wellington BDM office move early in 2020. The last day registry wedding ceremonies were held at the Wellington counter was on Friday, 31 January 2020 and on 1 February 2020, that work was handed over to VCANZ celebrants. The plan was to move registry office ceremonies in Christchurch, Manukau and Auckland to validated CANZ members on 1 December 2020 – similar to the process that had been successfully executed in Wellington. However, due to Covid19, this date was brought forward to early March 2020.
As of 12 May 2020, there are 129 registry celebrants spread across the length of New Zealand - BDM are out of the business of performing registry marriages, now sitting entirely with celebrants (including yours truly!).
What does this mean for YOU?
A celebrant is a deeply personal choice - someone who can connect with you and capture the essence of your true self. Their role is to share your story, encompassing your values and beliefs in a way that reflects your relationship. One of the most significant moments of my own wedding ceremony was when our celebrant, Sally, blessed us in te reo, grounding and connecting us to a particular place and time. For you, it may be a reading or a song, maybe a funny anecdote - your ceremony should be uniquely yours. In ten or twenty years time, you may not remember the exact words, but you will remember the way they made you feel. As a validated member of CANZ, and a lover of people and their stories, I am committed to creating something beautiful with you xx
AROHA NUI,
Vic xxx
*Please note: You can find out more about the different ceremonies I provide here.