Article by Johanna Osborne

What happens when a wedding planner gets married? In our own Paula Bevege’s case, the answer is exactly what you’d expect. Namely, a fairytale extravaganza that has to be seen to be believed. And I was among the lucky chosen ones to attend her magical day.

It’s true a picture speaks a thousand words, and in this case that’s no exception. The photos document a day of exquisite taste, fine details, small touches, big impact and massive emotion. It was a day of enormous happiness, heartfelt laughs and genuine excitement. Everyone that took part shared in the abundant amounts of love and joy of this once in a lifetime celebration.

As Wellington’s most popular event planner, Paula Bevege has organised more weddings and swanky parties than you can imagine. So she not only knows what works, but what it was that would work for her and her groom specifically. Paula’s wedding ended up being so incredibly unique and full of thoughtful touches, that it would be almost impossible to imitate in its entirety.

It’s fair to say that the day Paula Bevege and Blair O’Neill got married they truly pulled out all the stops. Wellington’s beautiful landmark The Opera House hosted both the ceremony and reception. Palm trees, gorgeous flowers and stunning decorations transformed the venue into a true dream wedding site. Paula was accompanied by the most gorgeous flower girls ever, her precious daughter amongst them. All were dressed in handmade frocks (created by the bride and her mother) with crochet merino boleros. The magnificent blooms were provided by the bride’s sister, Katie Bevege, a well established and highly skilled florist.

Paula looked simply breathtaking in a divine French pink lace design by Alison Blain, who sourced the fabric especially on a trip to Sydney. Most noticeable – the blush colour of Paula’s gown, and the fact that Paula was on the forefront of fashion with this selection, being one of the first brides to go pink… with many more to follow suit. Blair was dressed by Frank Casey, and made a very handsome groom. Amber Jane Bain captured all the divine photos of happy couple, as well their large, close knit family, who all played a special part on this important day.

One of the highlights of the entire event was after the heartfelt service, when all the guests were ushered into the reception hall. The entire stage of the Opera House had been transformed into what could only be described as a regal banquet scene of the utmost elegance. It was a true spectacle and a treat for the senses. The lighting was like something I’d never seen before. Adrian from Backlight was the master of illusion responsible for magically making the most stunning chandeliers appear above the long elegant tables, and creating an unbelievably romantic ambience throughout the evening. The Mission Choir joined us for a surprise performance prior to dinner, which made for an incredible impact. Nosh served up the mouth-watering food, and grand piano music accompanied us through our delicious meals. After the beautiful speeches, the guests were guided into a dessert lounge, which was like stepping into an ueber-cool Parisian jazz lounge circa 1940. With desserts beautifully displayed and Shaken not Stirred performing for all the impressed guests, this evening just couldn’t get any better. But then again, what did we expect? The master of event planning truly outdid herself this time!

“Remember tonight, for it is the beginning of always.” – Dante Alighieri (1265-1321) Italian Epic Poet & Philosopher