On weekends, you’ll find us out adventuring with Morris or collecting firewood at Sam’s parents. Our home is always open to our friends and family, who often say it feels like a second home. While we like the idea of bringing our two families together, for us, marriage is about two people being who they are and sharing themselves openly and honestly. There is endless strength in that. Life hasn’t changed too much since our wedding. We are continuing our lives together and making plans for the future. People say this all the time and maybe it is a bit cheesy, but here it is: marry your best friend. Marry someone you can laugh with, cry with, and debate with, without losing any of yourself. I don’t think relationships should be hard nor do I think they should be perfect. You have to work at things together, while keeping that independent balance. Chloé: Sam is the most caring human I’ve met. I was instantly attracted to his sense of humour and confidence, his beautiful soul and his model looks. I love the way he treats other people, from friends and family to waiters and shop assistants. We laugh together every day and share everything with each other. As a feminist, I struggled with the idea of an old-fashioned tradition like marriage. I knew I wanted to spend the rest of my life with Sam but didn’t want to give up my independence. Sam found it difficult to understand my struggle, particularly when, a week before the wedding, I snuck to the tattoo parlour with one of my maids of honour, and had GIRL POWER tattooed on my arm. At the end of the day, what makes us work is that we support each other, even if we have different ways of thinking. Sam: Chloé is the most wonderful person I have ever met. Her smile, kind heart and love for people are among her most endearing qualities. She is genuine, always follows through on her promises, and puts others first. If I could do it all again, I wouldn’t change a thing.
Photography: Bayly and Moore Groom’s jacket: Working Style Groom’s pants and shirt: Ballantynes Groom’s shoes: RM Williams Bride’s dress: Dreamers and Lovers Hair: Michele Anna Makeup: Stacey Banfield Rings: Peterson’s Merivale Venue: Private family home in Lincoln, Canterbury Marquee flowers: Vic and Tegan Braces and ties: Barkers Bridal party’s flowers: Mrs Bottomley’s Bride’s shoes: Soludos Cake—Cheese Mongers, styled by Tommy Taco/Welles St Bride’s earrings: Tiffany and Co