Jason’s proposal was supposed to take place on the foreshore of our favourite beach in Sydney until unexpected rain foiled his plan. He was very determined to propose that same day and I arrived home to candles, vases of roses and a Champagne picnic. Coincidentally, the date he proposed is the same as my parents’ wedding anniversary. Surely a good omen!

Jason and I are both from New Zealand originally so we chose to be married in Hawkes Bay. It is one of the country’s finest wine regions and is located on the east coast of New Zealand’s North Island. It is also my hometown. I enlisted my sister to help plan the wedding because she works in project management. She was in London, I was in Sydney and the venue was in New Zealand. It was a tricky process.

Having a mother and older sister working in interior design was very handy when it came to styling the wedding. They were so generous with their time. I think it was definitely a labour of love! The reception venue inspired our colour scheme of white with hints of gold, pink and a striped pattern. 

We drew on the crisp and fresh feel of the marquee’s interior and added an abundance of flowers, crystal vases, furniture, plants and trees. As the venue was nestled amongst the vineyards, we decided to install a vertical garden in one of the corners where guests could relax on luxurious cream and gold lounges.

The display of flowers and shimmering crystal vases that surrounded our cake was the central feature at our reception. The 3-tiered chocolate cake was oozing with buttercream frosting and was lightly dusted with icing sugar.

Gown: Steven Khalil | Photographer & videographer: SugarLove Weddings | Reception venue: Sileni Estate, Hawkes Bay, New Zealand,  | Reception caterer: Orton Catering | Reception decorations: Monica Wealleans | Stationery: Papyrus Design, The Distlillery & Talisha Haakma | Groom & groomsmen’s outfits: WorkingStyle | Bridesmaids’ outfits: Rachel Gilbert