Chill. Adventurous. FUN.
Oh where to start first because this day was beyond perfect! Laura's request was to have "no cookie cutter photos please." They wanted their elopement to be different from the norm, and to have stunning images to remember the day they pledged their love to one another.
Shaun got ready in his parents cottage with his two sons, while Laura had her hair and makeup done next door by the incredible Katy-Jane (who we RECOMMEND x10000 btw.) With sunshine streaming in and ocean views to die for, the atmosphere was cozy and relaxed. Joel hung out with Shaun next door while I - Bonita - (hi!) got to be with the bride and document the start of what was going to be an incredible day.
The ceremony location was unbelievable. Like oh my gosh, have you seen the photos below yet?...it was literally the coolest location to elope at! It was also a very meaningful secret location of the bride and groom where they could view their parent's home across the bay. Super speshh. Shaun and Laura had their closest friends and family with them --> including Laura's 90 year old grandma, who walked up a pretty decent sized hill to be present! Laura's dad had previous cut out and prepared the path for everyone to safely navigate to the ceremony a few days earlier. The elopement ceremony itself was beautiful, including Shaun and Laura's two sons giving the rings, a few tears, and lots of happiness and celebration all round.
A private water-taxi waited down below and picked up Shaun and Laura to take them across the bay to a few of their favourite spots for -you guessed it - their creative bride and groom photos! At SUNSET! YASSSS. Roberton Island was one of the spots they traveled to. This island with its two lagoons was so dreamy. It's safe to say there were no cookie cutter photos, just authentic wonderful love with incredible uninhibited New Zealand landscape everywhere! Annnd not a soul in sight either (unless you count the water-taxi driver.) They got some epic drone photos here as well.
After sunset, Shaun and Laura's celebration continued at Sage Restaurant with cutting the cake, speeches, and dinner with everyone. There's was truely the most wonderful divine New Zealand elopement! Their day from start to finish was meaningful and full of love. What a dream!
Vendors:
Gown: @astrabridal.auckland
Makeup: @katyjanemakeupartist
Russell, New Zealand
Russell, New Zealand has so many hidden gems, stunning bays, and beautiful scenery everywhere. It's definitely one of our favourite elopement destinations. If you're thinking about eloping here - hit us up! Let's start chatting and dreaming up your New Zealand Elopement!
