Island ESCAPE

Kelly Jones and Andrew Hamilton-Wallace married at a private home in Oneroa, Waiheke Island, on Saturday, April 4, 2015

We were on our way to dinner when Andrew suggested we stop at Auckand Museum. When we got there, he told me to wait by the car, then he lit a wish lantern with the words: “Kelly, will you marry me?” on it. Of course, I said yes. Island love Waiheke was where we had first talked about getting married, so it seemed a natural place to tie the knot. We recruited Waiheke Island Weddings and Events to find private homes and venues that not everyone had used. The minute I arrived at our chosen venue, with its airy deck and twinkling harbour view, I knew it was the one. Our wedding style The brief we gave our stylist was intimate, fun, romantic and a little glam. Our blush and gold palette worked nicely: pink blooms were woven amongst chandeliers that hung from the marquee ceiling, gold sequin runners added twinkle to tables and Andrew made a giant sign that said “Love”, illuminated by lights. A sumptuous feast After a sit-down meal of dishes such as buffalo mozzarella with basil and tomatoes, and hapuka fillet with micro greens, our 60 guests indulged in our wedding cake made of cheese, and a chocolate whiskey ‘groom’s cake’. My advice for brides to be Be decisive! With all the choices these days it’s easy to be overwhelmed, so just go with your gut. And don’t worry if things aren’t completely perfect on the day. Only you will know! The day is about marrying your love, not all the beautiful extras.