Tell us a little about yourselves, what you do, what you love…
As a couple we share an appreciation for great food and wine, and love hosting our friends when possible. Cam’s known among friends for his culinary skills and great choice of wine.
We have a gorgeous 3 year old daughter named James who encapsulates our life. Tracey is a digital consultant and owner of Ollie & James, a designer petware brand, and Cam’s a Sales Manager for Pernod Ricard.
How/where/when did you meet – and what were your first impressions?
We swiped right, and after some outstanding banter from Cam, we agreed to go on our first date. It didn’t go completely to plan, but was memorable and something we will always be able to laugh about. We spent almost everyday after that together – when you know, you know.
When did you first realise that this was someone you’d like to spend the rest of your life with?
I’m not sure there was one moment, perhaps many. But mostly just an overwhelming sense of wanting to spend tomorrow together, a feeling that continues, then you realise tomorrow is forever.
Was there a proposal? Tell us a little about it…
We were modern in our approach to marriage. There was no question we wanted to get married, however already having a number of big life events (house and kids) that occupied our prior years, this felt like the perfect time to celebrate us. Over summer we decided to get married and locked in a date for three months later. So I planned a party and Cam found the ring. He chose a gorgeous diamond encrusted rose gold ring from the Italian jewellery house, Pomellato.
Tell us about the vision you had for the mood or style of your wedding…
Our most memorable meal was from holidaying in the South of France where we found a hidden restaurant down a long drive under overhanging trees which were dappled with fairy lights. With international travel being off the table in 2021, we decided to create our version of this memory in New Zealand – this time surrounded by our favourite people.
What was one element you were happy to splurge on?
The location was very important to us. As well as being an incredible location, with stunning coastal views and a European feel – Hillbrook Estate was also able to accommodate our friends and their young families, it was a BIG three days.
Did anything happen on your wedding day that you laugh about in hindsight (even if it was stressful at the time)?
It rained right up until minutes before the ceremony. The torrential, sideways, type of rain that sets in. Cam and the guys (still in casual attire) were furiously preparing plan B when all our guests arrived. Plan B got parked while the guys got dressed, and when they came out the rain had lifted and didn’t return for the rest of the day and evening.
Tell us about your main outfits, what was unique, is there a story?
With summer coming to an end, it was the perfect time of year for a long sleeved wedding gown and three piece suit. Tracey chose a minimalist long sleeve, wrap dress from Reformation, adding a statement earring from Superette and a diamante heel from Alias Mae. Cam has always held an appreciation for a great fitting suit, and chose a dark navy tailored suit from Working Style, adding a personal touch with his family crest lapel pin.
Photography: @kerynsweeneyweddings | Ceremony and Reception location: @hillbrook_estate | Celebrant: @iamjamiebowen | Bride’s gown: @reformation and @shonajoy_ | Groom’s attire: @workingstylenz | Rings: @meadowlarkjewellery | Shoes: @aliasmae | Jewellery: @superettestore | Entertainment: @ronjons0n | Marquee: @twelve_tables | Catering and Beverages: @_sugarfish_ | Cake: @olivejaycakes
