Dwane O'Connor and Cleo O'Connor
Dairy farmers
Clydevale, South Otago
When and where did you meet: We met eight years ago while working on neighbouring farms in Opotiki, Bay of Plenty. I happened to mention to my workmate that I thought Dwane was cute and a couple of days later he asked me on a date and we've been together ever since.
The proposal: It wasn't any big romantic gesture. We had already been together for three years and Dwane just asked me one day if I would like to go ring shopping and of course I said YES.
Where was the wedding? We got married in the beautiful gardens at the Hideaway 201 near Winton and also had the reception there as well.
Why did you choose the venue? We had decided on having a garden wedding, so we went to look at the Hideaway 201 and it just ticked all the boxes and I just loved everything about the place. Joanne was so friendly and super-helpful right from the beginning.
The dress: The dress was a bit of a challenge for me. With both of my bridesmaids living in the North Island they weren't able to come shopping with me so our daughter Savana (6) went with me instead. This was actually pretty helpful in the end. She is very honest and had no qualms telling me if I didn't look good in a dress. I ended up choosing a Venus gown purchased from 4 Ever After Bridal in Invercargill.
The bridesmaids' dresses: They were an online purchase and turned out perfectly. They were one-shoulder gowns in lavender, bought from Parkland Bridal.
The flowers: Shani Hopgood from Ambrosia Designer Florist in Invercargill did my flowers. She did a beautiful job and they turned out just as I asked her to do them, but better.
The caterers: MASH catering did our food for us. They did an awesome job, the food was delicious.
Highlight of the day: I'd have to say the biggest highlight of our day would have to be being able to share our special day with our two gorgeous children and catching up with all our family and friends.
Your photographer and favourite photo: We used Megan Graham from Megan Graham Photography in Winton. She did a fantastic job and honestly it's too hard to choose just one picture as a favourite.
