The Maniototo is a gem of a place. There is history everywhere you turn.
Rugged beauty that comes from having a harsh climate. And it’s sparsely populated with resourceful people who truly adore their little corner of the world.
Sarah and Liam are two such people. Their decision to get married in Patearoa was as much about sharing this place they call home with friends and family from around the country, as it was about holding a celebration of their relationship.
They held their ceremony as close to home as they could possibly get - getting permission from the local Presbyterian Church to hold a ceremony officiated by an independent celebrant (me) in the quaint country church next door to their house.
They chose a Pick N Mix ceremony (one of my pre written ceremonies). They wanted a quick ceremony (I totally get that not everyone is as comfortable standing up in front of big groups of people as I am) that celebrated their love as it is - practical, full of every day thoughtfulness and care.
After their ceremony Sarah and Liam went down the river with their photographer Sari Renee to get some more fabulous shots and met up with their guests at the Patearoa Hotel for dinner and drinks.
It was honour to be a part of Sarah and Liam’s day - not least because I got to explore a new place. About the time they booked I was booked in to stay a couple of nights in the Naseby Holiday Park for my twice annual Hannah holiday (solo holiday involving rest, books, coffee, long walks and exploring historical sights). To make sure that on their wedding day I knew where I was going, I took a drive over to Patearoa and explored the town, the neighbouring town of Waipiata, a road Google Maps told me would lead to an historic cemetery (but instead lead to a ford and a 2km beautiful but entirely cemetery-free walk), and eventually the Hamiltons Cemetery.
If you love anything about Sarah and Liam’s day - here’s everything you need to know about making it your own.
Celebrant: Me
Photographer: Sari Renee Photography
Hair: Becky at The Hair Studio Ranfurly
Makeup: Liam's cousin Biddy
Dress: Leebee Bridal
Locations: Presbyterian Church Patearoa & the Patearoa Hotel
Flowers: The Gardens at SeventyFive Ranfurly
If you want to find out more about exploring one of my absolute favourite parts of the country this is a great place to start https://www.maniototo.co.nz/
And if you’d like to get in touch with me, all my contacts are below
Happy planning xx
Hannah
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