Our Love Story – Raina & Lachie

Like many modern love stories, ours began on Instagram. Lachie had seen me appear on his discovery page and decided to follow me. What started as a simple follow quickly turned into months of messaging, talking late into the night, and getting to know each other in a way that felt effortless. By the time we finally met in person on 11/11/23, it already felt like we had known each other forever. From that moment on, everything just fell into place, we fell deeply in love and have been together ever since.

At the beginning of the new year, I made the big move to Hamilton with my three children to start our life together. Our family grew even more when I fell pregnant with our daughter Koa. Not long after, Lachie proposed on 10/10/24. On that same day there was a breathtaking aurora lighting up the sky. It was one of those moments that felt completely magical, like the universe itself was celebrating our love.

Shortly after, I was tagged in an Instagram giveaway for a wedding in Kaikōura at the stunning Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses. I commented without thinking too much about it, never imagining that we would actually win. When we found out we had been chosen, it felt almost unbelievable…. like the beginning of a dream.

At the time, I was three months postpartum and, like many new mums, I wasn’t feeling entirely like myself yet. But everything changed when I walked into the bridal gallery. The moment I slipped into the dress, I felt confident, beautiful, and excited for the day ahead. Lachie was there through the whole process, and in the sweetest twist, he actually helped me choose my dress.

The dress was truly unforgettable. It was timeless and elegant, with a softness that made it feel effortlessly romantic. The fabric moved beautifully and felt incredibly comfortable, something that was really important to me in this season of life. It was also practical enough to allow for breastfeeding if needed, which made it feel even more perfect. When I looked in the mirror, I finally felt like a bride.

Our wedding day was everything we had hoped for, intimate, emotional, and full of love. Surrounded by just 12 of our closest family and friends, including our children, we celebrated in the most meaningful way. It rained throughout the day, but instead of taking away from the moment, it made everything feel even more magical. The misty skies and soft rain created the most romantic atmosphere, and the photos captured something truly special.

Later during the school holidays, we had the chance to return to Kaikōura and capture another bridal shoot high in the mountains. Standing there together, surrounded by such breathtaking scenery, felt like reliving the magic of our wedding day all over again.

From a chance Instagram follow to building a life and family together, our journey has been full of beautiful surprises. Winning our wedding felt like fate but marrying Lachie, surrounded by the people we love most, was the greatest gift of all.