The Concept
This was one of those ideas I had been wanting to bring to life for a long time. I kept collecting Pinterest pins, saving little details and imagining what it could look like one day.
I wanted to create something inspired by the relaxed romance of a Southern Italian wedding, but with a little South Island twist. Think long lunches, beautiful florals, soft colours and a celebration that feels effortless.
The colour palette was centred around pastel pink, sage green, butter yellow and baby blue. I wanted something playful and fresh, but still romantic and timeless.
And what better place to bring this vision to life than The Longhouse in Karitane?
The Venue
The Longhouse is such a special property. Set along the Otago coastline, just north of Dunedin, it's a beautiful historic home filled with character, natural light and plenty of charm.
With its country kitchen, generous living spaces, lovely verandah and surrounding gardens, it has a warmth that makes you feel at home straight away. It's the kind of place where you can imagine spending an entire wedding weekend with your favourite people.
For couples looking for a wedding venue near Dunedin, I think it's a wonderful option. The exclusive-use accommodation makes it possible to turn your wedding into a little getaway, with time to slow down, enjoy the surroundings and celebrate together.
Karitane itself is also worth falling in love with. With its beautiful coastline, beaches and rolling Otago landscapes, it offers a lovely setting for couples wanting something a little more intimate and away from the city.
The Day
The day was so much fun! We had beautiful natural light throughout the house, plenty of laughs and so many lovely details to photograph.
I was particularly excited to work alongside some of Dunedin and New Zealand's most talented creatives. Everyone brought their own ideas and creativity to the table, and seeing the whole vision come together was incredibly rewarding.
We created two different tablescapes, one indoors and one outdoors, alongside bridal getting-ready moments, beautiful florals, stationery and all the little details that made the concept feel complete.
If you're dreaming of a wedding that feels like a weekend away with your favourite people, The Longhouse is definitely worth adding to your list.
The Creative Team
Venue: The Longhouse – @thelonghouse
Planner: Nicholls & Co – @nichollsandco
Photographer: Tori Bain Photography – @toribainphotography
Dress: White Wild Wedding – @whitewildwedding
Hair & Makeup: Kim Tuliau – @kimtuliau
Cake: Batter Up Cakes – @batter_up_cakes_dunedin
Flowers: River Bendflora – @riverbendflora
Stationery: Poppyseed Design – @poppyseeddesign
Model: Lilliana Murray Orr – @lillianamurrayorr
