Tropical CELEBRATION

Swaying bamboo and banana trees set the scene for ROYA REZAEI and SHAHAB INTEZARI’S intimate nuptials.

Shahab and I met seven years ago through mutual friends and kept in touch even though we were living in different countries. It was when he came to visit me in India – one of the best trips we’d had together – that he proposed. Four years on, we held our summer nuptials at Auckland’s Landsendt with 30 of our closest friends and family. I’d always dreamed of an outdoor wedding and the venue’s tropical feel with its swaying bamboo and banana trees was exactly what I had in mind.

Our colour palette of blush and gold informed our styling for the day. Our ceremony and reception both took place under the venue’s white high-top marquee. The guests’ tables were decorated with transparent, raised stands adorned with blush and white flowers

and split-leaf philodendron fashioned by Stylish Weddings and Events, while our bridal table was draped with an orchid and hydrangea runner with masses of white candles arranged at the foot of the table. My bouquet was stems of white orchids, my absolute favourite flower, and a flower wall by The Flower Wall NZ was a fun addition for photos.

After our delicious buffet dinner we enjoyed a three-tier white fondant cake from the City Cake Company in three yummy flavours: lemon, white chocolate and mud cake, decorated with lovely floral detail.

My wedding gown was an elegant number by Pronovias from Modes. It was sleeveless dress with a detachable train and lace details at the back and front; I fell in love with it as soon as I tried it on. I kept accessories minimal, wearing a pair of earrings gifted to me by my mum.

The wonderful night ended with a ‘last dance’ between just the two of us; guests were given a handful of petals to throw our way. It was so magical, truly the highlight of the night.