Real Wedding

Pari & Kirk

Pari and Kirk’s story began in 2015 when their paths crossed at work. Pari, new to New Zealand, was eager to meet people and mingled during Friday night drinks with colleagues. Kirk, on the other hand, was shy and reserved. Initially, the two didn’t pay much attention to one another, but over time, they started talking more through mutual friends. Their first real connection happened during one of these Friday gatherings, where they shared their first kiss.

After that night, Pari disappeared for a month. Overwhelmed by the idea of being romantically involved with a colleague, she took advantage of a work opportunity to escape and process her feelings. But eventually, she had to return and face Kirk. Their mutual attraction was undeniable, and they soon agreed to go on a date. Wanting to keep things professional, they decided to keep their budding relationship a secret at work.

However, their cover didn’t last long. During a project celebration, the pair attended separately but left together. As they walked home hand in hand, they were caught by Pari’s boss, who wished them a good night, leaving no doubt about their relationship. From that moment on, they were officially a couple.

Fast forward eight and a half years to 2022, and Kirk was ready to take the next step. He secretly purchased a ring and planned the perfect proposal. The setting was a cozy getaway cabin in the woods, where he and Pari could escape for a weekend.

On the first day, they decided to explore the area, but most of the walking tracks were closed due to flooding. Pari, frustrated by the lack of scenic views and battling terrible hay fever that left her eyes swollen, found little joy in their outing. At one point, her symptoms became so severe that they considered a trip to the emergency room, but thankfully, they managed to get things under control.

As the day wound down, they lit a campfire, and Kirk waited for the perfect moment to propose as the sun set. Just as he was ready, rain began to fall, forcing them back inside. Pari opened a mysterious bottle of champagne, blissfully unaware of what Kirk had planned. She soon fell asleep on the couch, exhausted from the day. When she woke up, there was Kirk, down on one knee, holding the ring.

Pari’s first response was a mix of surprise and humor: “But I don’t even look good—I’ve just woken up!” Laughing and crying all at once, she said yes. Their journey, filled with twists, laughter, and love, had reached a new and beautiful chapter.