Baylys’ Farm Wedding // Melissa + Ryan
Melissa + Ryan’s wild wedding was a super fun, stormy day in the Bay of Islands and this international jet-setting Kiwi couple were able to celebrate with their nearest and dearest in one of the most beautiful wedding locations in New Zealand – Baylys’ Farm.
Melissa and her girls got ready at the most divine holiday apartment in Paihia, with sensational views across the bay. The talented Katy-Jane Makeup Artist and NSA Hair Boutique were in charge of a relaxed bridal prep morning without any sense of stress (despite the tropical storm outside!). Melissa’s bridesmaids wore green silk robes while getting ready and her clever sister put the finishing touches to the impressive wedding cake she had lovingly made for her big sis.
We felt very privileged to be so warmly welcomed into the family on the day and we all knew we were in for quite a ride as the storm didn’t seem to want to ease up! One of the two wet weather back-up plans at Baylys’ Farm conveniently allowed for Melissa + Ryan’s ceremony to be held in the clear marque on site with views across the sea. A driftwood arch covered in dried flowers and NZ toe toe framed the couple beautifully as they said their I DO’s. We captured some pretty joyous moments during the nuptials and a few tears too! A ‘unity sand ceremony’ and the exchanging of wedding rings sealed the deal and signified the moment their lives became one.
We were able to have a laugh outside with the group shots and the couple’s bridal party and wedding portraits were photographed in a rustic, real life working wool shed! Clear umbrellas came in very handy while we were out on The Point dancing in the rain which made for some incredible shots! These photos reminded us of the inspirational quote… “Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass, it’s about learning to dance in the rain!”
The wedding party kicked off in style back at the marquee where wooden tables were decorated with beautiful bunches of bunny tails, Spinifex and driftwood. We couldn’t help but notice how lucky this couple were to be celebrating together in such a dream wedding location like Baylys’ Farm with such a fun group of family and friends. Everyone was up for a good time and the dance floor was literally thumping which made for some great party pics!
We were blown away by how epic Baylys’ Farm was for this collection of rainy wedding images, and we also loved photographing Melissa’s exquisite boho-style wedding dress by Rue De Seine and stunning fly away veil from Samantha Stokes.
Melissa + Ryan needed very little guidance from us in terms of posing, as they had done an engagement shoot with us a few months before on Piha Beach… so they absolutely rocked it on the big day! We had the best time getting to know these guys, and it was an honour and a privilege to capture their amazing wedding day for them and their family.
Melissa + Ryan: “We are totally in love with all of our pictures!”
Here are a few highlights…
Baylys’ Farm Wedding Photographers: Robin + Andie
Venue: Baylys’ Farm, Waitangi, Bay of Islands baylysfarm.co.nz
Bride’s gown: Rue De Seine ruedeseine.com
Bride’s shoes: Sandals from Etsy www.etsy.com
Bride’s veil: Samantha Stokes www.samanthastokes.co.nz
Jewellery: Pearl earrings from Pascoe’s, sapphire ring (grandmothers), pearls around bouquet (great-grandmothers).
Bridesmaids’ dresses: The Iconic. www.theiconic.co.nz
Groom’s suit: Barkers. www.barkersonline.co.nz
Groomsmen’s attire: Barkers.
Celebrant: Debbie Howard – Melissa’s mum.
Hair: Hayley Haines, NSA Hair Boutique www.facebook.com/Nsahairboutique
Makeup: Katy Jane Makeup Artist www.katyjane.co.nz
Rings: Designed by bride and groom via Peter Reynold’s Jeweller.
Florist: Flower Creations by La Chey www.facebook.com/FlowerCreationsByLaChey
Cake: Melissa’s sister
Catering: Adam Young Catering.
Music: Bay of Islands DJ & Entertainment Services www.bayofislandsdjhire.com
Videography: MJS Visuals NZ www.mjs-visuals.nz
