Some love stories are written in the stars – Kristy and Frank’s began in the kitchen. Over a decade ago, these two aspiring chefs met at university and discovered the perfect recipe for love in each other. Fast-forward to today, and their Auckland vineyard wedding at the beautiful Markovina Vineyard Estate was everything they had hoped for: elegant, relaxed, and heartfelt, with every moment filled with laughter, emotion, and timeless style.
An Elegant & Relaxed Celebration at Markovina Vineyard Estate
Set in the heart of Auckland’s wine country, Markovina Vineyard Estate offered the dream backdrop for Kristy and Frank’s celebration. Their ceremony, led by the warm and engaging Michalea Seto, was filled with heartfelt vows, tears of joy, and plenty of laughter. Friends and family gathered beneath the vines to celebrate a love story that had already been a decade in the making – a true real New Zealand wedding that felt personal and deeply meaningful.
From start to finish, the day was all about connection, food, and family – the three things that matter most to this couple. The atmosphere was relaxed but refined, combining timeless styling with authentic, heartfelt details.
DIY Wedding Inspiration & Personal Touches
Kristy and her wedding crew infused the day with creativity and personal flair. In a nod to their shared culinary background, DIY details were woven throughout — from the bouquets handmade by the bride and her team to a jaw-dropping centrepiece cake that stole the show.
As a talented pastry chef, Kristy designed and baked a three-tier masterpiece with three different flavours – each layer crafted with care and precision. But the real show-stopping moment came during the reception when, instead of a traditional cake cut, she sliced the side off with a machete, revealing the perfectly layered interior beneath the icing. It was dramatic, fun, and so very them.
The magic of the day was captured beautifully by Wanting Huang Photography, whose lens told the story of the couple’s journey with warmth and authenticity. Every smile, tear, and heartfelt embrace was perfectly preserved – creating a gallery full of timeless memories from an unforgettable Auckland wedding.
Venue/Vendors used
Photography: Wanting Huang Photography
Venue: Markovina Vineyard Estate
Celebrant: Michalea Seto
Flower Arch: The Journey Wedding
Photo Booth: Mirror Magic NZ
Cake: By the bride
Dress: Bridal Brilliance
Makeup & Hair: Yuyu Jin Li makeup
Videography: DCH Film