Aimee and Matt
Written by Mel Foster
From our first meeting on a Sunday afternoon, sitting outside at Esplanade, drinking coffee – I knew these two lovers were going to be a whole lot of fun! They wanted a wedding that was exactly like the one I LOVE creating - a rom-com, a whole lotta love and laughter.
We met up a few times along the way and like all things Dunedin; there was a 2 degree of separation, so we ran into each other at the supermarket, and while playing with our kids out a Mac Bay…plus jumping into DM’s helped to build a connection so that I could write them a ceremony that was a true reflection of them.
Part of my service is to also offer help writing vows, and both Aimee and Matt took me up on this. Individually we met over a drink and brainstormed together, so that they had some killer words to say to one another on their wedding day.
THE BIG DAY ARRIVES
11th November, 2023 at the gorgeous Finistere, what a hidden gem that place is! It was a warm day, and everything was ready to make their love official. Over my time getting to know Aimee and Matt I discovered their love for comedy and the Step brother’s movie. What better way to incorporate something meaningful to them, then to create a grand entrance for Matt and his entourage to the soundtrack of the Catalina Wine Mixer and that’s exactly how we kicked off their rom-com ceremony. Followed by Aimee looking stunning as her Mum walked her in to a six60 song they loved.
Their love was a teenage love that had stood the test of time and the changing seasons of life. Now as a family with two kids they wanted to become husband and wife and continue to do forever together. He spoke of how it had pretty much been love at first sight, and she had mentioned that she hadn’t really thought of marriage, until she met him.
They lit a candle to remember loved ones, said amazing personal vows to one another, their son presented the rings to them, and then as we signed the paperwork, their 1-year-old daughter decided it was the perfect time to be sick!! Luckily, Dad managed to aim her away and it didn’t land on anyone…so a quick regroup before finishing of the ceremony with a Quaich ceremony as a nod to Aimee’s Scottish roots.
A Quaich ceremony is a unity ritual where the couple use a two-handed vessel to drink from. The Quaich, is often referred to as the love cup, and was used by clans to show the Scottish tradition that seals the bond of two people, and marks the blending of two families.
Now, not being so traditional, they decided to shake things up a little and instead of the traditional scotch, they took a swig of tequila!!
And then the guests followed suit by joining them in shots. They were pronounced husband and wife…..and then off for photos and PARTYING! A beautiful reception followed, with tear filled speeches and a moment when along with his grandma, their son sung his mum and dad a song; PINK’s cover me in sunshine. The night ended with lots of music and dancing, and in true Aimee fashion, some twerking!!!
It truly was a magical day; one I could easily relive again and again!!!! I know I mention it often, but that’s because it’s true – I really do get to marry the best humans ever. I am incredibly lucky that I now get to call these two friends as well!
Photo credit: Taylor Larking Photography
Make Up: Amplified Cosmetica