KELSEY + DANE by Michael Schultz Photography

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

We first met in high school when we were just 14, and it’s safe to say it definitely wasn’t love at first sight! It wasn’t until Dane slid into Kelsey’s DM’s a few years later that our story really started. After months of Dane pestering me to go on a date, I finally said yes. 9 years later here we are!

Dane is a professional cricketer, currently completing a Master of Psychology and is the definition of a social butterfly. Kelsey works as a Medical Laboratory Technician and is the introvert of the two. With Dane traveling a lot for work, we both understand the importance of friends and family and love spending time with them, and our small pup Matilda!

We took our time, once we got to know each other as well as we could and had experienced a lot of life together, traveling, living in the UK, dating long distance it was obvious that this was it. After all the time Dane spent trying to win Kelsey over, the common joke amongst friends is how long it took him to propose! He had the ring hidden in the garage for months before popping the question!

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:

We are both wanted a timeless and romantic feel for the day so we ended up opting for a black and white colour scheme and everything fell into place from there. When we sat down to discuss styling for the day two words kept being repeated, florals and candles, and lots of them!

We got married early October under the leafless rustic vines of St Georges stunning outdoor patio. Naturally decorated it has such a romantic, organic feel which we complemented with floral covered pillars.

One of my favourite details from the the day was being able to wear my late Nan’s beautiful sapphire and diamond ring to complete my outfit. My nan loved all things weddings and it was a special way to honour her and truly made it feel as if she was watching over us on the day, whilst also doubling as my ‘something blue’.

Tell us about your main outfits:

I was so indecisive dress shopping as I had zero idea what I wanted! My mum and two very special friends joined me on my dress hunt, opting not to show my bridesmaids the dress until the big day. My dress was actually picked out by one of my friends after I had originally skimmed over it. Once it was on however it was definitely a ‘say yes to the dress’ moment.

Kelsey wore the Riley Luxe gown in Ivory by Made with Love Bridal, paired with hand beaded Melody heels from Forever soles.

Dane wore the Princeton Texture Tuxedo from Barkers Clothing, opting for a very classic and timeless look. Dane isn’t super flashy when it comes to clothing but knew he wanted something well tailored and simple when it came to choosing his suit.

What were some of the most memorable/unique moments from the day:

Due to Covid travel restrictions around the globe, we had some very close family members and friends who weren’t able to make our big day. However, this didn’t stop them enjoying the festivities! In true 2020 style we live streamed our wedding ceremony, speeches and first dance for those who couldn’t be there in person. In between celebrating with guests and ducking out for photos we were surprised with video messages from family in Ireland and the UK, which made the day even more special.

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

Enjoy the moment! Planning a wedding during a global pandemic is no small feat and it’s easy to get caught up in the ups and downs of changing restrictions and regulations. Take a moment to remember what’s important to you both as a couple, and remember its a celebration of your love and journey together!

Photography: @michael.schultz.photography | Ceremony and Reception location: @stgeorgesresturantnz | Celebrant: @fionaclearycelebrant | Bride’s gown: @madewithlivebridal from @bluebellbridal | Groom’s attire: @barkersclothing | Rings: @cameronjewellery | Shoes: @foreversoles | Earrings: @ameliegeorgebridal | Makeup: @josie_brenstrum_mua | Hair: @debbiepearcehair | Bridesmaid’s attire: @blakthelabel | Groomsmen’s attire: @barkersclothing | Entertainment: Tom The Band | Styling and Signage: @idoglamourevents | Linen: @tble.linen.hire | Hire: @flockevents | Flora: @botanical.lane | Catering and Beverages: @stgeorgesresturantnz | Cake: @karengscakes | Tans: @thetanningroomhbnz