Ideally intimate
Frances Sim and Samuel Allen married at Sofitel Hotel, Viaduct Harbour Auckland, on Friday, November 7, 2014
Our love story Sam and I had known each other for years, but met up again at a good friend’s birthday in 2009. He proposed just before Christmas four years later – I knew something was up because he had insisted we have a picnic and was rushing around like a mad man trying to organise it. When we got to the park for our picnic he brought out a collection of my favourite treats, muttered some sweet sentiments about love and practically threw a ring at me! The big events We had initially booked a vineyard wedding for 120 people, but for some reason it didn’t feel very ‘us’. I floated the idea of inviting just immediate family to a reception at private dining room The French Kitchen, and Sam was quick to agree. We cancelled the vineyard and held the ceremony at Sofitel Hotel in central Auckland, followed by the dinner. The following weekend, we threw a party in Wellington to celebrate with our friends. My dream dress Because it was such a small wedding in an urban setting I wanted something that wasn’t traditionally bridal. After lots of research, I drafted several designs before looking for fabric. Faye Marmont brought my two-piece vision to life: an elegant crop top featured an intricate floral appliqué, while a high-waisted inky black skirt made for a classically elegant finish. Dining delight As lovers of good food and wine, we were attracted immediately to The French Kitchen, the gorgeous private dining space at renowned Auckland restaurant The French Café. Our 18 guests enjoyed dishes such as whitebait, fish, duck and a rhubarb dessert. Mum complemented the meal by making us a threetier fruit cake and decorating it with royal icing and sugar anemones. Groom service Crane Brothers designed Sam’s two-piece suit, which he wore with a white dahlia buttonhole and a bow tie that matched my skirt. His best friend, who flew from London to be best man, was the only non-family member in attendance. On the big day, the boys indulged in a wet shave at Barkers Groom Room. Something special Not inviting our friends was a hard decision, but people didn’t mind: throughout the day there were deliveries of flowers, cards and bottles of bubbly, along with a plethora of loving text messages. It was wonderful to know people were thinking of us. My advice for brides to be Don’t feel pressured to do anything if it doesn’t feel right. For us, a small event meant each of our guests could be involved in our day, which gave it a truly personal feel.