The day started with Lauren, her parents, and bridesmaids getting ready at an Airbnb in Lake Tarawera. They had a relaxed and enjoyable morning and Lauren was ready with time to spare.
The ceremony was held by their church pastor, who had traveled from Auckland to officiate their wedding. Reesan eagerly awaited his bride, gazing out over the lake until Lauren got closer. The look on his face when he turned around his face lit up with the best smile. During the ceremony, Reesan along with his parents and Lauren along with her parents, came together to light a joint candle, symbolizing their union as one family. It was a touching moment.
After the ceremony, we sped moved through bridal party and couple photos, ensuring Reesan and Lauren had ample time to spend with their guests. We stole a few moments at the lake to capture some stunning shots, and they all had so many laughs during the photos.
Returning to The Black Barn, everyone gathered inside for what we thought was going to be speeches but Lauren along with her dad on the guitar, surpised Reesan with a heartfelt song.
The food provided by Roam Food Caravan was a true highlight. The Hawker rolls and curry were delicious, and the Duck Island Ice Cream was the perfect dessert to cap it off.
After dinner, speeches were made, and Lauren's brother held up a printout of their sister's face while he spoke on her behalf. Reesan and Lauren then took to the dance floor for the first dance. It started off traditionally but quickly turned into a well-rehearsed surprise that amazed everyone.
As the night drew to a close, I stole Reesan and Lauren away for some stunning sunset photos. The sky, reminiscent of the one Blake and I had on our own wedding day at The Black Barn, wasn’t pink or golden, but it was still a soft and beautiful, gorgeous light.
It was an honor to be a part of Reesan & Lauren’s story, I absolutely loved capturing their day for them. Despite the challenges and setbacks they faced leading up to the day, they pulled it off with style and grace, It was a really magical day xx