Cornelia + James by I Do Photography - Together Journal

My mum took me to Vinka Design and after I made the decision to have my dress made by Anita and the team, mum told me that her wedding gown was designed by Vinka herself. My family home burnt down in the year 2000, and she lost her dress, so it was a very special connection and a magical journey for my mum and I to experience together from start to finish.

Tell us a little about yourselves, what you do, what you love…
CK – James and I are both wholehearted Aucklanders working in the Property Sector. When we’re not working we love checking out Auckland’s latest hospo openings for a glass of vino or spending a weekend out of town visiting our parents in Matapouri and Waiheke Island. James is also a player/coach for his U85 Rugby Team and a below average golfer and Cornelia is a keen yogi and coffee enthusiast.

How/where/when did you meet – and what were your first impressions?
CK – James and I were friends for 8 years before we took the leap to be something more. He’ll always say he never fancied me prior to this, but I like to tease him and say that he has always had a little something for me. We’ve been part of a big circle of friends, travelled as friends, been apart and stayed friends, and realised in 2018 we wanted to be more than friends. It was the easiest decision ever.

Was there a proposal? Tell us a little about it…
CK – The proposal was magical, after I stopped being a brat… James took me away on a surprise weekend to Matakana to a gorgeous Air BnB, where we arrived and he had secretly arranged fresh oysters, my favourite champagne and a walk on Tawharanui Beach. Ultimately, to cut a long story short, I was too tired and it was a bit gusty so I insisted on staying at the accommodation and having a glass of wine. James had to quickly figure out his plan B and got me outside onto the beautiful landing where he popped the question, overlooking Ti Point, Omaha and Point Wells. It couldn’t have been more perfect.

Tell us about the vision you had for the mood or style of your wedding…
CK – Knowing the Puketutu Estate had a very Tuscan feel, with plenty of stunning flora and natural greenery, I knew we wouldn’t need to add or do much to the venue to bring our dream day to life. We were spoilt by the sunshine, no clouds and a light breeze. Naomi from Leaf and Honey agreed that the season was perfect for my favourite flower, white peony, meaning we incorporated these as much as possible, including my bridesman walking down the aisle with a single stem. Foliage and candles on the tables for the reception was all we needed as the venue spoke for itself.

What was one element you were happy to splurge on?
CK – There were two. Our rings. James said to me early on, ‘aside from memories, these are the only things we are going to take away from our wedding day’. That was a no brainer.
The second was the venue. It had everything we ever wanted – close to Auckland City (by car), we could get ready on site, brunch provided for the gals, and a great events team.

Did anything happen on your wedding day that you laugh about in hindsight (even if it was stressful at the time)?
CK – There was apparently a bit of a drama getting the guests onto the coaches we had organised to pick everyone up at the end of the night. We were in a taxi on the way to our hotel accommodation and were frantically trying to liaise with the driver and a few of our guests (who had had a few). Everyone got home safely though!

Tell us about your main outfits, what was unique, is there a story?
CK – My mum took me to Vinka Design and after I made the decision to have my dress made by Anita and the team, mum told me that her wedding gown was designed by Vinka herself. My family home burnt down in the year 2000, and she lost her dress, so it was a very special connection and a magical journey for my mum and I to experience together from start to finish.