A wildflower inspired garden wedding at Ataahua Garden

Set within the manicured gardens of Ataahua Garden, Ella and Cam’s ceremony was interwoven with a sense of sentiment and timelessness. Bright wildflowers were the hero of the day, complimenting the surrounding lushness of the surrounding gardens. The garden reception used a simple palette of white linens for the tables as a beautiful contrast to the bright pops of colour.

This beautiful soiree was captured by Lovers by Ruby Jayne.

How did you meet and how long have you been together?

We met during High School, I was at Tauranga Girls College and he was at Tauranga Boys College. We have been together for 10 years. Total high school sweethearts.

Tell us a little bit about the proposal and your engagement?

We have lived in Wellington for the past 7 years and once a year in summer we visit the Wellington Zoo. Its become a little tradition. I think Cam knew that if he planned something out of the ordinary I would have be onto him! And so he proposed to me on a sunny summers day on our annual Zoo trip. I was completely surprised, and THRILLED.

Tell us about your wedding style. What influenced your planning for the day?

We wanted the simplicity of a garden venue where the beautiful trees and greenery provided a stunning natural setting. But we also wanted lots of colours to create a fun vibe. So we went with wildflowers for our colour palette and styling – all of our flowers were grown by my Mum and her friends in their home gardens which felt really special.

Why did you choose your destination?

Our venue was on the same road, 2km down from my parents place and where I grew up. This was incredibly special to have our wedding in amongst the community that raised me, also helped make the day less stressful.

What was your favourite detail from the day?

I think the way the bright colours just contrasted so beautiful against the beautiful venue – its just felt so happy, and not overdone.

I also loved my dress – I felt so myself.

Did you have a stand out vendor from your Wedding?

Our photographer Ruby was absolutely amazing. She had fun with us, made us feel so comfortable and relaxed and her photos are more than I could have dreamed of. She captured so many special moment. She really understood the feeling we wanted captured.

What was your favourite moment from the day?

I had so many. But I think a standout would be exiting the ceremony into the garden with Cam and the bridal party and just turning around to each other like “OMG we did it”, so much excitement and special to share just with our best friends.

What does marriage mean to you?

So many things, but I think most importantly loving each other with no conditions and showing up every single day to be there for one another. We are best friends, and this is such a beautiful foundation for a marriage.

Advice for other couples planning a wedding?

Don’t over think your decisions. If you loved it in the moment go with it, then move on. I think these days wedding content is everywhere and you can get so lost in it you question what you actually like.

On the day – stick by your partner, there is a lot going on but afterwards you want to have shared the experience.