Magan and Jayden said "I Do" surrounded by friends and family at the breathtaking Black Barn at Lake Tarawera. The photos from their special day capture the happy couple beaming with smiles and love as they celebrated together.
Magan dazzled in Summer by Maggie Sottero, a soft crepe fit and flare gown featuring an asymmetrically pleated bodice back and a sultry thigh high split. Elegant off the shoulder sleeves and delicate covered buttons add timeless details that complete this stunning look. She finished her bridal look with our cut edge pearl veil, perfectly complementing her classic gown.
We hope you enjoy browsing the highlights of their beautiful day and getting a glimpse into Magan’s journey with Astra Bridal as she found her dream dress.
What was it that made this particular wedding dress catch your eye and fall in love?
I chose my dress for its simplicity, elegance, and because it truly felt like me. I also picked something I knew my husband-to-be would love, and sure enough, he did! He said it was exactly what he would have chosen for me: classic, understated, and perfectly suited to who I am. I especially loved the straight neckline at the front and the stunning button detail down the back. The train wasn’t too long, and the dress flowed beautifully.
Tell us about your search for the dress and the experience at Astra Bridal.
I visited three different bridal stores in search of my dream dress. The first two experiences were lovely, but I still felt unsure, like I hadn’t quite found the one. It was starting to feel a little difficult until I walked into Astra. From the moment we arrived, everything just felt right. As my mum and I walked up the steps and opened the door, there it was, my Summer dress on display, staring right at me from a mannequin. I had been admiring it online, and seeing it in person was just as beautiful as I’d imagined.
Khym at Astra was so kind and supportive, making the whole experience feel effortless and special. I tried on about 12 dresses that day, wanting to be absolutely sure. But no matter what I tried, I kept coming back to Summer. When I finally tried her on, I just knew. She was everything I had been searching for: simple, elegant, and comfortable.
What made it even more special was the atmosphere. As I stood there in my dress, the song You Are the Reason by Leona Lewis and Calum Scott came on. It is one of my mum’s favourites and a song that reminds me deeply of my Oma. Mum and I looked at each other and shared a quiet, emotional moment. It was one of those memories I will always carry with me.
What was your favourite part of the day?
There were so many favourite moments from our special day: the heartfelt ceremony, the beautiful speeches, our fun ‘Layla’ dance, the incredible food (seriously, so good!), and our romantic sunset shoot where we soaked in every bit of that breathtaking view. But above all, the moment that meant the most was walking down the hill to our ceremony, with my dad by my side, and seeing my husband-to-be waiting for me. That moment made everything worth it.
Tell us about your wedding day as a whole.
Our wedding day was truly everything we had dreamed of. The morning began with such joy and excitement as I got ready alongside the girls and our mums. There was a mix of nerves and happiness, but above all, an overwhelming sense of gratitude that the day we had been waiting for was finally here.
The weather couldn’t have been more perfect, and from the moment things began, everything just seemed to fall into place. From the beautiful flowers to my dream wedding car, and having my best friends beside me while saying “I do” to the man who means everything to me, it was truly something special.
One particularly memorable moment from our reception was the gifting of a pounamu to my husband by one of his groomsmen. It was deeply touching and added a beautiful layer of meaning to our day. It’s something we will always treasure.
It was a day full of love, laughter, and connection, shared with the people who mean the most to us. A celebration that we will carry in our hearts forever.
Finally, what is your biggest piece of advice for brides to be?
Stay true to yourself and make choices that reflect what you and your partner genuinely love. Your wedding day is a celebration of your unique connection, and at the heart of it all is the love you share. As long as the day feels meaningful to both of you, that is all that truly matters.
