Mike and Sophie’s story is full of love, laughter, and meaningful moments. From meeting at a family party to a heartfelt Christmas Eve proposal surrounded by loved ones, their journey led to a beautiful bohemian wedding at Camp Rangi Woods. With personal touches, stunning details, and a classic 1-carat oval solitaire engagement ring from Max Wilson Jewellers, their day was everything they dreamed of. Here’s a closer look at their special day and the memories they’ll cherish forever…
How/where/when did you meet – and what were your first impressions?
We met at my cousin’s leaving party, who also happened to be one of Mike’s best friends. I will never forget that night- Mike caught my eye straight away, I thought he was such a hottie! My first impressions of Mike was that he was a fun guy, with a bit of a wild streak.
How did you know you had found “the one”?
I wouldn’t say there was a particular moment where I realised he was “the one”, but our love has just grown over time, the more experiences we share together. Getting married just felt like the most natural next step in our journey.
Tell us about the proposal:
It was Christmas eve and all of our family were gathered at our house for a party. I knew something was up because Mike seemed super nervous and was wearing a dress shirt which seemed slightly out of character considering it was just a casual event at home. It was such a beautiful proposal, surrounded and supported by all the people that we love the most! That night we celebrated, drank lots of wine, and the next day we woke up on Christmas hung over but happy.
What made you choose Max Wilson Jewellers for your engagement or wedding rings?
Max Wilson Jewellers was the only choice for our rings. As long-time customers, we’ve built a wonderful relationship with Susie and Lisa, which gave us complete confidence in their ability to create the perfect set of engagement and wedding rings for us.
What role did Max Wilson Jewellers play in bringing your vision to life?
The best part was that I had very little to do with designing my engagement ring. Mike simply walked into the store, and the team knew exactly what I wanted. They guided him perfectly, making the process so much easier for him. Engagement ring shopping can be overwhelming with so many styles to choose from, but Susie remembered that I wanted something classic. Mike surprised me with a stunning 1-carat oval solitaire diamond, and it couldn’t have been more perfect!
What was the inspiration behind your wedding theme or aesthetic?
I would say our theme was quite laid back, bohemian style. We never felt compelled to spend lots of money on things like decorations. Our table vases and plates were all mismatched thrifted, and the flowers on the centrepieces were picked fresh from families gardens around town! Our bridesmaids chose what they wore, we just gave them a colour palette to work with. I loved that it meant that all of the girls chose something they felt good in, and something they could wear again after the wedding if they chose to.
What were some of your favorite moments from the ceremony itself?
Once I reached the alter, I went to give Dad a hug and the sleeve of my dress broke! It was an off-the shoulder style and the piece of lace was only button clipped onto the dress. Rather than try repin it back on, i just told my maid of honour to rip the sleeves right off! It made us all laugh and it was a bit of an ice breaker.
Also during the signing of the documents, my grandmother and grandfather played a song together on the piano and cornet. It was so romantic and incredibly touching that they did that for us.
What was the most surprising or unexpected moment during your wedding?
My Dad surprised myself and my sisters with matching gold signet rings on the morning of the wedding. Each signet ring was hand engraved with a koro pattern- symbolising new beginnings. Although each of us girls have different meanings attached to the rings, I interpreted it as a symbol of Dad “giving me away” to Mike. I wear the signet ring on my pinky finger right next to my engagement and wedding ring.
How did you decide on your venue, and what made it special to you?
We had our wedding at Camp Rangi woods in Pohangina, a beautiful bush clad setting with rustic charm. Mike had been to two great weddings their and loved the venue. There was heaps of space for our family to crash out in the cabins or pitch a tent.
What advice would you give to future couples planning their weddings?
Be strict with the guest list! At the time we felt we needed to make sure we included all of our extended family, but if we could go back and do it again we would cut down the guest list to make it more intimate.
