One of my favourite phone calls to receive goes a little bit like this: “Hey Mel, I’m _____’s sister. You photographed their wedding last year. I’d love to book you to photograph our wedding too!”
I adore when the siblings of past wedding couples get in touch for their upcoming wedding.
I already know plenty of the guests and the family, and similarly, they’re already familiar with how I work (although it does mean I need to add a few extra jokes to my repertoire!). A few years ago, I photographed the gorgeous wedding of Melissa and Sam, so when Sam’s sister Laura got in touch, I jumped at the opportunity to capture their day too. She had met me at their wedding and spent plenty of time being photographed by me on the day as she was one of the bridesmaids, so we knew it was going to be a good time!
Laura and Liam’s wedding was held at Sudbury Farm on a perfect summer’s day for a Kapiti wedding.
The weather’s always that much warmer up the coast, and Sudbury’s location is the perfect spot for making the most of both the farmland and the nearby beach. And truly – the Kapiti Coast did not disappoint! Clear blue skies, beaming sun and roasting temperatures made for a day filled with plenty of laughter, smiles and happy tears.
Another familiar face at their wedding was celebrant Rachel Dudfield. Rachel has married so many incredible couples including Melissa and Sam (and I seriously can’t recommend her enough!). She’s a truly warm, calming, joyful presence on your wedding day.
It was an absolute scorcher, so we snuck under cover for the hugs and congratulations, and kept the creative shoot short (with plenty of time for shady breaks and sneaky, refreshing drinks). We knew we were in for a spectacular sunset at Te Horo Beach – and it didn’t disappoint! Just a two minute zip up the road from Sudbury Farm and we were on the beach, in the cool evening air, capturing some magical photos of Liam and Laura against a seriously epic backdrop.
Back to the reception – the festivities continued in full force! Liam and Laura wrapped up their gorgeous day by taking advantage of Sudbury Farm’s magical courtyards, and holding their first dance under the stars, followed by Liam and his groomsmen having a congratulatory cigar by the outdoor fire. I can hardly think of a more perfect Summertime Kapiti wedding!
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