Can you tell us a little bit about how you met?
We first met in 2010 at the Counties Manukau rowing club, 15 and 17 at the time. We quickly formed a close friendship which blossomed into a relationship a few years down the track. We have travelled the world together and made many wonderful memories. In 2018 we bought our first house, where we live with our adorable fur child Shadow. In 2019 on Christmas day Mathew got down on one knee and asked Nicole to marry him, and not surprising after almost 10 years she said YES!
How was your experience in planning your wedding?
We had a big wedding, 150 people, so it was quite the task organising it all. However, the Duke’s wedding planner Ellie and her team were amazing. Everything I asked for (which was a lot I might add!) Ellie and her team were all over it. Every little detail was thought of and carried out to the highest standard. The Duke were very accommodating and we will be forever grateful for The Duke making our wedding planning such a wonderful experience and our wedding day the best day ever.
Why did you choose The Duke of Marlborough as your wedding destination?
Nicole’s family have been holidaying in Russell for over 10 years. It is now a very special place to both Nicole and Mathew. It was a no brainer to have our wedding at the magnificent Duke of Marlborough. Not only did we have our reception at the Duke but we got married on the beach in front of the Duke. It looked spectacular. We wanted a venue that could provide it all and the Duke exceeded all of our expectations. Along with the fantastic food and wine, the service at the Duke was amazing. Many of our guests commented on how lovely everyone was and that they always had a full glass!
So, how did the big day turn out?
Our special day was PERFECT. From the months of planning and preparation our day went off without a hitch (cliché I know!). It’s a day we will remember forever and I’m sure many of our family and friends will too. We cannot thank The Duke enough for everything they did. It was a spectacular wedding venue, and we cannot recommend it highly enough. I wish we could get married there every year, but it will forever hold a special place in our hearts, and we will be back for many anniversaries to come.
