Jo & Ellaine Photographed by Chasewild

Jo and Ellaine’s beautifully intimate wedding took place at iconic Auckland mansion Highwic House, a striking venue for lovers of historical architecture and gardens.
The Gothic Victorian site was perfectly fitting for these two teachers, with Ellaine being a history teacher and both loving the idea of being wed outdoors at a historical setting.

Extensive Victorian-styled grounds, gardens and a romantic ‘Lovers Walk’ set the historic tone, contrasting beautifully with modern styling by Gemma at P.S I Love You Events, who Ellaine thanks for bringing their ideas together perfectly. Impressive clear marquees and modern signage by Harlan Creative were juxtaposed with white bentwood chairs, vintage furniture, and the Little Moments Caravan bar, with romantic floral styling throughout by the Floral Stylist Co, who we are excited to have joining us as our Wild Hearts Auckland Florist on June 16th.

Their day was beautifully captured by Cameron from Chasewild, incredible destination wedding photographers who will also be joining us in Auckland. Are you coming to run wild with us in Auckland? Tickets are available now from our website.

“A sky full of stars and he was staring at her.”- Atticus

How did you meet and how long have you been together?
We met in December 2013 at Freeman and Grey bar in Ponsonby. We are both teachers so found common ground easily.
How would you describe each other?
Joe would describe Ellaine as beautiful, kind, empathetic and has a strong sense of social justice.
Ellaine would describe Joe as sensible, responsible, really loving and a supportive partner.

Tell us a little bit about the proposal and your engagement?
We were taking some time off work to embark on our OE to London. We planned a going away party where Joe surprised everybody and with a proposal in front of everyone attending (and those watching through live-stream). Luckily Ellaine gave the two thumbs up! Our engagement was spent mostly overseas where we travelled and experienced what Europe had to offer, teaching during the week and travelling over the weekends.

Tell us about your wedding style. What influenced your planning for the day?
We really wanted an outdoor wedding – Ellaine always loved the idea of a garden wedding. Joe, as a history teacher liked the idea of having the event at a historical setting. Highwic ticked all the boxes – especially as we could have the ceremony and reception at one place. We also wanted a relaxed feeling and loved the idea of contrast – formal seating with informal dining (food truck) and the contrast between the historic setting and the modern, urban area of Newmarket.

What was your favourite detail from the day?
We loved the styling of the whole thing. We had some specific ideas of what we wanted but Gemma from PS. I Love You Events was able to stick all our ideas together. Our flowers and table settings were beautiful.

What was your favourite moment of the day?
Apart from the obvious marriage ceremony, the dance floor really went nuts.

What does marriage mean to you?
We are both influenced by the amazing marriages of our parents. We saw loyalty, trust and
love growing up and that’s what we want to create for a family of our own.

Who were your stand out vendors?
Cameron, our photographer from Chasewild, The Little Yellow Food Truck, Little Moments Caravan Bar, Antonia Prebble, our celebrant, The Floral Stylist, Avya Grace for our pre-reception music, and Lee Gray for our reception music.
Most of all, PS. I Love You Events for making the day possible and taking away so much of the styling stress.

Any advice for other couples planning a wedding?
Learn to delegate – people are always ready and willing to help. Trust in them.