Waikato Wedding ~ The Glasshouse at Block 295, Raglan

I met Hayden and Maddy when they came to view The Glasshouse at Block 295 as a potential setting for their intimate wedding. When you know, you know. We hit it off immediately, and everything they were saying about their dream day resonated with me; only their closest people, pizza for lunch and spectacular views. I was so excited when they popped the question. Of course I said yes!

I spend a lot of time at The Glasshouse in Raglan, mowing, weeding, cleaning glass and keeping an eye on the cows. It's my happy place, and with those views it's unsurprising that many people dream of getting married there. When Hayden and Maddy came to visit, I couldn't help myself but to mention that if they were still looking for a photographer, I would love to be considered. I don't tell everyone I meet there that I do wedding photos; I like to hear about their plans, and get to know them a bit. And if I feel like we have some common values then I sheepishly pull out my business card.

When the day finally arrived (after a few cyclone scares), it was perfect. Hayden and Maddy were clear from the start that, for them, it wasn't about all the frills and fancy decor. The most important thing to them was to be surrounded by their nearest and dearest in an incredible setting. I think we nailed the brief. We laughed, we cried - a lot! - and we ate delicious pizza by Piacè. The florals by So Floral were a superb feature and thanks to Ciara from The White Wedding Club, everything still looked flawless - if you're planning a wedding, she needs to be there!

After the ceremony and lunch, we heard some of the most heartwarming speeches I've ever encountered, no eye was dry, and Hayden and Maddy announced their pregnancy! It was a beautiful moment to capture for them. Later on, we snuck out to the paddocks nearby (with permission of course) and even though it was blustery and cold, I love the photos we made together. What an epic spot!

I'm so glad that Hayden and Maddy were my first Glasshouse wedding. I really felt like one of the family. It was a special day in a place that is dear to my heart, and I am so excited to share these images.

Location: Raglan, Waikato Wedding size: 25 guests Photography: 4 hours