Family wedding comes to Violet at Raffles aged care

A small wedding has had a huge impact on the community at Raffles aged care in Tweed Heads.

When Bride Martiné and Groom Stefan began planning their wedding in Auckland, New Zealand they knew that no ceremony would be complete without the presence of Martiné’s beloved grandmother and Raffles resident Violet.

To make Martiné’s dream come true, the team at the home agreed to host a small wedding on site.

Martiné, Stefan and their families flew over from New Zealand for the ceremony while unbeknownst to Violet the grand plans continued.

Preparations unfolded in the background thanks to Care Champions Leanne and Shelley who decorated the gardens and courtyard for the special event.

Martiné said she considers the Gold Coast a second home and being able to bring the wedding to her grandmother - rather than the other way around - meant the world to them.

“The care, love and support from staff and residents was beyond what words can describe,” she said.

“We were speechless with Raffles allowing us to have the event on the premises, and the level of detail that was put into making the event special.”

“They treat us like family, and always make us feel welcome. I have always been very close to my grandparents, so for us to share the occasion with her and make those memories was perfect.”

The day was indeed special for Violet who kept commenting on how lovely her “little Martiné” looked all grown up, and how the China teacups, saucers, and table set up reminded her of events she attended in her younger years in England.

“I still can't believe I went to my granddaughters wedding and watched her get married,” Violet remarked.

“I said to the nurse, it felt like I was dreaming, and she said 'no it was real',” she laughed.

“Grandma recognised that my bouquet was similar to the one from my mother's wedding,” Martiné explained.

“My "something borrowed" was to have the same-coloured orchids in my bouquet as mum did at her wedding. I had a wrist garland made for grandma with this flower too.”

Mother of the bride Vi explained that having the wedding at Raffles meant that Violet was not only surrounded by her loved ones, but by her extended Raffles family too.

"Raffles is mum's home away from home and the community there is mum's extended family,” she said.

“In all my life, no-one has ever-ever been so genuinely kind and supportive to myself and my family. I cannot stop telling people about what the Raffles team have done for us, people cannot believe it back home in New Zealand.”

Raffles Care Champion Leanne said that it was an absolute privilege to be part of such a special occasion.

“This is what life is all about! To enable the family to come together, share such a special event and create this amazing memory one I'm sure they will cherish forever.”