For Natacha, the dream of an Italian destination wedding had always been a vision of romance, elegance, and timeless beauty. However, with two small boys and the complexities of coordinating family logistics, planning a wedding in Italy became impossible. Determined to recreate the magic of Tuscany without the long-haul travel, she embarked on a search for the perfect venue in New Zealand. She found her answer in Paripuma, a breathtaking private estate in Marlborough’s Cloudy Bay that exuded European charm and natural serenity. With just 18 of their closest family and friends, Natacha and Callum experienced an intimate and unforgettable celebration that felt like an escape to the Italian countryside.

The Venue: A European-Inspired Hideaway in Marlborough

Nestled in the heart of New Zealand’s renowned wine country, Paripuma is a secluded private estate that seamlessly blends nature, tranquillity, and understated luxury. Surrounded by lush native gardens, a rugged beachfront, and the rolling vineyards of world-class wineries, the venue provided a picturesque setting reminiscent of a Tuscan retreat.

With its crisp white walls, minimalist architecture, and unobstructed coastal views, Paripuma exudes an effortless elegance that was the perfect canvas for Natacha and Callum’s wedding day. The estate’s natural beauty, combined with its peaceful ambience, created a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere—exactly what the couple envisioned for their intimate celebration.

The Photography: Capturing the Essence of Fine Art Elegance

When Natacha first reached out to me, she had already fallen in love with the luminous, timeless quality of fine art film photography. She knew she wanted her wedding day to be documented with the same level of artistry and attention to detail. New Zealand’s wedding market lacked fine art photographers specializing in film, so flying me in from Australia was a decision she made without hesitation. Her wedding photography was one of the most important aspects of the day, and she wanted every moment to be captured in a way that felt natural, elegant, and editorial.

Throughout the day, we had ample time to create breathtaking portraits, allowing the couple to soak in the joy of every moment. The soft, golden light of Marlborough, the earthy tones of the landscape, and the refined simplicity of their celebration all came together to create a gallery that felt both timeless and deeply personal.

The Details: A Minimalist Approach to Timeless Elegance

Natacha’s vision for the wedding decor was one of refined simplicity. She wanted the natural beauty of the venue to remain the focal point, so every detail was chosen to complement rather than compete with the surroundings. White roses and fresh greenery added a soft, romantic touch, effortlessly blending with the venue’s neutral tones and coastal charm.

Her gown, a sleek and sophisticated design, echoed the classic elegance of Italian fashion, while Callum’s tailored suit was the epitome of timeless style. Together, their looks were effortlessly chic—perfectly suited to the intimate, European-inspired atmosphere of their wedding day.

A Celebration of Love, Nature, and Timeless Beauty

For Natacha and Callum, their elopement at Paripuma was everything they had dreamed of and more. It was proof that a destination wedding isn’t defined by a location alone, but by the feeling it evokes. In the heart of New Zealand’s wine country, surrounded by nature, loved ones, and the artistry of fine photography, they created a celebration that was as intimate as it was breathtaking.

If you’re dreaming of a European-style wedding but seeking a destination closer to home, Paripuma in Marlborough is a stunning alternative—where the beauty of Tuscany meets the wild elegance of New Zealand’s landscape.