Keryn and Blake promised to spend the rest of their lives together surrounded by their loved ones and the stunning Fiji scenery. Photos of the day show the gorgeous couple full of joy and happiness as they celebrated amongst gorgeous views and the sunset sure made for some spectacular photos.
Keryn mesmerised in Korimako by Forget Me Knot, a whimsical A-line gown with floral and vine trailing lace. The layers of floaty tulle are an absolute dream and perfectly compliment the enchanting island venue. She completed her look with our Cut Edge Veil in sparkle ivory, a charming addition that adds the perfect amount of shimmer.
If you're planning an island wedding, we hope this provides some inspiration!
What was it that made this particular wedding dress catch your eye and fall in love?
When I had my Zoom consultation with Chrissy, I mentioned that I wanted something with a vine theme as the ring Blake designed has a vine of diamonds. She picked out some amazing dresses that fit the bill exactly. I picked Korimako because it was so light, flowy and silky, and had a gorgeous train, perfect for the tropical weather.
Tell us about your search for the dress and the experience at Astra Bridal.
I had the best experience at Astra Bridal. It was the first store I went to and I picked the 5th dress I tried on. Chrissy was so sweet and had plenty of tissues on hand. I also got 10% off my dress for working in the hospital!
Tell us your story, how you both met, and the proposal.
We met in medical school during Fresher’s week, started our relationship then, and celebrated 10 years of being together on our wedding day. Blake planned to propose in Fiji on our first holiday after we moved to NZ from the UK, but couldn’t because of COVID lockdown. He had told my whole family his intentions before we left the UK in 2020. Instead, he took me to St Arnaud in the Nelson Lakes National Park and proposed on the jetty. Since he missed out on the opportunity in Fiji, we decided to get married there instead!
What was your favourite part of the day?
Our first dance to Metallica's ‘Nothing Else Matters’. Neither of us are dancers so took waltz lessons for 7 weeks at Footwork Studios in Hamilton prior to the wedding.
Tell us about your wedding day as a whole.
On the morning I got ready in mine and Blake’s suite with some fizz whilst he went to the swim up bar with the boys. It was an afternoon ceremony, so the reception would fall at sunset.
The morning was very windy and my maid of honour had to stand on my veil during the ceremony, so it didn’t get stuck in the arch. By the time the ceremony was finished, it was a gorgeous sunny day and we had the most beautiful sunset.
The reception was a blast. We hired some fire dancers who treated us to a spectacular performance, then had an anniversary dance where we gave out a prize to the couple that had been married the longest (Blake’s Aunt and Uncle). We had an awesome international buffet before the party really started. DJ Works did an amazing job at keeping us on the dancefloor all night.
When we returned to our room, there was a bottle of sparkling wine waiting and the room was filled with rose petals.
Finally, what is your biggest piece of advice for brides to be?
Don’t get stressed out! Small mistakes will happen, but on the day you will be too happy to notice. Focus on what really matters- saying ‘I Do’ to your special person and celebrating with your loved ones. No one will remember what colour napkins you pick.
