Real Wedding: Penny + Jamie

Penny and Jamie were lucky enough to get married in beautiful Rarotonga. The wedding was held on Aitutaki Island which as you can see made for a stunning venue. The fabulous photography was by Bruce Gabites from Fine Photography, I absolutely love that black & white shot of the two of them walking through the palm trees! Stationery designed by Ruby & Willow and assembled by the Bride herself. And so many little thoughtful touches were added by Penny. She did a great job!



How did you meet?
We met 8 years ago. I was working part time in a surf shop while I was studying at University. Jamie came in one afternoon to buy something and ended up asking me out.
Tell us about your proposal:
It took place on a very stormy and blustery evening at Black Rock on Milford Beach.
Tell us about finding your wedding dress:
I didn’t really look around at too many dresses because I had a very specific idea in mind about the dress I wanted. I met with Faye Marmont of Saranne Fabrics to discuss my ideas and the result was my beautiful, hand made, one of a kind wedding dress.
What was the design inspiration for your wedding?
Jamie and both love to surf, love to spend our time at the beach and love the era of the 1950’s and 1960’s. These things are what make us who we are so we tried to incorporate them all in to our day. I think it worked – it ended up being a little bit like Frank Sinatra meets the Beach Boys.
Describe your wedding flowers:
The Bridesmaids and I carried posies of Frangipani and Gardenia. We also wore Frangipani in our hair. Jamie and the Groomsmen wore Gardenia button holes and both of our Mums wore Gardenia Wristbands. The table arrangements were Frangipani and Gardenia.
Describe your wedding cake:
We had a three tiered fruit cake (We chose fruit cake so it would last in the heat of the islands). The three tiers were covered in white fondant with white satin ribbon. Adorning the top and the sides of the cakes were beautiful hand made icing Frangipani flowers. My very nervous Mum and Dad bought the cakes over in the plane with them from Auckland. They arrived perfectly.
Favourite detail of the day:
Everyone had to catch a glass bottom boat to the island that we were getting married on. All of the female guests were given a white paper and bamboo parasol as they got off the boat to shade them from the hot day. (They also proved handy during a very brief sun shower).
What advise would you give out to someone planning their wedding?
The day absolutely flies so if you can stretch to the extra expense get the day filmed.
Were there any special traditions that you included?
I tied a small black and white wedding photo of both of our parents weddings around my boutique. Both couples have been married for over 40 years. I also carried an American Penny from the year of my birth which is meant to bring good luck and fortune.
Most memorable moment?
Having my brother marry us. And being surrounded by our closest family and friends.
What’s next for you as a couple?
Shortly after we got home from Rarotonga Jamie and I bought a house and 2 acres of land which is keeping is very busy.