Central Hawke’s Bay Wedding at Backpaddock Lakes

What an incredible Central Hawke’s Bay wedding at Backpaddock Lakes, celebrating two amazing families coming together for such a warm, relaxed, and fun day! There was so much laughter, a few happy tears, great food, plenty of dancing, and the best down-to-earth energy from start to finish. Their first dance to Tennessee Whiskey was such a highlight! Days like this are exactly why I love wedding photography — the candid moments, the classic portraits, the in-between laughs, and all the little memories that feel completely real.

Engagement Shoot Before the Wedding

Before their big day, we did an engagement shoot together at Pourerere Beach which made such a difference! It gave them the chance to practise being in front of the camera, feel more relaxed, and learn a few simple tips for their wedding photos. This is one of the biggest reasons I love engagement sessions — especially for couples who feel a little awkward about photos or have a partner who “doesn’t love the camera.” By the time the wedding day arrives, it feels less like posing and more like hanging out together.

Review from the couple

“Charlotte was our wedding photographer and we cannot recommend her enough! She created such beautiful pictures that we can't wait to hang in our home. We got a perfect mix of candid shots and classic looks, and she really let us show our goofy side. Doing our engagement shoot with her was a game-changer too since it made us feel so much more relaxed for the big day and she gave us great tips to remember for our wedding photos. Best of all, her personality clicked instantly with my farmer husband. He rarely lets anyone take photos of him (let alone smile!), but Charlotte had him genuinely excited to get our wedding photos done! We are so thrilled with the sneak peaks she's sent through and can't wait to get the rest of our album back. Thank you so much, Charlotte!”

Planning a Hawke’s Bay Wedding?

If you’re planning a Wedding (anywhere in New Zealand, especially Hawkes Bay) and want relaxed, natural wedding photography that captures the real moments, the laughs, the love, and the people who matter most, I’d love to hear from you!

The Dream Team

Central Hawke’s Bay Wedding at Backpaddock Lakes | Mr & Mrs Stratton