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Isaac & Nina

COURTYARD WEDDING

20 FEBRUARY 2021 - COSSARS WINESHED

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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!).

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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

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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

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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!

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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.

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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…” 

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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

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Andrew & Jess

Self-professed ‘Star Wars Nerds’ Andrew and Jess were married on a hot, windy day at Westhaven Gardens, after postponing their ceremony due to Covid earlier in the year.

COVID CAN’T BEAT LOVE!

31 OCTOBER 2020 - WESTHAVEN GARDENS, CHRISTCHURCH

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Self-professed ‘Star Wars Nerds’ Andrew and Jess were married on a hot, windy day at Westhaven Gardens, after postponing their ceremony due to Covid earlier in the year.

The venue was simply stunning! I was blown away by the manicured gardens, lush green lawns and intimate wee chapel. Andrew and Jess set up a marquee for the reception, as well. There were plenty of trees for shade before the ceremony, and a variety of lawn games for entertainment afterwards.

Andrew set up a live stream for guests who were unable to attend due to Covid restrictions, and Emma Smart did an amazing job of capturing the day. I thought that Jess’ veil looked stunning as it floated in the breeze.

Both Mums were invited to share a reading, which was a really nice way of involving them in the ceremony. There were lots of happy tears, especially when Andrew and Jess shared their vows with each other.

“…I promise to love you with all I have to give and all that I am, completely and forever.”

“…I can’t wait to continue to make a life with you and have many adventures. With you by my side, I know we can get through anything.”

Something particularly special for me was feeling my baby fluttering while we were signing the paperwork. It was a magical experience and I am so grateful that this Little Bean has been surrounded by love and happiness as it grows.

All the best for married life, Andrew and Jess!

AROHA NUI,

Vic xxx

Photographer - Emma Smart

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Collective Concepts have a treat for you!

Introducing…

‘All for Love’ Bespoke Wedding Packages!

I am SO excited to be part of this incredible team and wanted to share some more information with you. How amazing does this sound!? Picture your wedding day… all you have to do is show up with your marriage licence and wedding rings, and Kate and her team will take care of the rest. Enjoy! xx

Collective Concepts is proud to introduce their ‘All for Love’ Bespoke Wedding Packages - all-inclusive packages where you can custom create your perfect day. You will work with Kate and the team at Collective Concepts, in collaboration with an experienced and talented group of wedding vendors (including me - just to toot my own horn) - all handpicked by you! Each wedding package is 100% customisable to suit your budget, preferred vendors and your own unique style.

There are three gorgeous venues - the rustic Tipapa Estate, luxurious Horotane Lodge, or intimate Taka Retreat - as well as a range of styling, florals, catering and cake vendors to choose from… and of course, some outstanding photographers to capture your special day!

Pop over to the website for step-by-step guidance to begin planning (this brochure may also come in handy). There are cost calculators to get a price estimate for 20, 40 or 60 guests, for a range of wedding celebrations from 3-6 hours - Kate really has thought of everything…

Mmmhmmm I hear you…. it’s dreamy, I know!! We can't wait to get to know you and support you on your wedding planning journey xxx Let’s create something beautiful together!

AROHA NUI,

Vic xxx


Get in touch with Kate and her team here:

email:   weddings@collectiveconcepts.co.nz 

phone:  0800 321 567 

web:     http://www.weddingconcepts.co.nz

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