Jake & Mariana

"Jake and I met in a nightclub during an iconic Mount Maunganui summer when we were 18. He bought me a Jägerbomb, and the rest is history."

"We grew up together, surviving long distance for two years and navigating the ups and downs of our 20s.

We built our first home together—our biggest and most exciting project—and got our first fur baby, our cat Olive, one month later.

Jake proposed a month after that in our lounge, using Olive's collar to hold the ring. It was the perfect proposal."

What was one non-negotiable for your wedding?

"We wanted the flexibility to personalise our wedding and make it truly us! A big party that reflected our cultures coming together was a must (I am Brazilian, and Jake is a Kiwi), so having the ability to self-cater food and drinks and no official end time (we love to party!) was essential."

What do you consider the best investment you made, and why?

"Vendors that I trusted! This meant I could fully relax on the day."

Did you include anything non-traditional in your wedding?

"We had Jake walk his mum down the aisle and all the groomsmen to follow. This was so special because we could acknowledge the big part my mother-in-law plays in our lives and follow Brazilian tradition."

What advice would you share with other couples beginning their wedding planning journey?

"Remember why you are doing this—to celebrate your love with your friends and family. It can be so easy to get caught up in the small details and forget the purpose of the day. Enjoy every second; it goes too quickly. And do not underestimate planning! Invest in a planner if you can."

What is one thing that surprised you?

"How difficult can it be to plan a wedding yourself? There are so many moving parts, and it can be overwhelming to fit it all in whilst working full-time (investment in a planner is a million times worth it)."