Exquisite diamonds, quality award winning craftsmanship and the largest selection of New Zealand made couture jewellery why accept anything less?
408 Lake Rd, Takapuna, Auckland, NZ. Ph 09-48-999-48 2
www.rdgnz.com Follow us on Facebook
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176 BROADWAY NEWMARKET PH: +64 9 520 2730 W: WWW.MODES.COM BRIDAL SHOWROOM: +64 9 520 6070 Brides, Bridesmaid, mother of the Bride and Groom Accessories.
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A South Pacific Love Affair…
You dream it, we’ll organise it! House of Travel’s dedicated wedding specialist will help arrange everything from hair and make-up, to the ceremony and reception, including catering, music and flowers. We’ll even ensure that all the necessary forms for an official South Pacific wedding are taken care of. When you’re getting married you want your day to be perfect. Your wedding should be one of the most romantic and memorable days of your life, but sometimes achieving that can be stressful. Why not consider a South Pacific wedding? They are close to home and affordable, and the relaxed style and friendliness of the Islanders compliments the carefree atmosphere of an island wedding perfectly. Although planning a wedding in the South Pacific may sound complicated, with the help of House of Travel’s wedding specialists, you’ll find it’s far easier than planning a wedding in New Zealand. We can help with every detail, from getting you and your guests to your dream location, to inspiration and advice to help make your reception a relaxing affair. Our professional wedding specialists will take the hassle and hard work away by liaising directly with the resort on your behalf.
Having an off-shore wedding means more quality time with family and friends. Plus after the ceremony, an idyllic honeymoon spot is close by. Spend a couple of days with your wedding guests after your wedding and then head away to a romantic and secluded resort by yourselves. Don’t get discouraged by long waiting lists for your favourite venue in New Zealand. Choose an island wedding and you will have many more weeks of the year to choose from, as you don’t need to restrict your wedding day to Fridays or Saturdays. Plus the resort can usually accommodate for a wedding the following day if there’s rain.
If you’re dreaming of a South Pacific wedding, let us help make it a reality. For more information visit any House of Travel outlet, call 0800 838 747 or visit houseoftravel.co.nz/weddings.
4 Come instore | 0800 838 747 | houseoftravel.co.nz/weddings
SANCTUARY RAROTONGA-on the beach HHHH 7 nights & transfers from
1229
$
per person share twin
Airfares additional
Travel: 01 Nov 13-19 Dec 13 & 11 Jan-31 Mar 14 $1359 per person share twin for travel 01 Apr-31 Oct 13 & 20 Dec 13-10 Jan 14 bonus: Tropical breakfast daily
AGGIE GREY’S LAGOON BEACH RESORT & SPA, SAMOA
HHHH
7 nights & transfers from
1379
$
per person share twin
Airfares additional
Travel: 01 Apr 13-31 Mar 14 bonus: Full buffet breakfast daily and 1 x 15 minute massage per room
TREASURE ISLAND RESORT, FIJI HHH 7 nights & transfers from
1459
$
per person share twin
Airfares additional
Travel: 29 Apr-05 Jul 13, 14 Oct -19 Dec 13 & 13 Jan-31 Mar 14 $1985 per person share twin for travel 06 Jul-13 Oct 13 & 20 Dec 13-12 Jan 14 bonus: A welcome drink, afternoon tea with fresh baked cookies daily, Happy Hour canapes & Monday evening cocktail party
HOLIDAY INN VANUATU HHHH 7 nights & transfers from
1299
$
per person share twin
Airfares additional
Travel: 02 Feb-31 Mar, 01 May-22 Jun, 15 Jul-18 Sep, 09 Oct-18 Dec 13 & 17 Jan-31 Mar 14 bonus: Full buffet breakfast daily
Wedding Bonus Book 10 rooms for a minimum of 7 night s & receive a Free ‘Aruru – Haven Of Love ’ Wedding Package valued at $1999
Wedding Bonus Book 10 rooms for a minimum of 7 night s & receive a Free wedding package value d at $1599
Wedding Bonus Book 10 bures for a minimum of 7 night s & receive a Free ‘Treasure Island Lailai’ Wedding Package valued at $950
Wedding Bonus Book 10 rooms for a minimum of 7 night s& receive a Free wedding package valued at $915 plus the bride & groom receive a complimentary upgrade to an Overwater Villa
CONDITIONS: Valid for new bookings only until 5pm 31 Mar 13 or until sold out • Prices are valid as at 01 Dec 12 but may vary depending on exchange rates • Deposit and full payment details vary between resorts. Please ask your House of Travel consultant for details • All travel must be commenced and completed as specified • Some surcharges and closeouts do apply – please ask your House of Travel consultant for full details • Advertised packages are per person share twin based on 7 consecutive night stays at specified accommodation – should your needs differ please refer to your House of Travel consultant • The FREE Wedding package is available only when booking a minimum 10 rooms for 7 nights or more for the wedding group, covering exactly the same travel dates • Holiday Inn: for the bride and groom to receive an upgrade they must pay for a Lagoon View Room • Airfares are not included and are an additional cost. Please ask your House of Travel consultant for the best option to suit your needs • Prices are per person in NZ dollars based on payment by cash or cheque • Accommodation is limited and subject to availability at time of booking • Amendment and cancellation fees apply – please ask your House of Travel consultant.
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WEDDING TRENDS 23 Locating the flavours of love
58 The wedding ring
32 TaBletop touches of genius
60 Bouquets for the big day
nautical, safari, tropical or vineyard the loving detail of diy
PRE-NUPTIAL RETREATS 34 Manawa Ridge
a circle of history
expert advice
62 On the “Morning Of” preparing in style
cossetted in the clouds
74 Battle of the blogs a key tool for planning
36 Black Swan
76 Dressing the groom
luxury at lakeside
beach, vineyard, or registry office
79 Duties of the groom & best man planning for perfection
SPAS A 3-POINT PERSPECTIVE 38 Polynesia Spa an uplifting indulgence
144 Get me to the church on time choosing the wedding transport
40 The Lost Spring
146 Ex-bride expertise
42 Spa at Pullman
148 Trash the dress
COLOURS OF A BRIDE 43 Celebrating the personalities within
WEDDINGS ON LOCATION 80 Auckland – again top destination
FEATURES
84 Waiheke Island – of beach vine & romance
bridal party ditches hen ritual
Groom & best man prepare with A pamper
From rock star to traditional
learning from experience in the name of love (or art)
in Australasia
16 Planning a destination wedding
88 Hawke’s Bay – a mix
18 The trousseau tradition
92 Wellington – an undisputed
a celebration while on vacation today’s bundles of love 6
of the visual and sensual creative genius
WEDDINGS ON THE WATER
Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour Upon the sparkling waters of Auckland’s majestic harbour, Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour sits ready to welcome you for the wedding of your dreams. Making the most of its harbourside location, the hotel features a dramatic water filled lobby, a unique setting for an intimate wedding celebration. Arrive by boat and take your vows at a ceremony staged on a private pontoon or delight your guests with a harmonious reception set on the water’s edge. Enjoy innovative gastronomy with a tailor-made menu designed exclusively for your palate. Experience the art of Sabrage, a historic gesture and a toast to your future. The Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour team is passionate and committed to guiding you on your journey to a perfect celebration that is effortless, elegant and filled with magnifique memories. H8577@sofitel.com - Tel: +64 9 909 9000 - www.sofitel.com
96 Queenstown – on top of the world 100 Bali – vows on exotic
Indian ocean island
104 Cook Islands – love to the sound of the surf 111 Fiji – romance honed to a fine art
118 Niue – a wedding adventure on the “Rock of Polynesia”
122 Samoa – a rare treasure for romantics
128 Hawaii’s six islands just made for romance
132 Australia – a Melbourne focus in land of romantic options
136 Venice – the lure of romance in the city of canals
140 Zanbibar – exchanging vows in the spice islands
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WEDDING DESTINATIONS ◊ OUR WORD
EDITORIAL
Our goal for this launch edition of Wedding Destinations is to deliver fresh content that celebrates our essence and offers creative inspiration to couples for their big day. In this issue we have brought together wedding colours, themes and trends from nautical to safari, designer gowns and groom’s attire from all over the world. We take a look at regions of New Zealand, the Pacific Islands and beyond as fabulous wedding destinations. Waiheke Island to the Cook Islands, Australia to Zanzibar, we are grateful to the brides and grooms who have told us their stories in our featured weddings section. Inspiration is what we want to give couples planning their wedding and so imagination flows from our pages as we break from tradition - but breaking from tradition means we also have to look to the past. Our associate editor Jessie Kollen takes us back in time with the custom of the trousseau and a brief history of the wedding ring - its symbolism and the sparkles that have our eyes bulging. What is our fascination with all that shines? Our centre stage photoshoot “Colours of a Bride” captures the essence of this edition of Wedding Destinations, bringing out the muti-faceted nature present within all of us. Whether we have a little something of the rock star, the elegant modern, the haute boheme or couture queen, or a bit of both - a hybrid - we can explore our hidden nature and high fashion when it comes to dressing for our wedding day. We’ve got Miss Twigg’s DIY feature with ideas for making a wedding day hands-on, we dress the groom and describe his duties because we know the modern groom does more than just buy an engagement ring. Hermine Banks looks back on her wedding day with an eye for advice to future brides, and then we take a look at, yes, trashing the dress. I like to think a wedding can be like theatre - and art. It can be as much an expression of our creativity as it is of love and commitment. xx Rowena Bahl - Editor Publisher Bruce Laybourn {bruce@destinationsmagazine.com} Editor/Creative Director Rowena Bahl {rowena@destinationsmagazine.com} Associate Editor Jessie Kollen {jessie@destinationsmagazine.com} Sales Director Cola Larcombe {cola@destinationsmagazine.com} Graphic Designers Lina George, leslie levendal Account managers Angela Marsen {angela@destinationsmagazine.com} Jane Jeffries {jane@destinationsmagazine.com} Financial Controller RACHELLE HOPKINS {rachelle@destinationsmagazine.com} Contributors JENNIFER SMITH, hermine banks, caludia casal, reuben barret, CARLA & WILLEM van der VEEN@MANAWA RIDGE, LIZ@DESIGNER LOFT NEW YORK, FRED PAUL@STUDIO67, DEMI@CLYNE, SHOWROOM22, WHITECLIFFE COLLEGE OF ARTS & DESIGN Distribution International Newspaper Direct Distribution Australia & New Zealand Gordon & Gotch Print Geon geon.co.nz On the cover THE COUTURE QUEEEN played by SARAH F of CLYNE MODELS photography by JENNIFER SMITH DESTINATIONS GLOBAL LTD Destinations is the registered trademark of Destinations Global Ltd. Destinations publishes ten editions annually. Quarterly: Destinations Biannually: Wedding Destinations Annually: Wine Destinations, Island Destinations, Oz Destinations, Active Destinations The contents are copyright and cannot be reproduced without the written consent of the Publisher. Most articles are commissioned but but quality contributions may be considered. Destinations acceptance of all contributed material – words, images and illustrations – is on the basis that these will be used internationally in all forms of the magazine’s distribution and marketing, be that print, digital or social networking. All articles, images and illustraitions submitted will remain open for reading, reference, retrieval without time limit through all forms of distribution. All material is accepted on this basis only. Tel +64 9 360-4096 Fax +64 9 360-4097 Email: mail@destinationsmagazine.com Web: destinationsmagazine.com All editions available online
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WEDDING DESTINATIONS ◊ happenings
Seventysix design – rings around the Pacific Seventysix design has just created an amazing new range of Pacific inspired rings, featuring Maori and Polynesian designs. Seventysixdesign are excited about this range as it tells the story of New Zealanders’ place in the Pacific, something they all keep close to their hearts. The range is available in gold and silver - and other metals available on request. web. seventysixdesign.co.nz Social. facebook.com/seventysixdesign Ph. 09 3760676 Add. 14 Jervois rd, Ponsonby, Auckland
12.12.12 – a Date Couples Can’t Forget Couples worried about forgetting their future wedding anniversaries are solving the problem by choosing dates that stick in the memory. In 2012 the wedding date of 12-12-12 proved to be “the” date to wed across the globe, with Agence France Presse reporting that almost four times as many couples in Hong Kong were married on that date, and in Singapore eight times as many couples wed on 12-12-12 as in the previous year. In the United States and Britain 12-12-12 was also popular following the trend of choosing sequential numbers for wedding dates, like 11-11-11 or 09-10-11. So what about couples choosing their wedding dates in the future? If they plan for 13-13-13 they may find themselves a little disappointed.
Pyjamas in the Daytime – Tommy Hilfiger says it’s Ok Runway models wore pyjama suits of silk, cardigan dresses and other slouchy styles in American fashion designer Tommy Hilfiger’s 2013 Spring/Summer collection at New York Fashion Week. Red, white and blue, stripes and solid colours were flying in Hilfiger’s “American Voyage” which is all about everything nautical and safari, oversized handbags, swimsuits that match, wedge heeled sandals and cable knit cashmere sweaters. “Sea and land, it’s about the stripes, the dots, men’s wear influence, pyjama prints, loose and easy.” says Hilfiger.
To App and To Hold The ultimate wedding planning app is out. Couples can become engaged, take the happy post-proposal snap of themselves on their iPad and the next minute download the app and start planning. “Brides Guide to a Picture Perfect Wedding” is an iPad wedding planning app created by Maring Visuals, New York wedding photographers Charles and Jennifer Maring. With two decades of experience in wedding photography,
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Charles and Jennifer know all about running the wedding machine - what throws a spanner in the works and what makes a wedding day hum as smoothly as singer Barry White after a cup of hot lemon honey. The expert advice is complemented by great photography, and provides guidance for couples in organising everything from a wedding timeline to etiquette and fashion trends.
Bethells Beach Cottages
Natural luxury for humans being
www.bethellsbeach.com
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Subscribe to Wedding Destinations and be in to win some clever gifts. The website, cleverbastards.co.nz is a shiny online showcase for New Zealand design and art - much of it as practical as it is pretty. Subscribe and win a giftpack of “Bride & Groom� pillow cases, a sweet wall clock, a bold coat hook for keeping jackets tidy and a kiwi diary for keeping life in order.
Post
Freepost Authority 240739 Destinations Global Limited PO Box 147450 Ponsonby Auckland 1144 New Zealand
CONTACT
e. subs@destinationsmagazine.com p. + 64 9 360 3970 f. + 64 9 360 4097 w. www.destinationsmagazine.com visit us. 74 Jervois Road Ponsonby, Auckland 1011
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- By Jessie Kollen
ne of the best things about a destination wedding is that it can become a holiday for everyone. The day of a wedding can fly past in a delightful blur of family, friends and festivities. A destination wedding has couples safe in the knowledge that there will still be time to spend with all of their guests. Marrying at a distant location - or even one that is not so distant - has a few organisational differences from having a wedding at home. But not to worry, those differences don’t have to mean extra planning, or a bigger budget. A destination wedding can even be less expensive and involve less preparation.
The best made planners Nearly every bride and groom who have organised a wedding overseas sing the praises of their wedding planner. When it comes to organising a wedding in a foreign country a planner provides invaluable practical support, from liasing with locals for catering, hair and make-up, to photography and last minute emergencies or changes of venue. The experience and knowledge of a wedding planner cannot be underestimated. Besides, when someone else is seeing to the details it’s possible for the bride and groom, and their guests, to relax and enjoy the experience. Look for a planner with plenty of positive online reviews and give them a call, a conversation will help to clarify if they’re the right person for the job.
Cultural considerations The planned wedding destination will often have a different set of cultural values. It may not be possible to have everything just as it was first envisioned, so be flexible and a dream wedding is still possible. In some countries there are religious aspects to be taken into account. Indonesia for example, makes it necessary for those intending to marry to declare a religion - and the bride and
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groom must be of the same religion, otherwise one must provide a written declaration of change of religion. A bride and groom who celebrated their outdoor wedding in Hawaii found that a noise curfew of 10pm meant they needed to plan for a kick-on venue so the wedding party could continue to celebrate into the night.
Red tape Obtaining the marriage license means a couple need to arrive in the country days or even weeks before the wedding date. Often their intention to marry will have to be posted as “banns” in advance of receiving the license itself. Many places require that the couple apply for the license in person. In some cases all the correct documentation and identification must be supplied prior to arrival as well as upon application. Don’t forget too, that language translations of the marriage license may also need to be obtained. On the very practical level of finances, the exchange rate or tipping customs must be taken into account, as couples won’t want to be surprised by any hidden costs.
Thinking about guests Sometimes the decision to have a destination wedding is made because members of the couple’s family live in different countries. Whatever motivates the decision, bear in mind that guests will need to get time off work, save up for tickets and make travel plans, so give them plenty of notice. Sending out a “save the date” as much as a year in advance of the wedding date is advisable. Think about the elderly friends and family - is it feasible for them to make the journey? Sometimes it can be appropriate to organise another party at home to give those who can’t be there on the day a chance to celebrate. But a destination wedding doesn’t have to be overseas, inviting everyone for a weekend in the mountains or a day spent on a beautifully decorated boat floating down a gently flowing river can be as much of an adventure as travelling to an exotic location.
Wedding package • Priority check-in and boarding* • Attractive ceremony venue • Traditional ceremony music • Rose bouquet • Buttonholes (2) • Photographer for two hours • 8x10 photograph (1) • Iced wedding cake (10”)
Your experience begins from the moment you arrive at the wharf, with priority check-in and boarding. Our Ceremonies at Sea coordinator will meet you and be on hand during the ceremony to ensure that you have everything you need. Your special ceremony will be conducted in an attractive venue on board, tastefully decorated for the occasion. Once the ceremony documentation has been signed, there will be a celebratory sparkling wine toast, and cutting of the cake will take place. Our photographer will be on hand to capture those special moments.
For more information please contact: your travel agent | call 13 24 94 visit pocruises.com.au/weddings *Cruise fare additional. Terms and conditions apply.
• Sparkling wine for toast (1 bottle) • Commemorative wedding certificate • Reserved group seating for evening dinner • Sandwiches for couple (in cabin) • Complimentary take home bath robes (2) • Dinner on board in specialty restaurant for couple (during cruise) Cost of package: AU$1,320*
- brides and grooms bundle up the love BY JESSIE KOLLEN
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WEDDING DESTINATIONS ◊ features ◊ tROUSSEAU
So if they’re not planning to sling a bundle over one shoulder and elope, what practical and luxury items can women and men today prepare before their wedding? he trousseau was once the trousse or “little bundle” tied to the end of a stick and carried over the shoulder of a runaway, but the Old French word has since come to mean a much larger bundle that encompasses everything from the humble collection of textiles a bride prepared before her marriage, to the extravagant trousseaux and dowries of queens and princesses. Today the trousseau indeed lives on, upheld by the sweeter nostalgic side of the tradition - as well as the drive of retail and the wedding machine. Yet as modern men and women know, they can say “I do” or “I don’t” to certain traditions for their wedding celebration; and trousseau remains one of the most sensible and delightful. So if they’re not planning to sling a bundle over one shoulder and elope, what practical and luxury items can women and men today prepare before their wedding? The answer, of course, is that a modern trousseau should be whatever they like - or need. The trousseau might be only the dress and wedding day accessories, or the shopping a bride-to-be does before the wedding; beautiful lingerie for the wedding night and new clothes for honeymoon. Modern brides do indeed “do” the trousseau, and it can be great fun. It can also be more than a little sentimental too, so if they’re aiming to fill a hope chest or glory box with family heirlooms and childhood treasures, maybe include some monogrammed handkerchiefs for those weepy moments. But, actually don’t cry, because this is one of the fun parts about organising a wedding. A trousseau might be a glorious banquet of colour, texture and variety, like the trousseau of contemporary Indian brides, a cool vintage luggage set for their honeymoon, or just some much needed new tea towels that they don’t expect to receive as wedding gifts. Indeed, throughout history trousseaux and dowries have provided the household items that are today often given as wedding presents - and certainly some bride’s “little bundles” were bigger than others. The trousseaux of royalty and wealthy women of the past were considerable, with evening dresses in velvet and silk, every kind of nightdress and underwear as well as shoes, boots, hats and gloves - often in duplicate. French queen Marie Antoinette had a set of dolls made that “modelled” tiny replicas of her extensive trousseau, while 19th century American pioneer Laura Ingalls Wilder, author of the Little House on the Prairie books, sewed her own simple trousseau of aprons, table cloths and bed clothes in
muslin - Laura’s mum even tied the whole thing up in a real little bundle with a clean white sheet. While girls of yore were hand stitching the lace onto their wedding-night knickers, what did Mr Right have to sort out for married life? We know he was obliged to provide an appropriate residence for the couple to live out their marital bliss, but did he cast off his threadbare bachelor slacks and buy new clothes, or was he expected to supply any household necessities? Men of means in Renaissance Italy gave their future bride a “wedding chest,” as well as household furniture and a great deal of the wedding finery; jewels, headdresses and loads of other gifts. This Renaissance man also provided his own wedding chest that, like that of his betrothed, had compartments for clothing and accessories and sometimes even a mirror. The “Renaissance Man” of today knows the worth of a set of fine new clothes and good quality underwear for himself - and how to choose some beautiful things for his bride. The modern male’s trousseau could easily hark back to the Italian Renaissance and be a gift to his bride - and to himself. Whether it is a wedding chest, hope chest or “bottom drawer,” the idea of upgrading, or purchasing fresh linens and underwear for the new life signified by marriage is as appealing as it ever was. If the trousseau is just the “bit of shopping” done before the big day, then there is the simple tradition of the “bottom drawer” to stash the honeymoon wardrobe until after the wedding. For others however, the hope chest has become a romantic way to dream of the future and married life. The first hope chests were cedar chests in which articles of a bride’s trousseau were stored and customarily the chest was filled over time, as a young woman advanced towards marriageable age. Today the hope chest, or glory box, has become a deeply individual pursuit. A hope chest might contain old love letters, family heirlooms, silverware, crystal, jewellery, baby clothes and photo albums as well as scented flower petals, beautiful lace, bed linens, and lingerie, all carefully packed for future use or keepsake. Brides-to-be continue the “little bundle” tradition with a marvellous mixture of practicality and creativity - and men can do it too, why not? Brides and grooms can prepare a very personal trousseau for their wedding night, honeymoon - or both, and for some women the trousseau can become a romantic and symbolic rite of passage; filling a hope chest with handmade and sentimental pieces. Whatever a bride and groom choose to include in their “little bundles,” the trousseau is one tradition that for romantic and sensible reasons is here to stay.
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1. Sterling silver sea lace cuff by Louise Douglas, cleverbastards.co.nz 2. Intricate Harp Corail jewellery by Culoyon, lexception.com 3 Ikat ankle boots bhldn.com 4. Bienvenue garter belt bhldn.com 5. Tipcup - modern take on a teacup which combines the art of brewing and drinking tipcup.fi 6. Soy Candles in Dreamy Coconut and sweet Passionberry flavours, cleverbastards.co.nz 7. Topsy Turvy Jewelry Box from bhldn.com 8. Aloha Bandeau Maillot, seafolly.com.au
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1. Acqua di Gio Giorgio Armani 2. Four carat diamond ring, handmade in platinum, rdgnz.com 3. Tiki Tok wall clock cleverbastards.co.nz 4. salvatore ferragamo Zebra Tie, Pure Silk 5. Jane Vile Tui cufflinks cleverbastards.co.nz 6. Recycled bike chain bowl manbits.co.nz 7. Whiskey stones manbits.co.nz
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Love in all the best places. Wedding ideas for couples planning the big day could include “Surrender to the Sea”, going nautical with the fresh colours of the ocean, “Safari Sanctuary” perhaps a secluded wedding in the heart of Africa, “Tropical Ties” with islands of vibrant colour and flowers or “Vineyard Vanity” which revels in vintage and puts the rustic with the sophisticated for a wedding with style. Inspiration is all that’s required when it comes to creating a great wedding.
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Surrender
to the sea
WEDDING DESTINATIONS â—Š TRENDS
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Blue Heaven Martini 3 fl oz vodka 14 ml (1/2 fl oz) Blue Curacao Ice cubes Lemon and/or lime slices, to servez
1. Seaview Halter Bikini, seafolly.com.au 2. Sailboat table centrepiece, tallshipmodels.com 3. Cake by Sweet & Saucy Shop 4. From the deep dinner plate by Anthropologie 5. Nautical flower creation by Enchanted Rose, enchantedrose.co.nz 6. Nautical invitations equipped with a compas that works to guide guests to the wedding by Twig and fig, twigandfig.com
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Safari
Sanctuary
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WEDDING DESTINATIONS â—Š TRENDS
2 1
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Buck’s Fizz About 120 ml (4 fl oz) champagne About 60 ml (2 fl oz) freshly squeezed orange juice, well chilled Dash of Grenadine
1. Neo Tribe Maillot, Seafolly.com.au 2. Phrenology vase, 3. Impala head, 4. Heath Nash napkin ring, 5. Batonga stool, all these African inspired items with a contemporary twist are from Safarifusion.com.au 6. Cake by Maggie Austin, maggieaustin.com 7. Globe Trotter Luggage Safari series availbale in ivory and colonial brown, globetrotter1897.com 8. Safari bouquet by Enchanted Rose, enchantedrose. co.nz, Vintage Desert safari wedding inviations by Wedding Girl, weddinggirl.etsy.com
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Tropical TIES
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WEDDING DESTINATIONS â—Š TRENDS
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Tropic Sunrise 44 ml (1 1/2 fl oz) Midori 120 ml (4 fl oz) Mango juice Ice cubes Serve with thin lemon and/or lime slices.
1. Seaside cake by Superfinebakery.com 2. Sissinghurst Castle dinnerware, anthropologie.com 3. Morning Salinas melissaaustralia.com. 4. South Pacific fixed moulded tri, Seafolly.com.au 5. Refraction bag, melissaaustralia.com.au 6. Tropical bouquet by Enchanted Rose, enchantedrose.co.nz 7. Invites by Coral Pheasant stationery and design, coralpheasant.com
au
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VINEYARD
VanIty
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WEDDING DESTINATIONS â—Š TRENDS
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Wild Strawberry Liqueur 28 ml (1 fl oz) creme de fraise des bois (strawberry Liqueur) 134 ml (4 1/2 fl oz) well-chilled champagne Float a few wild strawberries or thin slices.
1. Cake by Sweet Bites Cakes, sweetbitescakes.co.nz 2. Suspended Sparks serving sets, 3. Cool Seasons necklace, 4. Wood grain vessel, all from bhldn.com 5. VW Skyscraper Pearl by Vivienne Westwood, melissaaustralia.com.au 6. Vineyard bouquet by Enchanted Rose, enchantedrose.co.nz 7. Vintage invitations by Kelli Murray, kellimurray.com
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miss TWIGGS
DIY WITH
Weddings are often such a fuss around the details, and the truth is that every bride wants her day to be extra special and beautiful - they dream of a perfect wedding. Well, we know that perfection is close to impossible, but we can make everything look its best and enjoy the day, because in the end that is all that matters. As a wedding photographer, of course I think couples should have gorgeous photography, because trust me, that day will seem like a blur afterwards. But each couple is different and they are the ones who know what they value most. The essence of a wedding should not be money, but a wedding is also a big party and often one of the issues is financing that party. 32
WEDDING DESTINATIONS ◊ DIY
Here are three small DIY projects that will save money for what is most important and make the party look pretty. Let’s start by Table Numbers. It’s good to display these in a nice way and make guests feel cosy. This project involves a little preparation, but it’s so easy. All that’s needed: a) Small vases with plants (succulents work perfectly), bottles or jam jars. b) Dry petals or flowers to fill the jars. c) Sushi sticks. d) Printed cards with table numbers. e) Japanese masking tape. A textured paper looks great, simply print the table number (I couldn’t resist writing “Celebrate the Love”) and cut it in a round shape for a special effect. Place the card on the sushi stick and add some masking tape on the back, fill the jar with petals, the empty bottles with dry lavender, maybe add some doilies, and use the small vase to place the number.
Now the final touch for the table, the bride and groom get to have their custom made wine glasses. Let’s add some chalkboard paint too. All that’s needed: a) Two wine glasses. b) Chalkboard spray paint. c) Masking tape. d) Old newspaper. e) Chalk. Cover the wine glasses with masking tape, except for the base. Spray with chalk board spray paint and leave to dry for a couple of hours. Then write something with chalk on the wine glass base, like “bride”, “groom” or some small hearts. It’s a simple project, but it will look good on the table when combined with similar DIY touches.
I hope readers enjoy these DIY projects - they can help create a theme for the party. Consider adding other natural elements, like ivy in jars or vases, paper balls hanging from the ceiling, white fabric with a beautiful bow on the bride and groom’s chairs. Remember that this is all about love and family and friends gathering together. Think of it as a party, not just a big wedding day and things will just flow. Visit aplacefortwiggs.com
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Manawa Ridge, just outside Waihi, is an experience like none other. It has to be seen to be truly appreciated. Gentle waves made of land surround us, enticing us to surrender to their lulling presence. City life is but a memory. We are in a place amongst the clouds. We wake up early to music from the Shire playing through unseen speakers in the courtyard - its lively notes making us feel like we could dance through breakfast. That night we sat around the big wooden table in the courtyard, a platter of delicious cheeses before us and glasses of bubbles in our hands. At that moment it seemed romance was seeping from the very walls of Manawa Ridge. In the firelight we could imagine ourselves returning with our beloveds for a honeymoon - or at least another romantic girls weekend - Rowena manawaridge.co.nz
From the moment we arrive at Black Swan Boutique Hotel, we are treated to exceptional personalised service. Nerves from a late evening blitz down from Auckland are quickly soothed over a bottle of a beautiful cab sav and an accompanying fine platter of treats. The chilly evening is almost forgotten thanks to our cosy little outdoor gas fire, and some of the cuddliest wool blankets we’ve ever enjoyed. The Black Swan Lakeside Lodge Boutique Hotel offers sophisticated, luxury accommodation right on the edge of Lake Rotorua with a backdrop of tranquil mature gardens. “Our philosophy at the Black Swan is to marry personalised, intuitive service with luxurious rooms, stylish facilities, a serene location and sexy atmosphere,” explain managing directors Darryn Whitehead and Brent Webster Born from the bones of the original Kawaha Point Lodge and once the home of the famous Wilson publishing family, the Black Swan continues the tradition of a luxurious English style lakeside manor but with a contemporary twist. The grounds include rose gardens, sweeping lawns, swimming pool, sauna, secret grotto, sandy beach, private jetty, heli-pad and eight guest rooms with views over the lake or gardens. Focusing on contemporary Pacific fusion food, the Black Swan offers its guests the opportunity to experience gourmet dining
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overlooking the lake or private dining in the grotto or gardens. A speciality of the Black Swan is the chef’s table, serving only the freshest ingredients of the season. An a-la-carte lunch is served in The Conservatory where potted palms reach for the sky and an al fresco courtyard opens to the gardens. Surprisingly, the Black Swan is only a five-minute drive from Rotorua city centre and a 20-minute drive from Rotorua International Airport. From the Black Swan guests can venture out to enjoy lake cruises, fishing trips and float plane scenic flights from the private jetty or a helicopter sightseeing trip from the onsite heli-pad. The team at Black Swan boast varied work backgrounds, cultures and rich professional histories. Managing directors Darryn Whitehead and Brent Webster have a broad range of experiences both in the corporate world and in hotel management. The Regent of Rotorua and the Black Swan follow a number of other their hotel projects both in New Zealand and Australia. Their all-star team has been assembled from around the world, resulting in a remarkable range of skills and languages available for guests at the Black Swan. Team languages include English, Maori, French, Spanish, Russian, Portuguese, Estonian, German and Japanese. Visit blackswanhotel.co.nz
he lead up to a wedding is one of those times when it can feel rather like having a number of full-time jobs. There’s so much to do - and all of it important. As well as having family and friends from out of town, there’s a tonne of last minute wedding details to organise, along with the usual commitments of daily life. A bride is supposed to look beautiful and happily serene on her wedding day. Yet in the weeks before the wedding many a bride’s legs have become considerably more hirsute than usual and her eyebrows in desperate need of a tidy up. Not to mention those tense shoulder muscles and the skin around the eyes looking a wee bit baggy after a late hen’s night. Get thee to a spa, we say. Take everyone along, including the groom. Or make it an excursion for the hens - instead of a party. A spa visit can also be a way to enjoy time with the future-mother-in-law and other family members or guests who might have travelled distances to join the wedding party. A morning together in the spa is especially great for those guests whom you don’t know quite so well, but would like to include in fun pre-wedding activities. Spa treatments are some of our favourite things for relaxing and beautifying, and they are packaged in all shapes and sizes, some just with brown paper and string - a basic facial or a simple and soothing massage. But other treatment packages are literally the works, all wrapped up and tied with a gigantic bow and perfumed with fragrances of mango, vanilla and coconut - an entire day of waxing, massaging, facial, sauna, standard treatments and the latest trends in therapeutic wizardry for women and men.
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polynesian spa
An uplifting indulgence
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the bride & groom We’d enjoyed the Polynesian Spa a couple of times before, primarily to soak aching muscles after big bike rides, but this was a whole new experience, an uplifting indulgence that set the tone for a magical weekend in Rotorua. A nice preliminary soak in a secluded private hot pool is followed by a sweetly-balanced massage treatment that proves the perfect mix of relaxation and elimination (of tension). Our “Day Retreat Package” allows us to choose between a one-hour “Timeless Facial” or a one-hour “Relaxation Massage.” This relaxing package includes deluxe “Lake Spa” bathing, “Standard Private Pool” bathing (optional extra for a minimum of two people), a light, healthy lunch, and a spa gift to take home. We choose the relaxation massage and drift into a delightful state of calm, all stresses and worries drifting magically away. At
the end of the treatment we melt into armchairs and sip tea whilst slowly recovering from that wonderfully dreamy post-massage state. We then retreat to perfect privacy in a deluxe pool that boasts a postcard-perfect view out over Lake Rotorua. Later, totally relaxed and rejuvenated, we take a stroll down what the locals call “eat street” and choose a little Turkish restaurant called Café Ephesus (1107 Tutanekai street). The food affirms our choice. It is delicious with very generous portions and lightning fast service. We then drive back to the Black Swan for the final night of a very relaxing weekend that just passed by a little too quickly. - Kara and Nick Visit polynesianspa.co.nz
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THE LOST SPRING
The bridal party ditches hens’ night rituals PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNIFER SMITH
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Like an excited school kid I pack my bag and prepare for a girls’ weekend away - something that hasn’t happened in a long time. Back when I was a lot yonger, groups of us would find any excuse to get away together. Midnight walks on the beach, long sentimental chats, dancing with broomsticks - don’t ask why, but hey, it was a lot of fun. This time however, it’s a different type of weekend away - one of the pampering variety. We plan to experience a spa from the perspective of a bride and her bridal party. My small group of friends will re-create the blissful gathering of friends and family, an opportunity for all to bond and build a fun relationship before the big occasion. By spending time this way before wedding, the bride and her priorities for the wedding ceremony will be known to friends and family well in advance. While the hens’ party usually provides this bonding time, it tends to involve a bit of drinking and games that turn a little nutty - which is why I want to explore something a little different. I’m looking for an environment that relaxes, helps us unwind and perhaps brings about a different level of relationship building. On arrival at The Lost Spring - which has an almost Jurassic Park feeling about it - we are greeted by the spa attendants who
give us soft robes to slip into and cocktails to sip. We soak in one of several hot pools while being served delicious food and drinks from the menu. Then we embark on our Hen’s Heaven Spa Package. Massage, foot scrub and a manicure and pedicure. Now this is bliss. Even though most of our “bridal party” hasn’t met before, and despite our different ages and backgrounds, our conversation is deep and intimate. The spa environment and the complete relaxation we are experiencing from the treatments inspires talk about our deepest selves. Along with pampering and cocktails, the spa seems almost like a “getting to know yourself better” experience. We emerge uttterly relaxed into the stone age-like setting of the hot pools. It was still light when we went into the spa, but now we’re embraced by the dark of the night. The Lost Spring is now more Jurassic Park than ever. Every hot pool is like its own little cave. The jungle of plants and rocks is suddenly transformed and becomes dramatic - like a movie set for our own spa experience. The experiment is a success. Our “bridal party” has spent an afternoon and evening with nothing but bliss on the agenda and found it the best way to build new understandings with each other - and even with ourselves. - Rowena Bahl Visit thelostspring.co.nz
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spa at the pullman
Groom and best man escape for a pre-nuptial pampering With the stag party safely navigated, the groom and best man choose to retreat for an indulgent escape as the big occasion approaches. They have booked into Spa at the Pullman in Auckland for an afternoon’s pampering, a chance to relax in a tranquil setting, to talk over the final wedding details - and to get themselves looking their best for the big day. The afternoon begins with a gym workout, sauna and a few lengths of the lap pool before relaxing in the jacuzzi to discuss their roles for the ceremony and how they can work together to ensure the wedding is a special, romantic occasion that’s also entertaining and unforgettable. From the jacuzzi they head for what is to be the real highlight of the visit to Spa at Pullman. The treatments that lie ahead - a 30-minute stress release massage followed by a 60-minute Elemis “skin specific” facial - exceed all their expectations on their perceived scale of indulgence. The soft music, alluring aromas and skilful hands quickly induce a relaxation so complete that both the groom and best man find themselves dropping off briefly into blissful slumber The shoulder, neck and back massage leaves fingers and toes tingling as the apparent release points for stress. Sinking into a delicious state of semi-consciousness, they wonder if, right now, they have a detectable pulse. The stress release massage moves seamlessly into the facial and what a highlight. Both groom and best man have heard their female friends mention facial treatments and while previously they’ve always opted for a massage alone, now they suspect that women have kept this secret from the blokes for far too long. The groom and his best man drift from one state of euphoria to the next, as an endless stream of exquisite treatments are applied. When a treatment needs to lie for a while mending battered
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countenances, therapists Natasha and Rawinia move their magic on to shoulders or feet. This facial comes with the title “Elemis fruit full active glow brightening.” It is designed to provide a powerful skin recharge for tired, dull or lifeless complexions. The guys learn that with this treatment the skin is deeply cleansed and stimulated by Eastern massage techniques while power skin-conditioning lotions nourish and renew. Some 90 minutes later the therapists whisper the sad news that the treatment is complete and leave the two alone on neighbouring massage tables. Mumbled superlatives are exchanged, along with semi-serious worries about whether they might have lost the ability to walk, such is their complete state of relaxation. Eventually they rise and amble slowly to the lounge. It is here, lying back in large encompassing recliners, wrapped in thick, cosy robes whilst sipping tea, the groom and best man return gradually and not entirely willingly from their soporific state. They struggle to find words to describe the experience. The worn clichés - a “heavenly experience” or “feeling years younger” - just seem inadequate and lame. The best man, who declares he never wants to leave this new level of euphoria, is sufficiently moved to jest: “Call off the wedding. You’ve got to marry a therapist.” Even later, as they wait in the lobby of the Pullman for their car to be returned from valet parking, the groom and best man still cannot get rid their smug smiles. The world looks a brighter place, the breeze runs a delightful chill over their glowing faces. They’re pretty sure they’ve lost years but even better than that they feel totally recharged and ready for all the excitement that lies ahead.
wedding destinations presents
creative director rowena bahl photographer jennifer smith creative jessie kollen make-up artists JOannA gloyne, lata gray & LUCY elliot models from clyne model management destination manawa ridge creative conusltant carla van der veen photo editing REUBEN barret copyediting dominique van de KLUNDERT international designer wedding gowns provided by DESIGNER LOFT NEW YORK
Colours of a bride celebrates the different personalities present within each of us. We explore bridal characters, their individuality and their essence. Perhaps our bride is a romantic at heart, a modernist, a couture queen, or a haut bohème. Maybe she is a bit of a rebel, a rock star deep within. Or perhaps she is a little of each - a hybrid bride. As the big day approaches we encourage brides everywhere to look inside themselves and let their character shine through. We live in a world of art and drama, so let’s create it together and have a bit of fun in its making.
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The Bohemian Bride is played by Simone - a free spirit, inspired by the creative pursuits, resisting established styles in favour of unconventional ideas. Reflected in the non-traditional cut of her dress and apparent in the handmade feel of the fabric, her attitude is that of the artist, the musician and the poet. She chooses to wear a gown by Galit Levi.
For the not so modest Couture Queen Sarah F, this is the role of a lifetime: Her gown is conceptual and forward thinking, taking her personal style to the extreme. A creation of luxurious fabrics and unexpected forms, it may not be practical, but it will be unforgettable - speaking volumes and turning heads with a gown from Roxanna Zamani’s “Incongruous” collection, headpiece by Dedo De Dama and shoes Sarah Riley. 46
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The Modernist Bride, Rhianon, is no drama queen: She’s all about clean lines, her minimalist style allowing her understated glamour to shine through. Resisting frivolous trends, she keeps it simple and sophisticated with a gown by Rosa Clara, fascinator by Emma Highfield and shoes by Kathryn Wilson.
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The Romantic Bride, Simone, upholds the legacy of romantic tradition: Full skirts, structured bodices and subtle, feminine detailing recalling the long line of brides that have come before. The force of history behind her, this bride’s style leaves no doubt as to who is the star of the show in a gown fit for queens by Matthew Christopher, fascinator by Emma Highfield and jewellery by Kagi. 50
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The Rock Star Bride, Beatrix, isn’t going to let a wedding get in the way of her good time. Contemporary materials, sharp lines and perhaps even an injection of sparkle pop, hint at her rebellious streak. Set off by strong yet stylish accessories, it is clear this bride is her own woman. Dress by Trelise Cooper, fascinator by Emma Highfield and shoes by Kathryn Wilson.
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The Hybrid Brides combine many characteristics that create their signature styles. Left page we have Natalya a Wild Child Bohemian with a twist of Couture, wearing a gown by emerging designer Erica Bryers and shoes by Kathryn Wilson. This page Rhianon goes Modern Couture in a gown and belt by Tony Hamawy.
The Vintage Bride, Jessica, captures the glamour of times gone by with her intricate lace gown featuring a Swarovski pearl crystal hip belt and back jewel by Corina Snow Bridal Couture.
f course, we all have multi-faceted personalities. Any combination is possible - the only prerequisite is that the bride’s true colours come through.
Sparkling engagement rings and gleaming wedding bands are so connected with the western ideal of marriage today that anyone might think rings have always been part of the marriage contract. Not so, indeed, it is a wee bit hard to say exactly where the tradition of the wedding ring began. Could it have started with the ancient Greeks? Prometheus, a titan of Greek myth wore a metal ring on his finger to symbolise an eternal bond. In Greek stories, Prometheus was responsible for helping Zeus to literally make the first humans and teach them the skills for life - except the use of fire. Zeus couldn’t have mere mortals gaining power over the flame - they might challenge his own supremacy. But dear old Prometheus did teach people about fire and the mighty Zeus was livid. He had Prometheus chained on a mountaintop and an eagle was to fly down and eat Prometheus’ liver. But that wasn’t all. This was to be repeated every day for the rest of eternity. Overnight the liver would re-grow, the eagle would come back and it would start all over again. After years of this, Zeus felt guilty for imprisoning and torturing Prometheus (besides he needed his help fighting giants) and sent Hercules to release him. But ever after Prometheus was obliged to wear a metal band on his finger to symbolise the iron fetters and chains of Zeus’ punishment. We know that in later Greek and Roman culture, rings were often exchanged, not through marriage, but between males as a token of friendship. If the tradition of a wedding ring rises from this myth it brings
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up rather interesting ideas. Certainly it might suggest that marriage involves having one’s liver eaten every day by a screeching eagle. While some spouses might agree with this as a symbolic summary of married life, seen another way, the ring could actually represent a release from a life chained on the lonely mountaintop of singledom. This ancient story provides clues to the symbolic nature of the ring, and although it’s doubtless that the wedding ring has many origins, what’s clear is that it has long represented a bond between two people. Today wedding and engagement rings are a billion dollar business, and rings and styles are as individual as their wearers. The monetary value of the ring itself is important, or unimportant, depending on the attitude of the couple. Modern western culture has both allowed people to reject the convention of the ring and yet the culture of wealth worship drives the desire for fabulous jewels ever onward. We must admit too, that women - and men - simply love the glitter of diamonds and the lustre of silver and gold. But why? Is it because the little magpie within swoops with a cry of delight upon anything shiny, not because it’s useful, but simply because it sparkles with beauty? The role that monetary value has played in the marriage contract since the very earliest times goes hand in hand with the wearing of a wedding ring. The value of the ring of course was, and still is, not always for the sake of eye candy, but represents the wealth and status of its wearer - and giver. Ancient Egyptians made some of
the earliest rings from rushes and reeds growing alongside the Nile. As time went by the Egyptians began making these rings out of more sturdy materials, leather, bone and ivory, and the more valuable the material the more love shown to the receiver - and naturally demonstrated the wealth of the giver. The classic diamond ring seems to have been born from a wildly successful advertising campaign in the late 1940s. The advertising agency N.W. Ayer & Sons was hired by DeBeers to boost its diamond sales. The slogan they created has been imprinted on our collective conscious - “A diamond is forever.” The diamond, as we know, is associated with the engagement ring, which was used in Roman times in the form with which we are familiar today - the hopeful man presented one to his prospective bride and her acceptance marked the formal agreement to marry. The ancient Romans also had a hand in influencing the finger upon which many engagement and wedding rings are worn - the third finger of the left hand. They believed the “Vena Amoris” or vein of love, ran through that finger and connected directly to the heart. Matters of the heart are more closely associated with marriage today than they have been in the distant past. There are countless threads of tradition and culture from around the world that weave together in the circle of mutual promise represented by the wedding band. The meaning of the ring for modern couples is connected with their beliefs and feelings and the choice to have and to hold, and to wear a ring, is their own expression of commitment – and love.
handmade rings 14 jer vois road | ponsonby | auckland w w w. s e v e n t y s i x d e s i g n . c o . n z w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / s eve n t y s i x d e s i g n
Expert What would a wedding be without flowers? It’s such a pleasure to enter a venue or an outdoor ceremony and see a cascade of blooms. Flowers bring delicate beauty or vibrant splendour, fragrance and quiet elegance. Deciding which flowers to use for a wedding ceremony and reception is one of the loveliest activities of wedding planning. We hope couples will be inspired by images and thoughts from our featured florist. Flora Couture Designer Flowers director, Paige Wills, has over a decade of experience. Similar to haute couture, where exclusive garments are custom designed and made, Flora Couture custom design and make floral arrangements to reflect each and every couple. Paige loves the effect flowers have on people and says they express what we sometimes can’t say with words.
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WEDDING DESTINATIONS ◊ ASK THE EXPERT
What are your most popular wedding flowers? Peonies are still at the top of most brides’ wish lists. There is something so romantic about peonies. It doesn’t matter how many peony weddings I do, I still think they are absolutely stunning.
Do you have any advice for couples planning their flowers? I always suggest that couples have a consultation with their florist early in their wedding planning. Even if they aren’t exactly sure what type of flowers they want, a good florist can help pull together all the design elements and create a cohesive look. Also, if a couple absolutely “must have” a certain type of flower feature at their wedding then choosing a wedding date where that flower is in season is important. I have had so many disappointed brides who couldn’t have their dream flowers, because they didn’t realise they weren’t available at the time of year they planned their weddings.
What are your favourite arrangements? I love big, beautiful designs with usually only one or two types of flowers and lush foliage. I also love to use repetition of designs to create a stronger statement, for example having beautiful vases filled with orchids at the end of each of the pews or seating all the way up to the arch behind the bride and groom overflowing with the same orchids.
This edition we are featuring Tropical, Vineyard and even Registry wedding ideas. What are your thoughts on wedding themes? I think these are great themes. For tropical I would definitely suggest bright vibrant colours, possibly with orchids, or frangipani or even heliconias and lush tropical foliage. For Vineyard, soft romantic posies, with roses, peonies, lily of the valley, lisianthus and even grape vines to complete the look. For registry I like to think outside of the box, so a beautiful wristlet, small armature (bouquet designed to slide over the arm like a cuff), or even a gorgeous hair circlet would look stunning without being too over the top.
We love destination weddings and all things travel related. What are you thoughts on foreign flowers? I have been lucky enough to work with exquisite flowers in all sorts of locations throughout the world, and while it is always a treat to work with imported blooms, I think that the types of flowers which naturally grow in abundance in certain locations are the most special. I’ve done wedding flowers in Fiji, and we used all frangipani, or Queensland, with vibrant orchids or England with large headed roses and hydrangea. If I had to choose a favourite imported flower it would definitely be Vanda Orchids, they are stunning, and make such a statement. www.floracouture.co.nz
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Get ready, get set… and go. The morning of the wedding isn’t a race, but sometimes it can feel like everyone needs to be ready in so little time. In our “Morning Of” Extravaganza, brides and grooms are taking the time to enjoy the hours before the wedding with some of the best stylists and make up artists in town. At the Pullman Hotel Anthony Bayer from the tremendous salon of style, Toni & Guy, gets every hair artistically in place for the bridal party. The bride stays cosily wrapped up in her Emma Highfield dressing gown and the bridal party sip tea and champagne. Make-up artists Joanne Gloyne, Hannah Bradley, Terena Hugill, Annie Curtis and Mary-Jane Clark bring out their brushes and blushes to enhance the natural beauty of the bride and her bridesmaids before they dress in their garments by Anna Stretton. Over at the Hilton on Princess Wharf, the groom and groomsmen ready themselves with relaxed style in the Presidential suite - with more than a little help from Jeremy of Servilles, a smart stylist who even gives the guys fresh haircuts. The groom wears a Gibson suit and the groomsmen suits from 3 Wise Men, who also supplied the ties - which nobody knew how to tie. Crowning the extravaganza of the “Morning Of” Stephen Marr and Lucy & the Powder Room team up to deliver their own special take, which creates an amazing bridal look, offers tips that “pop” for pre-wedding preparation and explains exactly how it can all be achieved.
- photography by alyssa jouk - photography by sonja gardien models - clyne model management lucija (flower girl), leilani & charlotte (bridesmaids) sarah (mother of the bride), georgie (bride) bear (groom) matt d, sam c. (groomsmen) bridal party
groomsmen
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he day of the wedding dawns - and so do the butterflies. Like butterflies too, are the bride’s mother and sisters as they flutter about helping her prepare. In only a few hours all eyes will be on our bride.
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eanwhile at the Hilton headquarters in Auckland City, the men are expressing a bit of man love - an aspect that does not come out to play on a regular basis as it does for their female counterparts.
Wedding Belles Getting ready to wed is a sacred rite. Like a first date, imbued with hope, anticipation and a slow build of nervous energy, the real fun comes in savouring each delicious moment with the best and closest girlfriends. Make no mistake, this is a no holds barred girls’ zone where a bride comes to life, luxuriating in the pomp and the ceremony of beautification, each detail added to the next to create a knock out picture designed to take a man’s breath away. Here the team at Stephen Marr and Lucy & the Powder Room show us the endless possibilities... 70
Wedding Preparation
Lucy & the Powder Room’s Wedding Preparation What Lies Beneath Dressing from the bottom up, deserves full attention. Get the bridesmaids into matching twinsets of the undergarment kind, step out of the square that is blinding white bridal lingerie and enter the sensual world of burgundy lace, coral silk and chocolaty velvet. Beautiful lingerie really does transform a girl, whether its on show in peekaboo fashion or hidden beneath, there will be a nuance to the way you move that charms and enchants. TIP: Moisturise from head to night before bed the night before and wake up to glowing skin. Lucy Loves: Sans Baobab Regenerative Cream $60 Nail it Get hands and feet in tip top shape with regular manicures and pedicures leading up to W-day, that way all the hard work is done and the morning can be spend the morning getting a sweet rub down and picking out a pop tone – for the toes. Keep the fingertips natural, buff them but avoid glitter, metallics and French manicures at all costs. TIP: Hot picks for toes are Tangerine Red, Lilac, Crimson and Burgundy Brown. Lucy Loves: ‘COR’ by Uslu Airlines $36 Hair Dressing Sometime around a week before the wedding day, book a consultation with a stylist. This is the time to throw around ideas, bring some pictures and figure out likes and dislikes. The cut of the frock will help with choosing whether to go up or down, high or low. In a way, the hair do is an extension of the dress and should compliment the shape and texture as well as making those cheekbones pop. On the “morning of ” let the stylist take control, a little creative licence goes a long way in getting the best a stylist has to give. This is a good time to bust out the French champagne, kick back with the maids and take some behind the scenes snaps. TIP: Takeout a mini spray and tuck it in a clutch bag for touch-ups. Lucy loves: Sebastian Reshaper mini hairspray $15 Maquillage With the flick of a brush the face can be the perfect canvass with a flawless finish and a youthful glow. Keep the foundation base light; skin ought to look like skin after all. If there is an annoying blemish or two, block them with a discreet touch of concealer and make sure the brows are in good shape before getting in the chair. Don’t be shy with the peepers - false lashes or extensions are a must, a little contour here and there, a pretty highlight in the corners, an upward sweep of liner and a hint of peach or plum on moist lips will guarantee a male swoon. TIP: Turn the phone to silent, close those eyes and have a moment of peace. Lucy Loves: Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Lip Tar in ‘Divine” $39 Fragrance High on the list of feminine graces, scent is a formidable aphrodisiac. Not to be underestimated it also acts as a powerful memory stimulant. Choose a special fragrance for this auspicious day, something not worn before and so will remember always. TIP: Take care to layer scent up throughout the morning, applying a dab to the wrists, nape, shoulders and ankles every 90 minutes. Lucy Loves: Escentric Molecules, Intelligence & Fantasy, The Beautiful Mind Series, $230.00 Lucy & the Powder Room 10 Northcroft St, Takapuna, Auckland +64 9 488 0585 powderroom.takapuna@stephenmarr.co.nz Lucy and the Powder Room Newmarket 16 Morrow St, Newmarket, Auckland +64 9 524 6702 powderroom.newmarket@stephenmarr.co.nz
Wedding Preparation
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Wedding Belles ~ How To Chic and elegant, we can’t beat a timeless French twist. Here’s how to - in under 10 minutes Lucy xx ◊ Shampoo hair with Sans Nourishing Hair Wash and Hydratant. Following this, lightly spray Sans Protein and Moisture Infusion to strengthen, build body and renew tired hair. ◊ Part top section of hair into a triangle ◊ Back comb bottom to give substance for when pulling into pony tail & creating roll ◊ Twist tightly into a roll ◊ Take a clip and push back down into roll ◊ Gently back brush top section at roots ◊ Softly brush and smooth over top ◊ Make sure not to remove all back brushing ◊ Pull up into a top pony tail and roll over in a similar fashion to the back. Again, push clip back into roll to secure ◊ Gently move sides into place, don’t hesitate to push around and clip to create the right form for your face.
WEDDING DESTINATIONS ◊ BLOGS
batTle of the blogs When a blog is good, it’s very, very good. When it’s bad, well, we know the rest. The best wedding bloggers, or at least those who supply inspiration for wedding themes amongst their other style advice, have a kind of practical genius to offer readers. A blog can be one of the most useful tools available for wedding planning. Often each writer caters to a specific niche - the bride that likes to match all her colours, brides on a budget and extravagant brides. Best of all, the material is constantly updated, so it’s like a news feed for everything newly nuptial.
The Jet Fete Blog was specifically designed with the globetrotting couple in mind. It's a happy marriage of luxurious getaways, inspired events, and expert advice all for jet setting brides and grooms. Whether they want tips on where to wed when taking thier friends and family with them or a grooms' guide to planning the honeymoon, Jet Fete is the destination for nuptial travel.
Welcome to “The Rock n’ Roll Bride” Kat Williams’ little blog. The aim is to provide a little haven of kick ass wedding-ness in a cookie cutter and pastel wedding world. If brides and grooms have ever trawled the internet and felt disheartened by what they didn’t find, well, visit Kat’s blogsite of Rock n’ Roll delight for everything from fiendish nail art to tattooed weddings that absolutely slay.
The perfect palette is a wedding blog dedicated to exploring the colour palette possibilities for weddings. From inspiration boards to colour tips, the aim is to share the many ways that colour can be used and to create a place where brides and grooms will see the many different ways they can put their individual touch on their wedding day.
The best feature of GroomsAdvice.com is that it’s designed by men, for men. After launching a gift resource for grooms in 2008 TheManRegistry.com - they put together GroomsAdvice.com. On a weekly basis it showcases the groom’s role in wedding planning through helpful tips, Q & A’s with wedding vendors and expert planning suggestions.
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WINE PRESERVATION TECHNOLOGY
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Coming soon to NZ The private club for owners of Vintec® and Transtherm® cellars – dedicated to the love of wine. Whether you have owned your Vintec for over a decade or just acquired yours, you’re entitled to become a member ond DFFHVV H[FOXVLYH DQG FRPSOLPHQWDU\ ZLQH LQGXVWU\ EHQHŹWV DQG VHUYLFHV Find out more on vintecclub.com.au. Follow us on facebook.com/TheVintecClub.
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WEDDING DESTINATIONS â—Š DRESSING THE GROOM
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1. Francesconi Italian impressed leather slides 2. Strangely Normal Redondo shirt, 3. Mauarola shorts for Marvel Menswear 4. Pacific inspired rings by Seventysix Design
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WEDDING DESTINATIONS â—Š DRESSING THE GROOM
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1. WORLDman Rushmore Blazer 2. WORLDman Eli Cash Jean 3. Antoine + Stanley Cooper Black, antoineandstanley.com 4. Antler Cyberlite 4w medium expanding roller case, antlerluggage.co.nz 5. Mister Salsa shirt & matching bowtie 6. Wedding Rings, regal.co.nz
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WEDDING DESTINATIONS â—Š DRESSING THE GROOM
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1., 2., 3. and 4. by Zambesi. The Business Shirt, Space Cadet sunglasses, Casual jacket canvas, Surfer trouser navy 5. Antoine + Stanley Philippe Yellow
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A groom may be tempted to believe that his duties and those of his best man are quite simple. Groom - show up on time. Best man - don’t lose the rings. While these are important contributions to any wedding, both men actually have quite a list of duties. The groom will
The best man will
◊ Help choose the venue and how many guests will be attending. ◊ Depending on how formal the wedding is to be, select his best man, groomsmen and ushers and arrange their attire. ◊ Arrange accommodation for out of town guests. ◊ Request the people who will be making speeches in advance and provide them with a time limit to speak. ◊ If writing his own vows, make sure these are written and rehearsed beforehand. The same goes for the groom’s speech - this should be written and rehearsed well before the wedding. ◊ Provide a list of the days schedule to the master of ceremonies. ◊ With his fiancée choose the wedding entertainment. ◊ Arrange the marriage license and transport from the ceremony to the reception where the locations are not in one place. ◊ Arrange the fee or donation for the ceremony officiant and any singers or musicians. ◊ Assist with the organisation of a photographer and suitable location for photos. ◊ Organise a DJ or band. ◊ Have spare cash available for any unforeseen incidentals. ◊ Arrange for a “go-to” person who on the day of the wedding can deal with anything that goes wrong. ◊ Make toasts and respond to toasts by others. ◊ Need his best man for moral support and to ensure the wedding runs smoothly. ◊ Select a gift for his bride and thank you gifts for the wedding party. ◊ Ensure guests are taken care of upon arrival at the reception.
◊ Discuss the wedding plans early with the bride and groom. ◊ Establish a working relationship with the maid or matron of honour, He will be responsible for the wedding ushers and groomsmen. ◊ Help the groom choose attire for his wedding party and -organise groomsmen’s fittings if necessary. ◊ Ensure that the attire for the wedding is delivered on time on the wedding day. ◊ Ensure that wedding programs/orders of service are delivered. ◊ Take charge of the wedding rings - and do not lose them. ◊ Make a list of people who have special seating arrangements so that the ushers are aware of where to seat them. ◊ Be familiar with all roles and places so he can help others if there is any confusion. ◊ Work on and finalise his speech well before the big day. ◊ Be ready early on the wedding day to help the groom prepare and will ensure the groom is on time for the ceremony. ◊ Help the photographer arrange the wedding party for photographs. ◊ Fill the role of MC if one has not been hired or requested. He will announce the speeches, cutting of the cake, the first dance and the couple’s departure. ◊ Make a speech, remembering to compliment the bridesmaids, and relay messages from those unable to attend. ◊ Arrange the transport for the couple’s departure from the reception. If they are travelling by car, then arrange tasteful decoration.
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Auckland – once again judged Australasia’s top destination A laidback lifestyle and a vibrant city environment with a blend of harbours, islands, Polynesian culture and passion for outstanding food, wine and shopping - it‘s no wonder Auckland‘s lifestyle is regularly judged among the best in the world. In it’s latest accolade Auckland once again beat Sydney, Bora Bora, The Whitsunday Islands and Fiji’s Yasawa Islands to take out the title for Australasia’s top destination in the 2012 World Travel Awards. Auckland’s location between the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea, with its 48 volcanic cones, 30,000 hectares of native bush, dozens of Hauraki Gulf Islands and rugged Waitakere Rangtes, provides a bedazzling range of settings for memorable wedding ceremonies. With close to 1.5 million residents, Auckland is the country‘s largest metropolis and the world‘s largest Polynesian city.
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WEDDING DESTINATIONS â—Š TOP VENUES AUCKLAND
The Langham A wedding at The Langham, Auckland is an enchanting occasion. A delicious selection of gourmet cuisine, superb wines, elegant venues and stunning accommodation ensure a memorable wedding experience. langhamhotels.co.nz
Auckland Museum With striking neo-classical architecture and majestic columns, the Museum provides an elegant backdrop for wedding ceremonies and receptions. Couples can hold their wedding in the Event Centre, with its magnificent 360 degree views of the city and harbour, or within the grandeur of the marbled Grand Foyer. aucklandmuseum.com
BRACU Nestled amongst the Mediterranean-style olive grove of the Simunovich Olive Estate, elegant Bracu Pavilion offers intimate luxury just 35 minutes from central Auckland. Bracu features classic charm, state of the art facilities, exquisite menus and a tranquil lake. bracu.co.nz
Sofitel Set upon the sparkling waters of Auckland’s majestic harbour, Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour sits ready to deliver to the bride and groom the wedding of their dreams. sofitel.com
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WEDDING DESTINATIONS ◊ FEATURED WEDDINGS
Simunovich Olive Estate, Auckland Hermine & Marcus Photography by Dreamlife
We wanted our wedding to be a celebration of each other, our families, friends and heritage. We decided early on to have two wedding ceremonies - a Catholic ceremony and a Sikh one. The Sikh ceremony was just for close family and friends and held in a temple in South Auckland. The Catholic ceremony was held the next day at St Patrick’s Cathedral in Auckland city and was officiated by my two parish priests one of whom had known me since I was a little girl. We chose St Patrick’s Cathedral, as it’s an exquisite church and a great central location, which was ideal for our many out of town guests. Our reception was held at the “Bracu Pavilion” at Simunovich Olive Estate in the Bombay Hills. As this is a 40-minute drive out of the city we organised coaches to transport guests to and from the venue. We served Champagne on the way there, which was a great way to get the party started and guests mingling. We wanted a venue that was unique, had a romantic yet modern feel but above all incredible food and service. Simunovich Olive Estate with its stunning rolling green carpet of olive trees, a brand new, contemporary, Pavilion, a well-established “destination” dining reputation and incredibly attentive staff, fit the bill perfectly. We included many personal touches into our day: ◊ A monogram consisting of our initials featured on everything from our wedding invites, orders of service, seating chart to favour boxes and was even embroidered onto custom made serviettes. ◊ The wine and beer served consisted of our favourite New Zealand and Australian drops. ◊ Photos from our own parent’s weddings were placed around the venue. ◊ Our favours included colourful bangles and a “Candy Table” consisting of childhood favourites and home-made cup cakes and chocolate truffles. ◊ Our tables were named after the cities in the world that our guests had travelled from (we used pictures of well-known icons from those cities with us super-imposed into the pictures to label the tables. These became a great talking point throughout the night). ◊ We created “outdoor mood lighting” to encourage guests to walk around the beautiful estate (we arranged for the trees surrounding the Pavilion to be filled with fairy lights, the pond to be lit up with floating lights and lanterns to be strategically placed around the area).
wedding inventory bride’s dress: At the temple I wore a cream sequined “lehenga” - a traditional Indian skirt and top ensemble. At St Patrick’s I wore a silk dress with hand-sewn pearl beading made overseas by the same dressmaker who made my mum’s wedding dress. groom’s attire: Marcus wore a traditional Indian garment at the temple and full dress tails for the church. cake: A four-tier chocolate, lemon, coffee and fruit cake made by the delightful Emma at Strawberry Sky to resemble the intricate details of a wedding dress with a topper showcasing Marcus’ love as a Melbournian, for Aussie Rules football. flowers: We chose arrangements of white roses for the cathedral and a mixture of pink and white roses, lisianthus, amaranthus, gerberas and Bells of Ireland for the pavilion. Suri Florist at Elliot Stables created the bouquets and boutonnieres for the bridal party and our parents. music: A Scottish bagpiper piped us into the reception followed by a welcome by a traditional Indian Bhangra group. Our “cocktail hour” was accompanied by a string trio. venue: Bracu Pavilion at Simunovich Olive Estate in the Bombay Hills.
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Waiheke launches couples on very special voyage Just a dozen nautical miles from downtown Auckland, Waiheke Island exudes a relaxed, infectious feel. A wedding or honeymoon here is bound to feel like setting out on a very special voyage. There’s something about an island that alters our view on life. Islands mean escape, adventure and romance. Just a whisper of a planned tryst on Waiheke drops the metabolism to “cruise” and worries are instantly evicted to make room for a growing anticipation of the passionate pursuits that lie ahead. On Waiheke these passions will inevitably contain a mixture of romance, vine and beach. The voyage from Auckland to Waiheke takes less than 30 minutes by ferry, much faster by helicopter. Yet in that time, as the high-rise buildings and even Sky Tower symbolically sink into the Waitemata Harbour, the journey is just beginning.
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WEDDING DESTINATIONS ◊ TOP VENUES WAIHEKE
Te Toki Retreat Te Toki Retreat is a stand-alone venue for formal or informal weddings for up to 180 people. Opulent gardens with a beautiful manicured ceremony lawn and internal spaces tailored to the couple’s needs make Te Toki Retreat an all season wedding venue. tetokiretreat.co.nz
Chardy Ridge With views too vast to capture, Chardy Ridge provides the perfect backdrop for stunning weddings. The personalised service and attention to detail ensures the special day is one to remember. chardyridge.com
Delamore Lodge Waiheke Island's exclusive Delamore Lodge is recognised internationally for its breathtaking location and luxury. Nestled into the hillside on the northern side of the island, this boutique resort offers stunning views over the Hauraki Gulf that will mesmerise the couple and their guests. delamorelodge.com
Cable Bay
Picture getting married in a romantic island setting with spectacular ocean views on beautiful Waiheke Island, just 35 minutes by ferry from downtown Auckland. Cable Bay is the idyllic location for a wedding ceremony, photography and reception. cablebayvineyards.co.nz
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WEDDING DESTINATIONS ◊ FEATURED WEDDINGS
Mudbrick Vineyard & Restaurant, Waiheke Island Kylie & Chris Photography by Jessica higueras
We liked the idea of getting our friends and family together for a few days to relax, celebrate and enjoy some time away. Waiheke Island is so beautiful and we have spent a lot of time there as a couple. It’s close to Auckland so it was relatively easy for our guests to get to, and the laidback feel along with the wonderful natural features of the island really appealed to us. Our ceremony was on the cellar roof at Mudbrick Vineyard and Restaurant, a beautiful, romantic setting that captured Waiheke’s stunning views. Guests mingled while we had our photographs taken then they were seated for the reception in the main restaurant where we had a three-course meal that was very well received by our guests. Our cake was a three-tiered, with two chocolate tiers and one La Dolce Vita tier. I wanted to include my favourite flowers and also flowers that had some significance. My bouquet featured a pink hydrangea and lavender, both from my grandmother’s garden. Pink-tipped roses were in all of the bouquets because Chris so often gave these delicate flowers to me throughout our relationship and overall the flowers had a vintage look with soft hues, which I love. Having great wedding photography was important to us so we had most of our photographs taken before the ceremony which gave us more time to spend with guests afterwards. Chris loves cars so we hired a 1967 Chevrolet Caprice, and a 1968 Chevrolet Impala from the Waiheke Hot Rod Club. The most valuable tip I received was that at some time during the day, stop and take a moment with your new husband, look around and appreciate all the work that’s gone into planning your day - because it goes so quickly and celebrating together with family and friends are the moments to remember.
wedding inventory bride’s dress: Silk georgette and duchess silk satin with a French chantilly lace bodice,
designed and made by Sarah at The Little White Dress in Howick. We spent hours searching for the perfect lace and she was so easy to work with and did an amazing job bringing my vision to life. The bridesmaids also wore dresses designed and made by Sarah at The Little White Dress. groom’s attire: A Working Style suit and shirt and the groomsmen also wore suits by Working Style. cake: From Rocket Kitchen in Auckland. flowers: Amy Karrasch did all of the flowers for the wedding. Hair & makeup: The bride, bridesmaids and mother of the bride had their hair and makeup done by Simone Brook. music: Adam Stevenson played an acoustic set while guests mingled before and after the ceremony which created a happy and relaxed atmosphere. venue: Our ceremony was on the cellar roof at Mudbrick, overlooking the Hauraki Gulf and Mudbrick vines. planner: Chris and I organised the wedding ourselves.
Waiheke Island is so beautiful and we have spent a lot of time there as a couple. 87
Hawke’s Bay lures lovers from all over the world The Hawke‘s Bay region boasts a mix of visual and sensual experiences. The Hawke’s Bay is a renowned destination for wine lovers - but it’s lovers in general that are also flocking to this coastal paradise. Visitors from all over the world embrace the bay’s diverse romantic experiences in increasing numbers each year. Whether it’s a full-blown winery wedding or a romantic weekend getaway, New Zealand’s second largest wine region is almost custom-designed for the role. It’s little wonder Hawke’s Bay is one of the most popular wedding destinations in New Zealand. “The bay” is also renowned for producing premier New Zealand wines. If visitors are looking for artisan gourmet food and eclectic art deco architecture, the twin cities and main population centres of Napier and Hastings are a special treat.
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WEDDING DESTINATIONS ◊ TOP VENUES hawke’s bay
The Old Church This is a picture-postcard historic church transformed with opulent detailing into a top restaurant and ceremony venue. It is set amid the vines and features an exclusive villa for top shelf accommodation for the bridal party and family. theoldchurch.co.nz
Hawke’s Bay Opera House The events team at Hawke’s Bay Opera House use the by-line “make it unique” and a wedding at the Opera House certainly is unique. With modern and traditional spaces and in-house expertise the Hawke’s Bay Opera House makes the special day one to remember. hawkesbayoperahouse.co.nz
Te Awa Winery A single estate vineyard right in the heart of Hawke’s Bay’s premium wine growing region, the Gimblett Gravels, Te Awa combines a rustic, rural New Zealand ambience with the finest food and wine. teawa.com
McHardy Lodge Luxury Boutique Accommodation A beautifully restored 1896 residence with ocean views, luxurious suites and great hospitality - the ideal location for the bridal party to celebrate and get ready on the day or for a memorable honeymoon in romantic surroundings. mchardylodge.com
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WEDDING DESTINATIONS ◊ FEATURED WEDDINGS
Sileni Estates, Hawke’s Bay sophie & gareth Photography by eva bradley
I wanted to have our wedding reception at a place that had meaning for both of us. When we became engaged we thought of Sileni Estates because of its beautiful setting and the perfect vineyard. It was where we had celebrated our third anniversary of being together. Our caterer Sam Orton was very helpful and the menu we chose had several canapés which were served while the bridal party were having photos taken, then a set entree which was honey glazed pork mignon with apple and walnut salad. There were two choices for the main which were herb crusted rack of lamb or roast fillet of beef. The wedding cake was served as the dessert. The splendid cake was four tiered, consisting of two chocolate layers - top and bottom - carrot and gluten free lemon yoghurt cake in the middle. The cake was decorated with flowers in between each level and the colour of buttercream was a quarter-strength of the shade of the bridesmaid dresses and the flowers were consistent with the bridesmaids’ bouquets. The stems of the flowers used in the bridal bouquet were wrapped in tea stained cotton lace which also went with the doiley bunting at the reception, bridemaids’ shoes and other details such as the flowers on the wedding cake. The bridesmaids’ dresses were made locally, although the silk organza was sourced from Global Fabrics in Auckland. As we prepared for our wedding we had excellent support from family, in particular my cousin. We have similar taste and her input with planning was fantastic. We spent hours finalising the details to create the magical atmosphere. The scraps from the dress alterations were used to create three small simple flowers with pearl centres for my hair, which were also made by my cousin. My advice to couples planning their wedding is to remember that time goes so fast, don’t forget to enjoy every moment.
wedding inventory bride’s dress: by Martina Liana from a local bridal shop, RSVP. It was altered from a lace
up to a zip with pearl detail finish. The dress was 100 percent silk with beautiful lace. The scraps from the dress alterations were used to create three small simple flowers with pearl centres for my hair, which were made by my cousin. groom’s attire: Gareth’s suit had newly arrived for hire, he was hesitant to wear a tie, so a white tie with the white shirt was a compromise. He also wore cufflinks engraved with our initials and wedding date, which I had given to him as a wedding gift. cake: By Sugar Queen Cakery. flowers: The bouquet was trailing, as I wanted one similar to my mother’s on her wedding day. It was a pale version of the bridesmaids’ bouquets. My peonies were ivory-cream as opposed to the bridesmaids’ coral peonies. hair: vintage style, very relaxed with soft features around the face, the small lace and pearl flowers were placed on the right side of my hair to as to be seen during the ceremony. makeup: Done at home by a mobile make-up artist Michelle, Missey Moo Makeup. Mink eyelashes applied by LashWorx enhanced my eyes in the photos and during the day. The lip stick colour was subtle and neutral but still providing some depth. music: Verdant Blue, who were the groom’s choice. Great band, a good range of covers and there was lots of dancing. venue: Sileni Estates, Hastings, Hawke’s Bay.
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Creative and compact Wellington - a dream for wedding planners Basking under an international spotlight for the premiere of The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey, Wellington has declared itself the middle of Middle Earth. But Wellington’s undisputed creative genius is just one of the many reasons for choosing a capital wedding. A central city wedding in Wellington allows easy transitioning from the wedding to reception and for the after party to continue amongst the city’s bustling bar scene on Cuba Street and Courtney Place. Wellington is full of artistically inspired architecture and century-old chapels and churches. Venues such as The Queens Wharf Ballroom, and the Boatshed showcase the Wellington Harbour vista, as does Te Papa that also delivers a creative setting for nuptials.
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WEDDING DESTINATIONS ◊ TOP VENUES wellington
Te Papa As well as having highly-trained, talented people who look after New Zealand’s greatest treasures, Te Papa the Museum of New Zealand also has a dedicated functions team ready to help co-ordinate weddings. tepapa.govt.nz
FOXGLOVE BAR AND KITCHEN Foxglove Bar & Kitchen and Queens Whaf Ballroom, a unique blend of historical ambience and contemporary convenience, can cater for all occasions - from intimate gatherings to grander affairs. The Ballroom, a stylish wedding venue right on Wellington’s waterfront, features sweeping views of the water, wooden floors, velvet drapes and elegant chandeliers - an exquisite haven and perfect wedding location. foxglovebar.co.nz
The Wellesley Boutique Hotel The Wellesley Boutique Hotel has the ambience for a classic, romantic wedding reception. This heritage building includes decor and facilities that make it a Heritage Boutique Collection property and a superb wedding venue. wellesleyboutiquehotel.co.nz
The Museum Art Hotel The Museum Art Hotel has two elegantly appointed rooms for weddings. The Agostini Room offers expansive harbour views, and a spacious private balcony. The Tamburini Room, at ground level, has the ability to open up into the hotel’s beautiful lobby. museumhotel.co.nz
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WEDDING DESTINATIONS ◊ FEATURED WEDDINGS
Centennial Memorial, Wellington Catharine & Myles Photography by mary sylvia
We wanted to marry in a place we have both grown to love for its sense of community, dramatic scenery and quirky nature. Wellington is the epitome of New Zealand life - creative, self-confident and innately fashionable without being fashion conscious. The summit of Mt Victoria was chosen as it is a place we used to jog or walk together to admire the amazing panorama of the city, Cook Strait and the ranges out towards the Wairarapa. The location for our wedding also had to be somewhere worth the trip for Catharine’s family, who were visiting from the United Kingdom for the first time in her six years in New Zealand. It also needed to be somewhere that would be a great weekend away for Myles’s folks in the Horowhenua - Manawatu region. The wedding ceremony was held at the Edward Gibbon Wakefield Memorial, Mt Victoria, Wellington - also known as the Centennial Memorial - and the reception at Soi in Greta Point, Wellington. Our wedding images were shot on location around Wellington. Catherine wore a slim A-line frock of cream bridal satin covered by cream scalloped Belgian lace cinched at the waist with a contrasting beaded silver band. The dress was designed by Catharine herself and made by Erin Taylor in fewer than 48 hours - one week before the wedding. Catharine’s headpiece was made of cream lace, silver beading and sequinned net, also designed by Catharine and made by LaShika of Wellington. We decided not to have bridesmaids, but the bestman looked great in a lounge suit and purple crocheted tie. We had fabulous stationery featuring first-day edition stamps relating to our family backgrounds and interests, and it was all designed by Myles - an amazingly talented graphic designer. The flowers we chose were selected to match the colours of the stationery (purple, maroon and aqua) and the natural, wild elements depicted in the stationery. The cake too, was decorated with motifs from the stationery designed by Myles, featuring antlers, flaxes, gorse and fantails.
wedding inventory bride’s dress: Designed by the bride and made by Erin Taylor of Wellington. Groom’s attire: Lounge suit and maroon crocheted tie. cake: Three-tiered citrus sponge, rich
chocolate fruit covered in almond royal icing and decorated to match the stationery designed by Myles. Flowers: Flowers were by Toni Moncur of Bella Bloom, Johnsonville. hair: Something simple, elegant and wind-proof - by Ellen Jean Stewart through Claudine Stace. makeup: By Ellen Jean Stewart through Claudine Stace. music: Wellington’s finest live 3-piece covers band, Uncle Monkey. venue: Ceremony: Edward Gibbon Wakefield Memorial, Mt Victoria, Wellington - also known as the Centennial Memorial. Reception: Soi, Greta Point, Wellington.
We wanted to marry in a place we have both grown to love for its sense of community, dra matic scenery and quirky nature. 95
Queenstown – on top of the world for spectacular locations Few places on the planet can offer such spectacular locations for weddings as Queenstown. Couples come here for the exceptional scenery but also because of the very strong wedding infrastructure that enables a highly sophisticated occasion, the equivalent of an international city wedding, in an alpine setting. Summer, the traditional New Zealand wedding season, is hot and dry in Queenstown, with parched mountains and shimmering blue lakes. But all other seasons have their own magic - autumn with the kaleidoscope of leaves, winter with the alps coated in snow and spring with the flowers beginning to blossom. Queenstown boasts huge range of quality restaurants, hotels and lodges and of course, as the “adventure capital of the world” offers ample entertainment for any wedding party and guests.
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WEDDING DESTINATIONS ◊ TOP VENUES queenstown
Gibbston Valley Timelessly set amongst old vines, Gibbston Valley Winery treats offers a quality wedding experience. Highlights will include spectacular wines, incredible cuisine and the shimmering allure of the wine cave. gibbstonvalleynz.com
The Glebe The Glebe is one of Queenstown’s most sought after destinations, with a choice of 36 apartments including eight exclusive penthouse suites, just steps away from Queenstown’s vibrant village centre. The friendly staff are dedicated to making guests’ stay at the Glebe a memorable experience. theglebe.co.nz
Cavells Cavells is located overlooking the Shotover River, just five minutes drive from Queenstown, the perfect location and venue for less formal or smaller weddings. Fully licensed and full wedding breakfast or buffet selections are available. cavells.co.nz
Criffel Station Woolshed Offering a stunning rural and rustic location in the Wanaka area, Criffel Station Woolshed comfortably caters for up to 170 guests. With expansive views of the Upper Clutha Valley and surrounding mountains, the Woolshed has the feeling of getting away from it all. criffelstationwoolshed.co.nz
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WEDDING DESTINATIONS ◊ WEDDINGS ON LOCATION
Deer Park Heights, Queenstown Mika & Robbie Photography by alpineimages.co.nz
We have had a very hectic past two years which involved relocating twice for my husband’s job - it still feels a little strange calling him my husband. We had moved from London to Amsterdam and then from Amsterdam to Sydney and consequently we had already been obliged to cancel two planned weddings. It seemed like too much work to plan yet another ceremony that might need to be postponed. Then when we saw an online article about helicopter weddings in beautiful Queenstown, Robbie and I decided to go for it. We eloped - well, not completely, at the last minute my mum joined us for our special day. We liked the idea of Queenstown because its scenery is so majestic and only a short plane trip from Sydney. We thought it would be the perfect backdrop for our wedding and we had also seen wonderful photography from Alpine Image Co and those images completely sold us on using their services. I bought my dress in New York while I was roaming the streets jetlagged on one of my trips as a flight attendant with Virgin Atlantic. I’m a very practical bride, my gown was mostly tulle, which travelled well and needed minimal care. Sarah Arkin at Simply Perfect weddings did all our planning and she was always available to answer any questions or worries. She was so cool and calm and brought the day together without a hitch. Sarah was very professional and prevented any possible bridezilla moments. It was a wonderful day. We took a helicopter to Deer Park Heights to say “I do” and then went up to the snow capped Coronet Peak for some amazing shots. If you’re the kind of bride who is going to stress about things going wrong, bad weather or anything else, eloping is a fantastic option. Why? Because if everything doesn’t come together on your chosen day, you can always do it the next day.
wedding inventory bride’s dress: Oleg Cassini groom’s attire: A three piece morning suit hired from
Peppers of Mosman, Australia, the ladies there were wonderful and generously extended our hire time as it was in NZ. cake: We went to the Reese Hotel for a lovely meal. flowers: I love fragrant flowers as they remind me of spring, we had freesias, roses, jasmine - all white. Hair & makeup: By the great team at Collective Queenstown. music: There was no need for music. venue: Deer Park Heights planner: Simply Perfect Weddings.
I bought my dress in New York while I was roa ming the streets jetlagged on one of my trips as a flight attendant with Virgin Atlantic. I’m a very practical bride, my gown was mostly tulle, which travelled well and needed minimal care. 99
Bali – vows under the night sky become lifetime memories Exchanging vows beneath Bali’s tropical night sky will become a lifetime memory for couples and their guests. Bali leapt onto the world stage after the “discovery” of iconic Kuta Beach by western surfers some 40 years ago. Yet Kuta has a lot more to offer. This former fishing village has many small and inexpensive lodging establishments restaurants and shops as well as five-star hotels able to cater for the most elaborate ceremonies. Whether a couple’s wedding dreams call for a simple ceremony on the beach or an elaborate event in the most remote areas of Bali - all is possible on this, one of the most romantic islands on the planet. When marrying in Indonesia couples must declare a religion. Agnosticism and atheism are not recognized. The Civil Registry Office can record marriages of people of Islam, Hindu, Buddhist, Christian-Protestant and Christian-Catholic faiths. Marriage partners must have the same religion, but one partner may make a written declaration of change of religion. Marriage Certificates will be issued by the Civil Registry on the same or next day. A sworn English translation of the marriage certificate should be obtained.
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WEDDING DESTINATIONS ◊ TOP VENUES bali
Dea Villas Dea Villas with its one to 16 bedroom options, private spa and gym building, children’s playground and lush gardens offers a perfect venue for weddings, birthdays and other special events. deavillas.com
Villa Asante A favourite venue for events, this delightful property consists of three buildings set within a spacious big garden, together with a 20 x 12 m pool and bale relaxation pavilion. villa-asante-bali.com
Bendega Villas Modern Balinese architecture, lush tropical gardens, two fully self-contained villas with their own swimming pools and a fourth bedroom with a plunge pool, sun deck and private bale. bendegavillas.com
VILLA ADASA Villa Adasa is a haven for wedding parties and honeymooners, with traditional bale suspended above the greenstone-tiled swimming pool. Located in the heart of vibrant Seminyak. Villa Adasa is just footsteps away from the Indian Ocean. villaadasa.com
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WEDDING DESTINATIONS ◊ WEDDINGS ON LOCATION
The Legian Hotel, Seminyak, Bali Amy & Liam Photography by iwan Hendrawan
I think our love of travelling put the thought of a destination wedding in our minds. Bali has always been a favourite for me as it was where most of my family’s yearly holidays were spent when I was growing up. More recently, Liam and I love going to Bali when we want a quick and relaxing break. Our wedding ceremony was held at The Legian Hotel in Seminyak. It was a beautiful spot overlooking the beach and set up with the most amazing flowers, chairs, altar and decorations. The guests were taken to our reception at Villa Alyia which was set up with tables, centre pieces, name tags and lighting. It was a beautiful garden party and everything we wanted. We used Global Weddings as our wedding planner. The lead up to our wedding was completely stress free thanks to their expert advice and planning. From arranging catering, flowers, our celebrant, and even a hen’s day - we only had to hint at what we wanted and the team made sure it happened. About 30 minutes before the wedding was about to begin, two out of my three bridesmaid dresses zips burst open. We had no idea how we were going to fix it, but our wedding planner calmly and quickly sewed the dresses up and away we went. The images our photographer, Iwan, took were amazing; relaxed and fun - which is exactly what we wanted. We also decided to have a video made (produced by Ferry Tjoe) which was the best decision. The quality of the video is great and it’s easy to show people who were not able to travel to our wedding. The best thing about having a destination wedding is that you are able to enjoy your wedding over a number of days. We had a two week wedding celebration and looking back, we would not have changed a thing.
wedding inventory Bride’s dress: My dress was from the 2012 Pronovias (Barcelona) Collection. veil: Instead of a traditional veil, I had a pillbox hat with vintage netting handmade by a Melbourne Designer, Heather B Millinery in Hampton, Melbourne. As my dress was quite traditional, I was glad my veil was a little different, but still keeping the overall look traditional. Groom’s attire: Due to the warmer climate of Bali, Liam opted for slacks and a shirt. We decided to have the shirt custom made by Tailors Mark. cake: The cake was designed and made by Ixora Wedding Cakes, Bali; one layer was chocolate and the other raspberry; with white chocolate shards covering the outside. flowers: Like my dress and veil I really wanted my flowers to be simple yet elegant and therefore decided on white roses. music: We had a live cover band playing at the wedding called Organised Chaos, and ‘Bongo Boys’ - three local guys with bongo drums - marched our guests to the reception. venue: The Legian Hotel in Seminyak, Bali. Guests were then taken to our reception which was held in a private villa, Villa Alyia. planner: Global Weddings was our Wedding Planner. I don’t have the words to describe how helpful, professional and organised they were in creating and delivering the wedding of our dreams.
The best thing about having a destination wedding is that you are able to enjoy your wedding over a nu mber of days. 103
Cooks – a string of pearls for a South Seas wedding The Cooks Islands, lying like a string of pearls from latitude 9 – 22 degrees south, await all who’ve always dreamed of a South Seas wedding. Getting married in the Cooks is an easy step - whether barefoot on a sandy shore under a tropical sunset or pledging love under a fragrant frangipani bower having been borne ashore by husky islanders onto a motu. Declaring love with the sound of the surf in a sunset beach setting with palm trees whispering above is an experience to be cherished for a lifetime. For those seeking something more traditional, but off the beaten track, there is the option to walk down the aisle of a traditional Polynesian church to a melodic choir of island voices. Brides and grooms should arrive in the Cook Islands three full days before the wedding ceremony as the application for a marriage license needs to be completed in person.
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WEDDING DESTINATIONS ◊ TOP VENUES cook islands
Aitutaki Lagoon Resort & Spa Say “I do” under the thatched roof of the Oneroa Beach Chapel. Aitutaki’s beautiful beach chapel located at Aitutaki Lagoon Resort & Spa. Couples create their dream wedding from a selection of three Lagoon of Love Wedding Packages. aitutakiLagoonResort.com
Club Raro Club Raro helps make dream weddings come true. The wedding co-coordinator will personalise all arrangements in Rarotonga and ensure everything runs smoothly for the big day in this South Pacific tropical island paradise. clubraro.co.ck
Sunset Resort Sunset Resort is a small and intimate beachfront resort. Whether planning a small or medium-sized wedding, the on-site wedding planner will take care of everything, from the ceremony and reception to the guest’s accommodation. thesunsetresort.com
Bishop Cruises With more than 20 years of experience co-ordinating lagoon boat cruises in the breathtaking Cook Islands, Bishop Cruises offers detailed wedding packages for couples planning the tropical wedding of their dreams. bishopscruises.com
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RUMOURS LUXURY VILLAS & SPA RAROTONGA Rumours can provide the most memorable day for wedding couples. They can have confidence that their wedding and honeymoon are in very capable hands. Rumours accolades include; Winner of the 2011 and 2012 World Travel Awards “Best Resort Spa” in the Cook Islands, Winner of the 2012 Tripadvisor award for Excellence and given 5 stars by guest reviews. Rumours Luxury Villas & Spas Rarotonga , also the Small Elegant Hotels of the World Cook Islands’ choice for elegant presentation, offers a great range of flexible wedding packages rumours-rarotonga.com
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Pacific Resort
Tamarind House
Escape to one of the most romantic places on earth for the special day, secluded honeymoon or romantic getaway. Pacific Resort Hotel Group – Cook Islands offers wedding, renewal of vows, honeymoon and holiday packages. pacificresort.com
Tamarind House is a beautiful restaurant and wedding venue perfect for private functions, ranging from weddings to corporate events. It is a versatile and well-organised venues that can cater for parties of two to 100 people. tamarind.co.ck
COOK ISLANDS’ ICONIC SISTER RESORTS
ife is not Measured by the Breaths we take, but by the Moments that take our Breath Away. John Lennon once said: “Life happens when you’re busy making other plans”. Now is the time to reconnect with yourself, your partner or your family. Our lovely sister resorts offer you the place, the space and the freedom to make beautiful memories together. Take the time now to stop and… smell the frangipani!
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he Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa. Rarotonga’s leading beach holiday, wedding group and family resort. Experience the true Cook Islands spirit! NEW creche (0-3yrs)! NEW teen zone! KIDS STAY, PLAY + EAT FREE!
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anctuary Rarotonga-on the beach. Rarotonga’s leading new adults-only absolute beachfront resort. Stunning swim-up pool bar! South Seas sophistication.
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itutaki Lagoon Resort & Spa. The only resort directly on the World’s Most Beautiful Lagoon, Aitutaki. Breathtaking views. One of the World’s 12 Best Private Islands. Your Bucket List must-do! NEW! Premium Beachfront Bungalows now launched!
SANCTUARY rarotonga
Aroa Beach + Lagoon Marine Reserve Rarotonga l COOK ISLANDS P (+682) 25800 l F 25799 info@rarotongan.co.ck TheRarotongan.com
Aroa Beach + Lagoon Marine Reserve Rarotonga l COOK ISLANDS P (+682) 25 900 l F 25 988 info@sanctuaryrarotonga.com SanctuaryRarotonga.com
Motu Akitua (Akitua Island) Aitutaki Lagoon | COOK ISLANDS P (+682) 31 200 l F 31 202 info@aitutakilagoonresort.com AitutakiLagoonResort.com
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WEDDING DESTINATIONS ◊ WEDDINGS ON LOCATION
Crown Beach Resort, Cook Islands amy & jay Photography by CHRISTIne chang
We attended a good friend’s wedding the previous year in Fiji and absolutely loved it. We chose the Cook Islands because we wanted somewhere tropical and laidback. My husband and I have very demanding careers and we always want quality time with family and friends so we decided to make our wedding a vacation for everyone. We even made a list of recommended (but optional) activities for our guests - the best activity was riding in mud buggies - that definitely left us very muddy. Although we didn’t plan on bringing a professional photographer, we felt we couldn’t trust anyone else with our special day, so we decided to splurge and ask Christine to come along with us. I first hired Christine to take engagement pictures. Jay wasn’t interested in taking engagement pictures at first, but he was so happy and proud of Christine’s work that he stored the pictures on his phone and showed them to everyone. Christine has such a keen eye and captured the small but poignant moments that were shared, not just between Jay and I, but amongst our family and close friends. Both my husband and I wanted to make sure that the wedding would be as low stress as possible. We intended to enjoy it and not worry about all the details. We didn’t need music during the ceremony, the ocean waves were good enough for us. We used the resort’s DJ, who played cheesy tunes, but we all had a good time. Even my mom danced all through the night. We believed in setting realistic expectations of planning a wedding from across the world and refused to fuss over small details. And we were successful in achieving all of our goals.
wedding inventory bride’s dress: From a Korean-American dress maker, Vivian, who owns Tomato Bridal,
located in Koreatown, Los Angeles. I wanted something simple and easy to travel with. It was her own design and she named it the “Amy” dress because I was the first client to purchase this design. groom’s attire: White, short sleeve linen shirt, linen pants, no shoes and a leaf lei. cake: Chocolate cake with chocolate frosting. It was the best cake we had ever had - moist, delicious and the frosting was fresh and light. It was made by a local cake maker and ordered through the resort. flowers: I asked the resort to get the freshest local flowers in colorful hues, they smelled wonderful. hair: I went to the resident resort hair stylist. I wanted waves with flowers in my hair. She explained that my fine hair would not do well with waves in the humidity, but I was perfectly happy with the results. makeup: I did my own make up. I wanted to look natural. music: We hired a ukelele player (through the resort) who played for a short while before the ceremony. venue: We chose the Crown Beach Resort in Rarotonga. The ceremony took place on their beach, we were happy with their arrangements and the reception was also lovely. planner: The resort provided a wedding planner who took care of everything.
My husband and I wanted to make sure that the wedding would be low stress. We intended to enjoy it and not worry about all the details. 109
Arrive as a guest... leave as a friend. Includes
your room, daily buffet tropical breakfast, return airport transfers per person*
5 Nights
In a Lagoonfront Room From $ 599 (NZD) per person
With stunning lagoon views from sun-drenched decks, a fantastic swim-up pool bar, international cuisines & cocktails with a fusion of local flavours and friendly Polynesian hospitality, Club Raro Resort offers exceptional value for money for your next tropical island holiday. * Pricing is per person for 5 nights, excluding flights. Valid for travel until 31 March 2013.
phone +682 22 415 | email holiday@clubraro.co.ck | web www.clubraro.co.ck
Weddings on
One Foot
Island Aitutaki, Cook Islands
www.bishopscruises.com | bishopcruz@aitutaki.net.ck | www.facebook.com/bishopscruise
Fiji – hundreds of islands await the wedding party With 333 islands in the island archipelago of Fiji, and hundreds resorts, lodges, apartments and cruises, there is no shortage of options for couples wanting to wed in the capable hands of a people renowned for their expertise in romance. Whether it is a barefoot wedding on a private island or a big resort wedding with an entire entourage of family and friends, after 50 years of practice Fiji has honed the destination wedding into a fine art. Another alternative is to take a group of family and friends cruising, tying the knot on board or finding some deserted island for the exchange of vows. In Fiji, the perfect honeymoon options are right on the doorstep once the wedding ceremony is over. For marriages in Fiji couples need to send copies of their documents two weeks in advance and the originals are to be presented at the Registry on arrival.
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WEDDING DESTINATIONS ◊ TOP VENUES FIJI
The Naviti Resort The Naviti Resort is truly a tropical paradise. At one of the best locations on the Coral Coast with a spectacular beachfront view, the charm of a private island is blended with stunning tropical sunsets. The Naviti Resort’s fabulous wedding package can be tailored to the couple’s dream. warwicknaviti.com
Musket Cove Musket Cove can offer a combined wedding and honeymoon. Best of all, after the wedding couples can simply relax and enjoy the start of their honeymoon in what was rated by CNN as one of the “top five honeymoon destinations in the world.” Musket Cove conducts only one wedding a day - featuring exclusivity and privacy. musketcovefiji.com
Mana Island Resort & Spa At “Magical Mana” the crystal clear waters, stretches of four white sandy beaches, a beautiful white Seaside Chapel, and the incredible backdrops create a romantic setting for the perfect wedding or honeymoon. manafiji.com
Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa Famous for its long, lazy beaches, swaying palm trees and romantic sunsets Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa is the perfect backdrop for a South Pacific wedding and honeymoon by the ocean. sofitel.com
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Magical Mana Island Resort & Spa – Fiji ‘The most ordinary things could be made extraordinary, simply by doing them with the right people…’ www.manafiji.com
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WEDDING DESTINATIONS ◊ TOP VENUES FIJI
Likuliku Lagoon A haven of relaxed refinement for 45 couples only, featuring Fiji’s only over-water bures. Likuliku Lagoon is a special place designed with integrity to cultural values, traditional designs and architecture, and embraced by the renowned warmth of the Fijian people. likulikulagoon.com
Plantation Island The memories of getting married at Plantation Island Resort will never be forgotten. The resort’s wedding menu boasts an irresistible range of coordinated wedding, reception and honeymoon options guaranteed to ensure a very special, unforgettable day. plantationisland.com
Lomani Island “Lomani” is the Fijian word for love and a most appropriate description for the Lomani island Resort judging by the number of guests who get married and honeymoon in this most magical venue. The resort has a dedicated team of wedding coordinators to offer expert advice and assistance. lomaniisland.com
Malolo Island Malolo Island Fiji is a perfect idyll where romantics enjoy sunset strolls along the beach, an afternoon siesta and quiet read in a hammock, a private candle-lit dinner for two on the beach, a picnic lunch on a secluded sandbank or just luxuriate in the tropical setting of Leilani’s Spa. maloloisland.com
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WEDDING DESTINATIONS ◊ WEDDINGS ON LOCATION
Mana Island Resort, Fiji Danielle & Marc Photography by Mary sylvia
We knew we were never going to suit everyone with the location for our wedding. We chose to have a destination wedding in Fiji because we’re an international pair - Marc is originally from England and Danielle is from Canada. We had both been to Fiji before and it truly is like looking at a postcard. We held the reception and ceremony at Mana Island because it has the clear water and white sand we craved. Mana Island is fantastic resort. We can’t wait to go back in the future. We especially liked that they upgraded us to one of their fabulous honeymoon bures. Mana Island Resort provided two wedding planners who were professional and happily did everything we asked. They helped me arrange most things via email months before the actual wedding but they met us as soon as we arrived on the island to sort out the finer details. The cake came included in the wedding package. It was vanilla sponge with vanilla icing - we were a bit surprised to find that they had put fruit in the middle. The flowers we chose for the wedding were frangipani because, well, frangipani just screams “Fiji me.” I did my own hair - it wasn’t easy. I’d recommend for brides getting married somewhere tropical not to wear your hair down, your neck will get sweaty and it’s so uncomfortable. I’d also suggest finding a good wedding photographer and book them well in advance. The photos are the best part. Mary captured so many special moments and made us feel relaxed. I recommend her to anyone in New Zealand who is getting married, or engaged. Mary also does lovely engagement photographs. One last thought for couples planning a destination wedding - get a reliable travel agent and do lots of research before choosing where to get married.
wedding inventory bride’s dress: Dress by Elizabeth de Varga. Groom’s attire: Hugo Boss suit. cake: The
cake came included in the wedding package. flowers: Frangipani hair: I did my own hair. makeup: I also did my own makeup. It was all Napoleon Perdis products. music: Our “walk down the isle song” was from The Twilight Saga, it was the instrumental version of a song called Turning Page. venue: Mana Island Resort planner: Mana Island provided two wedding planners.
We had both been to Fiji before and it truly is like looking at a postcard. We held the reception and ceremony at Mana Island because it has the clear water and white sand we craved. 117
Niue a wedding adventure to the Rock of Polynesia
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WEDDING DESTINATIONS ◊ NIUE FEATURE
Niue is also a place where visitors can get as close as 50 metres to humpback whales - without getting wet. It’s easy to spend all day watching them from anywhere along Niue’s western coast, but guests at the Matavai Resort get a grandstand view. Niue, known as the “Rock of Polynesia,” is a place for those who want to escape to an island of dramatic landscape and raw beauty - and as a wedding destination Niue is about to step onto the map. With Niue’s legendary hospitality, the wedding party will be embraced into its tiny population. The first nation in the world to provide free wi-fi internet access across the country - so there’s no need to feel cut off from civilisation on this island. There’s plenty to do if the bride and groom and their guests want to fill their wedding holiday with action. Or there’s plenty to “not do” if they are looking to relax peacefully while spending time together. Niue’s appeal lies not only with its Pacific island beauty, but also in what it does not have. There are no typical sandy beaches on the island, but there are many tiny, intimate coves where visitors can swim and sunbathe in total privacy. Crowds are unknown. Only around 1500 people now live on Niue (with around 30,000 in New Zealand and 4,000 in Australia) so visitors are not going to be caught in a traffic jam. Transport is by hire car, bicycle, motorbike by or sticking out the thumb. Fresh food in Niue is plentiful. The market is the focal point for local produce sales. The Tuesday and Friday market starts at around 5-9am selling local grown produce, handcrafts, local food delicacies, leis (flower garlands) and the bright blue coconut crabs known as uga, both now rare on other Pacific Islands. Niue has a number of cafes and also several licensed restaurants where, if there is an “island buffet night,” traditional dishes feature on the menu such as coconut crab, ota, or marinated fish in coconut cream, taro and yams cooked in an umu, or earth oven - as well
as other local seafood delicacies found in Niue. Niue is blessed every year between June and September with visits from migrating humpback whales. Taking a break on their long journey, they come to Niue to rest, play, mate and give birth. Humpback whales migrate 5000km from their feeding grounds to calve and mate in tropical waters during winter months. During the months of the humpback migration it is common to see the whales from the shore as they frolic in the crystal clear, warm waters of Niue. The whales show all forms of their behaviour, from breaching, fluke up dives, head lunges, pectoral slaps and tail lobbing to swimming along sedately. Females also give birth in the calm bays of Niue and a typical calf can weigh up to one tonne and be three to four metres long. Niue Dive and licenced operators offer whale interactions and dolphin trips, one of the few places in the world where this is allowed. Following strict guidelines from experienced guides/ operators, snorkellers form a line in the water to watch the whales, ensuring they never split into smaller groups, or come between the mother and calf. If the whales are not in the mood they will move sedately away. Niue is also a place where visitors can get as close as 50 metres to humpback whales - without getting wet. It’s easy to spend all day watching them from anywhere along Niue’s western coast, but guests at the Matavai Resort get a grandstand view. Nestled into bush on a cliff edge, Matavai‘s tiered decks overlook the whales’ preferred bay. The location provides the most mesmerising whale watching platform imaginable and with newly installed viewing binoculars from certain look out points, viewing is even better.
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The national waters of Niue have also been declared a whale sanctuary and the non-government organisation, “Oma Tafua” meaning “to treasure whales” is dedicated to the protection, conservation and education of marine mammals and works together with Whales Alive & Niue Fisheries Division. Exploring Niue‘s coast under water is a treat, with its visibility of up to 65 metres being among the best in the world, another gift of the island‘s unique geology. A wide variety of marine life, including turtles, dolphins, Niue’s famous sea snakes, hard corals and caverns provide memorable diving. For sea anglers, there are well-equipped fishing charters. The beauty of the fishing is that with such deep water so close to land, no travelling time is wasted, and a great array of marine visitors, including sailfish, marlin, yellowfin tuna, mahi mahi, wahoo, barracuda. Giant trevally are the targeted species and caught just offshore. A visit to Togo Chasm, near Niue’s south-eastern coast, has special appeal. A 30-minute drive from Aolfi, Togo’s pinnacled and latticed limestone walls totally enclose a beautiful patch of white sand. The path to the chasm requires care but it is clear and stepped and the sand is accessed down a 25-metre ladder. Although Niue lacks the spectacular peaks of a high volcanic island, because it is an average of 30 metres above the sea, there are panoramic views of the Pacific almost all the way along the encircling road. The road is a good one, well surfaced and gently undulating as it passes through the lush vegetation following the island’s perimeter, which was once the rim of the former atoll. The road passes through Niue’s 14 villages, each with its distinctive green, churches and plantation land. Alofi, the main village, has one bank, no traffic lights and few streetlights.
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Above ground, more than 20 percent of Niue is dense, primary rainforest, most lying within the Huvalu Conservation Area in the south-eastern area of the island. The centre of the island is covered in bush, but even here the old coral protrudes like harrows through the vegetation of farmed plots of land. All around the island, where the rim dips or plunges to the sea, Niue’s landforms are a wonder. The rainfall that soaks into the land permeates the coral rock, forming a lens-like layer of fresh water metres underground. Around the edges of the island, at sea level, the water leaks out, sometimes forcefully, eroding the landscape and sculpting the rock into a karst landscape. The original inhabitants of Niue came from Tonga to the west, Samoa to the east and a smaller migration from the Northern Cook Islands. When Captain James Cook first sighted Niue in 1774 he tried to land. Niuean warriors vigorously repulsed him and his men, so Cook named it Savage Island. Niueans are actually some of the friendliest people in the Pacific, and are utterly approachable - visiting is like being welcomed into a large family. Their greeting, “fakaalofa lahi atu” is heard often. Today Niue is free-governing, in association with New Zealand, so its people have New Zealand citizenship with free right of entry. The climate is tropical, modified by south-easterly trade winds. There is a long dry season from April to November when the temperature peaks at around 28 degrees Celsius. From December to March the climate is hot and humid, with maximum temperatures of around 30 degrees Celsius. Almost everyone speaks Niuean and English and the currency is the New Zealand dollar. When you visit Niue you arrive as a visitor and leave as a friend.
Samoa
a “wedding week” to treasure
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Less than four hours from Auckland and across the glistening Pacific ocean lies the Treasured Islands of the South Pacific, Samoa. Blessed with stunning land and seascapes, Samoa was recently voted as the Best Value Destination in the South Pacific.
www.samoa.travel
The Treasured Islands of the South Pacific
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Samoa, the name alone conjures up images of tropical sunsets, fragrant frangipani, glistening blue waters and the sounds of island drums. As a place to spend time with family leading up to a wedding and in the days after, Samoa has made incredible progress in catching up with its island neighbours of Fiji and the Cook Islands in providing worldclass resorts at its many romantic locations. Samoa comprises two main islands, Upolu and Savaii, which represent 96 percent of the land area, and eight other smaller islands and all are nirvana for anyone who loves the sea. The beaches are white, wonderful and uncrowded and the water so clear. The main settlement of Apia is found on the island of Upolu. Scottish author Robert Louis Stevenson selected Samoa of all the South Pacific islands he visited as the place to spend his final years. He died here in 1894. Samoa was first settled from islands to the west from about 3000 years ago, the first European to sight Samoa was Jacob Roggeveen, a Dutchman, in 1722. The arrival of the English Protestant mis-
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sionary John Williams in 1830 led to mass conversions of Samoans to Christianity and profound changes to Samoan society. In the 1890s the islands were divided between American rule in the eastern group, centred on Pago Pago, and those of the west, ruled by Germany. When the First World War began in 1914, Western Samoa was occupied by New Zealand troops, and New Zealand controlled these islands until Samoa became the first South Pacific country to gain independence in 1962. Samoa’s population is about 180,000, with most people living in the 362 villages. Our circumnavigation begins at Lotofaga, where we admire the Sopoaga Falls spewing from the far hillside before learning from our colourful host that the coconut originated in Samoa. As elsewhere in Polynesia, the coconut is revered as the provider of life, including food, milk, fibre and leaves for clothing and shelter. But when it comes to cracking the hardy nut, this is the first time we’ve seen it done with a mighty karate chop instead of with a machete. We perhaps shouldn’t be sur-
prised at the physical approach taken by Leva, who not surprisingly is related to the heavyweight boxer David Tua. At Vavau we wander down to one of the most beautiful beaches in the South Pacific. The golden sand, turquoise water and palms bowing to the trade winds is the playground of a few fortunate souls renting beachside fales. The grand old Piula Methodist Church holds a special secret. Now nearly 100 years old, this place of worship stands sentinel over gin-clear spring water bubbling up into rocky caverns. Fellow travellers tease us with stories that giant eels inhabit the Piula Cave Pool. In true adventure-land fantasy, we jokingly wonder whether it is possible to dive from the far end of the cavern via an underwater stream to another cave. It seems we are in a land where fantasies can become reality, when two large eels are seen patrolling the pool’s edge just as we begin swimming in the refreshingly chilly waters. Then, a fellow swimmer informs us it is possible to follow the underwater
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WEDDING DESTINATIONS ◊ Samoa feature
stream by holding our breath for 15 to 20 seconds and emerge in another bay. Instantly we stop our jests and remain silent for the remainder of this circumnavigation. There is not a single suggestion that we’ll encounter the ghosts of Robert Louis Stevenson or his wife, Fanny, walking along the verandahs of Vailima. Joking on a day when jests become instant reality is clearly fraught with danger. At the golden sands of Lalomanu, the halfway point in our circuit of Upolu, we spread ourselves around a picnic hamper on an open beach fale. An impromptu game of beach rugby, using a coconut husk as the ball, provides noisy and dramatic entertainment as players tackle one another into the surf or make Hollywood dives for an imaginary try line into the soft sand. Soon the mood of a few of our wedding party turns to snorkelling. Off Lalomanu the water is clear, the fish colourful and even more inquisitive than their human intruders, but the star of this underwater show is the brilliant coral. We cross the summit road to Apia to explore the market and enjoy the waterfront spectacle. Colourful truck buses load or disgorge seemingly impossible numbers of commuters, fresh fish are sold from the back of pickup trucks and mothers nurse their babies in whatever shade they can find. Enticing as rural Samoa is, a day or two should be set aside for sightseeing in Apia, a friendly town located around a broad, sheltered bay. It is an important port for fishing boats, cargo vessels and overseas cruising yachts. Along Beach Road are numerous restaurants and bars, some of which could be straight out of a short story by Somerset Maugham, who passed through Samoa early in the 20th century. Samoa justifiably prides itself on being known as “the cradle of
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Polynesia.” These islands have been settled for about 3000 years, and ancient Samoa was a dispersal centre for ocean voyages to other Polynesian island groups, including the Cook Islands and the Marquesas. Samoans are devout Christians, thanks to the zealous work of Protestant and Catholic missionaries who arrived during the 19th century. One of the most striking features of the 45-minute drive from Faleolo Airport to Samoa’s capital town of Apia is that every village seems to have an imposing church. Many are new, but some date back to colonial times. They all add dignity and even grandeur to the village, standing out among the fales, or traditional houses and the fono, or meeting house. Attending a church service is essential when visiting Samoa to observe the intensity of the worship and the beauty of the congregation’s singing. Apia is 2890 kilometres from Auckland and 4400 kilometres from Sydney and wonderful destination for a “wedding week.” The island is warm throughout the year, with maximum temperatures averaging over 30 degrees Celsius from December through to February. The south-easterly trade winds cool temperatures slightly between about May and November, when it is also drier. The currency is the Samoan tala (dollar) and sene (cent) while the national language is Samoan. Most Samoans also speak English, the official language of government and business. Marriages in Samoa are legally recognised worldwide. To marry in Samoa you will need to fill in an application for a marriage license with the Ministry of Justice in Apia at least 14 days before your wedding day - but not more than three months in advance.
WEDDING DESTINATIONS ◊ TOP VENUES samoa
Seabreeze Resort Surrounded by gently swaying palms all nestled within a secluded private bay, guest will discover the magic of this exclusive intimate resort with only 11 luxury villas, ideal for those seeking a fairy tale setting in a tropical paradise. seabreezesamoa.com
Le Lagoto Dreaming of a wedding in the Pacific? Le Lagoto can make that dream come true. The bride is paddled to shore in a canoe while the groom waits on the white sand beach under an archway of tropical flowers. They are married to the sounds of the ocean and island hymns. lelagoto.ws
Coconuts Beach Club Resort & Spa CNN Go has recognised Coconuts Beach Club Resort & Spa on their Top 10 list of the World’s Best Wedding Venues. Weddings at Coconuts immerses the bride and groom in Samoan culture, as they are “adopted” by local village families, who assist in their very special wedding day. cbcsamoa.com
Sinalei Sinalei is a beach front paradise, where the irresistible beauty of nature surrounds all. Sinalei offers a range of 29 Villa hideaways with garden, ocean view or beach side settings and stunning abundant tropical surrounds. A utopia for couples, honeymooners and guests over 12 years of age. sinalei.com
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Hawaii’s romantic isles - made for romance Hawaii offers six romantic islands, ideal for couples and their guests, along with special locations, resorts, hotels and a superbly sophisticated wedding infrastructure. Hawaii, the “Aloha State,” also known as the “Pineapple State” or the “Youngest State”, is named from the Hawaiian language meaning “raging”, perhaps referring to Hawaii‘s volcanoes. Imagine exchanging vows at sunset on a serene Kauai beach or with dolphins swimming offshore in Hulopoe Bay on Lanai. Perhaps overlooking the Waikiki shoreline on Oahu or at the edge of a 2000-foot sea cliff on Molokai. Share the day with guests inside a wood-framed chapel in Upcountry Maui or beside a rushing waterfall on Hawaii’s Big Island. It’s little wonder Hawaii is one of the world’s most popular wedding and honeymoon destinations. Hawaii and its 1,523 nautical mile chain of islets and eight main islands are less than 10 hours from New Zealand and Australia. A couple planning to marry in Hawaii must fill out and sign the official marriage license application in person with the marriage license agent and if approved, the license will be issued at the time the application is made.
PHOTO: HAWAII TOURISM
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WEDDING DESTINATIONS ◊ TOP VENUES hawaii
The Beach House Restaurant The Beach House Restaurant on Kauai is well known for its spectacular oceanfront setting. The Beach House is the ideal location for wedding events where guests are treated to spectacular views, warm ambiance and gracious island hospitality with exceptional cuisine. the-beach-house.com
Haiku Mill The ruins of this vine draped, stone walled garden exude “Old Hawaii.” The spirit of Aloha and grandeur of the Hawaiian Monarchy is richly represented in this cathedral-like setting under the sky. The lush beauty is embellished by a collection of French antiques. haikumill.com
Ocean Crystal Chapel The Ocean Crystal Chapel was designed to make a bride’s dream become a reality. Conveniently located in Waikiki, the site offers both a pristine chapel setting with Victorian charm and the lush tropical oasis of the Ocean Crystal Gazebo, making it the perfect “Resort Wedding Experience.” hiltonhawaiianvillage.com
Halekulani Halekulani, “house befitting heaven” in Hawaiian, lives up to its name, offering an oasis of tranquility for more than a century. Guests will enjoy unforgettable cuisine at three award-winning restaurants, or relax at SpaHalekulani, and swim in the iconic pool. halekulani.com
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Lanikuhonua, Oahu Island, Hawaii Shereen & Sean Photography by Derek Wong
We were planning to have a big wedding in our hometown of Sydney and started looking at venues, then one night I had a dream that we got married on a beach in Hawaii. Sean and I met on a beach and became engaged on a beach, so it was only perfect that we get married on a beach. We used our wedding as an excuse to quit our jobs and travel around the world. Many of our guests used our wedding as an excuse for a holiday too. Our wedding venue was called “Lanikuhonua” on the island of Oahu. It has the saying “where heaven meets earth” and it couldn’t be more true. We decided to keep it a surprise for our guests. They didn’t know where the wedding was going to be until they all arrived by coach. We wanted the reception tables to look romantic and whimsical so we had different types of arrangements and flowers scattered everywhere with candles and crystals. The venue was so striking that we kept our colour scheme simple and elegant, white and soft peach. We chose a varied menu of traditional Hawaiian, Western and Asian food. We taste tested everything beforehand and our caterers from Kahai Street Catering provided exceptional service. We had a three-tiered cake by Cakeworks, Oahu. Our flavours were vanilla with passion fruit, chocolate decadence and coconut cream. The cake was served alongside an ice cream station where our guests could choose fresh fruit and crushed up sweets to put with their ice cream and cake. It was a hit. The music was an important aspect of the wedding for me so I spent a lot of time planning this for the wedding. We were happy with the outcome - the DJ even thanked us. The first song that comes to mind when we think of Hawaii is “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” by Israel K, which is a tune we both love. I walked down the aisle to this melody and it became our wedding theme song.
wedding inventory bride’s dress: I wore the Galante dress by Pronovias, Jimmy Choo shoes and Swarovski
jewellery. I completely altered the top half of my dress to make it my own. groom’s attire: The groom wore a black Ted Baker suit with a white Abelard shirt and a black and grey Hugo Boss tie. flowers: Flowers were an easy choice of my favourite, roses. makeup: I wore Mac makeup and kept it, along with my hair, natural and minimal because I wanted to look like myself on my special day. Being outdoors in the elements was an important consideration as well. music: We had the famous Hawaiian musician Kamuela Kahoano to play the guitar and sing for the ceremony and cocktail hour. We had a DJ play our favourite music for dinner and dancing. venue: Our wedding venue was “Lanikuhonua” on the island of Oahua and we found it by searching online. It stood out by miles above other venues and was an easy and exciting decision for us. planner: Carrie from Cherished in Hawaii Weddings. She is amazing and made our wedding exceed our wildest dreams.
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WEDDING DESTINATIONS ◊ WEDDINGS ON LOCATION
Erin and Will’s aim for their wedding day was to create a relaxed, intimate and casual event with only 70 of their closest family and friends. It didn’t take long for Will and Erin to choose The Heide Museum of Modern Art in Melbourne as the venue - because they both love Australian art. They decided to do a “first look” phototgraphy shoot before the ceremony - and it was the perfect way to see each other for the first time on their wedding day and have some private time together. The wedding took place in the gardens, under a heritage listed oak tree, and the short and simple civil ceremony was conducted by an old friend of Erin’s. Erin and Will arranged for a string quartet to play, and said how lovely it was to stay with all the guests after the ceremony enjoying champagne and relaxing with everyone instead of beign obliged to disappear for a wedding photo shoot. The reception was held onsite at the The Heide Museum of Modern Art, at Cafe Vue, which is part of Vue De Monde - Melbourne’s best restaurant. Because both Erin and Will are big foodies, having beautiful food and wine was a priority. The floral arrangement was created by Amy Wright from Wunderplant, and were an amazing reflection of what Erin and Will wanted the day to be - simple, artistic and intimate. Will and Erin made most of the decorations by hand or they got them through Esty, but all were personal in some way. Will’s uncle was the MC of the event, and Erin’s parents, Will’s mother, Will’s best man and Will all made speeches. It was a fantastic night, with a dance floor under the stars and only their best friends in the room.
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WEDDING DESTINATIONS ◊ TOP VENUES australia
The Lane Vineyard Nestled in the heart of the Adelaide Hills, The Lane Vineyard is picturesque, peaceful and the perfect setting to say “I Do.” With exclusive use of the property and its facilities, the bridal couple and their guests will find the open space and beautiful landscape breathtaking. thelane.com.au
Kingsbrook Kingsbrook is situated 90km (1hour drive) south of Adelaide on the Fleurieu Peninsula, bordering the McLaren Vale wine district. A wedding is a personal and individual celebration so Kingsbrook tailor the occasion accordingly. kingsbrook.com.au
Art Series Hotel The Olsen, South Yarra, will soon play host to countless art inspired lovers. Set alongside the hotel’s glass bottomed swimming pool, against a backdrop of Dr John Olsen’s original landscape paintings, teamed with a stunning Melbourne view - weddings are sure to be memorable. artserieshotels.com.au
Evergreen Restaurant As winners of the Best Wedding Reception Venue in Queensland and Best Restaurant on the Gold Coast, guests will be delighted by the restaurant quality dishes - from chef’s suggestions to personally tailored menus. criffelstationwoolshed.co.nz
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WEDDING DESTINATIONS ◊ WEDDINGS ON LOCATION
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- wedding on the waterways Venice is one of the most romantic cities in the world and Irina and Matteo knew the golden light, mysterious canals and hidden piazzas would be the perfect place to begin their marriage. They planned almost everything on their own and held the ceremony at the Hotel Westin in the Venice city centre, a five-star hotel on the Grand Canal right on the piazza San Marco - a public square that spans outward from the San Marco Basilica. Irina and Matteo’s photographer Damjan Fiket says that the Venice of imagination is not too far removed from the Venice of reality, and at the Piazza San Marco the architectural history of the basilica or “Chiesa d’Oro” - Church of Gold - gleams with gold patterned mosaics, and the rows of arches on its exterior beckon visitors to explore the darkened gothic corners. Irina wore a wedding dress was designed by Katarina Dzale from Croatia, and Matteo a Hugo Boss suit. After the ceremony and wedding feast together they cut the beautifully rich fruit cheesecake, sharing it with all their friends and family. When it comes to wedding photography Venice seems to inspire golden images like no other city on earth. Couples across the globe are photographed for their wedding albums on the streets of Venice with images that capture a sense of wonder and romance. The best way to start a photo shoot is with one of the city’s most iconic venues - the wide paved square of San Marco in the heart of the city. From there, couples can allow their photographic adventure to unfold through the many side streets, alleys, piazzas, and arching bridges before gently gliding along the Venetian waterways upon the most romantic of all modes of transport - the gondola.
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WEDDING DESTINATIONS ◊ WEDDINGS ON LOCATION
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From there, couples can allow their photographic adventure to unfold through the many side streets, alleys, piazzas, and arching bridges
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- romance in the spice islands Zanzibar, one of the fascinating Spice Islands, was the chosen exotic wedding location for Edita and Vishal. Photographer Christophe Viseux says Zanzibar, with its special island setting, enchants all who visit. Zanzibar, one of an archipelago of islands off the coast of Tanzania on the African mainland, is known for its export of spaces – particularly cloves, cinnamon, netmeg and black pepper. The island has a strong heritage that still shapes its character. Couples wishing to marry here need to know that under Zanzibar law a notice must be put on the municipal notice board for the intended marriage 21 days prior to the ceremony. There is no waiver possible – the 21 days is mandatory. After a short journey from Nairobi, Christophe was happy to finally meet Edita and Vishal at the Ocean Paradise Resort on the picturesque north-east coast. Here they went through the programme for the planned beach wedding. Christophe says beach weddings can offer great opportunities for photography but for portrait shots they also explored the winding alleyways and the ornately-carved doors of Stone Town. Stone Town is the historic city centre of Zanzibar’s capital, Unguja – a World Heritage Site. Christophe sends Edita and Vishal a big “thank you” for sharing their intimate beach wedding, which he described as a “blast to photograph.”
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WEDDING DESTINATIONS ◊ WEDDINGS ON LOCATION
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Beach weddings can offer great opportunities for photography but for portrait shots they also explored the winding alleyways and the ornately-carved doors of Stone Town.
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“Get me to the church on time” the classic line is still relevant for many - while for others the venue and the means of arriving are as creative as their imagination. Couples often do want to make a statement. It is their day and they want the world to know it. “Getting to the church” in the 21st Century doesn’t always mean getting to a church, but wherever the ceremony is being held the wedding party still has to arrive on time. Whether by limo or launch, by helicopter or horse and carriage, by island ferry or charter plane - even dropping in by parachute. They can travel in style to their wedding on land, sea or by air, and be as traditional or as unconventional as they like. Every wedding destination has its own beautiful setting for exchanging vows. Couples can easily match their occasion to the extraordinary photography opportunities that are particular to each location. In Europe, there are so many instantly recognisable and ancient architectural landmarks for wedding photography. Australia offers beach and vineyard while New Zealand adds marvellous alpine loca-
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tions to its own vineyard and beach opportunities. The islands, well, they offer islands, beaches, tropical sunsets, and surf on the reef. Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf has an array of islands close enough to New Zealand’s largest city for the bride and groom to escape and celebrate a destination wedding with just about as many guests as they like. Wedding parties can cruise to the perfect location on Waiheke or the Great Barrier Islands. A scheduled or charter ferry means they can load up any vehicles that are needed, drive to Sealink’s Half Moon Bay or to the downtown Auckland terminal. By using the drive on, drive off service the wedding couple can have an island wedding without the need to transfer bulky luggage and wedding accoutrements. SeaLink also offers vessels for charter within the inner Hauraki Gulf on the vessels Seaway and the Seamaster, both of which operate from Half Moon Bay. Wherever the wedding, where there’s a will there’s a way. Make the transport a feature of the celebration and take the opportunity to try something romantic, different or adventurous.
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WEDDING DESTINATIONS ◊ EX BRIDE EXPERTISE
E Expertise By Hermine Banks PhotograPhy by malia johnson
A wedding is probably the biggest party a bride will throw in her lifetime. Planning it can be one of the most exciting yet stressful processes. Having recently planned my wedding in a short period of time, below are some tips from a personal perspective of some things that worked (or didn’t) for me. Before doing anything else, brides should decide on the style they want for their big day. Are they a romantic at heart, a modernist, a couture queen or a haute boheme? Do they want a casual affair, a formal sit down celebration, a mid afternoon tea party or a cocktail soiree? Picking the style and feel early in the planning process will help centralise ideas and assist with finding a venue. When picking a venue the location, food and drinks are the obvious criteria. It’s important also to consider logistics (how accessible is the venue, travel time, accommodation for out of town guests) and whether they can accommodate the theme of the wedding. Beware of places that attempt to “churn” out weddings on an assembly line.
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Personalise. Personalise. Personalise. Couples who want their wedding to be memorable will ensure it reflects their personalities and who they are as a couple. Get inspiration from everyday life - family backgrounds, common interests and passions. Use ideas from other weddings (wedding blogs and magazines are a great resource) and tailor them to suit. Carry a notebook and pen - who knows when inspiration will hit. Create an inspiration board. Unless the couple are already skillful dancers (and even if they are) get lessons for that first dance. We found the lessons to be a fun way to pick up a new skill together and a great time out in the chaotic lead up to the wedding. Photographs will be the lasting memory of your day, so make sure to choose a photographer carefully, someone that understands what is wanted and is able to capture the “moment” unobtrusively. Great music equals a great party, so don’t let it be an after thought. It’s possible for a wedding to fizzle and fade not long after dinner if the music doesn’t help to keep it going. Discuss a list with the DJ beforehand and pick someone who knows
how to play to the guests. Or, if picking music, get input from family and friends. Do not be afraid to ask for help. We planned our wedding in five months, which would have been an impossible task without help from family and friends. We were surprised by how many people volunteered and were excited to partake. Most brides lose some weight (without trying) before their weddings. So try the dress on again at least a week before the day and get any necessary alterations. It’s not much fun having bridesmaids fussing around all day with fashion tape because the dress no longer fits (yes that did happen to me). Choose the MC wisely. A great MC, particularly someone with a good sense of humour and who can think on their feet, will ensure the wedding day runs smoothly. And finally, after all that planning, the actual day passes in what feels like a heart beat so make sure to take time to enjoy moments with family and close friends. And do not forget the most important person - your spouse. The day is about the two of you, so don’t forget to spend a few moments alone, even if it means finding some time to take a walk quietly together.
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WEDDING DESTINATIONS ◊ TRASH THE DRESS
BY Rowena Bahl photography by malia johnson
rash the dress, drown the gown, rock the frock, fearless bridal - whatever we would like to call it, trashing the wedding dress after the ceremony is surely a phenomenon that is rising world over, all in the name of one thing - art. Why not? We all enjoy a good piece of art. The best part of trash the dress is that we don’t have to be Picasso or van Gogh to create our own artwork. Instead, the day after our wedding we can get a little wild with full creative license, making that dress worth every penny spent. What else would we do with our dress after the wedding day? When all the razzmatazz fades the dress is usually packed up and left in the back of our closet for years. For those who haven’t yet been exposed to this slightly insane yet refreshing ritual - it’s when a bride (and groom) go on a photo shoot wearing their wedding attire in an unusual environment. It is all about the creation of artwork in the act of destroying the dress - well not completely, there is always the dry cleaning service after the photo shoot for those of us who cringe at the thought of being parted from our beloved gown. So where on earth did all this insanity start? Let’s just say a
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good soap opera never fails to hook its audience. Trash the dress was born in 1998 through the melodramatics of a well-known soap - Sunset Beach. Yes, that’s right, it gained popularity when the wedding reception of one of the characters was interrupted by her husband’s supposedly dead ex wife. The bride, Meg Cummings, let emotion take over and ran out onto the beach, where she threw herself into the ocean, wedding dress and all in the hope of drowning her sorrows. That scene soon became a work of art when photographers saw the beauty in the contrast created between the delicate fabrics of the wedding dress, its symbolic virtues and that of an environment where it did not belong. John Michael Cooper was the first photographer to turn this idea into a trend and his unconventional take on the concept gained international attention. Brides from all over the world began trashing their dresses, rocking their frocks and drowning their gowns - it became so popular as to spark a “mass trash the dress.” In 2009 more than 150 Dutch women got down and dirty in their gowns on a beach in the Netherlands, following in the footsteps of the first American mass trash the dress of 2008.
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t has been called the Loire Valley of the southern hemisphere or Napa Valley Downunder. Locals just call it Wine Country, but Hawke’s Bay needs no comparison and with some of the country’s most exclusive wineries, it is fast becoming New Zealand’s top wedding destination. There is a romance in wine that, like love itself, is impossible to define. Both must be experienced to be appreciated, and perhaps that is why vineyard weddings have captured the hearts and imaginations of so many couples looking to plan a wedding outside the box. New Zealand’s oldest wine region and second largest producer, Hawke’s Bay - with its summer sunshine and premium venues - has earned its reputation as one of the country’s leading wedding destinations. While most regions host their top restaurants and wedding venues in the bustling city centre, Hawke’s Bay has its own hidden away in rolling river valleys, beneath sweeping peaks and amid the vast expanse of vines which produce much of the area’s best Syrah, Bordeaux blends, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. Because wine is about making a statement on terra firma as much as in the glass itself, Hawke’s Bay’s premier wine estates have spared no expense in creating architecturally spectacular restaurants in which to match their best blends with fine cuisine. Combined with a landscape that dishes out drama in an almost cavalier way and an eclectic mix of activities both high octane and deliciously slow paced, it is understandable why wedding guests are always quick to RSVP for a wine country wedding. But a wedding is about practical considerations as much as
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emotional ones, and the simple fact is that at any of a dozen breathtaking venues in Hawke’s Bay, a bride can prepare herself in a luxury vineyard villa before being walked on her father’s arm to her ceremony, have wedding day photography taken on-site and be back with her guests for a five-star meal before wandering back to gorgeous accommodation, this time on the arm of her new husband. The next day the newly-weds can join their guests in exploring a region that has a little bit of the best of everything - uncrowded golden sand beaches, rustic farmers’ markets and vibrant history in the buzzing art deco city of Napier, where a modern airport connects the region to the rest of New Zealand. As a wedding photographer, my challenge is to strike the balance between beautiful locations and practical matters such as the time spent away from guests, while still creating a collection of images with several different looks and feels. With their crisp green vineyards, moody cellars stacked with French Oak and dramatic architecture, Hawke’s Bay wineries provide breathtaking backdrops without the need to waste precious moments during the wedding day travelling to farflung locations. There is a magical symmetry between the concept of growth and renewal in a vineyard which underscores the important principles of marriage. Wine and the making of wine is a labour of love where so many elements come together and the passing of time can, in the right conditions, make a good thing great. It’s something Hawke’s Bay has mastered, both in the bottle and as a place to say “I do.” Eva Bradley is a Hawke’s Bay-based wedding photographer and writer. To see her Wine Country weddings, Visit evabradley.co.nz.
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WEDDING DESTINATIONS â—Š FINE FOCUS
Kate Robinson Photography
Mary Sylvia Photography
katerobinsonphotography.com
marysylvia.com
Alpine Image Company
Derek Wong Director/Photographer
Australia
Queenstown & Wanaka alpineimages.co.nz
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Wellington
Hawaii
derekwongphotography.com
WEDDING DESTINATIONS â—Š FINE FOCUS
Commodores Occasions on Niue Niue Island
Damjan Fiket Ref lexion Photography Croatia
commodore@niue.nu
reflexionweddings.com
Dreamlife Photos & Video
Sonja Gardien Photography
Auckland
dreamlife.co.nz
Auckland sonjagardien.com
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WEDDING DESTINATIONS â—Š FINE FOCUS
Iwan Photography Bali
iwanphotographybali.com
Christine Chang Photography Los Angeles and San Francisco christinechangphoto.com
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Jessica Photography Auckland
jessicaphotography.co.nz
Christophe Viseux Photographer Paris, Rio, Dubai
christopheweddingphoto.com
WEDDING DESTINATIONS â—Š FINE FOCUS
Williams Photography Auckland and International williamsphotography.co.nz
Life Actually
Auckland and International lifeactually.co.nz
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WEDDING DESTINATIONS â—Š FINE FOCUS
Nordica Photography
Vancouver, Canada and Stockholm, Sweden nordicaphotography.com
Ming Dong Photographer Auckland
mauidong@gmail.com
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WEDDING DESTINATIONS ◊ FINE FOCUS
Malia Johnson Photography Fiji
maliajohnsonphotography.com
Eva Bradley Photography Hawke’s Bay
Evabradley.co.nz
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beautifully engineered for lightness antlerluggage.co.nz
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