Tell us a little about yourselves, what you do, what you love, what is unique about you and your relationship…
We both grew up in the small coastal town of New Plymouth, Taranaki. I’m a florist and freelance designer and brad is a builder…
We have always known of each other through mutual friends, however once we begun talking we realised we both had many things in common. Our mutual interest in hiking led to our first dates, they were a little different to many first dates, consisting of Syme Hut, The Pouakai track, Mt Taranaki and the tongorerio crossing. It was during theses times we built a solid friendship and we became best friends. We both have a love for the snow & sea, We often mission down the coast where brad surfs and I’ll take photos. We balance each other in everything we do.
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…
The day started off wet, it rained all morning. Everyone ensured us it was good luck and would clear. The sun came out for our ‘first look’, which took place in a ciff top paddock, overlooking Back Beach, New Plymouth. We loved this moment, being able to see each other, spend time together and talk. It made the ceremony to come so much more exciting! We then went down to the beach for photos, the sun warmed up the wet sand, creating steam – our photographer was very excited! We had photos in front of an old storage building opposite our current at the time studio apartment. It was quite cool getting some photos in front of the large roller doors. Doing the photos before the wedding and being able to spend time with our bridal party is something we’d recommend. It made everyone feel a little more relaxed.
The Ceremony took place at my Uncle Vince & Aunty Ann’s Private Garden. There are a few green fingers on my side of the family, including my late Opa, who was a keen gardener. It was such centimenal and beautiful venue, they worked so hard preparing, to get it looking flawless. The Ceremony was so special and intimate, filled with only good emotions. It turned out to be such a hot day, we mingled with family and friends during the afternoon tea. We were able to enjoy the moment, not having to worry about going off for photos as they were done prior.
Our Reception was held in Social Kitchen, a 10 min drive from the ceremony. We didn’t need to do much to dress up the space, as you can see in the photos, it’s a super low light, tasteful intimate space. Nicci Goodin and the girls added their beautiful floral touch. We enjoyed starters and champagne while listening to speeches. The food was AMAZING, served in a family dinner table style. We danced the night away with our closest family and friends.
Our main focus for the day was to make sure all our guest had an amazing time! We were super organized so the day ran smooth. We were able to fully relax and enjoy all the moments. We didn’t want a traditional wedding. Instead, doing things that were more ‘us’ instead of doing it because it’s ‘the thing to do’.
I designed all our invitations and stationary and hand painted all our signage used at the venues. As a florist I wanted the florals to be a little different, Nicci Goodin did struggle a little at the thought of her florist having ‘dead flowers’ on her wedding day haha. Quicksand roses, dried proteas, dried scabiosa and Toi Toi are some personal faves. Nicci and the girls did an amazing job, mixing dried and fresh florals, they were all so stunning!
We loved the idea of using a completely natural colour palette. Light and Sandy tones were definitely the mood, giving a slight beach feel. I like to think wedding style was relaxed and elegant. I’m not too sure if there’s one theme to describe our wedding theme. We picked our little things we loved and what became of if was ‘us’
Tell us about your main outfits:
The Dress was not what I expected to wear, I was looking for something a little more simple, but it’s funny how things change. It was better than I ever expected! I fell in love with the shape and colour tones of the Avril Gown by Rue De Seine. It was perfect, I felt so comfortable and relaxed the entire day.
Brad’s Blazer complemented the undertones in the dress. His dark pants brought in a little more formality and elegance. Brown detailing such as buttons, belts and shoes all tied in. Brads Dr Martens were a favourite, which he continues to wear.
White and cream linen for the groomsmens and bridesmaids, simple and relaxed. We wanted their outfits to be something they felt good in, and not a ‘wedding outfit’ but something they could wear again and again.
What were some of the most memorable/unique moments from the day?
The most memorable parts of the day was when we walked down the aisle as “Mr and Mrs Hickling” and entering our reception! Feeling the love of so many special friends and family in one space really was something!Also all the planning and little details – having an idea in your head of what it may look like and then seeing everything come together in real life was really exciting.
Any advice for other couples planning to spend the rest of their lives together?
Become best friends first. Everything becomes easy when you get to do it with your best friend!
Photographer: Abi Hackling Photography | Brides outfit: Rue De Seine – Avril Gown (white slip) | Groom & Groomsmen outfit/s: Barkers Clothing | Ring/s: Firewhite Jewellery | Brides Shoes: Therapy | Grooms Shoes: Dr Martens – Gaucho Crazy Horse | Makeup: Mode Hair |Fragrance: Miss Dior – Simply Blooming | Styling: Priscilla Creative |Flora: Nicci Goodin Designer Florist |Tableware Hire: The Dinner Table |Food/beverages/catering:The Dept. | Cake: Miss Monday Flowers | Stationery: Priscilla Creative |Ceremony location: Vince and Ann’s Garden ( Priscilla’s Uncles & Aunty’s Garden |Reception location: Social Kitchen |Celebrant: Chris Lee – City Life Church, New Plymouth
