When Elaine and Gu first met at church, little did they know that their initial animosity would evolve into a beautiful love story. An impromptu Korean BBQ outing became the turning point in their relationship. What began as a casual meal led to heartfelt conversations and ultimately, the beginning of their romance in March 2015. Their journey together took a non-traditional route, shaped by circumstances and their spontaneous approach to life. They first bought a house together, registered their marriage on the auspicious date of 22.2.22, and later got engaged in February 2024—just a few months before their wedding in April 2024. Their spontaneity continued as Gu surprised Elaine with a honeymoon trip to the renowned music festival, Tomorrowland, shortly after their wedding.
Elaine and Gu’s decision to host their wedding at The Moonlight Lodge in New Zealand was driven by their desire for something different. Initially considering a local venue in Malaysia, they realised that the funds could be better spent on a destination wedding in a country their guests had never visited. New Zealand was the perfect choice, offering breathtaking scenery and a sense of adventure. With only 18 guests, their wedding was an intimate celebration, where each person played a significant role in making the day memorable.
The wedding day began with a leisurely morning at an Airbnb, where Elaine, a former bridal makeup and hairstylist, did her own hair and makeup. Surrounded by the stunning mountain views, the couple shared a quiet moment practising a dance they had prepared for the evening. The easy pace of the morning set the tone for the day—a day without a rigid itinerary, allowing everyone to enjoy the moment fully.
The journey to The Moonlight Lodge was nothing short of spectacular. The highlight for everyone was the helicopter ride to the lodge, offering breathtaking aerial views of the rugged landscape.Upon arrival at the lodge, the couple and their guests were greeted by Harriet, the host who meticulously organised every detail of the wedding. A tea ceremony was held, unexpectedly moving both the couple and their guests to tears. Despite their non-traditional leanings, Elaine and Gu found the tea ceremony to be a surprisingly meaningful and emotional experience.
As the sun began to set, the ceremony commenced. In keeping with their spontaneous style, the couple hadn’t selected a specific piece of music for the walk down the aisle. When technical difficulties arose with the microphone, they simply switched off the music, leaving only the natural sounds of the surrounding wilderness as they exchanged heartfelt vows. This unplanned silence added a poignant touch to the ceremony.
The couple didn’t adhere to a specific theme, opting instead for a fun and casual vibe. The decor reflected this, with bright colours and a disco-themed tipi tent that added a playful contrast to the rustic setting. The meal was a delightful surprise, with guests raving about the quality of the food. The menu featured local delicacies like Wakanui Beef Fillet and fresh oysters, paired with exquisite wines.
After dinner, the couple cut their wedding cake—a delectable carrot cake that left a lasting impression on everyone. Elaine then changed into a sparkling, feathered number for their dance performance, signalling the start of the night’s festivities. The evening was filled with laughter, karaoke, and dancing, with the group eventually winding down with a cosy breakfast of instant noodles the next morning, savouring the last moments of their unforgettable celebration.
Elaine and Gu’s wedding was unconventional in every sense, but it was also deeply personal and reflective of their relationship. For other couples considering an elopement-style wedding, Elaine’s advice is to focus on what matters most to you as a couple. “Remember to do this for YOU!” she emphasizes. Their wedding was not about meeting expectations but about creating a moment that was entirely their own—a “Weddingmoon,” as Elaine fondly calls it.
Vendor Credit:
Venue: Moonlight Lodge, Queenstown
Tipi Rental : Gather and Gold Tipis
Photographer: Stephen Yau Weddings
Videographer: Zoe Chow & JH Pixels
Decorator: Moonlight Lodge
Florist: L’Art Floral Design (artificial bouquet)
Bridal Gown (1): Doublewoot (helicopter ride)
Bridal Gown (2): Glamedge Bridal
After Party Dress: Glamedge Bridal
Groom’s Suit: Benjamin Barker Studios
Groom’s Shoes: Zara
Cake: Sophie Roseanna Cakes