The Proposal

After earlier asking my Fathers permission, Clive got down on one knee and proposed to me under the Christmas tree on Christmas Day 2005.

The Preparation

We had a year in which to plan the wedding. There were a heaps of things that we did ourselves - I made all the invitations and I designed the bridesmaids dresses and we got them made.

Our Wedding Theme

Modern classic I call it.  I wanted very timeless classic style but still very up-to-date.

The Ceremony and Reception

We had the wedding at Riccarton House in Christchurch.

We lost Clive's Mum to cancer in August 2006 so it was sad that she could not be there but the ceremony was special anyway.

It was fantastic having all our closest friends and family there. What's more, it was 30 degrees and beautiful!

The Dresses

I wore a strapless full length diamond white dress with crystals on the bodice and body - from Jaycees Brides (Christchurch). The bridesmaids wore strapless dusty pink cocktail style dresses, one made by the bridesmaid herself, one made by my Aunty and the other made by a bridesmaids Grandmother.  The rossettes on the dresses were made by my Aunty.

The Cars

We didn't need cars because we had a fabulous room upstairs in Riccarton House to get ready all morning, the hair dresser and make-up artist came to us and then when we were ready we just walked down the stairs.

Most Romantic Moment

When Clive gave his speech about me!

Funniest Moment

When the groomsman read out their speeches and the telegrams.

Traditions

I wore Clive's Mum's pearl necklace and pearl earrings and Clive wore the same shirt that his Dad was married in over 35 years earlier.

Something old - the diamonds in my wedding band were from my Mum's engagement ring.
Someting borrowed - the pearl earrings and necklace I wore

Something blue - a blue garter my Mum brought me

Something new - my dress, my shoes, my hair piece.

We pretty much followed tradition other than our vows which were adapted.

Best Decision

Planning early - I had a year and paced things out over the year, this made for no rush at the end and also the money we spent was spread out the year.

I would do nothing differently!

The Honeymoon

Fiji!