Haylee + Jesse // Ilex Botanic Gardens Wedding

Haylee and Jesse’s wedding was relaxed, and full of joy from beginning to end. These two have such a beautiful connection, and their day felt like a true celebration of love, partnership, and the blended family they’ve created together.

The morning started at Sudima Christchurch City, where Haylee got ready with her bridesmaids. There were coffees in hand, robes on, and the kind of easy banter that only comes from years of friendship. Between hair, makeup, and a few deep breaths, there was so much warmth in that little hotel room.

Wedding Morning
Wedding Day
Wedding Coffee Time
Wedding Details Flat Lay
Wedding Florals NZ
Wedding Champagne
Getting Ready Wedding Sudima Christchurch
Fun Wedding Photographers
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Meanwhile, Jesse was getting ready in town with his crew. We headed out for some photos against a few epic graffiti walls in central Christchurch – a bold, colourful contrast to the garden setting to come. Suits, street art, and just the right amount of mischief.

Groomsmen Photos
Groomsmen suits Christchurch
Groom Photos NZ
First Look With Bridesmaids
Wedding Bentley Chch

Haylee and Jesse chose to do a first look before the ceremony, tucked away in a quiet pocket of the Christchurch Botanic Gardens. That moment – just the two of them – was magic. The soft afternoon light, the lush greenery, the emotion… all of it. This is hands-down one of the best locations in the city for wedding photos. Every corner is beautiful, from forest-y paths to floral walkways and wide open lawns.

First Look Photos Chch
First Look Ilex Botanic Gardens
First Look Ilex
First Look Cunningham House
First Look Photos
First Look Photos
Wedding Portraits Botanic Gardens
Christchurch Botanic Gardens Weddings
Wedding Portraits Ilex
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Bride Botanic Gardens
Ilex Weddings
Florals Ilex
Ilex Brides
Ilex Wedding Party
Ilex

The ceremony at Ilex was full of emotion – personal, simple, and so genuine. Afterward, we explored the gardens for portraits before heading back to the venue for an epic champagne spray with the bridal party. These guys knew how to celebrate.

Wedding Ceremony Ilex
Weddings at Ilex
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Champagne Spray Ilex
Wedding Photos Ilex Chch
Ilex Photographers
Bride Ilex
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Ilex Wedding Photos
Ilex Events
Ilex Weddings
Ilex Weddings and Events
Ilex Christchurch Wedding Photographer
Ilex Wedding Photographers

The reception was all about good food, heartfelt speeches, and a seriously fun dance floor. Ilex is such a stunning space – light-filled and modern, surrounded by nature but right in the heart of the city. Perfect for couples who want something effortlessly beautiful with a relaxed vibe.

Fun Wedding Ilex
Ilex First Dance
Wedding Fun
Wedding Photogs Chch
Ilex Weddings

Haylee and Jesse – thank you for having us along to capture this incredible day. Your love, your energy, and your people made it all unforgettable.

If you’re planning a wedding at Ilex in the Botanic Gardens or looking for relaxed, documentary-style wedding photography in Christchurch, we’d love to hear from you.

Ilex Wedding Photos

Ilex Wedding Photographers: Robin + Andie

Venue: Ilex https://www.goodcompany.nz/weddings/

Hotel: Sudima Christchurch City https://www.sudimahotels.com/en/our-hotels/christchurch-city/

Makeup: Ashley Jane https://www.ashleigh-jane.com

Wedding Car: Maserati via Unique and Classic Cars https://www.uniqueandclassiccars.nz/our-fleet

Wedding Dress: To Cherish https://tocherish.co.nz

 
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Pemberton Gardens Wedding // Rashana + Alex