The Kiwi Wedding Podcast

💜 Join The Kiwi Wedding Podcast Community! 💜   I'm so excited to have launched our brand new Facebook group. A supportive space where engaged couples and wedding professionals can connect, ask questions, share advice, and celebrate weddings in Aotearoa. Whether you're planning your wedding or you're part of the wedding industry, we'd love to have you! Join via the link below.   Join the Facebook Community.   This week, I'm joined by bride Georgie, who shares the story of her beautiful wedding at Glendhu Station in Wānaka.   We chat about:💜 Meeting on a dance floor, breaking up, and finding their way back to each other 💜 Planning a colourful wedding that truly reflected them as a couple 💜 Wedding dress shopping in Sydney and overcoming dress regret 💜 The emotional experience of planning a wedding after losing her dad 💜 Choosing vendors who made the day completely stress-free 💜 Announcing their surprise pregnancy during the wedding reception 💜 Honest conversations around what they spent on their wedding 💜 Why hiring a wedding coordinator was one of the best decisions they made 💜 Avoiding comparison on social media and trusting your own vision 💜 Georgie's biggest pieces of advice for engaged couples   …and so much more!   Vendors: Venue: @glendhustation Coordinator: @somethingborrowedeventsnz Catering: @aspiringcatering Florals: @flore.studios Wedding Dress: @blanchebridal Bridesmaids Dresses: @billy_j_bridal Photographer: @honeylens.weddings Videographer: @harrisonslatterymedia Content Creation: @nosyparker__ Glassware: @majorandminorhire Band: @la.social Makeup: @shannongalemakeup Hair: @ingrid.hairmakeup Cake: Family Friend   If you've enjoyed this episode, I'd love it if you could leave a rating or review and share it with someone who's currently planning a wedding. It really helps more couples discover the podcast.   As always, if you're looking for a wedding photographer who captures timeless, joy-filled images, I'd love to hear from you. You can find me at lydiarachel.com or on Instagram @lydiarachelphoto.   Thanks for listening, and I'll see you next Tuesday for another episode of The Kiwi Wedding Podcast!   Sign up for ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠THE LOVE LETTER BY LYDIA RACHEL⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, a fortnightly note from me with wedding inspiration, podcast highlights, real weddings I’m capturing, and a few things I’ve been loving.    Follow ⁠⁠⁠@thekiwiweddingpodcast⁠⁠⁠ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I’m joined by wedding photographer Ash Muir, who shares the story of her incredibly stylish and joy-filled wedding day at Longfords Lake Ōkāreka.   After spending years photographing weddings herself, Ash opens up about the pressure of planning your own wedding when you work in the industry, staying true to your style instead of trends, and creating a day that genuinely felt like them.   Sign up for ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠THE LOVE LETTER BY LYDIA RACHEL⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, a fortnightly note from me with wedding inspiration, podcast highlights, real weddings I’m capturing, and a few things I’ve been loving.    We chat about: 💜 The reality of planning a wedding when you’ve seen hundreds of other weddings 💜 Designing a wedding inspired by their own home and personal style 💜 Her custom Brooke Tyson dress and iconic green second outfit 💜 What’s actually worth spending money on vs where they saved 💜 Why she thinks couples need to stop trying to make their wedding “timeless” 💜 Why coordinators are completely underrated 💜 The challenge of not changing your mind every weekend when you work in weddings 💜 The pressure of people expecting your wedding to be “amazing” when you’re a wedding photographer 💜 How they turned the entire day into one big party with alfresco dining, cocktails, and an afterparty until 6am 💜 The moments from the day that mattered far more than aesthetics   ...and so much more!   Let me know what you think of this episode!   Follow Ash here: @ashmuirphoto   If you’d like to see more from this wedding, check out the photos over on Instagram and make sure you’re following ⁠⁠⁠@thekiwiweddingpodcast⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠@lydiarachelphoto⁠⁠⁠ for more real weddings and inspiration.   Vendors: Photographer: @kerynsweeneyphotographer Videographer: @evoquefilms___ Dress + Green Veil: @brooketysonritual Venue & Coordination: @longfordsnz Styling: @withsophie__ Makeup: @gabriellehoughtonn @gabriellehoughtonmakeup Hair: @dededaph Catering: @creameatery Cake: @chrissycakes Bread & Butter Installation: @rosesdiningtable Florals: @asterandbloom Linen/Draping: @tble__linen__hire Cocktails: @mrpicklesnz served by @blumedarling DJ: @epicsaxguynz Veil + Jewellery: @lovejamesstore Marquee + Glassware: @andysmarquee_and_partyhire Plates: @royallaboratorie Engagement Ring: @cocoflorencenz Second Dress: @aclerSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I’m joined by Caitlin, who shares the story of her beautiful marquee wedding at La Maison in Auckland. After 11 years together, a surprise proposal, and a venue change just 12 months before the big day, Caitlin and Danny created a wedding that was thoughtful, personal, and completely true to them.   Sign up for ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠THE LOVE LETTER BY LYDIA RACHEL⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, a fortnightly note from me with wedding inspiration, podcast highlights, real weddings I’m capturing, and a few things I’ve been loving.    We chat about: 💜 How a lecture theatre crush turned into a wedding day 14 years later 💜 Why guest experience was one of their biggest priorities when planning 💜 Creating a wedding timeline that allowed them to spend more time with their guests 💜 The importance of good service, great food, plenty of drinks, and an epic dance floor 💜 Planning a marquee wedding and bringing a touch of Europe to New Zealand 💜 Wedding dress shopping, finding the perfect gown, and why Caitlin wishes she'd packed a second dress 💜 Why uneven bridal party numbers don't matter 💜 Navigating a tricky guest list and making decisions around children at the wedding 💜 The unique details that made their day unforgettable, including a surprise ring bearer, champagne sabrage, welcome shots, and late-night cheeseburgers 💜 Why a multi-day wedding celebration was one of the best decisions they made 💜 Managing a wedding budget realistically and avoiding unnecessary stress 💜 The benefits of a longer engagement and enjoying the fiancé season 💜 Planning a European honeymoon and avoiding the post-wedding blues 💜 Caitlin's best advice for couples currently planning their wedding   ...and so much more!   Let me know what you think of this episode!   If you’d like to see more from this wedding, check out the photos over on Instagram and make sure you’re following ⁠⁠⁠@thekiwiweddingpodcast⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠@lydiarachelphoto⁠⁠⁠ for more real weddings and inspiration.   Vendors: Photographer: @idophotographynz Venue: @la.maison.clevedon Videography: @flatrocfilms Dress: @heracouture Makeup: @katesolleymakeup Hair: @boutiquebride  Groom's Suit: @t.beggtailoring Bridesmaids: @becandbridge Groomsmen: @barkersclothing  Rings: @aureafinejewellery Flowers: @graceandflora.nz Marquee & Furniture: @flockevents and @willowlane_events Stationery: @paperdarlingnz Coordinator: @soulboundnz Celebrant: @marriedbygeorgiamay    Episode mentioned with link to budgeting spreadsheet: Episode 37 with Bride Hannah DuderSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I’m joined by Jasmin, who shares the story of her tipi marquee wedding on her parents’ property in Matakana, right between the Auckland floods and Cyclone Gabrielle.   Sign up for ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠THE LOVE LETTER BY LYDIA RACHEL⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, a fortnightly note from me with wedding inspiration, podcast highlights, real weddings I’m capturing, and a few things I’ve been loving.    We chat about:  💜 How Jasmin and Matt met at work and the gymnastics connection that started it all 💜 Their off-grid Kaikōura proposal with river crossings, no reception, and a very special love bubble 💜 Planning a tipi marquee wedding on her parents’ Matakana property 💜 Creating a romantic, muted colour palette that accidentally connected back to her grandmother’s wedding 💜 Why guest experience was one of Jasmin’s biggest priorities 💜 Planning an outdoor wedding right between the Auckland floods and Cyclone Gabrielle 💜 What happened when their ceremony space was underwater and the marquee site turned to mud 💜 The last-minute pivots, community help, and weather plans that helped save the day 💜 Why having a day-of coordinator made such a huge difference 💜 The reality of budgeting for a marquee wedding and the extra costs that can come with weather contingencies 💜 Wedding content overwhelm and trying not to compare your day to everything you see online 💜 Ending the night with nostalgic music on the dance floor   …and so much more!    Let me know what you think of this episode!   Follow Jasmin and the With Love Weddings and Events team at @withlove.weddingsandevents   If you’d like to see more from this wedding, check out the photos over on Instagram and make sure you’re following ⁠⁠⁠@thekiwiweddingpodcast⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠@lydiarachelphoto⁠⁠⁠ for more real weddings and inspiration.   Vendors: Tipi: @gypsyandcoevents Photography/Videography: @gregcampbell.photo Day of Coordination: @withlove.weddingsandevents Florals: @rubylou.floraldesign Hair: @messybun_nz Makeup: @danifroudemakeup Lighting: @stylelightingco  Furniture Hire: @flockevents Tableware Hire: @carltonmatakana Decor Hire: @theprettypropshop  Brides Dress: @jessicacouture.akl Celebrant: @aaronbloomfieldcelebrantSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I’m joined by Emma, who shares the story of her intimate Queenstown elopement, and why it was the perfect choice for their love story.   We chat about:  💜A beach proposal with a very excited dog and a ring box nearly lost in the sand 💜 Planning a wedding from Adelaide and navigating big decisions from afar 💜 Feeling overwhelmed by endless inspiration and how they found clarity 💜 Exploring multiple wedding ideas before choosing a Queenstown elopement 💜 Why an all-inclusive elopement package made the whole process easier 💜 Letting go of people pleasing and focusing on what actually mattered 💜 Keeping their guest list to just 13 people and making it meaningful 💜 Dress regret, comfort, and what she would do differently 💜 Helicopter photos on the Remarkables and creating a truly unique experience 💜 Choosing a relaxed dinner party over a traditional reception 💜 Their full budget breakdown and keeping the day under 20K 💜 Post-wedding blues and the reality of a honeymoon that didn’t go to plan   …and so much more!    Let me know what you think of this episode!   If you’d like to see more from this wedding, check out the photos over on Instagram and make sure you’re following ⁠⁠⁠@thekiwiweddingpodcast⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠@lydiarachelphoto⁠⁠⁠ for more real weddings and inspiration.   Vendors: Suit: @ignitionformen Dress: @madilanebridal @luvbridal Photographer: @carlamitchellphotography Elopement Planner: @queenstownelopementsnz Celebrant: @tess.kelly_celebrant   Sign up for ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠THE LOVE LETTER BY LYDIA RACHEL⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, a fortnightly note from me with wedding inspiration, podcast highlights, real weddings I’m capturing, and a few things I’ve been loving. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I’m joined by Amelia, who shares the story of her and Jack’s incredible marquee wedding in Mangawhai, set on private property with nearly 200 guests, beautiful styling, and a day that didn’t exactly go to plan but ended up being even better because of it.   We chat about:  💜 How they met and why you shouldn’t write off a bad first date 💜 A dreamy Fiji proposal, featuring a stray cat named Chris 💜 Planning a marquee wedding from scratch on private property 💜 What it’s really like hosting a wedding with nearly 200 guests 💜 Why great food, drinks, and guest experience were top priorities 💜 The reality of things not going to plan, rain, humidity, and last minute changes 💜 Pivoting the ceremony on the day and embracing the chaos 💜 Dress shopping with Hera Couture and finding something that actually fits and flatters 💜 The magic of having all your favourite people in one place 💜 Letting go of the small details and focusing on what actually matters   …and so much more!   Follow Amelia (Melie): @melies_kitchen   Let me know what you think of this episode!   If you’d like to see more from this wedding, check out the photos over on Instagram and make sure you’re following ⁠⁠⁠@thekiwiweddingpodcast⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠@lydiarachelphoto⁠⁠⁠ for more real weddings and inspiration.   Vendors: Photographer: @kerynsweeneyphotographer On the Day Coordinator: @sophpol Dress: @heracouture Second Dress: @lovejamesstore & @re_______studio Suit: @workingstylenz Flowers: @handsinthedirt_ Food: @sourcekitchennz Hire & Marquee: @lucyseventhire Drinks: @drinkalba @moabeer & @eurovintage_nz Makeup: @rae_makeup Hair: @penton.andco  Cake: @mor__bakery Stationery: @broganscottstudio Rings: @thevillagegoldsmith Venue: Private Property Celebrant: @nzcelebrant   Get tickets to ⁠That’s Amore⁠ this Thursday (23 April 2026) in Papamoa. See you there!   Sign up for ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠THE LOVE LETTER BY LYDIA RACHEL⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, a fortnightly note from me with wedding inspiration, podcast highlights, real weddings I’m capturing, and a few things I’ve been loving. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I’ve teamed up with Tauranga Weddings to give away a double pass to their brand new Italian-inspired event, That’s Amore. Head to @thekiwiweddingpodcast on Instagram to enter, and you can find tickets and all the details here. This week, I’m joined by Paige to chat about her stunning McCallum Residence wedding, and the whirlwind journey from almost eloping in Italy to planning a full wedding in just a few months. We chat about:  💜 Almost eloping overseas and the moment everything changed 💜 Planning a wedding in just four and a half months (and why it actually worked) 💜 Choosing The McCallum Residence and creating a full weekend experience 💜 Budget expectations and the reality of investing in a full weekend wedding 💜 Guest experience vs what actually matters on the day 💜 The value of a wedding planner (and why Paige would do it again in a heartbeat) 💜 Making quick decisions and avoiding second guessing 💜 Wedding outfits, custom details and working with the right vendors 💜 Staying present on the day and not getting caught up in everything 💜 What she would do differently (and what she wouldn’t change at all)   …and so much more!   Let me know what you think of this episode!   If you’d like to see more from this wedding, check out the photos over on Instagram and make sure you’re following ⁠⁠@thekiwiweddingpodcast⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠@lydiarachelphoto⁠⁠ for more real weddings and inspiration.   Vendors: Photographer: @kerynsweeneyphotographer Videographer: @greyareaproduction  Planning & Styling: @withlove.weddingsandevents Venue: @themccallumresidence  Catering: @whiskcateringnz  Marquee: @twelve_tables  Lighting & Draping: @lalumiere_nz  Florals: @ruthfionafloral  Furniture: @flockevents  Stationery & Signage: @broganscottstudio  Hair Stylist: @boutiquebride  Makeup Artist: @beautybyblairgamblin  Content Curation: @your.momentsnz  Tableware: @royallaboratorie  Linen: @tble__linen__hire  Candles: @revelandlight  Musicians: @leegraymusic  Illustrator: @esther.illustration  Gown and Custom Mini: @trishpeng  Suit: @t.beggtailoring  Rings: @culetjewellery  Shoes: @gucci & @harloau  Earrings: @ameliegeorgebridal  Tennis Bracelet: @fifthavenuediamondexperts Bridesmaid Dresses: @becandbridge   Sponsored by ABC Insurance and KiwiSaver. ⁠⁠Book a meeting with Brayden⁠⁠ for a no pressure, no cost chat and make sure to say The Kiwi Wedding Podcast sent you.   Sign up for ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠THE LOVE LETTER BY LYDIA RACHEL⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, a fortnightly note from me with wedding inspiration, podcast highlights, real weddings I’m capturing, and a few things I’ve been loving. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sponsored by ABC Insurance and KiwiSaver. ⁠Book a meeting with Brayden⁠ for a no pressure, no cost chat and make sure to say The Kiwi Wedding Podcast sent you.This week, I’m joined by Kalani, and we chat about her beautifully relaxed, heartfelt wedding in Whangamatā, and the intentional way they approached the whole day.We chat about:💜 Meeting at 20 through mutual friends and never leaving each other’s side since 💜 A thoughtful scavenger hunt proposal, with letters retracing their relationship 💜 Planning their entire wedding before officially getting engaged (and having the ring sit on top of the fridge) 💜 Choosing to get married locally, including getting ready at her nana’s house for sentimental reasons 💜 Letting the day feel “warm” and focusing on the overall vibe rather than getting caught up in tiny details 💜 Why photography was a non-negotiable, and choosing their date around their photographer’s availability 💜 Skipping a bridal party and doing the day in a way that felt true to them as a couple 💜 Navigating the guest list (including having 17 kids there!) and trusting their gut over obligation 💜 Creating a day full of meaningful, personal touches, from DIY elements to designing her own wedding signage 💜 Highlights from the day, including beachside cocktail hour, speeches, and a packed dance floor…and so much more!Let me know what you think of this episode!If you’d like to see more from this wedding, check out the photos over on Instagram and make sure you’re following @thekiwiweddingpodcast and @lydiarachelphoto for more real weddings and inspiration.Vendors:Photographer: @kerynsweeneyphotographerSignage: @byyb___Reception Venue: @edisonsnzDress: @lulujacksonbridalSecond Dress: @dominique_healyGrooms Attire: @porterjamesGrooms Shoes: @organichandloomEngagement Ring: @rosepickkGrooms Ring: @steineratelierBridal Bag: @lovejamesstoreFood: @nobiggie.foodCake: @olivejaycakesWedding Planner (Diary): @madeoftomorrowIce Cream: @duckislandicecreamJoin ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠THE LOVE LETTER BY LYDIA RACHEL⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, a fortnightly note from me with wedding inspiration, podcast highlights, real weddings I’m capturing, and a few things I’ve been loving. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sponsored by ABC Insurance and KiwiSaver. Book a meeting with Brayden for a no pressure, no cost chat and make sure to say The Kiwi Wedding podcast sent you.This week, I’m joined by Charlotte to chat about her beautiful winter wedding in Queenstown and the story behind how it all came together.We chat about: 💜 Meeting online after Jack returned to New Zealand from the UK just before the borders closed💜 Their Paris proposal with the Eiffel Tower sparkling in the background 💜 Choosing Queenstown because it was a special spot and the first place they ever travelled together💜 Planning a destination-style wedding within New Zealand and trusting their venue after only viewing it online💜 Prioritising great food, drinks and a fun experience for their guests💜 Charlotte’s bridal experience with the amazing Natalie Rose Bridal and customising her Eva Lendel gown💜 Jack wearing a kilt and how it suited the winter Queenstown setting perfectly💜 The very shocking lead-up after a car accident on the way to the airport just days before the wedding💜 Keeping the morning relaxed with Ferg Baker platters and a chilled getting-ready vibe💜 Wedding budget realities and focusing spending on what mattered most…and so much more!Let me know what you think of this episode!If you’d like to see more from this wedding day, make sure you check out the photos and follow along at ⁠@thekiwiweddingpodcast⁠ and ⁠@lydiarachelphoto⁠.Vendors: Venue: @winehousenzPhotographer: @ashmuirphotoFlorals: @flowerroomqueenstownMakeup: @olivia.jane.jennerHair: @sarahlouisehair.bridalDress: @natalierosebridal @evalendelCake: @sophieroseannacakesCelebrant: Soph @marriedbyfriendsSignage/Stationery: @studio_fernGrooms/Groomsmen outfits: Kintail House Jeweller: @erikawatsonjewelleryDJ + Saxophone: @mountainbeatsdjcoShoes: Manolo Blahnik via @designer.wardrobe.marketplaceJoin ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠THE LOVE LETTER BY LYDIA RACHEL⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, a fortnightly note from me with wedding inspiration, podcast highlights, real weddings I’m capturing, and a few things I’ve been loving. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I’m joined by Hebah, a bride and makeup artist who created the most beautiful blend of Fijian Indian, Islamic and Kiwi wedding traditions. Her day felt deeply rooted in culture, but also fresh, personal and very “them.”We chat about:💜 Meeting Reyan through family friends and navigating a long-distance relationship between Auckland and the States 💜 Approaching marriage with intention within their faith, and how that shaped their journey 💜 Planning an intimate-by-cultural-standards wedding with 110 guests 💜 Choosing a dry hire venue and what that actually looks like behind the scenes 💜 Their Islamic nikah ceremony, including the floral partition and separate seating 💜 Creating a full mocktail hour so they could properly spend time with guests 💜 Custom designing her dream traditional wedding dress with a wholesaler in Pakistan 💜 Styling sage green across the bridal party and close family 💜 The emotional first look with her parents 💜 What she would do differently, and the small things she’s made peace with 💜 Hebah’s best makeup advice for brides, from skincare timelines to why trials really matter… and so much more!Follow Hebah: @makeupbyhebah_Let me know what you think of this episode!If you’d like to see photos from Hebah’s day, make sure you’re following @thekiwiweddingpodcast and @lydiarachelphoto where I’ll be sharing more from this beautiful celebration.Vendors:Venue: @hedgesestatePhotography & Videography: @thehpcollectiveCake: @shugarcoat__Stationery & Signage: @brushlettercoBride's Outfit: Custom-made in PakistanFlorals: @smithiestheplantsmithMakeup: @makeupbyhebah_Food: @chaahat_indian_cuisine, @indiansweetsnzl Hair: @shergillbeautyAlso featured on Together Journal.Join ⁠⁠⁠THE LOVE LETTER BY LYDIA RACHEL⁠⁠⁠, a fortnightly note from me with wedding inspiration, podcast highlights, real weddings I’m capturing, and a few things I’ve been loving lately.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join ⁠⁠THE LOVE LETTER BY LYDIA RACHEL⁠⁠, a fortnightly note from me with wedding inspiration, podcast highlights, real weddings I’m capturing, and a few things I’ve been loving lately.This week, I’m joined by Kelly, who shares the full story of planning a wedding that felt completely true to her and her husband, from a modern meet-cute to a fun, personality-filled celebration in Auckland.Kelly talks openly about what mattered most to them when planning their day, how they made decisions without getting swept up in wedding “shoulds”, and why guest experience was always the priority. This episode is packed with honest reflections, practical advice, and plenty of moments that will make you laugh and nod along.We chat about:💜 How Kelly and Mike met and the New York proposal, where Mike waited until the moment felt right💜 Choosing The Glasshouse as their venue and why being weather-proof in NZ was non-negotiable💜 Planning a cocktail-style wedding with no sit-down dinner, and focusing on great food, drinks, and music💜 Kelly’s dress shopping experience at Hera Couture, including a very memorable fire alarm moment💜 The mental load of wedding planning alongside work and real life💜 Bridesmaids dresses, decision fatigue, and what Kelly would do differently next time💜 Making the day feel personal with thoughtful details like a custom newspaper, handwritten notes for guests, and fun favours💜 Budgeting honestly, what they chose to prioritise, and why photo and video mattered so much to them💜 Letting go of perfection, trusting your vendors, and remembering you’re the guest of honour, not the host…and so much more!Let me know what you think of this episode.You can check out photos from Kelly’s wedding over on Instagram - and make sure you are following ⁠⁠⁠⁠@thekiwiweddingpodcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Lydia ⁠⁠⁠⁠@lydiarachelphoto⁠⁠⁠⁠ Find all K & M’s amazing vendors:Location: @glasshouse.nzDress: @heracouture Photography: @ashmuirphotoVideographer: @flatrocfilmsFlowers: @floralcentric Hair: @jules_armishaw_makeupstylingMakeup: @katesmithmakeupCandle Installation: @revelandlightCrane Machine: @kiwikraneBand: @velvettonesnzKelly's Wedding Featured on CapsuleWedding Dress Shopping ExperienceSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join THE LOVE LETTER BY LYDIA RACHEL, a fortnightly note from me with wedding inspiration, podcast highlights, real weddings I’m capturing, and a few things I’ve been loving lately.This week, I’m joined by Laura Mohi Ryan, founder of Wild Pilates, and recent bride. We’re chatting all about her somewhat unconventional wedding-planning journey.Laura and her husband Liam had been together for 14 years. Instead of planning a big wedding straight away, they ended up doing something that suited them perfectly, an epic Indonesian elopement on Sumba Island, just the two of them, plus a photographer and videographer who flew over from Bali.We chat about:💜 How Laura and Liam met, and the Italy proposal that totally shocked her (in the best way)💜 Why they stayed engaged for a couple of years and how that shaped their wedding choices💜 The “write your list separately” exercise that helped them figure out what actually mattered💜 Deciding to elope, not inviting anyone, and why they didn’t tell family and friends until afterwards💜 What their wedding day looked like on Sumba Island, from ocean swims to vows on the sand💜 Finding her dream two-piece outfit at LVR Bridal, plus the veil moment she didn’t see coming💜 Doing her own hair and makeup, and the one thing she recommends if you have to DIY it💜 The best way to tell friends and family afterwards (and why a few sneak peek photos helped)💜 Budgeting for an elopement without it quietly turning into the cost of a small wedding anyway💜 Laura’s advice for couples planning right now, especially if you’re feeling overwhelmed💜 A little intro to Wild Pilates and her healthy, realistic approach to feeling good in your body leading up to a wedding…and so much more!Follow Laura:@wildpilates@lauramohiryan Let me know what you think of this episode!You can check out photos from Laura and Liam’s wedding over on Instagram - and make sure you are following ⁠⁠@thekiwiweddingpodcast ⁠⁠Follow Lydia ⁠⁠@lydiarachelphoto⁠⁠ Find all L & L’s amazing vendors:Location, Celebrant & Catering: @thesanubariPhotographer: @imanperdana Videographer: @alokjosaphat Bride’s Outfit: @lvr_bridal Bride’s Shoes: @paris__georgia Groom’s Outfit: @porterjamessports Groom’s Shoes: @drmartensnewzealand Rings: @colinbartlett Makeup & Hair: Bride @lauramohiryanPre-wedding makeup lesson: @katesolleymakeupAlso featured on Together Journal.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

LAST CHANCE to enter to win your wedding photography, enter by midnight 17th Jan 2026:ENTER HEREThis week, I’m joined by the incredible Trish Peng, bridal designer, business owner, and one of the most recognisable names in the New Zealand wedding industry. Trish shares her journey not only as a bride, but as someone who lives and breathes weddings every single day.We chat about:💜 A full-circle love story involving a 21st birthday, Fashion Week, and a very well-timed dating-app reconnection💜 A surprise proposal complete with a picnic at the Auckland Domain💜 Planning a Queenstown wedding while running a busy business💜 Designing four wedding dresses for her own day, including a first look dress and a party mini💜 Managing expectations and pressure as a designer bride💜 Guest list rules, budget realities, and why your wedding isn’t a family reunion💜 The importance of carving out time with your partner on the wedding day💜 Life after the wedding and avoiding post-wedding blues💜 Building a global bridal brand, going viral on TikTok, and growing a business over 11+ years💜 Dress shopping advice every bride needs to hear, from timelines to try-ons and trusting your gut💜 Current bridal trends, minis, basque waists, and choosing a dress that truly feels like you…and so much more!Follow Trish: @trishpengLet me know what you think of this episode!If you’d like to see photos from Trish’s wedding day and get inspired by the incredible vendors involved, check them out and give them some love over on @thekiwiweddingpodcast and @lydiarachelphoto 🤍Find all T & T’s amazing vendors:Location: Private Estate - Colpo Di Fulmine in QueenstownBride's Gowns: Custom @trishpengGroom & Groomsmen Attire: @t.beggtailoringBridesmaids Dresses: Custom⁠ ⁠@trishpeng⁠Wedding Planner & Stylist: @onefinedayweddingsPhotographer: @jonnyscottphotoVideographer: @cameronandalannahFlorals: @michelecoomeyfloralFurniture: @hayleythehirer (now part of Flock Events)Lighting, Draping & Chandeliers: @lalumiere_nzCandle Installation: @revelandlightHair: @boutiquebride Makeup: @katesolleymakeupDiamonds & Rings: @thediamondshopCars: Volkswagen for the bridal partyFord Mustang: @muzz_and_mollyCake: @sophieroseannacakesEvent Stationery: @papierhqeventsInvitation Design: @brandedstudiocoInvitation Printing: @paperlust.coMarquee: @trulyyours_eventsSinger & Pianist: @shaun_prestonChampagne: MoetEspresso Martinis: @batchedcocktailsDJ: @jupiterprojectCelebrant: @michaelgoudieBridal Muse Budgeting TemplateAlso featured on:Trish Peng OnlineJonny ScottOne Fine DayWedding StyleSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.