Nature’s best
Nancy Train married Benjamin Coburn at Rippon Vineyard, Wanaka, on Saturday, January 3, 2015
Our love story Ben and I met while I was in New Zealand on a working holiday – I was working at Milford Sound’s underwater observatory as a guide, and he was a diver. I fell for him immediately and ended up extending my visa so we could stay together. Seven years later Ben bought a ring, and was so excited about buying it that he ended up proposing to me the same day! Setting the scene We spend a lot our of time camping and outdoors, so it seemed natural we would exchange vows outside too. Rippon Vineyard was the ideal choice, with its sweeping views over the vines towards Lake Wanaka. We decorated the vineyard’s airy tent with twinkling vintage chandeliers, deer antlers from Ben’s hunting trips and used little blue glass bottles to hold wild flowers. Clusters of baby tea lights created a romantic ambience. My dream dress My ensemble from A La Robe comprised a silk bias-cut slip, an antique lace top and a silk organza wrap skirt. Because I could wear them in different ways it felt like I had an outfit change for each section of the day! My accessories included a tea-coloured mantilla veil held in place by a floral crown, and an antique diamond brooch my grandmother had given me when I was born. It belonged originally to my great-grandmother Nancy, after whom I am named – so it was a very special ‘something old’! A sumptuous feast Following a selection of canapés, our 100 guests enjoyed herb-crusted lamb and whole-baked Stewart Island salmon, served banquet style at each table. To accompany dessert, my mother and sister made a naked lemon cake, drizzled with a rose glaze and decorated with strawberries and fresh flowers. Something special As we both love the sea, instead of a guest book we asked people to sign a print of an antique nautical map of New Zealand. It’s on our wall now, so we can enjoy it every day. For the boys Ben gave his groomsmen silk ties to be worn on the big day. Scattered with little deer silhouettes, they were a perfect reflection of Ben’s love of hunting. Shall we dance As a surprise for my dad, I’d asked my cousin to sing his favourite song with the band for our father-daughter dance. Having his niece sing made it an extra special moment for us. My advice for brides to be The day goes fast – be sure to step away and take a moment with your new husband to appreciate the celebration and the first moments of your new life together.