Craig & Ashley

Kumeu Valley Estate Wedding | Photographed by Amber and Cheryl

A night wedding ceremony is an ambitious vision. In New Zealand an outdoor wedding is a gamble at the best of times, let alone at dusk in autumn, but the bigger the risk – the bigger the reward.

Ashley and Craig fell in love with the forest area at Kumeu Valley Estate from the first time they visited, and their enthusiasm was contagious. Annette and her Kumeu Valley team went all out to make this an amazing experience for the guests (hello cozy blankets and mulled wine!) and they just happened to hire a huge light geek as their photographer 😉

It was incredible just to watch the guests faces as they came outside and saw the ceremony spot all lit up. It was one big series of gasps and people saying “wooooooah”.

We were treated to the perfect weather. The wind dropped. The rain was non-existent for the whole week leading up to the day, and their photos before the ceremony were warm and autumnal – perfectly complimenting their warm glowy ceremony.

Ashley and Craig were lucky enough to have most of their guest list able to join them – with one notable exception. One of Ashley’s best friends wasn’t able to be there in person, but he absolutely made his presence felt throughout the day. A life size (or slightly larger than life size!) cutout was sent to take his place in the bridal party photos and a virtual speech meant that Fredy was very much a part of their day.

Craig and Ashley, thank you so much for trusting us to capture your day and letting me run with your amazing vision.

Wedding Vendor Shoutout
Ceremony and reception venue: Kumeu Valley Estate
Auckland Wedding Photographer: Perspectives Photo + Cinema
Wedding Celebrant: Laura Giddey
Wedding DJ: Mike Steffens
Hair and Makeup: The Peach Club

And finally – I just wanted to share some thoughts from Ashley herself.
“I was so overwhelmed with how beautiful it was that I actually lost feeling in my hands by the time I reached Craig! Best day of my life and the most beautiful ceremony. I still can’t believe how well it turned out”.

You really couldn’t ask for more for your wedding day.