Art deco delight
Enya Ho and Robert Shao married at Mantells Mt Eden, Auckland on Sunday, March 2, 2014
How we began Robert and I met during medical school and started dating soon after. We’d been together for six years when we took a trip to Sydney together. One night, dressed in his best suit and having rehearsed an elaborate speech, Robert got down on one knee on the balcony of our hotel. He forgot most of his speech, but luckily he managed to get the important question out! Location, location, location Tucked away in central Auckland, Mantells made both a convenient and picturesque reception spot. Its elegant, rustic interior was absolutely ideal for our art deco theme: we complemented its pared-back concrete interior with lush arrangements of pastel-coloured blooms. Florist Leaf and Honey gathered roses, lisianthus, tulips, hydrangeas and fern together in artful clusters. They made up my bridal bouquet and adorned eveything from the venue’s bathroom to each reception table. You’re invited Taking inspiration from the hanging lamps at Mantells’ entranceway, we designed a gold vintage lamp emblem that carried throughout our stationery. Printed on thick, creamy card stock our invitations featured a gold art deco motif and I finished them with a flourish of calligraphy. My dream dress Aiming for a romantic, other-worldly look, I chose a Rue de Seine gown that featured a sweetheart bustier with a French lace overlay and a floaty, pleated skirt. I accessorised with a waist-length veil, also from Rue de Seine, and diamond cluster earrings. A pair of nude Chanel wedges finished my look. A sumptuous feast Mantells has a snug dining room so we knew a sit-down meal would be the most comfortable option for our 60 guests. We enjoyed dishes such as smoked salmon fillet, Angus eye fillet and coconut panna cotta, while a towering banana cake topped with blush-hued roses complemented dessert. Suited up Crane Brothers created Robert’s custom-made suit. Its classic navy hue made it a versatile investment for the future, while the fabric’s subtle sheen provided a celebratory feel for the big day. My advice for brides to be The planning process can be stressful at times – we took the pressure off by treating vendor appointments as opportunities for romantic dates. For instance, we whiled away a Saturday afternoon with wines in hand as we listened to our prospective wedding musician play a pub gig – this approach made the planning process much more enjoyable.