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Luke & Viv
Luke and Vivienne’s journey began on the night of the Year 13 Burnside Ball, where they were matched by their friend, Leroi, who was also a groomsman. They met just before the ball, and spent most of the night being incredibly awkward around each other. It was the start of a great friendship that, with the right timing, turned into a relationship... a short 4 years later.
COURTYARD WEDDING
02 OCTOBER 2021 - COSSARS WINESHED
Tegan Clark Photography
Luke and Vivienne’s journey began on the night of the Year 13 Burnside Ball, where they were matched by their friend, Leroi, who was also a groomsman. They met just before the ball, and spent most of the night being incredibly awkward around each other. It was the start of a great friendship that, with the right timing, turned into a relationship... a short 4 years later.
The pair were married on a still, sunny day in the beautiful courtyard at Cossars Wineshed. We were so grateful that the wedding was able to go ahead with Covid restrictions in place, with overseas guests joining us through a live stream. Safia, the owner of Cossars, had done a magnificent job of setting up the space to be warm and inviting. The colours were spectacular - the green of the trees, terracotta pots with flowers, and bright yellow lemons… it was simply glorious.
Tegan Clark Photography
Viv entered with her Mum on one side and Dad on the other. She looked stunning. As the music built, the tissues came out! And the guests didn’t know what hit them when Luke and Viv chose to share vows they had written themselves… I don’t think there was a dry eye in the house.
“You'll often be asked the question, when did you decide you wanted to get married? I don't know the day, the time or the moment when I figured out I was ready, but I know that I've been ready since we got engaged a year ago, since a few months before that when I was picking out the ring, and definitely some time before that when I was wondering what our life was going to be like together in the future. I don't need to wonder anymore, because we're here, living each day together, and I get to look forward to each and every next day, with you by my side.”
“I want to thank you for pushing me to follow my passion and dreams, even when it’s out of my comfort zone. Without you, I wouldn’t have had the courage to start over and be the person that I am today. You knew how scary it was for me and you continued to support me through it all. Because of you, my life has been filled with joy and happiness.”
Tegan Clark Photography
After the ceremony, I bumped into Joe and Abbey, a gorgeous couple whose wedding I officiated last year. It was so nice to catch up and hear what they’re up to now!
AROHA NUI,
Vic xxx
Photographer - Tegan Clark Photography
Venue - Cossars Wineshed
“Honestly, you have been so amazing and great to work with! Our ceremony was exactly how we envisioned it to be and we couldn’t be any happier with how everything went! The planning and communication was really straightforward and easy. You were very prompt with emails which meant that there were no delays when it came to planning. The tips sent to us on how to write our vows and how to create what needed to be said during the ceremony was really helpful too!”
Isaac & Nina
COURTYARD WEDDING
20 FEBRUARY 2021 - COSSARS WINESHED
Isaac and Nina took Covid restrictions in their stride - no longer able to have the Fiji beach wedding they were hoping for, “Take 2!” was instead held in the beautiful courtyard at Cossars Wineshed. The vintage couches and festoon lights set the scene… and it was utterly gorgeous.
Throughout Issac and Nina’s relationship, they have learned that true love is not a fantasy, but something that they must consciously choose every day. As well as everyday adventures, they have experienced the hardship of family loss, and the joys of parenting together - and are stronger for it.
Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never ends.
Isaac and Nina’s ceremony was full of laughter. We all cracked up when Isaac had to dash from the ceremony to find a forgotten page from the handwritten vows… and when I asked Matthias for the rings, but he had cooler things to do and had disappeared to play (Alyssa shouted for him at the top of her lungs and he came running!).
These two were some of the nicest people I’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting. I just know that you will have a beautiful marriage xx
AROHA NUI,
Vic xxx
Photographer - Cassandra Kovacs Photography
Venue - Cossars Wineshed
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
Cam & Ione
OFFICIATING FOR ONE OF MY BEST FRIENDS!
6 FEBRUARY 2021 - WINSFORD GARDENS, AUCKLAND
Aside from my own wedding, Cam and Ione’s was my favourite of all time! As someone who has known Ione since the early days of high school, this ceremony was particularly special for me. She is such a treasure, and our friendship is one I value dearly. I’m choking up just re-living their beautiful celebration now… in fact, I really have no idea how I held it together on the day! This was also my first ceremony where I knew a number of the guests, making it all the more significant to me.
In the months leading up to the ceremony, we worked closely together to create a script that perfectly captured the essence of Cam and Ione’s relationship. We included details about how the pair met, some relationship milestones and Cam’s epic proposal (that Ione did not make easy!).
On the day, Ione chose to enter from the side of the garden, not down a traditional aisle. I always love to highlight to couples that the beauty of a personalised ceremony is that you have the freedom to do what works for you! She looked absolutely stunning.
It was important to Cam and Ione to share what marriage means to them and to acknowledge that it requires conscious effort. “As time and life changes you, remember that continuing to nourish your relationship is a choice - and when you choose to find your greatest joy in the company of each other, marriage offers opportunities for sharing and growth that no other human relationship can equal.” They also chose to write their own vows and there wasn’t a dry eye in the house. Perfection.
“…Ione, you are my best friend and soulmate, and you make every day of my life a surprise. Your energy and ambition are what drew me towards you, and I love the feeling of always being on the go with you. You can’t sit still. I love that when I’m with you there is never a dull moment. We’ve been to so many places and achieved so much already but I know today is only the beginning…”
“…Cameron - God, I love you. How incredible that we both get to be on this earth right now, and that among billions of people alive, and the zillions that came before us, we managed to collide in this strange, beautiful whirlwind of life. How sweet it is to be here with you today and to declare to the world that I adore you. You’re my best mate, my favourite person…”
After the ceremony, I had the privilege of attending the reception which was a super chilled out ‘walk-and-fork’ affair. Think classy house party… complete with lawn games and a bonfire. A major highlight was listening to the MC - Cam and Ione’s seven year old nephew - who was hilarious. I was so impressed. I got to hang out with my Mum, Dad and gorgeous husband, as well as catch up with some of my best mates who were also there to celebrate. Best night ever!!
Thank you so much for sharing your day with me. I love you both and I can’t wait to see what the future has in store for you xx
AROHA NUI,
Vic xxx
Photographer - Richard Ng
“Vic was wonderful to work with from start to finish. She was enthusiastic about our wedding and was super supportive and knowledgeable when it came to questions we had. She had some great suggestions and tips for how to make the ceremony run smoothly, and really listened to what we wanted out of the day.
We felt so confident during the lead up to our wedding, and on the day, knowing that she had everything in hand. We both loved how encouraging and supportive she was at the ceremony itself, reminding us to take our time and focus on each other, as she guided us through the process. Vic is an all-round delight to work with; if you’re looking for a celebrant, stop, you’ve found her. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story can make all the difference.”
Kurtus & Lily
GARDEN WEDDING
4 MARCH 2021 - HALSWELL QUARRY
Kurtus and Lily were married in an intimate ceremony surrounded by their closest family and friends. They chose a secluded spot in the beautiful Songpa-Gu Gardens at Halswell Quarry. If you haven’t visited, I highly recommend going for a walk around the ‘Sister Gardens’. This particular garden has a botanical collection that represents Korea, as well as our own landscape here in Canterbury.
Kurtus and Lily chose to break tradition in a few ways! That is the beauty of a personalised ceremony, my friends… you can make it totally your own. Instead of an archway, the pair set up in front of one of the monuments, using a framed photograph of themselves to mark where they were going to stand. They also opted not to have a first kiss - an epic, and rather spontaneous fist pump sealed this marriage!
This was my last ceremony of the season before beginning my maternity leave… and I was ready to pop! Maia Elizabeth Jo arrived 9 days later and I have since been settling into life as an earthside māmā. Our wee whānau is doing really well! I have been sharing a few updates over on Instagram @victoriathomas.celebrant - if you’re interested, prepare your ovaries and head on over for some super cute baby snaps.
AROHA NUI,
Vic xxx
“Everything was great! Couldn’t have asked for a better person to help us continue our next chapter.”
Matt & Steph
GARDEN WEDDING
23 JANUARY 2021 - BRAMBLE GROVE, KAIAPOI
Matt and Steph were married at the lovely Bramble Grove in Kaiapoi. I was so excited to finally get a chance to visit and I was not disappointed! The intimate backyard setting complete with an outdoor bar had a relaxed atmosphere that the guests absolutely loved.
One of my favourite parts of Matt and Steph’s ceremony was chatting with Matt and his groomsmen beforehand… hearing how the morning had been, doing a final run-through of the script, and calming those pre-ceremony nerves. I love it when a groom acknowledges and allows himself to express his emotions in the lead up to one of the most significant experiences he is ever going to share with his future partner. And who could blame him for being completely overwhelmed with love? Steph was glowing… honestly, the only word I can use is ‘radiant.’ Her smile throughout the day was simply the best and Mel from Mel’s Moments captured her perfectly. The photos speak for themselves.
“Steph, as I stand here with you today, I feel like the luckiest man in the world. I want nothing more than to share my future with you…”
“Matt, you are everything that I could ever dream of in a man. You are my lover, my best friend, my protector, my soulmate, and my home…”
A few other highlights…
The most gorgeous wee flower girl and ringbearers - such a great way to include children in their special day!
Finally meeting Mel. I was so grateful that she looked after me in the heat - what an absolute gem.
One of the guests approaching me after the ceremony and saying how much he had enjoyed it. He explained that he struggles with his hearing but had found my delivery clear and easy to understand. I was touched that he took the time to come and chat - it really meant a lot getting positive feedback.
Thank you both so much for sharing your special day with me xxx it was magical.
AROHA NUI,
Vic xxx
P.S. Get in touch if you want to know more about the ‘Shoe Game!’ (pictured above).
Photographer - Mel’s Moments
Venue - Bramble Grove
“Vic, you were amazing. We really couldn’t have asked for a better celebrant. Thank you sooo much for making the process very easy and answering all of our emails and questions. Thank you very much for all the hard work you put into making our day perfect. We didn’t have to worry about a thing - you had everything covered.”
Nitin & Krina
Nitin and Krina celebrated their love with a full wedding weekend. They held their Hindu ceremony at the Lincoln Events Centre on Saturday and their legal ceremony at Pemberton Gardens on Saturday.
GARDEN WEDDING
06 DECEMBER 2020 - PEMBERTON GARDENS, CANTERBURY
Nitin and Krina celebrated their love with a full wedding weekend. They held their Hindu ceremony at the Lincoln Events Centre on Saturday and their legal ceremony at Pemberton Gardens on Saturday. After hearing so much about Pemberton Gardens, I was really excited to officiate Nitin and Krina’s wedding ceremony there. It was well worth the wait! Such a stunning venue - lush gardens complete with bunny rabbits hopping around, a range of different spaces to use - and best of all, blankets and hot water bottles on a chilly day!
Nitin and Krina are a super relaxed couple and wanted their special day to be full of laughter. We all cracked up when the mic cut out just as Nitin said ‘I do!’ and Krina had to reassure the guests… ‘HE DOES!’
Their vows were funny too…
…from the opening lines…
“Nitin, the day has finally come - who knew that when we were introduced and spoke for all of 30 seconds before you ran away that we’d be standing here today.”
“Krina, I'm so proud to be sharing this special moment of our lives with our friends and family today. From the weekend I came up to Auckland to hang out with you for the first time, to the time you craved a trip to Nandos for a feast, I knew you were a keeper!“
…to their promises…
“…And lastly, I promise to try and be more comforting when the Crusaders beat the Hurricanes even though I’m rather pleased on the inside…”
“I promise to listen to you (even if you have to repeat yourself three times)…”
Nitin and Krina were so much fun to work with! I only wish they lived in Christchurch so we could hang out!!
All the best for your next chapter xx I know you won’t be strangers.
AROHA NUI,
Vic xxx
Photographer - Mala, Paul Tatterson
Venue - Pemberton Gardens
“We had the absolute pleasure of having Vic as our celebrant and sharing our ceremony with us. We had our initial meeting via Skype during lockdown and instantly knew she was perfect for us! She made the process so easy and catered to what we were after, we really couldn’t have asked for anything more - thank you so much Vic xxx”
Nic & Rose
Rose and Nic were married in an intimate wedding ceremony with their closest family and friends.
GARDEN WEDDING
12 DECEMBER 2020 - PEMBERTON GARDENS, CANTERBURY
Rose and Nic were married in an intimate ceremony with their closest family and friends. The sun was shining and everyone was stoked to be there. In my opinion, it was the perfect garden party - the setting was elegant and classy, and all the ‘little details’ complimented each other beautifully.
Rose and Nic broke tradition in a number of ways. They had a ‘first look’ before the ceremony, Rose walked herself down the aisle, and the pair shared a kiss and cuddle when she got there. It was exactly how a personalised wedding ceremony should be… uniquely their own, a perfect reflection of their values and beliefs.
“Rose, I couldn’t be happier than I am standing here today, about to take another step along the winding road with you. This does not mark the beginning of our adventure, because we have already been through so much together, but the continuation of our story that started the day I met you. This day will solidify the bond that we’ve always had, and bring us into the next chapter in our lives.”
“Nic, I can’t be certain of what our future may hold, but I am certain that we will face it together, with our love for each other as the foundation of every success and setback. I am inspired by who you are; persistent, thoughtful, generous and sensitive. I will always be grateful that you show your love for me with these qualities. I stand here today, and every day ahead of us, to give myself to you, promising to weather whatever will be as your loving wife and best friend.”
Right from the word ‘go’, Rose and Nic treated me like a friend they had known for years. I loved our communication throughout the planning process - flicking quick messages back and forth, or chatting on the phone about the order of service, wording of vows, and back-up plans incase Covid decided to rain on our parade. On the day, I felt so appreciated by these two beautiful humans. I was overwhelmed with hugs, kind words and was even invited to be in the group photo after the ceremony. It meant a lot to me.
I am already so excited for the adventures you are about to have. All the best for your next chapter xx
AROHA NUI,
Vic xxx
Photographer - Jayden Wall
Venue - Pemberton Gardens
“Thank you so much for all your help. The Google doc to create the ceremony was a real asset and easy to navigate. Vic, you have a real gift for hearing what couples want and helping curate something really personal. From day 1 you had ideas and ways of bringing it all together to perfect a modern ceremony.
It was a pleasure to share our wedding day with you and we felt so well supported by you through the entire process. We had guests say how impressed they were by you and also note that you stood to the side the whole time and how that was visually much more impressive than typical celebrants.
Can’t wait to see you become a mum to your gorgeous pēpi, wishing you all the best.”