This day was filled with so many levels of awesomeness. Firstly, I photographed a wedding full of love. Secondly, that wedding was a SURPRISE wedding! Thirdly, that surprise wedding was 1920's THEMED! Fourthly, that surprise 1920's themed wedding was based around a gorgeous family who were all dressed up to the nines.
Daryl and Karen invited lots of friends and family to a 1920's "joint 40th birthday party" at the Savoy in Dunedin. What most of those friends and family didn't know, was that earlier that day, Daryl and Karen professed their love for each other in an intimate wedding ceremony with only a handful of special guests. And I was lucky enough to be one of them! You are very privileged to get a glimpse into this incredible day, where we relived the roaring twenties... an era that was seriously awesome...
Daryl and Karen invited lots of friends and family to a 1920's "joint 40th birthday party" at the Savoy in Dunedin. What most of those friends and family didn't know, was that earlier that day, Daryl and Karen professed their love for each other in an intimate wedding ceremony with only a handful of special guests. And I was lucky enough to be one of them! You are very privileged to get a glimpse into this incredible day, where we relived the roaring twenties... an era that was seriously awesome...
The fun began getting everyone ready out at Daryl and Karen's house... a house with million dollar views over Brighton Beach. Unfortunately unrelenting rain meant the ceremony couldn't be on the beach as originally planned, but luckily they had a brilliant back-up plan!
The bride and groom nervously preparing for their big day...
The bride and groom nervously preparing for their big day...
Daryl polishes his shoes the way it should be done...
The two 20-month old twins, Matthew and Jessica, were such a delight... they even managed to stay dressed up, clean and happy ALL day! Such adorable little kids.
Reuben and Kate looked amazing in their authentic gears, and were super helpful, mature kids the whole day!
I loved the details of the 1920's... it made for an extremely fun wedding!
On the way to the ceremony, we stopped for a few photos of the wonderful bride and groom during a small break in the rain.
The ceremony, dinner and party were held at the Savoy - a characteristic venue which suited the theme so well. Kate and Reuben had the very important job of ring-bearing, and did well to hide them from everyone before the ceremony!
While the pouring rain was causing floods all over the country, we were tucked up beside a beautiful open fire, enjoying a very special day. Everybody in attendence, including the celebrant, was dressed in brilliant 1920's get-ups!
One of their talented friends crafted two amazing large oamaru stone carvings. This one was my favourite...a beautiful representation of their family. Isn't it amazing?!
I love this :)
Then, off to the Railway Station for some more photos of the lovely couple. They really wanted lots of black & white and sepia toned photos, to match in with their antique theme.
Then it was back to the Savoy for a delicious meal with the small number of guests who attended the wedding. The details at the dinner were fabulous... I can't resist showing you!
Later on, about 150 guests arrived for what they thought was the joint 40th! I was amazed at the dedication to dressing up as flappers and gansters - the costumes were incredible. When everyone had arrived, a close friend announced their surprise marriage, and the party was kicked off in style with live jazz music. The kids really rocked the dance-floor!
And finally, a very small selection of the guests photos to show you some amazing costumes...and also this wallpaper - I want it in my house! :)
Thank you soooo much Karen and Daryl! I had an incredible day photographing your wedding and party - you were both so great to work with. Thanks for letting me be a part of your amazing secret! There are just so many fun photos I could have blogged. All the best for your future together... xo
