Some weddings feel less like an event and more like a gathering of hearts and that’s exactly what Katie & David’s beautiful day at Woodlands Estate and Gardens was. Surrounded by just their closest family and a handful of friends, their wedding felt deeply personal, joyful, and full of genuine love.

The couple chose the grounds of Woodlands for both their ceremony and reception, a stunning garden venue in the Waikato known for its towering trees, dappled light, and timeless charm.

A Ceremony Beneath the Trees

Their ceremony took place under the soft shade of the estate’s trees, with sunlight glimmering through the leaves like something out of a dream. One of the most touching moments of the day was Katie’s first look, not with David, but with his two children, who she has lovingly stepped into life with as their new stepmum. It was emotional, heartfelt, and truly unforgettable. We definitely teared up too.

An Intimate Celebration

After saying their vows, the couple shared cake and canapés in the gardens, mingling freely with their guests in a relaxed, outdoor cocktail-style reception behind the homestead. With no strict formalities, the afternoon flowed naturally, laughter, heartfelt speeches, and the easy kind of happiness that comes when you’re surrounded by the people who mean the most.

Golden Hour Portraits

Once the celebrations settled, we explored the Woodlands grounds for portraits, wandering the tree-lined paths, through golden fields, and along the estate’s driveway. The light was soft and warm, the kind of perfect sunset photographers dream of. We even made a quick stop down a nearby rural road, where long grass caught the glow of the evening sun and David’s very cool car made the perfect finishing touch to their portrait set.

Venue: @woodlandshistorichomestead
Wedding Dress: @astrabridal.hamilton
Makeup: @makeupby_kendal
Florist: @flourand_bloom
Cake/Bakery: @aspoonfulofruby
Hair Stylist: @hairbyzahrajade

Days like this remind me that weddings don’t have to be grand to be meaningful, sometimes, it’s the intimate ones that stay with you the longest.

✨ Scroll down to see Katie & David’s highlight film and a few of my favourite frames from their Woodlands Estate wedding day.