For their wedding, New Zealand couple Sarah and Tom could think of no better way to celebrate than to pack up their families and head for a place that had previously captured their hearts. It was a cosy intimate affair with only 12 guests. They hired decor and lawn games, brought in a caterer and relaxed into the day.
Planning the day itself was as simple as booking a hair stylist and makeup artist for the bride, her sisters and mother, ordering some flowers from a local florist, and booking a photographer. The one crucial element they needed was a celebrant, and that’s where Sarah’s Dad came in, making for one very special ceremony indeed.
Sarah says she wouldn’t change a thing – especially not their destination or small wedding. Of course she was pretty happy with her choice of hubby too, saying, “He is the funniest, kindest person I know… and my best friend so it was a pretty easy decision!”
Images by Lisa Pearl Photography
The Location
“We chose the Sunshine coast as it was warm, beautiful and accessible from home. On our last trip there we had fallen in love with the charm of Montville so decided to have our ceremony there. We found the Montville Lake Terrace online and it exceeded our expectations!”
Destination Elopement
“Trying to plan a low key wedding that was special and intimate – a day where we could just relax and enjoy the time with our families.
“All of the suppliers we used were amazing – friendly, easy to deal with via email from New Zealand, and all did a beautiful job.”
Wedding Secrets
Biggest splurge: My dress.
Best money-saver: Eloping!
Bride’s dress: Lovers Society
Honeymoon: Noosa
Number of guests: 12
The Big Surprise
“The most emotional part of the day was surprising our families by announcing I was 12 weeks pregnant. Our wee bub is due in a month, so that should be a pretty big adventure!”
The Proposal
“We got engaged in Vanuatu last year. It was our second time visiting, the first time was our first holiday together so it is a special place for us.”
Photography: Lisa Pearl Photography | Flowers: Willow Bud | Hair: Sass & Niki’s Wedding Hair | Makeup: Sally Townsend Makeup Artistry | Venue: Montville Lake Terrace | Catering: The Canape Project | Rentals: Simply Style Co. | Celebrant: My Dad!
