Ian & Karen — A Golden-Hour Wedding at Stoneridge Estate

Some weddings you feel before you've even lifted the camera. Ian & Karen's was one of them, a still, golden afternoon on the outskirts of Queenstown, through the rollings hills, turning amber as the light dropped, and two people entirely at ease in the middle of it all.

The happy couple met in high school, however international travel distanced the pair in early stages of their courtship. Through Ian's perserverance they managed to go on a first date once Karen returned to Australia. After getting to know each other a little better, Ian was certain, this was the one. Having travelled the world together, they chose Queenstown as their final wedding destination attracting friends and family from all over the world. A stunning location, surrounded by loved ones; they tied the knot.

The setting

Stoneridge Estate — a boutique vineyard on the shores of Lake Hayes, twenty minutes from Queenstown — is a place where few backdrops on earth compare: the lake mirror-still, the hills gold, and that particular Queenstown light that makes everything look painted. If you're dreaming of something similar, my guide to getting married in Queenstown walks through the best venues and seasons.

Getting ready

The morning was unhurried. Karen and her bridesmaids rose early to prepare hair and makeup, while Ian and his groomsmen popped the bubbles early and soaked up the morning. There's something I love about these quiet in-between moments before a wedding begins, they're where the day's real feeling live.

The ceremony

The ceremony was held in a small flower dappled acreage only a few miles up the road. It was a beautiful moment in time, as Karen's elegance and beauty radiated through the space. Even the setting seemed to hold its breath.

Golden hour

Then came my favourite part of any Queenstown wedding — the last hour of light. We slipped away for a few quiet minutes, just the two of them, and Central Otago did what it does best: turned the whole valley gold and wrapped Ian & Karen in it.

The celebration

Back with everyone, the evening unfolded the way the best ones do, warm speeches that caught a few people off guard, long tables, good New Zealand wine, and laughter that ran late into the night. Ian's mother's speech was in particularly memorable, as you could feel the pride she felt in her son's accomplishments in every word. From humble beginnings as they were.

See the full gallery

Words only go so far. See the full gallery from Ian & Karen's wedding for the whole story in pictures.

Photographing a Queenstown wedding

Days like this are why I travel for weddings. If you're planning your own celebration in the region, see more of my work across New Zealand and the wider portfolio — or start a conversation and tell me about your day.

The team

• Venue — Stoneridge Estate
• Photography — William Lloyd