Hilary & Nick Photographed By Sophie Isabella

This adventurous couple’s love story began flying high over the Australian outback, with the two charter pilots meeting early in their careers in Darwin, Australia.

Currently residing in Dubai, Hilary and Nick chose the amazing industrial venue ‘Everybody’s’ in the Auckland CBD for their wedding- the perfect choice for a low-maintenance yet impressive destination wedding easily planned from overseas. White-washed exposed brick, foliage-laden split levels and industrial architectural details set the urban mood and backdrop to Hilary’s stunningly detailed Rue De Seine gown and jewel-toned bouquet by Film & Floral. A relaxed and fun wedding day style was the aim, full of special details including a close friend acting as celebrant.

Sophie Isabella Photo & Film recorded their day beautifully, with city backdrop shots perfectly capturing the urban essence of the day as well as an incredible video to treasure forever (see it here)

“Come sit with me, and we can watch the sun stretch in the sky as our city wakes ever so slowly into a beautiful day.”- R.J.L.

How did you meet and how long have you been together?
We met about 7 years ago in Darwin, Australia. We were both starting our careers working as charter pilots flying in the outback.

How would you describe each other?
Nick’s a legend, he’s my full-time adventure buddy, he’s full of fun and always knows how to keep me laughing!!! Hilary’s a gorgeous wee thing, a real genuine lady and capable of big things.

Tell us a little bit about the proposal and your engagement?
We flew to Taranaki, where Hilary grew up, to climb Mt Egmont. At the top Nick got down on one knee in the snow and popped the question! It was a massive surprise, he even had a mini bottle of bubbles he chilled in the snow to celebrate.

Tell us about your wedding style. What influenced your planning for the day?
We both live overseas in Dubai, so having an easy and fun day was the main priority. So Everybody’s in the CBD was a perfect venue. Everything was sorted for us by the venue coordinators which took all the hassle out of things. It’s an all in one venue as well, which is more relaxing not having to change venues halfway through.

Why did you choose your destination?
The venue is super funky, it’s a sleek, industrial style, urban venue so doesn’t require much in the way of decorations and preparation, it really speaks for itself. This made it an easy choice not being able to do much from overseas.

What was your favourite detail from the day?
Having one of our best friends as the celebrant! She did an amazing job and made it all the more special for us.

What was your favourite moment of the day?
Walking back down the aisle hand in hand with all of our favourite people celebrating with us was pretty rad.

What does marriage mean to you?
Having someone likeminded to help build an epic life together, full of adventures and plenty of laughs!

Who were your stand out vendors?
Without a doubt Sophie and Cam from Sophie Isabella Photo and Film. These two were superstars, we loved having them around on the day. They produced photos well beyond their years and a video which really captured just how much fun we had throughout the day! Also, Sam from Film and Floral did an amazing job. We gave her some very vague guidelines on the flowers and colours and let her use her creativity and amazing talents to produce the most stunning bouquets!

Any advice for other couples planning a wedding?
Relax and enjoy the day, don’t stress, and you’ll have the time of your life! It really is just one big party!

Do you have a favourite quote or piece of your vows you would like to share?

A Bob Marley reading from the wedding:

“He’s not perfect. You aren’t either, and the two of you will never be perfect. But if he can make you laugh at least once, causes you to think twice, and if he admits to being human and making mistakes, hold onto him and give him the most you can. He isn’t going to quote poetry, he’s not thinking about you every moment, but he will give you a part of him that he knows you could break. Don’t hurt him, don’t change him, and don’t expect more than he can give. Don’t analyze. Smile when he makes you happy, yell when he makes you mad, and miss him when he’s not there. Love hard when there is love to be had. Because perfect guys don’t exist, but there’s always one guy that is perfect for you.”