Raunchy dance moves, cake cutting and garter tossing are nothing compared to the antics that took place at Loren and Matt’s reception (this story was first featured in issue 18). Thanks to good old Uncle David (a seasoned party animal), a round of ‘Flaming Assholes’ was the go, making for one wild night. “It usually happens at my family’s New Year’s gatherings. You strip off to your underwear, tuck a length of toilet paper into your undies, set it on fire and run. The person who gets the furthest before the paper burns out wins. Guests were lining up to take part but unfortunately, there was a fire ban and (amongst her own laughter) the venue manager Claire had to shut it down.”
Held at Poronui, a stunning New Zealand venue, the couple admits they only actually visited one venue before realising it was the perfect fit. “We wanted somewhere that was luxurious yet Kiwi all in one. We wanted to accommodate our immediate family and closest friends with us for the weekend and for all our guests to feel relaxed and at ease. The fact that it was back country meant there was no cell phone reception, there was plenty of scenery to to take in and we felt fully immersed in the New Zealand outdoors,” explains Loren, who found her ideal bridal gown in Australian label Grace Loves Lace.
“I had been dreaming of wearing one of their dresses for years before we were even engaged, so the moment Matt proposed I already knew exactly which one I’d be wearing. The showroom experience was beautiful and the stylists were so amazing, nothing was rushed. They encouraged trying on as many dresses as you wanted all while sipping champagne sprinkled with rose petals. The dress I had been spying for those years was perfect, so much so that I never looked anywhere else.”
Matt too was a huge fan of his bride’s choice of fashion, telling us, “Loren had me absolutely mesmerised that I could not take my eyes off her, saying my vows to her would have been my favourite moment of the day.” While Loren says her fave memory was walking into the reception after spending the afternoon taking photos with their bridal party.
“Being introduced as Mr. and Mrs. Sullivan and seeing all of our friends standing up at the tables cheering us on and enjoying themselves made me realise just what amazing friends and family we have,” says Loren, stating that marriage means ‘having someone to that will constantly follow you around and pick up your shit’.
She continues, “It’s having a lifelong companion that you get to see not only looking their best; someone to share your struggles with, someone to laugh with (and at), to enjoy life’s best adventures with and to create memories with for years to come!”
Loving Loren’s gorgeous Grace Loves Lace gown? We do too, so why not check of these gorgeous GLL donning brides here, here and here. And whilst you’re at it, jump on over to our online store to purchase a past issue – the shipping’s on us!
CONTRIBUTING VENDORS Photographer Tim Williams Photography // Florist XOX Floral // Stationery MintyPaperieShop via Etsy // Ceremony and Reception venue Poronui, Taupo // Catering Yum Food Company // Cake and Other Desserts Kapiti // Marquee Taupo Hire // Festoon Lighting Lucy Chase // Entertainment Wine Country Entertainment // Celebrant Karen Morrison-Hume // Engagement Ring Ritani // Wedding Bands The Village Goldsmith // Transport Waipawa Buses THE BRIDE Bridal Gown Designer and Boutique Grace Loves Lace // Lingerie Bras N Things // Shoes Mi Piaci // Accessories Swarovski, Michael Hill and Salita Matthews // Makeup Hayley Beauty on Location // Bridesmaid Dresses Maurie & Eve // Bridesmaid Shoes Betts Shoes THE GROOMS Groom and Groomsmen’s Suits Tailor made in Vietnam // Shoes Rodd & Gunn // Socks Barkers // Watch Daniel Wellington.