Judy and Brad’s September elopement to Lake Quill wasn’t always planned that way! We had a beautiful afternoon for a First Look at Stoneridge Estate before jumping in the chopper for the main event. Such is spring and the relatively un-predictable behaviour of Mother Nature, we were en route to Lake Erskine when we flew over top and saw that she was still frozen solid. Given the alpine lake had been half defrosted by the same time last year, we knew it wasn’t a done deal so we headed on to our plan B location – Lake Quill! Pretty incredible for a “Plan B,” we think!!
Arriving to Lake Quill is always super special, with the utterly impressive Sutherland Falls precipitating the secluded and serene alpine lake that is guarded by towering peaks on every side. With the gorgeous viewpoint back down the lake to even more mountain tops – symmetric ones, just to please the eye, it’s a show stopper. We cracked into a ceremony complete with belly laughs, heartfelt words and tears, all thanks to our friend Philippa, before become infatuated with the cheeky Kea that were trying to nab Judy’s flowers, fur coat, champagne flutes…you name it, they were eyeing it up! With two very ready-for-adventure newly-weds, we hiked up the dress and scaled a few rocks to take in the scenery and share a few quiet moments appreciating the world around us. That is…before the departure from Lake Quill, over Sutherland Falls, where the entire helicopter all but erupted with a few yells and shouts as we descended over the waterfall!
After Lake Quill, we headed to a second landing at Earnslaw Burn. While the waterfall isn’t as full in early spring, the glacier is at its best thanks to the topping of snow, plus the textures and tones of the valley are totally beautiful. The champagne was finished off, the paperwork signed and plenty of lovin’ and adventuring was had before we hopping the chopper to head back to civilisation.
A big congratulations again, Judy and Brad! We had such an amazing day celebrating with you both! Thanks for being up for anything and so madly in love! Wishing you and your sweet family all the best for your futures – lots of love, joy and adventures xx
Our Team
Thank you to our amazing team of Queenstown wedding suppliers that helped to create Judy and Brad’s Lake Quill elopement 🙂
Celebrant – Philippa Thomas
Hair – Beautiful Bridal Hair
Makeup – Eve Makeup Artistry
Flowers – Orange Blossom Designs
Helicopter – Heliworks
Accommodation – Stoneridge Estate
Photography by us – Williams Photography
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