Carmen + Ingo’s bohemian-inspired New Zealand elopement is one of those weddings that’s just so pretty it could easily be mistaken for a styled shoot. But alas, it’s 100% real and 100% amazing. These two reside in Germany, but after planning a month-long New Zealand summer vacation, they decided why not get hitched while there? They have a little secret spot, on a magical island near Auckland, that’s their favorite place in the world, so it sounded like a perfect idea + plans for a simple, intimate day got underway.
We’re not sure we could love the dreamy, romantic details of Carmen + Ingo’s celebration more. From Carmen’s breezyĀ Miss TashinaĀ dress, to the casual, boho sun-deck reception, the day had such a sweet + laid-back feel that we majorly, majorly love. And as you’ll see in just a sec,Ā Nadia Meli PhotographyĀ captured the day with the same soft,Ā anecdotal vibe + the images are just so beautiful…
Such a great bouquet, right?Ā Leaf And HoneyĀ used picture-perfect garden roses and an abundance of pretty greenery to give it a whimsical, picked from the garden feel. Loving that gold sequin bouquet wrap, too!
The most memorable moment is hard to pick, as there were so many, but it had to be when we saw each other for the first time under the tree. It was kind of magicalā¦the wind, the evening sun, our song -- and it was just us looking at each other with tears in our eyes. Even though the ceremony wasn't very long, it was a very emotional and intense experience. We had some personal vows in German that made the ceremony very personal and special for us both.
This has to be one of the most breathtaking spots to exchange your vows!
The reception was as intimate as it gets, with a super pretty table decorated with an olive branch + garden rose garland. Pillow seating + oversized lanterns gave the deck a sweet, bohemian-moroccan feel.
If you are thinking about eloping, DO IT! We loved doing our own thing, and even though some of our friends and family were a little sad that they couldn't be a part of it, we knew that they know us and that they would come around. We talked with them (a lot), and over the time everybody understood that we had to do things our way. So if you are considering an elopement, donĀ“t listen to anybody else, just listen to yourselves! Maybe you can do a little BBQ reception (this is what we do in summer at home) to celebrate it with your family and friends afterwords. Then everybody should be happy!
photography: Nadia Meli Photography // florals: Leaf And Honey // wedding dress: Miss Tashina // bride's shoes: Barker // hair stylist: Estelles Makeup // makeup artist: Estelles Makeup // catering: Chef Deb Waiheke // officiant: Celebrants On Waiheke // location: Waiheke Island, New Zealand // styling: Leaf And Honey // wedding rings: Aphrodite Diamonds // suit: Raymond India
I love how brilliant the color of the ocean is in these photos! I also love how simply sweet this couple is!
Oh my goodness, what a breathtaking spot! We’re planning a trip to NZ – would I be able to find out the exact location on Waiheke island? Looks like a must-visit spot!
It was at the “te miro bay” :) enjoy NZ! Its a wonderful country and you will find lotsa wonderful places…
Oh thank you so much for featuring this with so much love! xxx Nadia
I had the pleasure of meeting Carmen & Ingo here in Hawaii and they really are the sweetest, funnest, most talented couple ever! It’s no surprise that their wedding was this gorgeous.
This could not be more stunning! What a perfect, intimate day!
Oh my gosh, I about died when I saw the shots overlooking the ocean – unreal! What an amazingly gorgeous wedding!
The shots under that tree are pure magic! This elopement really pulls at your heartstrings :)
I’m in love with that table setting. So intimate and romantic.
These pictures brought me to tears, because I love everything about them: the setting, the love of Carmen and Ingo and how they live their life and love. Grateful for knowing both of them as wonderful wedding photographers themselves and wonderful photography mentors and teachers as well. And of course: the best pictures captured from Nadia Meli!!!
Carmen was beyond delightful to work with! And it is such a pleasure to see her in my gown in such a magical elopement. Nadia captured their day so perfectly, it felt as if we were all there. xoxo, miss tashina
the scenery, the wind, the light! These photos are AMAZING. As a professional wedding photographer who has seen a crazy amount of wedding photos and inspiration these are some of the best.
These are absolutely amazing!
Can anyone tell me what kind of greenery is in the bouquet?
Incredible shots !
I’m dying over those gold earrings! Does anyone know the designer?
Sorry for the late response…i just saw your question. The earrings are unfortunatly not from an official Designer. I found them in a little store in india (in silver) and they made them gold for me.
So beautiful!
Oh my goodness – so sweet. I’d love to know where her earrings are from…any idea?
Amazing! Love everything about this. Where did you stay and had your reception? Did you organise all of this yourself?
Looks gorgeous. I second Greta’s question. Can we know how you organised it/celebrant/reception location please?
Hi! This is beyond words.. Everything looks lovely!
We are contemplating to eloped ourselves but not sure where to start. Was this a DIY or someone planned this for the couple?
Did u have someone plan the whole elopement for you or did you do everything individually? I would love to elope and love all of your stuff