Kate and Jonny by Jonny Scott Photo

I work in sales and Jonny is a project manager at his family business. We’re relatively low-key people so the idea of organising a day purely to celebrate us was hard to wrap our heads around at first.

Jonny and I met during our first year of university in Dunedin. We were neighbours and instantly drawn to each other. We’ve been together for over a decade now — our entire twenties! We got engaged during a family holiday in Norway in July 2019. Jonny and I set out on a hike and when we reached the summit, he rushed off with his camera. I thought this was to take photographs of the incredible views so I left him to it. But when I walked over the ridge, he was down on one knee. I’m so glad he filmed the moment. We celebrated with my parents and younger brother in the evening which made it all the more memorable. 

Jonny and I had planned to spend the majority of 2020 travelling North and South America. It was something we had dreamt about for years. We wanted one last big adventure before settling down. Prior to heading overseas, we booked the venue, photographer and a band for a wedding in late March 2021. But after an unforgettable three months in Canada, Covid-19 forced us home much earlier than expected. As heartbreaking as it was, we had our wedding to look forward to. 

Jonny and I spend a lot of time in Omaha. We both love the beach and the surrounding farmland reminds me of home so it was a natural choice of location. Our goal was to make the day as relaxing and enjoyable for everyone as possible, so we kept the styling simple, elegant and effortless. There was a lounge area with couches for cocktail hour and we used hanging lights in the reception room to create a soft mood. All of our vendors were incredible. Our stylist Kylie did the most amazing job and made everything so seamless.

My wedding dress was created by the incredible Meg from Kenny and Harlow. It was sleek, comfortable and I felt incredible in it. For the reception, I changed into a vivid blue Paris Georgia dress. The morning of the wedding was very wholesome. While the boys were off playing golf, us girls enjoyed an ocean swim and a very relaxing morning getting ready. The best decision we made was to extend the celebrations with a lunch the following day at Jonny’s parents’ beach. The wedding day flew by so it was really nice to be able to catch up with everyone. We underestimated how special it would be to have our friends and family come together. Seeing how excited they were for us made it really magical. I was adamant that marriage wouldn’t change a single thing but it’s certainly cemented what we already know about our commitment and love for each other.

videographer & photographer Jonny Scott  / bride’s outfit Kenny and Harlow  / groom’s outfit Suits on Broadway / location & catering Sculptureum / styling & flora Kylie at Liberty Event Styling / bride’s earrings Jasmin Sparrow / groom’s watch Partridge Jewellers / rings Naveya & Sloane / makeup Kate Solley @katesolleymakeup / hair Hannah Bylo / fragrance Jo Malone / bride’s shoes Loeffler Randall / groom’s shoes Hugo Boss / ceremony chairs & arch / Flock Events / stationery Just My Type / bridesmaids’ attire Celine Rita / groomsmen attire Suits on Broadway / bride’s reception dress Paris Georgia