Amy and Chris’s New Plymouth Wedding
Thank goodness for Tinder because today’s “real wedding” couple have found love and so much more! Just three months after both swiping right, Amy and Chris knew they were meant for each other and fell deeply in love. Chris made Amy search for her engagement ring (quite literally) by sending her on an enthralling scavenger hunt that ended in Chris getting on one knee and surprising his new Fiance. They celebrated their engagement amongst friends and family with a lively engagement party.
Their big day was hosted at Amy’s Grandparents’ farm in New Plymouth with 60 guests and a wedding budget of $7,000.00. January 2018 offered some warmer weather and the option of having a beautiful summer backyard wedding.
The Ceremony was a little stressful for Amy as it had rained all night and then showered throughout the day but as soon as she saw Chris waiting for her, all the stress lifted and she knew the day would be just perfect. A special feature during the ceremony was their two daughters singing true colors (from Trolls) while Amy and Chris were getting their hands cast in plaster.
They were fortunate enough to use her Granddad’s shed for the Reception so everyone was sheltered from the rain whilst they enjoy the wedding celebration. Amy and chris had three family members on the barbeque, cooking up some delicious food, whilst family and friends were taking group photos with the newlyweds.
It’s difficult for Amy to choose a specific moment of the day, besides seeing Chris, that was her favourite. It was honestly rewarding for her to see that a year of hard work and planning came together so beautifully for her family, friends and themselves to enjoy.
Amy and Chris chose to have a backyard wedding because it fit their style, they don’t do fancy ballrooms and over the top table decor. She says the best thing about having a backyard wedding is the freedom to do things the way they wanted. They did not need to worry about vendors botching things up. They were fortunate enough to have access to the perfect backyard, Amy’s Grandparents’ farm, for free! Saving on the venue, Amy was able to splurge on her wedding dress.
The biggest challenge of this backyard wedding was the weather. Amy’s Granddad handmade a beautiful archway which Amy and Chris planned on using outside on the lawn for the ceremony. Mother nature had other plans though, so family and friends quickly shuffled seating in the shed, where the reception was set up, to allow them to exchange vows undercover and have enough room for guests to walk through.
Amy is most proud of how much her whole family chipped in and helped not just on the day, but the entire year leading up to it. From making the archway which her grandad did by hand, to digging the garden, to planting the plants, weeding, to mowing the lawns. Everything you could think of and more! Without their family’s help their wedding day wouldn’t have happened so to them, she is thankful and proud
Amy’s advice for couples considering having a backyard wedding is to stay true to who you are. Remember that this is a special day between two special people and you shouldn’t get too caught up in the stress of planning. Stop, take a deep breathe and remind each other of the love you share and the reason for the big day!
Here are some finer details from Amy and Chris’ special day
Brides dress was from Churchwood Bridal in New Plymouth, Grooms suit is from Hallenstines
Hair by Kel Donald, makeup by Anna Jane Make Up Artist
Amazing photography by Leith Robinson Photography
Flowers by Wedding Blooms
All the centerpieces were handmade by Amy and Chris
The wedding cake was made by a family member
