My "job" allows me to experience some pretty amazing people, places and events. I figure it's time I share these stories with you all. Keep in mind, photography is my forte, not writing!

So what better way to start, than share the truly breathtaking wedding of Matt & Katie. So many parts of this wedding were special. For one, I got to travel all the way to New Zealand and photograph in one of the most beautiful places I have ever been, Piha Beach.

Piha is New Zealand's most famous surf beach and is located on the west coast of the North Island. It's covered in black iron sand from volcanic activity, making it unlike any beach I have seen before. The contrast between sky, sea and sand is simply stunning. Looks aside, the energy in Piha is very charming and relaxed. I immediately felt inspired and calm. Which is always an added bonus when shooting a wedding!

Matt was lucky enough to grow up just around the corner from this gorgeous paradise, making the location extra special. It was a beautiful experience in itself to meet his friends and family and to witness the New Zealand culture. Katie had friends and family fly all the way from Canada to celebrate their wedding. It was one big happy family! They welcomed me into their group instantly and it made for an unforgettable weekend.

This couple put so much thought into their handmade decor and wedding day events. Everything had a story and a purpose. It wasn't your traditional wedding, it was perfectly them. The day started casually with Katie getting ready with her family, while Matt relaxed and visited with his. Once ready, we took the couple to one of their favourite, local trails to have a "first look" and enjoy a walk together before their intimate ceremony. Matt and Katie chose to have their ceremony in the middle of a tropical forest, with guests encouraged to go bare-foot, and their dear friend to Marry them. It was simple, romantic and fun all at the same time.

Following the beautiful ceremony, Matt, Katie and all of their guests strolled through the tropical forest, down to Piha Community Hall to celebrate. This quaint venue is situated right beside the ocean and was the perfect location to end such a special day. The hall was decorated with unique finds from garage sales, thrift stores and family homes, giving the wedding a boho chic feel. Once again, Matt and Katie veered away from tradition and hired two different food trucks to cater the reception (a wood-fire pizza truck and a soft-serve ice-cream truck, YUM!) Guests enjoyed the delicious eats and local beer & cider while mingling outside, playing yard games, reminiscing and taking in the gorgeous sunset. Rather a DJ or ipod, Matt and Katie called upon their friends band to entertain, and that they did! The dance floor was never empty!