Claire & Shaun {Married}
The day you get to capture the wedding of someone you’ve known since you were 7. I’ve known Shaun a long long time. Going back in our Judo days with our kick ass moves, awkward dress sense and terrible hair styles. (Yes I speak for both of us). And now we’ve grown up and I’m happy to report that our hair styles (and dress sense) have improved immensely! …Well Shaun’s have at least!
And although we lost contact for a while as we both went on our own adventures, and experienced the world in our own ways. When Shaun and Claire arrived back in New Zealand a couple of months ago and asked if I would shoot their January 13th wedding. I couldn’t be more excited.
I’d met Claire a few times. But the more I spoke with them both as they are now, after travelling the world together and living life to the max. I couldn’t help but identify their relationship with Doug and my own. That’s when I got even more excited! I just knew right then and there, that this was going to be one of those epic weddings, with that personal touch. The type that tug on the heart strings…
…Was I right or was I right… just wait and see…
Shaun and Trevor. Brothers and best mates. But Shaun became the b*stard (Trevor’s fine words from his speech) at the age of 12 when he grew taller than Trevor. But that’s ok, Trevor forgives him and stands by Shaun today as his best man!
Shaun gets ready in his childhood home… look he’s smiling!
And then he finds the list! … Actually, Claire and Shaun as a team have to be the two most organised people I’ve ever met. To organise a wedding as amazing as this in just 2 months… you’d have to be!
I arrive to an equally smiley Claire. Who points the way to the dress that has my jaw drop so low I imagine looking like Jim Carey in ‘The Mask’. I think I just fell in a love a wee bit.
Claire spends her wedding morning at her Nana’s house, Heather. (Great name!). Nana’s house is immaculate. Beautiful antique chairs and mirrors and ornaments that all have their place. I was in photo heaven!
Just as Claire smiles 24/7, her Mum Linda does too. But how could you not, seeing your daughter prepare for the wonder that is marriage.
Aimee and Laura were amazing bridesmaids. They made a fuss and made sure everything was in place.
And now the personal touches start cropping up. See this handkerchief?! This was with Nana Heather when she married Grandad Pat many many many years ago. Now sewn into Claire’s dress, this along with the garter has been passed through the generations.
This is about the point where the eyes start getting a little puffy. Not Claire though – me! She just looks absolutely sensational!
Dad snaps the final shots as Miss Umbers.
Out at Pemberton Gardens, Shaun awaits his bride.
And then the smile doesn’t leave his face for the rest of the day!
This is the moment…
…Look at you two all married up!
They join two sands that mix together symbolizing the unity of marriage and a long life together. I love this!
And now they jig. They dance and groove their way up the aisle. You guys seriously rock!!!
Nana Heather and Grandad Trevor congratulate the bride. They couldn’t be prouder if they tried.
We snuck off before group photos to have some photos with the car Claire rocked up in.
Then the groom went missing…. and so did the car… Hmmmmm.
I should have learnt by now, if there is a car involved with a nice shiny bumper.. I WILL find through my downloaded images a face in that bumper. I did warn Doug I may just blog one, one of these days… haha… Ta daaaaaaaaa!
While I set up some shots, this gives Doug the opportunity to seize the 70-200mm lens from my grasp and capture some natural beauty.
Everybody likes a shot up their nose. Or perhaps not lol. But they all agreed that they have to work on their funny faces! Am I the only one that practices my funny faces in the mirror each night? Oh dear.
A bit of Mary Poppin’s anyone?
Recognise this umbrella from their engagement shoot?
The girls bring the sexy and sass…
While the guys…
…Can’t wait to throw a ball around!
But we had to leave the ball behind for now, but I don’t think Shaun was too phased. Look who he can now call his wife!
Perfect is the only word.
I always like a man with a bunch of flowers!
Shaun chose a unique triband ring.
Pemberton from the side looks nice and snug from the warm and windy day.
And then it was time for us to go home and reflect on such an amazing and heartfelt wedding.
It was such a privilege capturing your special day. I’m sure the rest of the evening was just as amazing as the day itself. We hope you have an amazing time on your honeymoon. And enjoy the new adventure as Mr & Mrs Melind. Congratulations guys! :o)
