Nicola and Brendon said "I Do" surrounded by their loved ones, with the stunning ocean views in Raglan as their backdrop. Their day was filled with joy and celebration, and the photos perfectly capture the couple enjoying every moment together.
Nicola mesmerised in Rylee by Rish Bridal —a boho luxe fit-and-flare style adorned with soft botanical lace and a daring plunging V-neckline. The sheer lace side panels added a beautiful, delicate touch, while the low back created a truly showstopping look. Nicole lowered the back of her gorgeous dress to make it more daring.
We hope you enjoy scrolling through their day as much as we do!
What was it that made this particular wedding dress catch your eye and fall in love?
I loved the way it fit me. I fell in love with the boho look and the beautiful lace! It was also very comfortable and soft—there’s no structure to it, so it just fit like a glove, and I felt free and liberated in it!
Tell us about your search for the dress and the experience at Astra Bridal.
I had been to a couple of bridal stores in Auckland, etc., and had found lots of dresses with aspects of what I wanted but not 'the one.' I went into Astra Hamilton, and Khym listened and was SO helpful and friendly. I tried on some from the Rish collection and just felt like that was my style.
Tell us your story, how you both met, and the proposal.
We met in Auckland in 2020—both work in construction—and fell in love pretty quickly! We moved to Raglan in 2022, and Brendon proposed on the 7th green at Raglan Golf Club one beautiful summer night in March 2023! We followed it up with champagne and a picnic at sunset, overlooking the beach and the points in Raglan. Eleven months to the day later, we got hitched overlooking the same breathtaking view!!
What was your favourite part of the day?
Waking up and seeing the perfect weather! Walking down the aisle to Everlong being played live (acoustic version) by the band, and popping the champagne for the champagne tower!
Tell us about your wedding day as a whole.
Raglan turned on the perfect February day—sunny blue skies. This was really my only stress, and we got so lucky! It was so much fun staying at the venue the night before with the girls and getting ready there that morning. We did a little workout on the deck as the sun came up, followed by coffee and champagne. Brendon and the boys went for a surf before the festivities, and we just had so much fun together, hanging out with all our favourite people! The next day, we had a recovery party at the venue, where everyone came back, partied, swam in the pool, and hung out. It was so much fun!!
Finally, what is your biggest piece of advice for brides to be?
Keep it fun! I highly recommend continuing the party the next day, as the day goes by so quickly, and the next day is such a great chance to catch up with everyone when you have more time!
