Engaged Wedding Magazine - August 2011 by Hamilton Media Limited

08/ 2011

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Ocean Front Weddings at Castaways Karioitahi Beach, Auckland Register here for

Castaways Wedding Open Day Saturday 27 August, 2011 (No entry fee) If you’re looking for a fabulous venue and setting for your wonderful wedding, this is a must attend event, so register now. *Be in to win a Castaways Weekend Escape Package*

“We want to thank you again for our absolutely amazing wedding. Some guests said it was the best wedding they’ve ever been to!” (Castaways Bride & Groom, 2011)

~ unique ~

~ memorable ~

~ affordable ~

Notes from the Editors...

Winter is certainly upon us and, although it might be nice for the ski fields, it can pose a bit of a dilemma for those getting married. Never fear though as we have some great tips for you this month to ensure that your winter wedding is as amazing at it deserves to be.

Cover Credits:

Photography: Amy Schulz Photography www.amyschulz.co.nz Model: Becky & Reon

Advertising Enquiries: Contact: Tim Hamilton Email: info@engaged.co.nz Phone: 021 448817 Post: PO Box 137101, Parnell Auckland 1151 Hamilton Media Limited accepts no responsibility for material provided by readers or advertisers. All material supplied is assumed to have been provided with the consent of the appropriate copyright holders Engaged is subject to copyright in its entirety. All rights reserved in material accepted for publication unless initially specified otherwise.

We also have a fantastic photo spread from Amy Schulz who has a style that is perfect for beautiful weddings. This month we also announce the winner of Jessica Photography’s themed photo shoot - can’t wait to see that spread when it is featured in an upcoming issue of Engaged! Finally, don’t forget to check out our inspiration page which showcases some cool and funky things we have come across this month.

Have a great month!

Tim & Gabrielle

table of WINTER WEDDINGS

TOASTY WARM

72 20

INSPIRATION 102

6 engaged

WHAT’S NEW 4

contents 32

REAL BRIDES 54 40

COMPETITION WINNER

WELLINGTON 5

92 engaged

Jo Ling bridal DESIgn Jo Ling Bridal has a new website. Based in Whakatane (but supplying brides throughout the country), you may have seen some of their dresses listed on the Weddings.co.nz dress listings. Jo Ling Bridal provides authenic designer gowns (they come with all relevant paperwork, certificates of authenticity etc) at very reasonable prices. Check them out at www.jolingbridal.com

flowergirls & brides Flowergirls and Brides is having a re-launch celebration sale. They have specials on bridal gowns, bridesmaid dresses and flowergirl dresses. Visit them at: www.flowergirlsandbrides.co.nz

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s New Vintage Accessories for your wedding Having relocated to Auckland from London, Vintage Simplicity specialises in the supply of an eclectic mix of unique vintage china and accessories for Weddings, Corporate Events, Garden Parties, Productions & Photo Shoots. Vintage Simplicity can also provide a bespoke styling and wedding design service based on your ideas and aspirations to ensure that your event is truly unique. For more information, visit: www.vintagesimplicity.co.nz

Ocean Front Weddings at Castaways Karioitahi Beach, Auckland Register here for

Castaways Wedding Open Day Castaways is having its wedding open day on Saturday 27 August. The open day provides a great way to see Castaways in full wedding setup and chat through your wedding plans with the wonderful staff at Castaways.

“We want to thank you again for our absolutely amazing wedding. Some guests said it was the best wedding they’ve ever been to!” (Castaways Bride & Groom, 2011)

~ unique ~

~ memorable ~

~ affordable ~

The open day is free - you just need to register here: http://www.castaways. co.nz/WeddingInvite.html

wairarapa wedding expo - 26-27 august The Wairarapa Wedding Expo is a showcase of the Wairarapa’s wedding specialists, with approximately 30 exhibitors ranging from caterers, gowns, wedding venues and transport, florists, photographers, health and beauty and more. Entry to the Wedding Expo is FREE! Plus every bride who visits on Saturday, will get a complimentary Goodie Bag packed with ideas, vouchers and samples. Friday 26 August 2011 - 5.30pm - 8.00pm (Prior to Wairarapa Bride of the Year) Saturday 27 August - 10.00am - 2.00pm Copthorne Hotel and Resort Solway Park, Wairarapa

e your own unique jewellery. stom designs with delight. Beautiful wedding jewellery for Beads for embellishment. you and your bridesmaids w.beadsgloriousbeads.com www.beadsgloriousbeads.com

gsland Tce, Kingsland, Auckland

COMPETITIONS TICKETS TO “SOMETHING BORROWED”!

WIN!

Friendships are tested and secrets come to the surface when terminally single Rachel (Ginnifer Goodwin) falls for Dex, her best friend Darcy’s (Kate Hudson) fiancé in the smart, romantic comedy “SOMETHING BORROWED” – In cinemas August 11 We have 5 double passes to give away! To enter, just click the link below, fill in your details and answer the simple question! Click here to enter

VENOM BEE MASK COMPETITION Congratulations to the following who each won a pot of Abeeco’s Bee Venom Mask! Georgina Gordon Angela Jayne Jane Van Weerden

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Jessica Photography’s Themed Shoot Competition Winner Jessica wants to thank all the couples who took their time in sending their entries. she was truly overwellmed by the amount of entrants she received. As she told us: “ OMG, there were sooo many amazing ideas, it was really hard to choose, I honestly would love to shoot them all”. But after careful consideration, the winning couple is: Renee Trestrail and Ben Courtman Their theme: “I would love to have an old fashioned ‘Alice in Wonderland’ shoot complete with pet bunny in a romantic, sunlit foresty area in Auckland. I’d also love to include a large door and a top hat, bow tie and vest for Ben. I think it would make an amazing editorial photoshoot and would be so much fun!!” “I loved Alice in Wonderland themed idea”, recalls Jessica “While reading Renee and Ben’s themed idea, I was already picturing all the scene in my head!!! Loved the Alice in Wonderland story and I am soooo looking forward to start planning and working with all my team and with Renee and Ben. I’m sure will be fun, fun!.... can’t wait!!!”

Jessica wants to celebrate BIG her 5th birthday!! As part of the free themed photoshoot that Jessica will be shooting, she will have any incredibly talented team that will be part of this great prize: Hair and makeup for the shoot from the extremely talented Nicki Collett: www.nickicollett.co.nz Styling from the brilliant Amber Davies using vintage clothing from her Viva La Vintage Shop: www.facebook.com/vivalavintagenz She will be joined by the fantastic stylist Isobel Masters. On the next pages you will find a glimpse of Jessica’s amazing work from her five years as a professional photographer during which she has shot everything from children, pregnancy, editorial, commercial to backstage and catwalk of New Zealand Fashion Week. Don’t forget to check out Jessica’s work at www.jessicaphotography.co.nz

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Lily Love Kanzashi Haircomb This delicately constructed Japanese haircomb is made from 3 lilies and 2 ume flower using white polyester habutae. Lily Love measuries 11cms wide by 7cm high and is attached to a plastic haircomb. It can make in a range of colours to suit. It can also be made using vintage kimono silk (although will be more expensive). USD$55 http://www.etsy.com/listing/77010648/lily-lovekanzashi-haircomb

I Do. Me Too. Vintage Wedding Fork Set For something a bit different, here are some vintage hand-stamped forks. Each fork is unique with a patina that will change over time. Right now they are lovely...slightly naturally aged in all the right places. Forks are true vintage and may show some areas of plate loss, pits, etc. Absolutely beautiful in an imperfect way. USD $17.99 http://www.etsy.com/listing/69443850/ i-do-me-too-vintage-wedding-fork-set

Inspiration

With the New Zealand dollar so strong at the moment, we thought that we would look at some cool wedding accessories available overseas. Enjoy!

Custom Superhero Wedding Cake Toppers Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s right - superhero cake toppers! You can choose Batman and his bride, or any Superhero you like (check out the link below to see some examples of other superheros) If you go for Batman, your superhero and his bride can grace your wedding cake for your special day, personalized with your wedding date, and custom made to suit your needs. USD $63.00 Available from http://www.etsy.com/ listing/74767504/custom-superheroand-bride-wedding-cake

PAPER RECORD-PLAYING WEDDING INVITATION Here is something pretty cool and a bit different. Brooklyn-based graphic designer Kelli Anderson designed the wedding invitation for her music-making friends. The invite has a needle and record containing a recording of the coupleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s original wedding song. Click here to view a video of it in action: http://vimeo. com/22306468

DIY Vintage Jar tealight holders Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s something we thought looked pretty cool and would be a great way to add some ambience to your winter wedding. These are easy to make and just require, jars (vintage-style are best). some heavy floral wire, wire cutters, tealights, sand and ribbon.

Photo by Geoff L Johnson: http://www.geoffsphotos.com

007 Secret Agent Cufflinks A few hidden surprises make this pair of cufflinks a favorite with wedding groomsmen everywhere. They feature a sleek stud design, enhanced with silver-tone chrome accents. Each cufflink has a cleverly designed screw-off top, which can conceal a roll of paper, pills and other small items. Stylish and functional, they’re completely customizable, too - just add your groomsman’s initials in bold Roman font for a complete, classy look. USD$45.95 http://www.americanbridal.com/mencufflilnks-18220.html

1920’s Style Hand-Beaded Head Band This Lanvin-inspired 1920’s headband is a simple wide grosgrain ribbon that can be tied in the back, and worn in many ways. It can be worn in the true flapper style down on your forehead, or in a more modern style pushed back on top. USD$165 http://www.etsy.com/listing/76200202/ wedding-lanvin-hand-beaded-head-band

Photos courtesy of Daria Bishop Photography : http://www.dariabishop.com/

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FEATURE

Winter Weddings tips for planning your perfect winter wedding

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When some of us think of winter, we think beautiful winter whites, sparking silvers and icy blues. The tone is pure and fresh and new – what a perfect metaphor for a wedding! Those in the other camp think of themes that are rich with opulent fabrics and bold jewel colours – deep, warm and comforting, just as a marriage should be! Both themes can work equally well for winter weddings. What’s more, just because it is winter doesn’t mean your wedding can’t be elegant and fun! There are, of course, certain things you do need to think of when planning a winter wedding:

Light Winter brings quite a different light than you find in summer weddings. Having the sun low down and setting early has both advantages and disadvantages. The low sun generally brings a gorgeous soft light, which can create stunning photos. Assuming it is out, the sun is also more likely to have a nice yellow glow to it; perfect for romatic photos. The flip side is obviously that the sun will be setting earlier. This means that, if you are having your wedding in the afternoon, you may not have a lot of time to get your photos done before the sun sets. If photos are important to you, you should check with your photographer before you finalise your timing to work out whether the light will be sufficient for them to get the style of photos that you are after.

Props Rather than winter being a disadvantage, there are many aspects of winter that can be to your advantage. When styling your wedding

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and your photos, you have a fantastic opportunity to take advantage of the season and use things like bare tree branches hung with crystal garlands, drops, feathers and fur, objects ‘old and interesting’ in tones of white and silver. Or use gorgeous fabrics and candles, open fires, braziers and old lanterns to create a warm, luxuriant setting. Or be theatrical or adventurous and try and mid-winter festival or masquerade celebration! The beauty of winter is that it can be rich and warm and invites a bit of mid-winter madness – be quirky and fun and give your guests something to remember! If you are after beach style shots, winter means that beaches are generally free of the summer crowds. Provided you wrap up warmly against the sea breeze, you can get some stunning shots on near-empty beaches.

All warm and snuggly: Never underestimate the cold, both in the rooms for your ceremony and reception, but also when choosing clothing and transport. The last thing you want is to look a lovely shade of blue (a la Marge Simpson!) and be so cold your warm, loving feelings just aren’t managing to heat you up! When meeting with your church or ceremony venue, find out what heating they have available (in case you need to hire some yourself) and ensure that they put their heaters on early in the day to take the chill off the room. Extra heaters are also a good investment – we have some suggestions for alternative heat sources in this month’s issue. These heat sources can also provide excellent soft light for photographers (a great topic to discuss with your photographer!). Cars should be well-heated (but not too humid – don’t want to ruin that lovely hairdo and makeup!). If you prefer the simplicity of the horse and carriage described in last month’s issue, be sure that the carriage is loaded up with pretty blankets to wrap you and your beloved in!

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If you don’t intend to wear a long-sleeved gown or special wrap during the ceremony and reception, ensure that you carry some type of wrap for wearing whilst you are waiting for photographs. It is a great idea to check the wrap or cape or jacket doesn’t shed lint or stray cotton that will cling to your dress. We have some wonderful examples later in this issue. Also think of your bridesmaids – we are sure they will have the same warm, loving thoughts you do about your big day, but we are not sure their adrenaline will be running so high and keeping them glowing! They will also be likely to be waiting around a fair bit while you and your husband are having your photos taken.

Covering up: With New Zealand’s (okay, we mean Auckland’s) unpredictable rain, it is also a good idea to carry a brolly or three with you. With the fashionable umbrellas available, you are bound to find one that fits with your theme and looks great in those pics! Or check out the range of parasols on offer.

Keeping it clean: With rain and snow comes mud and slush. This of course needs to be remembered when walking anywhere, climbing in and out of vehicles, sitting, and posing for photos. Just take care that you don’t step any potholes filled with muddy water and ruin that beautiful gown and shoes! Your shoe sales person and dress designer may be able to suggest simple solutions to any problems such as this (other than just keep inside!). This is also something to consider when planning the locations for your photos - if you are having to walk across large expanses of grass to

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get to your photo location, check whether it is likely to be boggy or muddy as it might be worthwhile considering an alternative. Of course, the groom and groomsmen should just be able to carry the bridal party across any muddy patches....

A certain light: With the sun setting a little earlier in winter, and without the benefit of daylight savings, keep in mind the timings for both the ceremony and reception. Ask your photographer when the light will be best and plan your times around this â&#x20AC;&#x201C; whilst photos in the dark can look amazing, winter lighting can be something very special and you should aim to take advantage of this!

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Warm and hearty: During winter, people’s thoughts tend towards rich, comforting fare and it is important that you serve food keeping in mind our bodies need a little more fuel in winter. Think a glorious steak with red wine jus... mmmm....

Floral tributes: With flowers being more expensive due to availability in winter, try to use flowers in season and produced locally. Bestblooms.co.nz has a great list of what flowers are in season during the winter months: http://www. bestblooms.co.nz/ismyflowerinseason.html

The cost benefit: One big benefit of getting married in winter is that there is not as much demand for venues and other wedding related vendors. In the winter months, suppliers may be willing to offer special rates or to negotiate on price – not always, but it doesn’t hurt to ask! A winter wedding can be a visually stunning event and will often be remembered because you have chosen the so-called off-season. As with any wedding, careful planning and being aware of the issues can make your wedding something truly special!

Credits for the photos accompanying this story: The wedding of Rebecca Robinson and Reece Morrow Flowers by Anna Hiatt of Pure Chaos, Photography by Debby Heard Photography Styling by Emma Newman Weddings

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visionworks

Packages from $1495 www.visionworks.co.nz engaged

Daniela & Dan

Married at St Josephs Church, Pauatahanui Dress by Voon engaged

REAL WEDDINGS

Detail

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in the

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Amy Schulz is one of the rising stars of New Zealand wedding photography. She has a great eye and manages to capture all of the beautiful details that you find with weddings. As you will see from her spread her, she uses a lovely mix of classic and contemporary photography, which provides a fantastic range of shots for any couple. Enjoy! www.amyschulz.co.nz

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Katie & Chris

Married at family farm, Christchurch Dress by Voon 43

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Desinee & Paul

Greek Orthodox Church, Mt Victoria Wellington Shoot at the Embassy Theatre Make up by Dara Wakely 53

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Becky & Reon

Sudbury Fields Kapiti Coast Flowers by the bride

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FEATURE

Toasty

Warm

New Zealand has some fantastic outdoor venues, complete with stunning views and that distinct Kiwi natural feeling. It would be a shame to see these beautiful balconies and patios go to waste in winter, so how do you make it work for your wedding? Here are some suggestions for making those outdoor areas nice and toasty.

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Walled in Before any heat source is added to an outdoor area, make sure the area is as closed in as is possible. A number of venues are set up with roller shades that act as temporary walls. These keep the wind out and heat in. Check that your venue has â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;wallsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; like this available for any outdoor area and ask to see what they look like. Safety first Safety should always be a priority. Remember that any heat source can become extremely hot and take precautions to keep guests, especially children, at a safe distance. With open fires, be aware of sparks and any damage that could be done to clothing or decorations near the open flames. It is also important to ensure there is adequate ventilation in the room you are heating. There are three main heat sources available: Open fires The most romantic of the three, an open fireplace just screams romance. The flames, the sound of crackling firewood, the smellâ&#x20AC;Ś. An open fireplace is also the least portable of the heat sources. Your venue needs to have a fireplace as part of its charms before you can utilise this one and many venues sell themselves on having a roaring fire in winter!

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One point to note is that if the outdoor area is not completely closed in to keep the heat in, then the fire can become a concentrated heat source – the closer you are to it, the warmer you will be! You may need to keep this is mind for guests seated at tables far from the fireplace or those too close to it. Gas heaters A very portable and effective alternative is the gas heater. These range in shape and size and provide great radiant heat, generally up to an area of five metres. Free-standing gas heating is great for bar areas, as guests are able to mingle around same with drinks and nibble in hand. Depending on the height of the heaters, this option may also work for seated areas, as long as the upright poles of the heaters are not blocking anyone’s view of the bridal table and speeches. These types of heaters work best in sheltered areas so that the flame does not blow out in strong winds. (Safety note: check your heaters automatically shut the gas off when the flame is extinguished.) Gas heaters are also available as fixed heaters (ie overhead) and work in the same way. Your venue will advise if they are available in their outdoor function areas. Most portable gas heaters run on bottled gas. A 9kg ‘BBQ’ bottle will last for up to approximately 12 hours when the heat is on full. If your venue does not have gas heaters you can hire them for $80-140 per day each, dependent on whether gas, delivery and set-up fees are included.

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Gas flares are also available for a more dramatic touch. These may be hired for approximately $75-$130 per day each, again dependent on whether gas, delivery and set-up fees are included. Gas flares are only suitable for outdoor use. Braziers and chimineas A brazier is basically a metal basket on legs which is filled with coals to provide heat; whilst a chiminea is clay or cast iron on legs that is shaped like a pear â&#x20AC;&#x201C; well, a pear, with an open mouth for the coals and a chimney at the top!! Both provide a lovely ambience, with open flames, as well as providing a source of heat. Again, as the flames are unguarded, ensure you take adequate precautions, especially with braziers being below eye level - it can be quite easy for a tipsy guest to walk straight into one!! Gas heater available.

braziers

are

also

Braziers may be hired for approximately $60 per day. Chimineas are a little harder to find.

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- Made to Measure - From $500 - Free delivery - Wide Selection - High Quality Click below to visit us now!

www.donnazuri.com Are you looking for a professional hairdresser and makeup artist who can come to you on your wedding day? With over 10 years in the industry, Natalie is working extensively in Fashion, Advertising and Film, as well as creating stunning results for bridal parties. Natalie's work is both versatile and innovative, offering her customers the complete package without compromise. Please go to my website www.natalieshields.com to view my work and prices.

www.natalieshields.com

Through the Lens

Showcasing Photographic Excellence

Photograph by VisionWorks Photography

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Amy Schulz Photography

Website: www.amyschulz.co.nz Email: AmySchulzPhotography@gmail.com Mobile: 0211556071 Wellington and Nationwide

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Suzanne McNatty - Photography by Design

Website: www.photographybydesign.co.nz Email: mcnatty@ihug.co.nz Mobile: 027 567 5990 Associate Member NZ Institute of Professional Photography Southland

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projectShot images

Award-winning wedding photography & video production Website: www.projectshot.com

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Email: info@projectshot.com Mobile: 021 685 871 Auckland

Dilworth Photography Website: www.dilworthphotography.co.nz Email: dilworthphotography@gmail.com Phone: 027 468 1865 Auckland

Greenapple Photo & Video Studio Website: www.greenapple.co.nz Mobile: 021 119 5567 Auckland

Email: wearegreenapple@gmail.com

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Amanda Wignell Photography Website: www.awp.co.nz Email: amanda@awp.co.nz Phone: 09 426 2647 Mobile: 027 615 3078 NZIPP Master of Photography Auckland and Northland (NZ Institute of Professional Photography)

Brett Lees, Unique Visions Photography Website: www.uniquevisions.co.nz Email: brett@uniquevisions.co.nz Phone: 09 8133 519 Mobile: 0274 913 061 Qualified Member NZ Institute of Professional Photography Auckland

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Jodie C Photography Website: www.jodiecphotography.co.nz

Email: info@jodiecphotography.co.nz Phone: 021 323 829 Auckland & Nationwide

Emma Hughes Photography Website: www.emmahughes.co.nz www.weddingsonwaiheke.co.nz Email: emma@emmahughes.co.nz Phone: 09 372 8729 Mobile: 021 051 3292 Waiheke and Auckland Master NZ Institute of Professional Photography

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Jake Thomas Photography Website: www.jakethomas.co.nz Phone: 0220 941 273 Waikato & Nationwide

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Email: jake@jakethomas.co.nz

Mike Hill Photography

Website: www.mikehillphotography.co.nz Email: info@mikehillphotography.co.nz Phone: 07 863 1180 Mobile: 021 507 537 Waihi, Nationwide & International Qualified Member NZ Institute of Professional Photography

Jan Maree Vodanovich Photography and Art Website: www.janmareeart.co.nz Email: jan@janmareeart.co.nz Phone: 09 236 8553 Mobile: 027 281 5921 Auckland, Franklin, Hamilton

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Backyard Studio

Web: www.backyardstudio.co.nz Phone: 021 143 7289 Christchurch

Email: info@backyardstudio.co.nz

New Regent Studios Website: www.photos.co.nz Email: info@photos.co.nz Phone: 03 355 4448 Mobile: 027 229 2329 Christchurch

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Jessica Photography

Website: www.jessicaphotography.co.nz Email: info@jessicaphotography.co.nz Phone: 09 537 5533 Mobile: 027 658 8831 Auckland Qualified Member NZ Institute of Professional Photography

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VisionWorks Photography

Website: www.visionworks.co.nz Email: tim@visionworks.co.nz Phone: 09 845 5925 Mobile: 021 44 88 17 Auckland

Page 90 : engaged : May 2009

Jeremy Hill Photography Website: www.jeremyhill.co.nz Email: enquiries@jeremyhill.co.nz Phone: (09) 8263394 Mobile: 021 2279196 Auckland

Vicky Broadbent Website: www.vickybroadbent.co.nz Qualified Member NZ Institute of Professional Photography

Email: broadbent@xtra.co.nz Phone: 021 633 404 Coromandel and Auckland

Page 91 : engaged : May 2009

FEATURE

THE WONDERS OF

WELLINGTON

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ur fair capital, New Zealand’s third largest city, is largely known for its windy weather and odd-shaped parliament building. But secrets await those keen to explore the wonderful Wellington. For those who have never been, Wellington makes a fantastic honeymoon destination and, with flights being so cheap these days, the money saved on travel can be spent on living it large in the capital city!

We visited on a sunny long weekend. Stepping off the plane and out of the terminal we were greeted by blue skies and warmth – something sadly lacking in Auckland when we left earlier that morning! After the obligatory coffee (cafes are one of the many things Wellington does extremely well!), we hitched a ride on one of Wellington’s oldest tourist attractions, its cable car. The cable car departs Lambton Quay in town and travels up past the University to the Botanical Gardens. From the gardens an amazing vista of the city is laid out, along with some simply stunning gardens (where, incidentally, you can hold your wedding). A stroll through the gardens (downhill all the way) led us back into town and landed us at the feet of the Beehive and the other parliament buildings. Built between 1969 and 1979, the Beehive was so named because its structure resembles, you guessed it, a beehive, with the rooms and offices radiating from a central core. This is where our government works. To see it first-hand you can take a tour of the buildings, perhaps catching a glimpse of your favourite pollie.

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At this stage, lunch was needed. A bit more of a walk took us to Courtenay Place, where the choices are endless. Trying to be a little healthy, we have what could be the country’s best kebab at Sahara. Watch out if you do try them – the chilli sauce packs a punch! More walking followed lunch. It’s a short way to our National Museum, Te Papa from Courtenay Place. Free to enter, Te Papa is located on the waterfront (again, another stunning walk – all this exercise gave us justification for sampling all the great food Wellington has to offer!!). The Museum permanently houses the Awesome Forces, Blood Earth Fire, and Bush City exhibitions, as well as featuring special events such as the current New Zealand International Film Festival. You can quite easily lose yourself in the museum, so make sure you give yourself plenty of time. All that walking called for a short nap before hitting Wellington’s night life. As it does, things became a bit of a blur, but the standout bars were St John’s on the waterfront and a bar called Motel, which you probably will need a local to locate for you! The next morning saw us on the train for a trip up the Kapiti Coast, one of New Zealand’s famous cheese regions. The train trip itself is highly recommended. About an hour from the city, the journey is a picturesque one. Plus, there’s cheese at the other end. Kapiti produce award-winning cheeses, inspired by poetic notions likes the glow of the west-setting sun. Returning to Wellington, it was time for a spa and sauna at our hotel, the Rydges Wellington. Modernly refurbished, the Rydges is a short walk from town and only two minutes from the train station and a supermarket. After a soak, cocktails and dinner beckoned. We had been recommend Zibibbo by a number of experts – both Wellington-based and from other towns. With food inspired by Spain and Italy, the menu at Zibibbo is extensive. Unfortunately, due to our over-indulgence in food the day before and for lunch, we had to limit ourselves to some well-chosen tapas and a few wines.

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Although note that if you get into town on a Friday, they have 2 for 1 mojitos! Our last day in the capital was overcast, which was a great excuse to see a movie at the iconic Embassy Theatre. This was the theatre that Lord of the Rings premiered at and is a beautiful venue, right down to the bathrooms! A last coffee and some wonderfully healthy food from Deluxe Espresso Bay (next door to the Embassy) and it was time to leave. We sadly said goodbye to a gorgeous city filled with great food, amazing sites and a great deal of walking!

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Boutique Wedding Venue A wonderful wedding begins with a wonderful venue.

2 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 8 Maginnity Street, Wellington, 6011, New Zealand

T: + 64 4 4741300

The Wellesley Boutique Hotel located in Wellington's CBD has an ambience which is unique. Within the classical neo-Georgian building are facilities and appointments which make the Wellesley Boutique Hotel a superb wedding venue. Elegant drapes and carpeting, monogrammed silver and crockery, antique furniture, paneled walls hung with original paintings – all create an atmosphere of elegance. But selecting the right venue is just the start. Food, wines, flowers and so many details are all important.

The Grand Dining Room is magnificently panelled in oak, whilst the high stud allows for natural light through elegantly draped windows. This room caters for up to 120 guests banquet style or 200 for cocktails.

Our Grand Dining Room, where your reception will take place, is accessed via the sweeping staircase.

At the Wellesley Boutique Hotel we never forget whose wedding it is.

E: functions@wellesleyboutiquehotel.co.nz

Choosing the Wellesley Boutique Hotel means being able to call on the skills of our experienced wedding co-ordinator, who will work with you to ensure you create a wedding which suits your personal style – and your budget.

W: www. wellesleyboutiquehotel.co.nz

The Checklist Engaged to 9 months before Task

Notes

Done

Notes

Done

Announce your engagement, including notices in the newspaper Organise for your families to meet, if they haven’t done so already Choose your bridesmaids, groomsmen, MC, flower girls, page boys Discuss the type of wedding you want, including budget Compile a draft guest list (this will help determine venue size) Choose venues for the ceremony and reception Set the date and time for the wedding Choose and book the following: • Photographer • Videographer • Entertainment • Caterer • Florist • Transport • Wedding Co-ordinator • Celebrant Start thinking about your dress (you may need to book a dressmaker) Consider purchasing wedding insurance to cover those things that are out of your control which may result in the wedding being postponed or cancelled Have an engagement party

9 months before Task

Order your wedding dress Choose your accessories: veil, jewellery, underwear, shoes and so on Choose the attire for the rest of the wedding party as applicable: • Groom • Bridesmaids • Groomsmen • Flower girls • Page boys Select stationery including: • Invitations

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Task

Notes

Done

Notes

Done

Notes

Done

Notes

Done

• Thank you cards/notes • Place name cards • RSVP cards • Seating plan • Envelopes Book a calligrapher Send out save-the-date cards Contact rental companies to hire equipment, marquees, tables, etc Organise gift registry Start thinking about your honeymoon

6 months before Task

Order bridesmaids’ dresses Order/book the groom’s and groomsmen’s suits Help your mother and mother-in-law with their outfits Discuss your beauty regime with your beauty therapist Book in for marriage preparation course if needed Decide on and order your wedding cake Book your accommodation for the wedding night Investigate accommodation options for out of town guests Choose and purchase your wedding rings Make any honeymoon reservations

4 months before Task

Book hairdresser and make-up artist Order favours Discuss menu options with caterer/venue, including wine selection Organise entertainment if you are having children at the reception Speak with the celebrant or minister and decide on an order of service, responsibilities, speech making, readings, etc. Set your rehearsal date Let people know if they will be making a speech, doing a reading, etc Purchase wedding gifts for each other and the wedding party Organise time off work for your honeymoon Renew passports if necessary!

2 months before Task

Post invitations Write your vows Have your hair and makeup trials (remember to take your veil etc)

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engaged

Organise dancing lessons for the first dance Organise your hen’s and buck’s nights with the wedding party Confirm: • Flowers with florist – do they fit with the theme, colours, dresses • Menu with caterer • Accommodation for yourselves and your guests Organise any legal work, for example, pre-nuptial agreements, wills

1 month before Task

Notes

Done

Notes

Done

Apply for your marriage licence Confirm and finalise final guest numbers Make a seating plan (allow time for disagreements!) Have your dress fittings Organise bridal party’s final fittings (including accessories) Confirm groom’s and groomsmen’s outfits are ready Write your speech Confirm honeymoon accommodation and flight bookings Organise a house-sitter for while you are on honeymoon

2 weeks before Task

Confirm with everyone that you have booked for your wedding, advise final numbers and provide a emergency contact number to: • Venue • Caterer • Celebrant/Minister • Photographer • Videographer • Entertainment • Florist • Cake maker • Stationery • Car hire company • Hairdresser • Makeup artist • Favours • Hire company Make a list of everything that needs to be set up and/or taken to the ceremony and reception Have your final dress fitting including accessories. Take your chief bridesmaid so she knows how to how to attach your train etc.

engaged

104

Make sure the bridesmaids have their dresses, footwear and accessories Have your final haircut and colour before the wedding Make sure the groom has his hair cut Finalise seating plan for reception Write place cards Practise walking around in your wedding shoes Have hen’s night and buck’s night

1 week before Task

Notes

Done

Notes

Done

Pick up your wedding dress and hang it in a safe place Wedding rehearsal (you may like to give the bridal party their gifts then) Pick up hire items, including groom’s and groomsmen’s attire Confirm honeymoon arrangements Pack for honeymoon Have your engagement ring professionally cleaned Pack an emergency kit for the day Final check on arrangements and plan for the day: • Who has the rings? • Have you paid entertainers etc ahead of time or do you need to take money? • Who is taking the gifts home after the wedding? • Who is dry-cleaning your dress the next day? • Who is returning the suits? • Make sure the bridal party are aware of their roles • Give a list of important contacts to a trusted family member or friend (can be the chief bridesmaid or the mother of the bride)

The day before Task

Relax and spend some quality time on your own! Present each other with gifts and remind each other why you love the other Give wedding bands to the best man and/or chief bridesmaid to hold during the ceremony

The big day Enjoy yourself!

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engaged