Bride & Groom: Katie & Harrison
Planning & Styling: Winehouse
Gown: Monique Lhuillier Rose
Accessories: Jennifer Behr earrings, Manolo Blahnik shoes
Bridesmaids dresses: Solace London
Venue: Winehouse
Photography: Bayly & Moore
Videography: Joyride Weddings
Floral: Bespoke Weddings and Events
Celebrant: Your Big Day
Entertainment: Mountain Beats DJ Co
Makeup: Eve Makeup Artistry
Hair: Hair to Wed by Tina
Cake: Sophie Roseanna Cakes
How did your partner propose?
It was during one of the big Covid lockdowns. We had only just moved into our new place a couple of weeks prior, and Harrison’s original thought was to tee up the proposal with a housewarming celebration. When the lockdown hit and this didn’t go to plan, it ended up being pretty spontaneous! We had finished a bunch of chores and were sitting by our fireplace having a drink one afternoon, and he decided to go get the ring! It totally took me my surprise, it was so beautiful and intimate. Then we ordered Mexican, spending the night drinking many margaritas and calling family.
What was your vision for your wedding day?
We wanted it to feel classic and romantic, with a big party vibe for the reception!
Where did you look for your wedding inspiration?
I definitely found inspiration online through Pinterest and Instagram. I also bought a lot of wedding magazines throughout our engagement - it’s so fun having something tactile to flick through! Together Journal and Vogue are some faves.
What drew you to your gown from Helen Rodrigues Bridal?
I actually saw my dress originally in a Monique Lhuillier campaign online and fell in love with it straight away. I loved the colour, silhouette and the rose detailing. I tried on a bunch of incredible gowns at the boutique, but when it came time to try on my dress during the trunk show, it was an instant yes! So strange to say it but I just felt like myself when I had it on.
What was your wedding planning journey like for you? How far out did you start planning?
I loved the wedding planning process! We started just over a year from the wedding date. As we were having the celebration overseas, we wanted to get our Save the Date out as soon as possible to give guests plenty of notice. We were so lucky to have the incredible Sam and her team at Winehouse - they made the whole journey so seamless, especially as we were planning the wedding from afar.
What was the biggest decision you had to make?
Our biggest decision was definitely whether or not to have the wedding in New Zealand. It was always such a dream of mine as we spend a lot of time in Queenstown with family, it’s like a second home! We were worried it was a big ask for guests, as well as the massive travel restrictions in place at the time. After speaking to a lot of family and friends who were excited by the idea, we decided to do it. Thankfully, it worked out with restrictions - we felt so fortunate to celebrate with everyone in a place that is so special to us. So surreal!
What was the highlight of your wedding day for you?
Honestly, it’s too hard to pick! Walking down the aisle and seeing Harrison standing at the end was a major one. We also had the best time on the dance floor! We were super lucky as we travelled to Queenstown a week earlier with family and a big group of friends, so there were many highlights leading up to the day also. There’s a lot of heartwarming, funny, lovefilled moments from the week that we will treasure forever!
Is there anything you would do differently?
Get more sleep the night before! I left a few things to the last minute like writing cards and preparing gifts, so I only had a couple of hours rest before an early wakeup time. Wouldn’t recommend!
Is there any advice you would give other #HRBride’s?
Have fun with the planning and don’t sweat the small stuff! I also feel like this gets said a lot, but try to be as present as possible on the day. My maid of honour was so amazing at bringing me into a moment - in the car to the ceremony, during photos, sitting at the reception. She would turn to me and say, “Look around, soak it in, this is your wedding!” I remember those times so clearly - looking around, being surrounded by all of our loved ones for such a happy celebration. It really does make you feel so grateful.
My whole experience with Helen was a dream from start to finish! Coming into the boutique was beyond special, and I was absolutely over the moon when I found my beautiful gown. Helen, Sophie and the team are just incredible, and their expertise is second to none. I can’t thank them enough for being so helpful, accommodating and kind, whilst always making me feel so comfortable throughout the entire process. Thank you Helen from the bottom of my heart!
