Real Wedding: A Black & White Party Vibe for Chris & Kate
A heartfelt, relaxed celebration with two daughters, a velvet couch, and the ultimate dance party.
From their very first visit, Chris and Kate knew Waipuna Estate offered something special. With stunning views, flexible indoor and outdoor ceremony options, and photo opportunities around every corner, they could already picture their day unfolding. “We knew this was the top of our list,” they shared. “Sarah and her team were so warm and welcoming—it just felt right.”
What sealed the deal for them was Waipuna’s full-package offering: ceremony, reception, and accommodation all in one place. Being able to stay onsite the night before and the night of the wedding was a game-changer. It removed the stress of logistics and allowed them to fully settle in, relax, and enjoy every moment.
Their original vision was to elope and celebrate later with friends and family—but they also wanted Chris’ daughters, Maddi and Amelia, to be part of the day. So, they decided to go all in: a mid-sized wedding with a big party feel. The result? A day that was completely theirs—joyful, inclusive, and full of life.
They chose to do a first look—first as a couple, then with the girls—which set a beautiful, calm tone for the day. From there, the flow of events unfolded effortlessly: a ceremony on the lawn, followed by cocktails and grazing on the terrace, dinner and speeches inside, and a full-blown dance party with live music from Assembly Required back out on the terrace. The interconnected spaces at Waipuna made it all feel natural and seamless, giving guests room to move, mingle, and stay close to the celebration.
Katrin Lilla Nel designed showstopping florals for the day, creating a vibrant, layered look inspired simply by a photo of Kate’s dress. “I didn’t have a particular vision,” she said, “but Katrin absolutely nailed it—from the bouquets to the huge arrangements at the ceremony.”
While the planning was smooth, there was one surprise in the final week: their original celebrant had to pull out. Enter Liv Webber, who stepped in with less than a week’s notice. “On the day, it felt like we’d known her forever. She brought so much warmth and calm, and made our ceremony perfect.”
The couple’s style leaned into a modern black and white palette, letting the florals bring the colour. The cocktail-style reception featured a mix of seating options to keep things relaxed, and instead of a traditional head table, they opted for a statement black velvet couch for speeches. Supplied by The Little Hire Company, the couch was a beautiful focal point and a reflection of the couple’s thoughtful, non-traditional touches.
There were countless memorable moments: Maddi and Amelia each reading a poem during the ceremony, their mum Sally helping get them ready with Kate, and a peaceful first look that gave Chris and Kate time to take it all in before the day began. Later, Robin + Andie Photography captured stunning sunset portraits overlooking the hills—quiet, golden moments they’ll always treasure.
Guests were treated to an incredible feast by Smoke ‘n’ Barrel, perfectly in tune with the relaxed vibe of the day. The cake by The Sugar Room was a sweet showpiece, and Kate’s makeup by Stacey Banfield and hair by Olivia Gray (Room Four) brought her effortlessly elegant look together. She wore a beautiful gown from To Cherish, expertly altered by Jenny-Lea Designs, and Chris and the groomsmen looked sharp in suits from Farmers.
For couples currently planning, they offer this advice:
“Make sure to include time for just the two of you throughout the day. It helped us stay grounded and present. And if you can stay at the venue—do it! It felt like a mini holiday. Breakfast with our bridal party the next morning was the perfect way to wrap it up.”
If you're dreaming of a wedding that feels like an unforgettable celebration from start to finish, get in touch with us—we’d love to help bring your vision to life at Waipuna Estate.