Fiordland Lodge Te Anau Wedding | Jesse & Nat

A few weeks ago Jesse and Nathanael flew in from New York to wed in one of their favourites parts of the world; Fiordland NZ. And I was honoured to be trusted as their photographer! We did all our communication via email up until the day before the wedding which was the first time we met. And as soon as I met Jesse & Nat and their families I knew the wedding day would be very special, laid-back, full of celebration and toasts to the new adventure of marriage!

Sixty guests from Australia and America flew in to witness a celebration of love, friendship and happiness. Jesse and Nat chose the stunning Fiordland Lodge venue which sits on the hillside on your way towards Milford, overlooking Lake Te Anau. This venue is a perfect reflection of Fiordland, a comforting country feel to it with big stone fireplaces, magnificent wooden beams that speak of the native forest and yet it holds a very luxurious charm as well. 

In true Fiordland style the weather had us worried for a bit but we ended up with glorious spring sunshine for most of the day. We headed up the Milford road for first look photos before the ceremony, stopping by the lake for a few photos before going on to the Eglington valley.

How cool are their silver fern lapel pins?

Jesse and Nat stole a few special moments around the grounds of Fiordland Lodge before the ceremony.

There might have been just enough wind to blow both flower vases over at the ceremony but the rain stayed over the other side of the lake and when the marriage was sealed with a kiss & everyone cheered for the newlyweds, the sun was shining!

As everyone moved inside for the evening there was the sound of clinking glasses and a buzz of happiness. In keeping with the laid-back style of the day, the table centre-pieces were perfect. Small pine-cones drew on the vibe of the Lodge and little wind-up kiwis were enjoyed by the guests.

I don't know what those red cocktails were but they looked good! And the hors d'oeuvres were devoured by guests. But the masterpiece had to be the three-tier wedding cake of cheese!

Jesse & Nat, thank you so so much for having us as your wedding photographers! You are both such awesome people & it was a pleasure to capture your beautiful wedding. Enjoy your travels & we will talk again very soon.x