Scenic Waterfront Wedding in the Bay of Islands

Scenic Waterfront Wedding in the Bay of Islands

Ashleigh and Mitch celebrated their love at The Duke of Marlborough, surrounded by their closest friends and family. Their day was filled with joy, laughter, and heartfelt moments, with photos capturing the couple beaming as they fully embraced every part of their special day.

Ashleigh looked stunning in Washington by Forget Me Knot, an elegant Italian satin fit-and-flare gown featuring a scoop neckline and a beautifully structured, boned bodice. She made the gown uniquely hers by lowering the back and adding buttons that extended all the way to the hem, creating the dress of her dreams.

We hope you enjoy scrolling through their beautiful day as much as we loved being a part of it.


Scenic Waterfront Wedding in the Bay of Islands
Scenic Waterfront Wedding in the Bay of Islands
Scenic Waterfront Wedding in the Bay of Islands
Scenic Waterfront Wedding in the Bay of Islands
Scenic Waterfront Wedding in the Bay of Islands

What was it that made this particular wedding dress catch your eye and fall in love?

I always wanted a very simple yet elegant dress. I didn’t have a particular style, but once I described what I was looking for, the girls absolutely nailed the selection. I was adamant about another dress from the website and loved it when I tried it on. The dress I chose was the second dress I tried on, and I fell in love even more! I had it slightly altered. I lowered the back and had buttons down the length of my train.

Tell us about your search for the dress and the experience at Astra Bridal.

It was honestly the best experience. The girls there were so welcoming and made the entire process stress free. They were so easy to communicate with as well, and made sure my dress arrived with plenty of time to spare!

Scenic Waterfront Wedding in the Bay of Islands
Scenic Waterfront Wedding in the Bay of Islands
Scenic Waterfront Wedding in the Bay of Islands

Tell us your story, how you both met, and the proposal.

We met through mutual friends at a local bar in Whangarei. We’ve been best friends ever since. Mitch proposed in Russell during a weekend away, on a small private beach near our Airbnb.


Scenic Waterfront Wedding in the Bay of Islands
Scenic Waterfront Wedding in the Bay of Islands
Scenic Waterfront Wedding in the Bay of Islands
Scenic Waterfront Wedding in the Bay of Islands

What was your favourite part of the day?

It’s hard to choose. There were so many amazing moments. One of my favourites was our first look. It helped calm our nerves to have a special moment just the two of us.

Scenic Waterfront Wedding in the Bay of Islands
Scenic Waterfront Wedding in the Bay of Islands
Scenic Waterfront Wedding in the Bay of Islands

Tell us about your wedding day as a whole.

Everything was perfect. From the weather to the venue, food, getting ready with my girls, flowers, cake, our makeup and hair, the lead up to the wedding, the speeches, and everything in between. It seemed to run seamlessly, and I think that was a combination of Mitch and I being so relaxed and the help of everybody around us.

Scenic Waterfront Wedding in the Bay of Islands

Finally, what is your biggest piece of advice for brides to be?

Enjoy every moment. The entire day flies by. Try and have a few moments with just yourself and your hubby as well. It’s such a busy day and it was so special to have some time to ourselves. And don’t stress the small stuff – no one remembers the minor details haha :)

Scenic Waterfront Wedding in the Bay of Islands
Scenic Waterfront Wedding in the Bay of Islands