The complete story is below as reiterated by one of Hollie’s very special friends, Kirsty. It is truly a privilege to be witness to a community of friends, families and businesses, who did all they possibly could to make this happen, displaying to us all, the very best of humanity.
Here is 31year old Hollie’s journey in Kirsty’s words:
“You may have heard of Hollie’s story if you are a Bream Bay local or Northlander or maybe you are lucky enough to have met Hollie in person and have her brighten your day! This beautiful women was diagnosed with stage 4 terminal breast cancer 16 months ago and has defied all odds!
Given a 6 months prognoses 16 months ago and recently a 2-3 week prognoses, a world pandemic, earthquakes & tsunamis Hollie made her dreams come true yesterday and married the love of her life Andy, surrounded by close friends and family here in Ruakaka.
This day could not have happened without all the exceptional people involved. Each and everyone of the vendors listed below and the extra people behind the scenes all deserve the biggest fist bump and recognition. Not one of them blinked an eye when asked to help with 7 DAYS NOTICE to make the day happen! And all of them went above and beyond.
Their kindness and humanity is a true testament to Hollie & Andy and their families. Hollies battle isn’t over yet but she has an amazing HUSBAND by her side!
Congratulations Mr & Mrs Welsh!!!!
Kia Kaha Hollie & Andy, I’m honoured to call you my dear friends! Thank you for allowing me the privilege of being your Wedding Coordinator/Photographer & Witness. I’ll be forever grateful xx”
Thank you to those who made this day possible:
Celebrant – Laura Thomson – Marriage Celebrant
Make up artist Katy Jane Makeup Artist
Gift box – Look Good Feel Better & Bare PR
Hair (wig) – Vinnie Ashton
MC – Luke bird
Korowai – Tracey Aramoana
Set up for ceremony and reception – Kylie Springfield, Cheers Wedding & Party Hire
Greenstones – made by Shane Kumar (gifted by Race 4 life)
Dress Alternations – Anne alterations
Food/Catering – Zak & Jess Olsen, Fat Boy BBQ & Hello Pickle
Food costs gifted by Barfoot & Thompson C/O Auckland racing
Drinks – 60 bottles wine gifted from Auckland racing and additional drinks gifted by Eagles nest
Flowers – Lisa Heenan, Wild Ivy Flowers and Gifts & Orange Tree Flower Farm
Photographer – Kirsty Halliday, Kirsty Joy Photography – Award Winning Fine Art Photographer
Cake – Kara Hansen
Videographer – Bailey Beddis, Beddis Films
Platter table – buttermeupnorthlandnz
Venue – Ken & Jan Halliday
Musician – Ben & Esme Kenobi
Photo booth – R&R Photobooth NZ gifted by Kirsty Le Coute
Eagles Nest Grace SolomonMcIntyre
