Rachel + Jeremy by Jo Currie Photography - Together Journal

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

On first impressions we seemed an impossible match and having met each other years prior, were both in fierce agreement of this position! The start of our relationship was a slow burn but there was this quirky, authentic connection which came about through shared values and experiences. This ultimately helped us persevere through the “yikes, I’m not sure if they like me” moments and we still smile at the unlikely pairing and our second chance at love, together.

We both lead busy lives in the construction sector, but in each other we find counsel at the end of every day, and our personal and professional worlds are quite the dichotomy. This goes to the heart of what unites us. We might start the week in a suit and finish on the racetrack or onstage singing karaoke. Our love and identity as a couple has evolved through our experiences which are undeniably unique, full of passion, coincidence and a myriad of different characters.

We live apart every second week, but in many ways, this is the ticket to creating space for desire and gratitude. It creates the incentive to make the most of every moment and there is always excellent food involved – dining out is definitely a main stay and if not, it’s some culinary wonder Jeremy has whipped up in the most methodical fashion. Lucky for us both, Jeremy can cook and clean as it’s fairly well known that I am the very definition of organized chaos and that Jeremy is the calm to my storm!

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 creative and have a very strong sense of our own style. It was imperative that our day was a reflection of us – traditional, yet relaxed, and that every element was considered as such. We wanted life in colour – through a variety of elements but most importantly fabrics, excellent food, wine and music. I’m so pleased that our vision came to life in this respect and whilst it was super hectic styling and planning everything ourselves, I wouldn’t change a thing.

I really can’t describe the theme, although it did start with a Spanish Moroccan influence at some point. The venue and date change required us to rethink and regroup, but that was part of the fun! Thank goodness for Auckland Stretch Tents and the magical venue that is Annie O’s Barn Door.

Tell us about your main outfits:

Both Jeremy and I are very tactile when it comes to fashion, which means fabric and form were critical considerations. I knew I wanted a custom dress and I had a very clear vision in mind. Ideally we wanted to explore a similar pathway for Jeremy’s suit.

When my mother re-married, she wore a gown by Vinka Lucas and as a little girl, I had the privilege of being part of this process. I remember heading along to meet Vinka at her studio. I was enthralled with her, with her designs and all the extraordinary fabrics. When mum gave me a nudge and said, what about a Vinka dress, it was the logical choice given I wanted something bespoke. I’d sketched up the gown I’d crafted in my head, however I was suitably swayed by the stunning lace and form of the Sabine Dress which was still in construction when I visited the showroom. It was a done deal and of course, was the first dress Anita recommended I try.

Jeremy’s suit was custom made at Working Style and the process was a dream. So much attention is placed on the bride and her gown and we both agree that there is real value in investing in something personalized for the Groom. The process at Working Style allows one to select the lining, the buttons, the style, the fabric and curate something personal. If you want your man to feel just as important, then don’t overlook this aspect.

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

We had our heart set on an autumn wedding but like many other couples, Covid threw us a curve ball. Then late last year, Jeremy had a serious car crash and my mum fell ill not long after. We never waivered and together, we pulled our socks up and became more determined to ensure our day was a riot, in good way. I can’t express how emotional and how special it was to have my mum walk me down the aisle and the groom in one piece waiting for me. Covid also meant we had the pleasure of some ex-pats returning from Melbourne and the US, so in a world where people are down-sizing celebrations, our invite list actually expanded.

It would be remiss of us to not mention the wedding car “Kenny” and our celebrant, Simon Speight. Jeremy grew up playing in the 1926 Rugby as a wee tot and through a dear friend, this car was reunited with us for our special day, albeit some 35 years later. Secondly, we met our celebrant some years ago at ShangiLils on K’Rd. We became instant friends and Simon actually started his journey as a celebrant after some discussion about his suitability for this special role. Simon is one of the most sincere and real characters you will ever meet and we wish him every success with his new found journey as a wedding celebrant! He did us proud.

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

As they say, start as you mean to go on. These days, in such dynamic and uncertain times, planning and actually delivering a wedding can be challenging. It comes with trying times for all sorts of reasons and could well be your first opportunity to work together as a team. If like us, you decide to be super hands on, make sure you support each other through this journey. Never assume the other is less invested in the process and always be sure to ask for help, for an opinion or assistance if you need it. The same advice is true for any other challenge you may face together, as husband and wife.

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