Amber and Mathew

Tell us a little about yourselves, what you do, what you love, what is unique about you and your relationship … Matthew is an electrician, Amber is a Banker. We own our own home in Rotorua with our pup, Loki. 

We love to travel, many of the jewellery we wore on the day was bought at our favourite places overseas. We also love to film and photograph. Matt likes to make Vlogs, Amber has her own blog so the photography on the day was very important. We like to be outdoors hiking and mountain bike riding and enjoy spending time by the lakes or beach in summer, but can always do a movie day in. 

What is unique about us and our relationship? We met at a New Years party and hit it off straight away, it wasn’t long before we were dating – we have been having adventures, supporting each other and making each other laugh ever since.

Tell us about your special day, was there a specific theme or style? Tell us a little about the setting, the styling and some of your favourite details … We wanted a very relaxed wedding. Something that celebrated everything we love. Good food, good music and gathering with the people we loved most. Amber designed the wedding and had a very specific picture in mind of what the wedding was to look like. We loved chancery street as it reminded us of our favourite place in London. We wanted the day to be classic and beautiful, but with a hint of modern. Amber had previously worked at a florist and having flowers about was important. We also wanted something different for the scenery, and a rooftop view of Auckland CBD was perfect, especially when it started getting dark and the city lights illuminated the dance floor. The wedding was all in once place, to keep things chill – we had our photos beforehand, so once we were on the roof we were there to have a good time with our closest family and friends.

What were some of the most memorable/unique moments from the day? The most memorable moments after saying our vows were the moments we had after the rush alone, these were short but special and allowed us to breathe and take it all in. Our DJ Matt from Addictive DJs was incredible, and kept the guests laughing and dancing all night.  We all had an amazing time on the dance floor, and because we limited the seating there was both sides of the family mingling and dancing together all night – it was a great experience to see the families bonding like that, instead of seated at seperate tables.

Any advice for other couples planning to spend the rest of their lives together? Be supportive of each other, communicate and remember to laugh and have fun- do the things you love and actively make time to enjoy each others company.

Photographer: Wild & Grace Blog: Together Journal Venue: Chancery Chambers Rooftop Terrace, Auckland Makeup & Hair: Lipstick & Co Flora: Little Leaf Florals Bride’s Dress: Hera Couture Groom’s Suit: Hugo Boss Planner: The bride Catering: No Biggie Catering Beverages: Beverage Smart Cake: The Caker Acrylic Sign and Card Box: Paper Darling Celebrant: Di Simmons  Entertainment: Addictive DJs Ring/s:  Rocks & Diamonds, Taupo Bride’s Shoes: Dune London Groom: Julius Marlow Bride’s Earrings: Swarovski  Bride’s Bracelet: Emporio Armani Groom’s Watch & Cufflinks: Emporio Armani Bride’s Fragrance: Elie Saab Le Parfum Groom’s Cologne: Dior Sauvage Bridesmaids Dresses: Pagani Bridesmaid Shoes: Novo Bridesmaid Earrings: Forever New

5 Beauty rituals every Bride should do before the big day

By Lipstick and Co and Esther Dawson

 

When planning your wedding day look it’s so hard to know where to start and what to do. There are so many different beauty treatments and services on the market, so how do you choose? We have tried and tested all of the following top treatments – see below for our advice on what to do in preparation for your big day.

Image by Patina Photography, Hair and Makeup by Lipstick and Co

Image by Patina Photography, Hair and Makeup by Lipstick and Co

 

 

1/ Tanning

 

Not everyone wants to look like they just left the Caribbean but if you’re after even a subtle glow, then an artificial tan is the safest way to go. There are home use formulas that come in foams, creams and sprays if you’re on a budget. But for a flawless, long-lasting tan, opt for a bridal spray tan. This tan is and sprayed in two layers, one horizontal and the other vertical. This cross-hatched spraying technique allows the technician to deliver a streak-free, customised tan that lasts up to two weeks.

Image by Perry Trotter Photography Hair and Makeup by Lipstick and Co

Image by Perry Trotter Photography Hair and Makeup by Lipstick and Co

 

2/ Manicure

Your nails will be on show in many of your pictures on the big day. Make sure that your nails are freshly filed and painted for those close-up ring or bouquet shots. The best nail polish product on the market is Shellac. Shellac is a type of nail polish that lasts for weeks and dries instantly under a UV light. They are very resilient and super shiny. Unlike gel and acrylics, they cause no damage to your natural nails. Check out Pinterest for some awesome shellac mani inspo!

Image by Fluro Grey Photography,Hair and Makeup by Lipstick and Co

Image by Fluro Grey Photography,Hair and Makeup by Lipstick and Co

 

3/ Teeth whitening

A radiant smile of pearly whites will look stunning against your white dress. There are lots of DIY strips, gels, tooth pastes, and pens. Just be careful to not get it on your gums and stop if you feel any sensitivity or pain. The safest and fastest way to a brighter smile is Beyond Polus Laser Teeth Whitening. This treatment is done at a professional clinic and consists of two 20 minute treatments in a row. You also get given a teeth whitening pen to take home to maintain these great results.

Image by Perry Trotter Photography, Hair and Makeup by Lipstick and Co

Image by Perry Trotter Photography, Hair and Makeup by Lipstick and Co

 

4/ Lashes

Most makeup artists will provide you with temporary cluster lashes for your wedding day but if you are after dark, full, fluffy lashes then the semi-permanent individual lashes are the best way to go. The options include individual classic extensions and volume lashes. The classic gives you length but not volume, so if you want volume and length then ask for volume lashes. These come in 2D, 3D and 4D (some go even higher). The number relates to how many lashes flare from each of your own lashes – 2D is subtle while 4D is dramatic and full of volume.

Image by Fluro Grey Photography, Hair and Makeup by Lipstick and Co

Image by Fluro Grey Photography, Hair and Makeup by Lipstick and Co

 

5/ Brows

Your brows frame your face and can make a huge difference to your overall appearance. It’s a great idea to grow your brows out for at least a month before your wedding and then go get a brow map and shape done to find the perfect arch. You can get them waxed, threaded or plucked and then maintain your new brows at home. Be sure to ask about where you can and can’t pluck on your own.

With all of the above treatments, be sure to take part in a trial at least 1 month before the big day to allow time to change anything you may not like.

Summer Bohemian Styled Shoot →

Styled Shoots

By Truly and Madly

"Inspired by the simple things in life, by the land, by mismatched style, and two best friends carefree in the summer air", this bohemian styled shoot collaboration, courtesy of Husband and Wife duo PATINA PHOTOGRAPHY is as breathtaking as the New Zealand landscapes it's set in.

We're in love with the minimalistic approach, bohemian details, beautifully captured fading light, and the spectacular surrounds and tranquility of rustic wedding venue MCGRATHS ESTATE.

Models Rose HalfPenny and Cynthia Urayeneza, made even more stunning by the talented LIPSTICK AND CO, are magnetic in their RUE DE SEINE dresses (featuring one of my favourites, the BLOSSOM gown) and perfectly paired with wild bohemian blooms designed by VIDA FLORES.

This is a beautiful shoot by an incredibly talented group of New Zealand wedding creatives. View more of their work by clicking on the links below - just after you get a little lost in the magic...

PERSONALITY QUIZ: WHAT'S YOUR PERFECT BRIDAL LOOK?

We have partnered up with Auckland Weddings to bring you a quick and easy personality quiz. The quiz will determine a "look" you could use on your wedding day to reflect your personality. There are 8 sections below: under each title, select the number that most represents who you are and keep a record of the numbers you select. Good luck!

 

 

YOUR IDEAL SUMMER’S DAY OUT:

 

  1. Finding a beach, the closest one you can. All day you sit on the sand, read, swim, and surf. You might even stay there till sunset.
  2. Hit up a second hand bookstore. You the kind of girl that can waste away hours flicking through dusty pages. The idea that some mystery person from the past held the very book that you are holding excites you.
  3. Shopping on Queen Street. You keep going until your shopping bags get too heavy. New things! There is no better way to spend a day.
  4. Bush walk, the bright greens and blue skies of the New Zealand landscape is all you crave. Hearing the birds chirping and knowing they get to live out every day in their perfect natural environment makes you a little jealous.
  5. You find out what is on in Auckland, and you go. Whether it is a new show at the civic, a food festival in Aotea Square, or an exhibition at the Auckland Art Gallery you are so there. Look out Fashion Week 2016!

FAVOURITE COLOUR:

  1. Faded-bone whites and light browns. The kind of colour that continues to look great when it is exposed to sunlight!
  2. Light pastel colours. You like your colours easy going and not to rich. You don’t need bright colours to catch eyes.
  3. Black, and heavy contrast. You love mixing in the occasional bright and eye capturing colours into your wardrobe too!
  4. Greens, browns, and soft blues. The colours that remind you of the world.
  5. Metallic coulours and dark shades. Urban and modern colours that look great no matter the occasion.

THE ITEM OF CLOTHING YOU CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT:

  1. The denim jacket you have had for years; keeps you warm-ish in winter and looks cool in summer.
  2. A woolen cardigan. Nothing too fancy, but it always looks cute and it has character.
  3. The dress that hugs you in all the right places but still feels classy.
  4. A classic pair of jeans that fit you like a dream, you can wear them anywhere. They have travelled with you to all your favourite places.
  5. A well-fitted leather jacket. You can wear it all day and all night. Dress it up, or dress it down. It’s versatile just like you.

WHICH OF THESE LOVE SONGS WOULD YOU LISTEN TO RIGHT NOW?

  1. Home - Edward Sharp and the Magnetic Zeros
  2. My Girl - Temptations
  3. Crazy in Love - Beyoncé
  4. Make you Feel My Love - Adele
  5. Can’t Feel My Face – The Weekend

FAVOURITE FLOWER:

  1. Ranunculus
  2. Hydrangeas
  3. Peony
  4. Daisy
  5. Protea

BEVERAGE OF CHOICE:

  1. Coffee
  2. Tea
  3. Champagne
  4. Fresh juice/ smoothie
  5. Red wine

GO-TO BRIDAL HAIR ACCESSORY

  1. Wired hair vine
  2. Birdcage veil or pearl hair comb
  3. Tiara or jeweled clip
  4. Fresh flowers
  5. Golden leaf headband

YOUR SPIRIT ANIMAL:

  1. Deer
  2. Owl
  3. Peacock
  4. Horse
  5. Spider

You finished! If you answered mostly 1 see look A, if you answered mostly 2 see look B, mostly 3 see look C, mostly 4 see look D, or if you answered mostly 5 see look E. Enjoy your looks!

Look A: The Boho Chic

You are a low maintenance unique beauty who loves the simple things in life. The best hairstyle to reflect this would be soft messy curls or a tousled messy updo with Braids. For your makeup its best to opt for a style that will look great all day without having to touch up every half an hour since thats way to much hassle for a laid back Bride like you. Chose a light to medium coverage satin finish foundation (unless you're used to wearing a full coverage). Your eyes would be best with soft bronze and brown shadows and lots of individual fluffy lashes. Pair this with pale pink blush, lots of highlighter and a pale pink/nude gloss.Your Wedding day touch up bag won't need to consist of too much since you won't like having to touch up anyway. All you need is blotting paper and your chosen lip gloss to touch up after eating and drinking.

 

Look B: The Classic Beauty

You are a timeless beauty and as such would be best in something timeless or vintage inspired. For your hair you want to keep it smooth, shiny and elegant. Vintage waves or a sleek up-do. For your makeup choose a long lasting medium coverage matte foundation (unless your used to wearing a full coverage). Chose matte products for your eyes, lips and cheeks for their timeless look and incredible staying power. If you have dry skin though be sure to use a hydrating primer and moisturiser 10 minutes before applying your makeup. A thin winged liner looks great for that extra vintage effect if you have the confidence for it. Your touch up bag for the day won't need to have too much since you've gone for matte products but you will definitely need a mini bottle of hair spray for and misbehaving flyways, blotting powder and your signature lippy.

 

Look C: The Glam Queen

You are always flawless and on your Wedding day everything must be on point. Your hair should be glamorous, shiny and have lots of volume. Weather you opt for your hair down in big soft, defined curls or a big sleek romantic up do it must be able to last all day so use lots of long lasting styling products and always have a bridesmaid with hair spray on hand. Your makeup should be flawless and dramatic. Go for a full coverage matte foundation (unless you really can't handle full coverage). Shimmery or glittery shadows will look amazing on your eyes and make sure you choose individual volume lashes to really draw attention to those eyes. Contouring and highlighting will really bring out your bone structure and will look great in photos (just make sure theres no harsh lines). Your touch up bag will need to include, blotting powder, hair spray, extra bobby pins and your chosen lipstick for the day. 

 

Look D: The Natural Beauty

You love nature and are a romantic romantic at heart. You want to be true to yourself so stick to hair and makeup that just enhances your natural beauty. For your foundation stick to a sheer coverage glowing foundation nothing too heavy or matte. Your eyes will look best with soft matte of satin nude tones with some fluffy individual lashes and a hint of darkness at your lash line to make your eyes stand out without having to wear much makeup at all. Go for a hint of blush and bronzer for a natural glow and pair with a tinted lip balm or a hydrating lipstick. You won't like having to touch up during the day so all you need is blotting paper and your chosen lip balm or lipstick to touch up after eating and drinking. 

 

Look E: Modern Edge

You're always on trend so why would your wedding day be any different? Your hair should be soft and effortless. Either all down with textured curls or in a high messy bun. For your foundation choose a medium to full coverage satin foundation for your base. Make sure to have a beautiful glowing highlighter and rich contour for a beautiful base. Fill in your brows and go for a highly pigmented shimmery shadow for your eyes or a bold lip (not both). Your touch up bag will need to include, blotting powder, and your chosen lipstick for the day

By Sophie Tucker and Luke Ellery

Lash and Brow Extensions

By SOPHIE TUCKER

I have only had lash extensions once before and it was far from glamorous. I got them done in Bangkok at the start of my Holiday to feel pretty without any makeup but was left with plastic, clumpy, scratchy, ugly lashes. Which was not what I had in mind. I had heard a lot of horror stories about them being done by dodgy technicians and have had a lot of my clients come to me with terrible experiences asking where do I recommend, so I went on a hunt to see if I could find somewhere good. I was super nervous to give eyelash extensions another go so made sure this time to do lots of research. I heard great recommendations about Jayde from Sydney Lashes and once we met and discussed her safety procedures and products I felt assured that I had come to the right place.

With over a 100 different types of lashes to choose from I let Jayde design a custom set for me as I wanted both thickness and curl. To achieve this Jayde used classic silk lashes combined with the latest innovation in the lash world; volume lashes (aka 3D lashes). They are soft, lightweight, natural looking and totally gorgeous.

To complete the look I also tried eyebrow extensions. This was something I had never even heard about before and I have to admit that my brows are generally pretty good but these made them perfect. They filled in a few little gaps that were patchy and gave my brows more definition. Unlike the lashes it's probably not something I would get done every two weeks but definitely for a special occasion. It would be a great idea for anyone who has over plucked or has patchy areas like me, or if you are wanting a fuller brow look.



So far I love my lashes and am totally hooked. I love knowing that with these new lightweight lashes I'm not damaging my own at all and can just wake up in the morning and feel beautiful. Make sure to research well before getting extensions done and get a trial with your chosen technitian at least a month before your Wedding to see how they go. You can have your cake and eat it too ;-)

Bridal Beauty Timeline →

By SOPHIE TUCKER and LYDIA MARTIN

You’ve booked the venue, chosen your photographer & found the perfect dress – so what’s next? It’s probably time to start looking for your hair stylist & makeup artist and create a beauty schedule you can stick to. We have put together a comprehensive bridal beauty timeline that will give you a good idea of what to do and when. While all the items on this timeline are optional (remember – we are all unique!), most of us want to look our absolute best before getting married. So grab your diary and start scheduling!

Hair and Makeup by Lipstick and Co

 

8 Months before the Big Day

We would seriously recommend that you avoid crash dieting before your wedding. Start a fitness and nutrition plan now and you will be sure to look healthy and glowing on the big day. Eight months out is also a good time to start taking multivitamin and/or beauty supplements to increase your energy and make your skin glow.

If you’re thinking about a new hairstyle or colour for your wedding day, get the first cut and colour now. If you’re not after a dramatic change, it’s a great idea to add highlights in your hair to give it some dimension. Get this sorted now – if there’s a disaster you’ll still have plenty of time to fix it!

Hair and Makeup by Lipstick and Co

 

6 Months Out

If you don’t already have a regime in place it’s time to start taking care of your skin with a good cleansing and nourishing routine. Cleanse, tone, target, and moisturize every morning and night! Don’t forget to exfoliate two or three times a week, and use eye cream every day to keep those puffy dark eyes at bay. If your budget allows, then start having monthly peels or facials. Following these steps will give you a flawless complexion for your wedding day.

Six months out you should also begin researching the different hair and makeup providers in your region. Contact all the ones who suit your style to see if they're available for your wedding date. Once you have decided on your favorite, book them and immediately set up appointments for your wedding day and trial. Its best to do your trial 1 month before the wedding, this way your hair will be a similar length and you should have a pretty good idea of the style you want.

Hair and Makeup by Lipstick and Co

 

3 Months until the Wedding

Get your brows professionally done so that you have the perfect shape to frame your face. Book another appointment for the weekbefore the wedding.

Visit your dentist to get your teeth whitened or start an at home teeth whitening routine. It’s best to go do this now so they aren’t too sensitive on your wedding day.

If you’re going to get a spray tan, book one in now for a test run. If you’d rather use a gradual tanning moisturizer, start incorporating it into your daily skin routine now. And, of course, make sure you wear lots of sun block when outdoors to avoid those awkward tan lines.

2 Weeks Away

Have your hair trimmed and a touch up done to your colour. This will allow time for it to settle while still looking fresh.

Think about what nail color you'll wear and book an appointment at a nail salon. We recommend that you buy your colour just in case the salon you go to doesn't have it in stock on the day.

Hair and Makeup by Lipstick and Co

 

The Week before the Wedding

Have your final pre-wedding facial, peel, etc... But only have one this close to the wedding if you've been doing it regularly and you know it will not cause irritation. You don't want to be dealing with a rash or breakout this close to the wedding!

Get your brows professionally shaped again. Pluck any stray hairs yourself in the days leading up to the wedding.

Do a deep-conditioning treatment at the salon or your home for softer, shinier hair.

If you’re planning on having professional waxing done, now is the time – you don’t want to have any last minute skin irritations.

The Day Before

Go get your spray tan done. Don't spray tan the morning of the wedding as it looks best a day old and you don’t want the colour to rub off on your dress!

It’s also time to enjoy your manicure and pedicure. A lot of mobile makeup companies can come to you the night before to do them. You and your bridesmaids could have a fun girly pamper session!

Remember to drink lots of water to help keep your skin hydrated, clear and glowing.

Hair and Makeup by Lipstick and Co

 

On Your Wedding Day

Wear a robe or button-up shirt while getting your hair and makeup done so that it can be easily removed without spoiling or getting caught on anything. And now you’re ready to go and have the most amazing time with the love of your life, close friends, and family. Perfect!