michaela & Matthew
“The Adventure Package”
Love Story
Michaela and Matthew’s story started in the most unexpected way…
Two chance encounters in two different bars, two nights in a row. On the second night, Matt broke the ice with what might be the worst pick-up line ever (on purpose, of course!), and somehow it worked. It wasn’t all smooth sailing, though. Matt had to ask Michaela out a few times before she finally said yes, but only on the condition there would be no stiff, formal dinners.
Their first date was a spontaneous road trip to Rotorua for Carl’s Jr and hours of easy conversation. Three weeks later, Matt asked Michaela to officially be his partner, and from that moment on, they’ve been inseparable.
Their life together has been full of milestones, adventures, and challenges that only brought them closer. Six months into dating, Matt moved in. Since then, they’ve ticked off travel dreams from Thailand to the USA, the islands, and every corner of New Zealand.
Matt’s proposal couldn’t have been more cinematic – on Santa Monica Pier, the Ferris wheel lit up with hearts, a busker singing in the background, and their best friends cheering them on.
Now, when it comes to their wedding, they’ve chosen to do it their way. A big traditional day didn’t feel like them. Instead, they opted to elope in Queenstown, a place they truly love, just the two of them, focusing on what truly matters.
Accommodation: The Hilton
Ceremony: The Remarkables
Couple’s Photos: Garden Spur
On the day
Tom, our videographer and our photographer Bri, met Michaela and Matthew at the Hilton Hotel in Queenstown. They had a beautiful room overlooking Lake Wakatipu, and the morning was sunny and crisp, with fresh snow dusting the mountains — the perfect winter backdrop. Joined by two of their closest friends, the vibe was relaxed and full of laughter as they got ready together. Tom and Bri were there to capture all the details, from the quiet moments on the balcony to the excitement of stepping into their wedding attire.
Once ready, everyone headed to Jack’s Point. The ceremony took place at the lakeside, surrounded by still blue water and beautiful, snowy peaks. It couldn’t have been a more picture-perfect winter’s day. Michaela and Matthew shared their vows with their friends by their side, before popping a bottle of champagne to celebrate on the lake’s edge. Tom and Bri caught every candid smile and champagne spray, making the most of the calm, glowing light.
After that, they flew to Garden Spur, a spot that’s absolutely breathtaking during winter. The snow was untouched and soft underfoot, the clouds were perfect, and the light was both soft and dramatic.
Michaela looked incredible wrapped in her fluffy fur coat, and the way she and Matthew laughed together on the ridge made for some of the dreamiest shots of the day.
After an hour of exploring, everyone hopped back in the heli and flew back down to Queenstown. Bri drove Michaela and Matthew back to their accommodation, still glowing from such a perfect, joy-filled winter elopement. It was one of those days that felt effortless, adventurous, and completely true to them, with Tom and Bri capturing it all beautifully!
Vendors:
Planner: Lost in Love | @lostinlove
Photographer: Tom & Bri | @lostinlove
Celebrant: Emily O’Leary | @emily_oleary_celebrant
Heli Hire: Heli Hire: Heliworks | @heliworks
