NZ Weddings Magazine Issue 77 Flipbook PDF

NZ Weddings Magazine Issue 77
Author:  N

120 downloads 167 Views 137MB Size

Recommend Stories


The Prodir Magazine Issue 03, Focus: Please touch!
en: The Prodir Magazine Issue 03, 2016 . ... . ..... . ....... Focus: Please touch! www.prodir.com open gender 26 Women have a finer sense o

Magazine Institucional
Magazine Institucional Agosto 2013 Laboratorios LAFEDAR Magazine Institucional INDICE 3 04 Editorial 06 Novedades 06 Lanzamiento tecnicatura 10

Magazine Institucional
Magazine Institucional Enero 2015 Laboratorios LAFEDAR Magazine Institucional INDICE 3 04 Editorial 06 06 08 10 Destacados Premio Senado de la

Story Transcript

Lara and David at their beautiful Auckland wedding. Page 18.

2021 ISSUE 77 $14.50

9 413000 052244

Modern Love

Enjoy together

Samoa was made for sharing your happiness. Wake up and share a tranquil stroll along the beach before breakfast; or take a morning dip and soak up the sun on one of the pristine white beaches at your doorstep. Find uninterrupted romance in Beautiful Samoa.

Find Beautiful WWW.samoa.travel

Photography Rachel from Two Little Starfish Hair and Make Up Chanelle Van T Veen Model Helena Turner 62 Model Management

vinkadesign.co.nz

P RO U D LY H A N D M A D E

IN NEW ZEALAND

REAL WEDDINGS

18 Lara & David

24 Poppy & Cameron

28 Morgan & Oliver

34 Jacqui & Glen

38 Stephanie & Nicholas

44 Shama & Saeed

64

Issue 77, 2021

48 Isabel & Tourley

UP FRONT

54

10

Rebecca & Alex

New + Noteworthy The latest we love

58 Elyse & Benjamin

10

64 Katelynn & Kymberlee

70 Martha & Manasa

76 Lucy & Gerard

82 Shannon & Brett

86

14

Lisa & Dan

Win a Wedding in Samoa

92

Your dream destination

Olivia & Steven

COVER COUPLE

Lara and David at their Auckland wedding, page 18. Photography by Jesse and Jessie Weddings.

14 92 n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z | 03

HONEYMOON

146 Extraordinary Honeymoon Experiences in Queensland

146

98 FASHION

BEAUTY + WELLBEING

98

118

Civic Beauty

Gua Sha

Our latest fashion shoot

Facial Stones

DESTINATIONS

150 Taupo

featuring an amazing gown collection

113

The heart of Aotearoa

120

New Zealand’s beautiful

Create Your

North Island

Desired Look

Stunning New Bridal Showroom

152 122 Plump, Smooth and

114

Hydrate Your Skin

How to Make the Dress Fit YOU

Matakana

122

The region creates a spectacular backdrop to every wedding

124 Nail Do’s and Dont’s

116

PLANNING

154 Northland

Good Finds for Fashion

125

130

Natural wonders and

Accessories for your

Good Finds for Beauty

Fantastic Wedding Venue

contrasting coastlines

big day

The latest and greatest

120

126 Bridal Detox to Feel Your Best

127 Spring Time Tips for Extra Energy

128

131

Queenstown

A Stag Do

Boasting breath-taking

134 Behind The Scenes Interesting bridal insights

135 Wine For Your

views all year round

158 Cook Islands Peace in Paradise

Celebration

162

Lotions, potions and more

142

Your untouched

for optimum help in health

Dream Gift Registry

paradise awaits

Good finds for wellbeing

04 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

156

Tips For Planning

Samoa

WWW.MODES.CO.NZ

E V E N T W E A R

&

B R I D A L

NEW ARRIVALS

COUTURE COLLECTION

MINIMAL OR DETAILED

Breathtaking new designs and unique shapes to flatter your figure

Hot off the runways in Europe! You'll find the most exclusive styles, only at Modes.

No matter your taste, size or budget, we have something you'll love!

160 BROADWAY, NEWMARKET 09 520 2370

26 MCCOLL STREET, NEWMARKET 09 520 6070

CELEBRATE YOUR LOVE at the water’s edge Wānaka’s only lakefront all-inclusive wedding venue Our unique lakefront location with spectacular mountain views, and a spacious and natural backdrop provide the perfect setting for your special day. Be whisked away to the majestic mountain tops from our on-site helicopter pad, then celebrate with your loved ones in our restaurant and bar. Finish your special day in our lakefront Honeymoon Suite. Our professional wedding team are on hand to create the wedding of your dreams. Contact us to find out more about our all-inclusive elopement and wedding packages.

Publishers & Editors Tania Ogilvie Lance Blackbourn Website/Social Media Catherine Hayes [email protected] Contributors Josie Steenhart, Yvonne Kerr, Ruth Carpenter, Jess Wharton, Trish Peng, Kevin Townsend, Jenny Good, Erin O’Hara, Anita Gatley, Tamsin George, Gina Brumby, Rebecca Dieudonnie, Lara Boddington Advertising Tania Ogilvie 021 53 55 54 [email protected] Lance Blackbourn 021 890 978 [email protected] Julian Bishop 022 319 0092 [email protected] Yvonne Kerr [email protected] New Zealand Weddings Magazine PO Box 360, Mangawhai 0540 To subscribe or for any subscription queries email [email protected] Distribution Ovato Designer Alisha Kumar

New Zealand Weddings is published quarterly and subject to copyright in its entirety. The contents may not be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the publishers. All material sent to New Zealand Weddings (including emails) will be assumed to be publishable unless marked ‘not for publication’. For content submissions or collaborations, please email us directly at [email protected]. New Zealand Weddings is printed on Sumo offset stock from BJ Ball using FSC-MIX source pulp from well-managed forests and other controlled sources.

03 443 0017 [email protected] www.edgewater.co.nz

255 BROADWAY NEWMARKET AUCKLAND 1023 0800 537742 | @JESSICABRIDALCOUTURE www.jessicabridal.co.nz

Real Weddings Poppy and Cameron at their Whenuapai wedding, page 24

Hello, Welcome to our spring issue and congratulations to all those new couples recently engaged. It is great to hear and see so many positive stories from couples who have found their everlasting love in these challenging times. In this issue we feature fifteen truly inspirational Real Weddings, including one couple who got their dream destination wedding in the Cook Islands at the stunning Muri Beach Club Hotel. Our bridal fashion shoot in this issue was taken at the amazing Civic Theatre in central Auckland City. This majestic theatre is one of those unique venues that you may dream of but do not actually realise that yes you can get married, have your photographs and reception here. With several hotels nearby including the Airedale Boutique Suites you and your quests are easily accommodated. With talk of the borders opening early 2022, we have received hundreds of entries for our ‘Win A Wedding in Samoa’ competition. The competition is open till Tuesday 30th November 2021, so there is still plenty of time to enter and you could be the lucky couple that wins this amazing prize. On a happier note our friend and wedding photographer Rachel Jordan who was injured in the helicopter crash earlier this year, has returned home. Her recovery will be a slow progress, but she is determined to get back on her feet. We have the utmost admiration for Rachel and we look forward to her getting behind the lens once again. So please sit back and enjoy this issue and continue planning your wedding & honeymoon and make it a lifetime memory for you and your partner.

e c n a L & a i Tan TANIA & LANCE Publishers and Editors

08 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

Real Weddings Martha and Manasa at their Christchurch wedding, page 70

JOIN US!

FOLLOW US ON: facebook.com/nzweddings @newzealandweddings pinterest.com/nzweddings SUBMIT YOUR WEDDING TO OUR MAGAZINE: Email [email protected] and include your wedding pictures and a bit about your big day.

trishpeng.com | @trishpeng

Gracie Taylor-Hitchcock & Ali Hitchcock photographed by Sapphire Studios

NEW &

Noteworthy WEDDING INFORMATION AND INSPIRATION TO CHECK OUT THIS WINTER

1012 Scenic Drive North tuihills.co.nz

Juicy Skin KNOWN FOR ITS RANGE OF MARKET-LEADING PREMIUM MARINE COLLAGEN AND PLANT-BASED SUPPLEMENTS, INNOVATIVE KIWI COMPANY JEUNEORA TOOK THE BEAUTY INDUSTRY BY STORM WITH THE LAUNCH OF ITS SKINCARE RANGE EARLIER THIS YEAR, AND THEY’VE RECENTLY ADDED EXCITING NEW PRODUCTS TO THE RANGE INCLUDING THE JUICY BRIGHTENING BOOSTER DOUBLE-ACTION VITAMIN C SERUM (RRP$55). JEUNEORA.CO.NZ

UP FRONT

Express Tan

The days leading up to your dream day are likely to be busy, so Bondi Sands have kept things fast with the new 1-Hour Express self-tanning foam (RRP$27). This foolproof mousse works its magic in as little as half an hour for a light tan, or leave on for up to three for the darkest result. bondisands.com.au

Queen Charlotte

Rosé To The Occasion Nothing says warm-weather celebrations like a glass of rosé, and the wine maestros at Leftfield have seriously come up with the goods with a unique mix of merlot, pinot noir and arneis grapes bringing together aromas of fresh strawberry and raspberry and tart cranberry for a subtle sweetness with juicy acidity. Stunning alongside summer-wedding faves like seared salmon, charcuterie and soft cheeses or blend with brandy, sugar syrup and citrus fruits for a sensational sangria. RRP$18. leftfieldwines.com

One of the most major beauty releases New Zealand has seen in recent years, cult brand Charlotte Tilbury has finally dropped at Mecca. While basically every product in the range is a cult classic, products such as the beloved Brit makeup artist’s Magic Cream moisturiser, Airbrush Flawless foundation and classic nude lipstick shade Pillow Talk are among the ultimate must-haves. meccabeauty.co.nz

HAIR DOMINATION

A trusted mainstay on Kiwi shelves for 21 years, Dominate was founded in the back of a barbershop by two friends who shared a sense of frustration over men's hair products that were overpriced, poor quality and full of harmful ingredients. Using traditional beeswax, a converted washing machine drum and a wooden spoon borrowed from the café next door, the very first batch of Dominate hair wax was made. More than two decades on, it still proudly sits as New Zealand’s #1 men’s styling brand. To mark the milestone, Dominate has relaunched its new and improved product range (RRP$13 each) with redesigned premium packaging and more powerful and natural ingredients to suit every styling need. dominatehair.com

n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z | 11

Hop to it Bad Rabbit, Auckland’s newest event drinks company, is very good when it comes to providing beverages for your big day. Use their clever online calculator to figure out exactly what you’ll need then organise all your drinkies in one click with their handy packages, tailor with add-ons, then sit back and relax. They’ll deliver your order perfectly chilled (except the red wine of course) for free and also do glassware hire should you need it. badrabbit.co.nz

Brow Power

Dreaming of full, fluffy brows for your big day? OFF&ON’s sought-after Brow Lift ($85 including brow colour) works by resetting the brows into a straighter, more uniform position to allow more flexibility in styling your brows. Extra bonus: a Brow Lift typically lasts six to eight weeks depending on your lifestyle, so will easily cover the hen’s do all the way through to the wedding! offandon.co.nz

12 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

OLFACTORY ESCAPE Though we might not be escaping to as many gorgeous tropical islands as we’d like right now, the next best thing is a spray of Versace’s latest fragrance, Dylan Turquoise (from RRP$99), with top notes of mandarin essence, lemon and pink pepper and a centre of jasmine, blackcurrant and freesia, completed by a cocktail of vibrant woods and white musk.

The Giftery

Wedding gifting can be fraught with issues for both the giver and the receiver. To solve the issue, The Giftery – where the giver digitally chooses a selection of gift options to ‘give’, and the receiver picks the one they like best (or something else entirely from the site) – was born. Better yet, a portion of The Giftery’s sales go directly to the Cambodia Charitable Trust. thegiftery.co.nz

MADISON ROSE BRIDAL 027 499 1155 madisonrosebridal.co.nz

TH

PM

ES I TR N E

E S O CL

3

R BE EM V NO

30

WIN a wedding in Samoa! Just engaged? Take your vows at this stunning pacific island resort. Enter today!

Imagine the scent of frangipani, the sound of the sea lapping onto the beach and the sun setting over the horizon… The most magical of locations, marriage is a scared union that is honoured and respected. THIS AMAZING PRIZE INCLUDES

BE IN TO WIN A WEDDING IN SAMOA!

F Return economy tickets for two people and a romantic wedding at Taumeasina Island Resort in Samoa The Ceremony F Ceremony set up in the garden or sunset wedding venue F Floral Arch F 2 traditional warriors F Minister of celebrant F Marriage License F Marriage Certificate F Apostolic Seal F Wedding gift F Garland for groom F Bride’s bouquet F Bride’s head lei F 1 bottle of Sparkling wine for couple toast

HOW TO ENTER 1. Complete entry form in full. 2. On a separate piece of paper, tell us in approximately 200 words why you or the couple you are nominating deserve to win this wedding in Samoa. 3. Enclose two or more photographs of the engaged couple with the entry form. Write their names on the back of each photograph. Please note the photographs you submit will not be returned.

SEND YOUR ENTRY TO

The Reception F Buffet or 3 course set menu for 10 people F 3 Sparkling wine during dinner service F 1 tier cake

New Zealand Weddings Magazine PO Box 28564, Remuera Auckland 1541 Or enter online at www.newzealandweddings.co.nz Entries close 30th November 2021. Please submit original entry forms only.

Accommodation for the bride and groom F 5 night’s accommodation in a Deluxe Oceanview Room at the amazing Taumeasina Island Resort F Private Pick up from the airport for 2 Adults F Welcome fruit platter and Sparkling Wine in the room upon arrival F Full buffet breakfast per person per day F 2 x 60 minute massage

I have read and agree to the terms and conditions at newzealandweddings.co.nz I agree to my email address passed onto associated sponsors

COUPLE’S NAMES

ADDRESS

EMAIL ADDRESS

PHONE NUMBER



Bridal & Menswear Central Otago @margaretwraybridal

COMING UP

18 Lara & David

24 Poppy & Cameron

28 Morgan & Oliver

34 Jacqui & Glen

38 Stephanie & Nicholas

44 Shama & Saeed

48 Isabel & Tourley

54 Rebecca & Alex

58 Elyse & Benjamin

64 Katelynn & Kymberlee

70 Martha & Manasa

76 Lucy & Gerard

82 Shannon & Brett

86 Lisa & Dan Lucy and Gerard and their beautiful Queenstown wedding, page 76.

92 Olivia & Steven

Photo KATE ROBERGE PHOTOGRAPHY

Lara and David 3 0.0 1 . 2 0 2 1

LARA SHASHA and DAVID GABRIAL incorporated traditional Iraqi elements into their special day and chose a clear marquee so they could dance the night away under the stars. Photography JESSE AND JESSIE WEDDINGS jesseandjessieweddings.com Gown TRISH PENG trishpeng.com Cake CAKE BY KRISTEN cakebykristen.co.nz Words compiled by YVONNE KERR

GA LLERY

n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z | 19

D

avid and I met through a mutual friend on a bus ride home in our early teens. Our culture is conservative when it comes to dating so we got to know each other by texting. Over the years, our relationship blossomed. We were lucky enough to experience a lot together; school balls, graduations, milestone birthdays and first jobs. I even taught David how to drive! Thirteen years later, and here we are, married. David started his career in Wellington, and we would travel to see each other frequently. One weekend David flew back to Auckland. We were following our usual routine: going out for coffee and finding a nice view where we would play scratch cards. We found a spot in Devonport, on Mt. Victoria. Little did I know, David had organised a special scratch card that gave me a match of three and the prize revealed the words; “will you marry me?”. David got down on one knee and proposed. He’d been planning the proposal for 18 months. We married almost two years later. We chose a summer wedding as we love the warmer weather and late sunsets. A clear marquee allowed our 150 guests to enjoy the beautiful surrounding landscape. Eating dinner under the sunset is an experience we’ll never forget. We had champagne and canapes in the courtyard on arrival. We took beautiful photos during golden hour and danced the night away under the stars and festoon lights. Our wedding theme was classic yet modern. We incorporated whites, neutrals and greenery as these are features we’ve both loved for years. We created the menus to reflect our cultural roots, with antipasti platters for the entrée of falafel, hummus, olives, koftas, tzatziki and more. Our wedding cake was three-tiered with two flavours, white chocolate and classic chocolate with raspberry and vanilla buttercream. For the music, we wanted to strike a balance between traditional

GA LLERY

n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z | 21

Arabic and popular music. We hired a DJ and incorporated a traditional Middle Eastern hand-drum called the ‘doumbek’ which was played by family and friends throughout the night. This really created an authentic Middle Eastern atmosphere. We danced our way into the marquee to upbeat Arabic music. Our guests joined us and lifted us up as they chanted “bossa”, which means kiss! Another traditional dance is the ‘dabke’ where our guests linked arms and stomped their feet as they sang and weaved around the tables. Our flowers included a combination of white gypsophila, roses, hydrangeas, orchids, dahlias and snapdragons. We loved the aesthetic of these flowers and that they symbolise grace, gratitude, virtue, elegance and eternal love. The dress code at Iraqi weddings is always black tie. With my love for fabrics, I designed my bespoke gown in partnership with Trish Peng focusing on luxury and the use of indulgent fabric. It had a contoured sweetheart bodice with a fit and flare silhouette and draped lace straps, plus detachable thin satin straps for dancing. My favourite detail was the sheer back detailing, which dipped into a low V shape to show off the two layers of floral lace, lending the dress a 3D look. The gown was finished with a satin waistband and a three-metre cathedral train with a blusher. I wore pearl drop earrings and put my hair in a slick high bun to keep the look fresh and clean. My maid of honour wore a champagnecoloured satin gown and my flower girl wore a princess-style kneelength dress. David wore a classic black fitted tuxedo and bow tie. We couldn’t have dreamed of a more perfect day. We travelled to Queenstown a few days later for a magical honeymoon week of wining and dining. “Fully immerse yourself and be present in the moment; your guests will feed off your energy and the memories you create will last a lifetime.” W

BUY & SELL NEW | SAMPLE | PRELOVED DRESSES

37 Mackelvie Street, Grey Lynn, Auckland 1021 (09) 888 0662 | @yourstrulybridalnz | yourstrulybridal.co.nz

Poppy and Cameron 0 5 .1 2 . 2 0 2 0

A romantic proposal under the Eiffel Tower in Paris was a dream come true for POPPY VAN LOGHEM who married CAMERON RAMSAY-GIBBONS in an elegant ceremony on a family property in Whenuapai. Photography STEPHAN & NAKITA stephanandnakita.com Gown JESSICA BRIDAL jessicabridal.co.nz Words compiled by YVONNE KERR

C

ameron and I met in 2012. We’ve both been competitive cheerleaders from a young age and met the year we were both placed on Team New Zealand. We’ve been competing on Team NZ together ever since! Cheerleading is our passion and we both coach and run competitions. Besides that, Cameron and I recognised early on how in synch we were. We share the same mindset, life goals and sense of humour. We sometimes joke that we are the same person! Cameron proposed in 2018, on our OE, under the Eiffel Tower in Paris. I had always hinted that a dream of mine was to be proposed to somewhere in Europe in summer; Cam nailed it! We couldn’t wait to get home to share the news with friends. We started to plan our wedding during the pandemic in 2020 and were lucky to have everything go ahead at Christmas. It was a risk that paid off. We married at our family home in Whenuapai, Auckland. I had a clear idea of the vibe I wanted to create; relaxed and minimal with an outdoors ‘winery’ feel. We went with a summer wedding but in December when the weather wasn’t too hot. I would consider the theme of our wedding to be minimalistic. We wanted to keep our decorations simple as the furniture and tableware we hired was so beautiful. Cameron and I have an obsession with the TV show Friends, so the theme tune played as we made our entrance for the

24 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

GA LLERY

n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z | 25

GA LLERY

reception! The whole bridal party danced too. We’re both foodies so having great food was important to us. Instead of a buffet, we arranged for sharing platters to be placed on every table, including three meat dishes along with multiple sides and salads. Dessert was a small wedding cake with mini cheesecakes, tarts, slices and more. We had 110 guests. I wanted white flowers to tie in with our neutral theme, and lots of greenery. For the music, we hired a DJ. We gave him a list of songs we like, and he created a playlist that matched our taste, plus songs that got everyone dancing! My dress had a detachable overskirt, which I loved as it created two different looks. My two bridesmaids wore simple white dresses, and the boys donned beige linen suits. The night before the wedding, I stayed in an amazing waterfront apartment in the city with my bridesmaids. We got ready with a view and breakfast on the Viaduct. The whole day was just perfect. It was like my Pinterest board had come to life right in front of me! I wouldn’t change a single thing. We couldn’t travel overseas for our honeymoon due to Covid, but we rented a cute bach on Waiheki for three days instead. My advice for brides-to-be would be to spend time with your partner on the wedding day! You often feel as if you should be making conversation with all the guests but don’t forget to make some special memories with the most important person. W

Morgan and Oliver 2 0.0 3 . 2 0 2 1

MORGAN ELSTOB and OLIVER FULTON weren’t looking for love but life had other plans when they met, fell head over heels, had two kids and married on a farm where guests were invited to camp overnight. Photography BLACK ROBIN PHOTOGRAPHY blackrobinphotography.co.nz Gown VINKA DESIGN vinkadesign.co.nz Words compiled by YVONNE KERR

n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z | 29

O

liver and I met through mutual friends. I really wasn’t interested at first! A few house parties later and well, the rest is history. We had a surprise pregnancy at the start of our relationship. My body doesn’t like being pregnant and I spent most of it in hospital or in bed, counting how many times I felt a kick. Oliver was the rock I never thought I’d find: sitting with me for hours, helping me cope and all the while smiling, listening and holding my hand. We managed a stressful situation as a team. We fell in love quickly and realized we wanted to give our family a go. Neither of us was looking for a relationship, let alone a baby, but we found ourselves head over heels in love. Three years later, we have two kids, two dogs and we’re married. I am still in awe at where we’re at now. The proposal was a beautiful failure! Oliver (Oli) tried to give our two-year-old daughter Liffey the ring to bring to me but she proceeded to have a meltdown. I had no idea what was happening. Once we pried the box out of her grasp, Oli placed the ring on my finger and I stood there for ten minutes. He said; “so is that a yes?” to which I replied; “you never actually asked!” We were engaged for eight months. For our wedding, we wanted a tipi as we love the look and feel of them. Luckily, we were able to use a close family friends farm as a venue, outside of Dinsdale. I grew up on a farm. Also, we didn’t have a time limit on when we had to leave so friends camped out with us, which was amazing. We had 60 guests. It was a magical day. The next morning, we had a BBQ brunch and everyone helped us to pack down. Our wedding was very casual. Some guests were in jandels and some in suits! Everyone being involved from the start to the end made for a fun, easy-going day. We chose autumn for the marriage as we didn’t want high summer and spring weather is too unpredictable, but this gave us two weeks to plan!

We made sure to provide blankets and a fire to keep guests warm and we’re lucky it didn’t rain. I chose a theme of black and gothic. I wanted dark and dramatic flowers, something a little different. The drama of the different colours and textures really stood out against my dress and I loved that contrast. I had never been that girl who dreams of her perfect wedding but I had always wanted a gold dress, so that was top of my list. My Vinka Design dress was made from a beautiful lace and we added more lace and 3D flowers that my mother spent many hours painting and sewing to create that gold look. With a sheer back, it was everything I wanted! We added an entire overskirt made of tulle in a champagne colour. I was able to take off my skirt later to make it easier to dance. It was amazing. I had gold snalde shoes made from pleated fabric and I kept it simple with a couple of hair clips, a pair of earrings and a veil that hit the ground. Oliver chose an oatmeal-coloured linen blazer with a black shirt and pants. He added a marron tie and pocket square. We went for a banquet-style dinner with beef sirloin and tuna steak (that everyone raved about), along with salads and a grazing table. We didn’t have a cake. My Dad John made a speech and told Oliver he was “as chill as a sloth”. He also told us how proud he was of me and of our family. The photo shoot was a chance to get away from it all and just hang out. We also had to walk up a very steep hill, which was entertaining for all our guests. We created our own playlist of 1930s and 1970s party music: lots of Elvis and Bobby Darren. For our honeymoon, we went camping to Ruapuke, without the kids and we plan to go overseas when the world opens up! My advice would be to do what feels right. You don’t have to have bridesmaids or groomsmen or a seating plan. All our feedback was nothing short of amazing. W

Six menus, 4 wedding packages, 1 amazing day A slice of heaven on beautiful Scenic Drive in West Auckland

Find us at: tuihills.co.nz Ph 09-358-5836

Jacqui and Glen 0 8 .0 5 . 2 0 2 1

JACQUI LE PROU wed her best friend GLEN MORGAN in a candlelit autumn ceremony and treated guests to a stylish reception and a dramatic sunset backdrop over Kauri Bay. Photography ZAHN zahn.co.nz Makeup & Hair HAIR & MAKEUP BY JENNY insta: @jennyvioletstyled Signage GLOWNZ EVENTS glownzevents.co.nz Words compiled by YVONNE KERR

I

owned a nightclub in Auckland and Glen came there with some of his friends. His charm and charisma caught my attention immediately. After a few hours of banter, we exchanged numbers. Glen said he wanted to host his birthday at the club, but I’m pretty sure it was just a great way of getting my number. We texted a lot after that, and the conversation was easy. I found him super interesting. We are two peas in a pod and quickly became each other’s best friends. Glen proposed in 2019, while on a trip to Taupo for my 36th birthday. We visited Huka Falls where Glen turned me around, he was saying some lovely things, none of which I can remember! He dropped to his knee and proposed. I forgot to say yes! Our friends got it all on camera. We both love autumn; it’s Bluff oyster season and a good reason to enjoy a glass of mulled wine. I love the colours and the autumn leaves. Kauri Bay ticked all our boxes as a venue. Our theme was modern and romantic with white and blush nude-coloured florals, we had Kauri Bay lit with fairy lights and candles burning in our favourite vanilla musk scent. I walked down the aisle to my father’s favourite love song, Wild Horses by The Rolling Stones. We gave everyone Instax cameras to take snaps for our keepsake book. We had 88 guests. We had a sit-down candlelit dinner. We started with champagne and canapes served on the lawn, of buttermilk

34 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z | 35

fried chicken, confit pork belly and arancini balls. Once seated, the entrees were cured snapper followed by the main affair of grass-fed eye fillet and chicken breast with serrano ham. Dessert was a three-tiered wedding cake: lemon, passionfruit, chocolate and salted-caramel with donuts and a cheese board. Walking along the ridgeline over sunset was our favourite memory; it was just the two of us. We were looking across Kauri Bay and could hear our family and friends laughing and cheering. Everything seemed so perfect, and my heart was full. I had my gown designed. It was a Mikado Silk gown which featured a full skirt, killer split with dramatic train, and an elegant plunging neckline, complimented with a romantic pearl veil. I accessorised with Gucci mules, pearl and crystal earrings and tennis bracelets. My four bridesmaids wore full-length strapless white gowns. Glen wore a tailor-made three-piece suit that featured a charcoal grey dinner jacket and his grandfather’s cufflinks and tie pin. I changed into a party dress that evening. I chose to get ready at home with my bridal party and family and my French bulldogs. We flew to the venue by helicopter from the North Shore; other guests arrived by coach from Auckland. The groomsmen stayed at the venue the night before, in the restored shearing shed, where they cooked a feast while all the boys had their heads and faces shaved by a barber. In the morning, they all went shooting. We went on a mini moon to Queenstown for four days and plan to travel once borders open. My advice would be to make the day about yourselves! And love like there is no tomorrow. W

Stephanie and Nicholas 25 .0 6 . 2 0 2 1

Party people STEPHANIE KEHOE and NICHOLAS BARRETT created an “extra” winter wonderland for their big day with Christmas trees, glass reindeer and a flash mob. Photography PROSHOT PHOTOGRAPHY proshotphotography.net Venue MARKOVINA VINEYARD ESTATE markovina.co.nz Gown MODES modes.co.nz Words compiled by YVONNE KERR

38 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

GA LLERY

M

y mother found Nick on Tinder and swiped right. She talked me into going on a first date as she had a feeling he would be “the one”. Mums know best! We knew from the start that we have a similar outlook on life; our families come first, we enjoy being active, and we’re often the last people on the dancefloor! Even our friends hit it off. Nick taught me how to snowboard and we picked up a few new hobbies together; ballroom dancing and surfing. We travelled Europe too as I’m from the UK and Nick is half Danish. Nick took me to Queenstown in 2018 for a surprise birthday trip and proposed on a wine and bike trail by the Kawarau River. We planned to marry in August 2020, but Covid had other ideas. We spent the extra time renovating our new home. I always dreamed of a winter wonderland wedding and we’re from Europe so we both love the snow. I ended up wading through all sorts of soggy terrain on the day and I was so happy I wore my sparkly Doc Martins. No stilettos for me! We wanted somewhere close to Auckland and found our venue on Instagram. Our Cathedral ceremony was traditional but the priest, Father Tipene, who I know well, made it fun and entertaining for our 140 guests. Every time the wedding was postponed (thanks Covid), we added more detail: fairy lights, glass reindeer, a candy bar, Christmas trees! I choreographed a flash mob all the ladies as a surprise for my new husband. It’s no wonder Nick describes me as “extra”. We handpicked our flowers with our florist, my mother’s friend Becky. I wanted blooms that would pop against the winter backdrop and the neutrals worn by our bridal party. I am dairy free, vegetarian and a Type 1 diabetic, and we had guests with dietary requirements, so a buffet worked for everyone. We

offered a lolly station too. Our traditional cone-shaped Danish cake, called a Kransekake, was made from almond biscotti and decorated with icing and Danish flags. Nick’s uncle David (also our MC) owns a gourmet cheese company and he also gifted us a cheese stack cake. We both got lifted by the groomsmen during our photo shoot, which was hilarious. Another fave photo moment was bouncing on the bed with my sister. My whole bridal squad got up on the bed in the end; it was such a laugh. We stayed on the dancefloor all night. I used to be a professional dancer, and I surprised Nick with a flash mob. My bridesmaids and I did a costume change, and we went all in. For my gown, I wanted something “extra”. I fell in love with the first dress I tried on. I felt like the best version of myself, and it passed the crucial “drop it low” dancefloor test! It had a fitted silhouette, a sweetheart neckline and a fishtail tule trail. We created a pocket for my insulin pump at the front that was covered by a tule flower, I loved it! I accessorised with a veil and hair vine, earrings, a faux fur shawl and a sparkly bag. I wanted my six bridesmaids to feel glamorous and sexy, ‘Pippa Middleton’ vibes. I’m also a sequin queen so their Forever New dresses ticked every box. Nick wore a tailored blue suit with a watch and engraved cufflinks that I bought him as a gift. We bought the groomsmen Viking horns and beer to calm their nerves. My highlights were seeing my dad tear up when he saw me in my dress, walking down the aisle, and saying, “I do”. For our honeymoon, we headed north to Nick’s parents bach in Mangawhai, and we hope to travel overseas when the world is a bit safer, hopefully to Bali for surf and sun. One piece of advice: We’re living in a new world so stay open-minded and adaptable. W

Photography Proshot Photography Florist and Styling Wildly, Madly, Deeply Gown Trish Peng Make up Fresh & Flawless Hair Ashley Collects

Auckland’s Premier Waterfront Wedding Venue Refreshed modern interior, stunning waterfront location. Outside balcony & wharf, flexible spaces – suitable for intimate to large gatherings. Central Auckland location, formal or casual style. Exclusive hire, suitable for both the ceremony and reception. Accommodates up to 180 guests.

okahu.co.nz | 09 521 3930

Shama and Saeed 0 5 .1 2 . 2 0 2 0

Stargazers SHAMA NAUSHEEN BI and SAEED RIZWAN MOHAMMED chose Lake Wanaka for their romantic nuptials with Indian and Islamic themes. Photography LIGHTPERSECOND PROJECTS lightpersecond.com Venue EDGEWATER RESORT, WANAKA edgewater.co.nz Cake WHITE RABBIT CAKES whiterabbitcakes.com Celebrant ELLITA THOMAS [email protected] Words compiled by YVONNE KERR

S

aeed and I met through mutual friends but I had spotted Saeed years before in a photograph and thought to myself; “That one is cute!” I requested his friendship on Facebook but cancelled it due to nervousness. It was five more years until we met! We formed a close friendship as we were both into travel, adventure, and astronomy. We share the same humour, too and make each other laugh. We knew we had found our person in life when we were the best version of ourselves with the other. We both refer to it as finding home. Saeed proposed on our favourite beach where we had seen our first shooting star. He opened the box and the ring fell straight into the sand! We were engaged for only six months as I had been planning my dream wedding for a while. We had both fallen in love with Wanaka. We wanted to have the ceremony, photos and reception at the same venue and chose summer as it’s our favourite season. My theme was simple modern and boho with integrated Indian themes. Toi Toi’s are special to me as they represent the New Zealand adventures and beaches Saeed and I have enjoyed together. Bridal bouquets had toi tois, white roses and dried flowers. I am creative and passionate about digital design and so I had all the wedding signs, table numbers and menus made. I also designed magnets as our wedding favours. We had 83 guests for a sit-down meal. Our two-tiered cake was lemon flavoured with roses and toi toi. We organized a DJ from Auckland and chose a mix of English and Indian songs; romantic music for the ceremony and upbeat, party music in the evening. I surprised Saeed and his family

44 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z | 45

with a Samoan dance as his mother was born there. My mermaid-style dress was modern and sleek with a long trail. I altered it to add long sleeves and more lace at the back and front. I knew this style would hug my curves and complement my shape. I also wore a long veil with earrings and ivory heels. I changed into a modern Indian gown for the reception. We had one flower girl and four bridesmaids: my sister and three best friends. They wore custom-made Indian dresses that I had designed, with a satin top and skirt with a lace veil similar to an Indian sari. Saeed wore an ivory tailor-made suit. We had an Islamic marriage ceremony before the official ceremony. The private vows the morning of our wedding were perfect and set the tone for the day. It reminded me of how much we loved each other. Walking down the aisle and seeing Saaed tear up was so special to me. My favourite memory was the gift of a helicopter photoshoot by our friends on the day! We flew to the top of Mount Iron. We’re so glad we had a back-up plan for the outdoor ceremony as it started to rain heavily. Our décor was bought into Edgewater’s conference room and it was lovely. To spend time with friends and family who had travelled for the wedding, we stayed in Wanaka for three nights before going on a south island road trip for our honeymoon to Twizel, Lake Takapo, Mount Cook and Hamner Springs. My advice would be to go with your gut instinct as there are so many choices to make. Also, go on dates beforehand and don’t talk about the wedding! W

SLUG

Isabel and Tourley 26 .0 3 . 2 0 2 1

High school sweethearts ISABEL MONK and TOURLEY MUNRO opted for a casual, outdoor ceremony and relaxed reception close to their family homes in Matakana. Photography KATE LITTLE PHOTOGRAPHY katelittlephotography.com Hire CARLTON PARTY HIRE, WARKWORTH carltonpartyhire.co.nz Words compiled by YVONNE KERR

48 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

T

ourley and I met on the Spirit of Adventure when we were 16 years old and still at high school. We got together soon afterwards and never looked back! Tourley proposed during a midwinter evening at home. We went out for dinner afterwards and organised a party the following night where we surprised our friends with the news. We were engaged for 18 months. Being from Auckland, we know Matakana well and knew we wanted to have a relaxed, family-style outdoor wedding in that area, so it had to be in summer. We had the ceremony at my family home and a function the next day at Matakana Botanicals, so the event was casual, relaxed and fun, just as we wanted, and all our 85 guests were included. We were due to marry on March 6th but were forced to postpone due to lockdown in Auckland. Our suppliers were so accommodating, and we managed to rebook everything for three weeks later. Two of Tourley’s groomsmen live overseas and couldn’t make it unfortunately. We live-streamed the ceremony so family and friends overseas could tune in and feel part of the day. For our flowers, I wanted something beautiful but not overdone. I didn’t have anything specific in mind, so I trusted the florist. We didn’t want to take away from the natural backdrop so went for little pops of colour; orange, yellow and pink matched the champagne colour of the bridesmaid dresses and worked against the browns, white, black and green of the

n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z | 51

reception venue at Matakana Botanicals. Our family feast gave everyone the option of sharing and choosing their own meal. We included sous vide eye fillet, pomegranate-glazed salmon and middle eastern eggplant. Dessert was our two-tiered wedding cake: chocolate cake, and lemon and coconut cake, along with petit fours. We also had a late-night snack of homemade pork and fennel sausage rolls that were a major hit. Guests also raved about the Frangelico chocolate truffles! My favourite memory of the photos was when it was just the two of us and we finally had a few moments of calm to take it all in. We loved all the speeches by our parents, the maid-of-honour, our best man and we both spoke, too. We went with a duo for a mix of live acoustic music and a DJ. We even took dance lessons to help us feel more confident with a routine for our first dance. It was much more fun than either of us expected as we’ve never been dancers! Our dancefloor was outside on the grass, which was a bit different and lots of fun. We arranged a bus to take our guests to and from the venue. My dress was simple and fitted with a low back. I also wore a veil and hair clip. My four bridesmaids wore champagnecoloured gowns. Tourley wore a beige suit with a floral tie. We travelled to Northland for our honeymoon the next day and stayed in hotels and Airbnb’s. My advice: Allow more time than you think you’ll need so you don’t feel rushed. W

F I S H Weddings Book your intimate wedding at FISH starting from just $1,200 A BESPOKE RECEPTION PACKAGE TAILORED JUST FOR YOU,INCLUDING:

Private seaside dining, set to the stunning backdrop of the Waitemata Harbour A customised menu from our awardwinning Culinary Director, Des Harris, including a menu tasting for two A tailored beverage menu Hand-blown glass candles Tablecloths and napkins Valet parking for the Bride and Groom Special accommodation rates for you and your guests Add a ceremony on the FISH Terrace for $1000 Terms & Conditions Apply

BOOK FISH EXCLUSIVELY FOR YOUR SPECIAL DAY AND RECEIVE ONE COMPLIMENTARY NIGHT IN A HILTON BOW SUITE FOR THE NIGHT OF YOUR WEDDING, INCLUDING BREAKFAST FOR TWO.

To book a site visit and for more information go to fishrestaurant.co.nz or contact [email protected] | 09 978 2012

Rebecca and Alex 0 8 .0 3 . 2 0 2 1

REBECCA BUTLER and ALEX ORWIN dodged a few Covid-19 curveballs to pull together the Opoutere beach wedding of their dreams with plenty of help from friends and family. Photography MEL FLETCHER melsmoments.co.nz Celebrant NICOLA DEERNESS nicoladeernesscelebrant.nz Words compiled by YVONNE KERR

A

lex and I met the old-fashioned way in 2013, through a mutual friend in a bar in Auckland. We were both 21. We weren’t looking for anything serious but when I went overseas in 2014, being apart made us realise that we were meant to be together. Alex popped the question on our five-year anniversary. We were on a swing bridge overlooking Hokitika Gorge. It rained on the day, so he was down on one knee wearing a poncho! We were engaged for two and a half years. During that time, we started to build a beautiful life together, moving into our first home and having our first child. We chose an autumn wedding as we didn’t want to be too hot. We had 60 guests. Originally, we planned our wedding in Fiji, but this wasn’t possible due to Covid, and we still wanted a destination wedding, away from Auckland. We chose Opoutere Farmhouse as we could have the whole day at one location, and customize the area, as well as bring in our own food and drink. We loved that we could combine the beach and forest areas. We had shade from the trees for our ceremony, but our toes were in the sand, and we could hear the waves. We set up an outdoor lounging area with bean bags, rugs and umbrellas where our guests could relax while they planed lawn games. There was accommodation on site for us and our close family, plus a campsite next door. Our theme was whimsical bohemian. It was relaxed and natural. We added some sustainable themes like foraging for wildflowers. Our friends and family transformed the barn into a beautiful reception space. My bridesmaid made the stationery and signage, and my parents made the salads, canapes and dessert, including our wedding cake! All these individual touches made the day feel uniquely ours. We only chose the traditional aspects that suited us and ignored others. We didn’t have a maid of honor or a best man, and we didn’t have a sit-down dinner, seating plans or a head table. Our bridesmaids’ bouquets and arch were made from artificial flowers, and we went with a mix of artificial and fresh hydrangeas, roses, eucalyptus and gypsophila. I wanted the style to be minimal, timeless and natural to reflect the beautiful landscape. Our colour palette was white and green. 54 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z | 55

We arranged a buffet-style menu for a relaxed, party vibe as everyone could socialise freely. We hired a pizza truck and had a candy buffet stocked with our favourite lollies! For dessert, my parents made brownies, lemon tart, ginger crunch and mini banoffees. Our cake was three-tiered: black forest, lemon and coconut and gluten-free baklava. Our favourite memory of the photo shoot is just us being silly and laughing. We chose live music for the ceremony and made a playlist of classic singalongs for the reception. We learned our first dance from YouTube! We also organized a photobooth guest book and that provided a lot of entertainment and memories. We hired a minivan for transport so that we could all travel together. For my dress, I chose an all-over lace gown with spaghetti straps and a low back. It was a sample dress that could be altered, which helped with the budget. I accessorized with a vine veil, and I wore a ring from each of my late grandmothers. The bridesmaids chose their own dresses in different colours. I had four bridesmaids, one who surprised me by pretending to be a stripper at my hen party! I thought she couldn’t make it due to Covid, but she travelled from the UK, did two weeks in MIQ and managed to keep it a complete surprise. Her partner was also one of the groomsmen. We had two flower girls and our son was a pageboy. We had a post-wedding brunch and then went on a minimoon to Pauanui, when we happened to conceive our second child! My advice is not to sweat the small stuff. Lots of things went wrong for us; our location and our date had to change due to Covid. On the day, we had a power cut: we had no music and no water for three hours! But the day was incredible and filled with love. W

Elyse and Benjamin 3 1 .10. 2 0 2 0

“Tinder success story” and romantic poets ELYSE JOHNSON and BENJAMIN AUPA’AU tied the knot with a garden ceremony in Kerikeri. Photography RACHEL JORDAN twolittlestarfish.co.nz Words compiled by YVONNE KERR

58 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

GA LLERY

Elyse and I are a Tinder success story. After a horrendous pickup line, three weeks of messaging, some deep conversations, plenty of Facebook stalking and bad jokes about catfishing, we took the plunge and met at Nippon Sake bar in Auckland. Our second date was three weeks later. I went to an outdoor movie park and set up beanbags and blankets before meeting Elyse for dinner. She was pretty taken by this romance and I knew then that this was the beginning of a love story! I’d been saving for Elyse’s ring and started planning the proposal when we decided to go to Fiji. After finding the perfect resort in the Mamanuca Islands, I began a long correspondence with staff about my surprise. I decided on a private sunset dinner, on a cliff, overlooking the water. The big day arrived and staff notified us that we had been “randomly selected” for a private sunset dinner (all planned of course). Elyse was so stoked! I recited a poem that I’d written and got down on one knee: she was in shock and started crying. I captured it all on my GoPro. We also happened to make a baby that night and Marley was our beautiful 18-month-old flower girl.

BEN:

We were engaged for two years. We fell in love with a garden venue and chose spring for the wedding. Our garden theme was loads of greenery with hints of blush floral accents: white roses, white chrysanthemums, manuka and silk flowers. Ben made our arch and we also made our own signs, menus, a seating plan, photo board, favours and name tags. We had 100 guests. Dinner was a buffet and dessert was our wedding cake, complemented by fresh fruit and ice cream, which was a hit! Our cake was three-tiers: chocolate mud cake, lemon cake and vegan chocolate cake. We treated everyone to Pizza Hut at 10pm.

E LY S E :

GA LLERY

n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z | 61

Our favourite memory of the photo shoot was getting caught in the rain: such fun. Also, our daughter singing ‘The Wheels on the Bus’ and everyone joining in. A live band performed for the reception after our reggae and country playlist for canapé hour and acoustic music before the ceremony. Ben’s family surprised us with a traditional Samoan Siva dance and the kids sang a song. My mermaid-style dress had a sweetheart neck with straps and lace from top to bottom with beading down the back. I loved the elegance of it. I wore a veil and accessorised with strappy heels, a gold bangle and pearls. I had four bridesmaids. They wore blush convertible dresses with their own nude shoes. Our daughter Marley wore a white dress with flower details and a chiffon skirt. Ben donned a sand linen suit as did our pageboy, his three-year-old godson. I gifted Ben a bottle of whiskey and a decanter set the night before our wedding and Ben gave me a USB with a special video message along with silk pyjamas and a massage. Our daughter Marley ran down the aisle when she saw her Dad, who started crying! We wrote our own vows: romantic poems we had written for each other. Friends who couldn’t make it due to Covid sent video messages. The whole day was exactly what we had hoped for: filled with fun, love and laughter. We honeymooned in Kerikeri for four nights but we dream of travelling back to our happy place, Hawaii, when it’s possible. My advice is to go all in! Follow your dreams and make it happen. Ben’s advice is not to sweat the small things; what’s important is the commitment you’re making. W

Say forever in timeless splendour Set your wedding in five-star luxury At Fable Dunedin your love story will come alive. Our gilded halls are imbued with history and romance, and in every little detail, this is a place made to make memories. Let us take care of all the little details.

Book your event fablehotelsandresorts.com +64 3 477 1145

[email protected]

fablehotelsandresorts

Katelynn and Kymberlee 18 .0 4 . 2 0 2 1

KATELYNN WATSON and KYMBERLEE NICHOLS describe their relaxed and intimate vineyard wedding as a perfectly imperfect fairytale: “We hope that all our guests took away the message that love is love.” Photography ESME & LOGAN PHOTOGRAPHY esmeandlogan.com Celebrant NATASHA BOWEN tashabowen.com Venue MARKOVINA VINEYARD ESTATE markovina.co.nz Words compiled by YVONNE KERR

K

ymberlee and I met on Tinder. We played minigolf for our first date. One month later, I asked her to be my girlfriend with a huge bunch of flowers. Kymberlee grew up on a farm near Napier whereas I’m a city girl. Regardless of this, we share similar values and we’re both family orientated. When we got on with our respective families, we knew we were onto a good thing! We had discussed engagement rings and had also both purchased rings before Kymberlee proposed to me at Muriwai Beach in January 2020. Muriwai has been a special place for us from the start of our relationship. We head out there often to watch the sunset, take a picnic or go for a walk. I knew something was up on the day Kymberlee proposed as she was acting strange and being a bit secretive. We went for a hike and after a picnic she popped the question. We married 16 months later. I found the venue online. We chose autumn as we love the colours and the temperature: not too hot or too cold. We matched our colour theme to these warm autumn shades, especially our invitations, stationary and bridal party outfits. It meant a lot to us as a same sex couple to feel so welcomed and special at Markovina. We had a small, relaxed ceremony with 50 guests. We share the same sense of humour but neither of us like being the centre of attention. We’re quite traditional and did the

64 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

GA LLERY

something old, new, borrowed and blue; our flowers were wrapped in Kymberlee’s mother’s veil; we borrowed jewelry and we carried a blue crystal. We hired Jaguar cars to drive us to the venue. Our meal was a buffet and our wedding cake was two-tiered; lemon and raspberry and black forest, with buttercream frosting, decorated with red roses. Getting away from the hustle and bustle of the wedding for our photos was so nice. We had some quiet time and we were able to soak up the day and laugh together. For the music, I created different playlists for the ceremony, dinner, dancing and guest mingling. When we started dating, I created a playlist for Kymberlee with songs that have become ‘our’ songs and these featured a lot! Our fathers made speeches, as did both our bridesmaids. My brother wrote a speech that my mother read for him. Kymberlee made a speech that she and I wrote together. Kymberlee’s sister rapped her speech to the tune of The Prince of Bel-Air! I wanted a gown that was fitted and highlighted my curves. I found dress shopping really overwhelming. I knew it needed to be ivory as Kymberlee and I had to wear the same colour. I fell in love with the train and keyhole back detailing of my dress. I felt beautiful in it; the bodice, train and shoulder straps were in French lace. I also wore a long veil with a floral headpiece and an old family heirloom: my nana’s ring. Kymberlee’s dress had a beautiful V-shaped back and a

little element of sexy with thin spaghetti straps and lace embroidery on the bodice. She accessorized with a veil, a diamante head band, pearl and diamante earrings and a diamond heart necklace that was a gift from her dad to her mum on her 21st birthday, and that she’d worn on her own wedding day. We wore the same silver sparkly block heels! Two of our three bridesmaids (Kymberlee had two, I had one) wore Cleo-style dresses and the third wore a Kate-style gown, all in the same rust colour. We both agree that the most memorable part of our day was the ceremony and finally seeing each other in our gowns. Also, expressing our love for each other through our vows. It was a dream for us to see each other looking so beautiful! Celebrating with our family and close friends made us feel incredibly lucky to have such amazing support and love in our lives. It was the first same sex wedding for all our guests and so we hope that they took away the message that love it love, and it is the same no matter what gender people are. We’re so happy we had a Polaroid camera guest-book as we absolutely love looking back at these photos. We also placed advice cards at each table for our guests to answer questions about us and draw a picture. These proved to be hilarious! The whole day was a fairytale; perfectly imperfect, memorable, togetherness, love. Our best advice is to brush your teeth before you get into your wedding dress. We have a photo of Katelynn brushing her teeth over the kitchen sink in her gown! W

A perfect match...

The stunning all-year round wedding venue 84 Old Railway Road, Kumeu, Auckland Ph: 09 412 8608 www.markovina.co.nz Photo credit: Pause Films and Photo

Martha and Manasa 0 2 .0 7. 2 0 2 1

Teenage sweethearts and sports stars MARTHA LOLOHEA and MANASA MATAELE wed in an intimate Fijian-inspired ceremony in Christchurch. Photography KORU PHOTOGRAPHY koruphotography.nz Venue OMARINO ESTATE omarinowinepark.co.nz Words compiled by YVONNE KERR

W

e started off in a long-distance relationship after I visited Manasa’s hometown of New Plymouth for a netball tournament. I was living in Christchurch then. We were both teenagers and didn’t know what the future held, but we kept in contact daily. A few months later, Manasa was offered a full-time rugby contract with The Crusaders, which meant a move for him to Christchurch! That was five years ago. I planned a weekend away to Lake Tekapo and Manasa decided this would be the perfect time to propose as I would suspect nothing! I was on the balcony of our hotel looking at the view and when I turned around, he was down on one knee. We were engaged for 11 months. We chose to marry in winter as it was the best time for both of us. We had one week between the super rugby, international test matches and provincial championship games! I play with the Canterbury women’s rugby team. We loved the idea of getting married in a church and chose the beautiful Rose Historic Chapel in Christchurch, which was the perfect size to host our 90 guests followed by our reception at Omarino Estate. We wanted a warm, classy and elegant feel for our wedding. We added traditional touches such as Fijian mats to stand on for the ceremony. These were made and sent from Fiji by Manasa’s parents, who couldn’t attend. We had originally planned to marry in Fiji, but this wasn’t possible

70 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

GA LLERY

due to Covid so instead, we played lots of Fijian island music to give our wedding an island vibe. For our flowers, I requested pink proteas as it’s my favourite flower and pink complemented the bridesmaids’ dresses. I had a king Protea in my bouquet. We also created a flower arch for the reception. Our dinner was a buffet with a mix of food, from slowcooked lamb shanks to coconut fish curry and vegan salads and for dessert, chocolate self-saucing pudding with our two-tier coconut and lime cake. The most memorable part of the speeches was when Manasa's best friend sang a song that he had written especially for us. I tried on lots of different gowns. The mermaid fit was my favourite, and the added wings gave it an elegant finish. The style was bohemian with a fishtail silhouette and a plunging neckline. The low illusion lace back combined a geometric floral lace pattern with a circle train. I loved it as I felt it signified my transition to womanhood, as Manasa and I met when we were still teenagers. I added wings to my shoulders instead of wearing a traditional veil and wore diamond tear drop earrings. I wore platform shoes for comfort! I also pinned my late grandmother’s pendant to the inside of my dress. My four bridesmaids were all my sisters, and they wore custom-made satin dresses that suited their individual shapes, in a subtle chrome pink colour. Manasa and his

groomsmen wore navy blue suits with pink rose buttonholes to match the bridesmaids. My niece was my flower girl. Manasa wrote me a personal note to read the morning before our wedding and my whole family came to our accommodation to make us breakfast. They also gifted me with a pendant that belonged to my late grandmother, so she was with me on the day. My favourite moment of the day was celebrating at the reception as we got to relax and spend time with our family and friends. We hope that through witnessing our marriage, our guests were inspired by our journey of obedience to God. We’re grateful that we kept our numbers small so that everyone could interact with each other, and we could speak to everyone who attended. The whole day had a cozy, family feel to it. It was the best day of my life; it was simple and so satisfying. Two days after the wedding, Manasa had to assemble with the Fijian men’s rugby team, so we had our honeymoon two weeks later, after the final test match against the All Blacks. We travelled north to Whangarei for a couple of nights before flying to Gisborne to see some family friends. We then travelled back to Auckland for another mini break. My advice would be to not try to impress people with a large, grand marriage and with lots of finishing touches that don’t really matter. There’s nothing wrong with having a simple wedding as all that matters is having all the people you love in attendance. W

PHOTOGRAPHY LIBBY ROBINSON

‘Bracu Estate is a Mediterranean Oasis at the heart of the Bombay Hills.’ ISLAND Seated: 100

PAVILION Seated: 160 Cocktail: 190 Walk and fork: 190

RESTAURANT Seated: 50

bracu.co.nz | [email protected] | 09 236 1030

Lucy and Gerard 0 3 .0 8 . 2 0 2 1

LUCY SMITH and GERARD RUSSEL opted for a destination wedding in Queenstown where their dream for a stunning snow-capped mountain backdrop became reality. Photography KATE ROBERGE kateroberge.co.nz Cake WHITE RABBIT CAKES whiterabbitcakes.com Words compiled by YVONNE KERR

n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z | 77

G

erard and I met in 2016. He came to an auction, saw me and asked my friend who I was. He was working in real estate with Harcourts; I was with Bayleys. He added me on Facebook, but I declined him! We kept seeing each other at the gym and a year later, he asked if I was going to accept his friend request! We went for coffee. The rest is history. Later in the relationship, we admitted that we both fell hard and fast! Everyone said the honeymoon phase would wear off, but it never did. I moved in with him after only three months of dating. Gerard proposed on top of a mountain in Queenstown. I had no idea! It was my dream proposal. We were engaged for one year, to the day. We found the venue on Instagram. We both wanted a white wedding with mountains as the backdrop, so the Eichardt’s Penthouse in Queenstown truly was the perfect location. A winter wedding created such a cosy, intimate setting with fireplaces inside and out. Our theme was modern, classic elegance. The wedding was intimate and simple. We had 16 guests, slightly reduced due to Covid. I chose white orchids, gypsophila and Alaska roses for my bouquet and it really complemented the beautiful space and view. We had a bespoke three-course set menu featuring pork cheek croquets, wild venison, line-caught blue cod, merino lamb and eye fillet steak. Dessert was dark chocolate mousse, lemon tart and our two-tiered pistachio, white chocolate and raspberry cake served with espresso martinis. My standout memory was taking a helicopter to the top of Cecil Peak. The sun was shining and there wasn’t a breath of wind. We could look down on Eichardt’s where we were about

GA LLERY

to get married. We kept the music super simple and created our own wedding playlist from old school classics, country music, wedding singalongs and guest requests. I had dreamed of a gown that was timeless and modern. My ‘Byron’ dress was sleek and sophisticated and suited my style perfectly. I felt so comfortable and relaxed in it. It had an hourglass design with an off-the-shoulder detail on one side. The fabric was bonded georgette with buttons at the back along with a corseted bodice and a fit and flare skirt. I accessorized with my mother’s diamond earrings, my grandmother’s blue Topaz ring (something blue), a pearl singletier veil and my dream slingback pump shoes by Dior. Gerard went for a classic black suit with a bowtie and black suede monk shoes. Our ‘first look’ was such a special moment as we had no idea what the other was wearing. We were both nervous and excited. It was just the two of us on the balcony in Queenstown with a fire going and a stunning snow-capped mountain view. I placed my hand in his and he turned around. For guests, I think the location and mountain views were memorable, as was the intimate style of our wedding. We’re so happy we married in Queenstown and that we kept our wedding so small. We were able to talk to everyone, relax and enjoy the night. For our honeymoon, we will wait until next year and hopefully travel but we continued our celebrations in Queenstown after the wedding. One piece of advice: It is to have a big engagement party so you can have a small, intimate wedding. You don’t have to follow tradition; you can make your own. W

Auckland’s

m e g n e d hid North Shore Golf Club’s stunning Function Room provides the perfect space to host your special day. With beautiful views out over the 27-hole golf course, seating capacity of up to 220, tailored catering packages and so much more – why look any further?

Contact our Corporate Sales & Event Manager today on 09 954 1269 and let us help you craft the perfect day.

51 Appleby Road, Albany, Auckland www.northshoregolfclub.co.nz

Shannon and Brett 2 6 .0 2 . 2 0 2 1

SHANNON WAINWRIGHT and BRETT ZINZAN embraced their love of Star Wars to add some antics to their big day with a themed cake, lightsabers and Galactic Basic table names. Photography SOUL SISTERS PHOTOGRAPHY soulsisters-photography.co.nz Cake SWEET BITE CAKES sweetbitescakes.co.nz Words compiled by YVONNE KERR

W

e met as teenagers in our hometown of Waiuku and at that stage, we weren’t very fond of each other! We hung with different crowds and went our separate ways. A mutual friend reconnected us via Facebook. She got in touch as Brett had seen me and asked if I was single. We chatted online, a relationship grew, and Brett introduced me to his son. We are two semi-awkward, nerdy people who decided to spend the rest of our lives annoying each other! We travelled to Rarotonga for a family holiday and Brett asked me to go for a walk along the beach. He started his awkward chatter and then turned and asked me to marry him. I answered: “Nah…yeah!”. We were engaged for 15 months. We found our venue online and fell in love with the old manor vibe as soon as we stepped in. Our theme was vintage with a modern twist. We love Star Wars, so we added collectibles and props throughout the day, from the cake and tables names to the bridal bouquet with a lightsaber handle, to tiny lightsabres on the men’s boutonnieres and our own lightsaber replicas for some fun bridal photos! We had 70 guests and opted for a summer wedding. To tie in with our colour palette, we chose faux white roses, blue thistles and lots of greenery. Our buffet included roast meats, seafood and a selection of salads with pavlova, profiteroles and trifle for dessert, followed by a three-tiered Star Wars themed mud cake. My standout memory from the photoshoot was my husband spinning me around on the dock; it was magical. We took more

82 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

GA LLERY

photos with sparklers and lightsabers in the dark. We travelled to the ceremony in an ermine white vintage 1966 Impala, borrowed from a friend. My bridal look was modern and sophisticated. My gown had a curved V-neckline and thin straps to complement the wide waistband of the matte Mikado bodice, with a large full ballgown skirt of tiered tulle. I accessorised with an ivory glitter veil, sapphire shimmer heels, a pearl and crystal hair vine and a necklace I borrowed from my mother-in-law. I also wore my late grandmother’s charm bracelet. My three bridesmaids wore satin wrap gowns with silver wedges. We dressed my niece, our flower girl, in a white lacetopped dress with a tulle skirt and sparkling blue shoes to match my own. Brett wore a white shirt with a navy trim, a light grey and navy waistcoat and black pants. He paired this with Italian leather Moccasins. We all stayed in Waimauku the night before the wedding and went to The Barn for dinner with our bridal party where we gave them their gifts. My standout memory is saying our vows to each other because in that moment it felt like it was just the two of us. We wrote our own vows to give the ceremony a personal twist. We missed out on a honeymoon as we couldn’t travel overseas. When we decided to fly to the South Island, another lockdown was announced! We spent the time relaxing at home instead. My advice is: Your wedding is your own so if there’s something you want, go for it. Be crazy, be spontaneous, do something wild. Your partner is marrying you because they love who you are. W

n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z | 85

Lisa and Dan 0 6 .0 2 . 2 0 2 1

Sparks flew for firefighters LISA CARGILL and DAN GREENE who stayed local for their stunning outdoor Hokitika wedding and featured their loyal four-legged friend Willow as a ‘flower dog’. Photography KORU PHOTOGRAPHY koruphotography.nz Florist KATRIN LILLA-NEL insta: @KatrinLillaNel Words compiled by YVONNE KERR

D

an and I competed against each other in a firefighting competition for the Greymouth and Richmond fire brigades. The stars aligned when we met at a second firefighting event and I took up a secondment in Hokitika. That’s when we got to know each other. Dan proposed on a weekend away to Maruia Springs with our new baby girl. We had planned to go for a walk to a remote waterfall but plans changed due to rain and during a picnic at the Marble Hills campsite, Dan popped the fateful question. We were engaged for 15 months. We wanted an outdoor location in Hokitika, where we live. We love to visit the local lakes and Lake Mahinapua was the most practical choice: fewer sandflies and the best views! Our colour theme focused on rose gold, silver, navy and dried flowers. We wrote our own vows and kept them secret. We invited 90 guests. The most memorable moments were being with our closest family and friends and becoming husband and wife. Also, sharing our personal vows. Guests enjoyed a platter during the photoshoot and a food truck delivered a Texan BBQ for the main meal. The ribs and pork belly were a highlight. Our cake was a two-tiered buttercream frosted cake with banana and chocolate layers, decorated with dried flowers, macarons, figs, cherries and blueberries.

86 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

GA LLERY

Our favourite photos were taken during an amazing sunset, beside a driftwood love heart. The Hokitika Driftwood Festival took place one week prior and we were lucky that this one remained. It was washed away after our wedding so it was a rare opportunity. We used the lakefront, jetty and bush walks at Mahinapua for photos and went to Sunset Point at the Hokitika river mouth for more beach and river photos. The ‘drown the gown’ images were my idea. They were taken the next morning. We couldn’t have been happier with the results. We wanted the reception in town so guests wouldn’t have to travel far. St. Mary’s Primary School was perfect and with the help of Hokitika Lions Club, who decorated the hall and helped with staff, the result was amazing. I created the centre pieces and the table design myself. We went with Spotify playlists for our music and sourced two 1950s Ford Fairlane’s to take us both to the ceremony and reception venues. I tried on lots of dresses that weren’t quite right and decided to have a gown custom-made. My dream dress was possible with fittings and alterations to suit my shape and style. We had four groomsmen, three bridesmaids and our daughter was a flower girl and ring bearer. Our faithful canine Willow was our ‘flower dog’! Our bridesmaids wore infinity dresses in a rose gold colour that they could wrap whichever way they liked, with their own shoes. We all wore matching dressing gowns while we

were getting ready, even my daughter! I gifted the bridesmaids and mothers of the bride and groom with gold pendants, made in Hokitika. The groomsmen dressed in Barkers chinos and shirts. After the rehearsal dinner, we had a mingle and mixer at a local restaurant for all our family and out-of-town guests so they could get to know each other before the wedding. Dan and I gifted each other watches the morning of the wedding and though we bought them from different places, they both ended up having an identical strap and clockface, which was amazing! My sister Kristen and her husband Alex couldn’t make it back from France due to Covid, so I secretly had life-sized cutouts made of them. They ‘attended’ the wedding, were in the photos and even shared first dances with us! We chose bubble guns instead of confetti so that our daughter could be involved. It was perfect as there was no rubbish afterwards. Dan had one of the diamonds in my wedding ring swapped for one of our daughter’s birthstones. Dan is a CNC machinist and made his own wedding band from aircraft grade titanium. He self-monogramed the ring with our initials. Our honeymoon was a 10-day tour of the south island with our daughter, taking in Maruia Springs, Hamner Springs, Nelson and Blenheim. Would you do anything differently? We might have sorted the wedding party sooner as this would have helped to cut freight and stock costs. W

Olivia and Steven 1 2 .0 6 . 2 0 2 1

Love blossomed for high school friends OLIVIA JONES and STEVEN CHHOUR who waited three years to fly to Rarotonga with friends and family for their dream wedding. Photography SEAN JAMES PETERSEN seanjamespetersen.com Venue MURI BEACH CLUB HOTEL muribeachclubhotel.com Words compiled by YVONNE KERR

S

teven and I stayed up all night talking to each other after a friend’s 21st party and realized our relationship was meant to be! We had been friends since high school. In 2018, we travelled to Hawaii together for my brother’s wedding and one week later, hiked Koko Head in Hawaii with my brother and his new wife. She asked to take a photo of us and when I turned around, Steve was down on one knee. We were engaged for three years before our wedding. Covid postponed two dates in June 2020 and November 2020. We then moved the day back to June 2021. We always wanted a low-key wedding and dreamed of getting married on a beach. We both enjoy snorkeling and swimming. We came across the packages at Muri Beach Club Hotel in Rarotonga. It looked relaxed and exactly what we had pictured. We went for a June wedding to escape the winter and when temperatures are in the mid-20s in Raro so not too hot. Our theme was beachy with lots of greenery and white. We wanted to keep it fresh, as the backdrop was the blue ocean. We had an archway and I wore a floral crown. Due to the wedding being postponed twice, I had four dresses by the time we got to Raro! The first one wasn’t weather appropriate and the second was too transparent. Thankfully, the dress that arrived on time was perfect! It was strapless and flowing with a slight train. I kept my accessories minimal with the floral crown, Pandora earrings and a gold heart necklace that Steve had given me. I went barefoot. We made our own party favour bags and added bottle openers that Steve engraved himself. We bought bottles of port to toast

92 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

GA LLERY

n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z | 93

my grandparents, as they couldn’t be there. We had 30 guests. For the meal we had a buffet. For dessert, we had crème brulee and coconut lime cheesecake as well as our two-tiered wedding cake in chocolate mud and coconut. We asked all our guests to share their song requests with us before the big day. We created a big playlist from their selection and it was awesome to see their reactions on the day when their tune was played. My Dad was MC on the night and made the first speech, followed by Steve. A handful of friends spoke too, which was unexpected as we didn’t have a bridal party. There was a lot of love and happiness in the room. My four-year-old niece was our flower girl. She wore a pink floral dress. Steve wore a white linen shirt and beige chino shorts with a traditional Rarotongan Rauti ei (flower garland). The most memorable moment was Steve and I standing under the arch and laughing after a rollercoaster three years. It was so surreal. For guests, the holiday was memorable as to travel again after Covid was a buzz. We arranged two tours for guests: the rehab party bus tour and a snorkeling BBQ lunch tour the next day. After landing in New Zealand, we drove north for our honeymoon to Kourawhero Mountain Lodge near Warkworth. My advice to anyone getting married would be to do exactly what you want and don’t consider everyone else! I’m so glad we opted for a small wedding. A lot of time and money goes into the day so do what you want so there are no regrets. W

THE CIVIC

OPULENCE IN THE HEART OF THE CITY

For magestic weddings, ceremonies and receptions aucklandconventions.co.nz

Germaine from the Secret Garden Collection by Vinka Design. Luxurious folds of silk satin with a dramatic double bodice sinched at the waist balances daring design with a timeless silhouette.

Photo GINA FROM EVERMORE PHOTOGRAPHY n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z | 97

CIVIC BEAUTY PhotographyGINA from EVERMORE PHOTOGRAPHY Styling TANIA OGILVIE

98 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

FA S H I O N

THIS PAGE Kazumi from the Maree de Maru collection by Vinka Design. A feminine fusion of 3D botanical soft grey lace on a blush base creates a stunning figurehugging silhouette that is complemented with a deep V front and back. FACING PAGE Model wears a one-of-akind wedding gown by Beau Couture. Handcrafted appliqué lace details on bodice. Lace neckpiece and lace sleeves accessories by Beau Couture. Designed and made in New Zealand

n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z | 99

THIS PAGE Top: Eadie, Lace crop wrap bodice with gross grain band. Skirt: Lacey, Layers of silk chiffon and a satin fitted waist band by Margaret Wray. FACING PAGE Intricately structured bodice accentuates the delicate curves of the torso. Gentle gathering of her skirt at the waistband cascades into a full A-line gown. High slit reveals the secret figure-hugging underskirt. Dainty off shoulder straps are the perfect finishing touch by Jessica Bridal Couture. Male model wears Working Style suit.

100 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z | 101

Camilla by Trish Peng. High boat neckline, long lacey sleeves, fit and flare skirt and an open back right down to the waist. The floral, linear lace pattern elongates all figures. Comes with a built-in bodysuit.

102 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

FA S H I O N Lyric by Madison Rose. Two-piece design, encompassing a classic A line skirt. Fitted semi-midriff bodice featuring an illusion bateau neckline. Sheer lace capped sleeves roll over the shoulder into a semi-open back, high-waist skirt flows to a classy skirt.

n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z | 103

104 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

FA S H I O N

THIS PAGE Serenity by Miss Chloe from Jessica Bridal Couture. Stretchy satin that hugs the body and accentuates all the right places. Full cross over, off-should sleeves show off the décolletage, whilst the fitted bodice flows into a figure hugging mermaid style skirt. Detachable A-line skirt which transforms her look from a sultry gown to a full gown FACING PAGE Moana from the Maree de Maru Collection by Vinka Design. For the modern bride who wants a classic spark, this spectacular gown is perfect. 3D lace is the centrepiece of the gown’s design, which is complemented by the high neckline, fitted sleeves, and elegant low back. n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z | 105

Joan by Vinka Design. Sculptural and seamless elegance transfuses with cascading pleated, silk organza sleeves, and vintage lace to create a modern, yet classic bridal look inspired by the past. 106 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

FA S H I O N

A beautiful, netted waistline divides the floral, semi-illusion bodice and mermaid skirt, adorned with placements of detailed lace flowers and dainty leaves by Modes. Male model wears Working Style suit.

108 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

FA S H I O N

THIS PAGE Sydney by Miss Chloe from Jessica Bridal Couture. Dramatic bubble sleeves give this sleek classic mermaid silhouette a modern twist. Sydney’s wide waist band cinches the body for a flattering finish. The open plunging V neckline accentuates the décolletage. FACING PAGE A beautiful, netted waistline divides the floral, semi-illusion bodice and mermaid skirt, adorned with placements of detailed lace flowers and dainty leaves by Modes. Male model wears Working Style suit. n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z | 109

Sloane by Madison Rose. High neckline skimming all the curves and beaded lace profiling the figure showcasing the silhouette beautifully. Modest at the front the back is stunning with the open baroque beaded style lacework fastened with ivory buttons 110 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

FA S H I O N This pretty sleeved lace gown by Modes has a separate chiffon overskirt. Dainty covered buttons trickle all the way down from the nape of the neck to complete the look on the sheer lace back. Male model wears Working Style suit.

n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z | 111

THIS PAGE Soft silk tulle a-line wedding gown by Modes with a bateau neckline rounded back and long sleeves in crystal tulle with thread-embroidered beaded floral appliqués PHOTOGRAPHY Gina from Evermore Photography MODELS Rebecca Dieudonne. Petr Jakoubek from 62 Management Ltd STYLIST Tania Ogilvie MAKEUP Styled by Jenny @jennyvioletstyled (Instragram) JEWELLERY Sutcliffe Jewellery LOCATION The Civic, Auckland City Airedale Boutique Suites, Auckland City 112 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

FA S H I O N

STUNNING NEW BRIDAL SHOWROOM

M

We pride ourselves on providing brides with some of the most exquisite wedding dresses in the market

uch-loved designer eventwear and bridal experts Modes have long been an institution in Auckland’s top shopping precinct Newmarket, and have recently expanded the empire with a stunning new space at 26 McColl Street, Designed to complement the existing space at 160 Broadway, which now exclusively houses their eventwear offering, the beautiful new bridal showroom on McColl provides the perfect location to showcase Modes’ second-to-none range of bridal gowns, along with bridesmaid and flower girl attire, accessories, jewellery and more. “At Modes Bridal Boutique we pride ourselves on providing New Zealand brides with some of the most exquisite wedding dresses in the market,” says Modes founder and director Diane Stephenson. “We carry bridal couture from international design houses such as Pronovias, LaSposa, Marco Maria, White One, Saint Patrick Studio and more.” “We moved in particular in order to showcase our beautiful European bridal product in better light and in a larger space that has a more private and exclusive vibe,” says Diane. “It is really important that you see the actual colour of

gowns on your skin in natural light, and be able to concentrate and make your selection without the distraction of another bride-to-be in the showroom. The new store also comes with car parking for our brides booking an appointment and is in a most convenient location just off Khyber Pass near the motorway.” The space has a very European feel, with high ceilings and skylights to maximise the light and a courtyard full of colour and greenery. “The semi-industrial feel to the metal stairway to the mezzanine gives one the feeling of climbing into something quite elevating, private and special,” explains Dianne. “Our bright chartreuse highbacked velvet chairs and contrasting industrial elongated coffee table provide a great backdrop for the bride as she stands on her pedestal in front of a huge antique gilt mirror.” Diane says Modes’ passionate bridal team can offer expert advice on fit, fabric, colour and design to perfectly suit every bride’s shape and style. “And for all those special little adjustments for fit and finishing, we also have an in-house alteration service,” she adds. W For more information visit modes.co.nz

FA S H I O N

How to: MAKE THE DRESS FIT YOU Written by TRISH PENG

T

he day has come to prepare for your wedding day, and the one thing on your mind is...the dress! The excitement fills your mind about what to wear, who to wear, and every detail in between. Then once the excitement passes, the nerves kick in. Will it be the right dress? Do I need to go on some crazy diet to make sure my dream dress fits me? The answer..No! There can be a lot of underlining pressure around looking your best for your wedding day, and in some cases there is a stigma around slimming down to fit the dress. This can create a lot of added stress for a bride and is something that needs to be more openly talked about in order to remind brides of what truly matters and what doesn’t. No matter what size, shape, or length every bride will look beautiful on their wedding day by just being them! You want a dress that you feel confident yet comfortable in, so here are some tips for along the way. When purchasing your dress it is best to order the size you normally wear. Don’t size down with the idea that you will be going on a wild weight loss journey pre wedding day because it will make the countdown to the day a stressful one. You want to be comfortable in the dress you choose, and being comfortable means remaining true to the size you are and being proud of the way you look. Bridal dress sizing may be different 114 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

from store to store, and may differ from your normal sizing so don’t be alarmed if you measure as a different size to what you normally wear. This is common and isn’t something to be concerned about. Trish Peng offers alterations 6 weeks before the wedding day to ensure the perfect fit. The girls at Trish Peng are there to ease your worries if there are any changes that need to be made, and to make sure you’re looking and feeling one million dollars in your dress. Another great way of ensuring the perfect fit is getting a dress custom made. A custom gown will be fitted with you

along the way, starting with a mock-up in a calico fabric where everything is made exactly to your proportions. This is a nice option if you are struggling to find a dress perfect for you, and are wanting something tailored specifically for your body type. Lastly, just relax and enjoy the ride. The right dress will come to you, and all of the preparation and excitement along the way will be worth it once you’re walking down that aisle! W

FA S H I O N

GOOD FINDS FOR

FASHION Accessories for your big day. 11 1

2

12

3

10

4

9

8

5

6

1 Natalie Marie Ailing sterling silver cuff bangle, $375 2 Witchery Beth Bracelet, $110 3 Witchery Goldie heels in Ballerina, $200

4 Videris Angela bra, $90, and Whitney high-waist briefs, $40 5 Kathryn Wilson Kirsty heels in Rose Floral, $359 6 Saben Nikko phone sling in Alabaster, $239 7 La Tribe Twisted Mule heels in Blush, $300 8 Merchant 1948 Stephanie heels, $210 9 Meadowlark Baroque pearl and 9ct gold anklet, $315 10 Pleasure State Magnolia push-up plunge bra, $160, and briefs, $90 11 Slip large silk scrunchies 3-pack, $59 at Mecca 12 Juliette Hogan JHL cotton cashmere robe, $429

116 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

COMPILED BY JOSIE STEENHART

7

Photo DARIA LUKOIKO

BE AU T Y

Gua Sha Facial Stones Get glowing skin by incorporating this ancient practice into your routine.

G

ua Sha is a massage technique that follows the principles of traditional Chinese medicine, dating back centuries. Designed to help move energy flow, known as Qi, throughout the body along its meridian lines. This mindful ritual reduces stress and leaves skin radiant, making it an ideal tool for brides to incorporate into their skincare regime for glowing skin. Results-driven treatment salon Skintopia (with locations in Auckland and Wellington and their online store Skintopia.co.nz) has been incorporating the use of their Black Obsidian and Rose Quartz Gua Sha Facial Stones, into their cult treatments. Their expert skin therapists use them to encourage lymphatic drainage and circulation while lifting, toning and sculpting the facial muscles. Skintopia’s Gua Sha technique can also be used at home with the stones, on top of appropriate products such as a serum or facial oil. “Gua Sha is one of my favourite methods for helping to stimulate the body’s lymphatic drainage, reducing puffiness and boosting circulation,” says Skintopia’s Advanced Skin Specialist & Trainer, Laura Duggan. “To recreate this treatment at home the best method is to use upward, even strokes keeping the Gua Sha flat to the skin. Ensure you have some slip on the skin, I recommend using an oil base product. The results are immediate, as soon as you notice a flush of colour to the skin you know that you have increased the flow of nutrient rich blood and Qi to the face,” comments Laura. The benefits of Skintopia’s Gua Sha technique can include: F Stimulates circulation to give skin a noticeable glow F Relieves facial and jaw tension F Firms and lifts the face over time F Helps produce collagen F Improves congestion F Diminishes dark circles F Reduces puffiness and fluid retention The stones paired with Skintopia’s massage techniques stimulate microcirculation of the soft tissue to increase blood flow and decrease puffiness and inflammation – leaving skin looking brighter, toned and more radiant looking. Skin that every bride covets. W Book your Dermalogica ProSkin 30 or ProSkin 60 skin treatment at Skintopia to receive a free Gua Sha stone. Valid while stocks last. To view Laura Duggan from Skintopia’s How to Gua Sha video scan the QR code .

118 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

BE AU T Y

CREATING YOUR

Desired Look If you’ve always dreamed of long, lush locks or an elaborate up-do on your wedding day but things haven’t quite panned out as planned, don’t despair, says hair and makeup artist Jenny Good of Styled By Jenny.



Extensions are a great and easy way to add extra length and thickness to your hair, instantly creating your desired look, whether that’s volume, length, shape or thickness.” Hair extensions come in a variety of types, but Jenny says clip-in styles are great for those just wanting a one-day look. “You don’t have to commit to the maintenance of other extensions as they just clip in and out of the hair, which is a good temporary solution,” she explains. “If you require something a little more permanent, tapes or wefts might be the next option for you.” Not sure what’s what? “Clip-in extensions are suitable for one-off looks and require no maintenance,” says Jenny. “Tape extensions are one of the most popular extensions used today as they are suited for most hair types from fine to thick, and are applied to sections of your hair. They are lightweight and sit flat to the natural hair, which makes them undetectable and still movable with your own hair. This also means they are easy to put up to achieve an up-style look. Weft extensions are a larger row of hair and are applied typically by micro rings to your hair. Wefts are great for volume and length and are best suited for medium to thicker type hair.” Jenny says your own natural hair length, health and thickness and lifestyle will determine what type of extension is best suited for you, but warns that “good hair extensions are not cheap and finding the right salon with extension experience is a must.” She says quality extensions are worth the investment though “as they blend seamlessly into your own hair and can even be good for your own natural hair, saving the ends from being exposed and compromised especially if you’re using a lot of hot tools”. Quality extensions should last around

120 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

a year with the correct care with maintenance services between six to eight weeks. And just like your own hair, extensions require quality hair products, so investing in salon hair care products is key for optimal protection. Whether or not extensions are for you, Jenny offers some tips and tricks to ensure gorgeous, healthy looking hair on your big day. M I N I M I S E DA M AG E

Heat styling, chlorinated water, excessive washing, UV rays: these can all contribute to compromising the condition of the hair. Using salon haircare at home in the leadup to the wedding will help with these damaging factors. Plus a heat protector styling product is a must when using any heat tools. R EG U L A R T R E AT M E N T S

Using a deep treatment at least once a week doesn’t just help with softness and shine but also protects your hair from damage, giving it an extra boost of protein for strength and hydration with moisture. U S I N G T H E R I G H T TO O L S

Do your research on the best hair dryers, straighteners and curling tools. Look for salon-quality styling tools with either ceramic or titanium coating, which will not only style your hair but distribute the heat evenly over the hair. R EG U L A R T R I P S TO T H E SA LO N

Even if you are trying to grow your hair, it’s essential to have a trim every six to eight weeks Getting your hair trimmed regularly will actually help you grow longer, healthier hair by cutting off the dry split ends before they wreak havoc. W Hair Stylist/Hair Extension Specialist; @Jennyvioletstyled

NEW!

HydroPure™ Hyaluronic Lip Gloss A restorative, pillowy-soft gloss that combines lasting hydration with the lip loving benefits of a balm for fuller supple lips.

AVAILABLE IN 13 SHADES

Makeup Benefits: • Nourishing, non-sticky formula conditions, plumps and exfoliates • Powerful peptides plump and boost moisture and improve lip texture • Ideal for dry, thin, sensitive or ageing lips

Skincare Benefits: • Hyaluronic Acid for lip hydration that lasts • Botanical blend of oils and butters, condition and protect • Lactic Acid gently exfoliates to improve the appearance of fine lines

Ask about our special offer (only while stocks last) – find a participating stockist here THE SKINCARE MAKEUPTM DERMATOLOGIST & ALLERGY TESTED. #TheSkincareMakeup PSB.NET.NZ

JANEIREDALE.NZ

@JANEIREDALENZ

BE AU T Y

Plum, Smooth & Hydrate Your Skin Looking for a non-invasive way to plump and boost your skin? Indulge in Dr.LeWinn’s Ultra R4 Collagen Surge Plumping Gel.

T

his clinically proven, potent anti-ageing offering contains caviar-like collagen capsules immersed in a formula of superior-grade Hyaluronic Acid— hailed as the cosmetic alternative to dermal fillers—and ground-breaking anti-ageing active Neodermyl®, which itself has been touted as the ‘needle-free’ alternative to collagen filler. These two elements combine to not only plump, smooth and hydrate your skin with every application, but also aid to fill and reduce the appearance of lines and reinvigorate dull and tired complexion. Utilising Advanced Pearl Technology, the pearllike capsules immersed in a velvety plumping gel, bring with them a few moments of indulgence as they melt into your skin, releasing collagen to instantly plump and keep skin taut, while also enhancing firmness and elasticity. What can you expect from this anti-ageing hero? After just 4 weeks, 92% of the women who trialled our Collagen Surge Plumping Gel felt an improvement in their skin’s plumpness, as well as increased skin suppleness. Not only this, but 88% of trial participants also noticed improved skin firmness, as well as 80% noticing an improvement in the appearance of lines and wrinkles*. Available at selected pharmacies nationwide. RRP: $84.99 W *Results based on self-evaluation of 25 women using the Ultra R4 Collagen Surge Plumping Gel over a 4-week period. Independent Laboratory Study. 122 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

SUBSCRIBE TO:

Lara and David at their beautiful Auckland wedding. Page 18.

Modern Love

Six month subscription

One year subscription

Digital subscription

One year digital subscription

$20

$40

$6.95

$23.95

Two issues

Four issues

One issue

Four issues

NEWZEALANDWEDDINGS.CO.NZ

BE AU T Y

Nailing It

Written by TAMSIN GEORGE

They might seem like the most incongruous part of the body, but your nails will play a shining part in your wedding when guests long to admire your rings or bouquet. Get them in the best shape possible with these handy tips:

N

ails are easy to neglect in today’s busy life but they’re a good indicator of your health. Composed of laminated layers of protein called Keratin, your nail grows from the area at the base of the nail under your cuticle. Healthy nails are smooth, without grooves or irregularities, they’re the same colour and don’t have spots or discoloration. Given how much we use our hands, our fingernails often bear the brunt of a few knocks and scrapes so the odd white line or spot is nothing to worry about and they will grow out. Vertical lines are usually pretty harmless but can become more prominent with age. Don’t be shy to see your doctor if you’re worried about any of the following: changes in colour, changes in shape, thinning or thickening, bleeding or separation from the cuticle, nails that stop growing. N A I L D OS :

F Keep them dry and clean – especially for your feet, aim to keep moisture away to prevent bacteria from growing under your nails. F Keep the trim with sharp nail scissors or clippers. Cut across then round the tips to a gentle curve. F Moisturise – don’t forget to spread hand cream onto your cuticles and nails too. F Apply a protective layer with a nail polish hardener to help strengthen. NAIL DON’TS:

F Bite your fingernails or pick at the cuticles – the cuticles are crucial at keeping bacteria out of the nail bed F Pull off hang nails – you might rip off live tissue along with the hang nail F Use harsh products to remove polish or gel treatments F Ignore problems – don’t let them exacerbate. Especially when it comes to fungal infections in toenails, the sooner you treat these, the quicker and easier they will resolve. W

124 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

CO N S I D E R TA K I N G S U P P L E M E N T S

Biotin is part of the B vitamin family (B-7). Its main function is in the manufacture and utilization of fats and amino acids and helps the body convert food into energy. Most people get enough out of their diet but getting more through supplements can help regulate your blood sugar, strengthens hair and nails. Because its water soluble any excess biotin is simply passed through the body. There’s a lot of buzz about collagen powders and supplements which you can either consume in powder or capsule form. When combined with vitamin C they are said to promote hair and nail strength and growth. W H I C H CO LO U R S TO PA I N T ?

Every woman should have a signature nude as a beauty staple, a flattering nude will elongate fingers and is a classy, timeless look. To get the right nude for you, match it to your skin tone. Cooler colours with a pink or bluish undertone suit fair skin tones while warmer colours that have more yellow or red undertones suit warm skin tones. (To figure it out consider which part of the colour scale your foundation is – cool, neutral or warm). Consider: Essie MixTaupe, OPI Coastal Sandtuary, OPI movie buff, Zoya Brenna, BRIGHT DELIGHT

Add a splash of colour with classic red nails or choose a coral – again there are cool versions and warm versions (either with a cool blue base or warm orange) which will help you match the right shade for you. Corals, pinks and reds can give the illusion of looking tan. S O M E T H I N G B LU E …

Try a shade of blue with a nod to the traditional ‘something blue’ in weddings. Make it a modern French polish with just a lick of blue along the tips.

BE AU T Y

GOOD FINDS FOR

BEAUTY The latest and greatest. 2 1

13

3

12

4

11 5 6

10

9

7

COMPILED BY JOSIE STEENHART

8

1 Cloud Nine The Cordless Iron Pro styler, $645 2 Ardell Aqua Lashes water-activated strip lashes in #344, $17

3 Clarins Double Serum Eye serum, $138 4 Jane Iredale Amazing Base® Refillable Brush, $119 5 Mita Rose Gold Copper Tip brush, $20 6 Dyson Supersonic Flyaway attachment, $109 7 Glasshouse Fragrances A Tahaa Affair EDP 50ml, $109 8 Tailor Awaken eye cream, $49 9 Paco Rabanne Lady Million Fabulous EDP 30ml, $112 10 Dermalogica PowerBright Overnight cream, $149 11 SugarBaby Glow Your Own Way Micro-Needle facial roller, $33 12 Essano Vitamin C Brightening Biodegradable sheet mask, $6 13 Unconditional Skincare Co. Live Probiotic Hydration serum, $95

n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z | 125

WELLBEING





Turmeric - Acts as an antioxidant to protect the body from the damaging effects of free radicals and supports liver and gallbladder function. Green Powder with chlorella, wheat grass, barley grass, or broccoli sprouts - contribute to the body’s detoxification processes and maintaining alkalinity.

What’s an optimal timeline for a bridal detox?

BRIDAL DETOX TO FEEL YOUR BEST

and get a Healthy Glow

F

or most brides setting a wedding date means committing to a deadline to look your best. There is no denying every bride wants to look and feel great on their big day but it should not come with excessive crash diets or discomfort. If brides-to-be really want to detox and lose weight safely, the trick is to start with a slow and steady diet overhaul while preventing energy dips. We caught up with Erin O’Hara, naturopath and owner of Golden Yogi about the benefits of a cleanse and how to start one while still going about your everyday life and planning your wedding.

What should a Bridal Detox consist of? 1. F O C U S O N W H O L E F O O DS : vegetables,

fruit, whole grains, nuts, seeds, legumes, eggs, and fish. Eat a variety of different fruits and vegetables every day.

Try to avoid drinking a lot with meals, as liquid will dilute your digestive enzymes. 5. E X E RC I S E : stimulates circulation and lymphatic drainage to support the body with detoxification, and boost endorphins to feel good. 6.S U P P O R T D E TOX I F I CAT I O N

a.

b.

c.

What supplements are helpful for a detox? •

2 . E L I M I N AT E TOX I N S A N D L I V E R

alcohol, caffeine, and cigarettes. Avoid all the fizzy drinks, fried, sugary, processed foods, candies and chocolates, food preservatives & colourings, and packaged foods. These foods are hard to digest, make blood sugar levels unstable, and can cause bloating. 3. S L E E P : Improve sleep quality and quantity. Maintaining a healthy circadian rhythm is vital for many bodily and hormonal functions. 4. H Y D R AT I O N : Drink 2 Litres of water daily to support kidneys with elimination. LOA D E R S :

126 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

Dry brush your skin and have a cold shower to stimulate the lymphatic system and boost blood circulation. This will boost your energy levels and allow your skin to glow. Sweat in a sauna or hot yoga class so your body can eliminate waste through perspiration. Breathe deeply to allow oxygen to circulate more completely through your system and reduce stress







Psyllium husks or Partially Hydrolysed Guar Gum - Prebiotic fibre contributes to a well-balanced stool and bowel regularity. Milk Thistle or Dandelion root Support the health of your liver and assists liver detoxification processes to eliminate toxins Green Tea - A potent antioxidant providing broad protective effects in the body against free radical damage. N-acetyl-cysteine or Glutathione - has a key role in antioxidant mechanisms. It supports a healthy immune system and function of the liver.

Crash dieting only leads to excess hunger, mood swings, fatigue, and added stress as it gets closer to your wedding day. Three to six months before the wedding is a great time to start making diet and lifestyle changes. Start to slowly make changes that you can integrate into your everyday lifestyle and make goals that are achievable.

You are supporting your body to detox but how can we mentally detox? If you are feeling stressed your body produces more toxins and your hormones become unbalanced. Cortisol (“the stress hormone”) becomes elevated when we are stressed and it makes it more difficult for your body to lose excess weight. Take a break from the unending wedding planning and practice yoga, meditation, or do some simple breathing exercises. Alternatively, other self-care techniques are also helpful to reduce stress like reading a book, a beach walk, or just sitting outside in nature. The gatekeeper to looking and feeling your best on your wedding day is taking a few extra minutes a day to nourish yourself with good nutrition and a healthy lifestyle. A Bridal Detox will support your body to have a healthy glow, silky hair, strong nails and a flat tummy on your special day. W Erin O’Hara is the owner of Golden Yogi. She has a BSc in Physiology and BNatMed in Naturopathy. She has spent over a decade gathering knowledge and qualifications in health and wellness through; study, scientific research, personal illness, racing as a professional athlete, and an intrinsic passion for health naturally. goldenyogi.co.nz

WELLBEING

SPRING TIME TIPS for extra energy

S

pring is a time for many that means their wedding day is just around the corner! It’s a VERY exciting time. Spring also follows winter, which, can mean some winter weight might of crept on, the winter blues are lingering or energy levels just aren’t as good as you’d hoped. I’m going to cover some top tips for getting the spring back in your step, the excitement back in your soul and have you feeling great in your wedding dress. As spring approaches we naturally gravitate outdoors, we begin to socialize more around the good old kiwi bbq or out at the beach, which is great for the soul and the Vitamin D levels but it can also mean we begin more social drinking, or enjoying one too many Mr. Whippy ice creams on the beach side. To support optimal health so you can enjoy your big day to the fullest try these top spring time tips. 1. G E T O U T D O O R S

After a long winter and little sun a large percentage of New Zealanders are lacking or have below optimal levels of Vitamin D. vitamin D is essential for healthy immune function, healthy weight, gut health, mental health and so much more. As little as 15 minutes under the sun (without sunscreen), 3 times a week enables your body to make enough vitamin D ,but you need to be sensible. I recommend having your blood levels checked once a year to see where you’re at and supplement accordingly till you reach a healthy normal range, around 70-100nmol/l. 2 . H E A LT H Y B B Q S WA P S

Common meat we use on our regulate spring time BBQ often include high fat,

processed sausages - these foods cause weight gain, low energy and inflammation so next time you’re heading out take along some Skinless, boneless white meat chicken. Packed with protein and nutrients, chicken, Lean ground beef and turkey, Tenderloin steak, Fish, Pork chops or Organic Tofu. This will support healthy blood sugar levels keep you on the right track. When desert is due to follow, try reaching for some fresh or frozen fruit or yogurt, smoothie bowls or homemade ice tea (not sugar loaded) rather than endless scoops of ice cream which is high in refined sugars, unhealthy fats and often a load of artificial colours and flavors. 3. D R I N K W I S E LY

Alcohol has a stimulating effect on our body. Like other stimulating substances such as; caffeine, sugar and refined carbohydrates, alcohol raises insulin and cortisol within the body. It’s also a pure carbohydrate, so alcohol basically has the same effect on the body as drinking a soft drink. Your blood sugar levels will spike, providing you with an immediate source of energy followed by a crash. Only 10% of the alcohol you drink affects the brain giving you that ‘drunk’ feeling the other 80% just hits the liver making it one of the biggest liver loaders. Try switching up, limiting or leaving out the alcohol as much as you can, opt for things like sparkling water and kombucha or alternate having this inbetween your drinks.

to ease your way back into it, avoid going from the couch to the gym 7 days a week, you’ll fatigue and loose motivation, start slow and enjoy the process. Walks on the beach or yoga are great activities to help keep stress levels down. 5. I N C R E AS E YO U R R AW F O O D I N TA K E

Over winter we tend to consume more cooked foods, which is great as our digestive function slows somewhat due to lack or less movement however, cooking foods can destroy some of our essential vitamins needed for energy production, adrenal health (stress support) and immune function. Vitamin C is watersoluble and sensitive to heat, it can leach out of vegetables when they’re immersed in hot water. B vitamins are similarly heat sensitive. Up to 60% of thiamine, niacin, and other B vitamins may be lost when our meat and vegetables get cooked. 6. K E E P CA L M

Finally, as your big day gets closer stress can begin to elevate! It is natural, but that does not mean chronic daily stress is good for you – it is essential for all body systems that the stress response is kept in check. I recommend doing something that makes you smile every day and making time to practice diagphmatic breathing as often as you can, this action will automatically switch your body into the rest and digest state and help you achieve ALL your health goals better! W

4. G E T M OV I N G

During winter it is a common occurrence for us humans to naturally want to stay indoors, and not move as much – but now the weather is warming up now is the time to move that body again! Set realistic goals

Jess Wharton is a Clinical Nutritionist at Key Nutrition keynutrition.co.nz

n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z | 127

WELLBEING

GOOD FINDS FOR

WELLBEING Lotions, potions and more for optimum help in health.

1

10

2

11

3

9

4

8

5

7

1 Susanne Kaufmann Oil Bath For The Senses, $114 at Mecca 2 The Beauty Chef Deep Collagen Inner Beauty Support powder, $74 3 Essano

Collagen & Goji Berry Renew & Repair body lotion, $17 4 Braveface LiveCalm daily capsules, $40 5 Blis Probiotics Fresh Breath kit, $30 6 Ārepa Lite + Sparkling Nootropic brain drink, $6 7 Patchology Moodpatch Chill Mode eye gels, $24 8 Eve Morning Person supplement, $59 9 Marzena Pink Clay leg mask, $11 10 The Upside Leandra crop top, $159, and Dance midi leggings in Lavender, $185 at Father Rabbit 11 Bondi Sands Coconut & Sea Salt body scrub, $24

128 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

COMPILED BY JOSIE STEENHART

6

Photo PAVLO MELNYK

PLA N NING

FANTASTIC Wedding Venue Easily accessible and only a 20 minute drive from Auckland central

H

ugging the upper fringes of the Waitemata Harbour, adjacent to the Albany region, The North Shore Golf Club nestles amid tranquil rural surroundings that are framed by the dynamic backdrop of the Lucas Creek Escarpment. Allowing for fantastic photo opportunities, the spacious, light-filled club house overlooks this wooded, green landscape and offers a stunning bar and a large lounge where up to 220 people can now be hosted on your special day. Easily accessible and only a 20-minute drive from Auckland, North Shore Golf Club is a fantastic addition to the wedding destination offering in this region, convenient for all wedding guests, where they can enjoy a relaxing, coastal getaway as well as spectacular countryside views. The venue is flanked by popular scenic New Zealand beaches on the east coasts (Browns Bay,Milford) and offers a gateway to the remote beauty of Northland. Offering top-rated hotels and accommodation providers in the nearby area to accommodate your guests, North Shore Golf Club has compiled an affordable and comprehensive bridal package as well as a bespoke catering selection with the option of hiring an event manager for an additional cost. The club house is a versatile space with an outdoor deck overlooking a beautiful

130 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

green where outdoor weddings can be hosted. The venue also offers a large car park. Wedding packages offer onsite planning, a choice of menus and a fully stocked bar, a drink on arrival, all furniture, cleaning, tablecloths, glasses, crockery and cutlery as well as a cake table. The function room offers a stage, a dance floor and a wireless mic along with photo opportunities on the prestigious golf course. A sound system is also available for an additional cost, including speakers and a mixer along with strobe lighting, a projector and a screen. For an extra cost, a dedicated event manager will also help to coordinate all the aspects of the day. A choice of set buffet menus here can be tailored to suit your personal taste, including mains such as beef bourguignonne and seafood mornay to Thai chicken curry and a vegetarian three cheese and spinach roulade, as

well as an extensive selection of delicious canapes and finger food, sides and desserts. A hot carvery is also an option, and this includes glazed champagne ham, roast beef, roast lamb and scotch fillet of lamb. A whole roasted scotch fillet and rack of lamb are optional extras, and these are offered in conjunction with an extensive wine and beverage list, including bubbles, plus a selection of tap beers, bottled beers and ciders. The catering team at North Shore Golf Club prides itself on friendly and attentive service, and aims to make all bridal experiences at the venue exceptional. Experienced and dedicated club staff members are also available to help with all aspects of your wedding day and to support you in coordinating an enjoyable and unforgettable experience for you and all your guests. W For more information visit northshoregolfclub.co.nz

PLA N NING

HOW TO PLAN A STAG DO

During a Pandemic Written by YVONNE KERR

T

he past 18 months has really messed with our freedoms, shutting down overseas travel and postponing weddings, but fear not, your stag do can still go ahead, with a few minor tweaks. With a host of new considerations for any party planner thanks to Covid-19, here is a list of everything that should be covered off before making any final booking in the months ahead. • Are there any older members of your stag group, such as the mother and father of the bride and groom? Make sure you speak to them to suss out how they’re feeling about a get together and if they would prefer a night in or to attend via Zoom. • Where would you like the stag weekend to be? What are the latest Covid case numbers there and are there any restrictions? Where can your invitees easily travel to? • Insurance is crucial these days with plans having to change or be postponed at the last minute. Make sure to read through all the terms and conditions. It may be worth paying extra to ensure that you are guaranteed coverage if there’s a lockdown, for example.

Bachelor party activities It’s best to consider activities that should be able to proceed without any issues. Outdoor activities are the safest bet, as the proximity to other guests is reduced. Consider these options: CA M P I N G T R I P

Undeniably one of the best stag night/ weekend ideas for Kiwi blokes is to round up your mates and go for a good old camping trip in the wild. Pack the car with all the essentials (beer, BBQ, meat, a tent, a torch and a clean pair of undies) and

spend an evening reminiscing, laughing and back-slapping under the stars. Just don’t watch the movie Prey on Netflix before you go…. S U N S E T SA I L I N G A N D/O R

around the city to enjoy a bevvie or ten is. Introducing Beercycle! Hire a pedalpowered bike and embark on a bar crawl around Auckland or Christchurch on this most sociable and hilarious mode of transport.

FISHING CHARTER

The classic Kiwi bloke loves a good fishing trip. So charter a boat, get the lads together and a box of beers of course and head out or a day of fishing or sailing on your nearest scenic harbour. Once you’re back on land, fire up the barbie and cook your catches for dinner. B E R E T TA AT B R AC U

Just 40km south of Auckland, at the foot of the Bombay hills, olive tree estate Bracu offers up some seriously fun packages, including clay bird and air rifle shooting, air pistol shooting, archery and knife throwing. Once you’ve exhausted the range, if the restaurant is open, you can sit down to enjoy a decadent two to fourcourse meal and top it off with a whiskey or two. B E E RCYC L E

Beer is not the most original stag do idea but cycling en masse with 14 mates

PA I N T BA L L

Nothing gets the LOLs going more than a classic paintball session, running around like children and shooting massive balls of paint at each other with pretend guns. O U T D O O R P L AYG RO U N D

New Zealand offers a plethora or adventure activities and what better time to sample the adrenalin lifestyle than now. Consider tandem skydiving, whitewater rafting, mountain biking, quad biking, jet boat riding, bungee jumping or for those who prefer to stay grounded, golf. ES CA P E RO O M O N ZO O M

If all else fails, there’s Zoom. Pay for the premium package or it will keep cutting out every 40 minutes. Drinking games can easily be played while chatting remotely, as well as several fun virtual activities such as murder mysteries and escape rooms, all without leaving your house. W n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z | 131

Photographed by August and Vine Photography

Sweet Bites

T

here are no boring wedding cakes on offer at Auckland’s Sweet Bites. Instead, each is a customised work of art, whether you’re dreaming of something simple and sophisticated or memorably distinctive. “Wedding cakes are unique to each individual couple and are a representation of your love and personalities,” says Sweet Bites owner Angela Clapperton, who counts Robbie Williams among her customers after she made his birthday cake during a New Zealand tour. “With hundreds of beautifully designed cakes under our belts, we know what it takes to design,

Capturing Special Moments

L

ara Boddington was an art and design teacher at a high school in West Auckland before being bitten by the photography bug. “For five years, the ‘people person’ in me loved teaching, but the creative in me was crying out for something more,” she says. “I had done the occasional family photoshoot and a couple of weddings for friends, so venturing into the photography world was an option. My sister suggested I start up my own photography business, and while the idea terrified me, it was her persistence, and promises of us ‘doing business together’, which got me to hand in my letter of resignation! That’s how Soul Sisters Photography was born, almost a decade ago, and when I discovered my true calling.” Lara considers it a privilege to be a wedding photographer. “These amazing people entrust me to capture and document their special day so they can enjoy the memories forever. That’s some serious responsibility... but with it comes a huge sense of pride and passion! I love knowing that my couples and their loved ones will get to relive the day all over again, through my lens. “With that in mind, I get my thrills from capturing those quiet, unseen moments – nana’s beaming smile as she wipes her fuchsia lippy from her grandson’s cheek, the flower girls not so subtle sneaking of lollies from the candy bar, or the sheer delight on my couples’ faces as they call each other by ‘husband’ or ‘wife’ for the first time! It’s these seemingly mundane, but honest and beautiful moments that keep me coming back for more.” Lara says she hopes she can reassure couples who are having their weddings “during these crazy Covid times” that while the climate in which weddings are taking place has changed, the special moments are still there – “as strong, if not stronger than ever before”. W For more information visit soulsisters-photography.co.nz 132 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

Photographed by LaRosa Weddings Photography

create and build your dream centrepiece for your dream wedding reception.” “More importantly, we know the stress of organising your perfect day, which is why we make sure your experience is as simple and stress-free as possible, from the initial consultation to the big day itself,” she says. As well as their exceptional expertise in decoration, Sweet Bites offer more than 50 cake flavours from the more traditional (chocolate, vanilla, banana, lemon and red velvet) through to white chocolate and manuka honey, pineapple lump, cherry ripe, lime and coconut and cookies & cream – with plenty of gluten free and dairy and egg free options. W For more information visit sweetbitescakes.co.nz

Photography @marionhweddings Planning + Design @ohsuchstyle Florals @sandylau_floralart Furniture Rentals @darbyandgrey Rentals @theprettypropshop Gown @daisybrides.co.nz Hair + Make Up @eleanordornmakeup Models Ella + Niko @uniquemodelmanagement

A New Zealand-first bar experience! The Land Yacht Bar brings sleek sophistication to your wedding and a perfect back drop to any location. The bar boasts a VIP lounge area, private bathroom and a 5m x 3m covered outdoor area for you to relax in style. Indoor outdoor Bose sound system has bluetooth to allow you to play the perfect music to enhance your day. Glassware, bar leaners and bar stools are all provided to set the scene. Make your wedding one to remember.

thelandyachtbar.co.nz

PLA N NING

Behind the Scenes I was told my stepdaughter had to be my bridesmaid ANONYMOUS My stepdaughter and I have a good relationship, but we are not close. When my engagement to her father was announced, my husband’s family assumed that she would be one of my bridesmaids. No one asked me what I wanted. She’s a nice girl, but we also had our issues and at that time, I wasn’t comfortable with her taking on that role. Also, she had not met my friends and my sister who lived overseas and were my other bridesmaids. I wanted my ‘bride tribe’ to be easy and relaxed and for us to laugh and joke through the wedding planning stage, and I knew my stepdaughter, who was a moody teenager at that time, would not blend in easily. In the end, I decided to not rock the boat and make my husbandto-be and his family happy, and I asked my stepdaughter to be a bridesmaid. She accepted. I invited her to join a WhatsApp group with my five other bridesmaids (some who were abroad) so that we could keep in touch daily and share ideas about dresses etc before the wedding, but my stepdaughter never got around to downloading WhatsApp. I asked her several times to do this over many months, and she never did. Then when I was told she was feeling left out, I offered to do it for her. When I bought her bridesmaid dress, her first comment was that it didn’t fit, and it was too long. I explained that it was a wraparound, one-size-fits-all relaxed style, and that the length could easily be taken up by a dressmaker. Everyone loved the dress, except my stepdaughter. She said her mother knew a dressmaker 134 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

and that she could get the dress taken up. I said great. When she turned up at the wedding, her dress hadn’t been taken up, and she was walking on the hem with her shoes. I was so angry as it could have easily ruined the photographs, but luckily it wasn’t too noticeable. I honestly think it was her mother’s decision to just leave the dress as it was, which she may have done out of spite. I regret now not taking my stepdaughter to get the dress adjusted, but she said she would do it, and I was incredibly busy at the time. I was preparing to move overseas, and arrange a wedding, and all with a busy toddler in tow. In the end, my stepdaughter enjoyed the wedding and got on fine with my bridesmaids. We all had fun. But there was a lot of frustration and stress attached to the preparations because of expectations that were placed on me. I felt that this was unfair, but in the end, I am glad she was my bridesmaid. She loves her father dearly, and he was so happy to have her play such a big part of our special day. As our relationship develops and improves as she grows older and more mature, I’m happy that we can look back on our wedding photos and she is in them. But I would advise other brides in the same situation to either put your foot down and stick to your guns, or to take more control of the situation, and don’t leave it up to your stepdaughter (and especially not her mother) to get the hem of her bridesmaid dress taken up! W

Wine for your Celebration Elegant style of wine with great structure and delicious flavours and aromas

F

or those who fancy locallymade, premium-quality fizz for their big day, Nautilus Estate has been producing its soughtafter Cuvée Marlborough Brut NV from its small, family-owned winery for three decades now. “Marlborough is a beautiful and exciting place to make wines and Nautilus Estate has been doing exactly that since 1985,” says Nautilus winemaker Clive Jones. “And our Cuvée Marlborough Brut NV has been an important part of the portfolio of Nautilus Estate since the first tirage was laid down in 1991 – 30 years ago.” Clive says Nautilus recognised that Marlborough’s cool climate was particularly suited to making quality Methode Traditionelle and quickly introduced this wine to its portfolio. “Two specific vineyard sites are managed to produce fruit for Nautilus Cuvée, one for Pinot Noir and one for Chardonnay. The varietal composition is a blend of approximately 75 percent Pinot Noir and 25 percent Chardonnay,” he explains. “All grapes are handpicked and chilled before being whole bunch-pressed. A traditional press cut is done at 500 litres per tonne to obtain the finest juice fraction. The individual base wines are fermented with selected champagne yeast and left on lees while undergoing a full malolactic fermentation in the traditional Champenoise style.”

“Blending typically occurs in September, and at this stage, a portion of reserve wine is introduced to add complexity and character to the Cuvée in a traditional non-vintage style. The reserve wine consists of base wine held back from the previous vintage and aged for 12 months in old oak barrels. The blend is then bottled and undergoes a secondary fermentation before being aged for a minimum of 36 months before disgorging and release.” The result? An incredibly delicious drop that Clive describes as “serious, savoury and complex”. He says the focus at Nautilus is to create a refined, elegant style of wine with great structure and delicious flavours and aromas – a wine that is perfect for a celebration or any occasion. “Our energetic and innovative viticultural and winemaking team takes the approach of blending several different fruit parcels to achieve layers of complexity in the wines, focusing on their texture and mouth-feel. Our state-of-theart but small-scale winemaking facilities give them the tools to achieve this.” And while Nautilus wines can easily be enjoyed on their own, Clive notes they are even better when paired with delicious food. “The philosophy of creating foodfriendly wines is paramount for us,” he says. W For more information visit nautilusestate.com n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z | 135

PLA N NING

Elegant Wedding VENUE Dance the night away knowing your luxurious accommodation is just down the corridor.

A

fter recently throwing open its doors to show off a stunning makeover, Fable Dunedin has added yet another compelling reason to visit in the form of a full event/wedding service complete with a choice of four fabulous spaces within its historic walls. The 1860s Victorian Italianate-style hotel underwent a magnificent restoration in 2020 by leading New Zealand interior architects and designers who brought to life a contemporary tale of high-end luxury, while honouring the heritage building’s original historic features. “Fable Dunedin can cater to any style of gathering, from an intimate affair to something grander in scale, with four main event spaces to choose from,” says general manager Sally Reiber. “Our new wedding packages are designed to take the stress out of your special day and make it an event to remember. Our elegant venue, wedding menus and decorations can be tailored to suit your requirements and budget. Unique art and a touch of whimsy create a romantic ambience perfect for celebration and a beautiful backdrop for wedding photos you’ll treasure for a lifetime.” Sally says when it comes to events, the hotel’s grand piece de resistance are the Chancellor Room and Lounge. “With its polished wooden floors and a magnificent chandelier, the Chancellor Lounge instils the grandness of the hotel and offers the perfect spot for your first dance as a married couple,” she says. Possibly the best part though is that you and your guests can dance the night away knowing your luxurious accommodation is just down the corridor. With 50 rooms and suites and an onsite bar restaurant The Press Club, there’s space to gather your guests together, prepare for your big day or extend your celebration into the days that follow. At 49sqm, the Wains Suite, named after the hotel’s original owner, offers Fable’s most prestigious accommodation with an impressive and well-appointed space where exceptional attention has been paid to every detail to create an unforgettable stay. Nothing short of breathtaking, with a separate king-size bedroom, cosy lounge and dining area and large ensuite with bathtub, it’s made for honeymoons. W For more information visit fablehotelsandresorts.com 136 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

CHEESE WHEEL CAKE FOR YOUR S P E C I A L C E L E B R AT I O N

PUHOIVALLEY.CO.NZ 09 422 0670

PLA N NING

Tips for Environmentally FRIENDLY WEDDINGS Waste minimisation expert, Kate Meads of Waste Free with Kate & Co. shares 10 simple tips for a waste-freer wedding.

S

o you’re busy planning your special day and you want it to be perfect. There are many, simple things you can do to transform your big day into a more environmentally friendly event. I really want to highlight that there’s no need to stress over every last decision to ensure you’re taking the sustainable option every time.

Here are 10 easy ways to incorporate waste-freer changes: 1. I N V I TAT I O N S

In this digital age, opting for paperless invitations is more than acceptable and easier than ever before, using readily available free software tools, such as Canva. 2 . R E N T YO U R D R ES S

This is what I did. Hiring my dress meant I could wear a stunning gown, worth $15,000, but that only cost me $400! I did buy my veil, because I wanted to keep something as a memory from the day. 3. H I R E , H I R E , H I R E

Wedding essentials and decorations are often specific to one theme and are never used again or even worse, are thrown away. 138 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

Briar and Scott Milne’s wedding arch was originally made for Scott’s sister’s wedding and has been used multiple times since.

marked, so that guests know what waste goes where. If you do this, the recycling will be much easier to sort when it comes to packing up at the end. 8. G U EST FAVO U R A LT E R N AT I V ES

Consider hiring crockery, tablecloths, table settings, and other decorations. 4. S U STA I N A B L E D ECO R AT I O N S

Ask yourself what can you use that is made from paper instead of plastic? One idea is to make green leaf confetti, created by hole punching real leaves to make an organic and biodegradable alternative.

Guest favours are a nice idea but are often lost or left behind in the excitement of the celebration. As an alternative, what about donating to a sustainable charity or initiative on behalf of your guests? If you do provide a gift, opt for something with minimal packaging such as homemade fudge wrapped in paper. 9. C H O OS E YO U R V E N U E W I S E LY

5. F O O D A N D D R I N K

Not only does over-catering cost more, but it leads to wasted food. Try to incorporate any leftovers into lunch the next day. Another idea is to opt for a keg instead of using only bottled beer and wine. The same goes for plates and cutlery, as single-use options will likely usually end up in landfill, which is a problem even if they claim to be biodegradable or compostable! 6. P L AST I C V G L AS S A N D/O R C E R A M I C

Hired glass or ceramic options are far more environmentally friendly than single-use plastic options, and much nicer to drink from. 7. I N C LU D E A D I S P OSA L P L A N

Ensure bins at the venue are clearly

The venue choice will play a large role in how sustainable you can make your wedding. It’s ok to ask the venue what their policy is when it comes to waste; they may even have some procedures in place. 1 0. P H OTOS – D I TC H D I S P OSA B L E CA M E R AS

Disposable cameras create more waste. You can easily collate and share the best photos taken by your guests through the clever use of apps such as Snapchat, or storage solutions like Dropbox. W Kate Meads aka Waste Free with Kate & Co. [email protected] 027 211242

PLA N NING

Photographed by Sheri McMahon

Photographed by Marion H

FLORAL Design

Photographed by Nisha Ravji

Our entire focus is weddings and events

G

etting married on Waiheke Island? You’ll want to get in touch with Wildflower’s Zoë Southwood, as you’ll not only get your floral requirements beautifully sorted – she’s also a wealth of knowledge on everything Waiheke, from venues to vendors. “We’re the largest (and longest running) floral design business on the island, so we know the place - and every single venue - inside out,” says Zoë. “We know what works and what doesn’t, what looks best in each space and who the best vendors are to work with. And we’re more than happy to share this insider knowledge with you to ensure your perfect day is just that: perfect.” We’re purely based on Waiheke and have been for over 20 years. Our entire focus is weddings and events so we know

the best ways to utilise florals in each venue to really elevate the space while still making sure that each wedding is unique, always making sure that everything we do is reflective of our couples,” she says. “We also have a rather large range of vases and candles we’ve sourced specifically to complement the venues we work at – including making sure that the candles comply with the venues’ open flame policies.” And not only is Zoë an expert on the island, she’s also a total pro when it comes to all things flower-related, renowned for her instinctive ability to create dream florals for every wedding, and always across the latest trends. “I feel like I’m getting a lot of reference images from European weddings at the moment – lots of garden blooms, candles and beautiful linens,” she says of what’s

currently trending. “Either that or the more modern/contemporary style with lots of florals and less greenery everywhere. The usual colours – white, blush and greens – are still really popular but we have quite a few weddings coming through with pops of orange, yellow or pink, which is quite fun!” What’s she most looking forward to for the coming wedding season? “I’m always really happy when peony season comes around, they’ve always been a favourite of mine as they can pack such a punch with the bright pinks and corals in large scale installations and arches. But I’ve recently seen spray roses used in some interesting ways so I’m excited to use those a little more this season too.” W For more information visit wildflowerwaiheke.com n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z | 139

PLA N NING

ASK WENDY Wedding advice Answers to some tricky wedding questions.

I REALLY WANT TO GIVE MY BRIDESMAIDS A GIF T, BUT DON’ T KNOW WHERE TO START. CAN YOU GIVE ME SOME IDEAS PLEASE?

Gifts for bridesmaids is a very personal choice, including whether or not you actually give them gifts (not everyone does). Gift ideas range from a single item, through to a gift basket or box with a range of things included. You can choose how personal you make it. The types of things you might choose include: F A champagne glass and small bottle of champagne F Alternatively a miniature of their favourite spirit with a mixer and a tumbler F If you want you can get glasses made that have their name on it, or simply “Bridesmaid” F Chocolates or sweet treats F Personalised cookies F Jewellery – earrings, necklace, bracelet – especially if you want them to wear something special on your wedding day F Pamper items such as a bath bomb, face mask, lip balm, perfumed soap, etc F Perfume F Compact mirror F Framed photo of the two of you F Candle F Make up case Pinterest is a great source of inspiration too.

If you have a question you would like to ask please email [email protected] with ‘Ask Wendy’ in the subject line. Proudly sponsored by Tui Hills, Wedding and Events Venue in the Styled West. 140 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

Bridal Boudoir

F

PHOTOGRAPHY

or couples or brides- and grooms-to-be looking for wedding photos that are outside the box, Kathryn Bamber of Kathryn Louise Photography’s bridal boudoir photos offer something special. “Bridal boudoir is a growing trend for groom wedding gifts and I think it’s a great idea for any relationship,” says Kathryn. “It’s the kind of gift that’s totally unexpected – personal and intimate. The images are something that will be appreciated and loved. It’s different, courageous and special.” “We often see ourselves a certain way, never wanting to believe friends and family when they tell us otherwise. This is why I got into doing boudoir photography. I want to change that and help others see themselves as they truly are.” Kathryn says she views the images “as a gift that goes both ways – it’s an empowering experience for anyone, and always gets great feedback from partners”. “Bridal boudoir can include props if the client is wanting to – generally these include a bouquet, veil and/or garter and possibly the bridal lingerie. I like to try and get some detail shots of the engagement ring too,” says Kathryn. “The photoshoot doesn’t have to be bridalthemed though and I have had many brides simply wear their partner’s favourite lingerie set. Kathryn says most brides get the images done as prints, though she also offers small albums as well as just the digitals. “I’ve worked with a bride who decided to do prints as a ‘scavenger hunt’ for the groom the day before the wedding, while another sent a digital image to her significant other every couple of hours the day before. It’s the kind of gift that has many options.” W

For more information visit kathrynlouisephotography.co.nz

TRULY Stunning Located on Tamaki Drive, Okahu offers an Auckland waterfront wedding venue unlike any other.



The most special thing about Okahu has to be the unique setting,” says event manager Heitor Lima. “Unlike any other venue in Auckland, it’s positioned directly over the water. The view is a tactile experience, one is part of the vista and can see, hear and breathe the ocean. “The daylight showcases Auckland’s best assets; the city skyline highlighted by the Sky Tower, the Harbour Bridge, North Head, Rangitoto Island and the playground of Waitemata Harbour. At nightfall, the city illuminates providing a backdrop of twinkling brilliance and passing ships are a sight to behold.” For something old and something new: Heitor says the bones of Okahu are part of Auckland’s history, dating back to 1908, while inside the venue has had a recent upgrade and been given a fresh new look. “The original brick combines tastefully with the modern build giving both a vintage feel and elegant modern ambience,” he says. “Everyone who steps inside is transfixed. Greeted by attentive staff, beautiful chandeliers, greenery, an intimate bar, a sophisticated dining space and that striking view – Okahu is truly stunning!” Located in Orakei near Mission Bay just 15 minutes from central Auckland and with ample free car parking, Okahu can comfortably host up to 150 guests. Another point of difference that’s set to make it one of the most sought-after spots in the city: from this season Okahu is also offering clients the options of providing their own catering or a dry venue hire. “This is proving an attractive opportunity as not many venues of this calibre offer this kind of flexibility,” says Heitor. “Combined with Okahu’s excellent service, this is definitely worth consideration to add your own dynamic to your special day.” W

For more information visit, okahu.co.nz n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z | 141

PLA N NING

Dream Gift Registry

F

or the past nine years, Mildred and Co have been helping hundreds of New Zealand couples create their dream gift registry. Unlike other registry providers, Mildred and Co is there to help at each step throughout the process from set up to delivery. “We love helping our brides and grooms curate their dream gift list and no two registries are ever the same,” says director Tamsin George. “Mildred’s vast collection of products spans all categories, across hundreds of brands and at all price points. But if there’s something a couple would really like, and they can’t find it – we are more than happy to try and source it for them. We like to go the extra mile to make each couple registry as unique as they are,” says Tamsin. They also offer a ‘contribution’ feature where guests can chip in towards the price of a more expensive gift. “This is unique to us and is a really popular tool,” she adds. “We select our products and brands carefully – they have to be premium, iconic, classic and made to last. We work with some of the world’s best brands and proudly stock New Zealand brands and even artists.” Once ordered, Mildred and Co collate all the gifts, wrap them and write handwritten cards and notes from guests.

Have you noticed any particular trends in wedding gifting? I’m always surprised how many people still want the more traditional gifts of toasters, kettles, pots and pans, but what I do love is that they are choosing the better quality brands like Le Creuset, Scanpan and WMF. Mostly though, our couples are really thinking broadly beyond the traditional and ‘expected to include’ items that are really fun. It should be no surprise given our outdoor lifestyle but we see a lot of camping, picnic items bought for couples including games, chilly bins, tents and picnic rugs, chiller bags etc. We’re also seeing couples wisely choose a piece of furniture to add to their homes, 142 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

or something a bit more special like a mirror from New Zealand designers Tim Webber or Joska & Sons. Cut crystal is on trend at the moment and I’m delighted to see couples choose the beautiful chunky DOF glasses, which will last forever. We’re also seeing a trend in smoke glass wine glasses, black dinner plate sets and then brightly coloured dinner sets too. We have an excellent selection of dinner sets, but more and more people are mixing up the options and choosing something a bit more different than the plain white. We are seeing lots of linen duvet sets and sheets, plus the beautiful Baina towels are hugely popular too.

What are some tips for putting together a dream gift list? Don’t be shy! Don’t be afraid to include some items you’d really love that might feel expensive (remember our contribution feature allows many guests to chip in). I always tell my couples to consider it their own unique boutique and as such to include as wide a variety of items at all different price points. Guests want to buy something meaningful – by that I mean that it’s meaningful to them or maybe it’s part of an inside joke. So, it might be gin or whisky glasses, a Kubb Set, beach towels or a book of somewhere they’ve travelled together, baking items because they know them as the baker. I also suggest they don’t just think of where they’re living now, but where they might be in a year or two’s time. So get the extra linen, duvet cover and pillows for the spare room. Put the KitchenAid stand mixer for guests to chip in towards or the espresso coffee machine or Weber BBQ. These are the items that you can’t always buy yourself but you’ll be so incredibly grateful for when you receive them. Another suggestion is to choose beautiful pieces like vases, bowls, trays and art – things to elevate spaces. We have New Zealand artists pieces like the super popular Simon Lewis Wards ceramic lollies, plus Margaret Petchell’s Tui print. W

PLA N NING

New Owners

FOR AUCKLAND’S FAVOURITE

Wedding Venue Gracehill has been the backdrop to thousands of weddings since the early 2000’s



Remember this day is all about you.” That’s the advice for wedding couples from the new owner of West Auckland venue Gracehill Vineyard Estate. “I see it too often – couples who are so hung up on having everything just right, worrying about their guests, the food, the weather, you name it, that they forget to enjoy what should be the happiest day of their lives,” says Ruth Carpenter. “I’m here to see that they get the service they need, to make sure the big day is a breeze, and everyone has a great time.” Ruth and her company, Simply Events, bought the venue in May, taking over the running of the Kumeu venue fully in September. “We know what a fantastic opportunity this is to work with couples from all over Auckland who come out west to enjoy the countryside and the get-away-from-itall feeling. “I’m looking forward to carrying on Gracehill’s tradition of friendly service at reasonable prices.” Billed as “Auckland’s favourite wedding venue”, Gracehill has been the backdrop to thousands of weddings since the early 2000s, owned and operated by the Roodt family for most of that time. “There are so many great things about Gracehill. We have no plans to make wholesale changes. “The aim is to use our experience in the wedding business to enhance what’s already there. Our moto is ‘the same but better’,” says Ruth, who also owns nearby Swanson venue Tui Hills. There, Ruth and her team created a premium option for couples in early 2019, with extensive renovations to enhance the

look and functionality of the character venue with its native garden setting. “Before that, we’d been involved in the pop-up wedding business and learned a huge amount about how to provide couples with the service they needed. “At Gracehill, all of what we’ve learned from pop-ups and Tui Hills will be of use I’m sure, although we’re also working closely with the team that’s already there, in particular the very experienced chef John Flack and General Manager William Adair. “Keeping them on board is a huge bonus. What William and John don’t know about Gracehill could probably be written on the back of an envelope.” Whilst wholesale refurbishment of the venue isn’t on the cards, there are a couple of projects that are hoped to be finished in year one to enhance the experience for couples and guests. “We’re starting off with an upgrade of the current bride’s room which will be more spacious, furnished with new couches, a full-length mirror and a hair and make-up station. “The Tui Suite at Tui Hills has been a huge hit with brides in particular because

of the convenience and facilities on offer. We hope to reproduce a lot of that at Gracehill. With any luck, the refurbishment will be finished by the end of October.” The second, bigger project will be to extend the dancefloor area to make a much larger indoor space for functions, and weddings in rainy weather. “Although it’s relatively rare for weddings to be disrupted by rain, having that bigger wet weather option will be a great addition. “At this stage, we’re looking at having that available for the 2022-23 wedding season”. Couples will also be able to hire more items for their weddings, such as a digital photo booth, wooden archway, neon signs and LOVE letters from Simply Events’ stock. “These are great options to add some extra style to the wedding at competitive prices, with no delivery fees and zero hassle.” W Gracehill Vineyard Estate, 34 Pomona Road, Kumeu gracehill.co.nz n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z | 143

GIFTS

GOOD FINDS FOR

HOME & GIFTS Need some ideas for your registry? Shop right here. 1

2

13

14

12

10

11

3

4

9

5

COMPILED BY JOSIE STEENHART

8

7

6

1 AB handblown glass and marble table lamp, $690 at Citta 2 Juliette Hogan silk cushion cover in Cloud, $125 3 By Vera Wang For Wedgwood

Duchesse crystal toasting flute pair, $250 at Mildred & Co 4 Circa fragrance diffuser in Oceanique, $50 5 KitchenAid Artisan Mini stand mixer in Pink, $1000 at Mildred & Co 6 Donna Hay One Pan Perfect cookbook, $55 7 Ecoya Grand Celebration candle, $120 8 Kylee Newton The Modern Preserver’s Kitchen cookbook, $50 9 Slip silk pillowcase in Caramel, $109 at Mecca 10 Napoleon Goods chilly bin in Sage, $195 at Father Rabbit 11 Basil Hayden’s Kentucky bourbon whiskey, $80 12 Bialetti Moka 6-cup espresso maker, $115 13 GHD Platinum Desire limited edition styler gift set, $410 14 Hotel Magique Sail Away With Me unframed print, $95 at Father Rabbit

144 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

Photo BRESLAVTSEV OLEG

Extraordinary Honeymoon

Experiences in

d n a l s n e e u Q

Reefsuites offer private undersea accommodation and uninterrupted views of the Great Barrier Reef

Imagine floor-to-ceiling views of the spectacular underwater world of the world-heritage listed Great Barrier Reef – all from the comfort of your own private honeymoon suite! Australia’s first underwater accommodation, Reefsuites is located on the 40-metre Reefworld pontoon, 40 nautical miles from Airlie Beach, and operated by Journey Beyond, Australia’s leading experiential tourism company. Moored offshore at Hardy Reef, Reefworld is the setting for your spectacular overnight honeymoon experience. Relaunched in 2019, the revamped pontoon hosts day trippers, on-deck Reefsleep guests and a lucky few who’ll head below deck for a private, all-inclusive Reefsuite experience. Begin your honeymoon with a cruise through the Whitsunday Islands to Hardy Reef onboard a high-speed vessel, arriving at the reef around 11am. After lunch, the happy honeymooners can snorkel, dive, swim or take a scenic helicopter flight to see the famous Heart Reef (for an additional cost). Day visitors depart mid-afternoon and then overnight guests (you!) have Hardy Reef and Reefworld all to themselves. Enjoy a stunning sunset with a drink in hand before enjoying a romantic, starlit long-table dinner on the pontoon’s upper deck. After dinner, Reefsuite guests can retreat to the privacy of their undersea accommodation. Lying four metres below the surface of the Coral Sea, each of the neutral-toned rooms feature dramatic floor-to-ceiling glass walls and a glass floor panel providing unrestricted views into the magical world of the Great Barrier Reef. At night, guests can control the in-water lights to maximise night-time viewing of the marine creatures while they are most active, and all from the comfort of a king-sized bed or twin configuration. Each suite comes with a private ensuite, shower and a loo with a view. A dividing wall between the two suites can be retracted to create one oversized suite to fit four people in a single domicile. A live-in chef prepares delicious cuisine with a focus on produce direct from the local catchments of Bowen, the Burdekin and the surrounding ocean. Prices are all-inclusive of food and drinks (one breakfast, two morning and afternoon teas, buffet lunch and an exceptional dinner experience); with optional extras such as heli-scenic flights, scuba diving, photos and cocktails. Reefsuites give a whole new meaning to ‘a room with a view’ and you’ll awake to witness marine life going about another day inside the world-heritage listed reef they call home. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and an exclusive morning on the reef before heading home with memories that will stay with you forever. 146 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

Photographed by Crystalbrook Collection

Photographed by Tourism and Events Queensland H I G H L I G H T S & I N C LU S I O N S

• • •

• • • • •

Arrive at your unique honeymoon accommodation via a scenic cruise through the Whitsundays Avail of two underwater room options (king double or twin single) Each room features premium bedding, a glass-walled en suite and floor-to-ceiling views of the spectacular underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef All meals including breakfast, morning and afternoon teas, lunch and dinner All beverages including beer and wine (cocktails and spirits at an additional cost) Enjoy a spectacular dining experience under the stars Activities at the reef include a private guided snorkelling tour and semi-submarine tour Access to the underwater observatory.

Check out cruisewhitsundays.com/experiences/reefsuites

HON EY MOONS

Head to Cairns to sample the uber-modern luxury destination trio of Crystalbrook Hotels C RY STA L B RO O K CO L L ECT I O N

The Crystalbrook Collection hotel boom started with the opening of the 311 room, five-star Riley in November 2018. The hotel conglomerate is now complete with two new ‘babies’ adding another 831 rooms and 14 restaurants to Cairns’ exceptional luxury tourism offering. The three hotels include Riley, opened in 2018, Bailey, opened November 2019, and Flynn, opened in 2020. At their completion, developer Ghassan Aboud has injected a further $700 million into the Cairns holiday market, adding to the existing Crystalbrook Lodge and Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina at Port Douglas.

Photographed by Crystalbrook Collection

C RY STA L B RO O K R I L E Y

Grandly located on the northern end of The Esplanade (at the former Tradewinds site) the $130 million Riley hotel offers spectacular front-row views over the Coral Sea. It also boasts one of the biggest resort pools in the city at 1037 square metres, a 12th floor rooftop bar called Rocco (Cairns’ highest), an Eléme Day Spa, and three new restaurants, including Paper Crane, which promises a heady mix of the Australian tropics and Southeast Asian cuisine. 131 Esplanade, crystalbrookcollection.com/riley C RY STA L B RO O K BA I L E Y

Bailey, the second-born Crystalbrook Collection hotel, adds bucket loads of personality and style with its bold green exterior and skyline views. There’s an ever-evolving celebration of art in the public spaces as well as each of the 12 guestroom floors, as artists in residence are invited to exhibit their style. Bailey houses two restaurants, including Pachamama, but the standout is sure to be the Milk Bar where childhood favourites such as strawberry and cream jubes are sprinkled over old-fashioned milkshakes. 163 Abbott Street, crystalbrookcollection.com/bailey

Photographed by Crystalbrook Collection

C RY STA L B RO O K F LY N N

Described as the wild child of the hotel trio, the 311-room Flynn rises from The Esplanade directly opposite the popular Cairns Lagoon. Flynn is on a mission to entertain. Two glass swimming pools literally ‘hang’ over a restaurant-come-night market that features up to six food stalls and live music. Additionally, there is a 220-seat Italian restaurant called Flynn’s, a vintage 70s-inspired Whiskey & Wine Bar and Crystalbrook Collection’s signature Eléme Day Spa. Flynn has everything guests need to satisfy their wanderlust needs: jaw-dropping views of the Coral Sea from each balcony, fun-loving glass bottomed hotel pools, an Eléme Day Spa, 24-hour gym, and 311 stylish rooms and honeymoon suites. For those wanting to live it up, suites on the top three floors of the Esplanade tower offer guests the ultimate-luxe tropical escape, with large balconies where you can laze the day away. The ground-level restaurant, Boardwalk Social, opened in January and proved to be an instant hit with locals, cementing this venue as the new place to be in Cairns. 85 The Esplanade, crystalbrookcollection.com/flynn For more information visit, crystalbrookcollection.com

Photographed by Crystalbrook Collection

HON EY MOONS

WHAT’S NEXT FOR TRAVEL?… Anita Gatley: Wedding Travel Specialist As Australia currently grapples with the highly infectious Delta variant our Trans-Tasman bubble is currently paused. As I write this we are just heading into the second week of a complete NZ lockdown as our Covid-19 numbers increase daily. We knew this was coming and it was only a matter of time before the Delta strain entered our community; however, it didn’t make it any easier when it was announced we had Covid back in the community. Consequently, the Rarotonga bubble, which was going fantastically, has also been paused until we get the outbreak under control. Quarantine-free travel began on 18 May ‘21 with a fully booked flight from Auckland Airport to Rarotonga. Local Cook Island businesses were relishing looking after tourists who were thirsting for a South Pacific holiday after borders being closed for over a year. We weren’t exactly sure how it would be “handled” if there was a Covid outbreak in Rarotonga but it was NZ that had the outbreak. We have seen the airlines allow their customers to complete their holiday and then return to their residence even if they lived regionally in NZ. In the early days of the outbreak travellers going to Rarotonga were required to have a negative Covid-test prior to travelling before the bubble was totally closed. Since then some of the resorts are now requiring tourists to be vaccinated and I can see this becoming the norm for the country, although nothing has been formalised at this stage. The Ministry of Health in NZ is working with their international counterparts to develop ‘digital travel certificates’ which will record our Covid -19 health status; so be prepared to have one of these before you travel in the future. Once the vaccine roll-out is complete I suspect there will be a significant policy change and international travel will be for vaccinated travellers only starting with Australia and the Cook Islands. So while you can get vaccinated - if not for you and your family but for our team of 5 million, if you ever want to travel internationally again. W

Planning a trip? Let Anita make it easier for you. Visit weddingtravel.co.nz or email her at [email protected]

DESTINATIONS

to love

COMING UP

150 Taupo

152 Matakana

154 Northland

156 Queenstown

158

Cook Islands

162

Samoa

Photo JAM TRAVELS

Gold Awarded

CHOCOLATIERS

P

taupo VISIT NEWZEALANDWEDDINGS.CO.NZ FOR MORE

aul & Sande Jansen from Volcanic Chocolate trained with some of the best Chocolatiers in the world at Savour Chocolate & Patisserie School based in Melbourne. Coming back to New Zealand and their home in the Central Plateau, they decided to produce chocolate bon bons that celebrate the colour’s of the region; – the mountains and volcanoes, the bushland and scenery, and our numerous lakes and rivers and combining the best ingredients they could source to produce a product like none other. Volcanic Chocolate won a Gold and a Bronze Award in the 2020 New Zealand Chocolate Awards for their Calamansi and Layered Coconut Bon Bons.

For more information visit volcanicchocolate.co.nz

150 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

TAU P O

DIAMOND LASER MEDISPA • Our wedding makeup artists take care of bridal makeup, styling and everything that goes with it • Over 16 years’ experience from makeup, facial’s, massage, manicures, pedicures to wedding spray tans • Taupo’s only certified Youngblood makeup artist and we also use our amazing airbrush makeup

JOHN TAYLOR JEWELLERS John Taylor Jewellers has been at the forefront of quality, custom jewellery in Taupo for over 20years. Whether you want a stunning engagement ring, wedding band or any occasion jewellery, the team will work with you to create a unique and meaningful piece that tells your story and holds your memories for a lifetime.

Diamond Laser Medispa

John Taylor Jewellers

10a Totara St, Totara Point Shopping Centre, Taupo

8 Heu Heu Street Taupo 07 3774123

[email protected]

[email protected]

WEDDING DANCE NZ Learning to dance is fun. We can teach you the basics of several dances so you will not only impress your guests with your first dance but you’ll also be able to dazzle them at the reception. Dancing together is a lifelong skill you can learn and something you can share together forever.

VOLCANIC CHOCOLATE LTD Boutique chocolate business located in the central North Island where we create our colourful hand-crafted artisan chocolates using Callebaut Chocolate from Belgium. We combine the very best ingredients we can source to make our unique flavours.

Wedding Dance NZ

Volcanic Chocolate

[email protected]

www.volcanicchocolate.co.nz

022 319 0092

[email protected] 07 386 7726 or 0274 363 415

ta upo

07 378 4823 or 027 331 7040



Matakana VISIT NEWZEALANDWEDDINGS.CO.NZ FOR MORE

QUALITY HIRE FOR YOUR DAY IF YOU’RE THROWING ANY KIND OF PART Y FROM SILVERDALE TO CAPE REINGA , YOUR FIRST STOP NEEDS TO BE CARLTON PART Y HIRE.

CLEAR & WHITE MARQUEES CROSSBACK CHAIRS CHILLER TRAILERS & FRIDGES

29 Glenmore Drive Warkworth

We are also the only locally owned and operated event hire business in Warkworth servicing the Matakana Coast,’’ says co-owner Melita Campbell, who runs the company with husband Grant. With an extensive background in the events and hospitality industry, Melita knows parties. She has owned a bespoke catering company and worked as a private chef overseas. Prior to moving to the Matakana region she ran the V8 Supercars event in Hamilton and Pukekohe and currently also works as an event director for a leading New Zealand concert promoter. After running several large events in the Matakana area and having to freight hire equipment from Auckland, Melita and Grant realised there was a gap in the market for a local spot providing quality hire items and great customer service, and opened Carlton

BARS & BAR LEANERS WOODEN TABLES & CROCKERY, CUTLERY & GLASSWARE TABLE LINEN LIGHTING & SOUND UMBRELLAS & GAZEBOS

phone 09 425 8682

www.carltonpartyhire.co.nz

M ATA K A NA

Party Hire in Warkworth in 2016. With pohutukawa-lined white sand beaches, top wineries and rolling countryside, the Rodney region and further north makes for spectacular backdrop for weddings, and Carlton Party Hire is a one-stop-shop for everything you might need to ensure your special day is just that, offering everything from glassware, tableware and lighting to refrigeration, catering equipment, barbecues and spits and a large assortment of furniture. There’s also fun items such as popcorn and candy floss machines to really set your big day apart – and don’t forget the mirrorball! “Our marquees are really popular for those getting married on family properties or farms and we have them available in either stylish white or clear to maximise the views,” says Melita.

“We specialise in bespoke bars, which are handmade by our team. Our white bars never go out of style and are the perfect blank canvas for decals and florals. We recommend using two bars together to create a long 4-metre bar, giving your bar staff plenty of space to create bespoke cocktails.” “We also work closely with lots of fabulous vendors in the Matakana region including Event Junkies to help plan, style and run your day and Source Kitchen for catering,” says Melita. What’s trending in wedding styling? Melita says they’re seeing “lots of bright colours this season in both florals and linen – pink linen tablecloths, minty sage napkins paired with hot pink and vivid florals and dried flowers.” For more information visit; carltonpartyhire.co.nz

Matakana n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z | 153

Photographed by Whangarei Quarry Gardens.

Photographed by Donkey Bay Inn.

Nort hland VISIT NEWZEALANDWEDDINGS.CO.NZ FOR MORE

GET MARRIED IN NEW ZEALAND’S ONLY

Subtropical Destination NORTHLAND IS NEW ZEALAND’S ONLY SUBTROPICAL DESTINATION AND THE PERFECT PLACE TO SAY “I DO” OR CELEBRATE YOUR MARRIAGE. SPRING STARTS EARLIER , SUMMER LINGERS LONGER AND WINTERS ARE MILD, SO FINDING THE PERFECT SPOT IS POSSIBLE ALMOST ANY TIME OF THE YEAR .

I

n a region known for stunning coastlines, impressive kauri forests, and off-the-beaten track adventures, Northland is a region full of natural beauty and a place to make unforgettable memories. The wild kauri coast offers up stunning stretches of wind-swept

154 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

sand, untouched rolling farmlands and quaint villages of yesteryear, the perfect backdrop for rustic countryside weddings. In contrast, the east coast is full of picturesque bays, coves and islands where white sands, crystal clear waters, and native bush combine provide stunning settings to exchange vows. Whether your planning to say “I do” barefoot in the sand under the pohutukawas, or create your fairytaleesque dream wedding, there’s a unique venue for every one and every budget. From impeccably manicured gardens, resort-style hotels, heritage properties, winery estates, a stone church on the waterfront, a simple beachfront bach or a breathtaking clifftop with ocean backdrop, you’ll be sure to find the

Photographed by Whangarei District Council.

perfect location. When it comes to keeping your guests happy you can’t go past the local food and beverage. Complement your beach wedding with fresh seafood, embrace tradition with a hangi in the birthplace of the nation at Waitangi Treaty Grounds, or go for fine dining and exceptional service by booking out a restaurant like the Duke of Marlborough. The subtropical climate means fresh delicious locally grown produce is always easily found, and there are a number of local wineries, craft breweries and boutique distilleries to source the perfect tipple to say cheers with. Along with the great food and beverage, your guests will love the feeling of getting away from it all, in a picturesque holiday

NORTHLA ND

destination. Turn your wedding into a weekend-long (or even week-long) celebration and include activities for the whole family, from sailing through the islands, visiting the very top of the country, getting off the beaten track or simply relaxing in luxury while every need is taken care of. You’ll find venues and accommodation for all group sizes around the region, whether you choose to hire out holiday homes and baches, embrace the effortlessness of a resort property, or go all-inclusive at one of the country’s finest luxury lodges. And the ease of getting to Northland means you’ll feel like you’ve had a lavish destination wedding without the international air fares, or lengthy travel times! Not only does Northland do weddings well, but there are plenty of options for a honeymoon you’ll never forget. Boutique and luxury lodges like Donkey Bay Inn, The Landing,

and Ara Roa Villas will make you feel like you’re the only people on earth. Combined with onsite massages, private chefs, and extensive grounds, you might never want to leave. Alternatively, go off-grid and enjoy the company of your new spouse, and the simpler things in life in some of the unique glamping offerings like Riverside Escapes or Wild Forest Estate. And for those who can’t, or don’t want to laze about all day, you’ll find plenty of hikes, cycle trails, and immersive and adventurous activities like parasailing, sandboarding, surfing, and skydiving. Whether you are looking for a picture-perfect postcard setting, a unique place to exchange vows, a fussfree destination wedding or a venue that can take care of your every need, you’ll be sure to find that perfect special place in Northland. For more information visit; northlandnz.com

Photographed by Waitangi Treaty Grounds.

W EDDINGS AT THE

Celebrate your wedding at a New Zea land icon in the beautif ul Bay of Islands. The Duke of Marlborough Hotel offers a unique wedding experience where you can embrace the histor y and charm of New Zea land ’s f irst licensed hotel which has been operating since 1827. Located on the waterfront in the heart of romantic Russel l, The Duke is a tr uly majestic setting prov iding a st unning wedding destination for you and your g uests.

35 The Strand, Russel l, Bay of Islands. Ph: 09 403 7829 Mob: 021 198 5340 Email: f [email protected]

www.theduke.co.nz

n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z | 155

Nort hland

Please ca l l or email our f unction team for specif ic information for your wedding

Queenstown VISIT NEWZEALANDWEDDINGS.CO.NZ FOR MORE

Say “I Do” on A GLACIER Written by YVONNE KERR

D

reaming of an intimate wedding with a uniquely adventurous Kiwi spirit? Queenstown and Wanaka-based wedding planning business Mountain Weddings offer a wide selection of bespoke elopement and intimate wedding packages. This Kiwi duo is passionate about coordinating destination weddings in the most epic mountain landscapes that is their backyard of Queenstown, Wanaka and Fiordland. Choose from more than 20 spectacular mountain locations to inspire your elopement or intimate wedding. Why not include two or three helicopter landing sights for a more diverse mountain, glacier or alpine lake experience? Go one step further and book an adventure elopement package, offering a full day of adventuring around Fiordland or Mt Aspiring National Park, Milford Sound, or the West Coast, and end with a breathtaking sunset. Mountain Weddings will pack your picnic, blankets and bubbles!

Hybrid elopement packages Pandemic-friendly hybrid elopement packages for 5-25 friends are also offered to include a ceremony at a breathtaking location, before flying to your favourite site for photographs, and returning for a cosy dinner and reception at your venue 156 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

of choice. If plans or dates are forced to change, Mountain Weddings will work alongside you to postpone and reschedule plans to ensure that your dream day will eventually happen. Head photographer Warren and lead wedding planner Steph are the dynamic duo behind Mountain Weddings. Warren captures stunning bridal photographs and looks after the post-production process while Steph painstakingly creates your wedding day timeline, while liaising with a team of vendors, to pull all the features of the day together. Warren created Mountain Weddings in 2015 to cater for more adventurous elopements. He recognised that the untouched landscapes around the Queenstown region offered a true oncein-a-lifetime experience, as well as the ability to capture gorgeous images. Steph and Warren live and breathe adventure in their day-to-day lives and their aim is to share these experiences with each couple, as friends rather than business partners. Steph: “As a planning service, we are extremely passionate about caring for and looking after our couples to the best of our ability. We believe this is so important for elopements, as sometimes we are the only people in the world who know that our couples are getting married! It’s often a secret that’s revealed weeks or months later.”

Wedding planning and beyond Mountain Weddings doesn’t stop at the wedding day itself. If you need help or advice on a suitable wedding dress or shoes for a mountain escape, or styling and design recommendations, look no further than Steph. Perhaps you’re looking for fun honeymoon or road trip recommendations after the wedding, or even some insight into adapting wedding plans to capture the best weather? Mountain Weddings will pull out all the stops to help you coordinate a wedding that is beyond your wildest dreams. What is Steph’s advice for brides-to-be? “We suggest slowing down and taking your time to read through magazines, websites and social media to explore all your options. Enjoy being engaged. You don’t need to have everything figured out all at once! Most importantly, trust your gut. You don’t have to follow traditions if you don’t want to.” Queenstown and Wanaka offer incredible mountain and glacier landscapes, which are all accessible via a hub of helicopter operators at both airports. The region offers a myriad of honeymoon activities too, from winetasting, restaurants and soaking in an outdoor hot tub to hiking, kayaking, mountain biking, horse-back riding and skydiving. For more information visit; mountainweddings.nz

Your relationship is full of adventure Why not say “I DO” with your

greatest adventure yet?

Elopements & Intimate Weddings | Queenstown & Wanaka | www.mountainweddings.nz

GETTING MARRIED IN

The Cook Islands

C

Cook Islands VISIT NEWZEALANDWEDDINGS.CO.NZ FOR MORE

ongratulations you are engaged and have decided on that dream Destination Wedding in the stunning Cook Islands. To ensure everything goes to plan you will need the following. Apply for your licence in person in Rarotonga to Registrar of Marriages at least three working days prior to your wedding. If you lodge your notice less than the minimum three working days as required, you will be charged with a ‘Waiver fee’. You’ll also need to take your passport and birth certificate with you when applying for the Marriage licence, also known as the ‘Notice of Intended Marriage’. For divorced bride/groom, you will also need to provide your divorce decree or divorce certificate. For widow/ widower, you will also need to provide the death certificate of your previous spouse. Marriages in the Cook Islands are legally binding and recognised worldwide. You must be 21 years of age to be married in the Cook Islands, for more information please visit the Ministry of Justice website.

justice.gov.ck/index.php/bdm/12-marriage-requirements

Crown Beach Resort & Spa is located on the sheltered sunset coast of Rarotonga where 5 acres of tropical gardens meet a white sandy beach that caresses a turquoise lagoon. Our Resort presents a host of all-inclusive luxury accommodation options, Spa therapies, and a wide range of excursions for our guests. Dine at Oceans Restaurant & Bar for both A la Carte and Themed Buffet Nights or have an intimate dinner at locally renowned Flambé Restaurant. Be sure to ask about our Romantic Dinner on the Beach! Our onsite Weddings and Events team are here to ensure your day is truly unforgettable. Whether you opt for a formal or casual setting, our unique location offers a variety of options for your special day. Each of our Wedding Packages are designed to provide an exciting range of services for you to choose from – including additional services to customize your special day.

[email protected] | crownbeach.com

Happily ever after begins here All inclusive Wedding Package* $6999 for 30 people $199 Extra pp • • • • • • • • • • •

Club Classic Package inclusions 30 of your close family and friends (inclusive of Bride and Groom) A Polynesian buffet feast 3 Hour Standard beverage package Choice of three amazing Reception venue options; Lagoon lounge, Restaurant, Beachside Marquee Complimentary use of sound system and portable mic at Ceremony venue only His & Her Rejuvenation Spa Package 2 Tier Wedding cake with ribbons and flower decorations Up to 28 ceremony chairs Canapes after ceremony *terms & conditions apply

For Reservations Tel: (+682) 23 000 Email: [email protected] n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z | 159

w w w . m u r i b e a c h c l u b h o t e l . c o m

LOVE A LITTLE

Cook Islands

T

VISIT NEWZEALANDWEDDINGS.CO.NZ FOR MORE

he Cook Islands, a romantic place where the temperature rarely drops below 24°C, the water is warm and inviting, the beaches have soft white sand, and the fragrance of frangipani is everywhere. Whatever your idea of paradise, you’re guaranteed to find a slice of it tucked away in the Cook Islands – just under a short four hour hop from Auckland. Amongst this pristine cluster of 15 islands in the South Pacific, you’ll discover the islands of Rarotonga and Aitutaki bursting with natural beauty, romance, exciting activities and an incredible choice of food and drink for an unbeatable honeymoon.

RAROTONGA It’s the size of the island that makes Rarotonga so different. No matter where you are, the whole island is yours to enjoy as everything is so close. Most couples hire bikes, scooters or cars to go to town, a different resort, a restaurant or cafe, or a different beach anytime they like. Others choose just to soak up Rarotonga’s relaxed pleasures, with its stunning blue lagoon surrounded by a protective coral reef, its towering mountain peaks and lush tropical valley floors. A day pottering on the beach, snorkelling, swimming, snoozing, or simply admiring the scenery from your hammock, drifts away in no time. For the more active, Rarotonga offers buggy tours, quad biking and mountain climbing in the jungle to kitesurfing, paddle boarding, and glassbottom boats cruising on the lagoon. There is more than enough to keep you occupied for weeks! And if you’re ready to slow things down and take a pause, there are spas dotted around the island providing couples 160 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

Cook Islands Honeymoon

massages, facials, and body wraps in beautiful treatment rooms nestled in tropical gardens and massage cabanas resting on the beach. When it comes to food, almost every corner of the globe is represented in Rarotonga. While Muri Beach is a popular hotspot, in almost any district you’ll find restaurants (casual and upscale) offering European dishes, fresh seafood, grilled meats and a variety of Mexican and Asian plates among many other options. This is what makes the Cook Islands a great destination for couples – catering for the most adventurous food explorers as well as those who enjoy eating all their favourite foods on their honeymoon. Rarotonga also spoils visitors with a huge variety of accommodation including hotels, resorts, holiday homes, selfcontained villas and couples-only retreats. With many only a stone’s throw from the lapping lagoon, honeymooners soak up every minute of romance from starting the day with breakfast on the water’s edge to reflecting on the day’s adventure with sunset

cocktails in hand and feet in the sand.

AITUTAKI There’s also stunning Aitutaki, a short 50-minute flight north of Rarotonga, offering absolute peace and privacy for the ultimate honeymoon getaway. The jewel in a cluster of 15 motu (small islands) scattered through a sparkling turquoise lagoon, this pure white sandy paradise is the perfect base for lagoon tours, catamaran sailing and a visit to the South Pacific’s treasured One Foot Island. From one striking sunrise to another bold sunset, Aitutaki is truly elegant and serene – just imagine relaxing on your own private motu before spending your evenings together enjoying exquisite cuisine and the uninterrupted sound of palms rustling in the whispering breeze. You can do as much or as little as you like on your honeymoon, the choice is yours. Our blue skies, sparkling tropical lagoons, palm fringed beaches, and warm Cook Islands hospitality will capture your heart forever.

RAROTONGA

|

COOK ISLANDS

E: [email protected] Ph: 0800 578 295 (Toll free NZ) www.nautilusresortrarotonga.com

Getting Married

Samoa

IN SAMOA

WHEREVER YOU CHOOSE TO SAY “I DO” IN TROPICAL SAMOA, IT'S GUARANTEED TO BE MAGICAL.

VISIT NEWZEALANDWEDDINGS.CO.NZ FOR MORE

S

aying your vows on a white sand beach under waving palm trees, eloping together to wed at a dramatic waterfall or doing it traditional in a church – the choice is yours. So how difficult is it to plan your dream wedding from afar without leaving a single thing to chance? Not difficult at all, if you follow these simple suggestions.

Hire a wedding planner Do you fancy a wedding on a beach or by a waterfall away from a resort, but still want someone with local knowledge to help plan your wedding? If you’re short on time or inspiration, a local wedding coordinator can gather all the information you need to make easy decisions, or you can leave it entirely up to them. Karleen Rasmussen from Weddingsinsamoa.com is a Samoan destination wedding expert and the ideal person to discuss stress-free wedding packages for all budgets.

What touches of culture and tradition could you add to your day? F A traditional lavalava for the groom and

groomsmen (and any guests who wish to join in). F Heaps and heaps of food. F Samoans are all about family, and that means there’s likely to be more than one cake at every wedding to ensure everyone gets a slice. F A traditional umu meal. An umu is an above-ground stone oven. F Traditional songs or drumming. F Samoan dance. F A customary pale or headdress for the 162 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

bride or a floral necklace (ula) for the groom. F The beach - for part or all over your ceremony.

when you are holding the ceremony in this beautiful Pacific island. After all, the Samoan people know how to do a wedding, and do it well.

Yes, there’s paperwork

Resort wedding

Marriages in Samoa are recognised legally worldwide. Application forms for a marriage licence must be filed 10 days (but no more than 3 months) before the wedding day with the Justice Department in Apia. You will be required to provide a photocopy of your passport, birth certificates, death certificate (of past spouses) or a copy of the Decree Absolute if divorced, and a Certificate of No Impediment to Get Married (from your country of origin).

Many Samoan resorts and venues are wellversed in hosting beautiful tropical island weddings for visitors, so why not plug into their extensive knowledge, facilities and services to make it all easy and relaxed? Not only do these venues offer a full wedding planner service, which will cater to every detail, from the flowers to the marriage licence, but it means you have the option of including accommodation for you and your guests. Research which location you most like and find out if the corresponding resort has the services that suit you and your wedding plans best. Don’t fear that you’ll be tied to a “one size fits all” wedding: Most resorts offer personalised, bespoke packages to perfectly match what you envision of your special day. Who knows, you may like it so much that you stay there for your honeymoon too.

Keeping it small, or eloping? What’s more romantic than eloping to a tropical island together to say your vows on a dramatic cliff top overlooking the Pacific Ocean, at the beach, or next to a beautiful waterfall? Not much, surely. While traditional Samoan weddings are grand, day-long events that people love to attend, your wedding can be as small or large as you like. Are you planning a private ceremony with only close family, or even just yourselves? All you need to do is find a celebrant and ensure the paperwork for your marriage licence is in order, pack your bags and plan an exquisite honeymoon. Remember, Samoans love a wedding. Injecting a touch of Samoan tradition into your wedding makes perfect sense

Plan your own There is nothing stopping you from planning the entire wedding yourself, as long as you don’t mind doing a bit of research. The easiest place to start is online, which can help locate the local services that you’ll need for your special day. Once you’ve done that, perhaps you’ll need a research trip to Samoa to settle all the details – there’s certainly worse things than spending a few days on a tropical island planning the day of your dreams.

Enjoy together

Samoa was made for sharing your happiness. Wake up and share a tranquil stroll along the beach before breakfast; or take a morning dip and soak up the sun on one of the pristine white beaches at your doorstep. Find uninterrupted romance in Beautiful Samoa.

Find Beautiful WWW.samoa.travel

Get t i n g Married in

Samoa

W: www.returntoparadiseresort.com

T: 685 35055

E: [email protected]

SEABREEZE RESORT, SAMOA’S ONLY 18+ RESORT Catering exclusively for couples & honeymooners, this romantic & intimate resort will turn your dreams into reality!

Book a minimum of 7 nights accommodation between 01 November 2022 – 31 March 2023 and receive an amazing wedding package for FREE. (Conditions Apply) +685 7748643 |

w e n d y @ s e a b e e e z e r e s o r t s a m o a . c o m | w w w. s e a b r e e z e s a m o a . c o m

V O T E D O C E A N I A’ S M O S T R O M A N T I C R E S O R T AT T H E W O R L D T R AV E L AWA R D S 2 0 1 9 / 2 0 2 0 V O T E D S A M O A’ S L E A D I N G R E S O R T F O R 8 C O N S E C U T I V E Y E A R S AT T H E W O R L D T R AV E L AWA R D S 2 0 1 3 – 2 0 2 0

Samoa is a unique destination that will offer a new experience, culture and natural island surroundings for your special moment. Contact Destination Weddings expert Karleen Rasmussen to discuss stress-free wedding packages for all budgets.

[email protected] weddingsinsamoa.com *Karleen is an IATA & TAANZ registered NZ Travel Broker.

Samoa VISIT NEWZEALANDWEDDINGS.CO.NZ FOR MORE Sheraton Samoa Beach Resort Entrance Road, Mulifanua, Samoa Ph. +685 84 45611 Fax. +685 45626 E: [email protected]

166 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

COMING UP

168 Vendors From venues to industry specialists, we have you sorted - whatever your needs.

176 Celebrants Don't neglect the ceremony! Find the celebrant who is the best fit for your special day.

Photo ZHAN

directory VISIT NEWZEALANDWEDDINGS.CO.NZ FOR OUR COMPLETE DIGITAL DIRECTORY

BEAU COUTURE One-of-a-kind wedding gowns entirely crafted by hand. Every detail considered. Visit our studio nestled in the hills of Dunedin, Otago. Design Consultations by appointment.

Beau Couture 021 335 854 [email protected] beau.co.nz

sw e e t b i t es ca k es .c o. nz

Welcome to

Wildflower CREATORS OF BESPOKE FLORAL MOMENTS FOR THE LOVERS, THE DREAMERS & THE WILD-AT-HEART ROMANTICS. Whether we’re creating wedding bouquets, styling an event, or training the next generation of contemporary stylists through the Wildflower School, we live & breathe floriography (the language of flowers). It takes a knack for creating vibes, an intense love of design, and a talent for combining art with Mother Nature.

LUCKILY FOR YOU, WE’RE FLUENT IN ALL THINGS FLORAL. Instagram: @wildflowerwaiheke [email protected] | wildflowerwaiheke.com

Photographed by Jonny Scott

168 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

DIR ECTORY

TUI HILLS Nestled in the bush-covered Waitakere Ranges, the stylish Tui Hills offers a native garden setting like no other. This is a proudly New Zealand wedding venue, from the Tuis and Kereru in the trees to the food, wine and hospitality. You’ll feel far from the bustling city, although just 30 minutes from central Auckland.

Tui Hills 1012 Scenic Drive, Swanson, Auckland 0816 Phone: 09 358 5836 Website: tuihills.co.nz

EVERMORE PHOTOGR APHY Gina from Evermore is passionate about creating a fun and relaxed atmosphere on your Wedding day. Her upbeat friendly personality complements most wedding parties, bringing out the best in her couples and making them feel as comfortable as possible. This shines through in her photography - not only in posed shots but also in the spontaneous, candid moments that jump out without notice that truly make your day unique. With nine years’ experience Gina is well equipped for most situations.

Evermore Photography Phone: 021 208 7232 Email: [email protected] Website: evermore.co.nz

TOITŪ OTAGO SET TLERS MUSEUM Situated in Dunedin’s picturesque heritage district, Toitū Otago Settlers Museum offers a combination of diverse spaces able to accommodate everything from small, intimate functions to larger, lavish events. Toitū is within walking distance from the Octagon and a range of accommodation options, making it an excellent choice for your next function or event.

directory

Toitu- Otago Settlers Museum 31 Queens Gardens, Dunedin Phone: 03 477 5052 Email: [email protected] Website: toituosm.com

n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z | 169

directory VISIT NEWZEALANDWEDDINGS.CO.NZ FOR OUR COMPLETE DIGITAL DIRECTORY

EXILE HAIR AND MAKEUP The Exile team are committed to ensuring your hairstyle and makeup is beautiful, natural and long-lasting on your special day. Be assured that with the team’s skills and experience, you will look and feel fabulous for your wedding. Available seven days by appointment, Auckland-wide.

SOUL SISTERS PHOTOGR APHY Connection. Colour. Culture. These three words shape my inspiration in both photography and in life. Every love story is different and deserves to be told authentically, in a way that reflects the couple, their values and their personalities. With over 200 weddings under my belt, you will be in safe and caring hands.

Exile Hair and Makeup

Lara Boddington

09 624 0119

021 1408014

[email protected]

[email protected]

exilehairdesign.co.nz

www.ssphotography.co.nz

Here EVERY BODY is Beautiful “We’re a size inclusive bridal and special occasion wear store with a love of curves. Our friendly team is on a mission to create a welcoming and safe place where “Every Body” can be made to feel fabulous while having the ultimate shopping experience.” BALLGOWNS, BRIDAL & BEYOND 395 Great North Road, Henderson, Auckland ballgownsbridal.nz

170 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

DIR ECTORY

BR ACU ESTATE Your wedding venue becomes the heart of your celebration. Bracu, just 40 minutes south of Auckland, is a venue with multiple ceremony spaces offering intimate luxury, nestled amongst the romantic olive grove of the renowned Bracu Estate. The combination of classic charm and state-of-the-art facilities make Bracu the perfect choice for celebrating your day in style.

Bracu Restaurant & Pavilion 49 Main Road, Bombay, Auckland Phone: 09 236 1030 Email: [email protected] Website: bracu.co.nz

LUXURY LOOS Everything should be first class for your special event, so why should the portable toilets be any different? LuxLoos is a specialised company helping to provide an elegant and luxurious finishing touch to any special occasion. Visit the website to check them out, or give the team a call to request a quote for your wedding or special event.

LuxLoos Phone: 027 672 2890 Email: [email protected] Website: luxloos.nz

LAN YUAN, DUNEDIN CHINESE GARDEN Located in the heart of the city, Lan Yuan, Dunedin Chinese Garden captures the essence of nature. The traditional high garden walls create a stunning enclosure for your own private wedding sanctuary. Transport yourself to a very special place that’s perfect for an intimate wedding, dining experience, or cocktail party for up to 120 guests.

n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z | 171

directory

Lan Yuan, Dunedin Chinese Garden Corner Queens Gardens and Rattray Streets Phone: 03 477 3248 Email: [email protected] Website: dunedinchinesegarden.com

directory VISIT NEWZEALANDWEDDINGS.CO.NZ FOR OUR COMPLETE DIGITAL DIRECTORY

K ATHRYN LOUISE PHOTOGR APHY Personal, intimate and something they can really cherish. Bridal Boudoir images can really be the perfect gift for your significant other, as well as yourself! Combining dark and moody images with light and bright, these sessions offer a wide range of images of different moods. My full private residence in Christchurch is available for your session. CAKE BY KRISTEN @cakebykristen_ [email protected] | www.cakebykristen.co.nz Photographed by Jesse & Jessie Weddings

172 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

Kathryn Louise Photography kathrynlouisephotography.co.nz instagram.com/kathrynlouisephoto

DIR ECTORY

KORU PHOTOGR APHY Capturing authentic moments and documenting your special day with artistic, emotive imagery that tells your love story. Stunning wedding photography. Christchurch, Canterbury, NZ Wide

Koru Photography Phone: 027 3735 740 Instagram: @koruphotographynz Email: [email protected] Website: koruphotography.nz

ALTER ME Specialising in bespoke bridal gowns and alterations, we are known to carry-out the most extensive and high-quality workmanship when it comes to bridal dresses. Each custom design is made with love, precision and detailing, which is thoroughly discussed at every stage of our dressmaking process. Custom brides get to choose their unique design, laces and fabrics, which we put together and create their dream wedding dress. Our industry knowledge not only helps us create gowns from scratch but we also perfect gowns through alterations. Every Alter Me bride walks away loving her dress even more than before!

Alter Me Email: [email protected] Website: alterme.co.nz

K ATRIN LILLA-NEL GERMAN MASTER FLORIST Canterbury Region , Weddings & Events, Workshops, Custom made designs Inspire and be inspired

n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z | 173

directory

Katrin Lilla-Nel German Master Florist Phone: 0210 2000 575 Email: [email protected] Facebook/ Instagram: Katrin Lilla-Nel Florist

GLOWNZ WEDDINGS & EVENTS

Your Wedding Day that is Unique, Personal and Memorable

directory

Dawn Thomson Photography

VISIT NEWZEALANDWEDDINGS.CO.NZ FOR OUR COMPLETE DIGITAL DIRECTORY

WHITE R ABBIT CAKES Specializing in wedding cakes, dessert tables, donuts and so much more. We understand the importance of attention to detail, a unique product and, of course, exquisite taste!

White Rabbit Cakes Brittany Thurston Collins www.whiterabbitcakes.com whiterabbitcakesnz

Wedding Hire | Styling & Planning Signage & Stationery | Personalised Gifts glownzevents.co.nz | [email protected]

DREAMY

WEDDING

PHOTOGRAPHY

f o r a d v e n t u ro u s l o v e d u p c o u p l e s

cushlamariephotography.com | [email protected]

174 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

DIR ECTORY

MIX IT DJ MIX IT DJ will transform your wedding vision into a reality as our professional DJs enhance the style, energy and mood of your wedding. They are the official DJs for “New Zealand Wedding Magazine’s Dream Team” four years running. Exclusively recommended by a number of Auckland and Waiheke’s finest wedding venues and vineyards. Renowned for their creativity, versatility and integrity while armed with the skill to read any given crowd; this makes the team at Mix It DJ the most sought-after DJs in New Zealand.

Mix It DJ Phone: 021 624 061 Website: mixitdj.co.nz

OMARINO ESTATE Private boutique, family owned and operated venue. Tranquil landscaped gardens (20-200 guests) Your choice of caterer. Country venue in city limits.

Omarino Estate Weddings & Events 638 Harewood Road, Christchurch 8051 Phone: 03 360 0924 / 027 406 5403 Email: [email protected] Website: omarinowinepark.co.nz Contact: Jane Wormald, Events Manager

WEDDING STREAMING The best weddings are those you can share with your loved ones, but sometimes that is just not possible. With years of live broadcasting experience and over 500 live events filmed, Hippo Entertainment will make sure your guets will not miss out on seeing your special day live, no matter where they are in the world!

Hippo Entertainment Phone: 027 231 2064 Email: [email protected]

directory n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z | 175

CELEBRANTS

directory

NICOLA DEERNESS

DESIRÉE MASON

INGRID JENSEN

TASHA BOWEN

Fresh, Fun, Relaxed Marriage

Every ceremony I design is

Weddings and funerals.

Celebrate your Way!

Celebrant crafting non-cheesy

meaningful, unique and reflects

Diploma in Celebrant

Auckland, Whangarei

wedding ceremonies.

your relationship, personalities,

Studies.

and Waikato

Auckland & Whangamata

values and love for one another.

Waikato and

[email protected]

[email protected]

Auckland

surrounding areas

tashabowen.com

nicoladeernesscelebrant.nz

09 446 6043 / 021 831 560

027 578 3317

FB: natasha bowen 4u

insta:

[email protected]

thatmoment.co.nz

insta: Natasha Bowen 4U

@nicoladeerness.celebrant

desireemason.co.nz

[email protected]

VISIT NEWZEALANDWEDDINGS.CO.NZ FOR OUR COMPLETE DIGITAL DIRECTORY

JOSIE SCOTT

JULIA CAMERON

LARESSA HOWARD

LISA SCHERMERS

I love working with couples to

I will make your day relaxed and

I create personal ceremonies

As a celebrant, and romantic

create a simple, meaningful

enjoyable, while honouring the

which are light-hearted but

at heart, my focus is for each

and creative ceremony.

importance of your commitment.

still touch on uniqueness and

couple to enjoy every minute

Kaipara, Hokianga and

Auckland

traditional elements.

of the journey, and have fun!

Whangarei

021 396 226

Auckland

Wellington

021 0223 8621

[email protected]

021 154 3488

021 866 538

[email protected]

juliacameroncelebrant.co.nz

[email protected]

[email protected]

aucklandcelebrant.net.nz

loveonlocation.nz

josiescott.org

MELANIE KERR

BELINDA DE LAUTOUR

VERONICA HIPPOLITE-

ELLITA THOMAS

I have been the celebrant

A memorable wedding

A’COURT

Wedding celebrant with a love for people, life

of choice for New Zealand

starts with a

Wedding and civil union

Weddings Win Your Dream

great ceremony.

specialist.

and adventure.

Wedding since 2011.

Taupo Central

Nelson, Tasman and

Queenstown, Wanaka and Central Otago

Dunedin

Plateau

Marlborough

027 426 8233

021 482 858

021 247 8412

021 213 0513

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

nelsonweddingcelebrant.co.nz

@ellitamarianne

melaniekerr.co.nz

176 | n e w z e a l a n d w e d d i n g s . c o . n z

Discover perfection within

nautilusestate.com - @nautilusestate

Get in touch

Social

© Copyright 2013 - 2024 MYDOKUMENT.COM - All rights reserved.