Justin & Ané’s Wedding - Riverbend Gardens, Taranaki

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15 Jun

Justin & Ané’s Wedding at Riverbend Gardens, Taranaki

If you haven’t clicked on the video above, do yourself a favour. The highlight video is such a perfect summary of this incredible day.

Some weddings are remembered for perfect weather. Others are remembered because nothing could stop the joy. And some are remembered simple because they are unforgettable. Justin and Ané’s wedding at Riverbend Gardens in New Plymouth was one of those unforgettable days.

Affectionately known as my “Jasmine and Aladdin” couple, these two poured their hearts into every detail of their wedding day. From the styling to the thoughtful touches throughout the venue, to the personalised gifts and messages to each other, everything reflected who they are and the life they are building together.

And then the rain arrived.

In true New Plymouth (and New Zealand!) fashion, I found myself standing in the rain while checking a weather forecast that still insisted there was no rain coming. Their garden ceremony became one of the wettest outdoor weddings I’ve photographed.

Yet not a single person complained.

Not one guest left.

Everyone stayed. Everyone smiled. Everyone was simply happy to be there, celebrating Justin and Ané.

Whatstruck me most was how beautifully the couple embraced what they couldn’t control. Rather than letting the weather overshadow their day, they welcomed it. At one point, Ané stood with her hands stretched out, closed her eyes, and simply enjoyed the rain falling around her. It was such a powerful moment. There was a peace about it that is difficult to describe. I felt a Godly presence, as though God was reminding them that He was there with them, surrounding them, even in the middle of the storm.

And then, almost as politely as it had arrived, the rain stepped aside. By the time we moved into family photos, bridal party portraits, and their couple session, the skies gave us a break. The gardens glistened, the colours came alive, and we were able to capture some truly beautiful moments together.

One ofmy personal highlights of the evening? The dessert table featuring traditional South African koeksisters — a sweet, syrup-soaked treat that instantly brought a taste of home to the celebration. All of them homemade by the mother of the bride herself, YUM!

Therest of the evening was filled with laughter, dancing, and the kind of celebration South Africans do so well. Family and friends filled the dance floor, and the party continued late into the night.

When I look back on Justin and Ané’s wedding, I won’t remember the rain first. I’ll remember two Godly people who understood what truly mattered. No matter the obstacles, they got to marry each other. And in the end, nothing else mattered.

Justin en Ané, baie dankie dat ek kon deel wees van jul dag. Julle hou so ‘n spesiale plek in my hart en ek kan nie wag om te sien wat jul toekoms vir jul inhou nie. Mag jul huwelik super geseënd wees en mag julle altyd onthou hoe bevoorreg julle is om mekaar te kan hê xxx

Enjoy the photos (and highlight video)!