Table of contents

Sarah & Luke

"We met online during the first lockdown in 2020. As soon as we were allowed to meet in person, we started dating properly. Our first date was at the Bridgeway Cinema—funny enough, we were meant to go for a walk, but it was bucketing down. So we grabbed a drink before the movie, and afterwards, Luke cooked us dinner at his flat. Three days later, we had our second date, and the rest is history."



"We moved in together about a year later, and in July 2023, we bought our first home. We moved in early 2024—and that’s where Luke proposed. It was by candlelight in our living room. He said that since we’d bought the house together, it felt like the perfect symbol of the future we were building. It was the perfect place to propose—and it really was."



What do you consider the best investment you made?

"For me, it was hands down our photographer. I couldn’t be happier with how the photos turned out. They captured the feeling of the day so beautifully. It means so much to have those memories preserved in a way that truly reflects the emotion and vibe of everything."




What’s one thing that surprised you about the day?

"How relaxed it all felt! We really tried to keep it low-stress from the start, and somehow we actually managed it—even on the day. We didn’t have a coordinator or anyone running the show, but everything just came together and felt so easy. It was the best day ever."



What was one non-negotiable for your wedding?

"Food trucks—100%! And it had to be in summer. We also really wanted space for backyard games. We wanted guests to have fun and things to do throughout the day, especially since both our families love games."


Did you include anything non-traditional in your wedding?

"Yes! Honestly, we didn’t try to follow tradition at all.

We skipped a sit-down dinner and went for food trucks instead. We had a pick-and-mix lollie station, skipped the parent dances (although my dad and I ended up having a spontaneous one, which was so lovely), and I changed into a comfier dress and sneakers after our sunset photos so I could dance without worrying about stepping all over my gown."



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

"Do what feels right for you as a couple. Focus on what’s important to you both, and don’t sweat the small stuff—because you honestly won’t be able to control everything. Let go a little. The day will be amazing in its own way, no matter what."


Thanks to all the contributing vendors:

Photography:
I Do Photography
Venue:
Waterfall Farm
Flowers:
Belle Bouquet NZ
Hair & Makeup Artist:
Melissa Hita
Videography:
Max Namkung
Food Trucks:
Go Go Mexico, Hash n Smash, Napoli Project, Cream Ice Cream
DJ:
Mix it DJ
Signage & Personalised Crossword Station:
Moosie Illustrator
Dress:
Hayes Bridal