Former NZ Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern marries her long-time partner, Clarke Gayford, in a private ceremony that radiated love and joy. After five years of engagement, this power couple decided it was time to say “I do” in a beautiful celebration on January 13, 2024.
A Love Story That Prevailed
Let’s rewind a bit. Ardern and Gayford’s love story began back in 2014, blossoming into a beautiful family that includes their adorable five-year-old daughter, Neve. The road to matrimony had a few bumps, especially when their plans for a 2022 wedding got tangled up in New Zealand‘s strict Covid-19 restrictions.
From Parliament to the Altar
In a poignant moment during her farewell address in parliament, Ardern expressed her desire to marry Gayford, saying, “To Clarke, let’s finally get married.” This emotional declaration set the stage for a wedding filled with love and joy.
Details Straight from the Celebration
The ceremony unfolded at the picturesque Craggy Range Winery in Hawke’s Bay, North Island. Ardern radiated elegance in a custom-fitted ivory gown by Juliette Hogan, complemented by a cascading all-white bouquet. Gayford looked dashing in a classic black suit. The guest list included approximately 50 to 75 attendees, among them current New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins and opposition leader Chris Hipkins.
Family Ties and Sentimental Touches
Ardern and Gayford’s daughter, Neve, played a special role in the celebration, donning a white dress crafted from fabric sourced from her grandmother’s wedding gown. This touching detail added a familial and sentimental touch to the occasion.
Protestors Make Their Voices Heard
However, not all voices were celebratory. A handful of protestors gathered outside the venue, expressing dissent over Covid-19 vaccine mandates imposed by Ardern’s government. Social media captured glimpses of protest signs near the wedding gates, highlighting the ongoing debates surrounding public health measures.
Beyond the Political Limelight
Since concluding her premiership, Ardern has maintained a relatively low profile, with infrequent social media activity. Notably, she assumed a role as a trustee for Prince William’s Earthshot Prize in April 2023, attending the prestigious Earthshot Prize Awards Ceremony in Singapore on November 7, 2023.
Jacinda Ardern, former NZ Prime Minister, marries her partner in a celebration that’s more than just a headline. It’s a story of love conquering all, with personal touches, societal challenges, and a sprinkle of magic. As the couple embarks on this new chapter, we can’t help but feel the warmth of their celebration in our hearts. Cheers to love, laughter, and a lifetime of happiness for Jacinda and Clarke!
Lead image from Jacinda Ardern’s IG
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