Cushla and Andrew’s Balcony Wedding in Titirangi |Auckland

Some love stories don’t need much explaining — they just fall into place. For Cushla and Andrew, it was that way from the start. Introduced through mutual friends nearly seven years ago, they quickly realised they were perfect complements. Andrew is the calm anchor when life gets stressful, while Cushla is the planner who keeps everything moving. Together, they’ve always known they had found “their person,” but when it came to marriage, it wasn’t about formality or tradition. They simply wanted an excuse to throw a party with the people they love most.

A Non-Traditional First Look

The day began with a first look at Titirangi Beach on Aydon Road, a peaceful setting where the anticipation and excitement of the day truly came to life. Cushla looked incredible in a striking red dress — bold, unique, and completely her own — while Andrew’s green suit was the perfect complement. Instead of following tradition, they chose colours and styles that reflected their personalities, setting the tone for a wedding that would be anything but ordinary.

A Balcony Ceremony & Celebration

After their portraits at the beach, Cushla and Andrew exchanged vows on the balcony of her parents’ home, an intimate setting that carried so much meaning. With no bridal party and no rigid traditions, the focus was entirely on their love and the people closest to them. Their ceremony was heartfelt but relaxed, the kind that flowed seamlessly into laughter, mingling, and a night of fun.

Cushla and Andrew described their wedding perfectly: a party with the people they love most, with the marriage itself being the opening act. It was simple, authentic, and filled with joy.

Capturing the Details

As their wedding photographer in Auckland, I felt lucky to document a day that was so refreshingly different. From the vibrant first look at Titirangi Beach to the intimate balcony ceremony and relaxed evening that followed, every moment reflected Cushla and Andrew’s personalities. Their wedding was proof that you don’t need tradition or grandeur for a celebration to be meaningful — you just need love, laughter, and your favourite people in one place.

Their wedding is a reminder that the most memorable celebrations are often the ones that break the mould. It’s these kinds of days that inspire me in my work as a wedding photographer in New Zealand — where no two weddings are alike, and every couple tells their story in their own way.

Celebrant: Laura Giddey | celebrantlauragiddey

Wedding dress: Online

Hair and Makeup Artist: Lauren from Beauty by Sophie