Jaimee and Ryan made their vows to spend forever together at the enchanting Woodlands Estate. Their special day was filled with happiness and joy, captured perfectly in photos showcasing the couple deeply in love and celebrating every moment together.
Jaimee looked absolutely stunning in Danielle by Forget Me Knot, a floral lace A-line gown featuring a dreamy tulle skirt. The lace motif cascaded into the skirt, and the detachable off-shoulder sleeves added a whimsical, romantic touch. She completed her bridal look with our Sophia veil—a short, pearl-edged veil that added the perfect touch of sparkle.
Keep reading for a look into Jaimee’s dress shopping journey and some wedding inspiration.
What was it that made this particular wedding dress catch your eye and fall in love?
As soon as I saw it online, I fell in love. I had never tried on a wedding dress before, and being a bigger girl, I wasn't sure it would suit me. I loved the floral detailing scattered around the skirt of the dress, and I also loved the sleeves. It was the second dress I tried on, and I knew instantly, but I still wanted to take full advantage of the experience, so I tried on a few more. However, nothing compared.
Tell us about your search for the dress and the experience at Astra Bridal.
It was actually super easy! Astra Bridal was the only place I went to. I loved being able to look at the website and pre select dresses to try on. Khym was amazing every step of the way. She made me feel so comfortable and listened to what I wanted. She didn't feel like a 'sales assistant'; she felt like a friend.
Tell us your story, how you both met, and the proposal.
We met on Tinder! But if you ask my husband, he will always say the supermarket. Ryan proposed to me on my birthday getaway, a few weeks before our 4 year anniversary (which was when I expected him to propose). I had always joked that I would know when he was going to do it because I plan most things, and he would be visibly nervous. So, when he proposed to me in a private pool at the Polynesian Spa in Rotorua, I was totally surprised!
What was your favourite part of the day?
After the ceremony and all the photos, we found a little white park bench that overlooked the venue. We got to sit down, talk, and just be with each other, surrounded by all the beautiful flowers and greenery, while watching all the people important to us having fun in the distance, knowing they were there to celebrate us.
Tell us about your wedding day as a whole.
It was a sunny and very windy day, but I wouldn't have had it any other way. I was able to get ready onsite, so the room we got ready in overlooked the ceremony area. It was cool to see everything come together throughout the day. We had a relaxed morning with food, drinks, and a lot of laughs. Our ceremony was very special, as we had a family friend who my husband has known for years be the one to marry us. My granddad did a special reading, and the rings we used were all family rings. Ryan got to use his dad's wedding band, and I got to use my mum's, which is now paired with Ryan's mum's engagement ring. I still think about the food at our wedding, especially the bread rolls! Our caterers were outstanding. The reception went by so fast, with dinner, speeches, and making the rounds talking to everyone, but we still found time to sing my favourite song at the top of our lungs.
Finally, what is your biggest piece of advice for brides to be?
Listen to your gut and enjoy the journey!
