I have something of a CVB first for you today – today’s real wedding is the first from New Zealand! I can’t believe it…. it doesn’t seem possible…… we all know Kiwi brides, grooms, photographers and wedding planners can do chic, elegant, vintage/whimsical/retro weddings as well as our dear neighbours (if not better :-)) and yet it’s true, today’s is the first New Zealand wedding on CVB! And I couldn’t be more excited to be able share this Snell Beach DIY Wedding because not only is it the sweetest real wedding treat you will see this week, but it was also captured by incredibly talented but somewhat new photography team Ben & Elise from Benjamin & Elise Photography……

(how cute are the bridesmaid’s peach espadrilles?!)

From that little teaser you would never guess, and I suspect will struggle to believe me when I tell you, that this was only Ben & Elise’s 4th wedding (yes you did read that right, 4th!…incredible isn’t it) I am such a fan of this wedding and of their work that I have no doubt they are going to go on to great things – and that it won’t take long for their diary to get booked up, so if you love these photos as much as I do, be quick!

Gorgeous bride and groom Clare and Simon wanted to steer clear of a ‘theme’ as such, they wanted their day to be eclectic and a true reflection of their personalities and I think they more than succeeded – from their vintage Volkswagen and homemade flags and ceremony backdrop to the beautiful venue by the sea for their rustic reception, everything said them……

“Our ceremony felt so special and personal and it felt so  incredible to have all our favourite people all in the same room, there  to support us! After the ceremony we all gathered outside under the  shade of a parasol and enjoyed munching on some popcorn, lemon cupcakes  and sipping on Melon Lime and bitters.” How yummy does that sound? Summer perfection!

“Our reception began a few hours later with drinks and nibbles outside  by the oak tree. The sun was setting over the water as we had a jazz  band playing and hay bales (with blankets on top) for seating. It was  such a lovely relaxed setting to return to after having our photos  taken.” The dinner, by Lindy at Feast catering, was served on  miss-matched vintage plates that the bride’s Mum had diligently collected for months leading up to the big day. Dimmed white festoon lights which were hung from the rafters, but other than that decoration was kept  to a minimum as they wanted the rustic charm of their chosen venue to shine through – and it does!

The cake was made by the groom’s mum and the bride – what a great way to bond with your future mother-in-law 🙂

Such a sweet sweet wedding, there is nothing not to love about it – I have hair envy, Clare’s hair is so luscious, her updo looks so effortless and the floral headband is just gorgeous and the shots of the Clare & Simon in the romantic field of wild flowers just absolutely compliments the relaxed rustic feel of their special day. You can see more amazing photos from Clare & Simon’s wedding on Ben & Elise’s blog.

What a way to start the week 🙂

Amy

x

Photographers – Benjamin & Elise Photography

Bride’s Shoes – Ceremony shoes from Forever New, reception flats from Factorie

Bride’s Headpiece  Flower crown made by florist, Evelyn Rippon – [email protected]

Groom’s Attire – Shirts by Barkers, Bow Ties handmade by the Groom’s Mum, suit jackets by Peter Jackson

Bridesmaids Dresses – Huffer (NZ)

Bridesmaid’s Shoes – Hannahs

Cake – Made by the Groom’s Mum

Flowers – Evelyn Rippon – [email protected]

Catering – Lindy at Feast:

Decorations – Handmade