We were living in Auckland when we discovered Old Forest School via Google! We loved the outdoor space and relaxed vibe. The rural setting looked peaceful and we love animals so the horses, donkeys, pigs etc enticed us even more. My husband Ian had started a career in teaching, so the setting aligned even more.
Celebrant…
We choose Will Johnston, a friend of ours who was just absolutely amazing. And to this day, people still talk about how wonderful and funny he was. Thank you Will!!
Photographer…
Rose McMahon was the daughter of the owner of Old Forest School and despite her young age at the time, was EXTREMELY talented and natural with the camera! We only wanted her, after looking at the work she had done. Thank you Rose for providing us with memories that will last a lifetime. We will cherish these forever.
Food…
We wanted people to sit down and eat but something casual and different. We went for Tag Burger, a food truck. And glad we made that choice was! Massive burgers that were delicious! and Mr Whippy was desert, along with wedding cake. Will never regret that decision either. Everyone really enjoyed the relaxed vibe We were going for. And who doesn’t love a Mr Whippy icecream!
Hiring a bus to take people to and from the venue was a great call. People could relax and drink. If the oldies wanted to head home earlier there was an earlier departure time. But all of our friends said one of their highlights from the day was the bus ride back to Pukehina where everyone sung their lungs out and continued partying all the way to their homes.
On the morning of our wedding…
Ian went for a swim at Pukehina Beach with his groomsmen. Had beer and whiskey at the beach and bought a Maketu pie from the service station. Natalie had a sleep in, a walk on the beach with my bridal party and French Bulldog and then slowly got ready doing hair and makeup.
Favourite photo spot at Old Forest School…
In the peaceful forest with the roaming horses. They looked magical in the pics and was really neat to see them on our day.
Our first dance changed from a slow romantic song to Bruno Mars ‘Uptown Funk’ and the whole bridal party joined in and we completed our rehearsed moves. It looks great on our wedding video when looking back.
A special aspect from our day…
I had my Dad AND Brother walk me down the aisle. We are very close so wanted the two most important men in my life (apart from my husband!) to do the honor of walking me down. It was the best decision.
The best memory from our day…
Ian: “the ceremony. Seeing you walk down the aisle. That was for us. Everything else was for everyone else”
Natalie: walking down the aisle and saying our vows to one another. AND Having all of our friends and family together in one place. That will never ever happen again
Best part about married life…
Ian: starting a family
Natalie: growing old together. And having our 2 gorgeous kids, who are 2 and 4.