From High School to Husband & Wife

Twelve years is a long time between first dates and wedding vows.

For Hannah and Chris, that journey began when they were just 15 and 16 years old. More than a decade later, surrounded by family, friends and one very important Labrador, they finally tied the knot on Chris's family farm in Claremont.

The couple had been engaged for four years, choosing to spend time travelling and enjoying life together before turning their attention to wedding planning. When the day finally arrived, it felt less like the start of a new chapter and more like the celebration of a story already well underway.

The morning began with Hannah getting ready at her mum's place in Gleniti alongside her bridesmaids. Keeping things personal, her Maid of Honour took care of her hair while Hannah did her own makeup. Meanwhile, Chris and the boys enjoyed a relaxed morning on the farm ahead of the ceremony.

As guests gathered beneath the South Canterbury sky and celebrant Steph Gregor prepared to begin the ceremony, you could feel the anticipation building. Many of the people there had watched Hannah and Chris grow up together. This wasn't simply a wedding day. It was the celebration of a relationship that had stood the test of time.

Set amongst familiar surroundings on the family farm, the ceremony was heartfelt, relaxed and full of genuine emotion. There were smiles, a few happy tears and, of course, an appearance from the couple's much-loved Labrador.

Afterwards, everyone headed just down the road to Claremont Hall where the celebrations continued. Catering South Canterbury kept guests well fed while stories, laughter and plenty of catching up filled the room. Em Hugo was there capturing the day alongside me, while the beautiful florals from Artificelle Floral Co. added colour and character throughout the venue.

From the very beginning, Hannah and Chris wanted a wedding that felt relaxed, genuine and true to who they are. No fuss. No pressure. Just good people enjoying a great day together.

And that's exactly what they got.

A family farm. A country hall. Plenty of laughter. A few happy tears. And a dance floor that certainly got a workout.

The kind of wedding that reminds you what it's all about.