Having done life together for nine years so far, Dani and Stephan lovingly joke that they were kinda like “an old married couple” even before tying the knot. To these newlyweds who wed in Wanaka, New Zealand, marriage is a celebration of their growth and a commitment to their ongoing journey together. Dani and Stephan’s choice to sneak in a celebratory helicopter ride gets a big thumbs up from us, and with that scenery, how could you not? Also among the duo’s favourite details was the florals, and we’re hardly surprised, seeing as they were the work of The Green Room Flower Co. Not only are these folks total flower magicians, they’re also the bride’s very own workmates, making for some extra meaningful blooms. “I left most of the design up to the gals at The Greenroom. They absolutely nailed it; I couldn’t have asked for anything more!”
Superbly captured by Mickey Ross, this one’s going to take your breath away, so scroll on to soak in all the goodness from Dani and Stephan’s day.
THE VENUE “For me (Dani), working in the wedding industry, I had been to the venue before. I loved the set-up [of Maple Lodge Wanaka in that] family could stay. It was still close for guests to travel to from other Airbnbs. It was relaxed and allowed us to have the type of wedding we wanted.
THE VIBE “We didn’t really have a particular theme. We have such an eclectic taste. We wanted to create — a relaxed, informal, fun day with a sprinkle of razzle-dazzle. Kind of like a Luxury backyard wedding.”
LITTLE LOL “We almost forgot to get wedding bands! With so much going on, it just completely slipped our minds. Luckily, Stephan’s uncle works in the jewellery industry and managed to fast-track us some stunning bands.”
THE DRESS “It took me a bit of time to find something that suited my vision (I never wanted the classic white dress). I must have been searching for 4-5 months, and I came across the gorgeous designs from Lucy Can’t Dance. I was a bit nervous at first as they are based in the UK, and I wondered about not being able to try anything on, but honestly, it was such a simple, easy endeavour. I had a Zoom call to look at the few designs I liked and knew would be easy to alter. The girls were amazing and took their time to explain the pros and cons of each style. The second Zoom call I had once I picked my dress was to take measurements. It arrived a few months later, and it was stunning! I just had a few minor alterations.”
WE’RE GLAD WE… “We made a last-minute choice to have a local musician play (Tai Forrester) for our cocktail hour. Best choice. The helicopter flight we splashed out on as a little treat. It was great to get away the two of us.”
A WORD OF ADVICE “Remember, the day is to celebrate the two of you coming together. Don’t feel like you have to stick to traditions. If you have the budget, get a planner or on-the-day coordinator! Some things may not go to plan and that’s OK! Enjoy the journey; it’s worth it all in the end.”
If you’re a big fan of those florals, why not drop the team at The Green Room Flower Co a line? Dani herself may even end up being the florist responsible for your blooms! We’ve got their details right here for you on the Hello May Directory. Hosting your nups in NZ? We’ve got some treats just for you! Get to know some of our fave NZ-based vendors here, or take a peek at more real weddings over here.
CONTRIBUTING VENDORS Photographer Mickey Ross Photography Florist The Green Room Flower Co Venue Maple Lodge Wanaka Catering The Stoaker Room Cake Maker White Rabbit Cakes Hire Items Major & Minor & Gather & Gold Teepee Gather & Gold Tipis Signage Spearmint Signage Studio Entertainment Tai Forrester Celebrant Stevie – Married By Friends Rings Albert Smith (Friend) Transport Wanaka Helicopters THE BRIDE Bridal Gown Designer Lucy Can’t Dance Veil Hera Couture Robes LilysRomance via Etsy Shoes Harriet Wilde Accessories Meadowlark & Simply Stone West Coast Hair & Makeup Kate – Super Hair0 Perfume Karen Walker THE GROOM Suit, Jacket, Shirt, Pants & Shoes YD. Grooming Ali Barbers
