Kerry Dean Downing (Kerry is a heavy automotive engineer)and Chanita Kim Downing (nee Northe) (mother and physio assistant)
Our ages: 30 & 29
Ravensbourne, Dunedin
When and where did you meet: Kerry and I first met in 2007, in the Ra Bar. After losing touch for a few years, we caught up again and the rest is history.
The proposal: We had already been out looking at rings so it was a done deal. However, Kerry still wanted to actually ask me the question. He was so nervous that he ended up proposing when I was in my pj's, with a towel wrapped around my head, and a hand full of toenails! Our wee boy was also being vocal in the background.
Where was the wedding: Our ceremony and reception were held at Wingatui Racecourse. While we were off getting photos, our guests enjoyed picnics on the front lawn, used the photo booth, chose music from the jukebox and signed our fingerprint tree.
Why did you choose the venue: We were after a venue which could host both the ceremony and the reception, but also with great options for all weather possibilities. It was a beautifully hot day so we took advantage of the big open
spaces.
The dress: Once I found the dress it was a breeze; it was finding the dress that was the problem! I ended up with three wedding dresses in my wardrobe, but two never had a chance. I had my dress made by Parkland Bridal and it was perfect.
The bridesmaid's dress: I gave Gena, my bridesmaid, free range as to what she wanted to wear. The only stipulation was either black or orange. I knew I could trust her taste, and of course she looked fabulous.
The flowers: We had our flowers made by Flaxation. They were all flax so we will get to admire them for years to come.
The caterers: We went with Just Essence and they were awesome. The food was scrumptious: a lot of our guests commented on how tasty it was. One of our guests said it was the best wedding food she had ever tried and she has been to lots of weddings.
Highlight of the day: Our day was so perfect, we had the best day. We had a lot of guests from far away and it was having all of our family and friends together to celebrate that made it even more special.
Photographer: Our photographers were Nick and Alysha from FOCO Photography. Every time I look at the pics I get all teary, they are just beautiful. Impossible to just pick one favourite!
Also, Venetia and Donna from Boutique Designa Weddings helped to bring our vision for the day into a reality with the decorations, and with co-ordination on the day.
