Jacqui + Henk ≪3

Jacqui and Henk

Hera Bride Jacqui, glows in her Ariane Gown

"when I put the Ariane on for a second time - I burst into tears knowing that it was definitely my dress. I felt beautiful and confident in it."

I am Jacqui – I am 24 years old and a junior doctor at Auckland City Hospital and my husband Henk is 23 and a professional hip hop dancer and an artist.

My husband and I met when we were 16! My best friend moved to Henk’s school and introduced him as “the male version” of me! Nearly 8 years down the line that is definitely far from the truth – we are so different in many ways but love it that way! We got engaged last year in lake Como at Villa Balbiano – a famous location for the movie Starwars on May the 4th – which was entirely a coincidence. Having dated since high school, we had discussed getting married a long time ago and found our venue the “Tree Church” when we were just 17 years old. “
Jacqui + Henk ≪3
Jacqui + Henk ≪3
Jacqui + Henk ≪3
Jacqui + Henk ≪3

“When I went looking for a wedding dress, I never had a “princess gown’ in mind! However when I put the dress on, I felt like a real bride – in a dress I would only ever wear once! It was so snatching of my waist and flattering for my shape, but also comfortable and the “v” drop waist was something I hadn’t seen before!I was choosing between the Ariane gown and one from a different store but when I put the Ariane on for a second time – I burst into tears knowing that it was definitely my dress. I felt beautiful and confident in it.

Jacqui + Henk ≪3

“I think my tips for brides choosing dresses is to go in with an open mind and expect the unexpected when it comes to what you will or will not like! Take people with you whose opinions you value and people that know your own preferences and can read your emotions!”

Jacqui + Henk ≪3

“The first look with Henk was a very special part of our wedding day. We decided to do a first look and get photos before the ceremony so that we had more time to spend with our guests in the afternoon. We were both incredibly nervous in the morning and when we finally got to see each other it was like a wave of relief washed over us. There were happy tears and lots of hugs – basically overwhelmed that the day had finally arrived. From that moment on we were able to relax and enjoy the day.

Along the same lines, my first look with my Dad was also very special. As his oldest child and daughter, he saw me “officially” all grown up, ready to give me away to the new man who he is trusting in to protect and care for me for the rest of my life.”
Jacqui + Henk ≪3

“My experience with Hera Couture was amazing! The appointments felt personalised and intimate. We were able to try on a range of dresses and had ample time for modifications to be made to the dress as well as a full tutorial on how to wear it on the day!! Sounds silly but when you have a bustle etc you need instructions! I was also extremely grateful to have a veil consultation where we were able to create a custom veil for me that had a blusher so I could walk down the aisle with it covering my face like my mum had at her wedding.”

Jacqui + Henk ≪3

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