The Wedding Notebook · 7 February 2024 · 3 min read
In the picturesque backdrop of Queenstown, New Zealand, Mei and Alex tied the knot in a stunning winter celebration that was as unique as their love story. Their journey, which began on a dating app, had a sense of inevitable destiny, as they discovered they shared numerous mutual friends. A 5 year relationship lead to a romantic proposal in Queenstown and culminated in a beautiful wedding at the breathtaking Stoneridge Estate.
Choosing Queenstown for their wedding wasn’t just a nod to their engagement spot; it was a heartfelt homage to a place that held significant meaning in their lives. The couple, who relocated to Auckland in 2019, saw this as an opportunity to bring their loved ones to New Zealand, a place many had yet to visit due to the pandemic. The Stoneridge Estate, renowned for its mesmerising views and the convenience of being an all-inclusive venue, was the ideal choice for their intimate gathering of 70 guests.
The day blessed them with the warmest weather of the month – clear blue skies and just a whisper of wind. Their Catholic garden ceremony was heartfelt and intimate, filled with joy and laughter. But the adventure didn’t stop there. In a spectacular twist, the newlyweds were whisked away by helicopter to the peak of a The Remarkables for their photoshoot. The image of Mei, in her gorgeous, voluminous gown, fitting into a chopper and being carefully navigated across the snow, will forever be etched in the memories of the two lovebirds.
Mei and Alex’s wedding was a delightful blend of rustic charm and playful pop culture references, reflecting their personalities and shared interests. The decor was a tasteful mix of traditional rustic elements with fun, unexpected nods to their favourite movies and shows, creating an atmosphere that was both romantic and entertaining. The evening proceeded with a cozy dinner reception at the estate, accompanied by personalised touches such as handwritten notes to each of their guests in lieu of place cards and made complete by the warmth of close family and friends.
To cap off the night, the celebration moved to a local pub, infusing the wedding with a laid-back, authentic Kiwi vibe. In a world where weddings often become grandiose affairs, Mei and Alex’s wedding stood out for its sincerity, simplicity, and the genuine connection between the couple and their guests. It was a perfect reminder that at the heart of every wedding is love, and when that love is celebrated in a way that truly reflects the couple, it creates a day that is beautiful in its authenticity.
Venue: Stoneridge Estate, Queenstown
Photographer: Josh and James via Nomad Weddings
Videographer: Ayaka via Nomad Weddings
Planner: Emily via Stoneridge Estate Queenstown
Decorator: Stoneridge Estate and Queenstown Hire
Florist: The Flower Room
Bridal Gown (1): Julianne Syjuco Atelier
After Party Dress: Zia Wycoco
Bridal Shoes: Loeffler Randall
Bridal Jewellery: Swarovski
Rings: Naveya and Sloane
Bridesmaid dresses: Zoo Label
Flower Girl dresses: Spinkie
Groom’s Suit: Cornell’s Tailoring
Groom’s Shoes: Berwick 1707
Groomsmen Attire: Sherwin Mendoza Tailoring
Entertainment: Chad and Pol for Acoustic Duo, Mountain Beats (DJ), Rosalie Reyes-Co (Emcee)
Cake: Sophie Roseanna
Bridal Car and Chauffeur: Executive Cars Queenstown
Helicopter: The Heliworks
Guest transport: Resort Transport Queenstown
On-the-day Coordinator: Sue Arrowsmith
Priest Presider: Fr. Mark Napa
nvitations: Just Print
