Lifestyle session at the Gilbert's

What I love about sessions like these is capturing the everyday routine - the kids running around with sauce on their face, the in-between moments, the tantrums and the giggles. These guys are lucky enough to live on a large property which is covered with dandelions at this time of year - so that's where we started. Deisel their dog was never too far behind.  The girls then had dinner in their playhouse and a bubble bath in an old claw foot bath with some sweet window light. I loved capturing this slice of life for you guys!

Kiel and Aliesha's DIY backyard wedding in Tahuna, Waikato

These two got married in their own backyard, how awesome is that!?  Only a few months out I got an email from Aliesha saying they'd ditched their venue and took on the mammoth but extremely rewarding task of turning their backyard into the spot where they would exchange their vows and party into the night.  With loads of impressive DIY's from the groom and all too important styling and direction from the bride this hilltop property overlooking the Waikato countryside was turned into one spectacular and extremely meaningful place for the occasion.  Although it was obviously a lot more work and a little more stress than the venue option, Kiel and Aliesha both told me they wouldn't have done it any other way. You couldn't wipe the smiles from their faces all day long.

Thank you to my trusty second, Arie Stokes for killing it by my side as usual. 

Wedding Photographer: Tiffany Curtis | Second Shooter/assistant: Arie Stokes

Brides Dress: Custom design by Raewyn Bayer | Brides Shoes: ASOS

Grooms Suit: Hallensteins | Grooms Shoes: Hannahs

Bridesmaids Dresses: Isla Rose | Robes / Kimonos: Cotton On Body | Groomsmen: Hallensteins | Flower Girls Dresses: Custom design by Catherine Cookson | Paige boys: Custom design by Lynn Lehmann 

Flowers:  Sheree Austin | Makeup: Makeup by Baillie | Hair:  Ash Drake Hair | Jewelry: Bride’s own, Bridesmaids wore Lovisa | Stationery: Vistaprint and custom additions created by Bride, Aliesha Lehmann | Cake: Debbie Breen

Ceremony Arch + Flowers: Custom made by Groom, Kiel Lehmann | Reception backdrop: Custom made by Groom, Kiel Lehmann | Table decoration: Custom made by Bride, Aliesha Lehmann and Groom, Kiel Lehmann

Ceremony & Reception Venue: Aliesha and Kiel’s property in Tahuna, Waikato