Spring is in the air

Who: Anna Rassie and Mark Woods
When: September 12, 2009
Where: The couple chose heritage-listed Rippon Lea Estate as the site of their nuptials. Around half their guests came across the Tasman from Anna’s hometown, Auckland, to enjoy a long weekend of celebrations.
Gown: Anna wore an elegant, chic gown by Karen Willis Holmes, beautifully set off by her bridesmaids dressed in grey.
Rings: Both rings came from Tiffany’s: a plain platinum band for Mark and a channel-set diamond band for Anna.
Invitations: In keeping with the relaxed ambience of the day itself, the invitations were simple and white, with three layers needed to communicate all the necessary information for a destination wedding.
Flowers: Arranged by Brett Currell, white flowers, hanging lanterns and tea light candles provided soft lighting in the evening.
Reception: The cocktail party kicked off with mango daiquiris around the pool, and later featured canapés and bowl food. Wedding co-ordinator Sara Sabey of Chameleon Events took care of all the behind-the-scenes organising of suppliers, enabling the couple to relax and enjoy the day.
Entertainment: A string quartet from Alto Productions set the mood during the ceremony, followed by a DJ from Top Dog Entertainment for the evening.
Cake: Cioccolata Bella created a delicious, two-tiered white and dark chocolate ganache.
Photography: “Ken was an absolute pleasure to deal with throughout the process,” says Anna. “Nothing was too much trouble. It was incredibly windy on the day and hot, too, but Ken had cold drinks on hand to refresh us. He was tireless in taking shots until late in the evening, meaning we have many memories from our reception, which a lot of couples miss out on. Having both Ken and his assistant Hang meant we captured both sides getting ready and there was time to take shots of the bridesmaids and groomsmen separately as well as us all together.”
Favourite memories: Anna’s most memorable moment came from the couple’s unusual entrance. “My dad passed away last year,” she says, “and I didn’t want to walk the aisle without him. Instead, we had the guests arranged in a semi-circle on the lawn and Mark and I walked through the house and down the stairs together.”