Kezia and Tamati vowed forever surrounded by their friends and family, celebrating their love, culture, and relationship. Their wedding day was filled with love, happiness, and unforgettable moments, with these photos capturing a glimpse into the special day they shared.
Kezia wowed in Athlone Lane by Sottero & Midgley, a stunning lace fit and flare gown adorned with intricate 3D lace motifs, delicate beading, and dotted glitter tulle. The gown features a plunging sweetheart neckline, exposed beaded boning details, and a showstopping illusion lace train. She completed her bridal look with our cathedral length cut edge veil, a timeless accessory that beautifully complemented her gown and added an elegant finishing touch.
Keep scrolling for a magical glimpse into their unforgettable day!
What was it that made this particular wedding dress catch your eye and fall in love?
I chose my gown because it had the perfect amount of detail. There was glitter, beading, lace, sequins, 3D flowers, everything! Yet, even though there was so much included, it didn’t look like too much; everything coordinated so beautifully. It was also a bonus that the structure of the dress was extremely flattering.
Tell us about your search for the dress and the experience at Astra Bridal.
When it came to searching for my dress, I had a very clear vision of what I wanted. I have always liked sparkle, sequins, big dresses, and, unfortunately, had really struggled to find something that included everything I wanted. Time was running out, and my friend suggested I go to Astra Bridal. I went in during their sale and Sip & See night and met Ilyese. I told her what I wanted, and she told me to come back and that she would love the challenge of helping me.
I came back by myself, and she chose a range of dresses. I told her I wanted a princess dress, and she begged me to try on some of the fitted dresses she had. I agreed and slowly realised that everything I wanted wasn’t necessarily the style for me.
One of the final dresses she pulled out, she said, was the dress for me and that I had to try it. I was sceptical, given it was a fitted dress, but agreed that I would try it on for her. She was right.
Tell us your story, how you both met, and the proposal.
Tamati and I met in high school. For the first few years, we strongly disliked each other because I was the teacher’s pet and he was the naughty kid. His best friend, who I grew up with, managed to convince us to hang out together, and those feelings quickly changed. Tamati and I began dating at 16 and have since had the privilege of growing up together.
Fast forward almost six years, and Tamati proposed to me at Kohimarama Beach. I was very shocked, as it was pitch black outside, we were in our most casual outfits, and he had kept his cool the entire dinner we were at. We decided to have a short engagement, so wedding planning was in full swing one month after our engagement, and we got to work towards the most beautiful day ever!
What was your favourite part of the day?
There were so many cherishable moments from our day, but my favourite was meeting at the altar. We both had the cheesiest grins as I was walking up, no tears, just pure joy, which was so true to our style. Following that, we had the most perfect ceremony, and I will never forget it.
Tell us about your wedding day as a whole.
Our wedding day was beautiful. It was predicted to be pouring with rain all day; however, it only rained once we were inside during our reception! My four bridesmaids and I woke up and had the most chill morning getting ready together. After the photos, I was escorted to the ceremony venue, where we had about 230 people fill the beautiful church we used.
We had different elements of our cultures tied into the day, with Māori elements on the windows and on stage, and leis given during the ceremony by my Samoan aunties. We then went off for photos at the Wintergardens and museum, and not long after, arrived at the reception.
The reception was pure fun, with the best MCs, a choreographed first dance, waiata, and a Samoan dance at the end. We were so blessed to have the best experience!
Finally, what is your biggest piece of advice for brides to be?
Weddings are stressful, but no matter what, you get it done. The most important thing is to focus on you and your spouse having the best time. Nothing else matters! You will get nice photos, your guests will enjoy themselves, and most importantly, you will look amazing.
Remember, it is only one day when everyone can gather and celebrate your love, so make the most of it!
