Some couples are simply meant to find their way to Akarana, and Paul and Ainslee are definitely one of those couples.
After winning our 2025 Wedding Open Day competition, their journey to the big day wasn’t quite as straightforward as planned. With a couple of postponements along the way, there was a lot of anticipation building for the moment they could finally celebrate with their family and friends.
When the wedding day finally arrived, it was an absolute joy to have them here. From the moment they stepped through the doors, it was clear that Paul and Ainslee were the perfect couple to win our wedding prize, fun, full of personality, and ready to create a celebration that was uniquely theirs.
Their wedding followed a traditional format with a beautiful ceremony followed by a reception, but this couple certainly didn’t let tradition hold them back from having some fun.
They brought their own personality and sense of humour into every detail. Their “Bingo witness” for the signing of their marriage certificate had guests laughing, and their “find the rings under the chair” moment turned a usually serious part of the ceremony into an interactive and memorable experience for everyone involved.
And the fun didn’t stop there.
Guests were treated to an incredible cultural performance by the Tamaaru Dance Group, bringing energy, connection, and celebration into the room. The evening continued with a spectacular champagne tower, plenty of dancing, and a party that carried on well into the night.
One of the highlights that perfectly captured Paul and Ainslee’s personalities was their hilarious photo displayed on the billboard. It certainly caught the attention of many people onsite, with plenty of curious looks and the occasional “what the…?” – exactly the kind of reaction we imagine they were hoping for!
Their wedding was a wonderful reminder that while traditions are beautiful, weddings don’t have to follow a set formula. The best celebrations are the ones that reflect the people getting married, filled with laughter, meaningful moments, and a whole lot of fun.
Paul and Ainslee, thank you for choosing Akarana to be part of your story. We loved celebrating with you and your guests, and we couldn’t think of a more deserving couple to win our 2025 Wedding Open Day prize.
Here’s to a lifetime of laughter, adventures, and keeping things wonderfully you.
