Matt & Jody get married: Boathouse Nelson Wedding

Matt and Jody’s Boathouse Nelson wedding was the perfect example of how meaningful and joyful a wedding can be when a couple truly knows who they are and what matters most to them. This was Matt and Jody’s second wedding, and it showed in the best possible way! It was calm, intentional, and deeply centred on family.

Held in late December, their summer wedding day unfolded under bright blue skies and warm sunshine. Guests gathered on the Boathouse balcony overlooking the harbour for an afternoon ceremony that felt relaxed and heartfelt from the very beginning. With around 75 guests, the day struck that sweet spot between intimate and celebratory. So many laughs were had (including when Matt almost dropped Jody’s ring into the ocean - whoops!) but their vows were utterly sincere. 

Matt and Jody’s vibe as a couple is low-key, joyful, and quietly fun. There was no rush, no pressure, and no unnecessary fuss. This day was about two people completely comfortable with one another. Their vows reflected that beautifully: simple, honest, and full of meaning, leaving not many dry eyes among their closest friends and family.

One of the most special parts of this Boathouse Nelson wedding was how intentionally they involved their teenage children. This wasn’t just about Matt and Jody, it was about two families coming together. Matt’s son Harry stole the show as best man with a hilariously memorable speech, while Matt’s daughter added an incredibly personal touch by making the wedding cake herself.

The reception inside The Boathouse carried that same relaxed, coastal energy. With sunlight streaming through the windows and the harbour just outside, the space felt warm and welcoming. It had the vibes of a backyard BBQ than a traditional wedding - and I mean that as an enormous compliment. As the heat of the day softened into evening, we slipped away to the nearby boat ramp for sunset photos, capturing quiet moments between Matt and Jody against the glowing sky.

What I loved most about photographing this Boathouse Nelson wedding was how openly Matt and Jody showed their love for one another. There were constant glances, easy affection, and an obvious excitement to be married. I managed to get a few sneaky photos of them being cute throughout the day! This wedding was a beautiful reminder that weddings don’t have to be big or complicated to be powerful.

Matt and Jody’s wedding day was about love that’s grown, families blending, and choosing joy, and The Boathouse Nelson was the perfect place for it!