Aesha Scott, star of Below Deck Mediterranean, celebrated her marriage to Scott Dobson in a picturesque ceremony in Tauranga, New Zealand, on Saturday, March 7. The couple, who met in high school and later rekindled their romance nearly a decade after graduation, hosted 130 attendees, including notable friends from the world of reality television.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/aesha-scott-scott-dobson-wedding-1-031126-6da614d7f3ce457d80747d3666fa17b0.jpg)
Their wedding was held at Ōmahanui, a scenic two-acre property that boasts lush gardens and magnificent natural landscapes, providing a stunning backdrop for their special day. Aesha shared that while they initially envisioned a beach wedding further north, they opted for their hometown to allow local friends to join and offer a chance for international guests to experience the beauty of New Zealand.
Reflecting on their decision, Aesha expressed that having friends from around the world meet her family and witness her roots was an emotional aspect of the celebration. “I knew looking around and seeing their faces would be so strange in the most beautiful way ever,” she said.
Aesha’s approach to wedding planning was distinctly hands-off. In her role as chief stew on luxury yachts, she is accustomed to meticulously planning events; however, she preferred a more relaxed experience for her wedding. “I always wanted a venue and vendors that take care of everything,” she explained, indicating her desire to enjoy the day without the stress of details.
The wedding festivities commenced with a welcome party at a local fishing club overlooking Mount Maunganui. Aesha noted that this helped break the ice among guests who may not have known each other well, creating a jubilant atmosphere for the big day ahead.
Ceremony officiation was entrusted to Scott’s sister, Brooke Dobson. Aesha’s steadfast rule for the event was a no-phone policy, ensuring that guests could be present and fully enjoy the moment without distractions. “That’s what a videographer is paid for — just be present and enjoy the moment,” Aesha explained.
The bride radiated elegance in a bespoke two-piece gown designed by Auckland-based LVR Bridal. Featuring a striking white corset top and a flowing bubble skirt, Aesha’s look was both timeless and personal. “I always knew I wanted something simple and elegant rather than something that is ‘on trend,’” she remarked, adding that a veil unexpectedly enhanced her ensemble.
For the reception, Aesha and Scott skipped the traditional wedding cake, instead opting for a selection of cookies and cupcakes, as they both preferred to forgo the usual dessert. Their culinary choices included a variety of family-style Thai dishes, a personal favourite of Aesha’s, who confessed to needing to be cautious not to spill on her dress while enjoying her beloved Pad Thai.
Their first dance as a married couple featured Shania Twain’s “You’re Still the One,” a song that resonated with their journey together. Aesha reflected on the lyrics that speak to the unpredictability of relationships but ultimately highlight resilience. “We’ve had a very unique relationship with how much I travel for work and how much time we spend apart, but look at us, we made it,” she noted.
As the wedding weekend concluded, the couple planned a low-key recovery session at a local bar before setting off for a mini-moon in Queensland, Australia. “This way, we can have a few days alone, soaking it in, and then carry on spending time with those who are still around,” Aesha explained.
For Aesha and Scott, growing their family is on the horizon, but they prioritise their careers at present. Aesha is experiencing a surge of opportunity in her professional life, while Scott is beginning his pilot’s licence. Aesha believes he will be an incredible father when the time comes, further emphasising the partnership’s strength.
Reflecting on the relationship, Aesha praised Scott’s adventurous spirit and kind heart, while also defining their mutual respect for independence. “He lets me go off and chase my dreams to their fullest, without any jealousy or possessiveness,” she shared, appreciating the balance they have created in their lives together.
As they embark on this new chapter, Aesha expressed her deep gratitude for marrying her beloved, excited for what the future holds for them as partners in both love and life.