Gabby & Mark by Laura Johns Photo

Tell us a little about yourselves, what you do, what you love, what is unique about you and your relationship…

We have been together for 10 years and are both busy business owners. Took us some time to get around to the wedding!

I guess we are unique in the way that we are both independent people who don’t sacrifice our independence or passions for each other. But that works for us and we have full respect for one another and support each other in our chosen careers. We share the same values and when it came to our wedding we both wanted the focus to be on the people and the party! 

Tell us about your special day, was there a specific theme or style? Tell us a little about the setting, the styling and some of your favourite details…

I wouldn’t say there was a theme as such but we were going for an evening/formal vibe with muted tones. Something that would withstand the test of time and not be dated in a few years. The reception venue held sentimental value as I grew up dancing in the Scottish Hall and have fond memories of the space. I guess you could say it was an unexpected choice but I knew with my crew of creatives we could transform it into something pretty special and unique. The dried floral installations have to be one of my favourite details as they really anchored the styling and totally transformed the feel of the space. It was a great choice, my friend/florist could do all the work prior to the big day and wasn’t rushed to finish things off right before the ceremony. It was incredibly special to be able to have so many friends involved and give them the creative outlet to go for it! 

Tell us about your main outfits:

Karen Willis Holmes Cassie Dress, altered to make bespoke for my own style and figure. Loved the simple silhouette but with highly detailed sequins and hand beading, glamour all the way but with such a timeless feel also. Barkers for Grooms suit and accessories. What were some of the most memorable/unique moments from the day? The Chapel with all the beautiful stained glass, and live music in there from the mezzanine floor was an incredible feeling, the helicopter ride to Mt Dasher, where the Groom spends all his time hunting and also overlooking where he grew up. The dance floor was also magic! 

Any advice for other couples planning to spend the rest of their lives together?

Do it absolutely your way, don’t try and please everyone, have the courage to remember what it is all about at the end of the day, focus on your top priorities for your budget no one notices the small things that you think might be missing! 

Photography: Laura Johns Photography | Videographer: Kara Jane Visuals | Ceremony location: Teschemakers, Oamaru | Celebrant: Suzy Mitchell | Bride’s gown: Karen Willis Holmes Paper Swan Bride | Groom’s suit: Barkers | Rings: Benjamin Black Goldsmith | Shoes: Dolci Firme | Jewellery: Karen Walker and Zoe and Morgan | Makeup: Tessa Simpson | Hair: Samara Fraser for Estella Hair Studio | Fragrance: Lubin Upper Ten | Bridesmaid’s outfits: Carly Harris | Groomsmen’s outfits: Hallensteins | Entertainment: Jetset (Band) | Styling: Tessa Simpson | Hire: Assembly Events (Tables and Chairs) | Flora: Cristy- The Bloomed Society | Catering and Beverages: Sally Ann Donelly | Cake: The Tart Tin and Whitestone Cheese