Engaged Wedding Magazine - January 2009

engaged January 2009

WEDDING SONGS The top songs for your wedding

ISLAND WEDDINGS

Is an island wedding right for you?

WHO DOES WHAT?

FIGHTING FIT

Successful weight-loss tips for your big day

Your guide to everyone’s role at a wedding

DIAMONDS CHOOSING THE BEST DIAMOND CATERING SUMMER FOR BUDGET outdoors EasyYOUR entertaining

WEDDING INVITATIONS Invitation etiquette explained

FAIRWAY LODGE FUNCTION & CONFERENCE CENTRE

Celebrate in style and comfort at Fairway Lodge The perfect venue for a memorable wedding

Situated on the golf course at Takapuna Friendly professional service Very affordable all-inclusive packages Full bar and catering service providing fantastic food and wine Delightfully sunny deck From 50-150 guests

Cover Credits:

Phone 09 443 1770 Email fairwaylodge@clear.net.nz

www.fairwaylodgeauckland.co.nz

Photography: Fraser Clements Styling: Saira Yates from Mint Condition Make-up: Natalie Shields Hair: Natalie Shields Model: Hannah from Clyne Management Location: Alberton

Whew, 2009 already! We just know it is going to be a fabulous year, with many of you tying the knot and looking gorgeous in the process!

For those of you still with things to plan and dresses to buy, Engaged is the perfect magazine for you. Now published monthly, we hope to give you plenty of inspiration for your big day. This month, start by looking at our stunning real bride photos and our amazing photo shoot.

Advertising Enquiries: Email: info@engaged.co.nz Phone: 09 8455925 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 initally specified otherwise.

In the rest of the issue we give you hints for holding an island wedding, tips on the perfect wedding invitation wording, advice on how to choose a wedding MC and lists of who does what at your wedding. There’s also some fantastic catering advice, information about cuff links (a great present idea for your guy!), our lovely bride diaries, our list of the best wedding songs...oh, and some awesome healthy eating tips to kick off the New Year! We know we will be following it!

Wishing you a healthy and happy 2009,

Tim & Deborah

Notes from the Editors...

Happy New Year everyone!

THROUGH THE LENS

OUTDOOR CATERING Fuss-free catering tips

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50 74

BRIDE DIARY We follow two brides as they prepare for their wedding day

WEDDING SONGS Pick ther perfect songs for your wedding

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46 94 WEDDING INVITATIONS Tips for wedding invitation etiquette

ISLAND WEDDINGS Find out if a tropical island wedding is right for you

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48

CUFFLINKS The final touch

WEDDING ROLES Find out who does what

FIGHTING FIT Successful weight-loss for your big day

66 42 86

THE BIG MC Everything you need to know to be an MC

32

COMPETITIONS & GIVEAWAYS Heaps of prizes to win!

GARDEN OF EDEN Beautiful wedding dresses

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table of contents Page 5 : engaged : January 2009

Introducing nzdesigners.co.nz... This new website is entirely dedicated to showcasing emerging New Zealand fashion designers, jewellery designers, and bag and accessory designers.

What’s more they have a bridal wear section!

Whilst nzdesigners.co.nz is still in its infant stages, having been launched on the 10th of November, they already have some fabulous clothing, jewellery and accessories online, with new items being added daily. The site is set up for purchasing so you can buy directly from the designers. They also have some fabulous features on the website such as choosing a “favourite” designer and receiving an email update every time they add a new creation to the site. This will give you the opportunity to purchase first and as most of the creations on the site are one-offs or one of a very limited number, it’s unlikely you will be seen wearing the same outfit as anyone else... horror of horrors! Here’s your chance to get designer jewellery and dresses for your wedding at great prices! www.nzdesigners.co.nz

Summer is here and it’s time to get your jandals out again!

Many of us find that sexy summer sandals, jandals and other open-toe heels cause painful rubbing between our toes. To save us from discomfort, Scholl Party Feet has launched new Invisible Gel Toe Post Strips so you can wear your jandals and sandals all day and night and be pain-free.

Scholl Party Feet Invisible Gel Toe Post Strips protect and cushion the tender area between the toes, and provide immediate relief from the toe posts rubbing.

Each pack has two sets, so you can have one set of toe post strips for your everyday jandals and one for those ‘special occasion’ summer sandals.

Simply wrap the invisible gel cushions around the toe posts on your favourite shoes, and you can hang out at the beach all day then dance the night away without painful rubbing between your toes.

We have two Scholl Packs to give away. See page 100 for details!at

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What’s New

As soon as it hit the shelves at Glamorpuss Cosmetics, blinc’s unique mascara shot to the top of their best-sellers list. blinc is the original mascara to ‘tube’ the lashes rather than paint them like conventional oil-based mascaras.

Recommended by the fantastic makeup artist we used on next month’s fashion shoot, Stefan Knight, blinc’s unique formula is rubber-based and once applied, the tubes which it forms around the lashes cannot run, smudge, clump or fake. Panda eyes are a thing of the past. Talk about perfect for brides!

blinc mascara adds volume and length to lashes for a fresh look that lasts until the mascara is removed. blinc mascara is effortlessly removed with a combination of warm water and gentle pressure and without the need for eye makeup remover. It is perfect for contact lens wearers and those with sensitive eyes. Available at Glamorpuss Cosmetics in Newmarket, Albany or Christchurch or see www.glamorpusscosmetics. co.nz.

We have two fantastic blinc mascaras to give away - check it out on page 100.

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What’s New

Engaged is pleased to annouce that Russ Flatt is now taking a limited number of bookings to photograph weddings in 2009 and 2010 (at very reasonable rates - so be in quick!).

www.russflatt.com

Russ is the excellent photographer we used for last month’s fashion shoot. He has been working in New York for the last ten years and has photographed such celebrities as Yoko Ono and our very own Valerie Vili! You may have also have seen him as a guest photographer on ‘Make Me a Supermodel’! Check out our interview with him on page 24.

Highwic in conjunction with Urban Gourmet has a permanent, elegant white marquee set up in the stunning grounds of the historic home until the end of March 2009.

This beautiful, private home and grounds in the heart of Newmarket is the perfect setting for a truly special event.

For more information contact the team of expert Event Managers at Urban Gourmet on 09 366 3086 or www.urbangourmet.co.nz.

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ALBERTON ALBERTON 1863

A lovely centrally-located historic Auckland venue for weddings, civil unions, wedding photos and functions.

Indoor and outdoor options available.

Web: www.alberton.co.nz | Email: alberton@historic.org.nz | Phone: 09-846 7367

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Wedding Shows January North City Wedding and Bridal Expo 18 January 2009 Te Rauparaha Arena, Porirua City www.northcityweddingexpo.co.nz

February Wallaceville House Bridal Show 15 February 2009 2 Wallaceville Rd, Upper Hutt www.wallacevillehouse.co.nz Stamford Plaza Auckland Wedding Expo 22 February 2009 Stamford Plaza, Auckland www.stamford.com.au/spak

March Twilight Entertainments Wedding Exhibition 15 March 2009 Wingatui Racecourse, Mosgiel, Dunedin www.weddingexhibition.co.nz

Wedding Dreams Bridal Expo 29 March 2009 TSB Bank Arena, Wellington www.weddingdreams.co.nz

April

Dunedin Wedding Show 5 April 2009 Edgar Centre, Dunedin www.weddingshow.co.nz The Wedding Show 19 April 2009 Aotea Centre, Auckland www.weddingshow.co.nz Auckland’s Premier Wedding Expo 19 April 2009 ASB Showgrounds, Auckland www.bridalshows.co.nz Bride & Groom Magazine Show 26 April 2009 Ellerslie Event Centre, Auckland

Stamford Plaza Auckland Wedding Expo Sunday 22 February 2009 11 am - 3 pm FREE ENTRY You are engaged! Congratulations!

Join us for the Wedding Expo at Stamford Plaza Auckland and you are in to win a Bridal Package worth $10,000 $10,000, including flights to Port Vila!

Brides and grooms to be, looking for the newest trends or for expert advice, do not miss this opportunity.

Fashion shows Florists Photographers Bakers Lingerie Beauty products Wedding invitations Decorations Limousine rental … and much more!

Register online www.stamford.com.au/spak

The Goss Wedding News from Around the World

Britney & ?

Pop star Britney Spears has turned down not one, but two, marriage proposals!

Apparently both former boyfriend, Adnan Ghalib, and hair salon manager, Salvator D’Angelo, have proposed to the pop princess.

Tom Cruise & Katie Holmes Tom Cruise was so sure that he wanted to marry wife Katie Holmes that he bought an engagement ring after their first date! Lucky she was thinking the same, after dreaming of marrying him when she was a little girl.

Steven Ferguson & Shelley Hill Hmmm… it seems the readers of Cleo magazine didn’t have much chance with Cleo Bachelor of the Year entrant and Olympic kayaker Steven Ferguson: he is engaged to Cleo editor Shelley Hill!

Anne Hathaway & ?

Anne Hathaway is dreaming of marriage….well, the big wedding at least! Rumour has it that she

A

D AY TO R EMEMBER...

quite often finds herself thinking that it would be fun to get married at various places she visits!

Katy Perry & Travis McCoy True or not? ‘I kissed a girl’ signer Katy Perry is apparently engaged to Gym Class Heroes frontman Travis McCoy - or is she?

Johnny Depp & Vanessa Paradis An engagement may be announced soon for love-birds Johnny Depp and Vanessa Paradis. After being together for ten years, Depp may be about to pop the question after spending a lot of time in a particular jewellery store shopping for rings…

Leighton Stan

Meester

&

...fro m ex q u i si t e me nus a nd st u n n i n g v en u es, t o s e a m l e s s ev en t man ag emen t , le t U r ba n G o u rmet creat e a b eaut i f ul a nd u n f o rg et t ab l e d ay for you.

Sebastian

“Gossip Girl” star Leighton Meester and long-term boyfriend actor Sebastian Stan allegedly announced their engagement on their Facebook pages!

phone: +64 9 366 3086 email: weddings@urbangourmet.co.nz www.urbangourmet.co.nz

Island Weddings:

Making Your Big Day Bigger, Simpler and Sunnier!

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is the season for January wedding madness. Make-up, heels and forcing your way through traffic to your best friend’s wedding. Air-conditioning cranked up and sunnies on, you gaze wistfully out at The Perfect Beach Day. At the church you’re drawn into a last minute flurry of mishaps. You so wish there was an expert problem-solver at hand to coordinate everything. Just as the wedding night gets into its vibe with Aunty Marg dragging some cute 20 year-old boy up on the dance floor, the venue announces it is closing. You can’t believe you’re saying goodbye to everyone so soon…

chosen island will be all sunshine and cool breezes, there is a good chance that the weather will be warmer than New Zealand and the only weather hazard you will need to watch out for is sunburn!

Number One on Your List: Warm weather and sunshine

Solution: Tropical wedding in the Pacific Islands

Now your own wedding would be different…

Engaged looks at the pros and cons of an island wedding.

But remember there are no guarantees: even when getting married in the Islands, plan for the chance that there will be tropical rain. Resorts will always have ‘Plan B’ options available.

Oh , Those Photos

Weather

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This means that you can be more flexible with the timing of your wedding - you aren’t limited to the traditional New Zealand wedding season of November to March. This has the added bonus of increasing your chances of getting the sunny venue you desire.

npredictable New Zealand weather is every bride’s worst nightmare. With an island wedding however, whilst no one can guarantee that the weather on your

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he photo shoot location for your wedding is not just a background but a metaphor for your values, interests and lifestyle.

And what could encapsulate many Kiwi’s values, interests and lifestyle

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like the beach? The beach has such a feel-good, childhood-nostalgia feel to it that it becomes an essential part of many weddings.

Wedding Coordinator Extraordinaire ...

The difference between photos on a beach in New Zealand and on a beach on a tropical island? Firstly, there’s the weather as mentioned above. Secondly, with the abundance of palm trees and white sand in the Pacific, you know your wedding photos are going to be picturepostcard perfect.

he early bliss of planning a wedding can easily become a tangle of endless decision-making and nitty-gritty organising.

This is one of the huge benefits of having your wedding at a resort. Many resorts have their own wedding coordinator and offer flexible wedding packages which can include anything from floral ‘ei’s to a traditional canoe lagoon transfer with a warrior escort.

Venue Choices...

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ith so many resorts catering for If you are the kind of person who hates wedding parties, the quality of organising anything, the resort wedding venue choice is high and it comes down coordinator will be ideal for you (much to individual preferences. like Amanda in the ‘real bride’ Couples should consider story over the page). the size of their wedding You may like to pair this with party, whether they need Choose a resort help from a local travel agent. a resort that caters for children, and what sort of and relax with Pick someone who specialises extras they might want, ‘island-style’ in overseas weddings (such as Bon Voyage Cruises & such as photography. flexibility Travel) - this can alleviate “Whether your wedding organising stresses and provide party is large or intimate will many other benefits, such make a big difference to as experienced opinion on which resort is most suitable”, says Tonia particular countries and individual resorts, Timmins from Bon Voyage Cruises & Travel. and the ability to coordinate guest flights Do your homework - make sure the venue and accommodation bookings. can accommodate all of your guests and that the resort offers everything you need.

You can’t pop home if you realise you have forgotten something!

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Money, Money, Money

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basic wedding package can start from NZ$700 which includes the services of the resort’s wedding coordinator, marriage license, celebrant, flower ‘ei’s and other small extras.

Every resort has a variety of wedding packages, ranging from simple to island extravagance, and with off-peak prices and group rates an island wedding can prove great value for money.

Whilst this can be cheaper than a wedding in New Zealand, you also need to consider your guests’ expenses. Plan six months to a year in advance in order to give guests time to budget for the holiday.

Check out whether your agent, like Bon Voyage Cruises & Travel, can arrange group travel and accommodation rates as well as a delayed payment plan – this is definitely a big financial advantage.

Remember and accept that some of your guests may not be able to afford to come to your wedding for a variety of reasons.

Everyone Gets a Holiday

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ast but not least: Our choice for the single most fabulous reason for getting married overseas? Not only do you get an island holiday either before or after your wedding (or both!), but your guests

do too! Gathering your loved ones in one beautiful location gives your friends and family a chance to relax and get to know each other.

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hoosing an island wedding will transform your Big Day into a Big Tropical Wedding Holiday shared with friends and family.

And that’s a real bonus.

The Experts Tonia Timmins is the Wedding and Honeymoon Expert at Bon Voyage Cruises & Travel. Tonia and the team at Bon Voyage contributed extensively for this article and we are grateful to them for sharing their extensive expertise with us.

Make sure you see them to organise your beach wedding: their many years of experience, plus Tonia’s exceptional organisational skills, travel expertise and creative flair will help you create the island wedding of your dreams! www.bonvoyage.co.nz

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manda and Deane Clark were married at the The Rarotongan Resort & Spa.

he couple had never been to Rarotonga when they decided to marry there in October 2008. So why did they choose an island wedding?

The first reason was that Amanda and Deane liked the idea of having the sand between their toes and their wedding photos with the beach in the background.

The second one was a little political: Choosing a venue that suits everyone is always a difficulty, particularly when family and friends are scattered around New Zealand and overseas. For this reason Amanda was keen to choose a ‘neutral location’.

With Deane and Amanda both from different cities, they were having difficulty choosing which city to have the wedding in without feeling like they were favouring one side of the family over the other.

For Amanda, the third reason was that she also realised early on that organisation wasn’t her strong point. The couple had read a number of articles and reviews about island weddings and decided it sounded like a relatively stress-free way to go. To them, that definitely appealed, especially given the fact that, as Amanda puts it, ‘neither of them were very good at organising things!’

The couple brought Bon Voyage Cruises and Travel on board to help with the planning.

“Having never been to Rarotonga ourselves and because we were hoping to have quite a few guests, we felt it was better to have a travel agent help with all the arranging to ensure everything was organised properly and no details were missed”, says Amanda.

After they had chosen the venue, they started with the basic package and then picked and chose what extras they wanted. The resort then organised everything so they didn’t have to worry about a thing.

Amanda and Deane also felt that wedding costs were very reasonable compared to what the couple would have paid in New Zealand – and it included a tropical holiday with their closest friends and family! “Most of our guests came over to Rarotonga with us for a week leading up to the wedding. Our families hadn’t met before, so it was great for them all to have time to get to know each other and for us to spend time with them all for the week. “ Page 18 : engaged : January 2009

Page 19 : engaged : January 2009Photographer: Joanne Buck

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hris and Stacey Morunga were married at The Rarotongan Resort & Spa in October 2008.

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he Pacific Islands are such close neighbours to New Zealand that Chris and Stacey felt like they could almost call them home. An affection and familiarity with the island lifestyle was an attraction for then when choosing a wedding venue. They loved the islands and wanted their friends and families to have the chance to enjoy them too.

At the time they were two Kiwis living in London, so they also sought help from Bon Voyage Cruises & Travel. Initially the help sought was for organising flight and resort packages for New Zealand guests. “I started out looking for a wedding planner who could take care of travel arrangements as well,” says Stacey. “Instead I found a travel agent that would help with wedding arrangements!”

For them, the flexibility of the resort was a bonus when organising an island wedding, with Stacey telling the resort the final headcount the day before the wedding. The couple also liked the fact that the resort set up meetings with photographers and beauticians and went through every detail with the couple. “You just have to remind yourself that they do this nearly every day. If you think ‘maybe they haven’t thought of this?’ I swear to you, they have! We just had to wait and not get strap marks!”

Being able to arrange delayed payment by booking through Bon Voyage Cruises & Travel was a big positive for Stacey and Chris’ wedding party, and they feel that overall the wedding cost them a lot less than it would have in New Zealand. With large families and nearly 300 guests to invite, they planned 18 months in advance. The couple just left it up to their family and friends as to whether they could join them. They guessed that between 60 -100 would accept; they had 80 guests at their wedding!

Stacey and Chris also really valued the time spent with friends and family. They knew that they had beautiful friends and family, but they didn’t realise how little their friends and families really knew about each other. They watched many special new relationships develop and holidaying together like that helped bridge the gap between friends and family. “It was just so relaxed and stress-free”, enthuses Stacey. “My family and friends didn’t have to organise this or that, they just had to turn up with their dancing jandals on!”

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Photographer: Joanne Buck

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GETTING MARRIED IN The Cook Islands or Fiji Anyone wishing to be married in the Cook Islands must be 21 years or over. Wedding couples are required to be in the Cook Island and apply for their wedding license in person at least three working days before their intended date. If couples wish to register and marry in less than the required three days, a waiver application must be made by the wedding co-ordinator prior to their arrival in Rarotonga (there is an additional fee for this). All weddings in the Cook Islands are legal and recognised in New Zealand.

The legal age to be married in Fiji is 16 years for females and 18 years for males. Anyone wishing to be married in Fiji under the age of 21 years must have written consent from their father or from their mother if the father is deceased. The couple must present themselves in person at the Registry Office in Nadi between the hours of 8.30am and 3.30pm Monday to Friday with their Passports, Birth Certificates and a statutory declaration signed by a Justice of Peace, Notary Public or Solicitor confirming their marital status.

All weddings held in the Fijian Islands are legal and recognised in New Zealand.

Please ensure this information is correct at the time of your application by making enquiries with the appropriate authorities. You should also check www. nzembassy.com and www.dia.govt.nz .

RAROTONGA The main international airport for Rarotonga is Rarotonga Airport (RAR).

Air New Zealand and Pacific Blue fly direct to Rarotonga from Auckland. Flights from Wellington and Christchurch are via Auckland.

FIJI The main international airport for Fiji is Nadi International Airport (NAN).

Air New Zealand, Qantas and Pacific Blue fly direct from Auckland to Nadi, with flights from Wellington and Christchurch via Auckland.

Air Pacific flies direct from Christchurch.

SOME USEFUL WORDS: Kia Orana - Hello; Aere ra - Goodbye; Kai - Food; Meitaki - Thank you

CURRENCY: Rarotonga uses the New Zealand Dollar LANGUAGE: Cook Islands Maori and English

TIME ZONE: Rarotonga is 23 hours beind New Zealand FLIGHT TIME: Approximately 4 hours flight time from Auckland to Rarotonga

SOME USEFUL WORDS: Nibula - Good day; Bula - Informal Hello; Vinaka - Thank You; Ni sa yadra - Good morning; Ni sa moce - Good bye/Good Night.

CURRENCY: $1 New Zealand Dollar = approximately 0.97 Fijian cents LANGUAGE: Fijian and English

TIME ZONE: Fiji is one hour ahead of New Zealand during daylight savings FLIGHT TIME: Approximately 3 hours flight time from Auckland to Nadi

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Weddings in Paradise

“Choosing Bon Voyage Cruises & Travel to organise my wedding travel arrangements was the first decision that I made, and by far one of the best! Tonia has such a broad range of knowledge in destination weddings, her advice was invaluable! From arranging packages for my family all over New Zealand to helping me choose the right resort for our wedding. We not only had the perfect wedding, we also enjoyed a fabulous holiday with our family that we will never forget.�

Stacey and Chris Morunga October 2008

Expert in Paradise!

Tonia Timmins is our Wedding and Honeymoon Expert, using her exceptional organisational skills, travel expertise and creative flair to design beach wedding and honeymoon packages. All wedding packages we feature are at resorts Tonia has visited, enjoying the hospitality and charm of island paradises in the quest to find the best Pacific wedding and honeymoon destinations.

Bon Voyage Cruises & Travel CRUISES & TRAVEL

8a Cleveland Road, Parnell, Auckland Ph 368 6808 www.bonvoyage.co.nz

Meet the Experts

Russ Flatt: Photographer

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ngaged caught up with Russ Flatt and chatted with him about his history, thoughts on wedding photography, touching up photos and much more...

E:

How long have you been photographing for? Have you always been a photographer?

RF:

No, I picked up a camera for the first time when I was 24, so that was 13 years ago.

E: So you started pretty late in the piece.

What made you get into it?

RF: I was living in London and I needed

some kind of focus in my life. Partying can be quite a strenuous vocation! I had quite a creative upbringing in terms of art and painting and expressing myself in different ways. It was really weird - living in London I would walk down the street and I would just see things in frames and think “that would make such a great photograph�.

It was almost like listening to the signs, seeing the signs and then acting upon the signs. I bought a second-hand Nikon SLR camera and started doing some night courses. And it just evolved from there. I did a two year foundation course, went to university for a little while and then fell into assisting other photographers.

E: How long were you in London for?

RF: I was in London for five years, I studied

for about three of those years. I was assisting as well towards the end of those five years for a fashion photographer in London and he introduced me to some photographers in new York. I already had some friends in New York who I visited at Christmas so I made the move to New York in 1997 and ended up staying there for 10 years.

E:

So it must be quite strange coming back to New Zealand?

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RF: It definitely is quite different. It has made

me realise a lot of things firstly about myself, where I am from, where I grew up and my Maori side. And it has also been incredibly inspiring for my photography as well. It has broadened my creative horizons.

E:

So do you get a wider variety of photography here?

RF:

Yes, I do and I am free to explore new things. I’m not set in just one particular photograph that I took in America. That is how I started working there - just doing one picture that people started to get to know, the treatment I did on it. Whereas here, I can be broad and experiment and shoot fashion, kids, portraits, weddings and landscapes. It is all part of being a photographer.

E: You have obviously done a lot of fashion,

editorial and portraits.

How does that working in with the style that you have for wedding photography?

RF: I think my style for weddings is a mixture

of very traditional kind of portraiture and also documentary snapshot. So it is quite a big range of things that I capture during the day. The formals and then the really spontaneous, really beautiful moments within the day.

E:

What should people look for when choosing a wedding photographer?

RF:

One of the big things is choosing someone who you really get on with.

Obviously, you have to like their work and make sure that they are going to get what you need. You should write a list of your expectations and then make sure that you have a really nice rapport with the photographer and that he’s not some idiot that is just going to take over your day and ruin it.

E: Digital or film?

And why?

RF: You know what, I was bought up on film

and I love film, but since I turned to digital I love that medium as well. So, it depends what you are shooting as to whether you use film or digital. For traditional old portraits, they are lovely on 4x5 or 8x10 film cameras.

Whereas the reportage documentary is wonderful on digital as you can see exactly what you have and don’t have. But these days, with the quickness of the turnaround and what people expect and what labs expect, it a definitely digital nation that we live in. With the possibility that film is going to be defunct soon (with polaroid having been discontinued), it is turning into a digital world. Which is sad, but it reflects the time that we live in. You have to evolve with technology.

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E:

Do you think that with digital, people expect a lot more from their photos, especially in the way of retouching?

RF:

I think that the beauty of digital is being able to enhance people’s beauty. I am not into turning people into caricatures of themselves or anything like that. If someone has a blemish or something like that which is pretty minimal, where playing around with the photo can make the image so much nicer, I am all for treating the image that way. I am always looking to make my brides look their absolute best. And photoshop can definitely help.

It is hard to believe that five years ago, we were hardly using it.

E:

So what has made you get back into doing weddings?

RF:

I just really like the idea of sharing someone’s special day with them and being able to give that couple a really beautiful album of that day through your vision. It is nice, as long as you don’t have to deal with a bridezilla, it is a really wonderful experience.

E: Have you come across any bridezillas?

RF:

No, I have been fortunate enough not to have the displeasure. Having said

that, a lot of it is about the photographer managing the bride to ensure that it isn’t stressful for her. It is obviously one of the most important days of the bride’s life and she is going to be a little bit stressed out. But if you have a photographer that is beside you, and isn’t in your face (or if they are, they are really nice about it and make you feel really good about yourself) and isn’t too intrusive, then it should be a really nice day for everyone. It shouldn’t be stressful at all.

E: Are there any current trends that you see emerging in wedding photography?

RF:

I see a lot of people doing very out of focus, black and white, dreamy abstract wedding photography and, although it is beautiful, you can’t actually see who it is - it could be anyone. I am all for taking beautiful, memorable arty photographs but I think that photos that are too ‘out there’ will date. Whereas I am more of a traditionalist - you have a checklist and you get all of that that you think is important during a wedding day and they are really well composed, technically-able photographs and you put a slight treatment over them to make them your own - I think those photos are far more likely to last the test of time.

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The Great

Outdoors

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Contributor: Nichola from Wanaka Catering www.wanakacatering.co.nz

ummer is supposed to be the time when we all take the spirit of the season to relax, unwind, and break from our usual routines. But when you’re entertaining, there is still usually a bit of pressure to make sure your guests are happy and enjoying themselves. For those of you having an outdoor wedding, rehearsal dinner, or after-wedding brunch or barbeque, anything that can be done to ease the pressure helps. Nichola from Wanaka Catering gives us her tips on how to survive and delight your guests with outdoor catering….

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ntertaining outside can be a daunting thought, whether it is for a formal occasion, such as a wedding or another important event, the food is a vital part of the day.

With the wedding day as the central focus, it is great to keep the food for the rehearsal dinner or after-wedding event simple and easy. And what could be easier than a barbeque? Entertaining outside on a barbeque doesn’t always have to involve sausages: you could try whole pork belly stuffed with apricots, shallots, garlic, a little white wine and parsley, then rolled and cooked slowly for about an hour under the hood of the barbeque. With a fresh garden salad and some minted new potatoes you have yourself a feast for you and your friends!

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f you are looking for something a little different, why not invite your friends for a cocktails and canapés evening? Choose two or three different summer cocktails and serve a variety of canapés that complement the cocktails. Just remember to compare and contrast your flavours: if you are having a spicy tuna roll, choose the cooling flavour of a cucumber and watermelon mojito. If you are having fresh oysters, serve a spicy Bloody Mary. Just remember, that if it’s the night before the wedding, you don’t want to overdo those cocktails!

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hen you have a number of people to entertain, catering in the great outdoors has a number of advantages. First, you can minimize your indoor cleaning because guests won’t be spending much time in your house. Second, you won’t need to decorate as much since nature provides a lovely setting for your party. And, finally, outside entertaining keeps most of the post-party clean up to a minimum since the food is served and enjoyed, along with the crumbs, outside.

Your wedding breakfast is one of the major aspects of your wedding day. Its time for your guests to relax together, families to meet, and your wedding to be celebrated.

Ph: 03 443 4129 or 021 304 293

www.wanakacatering.co.nz

Page 30 : engaged : January 2009

I

f you would like to spruce up your outside entertaining area to emphasize the festive nature of the event, try and keep it simple. Set your tables with a place setting and add colorful napkins on the top of the plates; with a few vases of flowers and candles in the middle of your table your guests will be wowed.

S

erve ice cream and sorbets for dessert. Dessert doesn’t get much easier than scooping out everyone’s favorite cold treats when the weather is on the steamy side. Add a few do-it-yourself toppings including fresh summer fruit and guests can customize to suit their tastes. Keeping the meal and dessert light also complements the meal you are sure to have at the wedding.

F

orget about the “kids” table, or at least the kids’ chairs. When the children are outside, you don’t expect them to stay in one place for very long, do you? Give them a place to park their plates of food, and maybe a picnic blanket to sit on for the thirty seconds or so they sit down to eat. If you’re using paper plates, write their name on the border of the plate so they can easily identify their own food from their friends.

Watermelon Cucumber Mojito The perfect refreshing drink for those hot summer days....

4 triangles seedless watermelon, about 3 inches high and 1 inch thick 7 cucumber slices (6 of them seeded, 1 for garnish) 3 large sprigs mint 45 mls vodka (or Korean soju if you have it) 20mls fresh lime juice 20mls simple syrup (boil granulated sugar in an equal amount of water until the sugar dissolves, then cool before using) 15mls ginger ale 1. In a shaker, add three watermelon triangles, six slices of cucumber, two sprigs of mint, the lime juice and the syrup. Muddle.

2. Add the vodka or soju and fill the shaker with ice. Shake vigorously for six seconds.

3. Strain over fresh ice into a tall glass and top with the ginger ale.

4. Place a watermelon triangle and a cucumber slice on a toothpick and place in glass for garnish along with a sprig of mint.

Credits Photography: Fraser Clements Styling: Saira Yates from Mint Condition Make-up: Natalie Shields Hair: Natalie Shields Model: Hannah from Clyne Management Location: Alberton

Garden of

Eden

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Earrings and bracelet available from Vinka Brides Dress by Vinka Brides Shoes by Charlotte Bedogni

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Earrings and necklace by Chaumet from Hartfield Dress by Anna Schimmel Shoes by Charlotte Bedogni Page 34 : engaged : August 2008

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Earrings from Vinka Brides Veil by Anna Schimmel Rosette by Natalie Chan

Necklace from Vinka Brides Dress and lace jacket by Teresa Lim Page 36 : engaged : August 2008

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Jewellery and veil from Vinka Brides Dress by Liz Mitchell Shoes by Charlotte Bedogni Page 38 : engaged : August 2008

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Veil from Vinka Brides Necklace by Chaumet from Hartfield Dress by Teresa Lim Page 40 : engaged : August 2008 Shoes by Charlotte Bedogni

8 Teed Street. Newmarket 5221139 www.alarobe.com Page 41 : 09 engaged : August 2008

B ride Diary Rebecca & Phil Rebecca and Phil are one of the couples Engaged is following in . the lead up to their wedding Both Australian, Phil and Bec ing have decided to have their wedd their families and friends in Australia, where the majority of mental Manager and Phil, are located. Bec, 30, is an Environ tion). They met through a 29, is a Project Engineer (Construc en together almost 4 years mutual work colleague and have be ch other from a far before (although both admit to admiring ea during a weekend away in they met!!). Phil proposed to Bec Phil popped the question by Wellington in September last year: m (Bec had booked them organising a surprise 5-star hotel roo owers, champagne, a card into a backpackers), a bunch of fl urse, the ring. Rebecca and with “will you marry me” and, of co to try to plan a sustainable Phil have decided that they want presented a number of wedding. As you will see, this has challenges... time we interviewed two “While we were in Melbourne last small country town we are celebrants. Both are local to the getting married in. in person, which was great, We were able to meet one of them m (rushing around looking but we were a little late to meet the e time!), so the celebrant at wedding things really does tak h her background in the came across a little rushed, and wit to the point. This was a little defence force she was direct and dding is to have a relaxed off-putting as our main goal for the we

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impressed us with her willingness atmosphere. Having said that, she g our requirements and had to bend over backwards with meetin rticularly the one about ‘what good answers to our questions, pa We left the meeting happy, but makes a memorable wedding?’. on after meeting with another thought we would make our decisi celebrant.

had to be interviewed over the The other celebrant unfortunately in Melbourne. A friend found phone as she was away when were her picture up while we were her for me on the internet, so we had ndly and relaxed and we felt chatting on the phone. She was frie hours. She had lots of ideas like we could have talked to her for ony incorporating symbolic on how to make a personal cerem hand fasting. Working through gestures such as ring warming and about other aspects of the day the decision process made us think and after the ceremony, who such as live or recorded music before may like to have, how we can would give me away, readings we want our vows to be blasted incorporate family and friends, do we hear, or would they be personal out on a PA system for everyone to commitments to each other… years ago, his celebrant forgot When my brother got married a few er commitments! A few stern to turn up on the day as he had oth friend in the bridal party and it words to the celebrant from a good important question for us to ask: all turned out okay but that was an on the day or an emergency what happens if the celebrant is sick ns we found on the web when pops up? We used other questio stions relating to celebrant interviewing celebrants such as que they go through for writing a qualifications, the kind of process ss for registering certificates with unique ceremony for us, the proce ere the celebrant’s responsibilithe appropriate agencies, and wh ties start and stop. t month!”

Not much else to report.... more nex

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Successful Weight-Loss for your Big Day...

N

alisha Patel from HealthMastery Mobile Personal Training tells us how to eliminate simple mistakes so you can shape up for your wedding day: Sometimes the journey to our ideal weight and healthy lifestyle is derailed by small and simple mistakes. If you are not seeing results from all your hard work, do not give up! We look at six common weight-loss blunders people make and what to do about them to get back on track in time for your big day!

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1. Expecting to lose weight like everyone else

W

ho hasn’t had a friend that started a weight-loss program with you and they lost weight at a rapid pace, while the dial stayed stuck on your scales? It is very common for some people to lose weight immediately upon starting a weight loss program and for others to start gaining momentum after 4-5 weeks to get the same results.

This can be very frustrating and demoralising if you see others succeeding before you. Just know that if you are doing everything right; i.e. eating well and exercising consistently then you will eventually get results.

At the start of your weight-loss program you are bound to notice a shift in your sleeping patterns and energy levels for the better. So focus on these positives aspects until you see the change in your dress size and shape.

If you need to, seek help from a professional to ensure you are on the right track.

2.

M

Disheartened by a plateau

ost people set out with the intention to lose weight and radically change their lifestyles. After dropping a few kilos, many people

expect this to go on indefinitely until they reach their ideal weight.

This is just not the case. Realise that everybody eventually reaches a plateau. Consider it a rut for the body. Use this plateau to experiment and mix up your routine to kick-start your results again. A plateau also gives you time to reflect on what you are really doing.

Start a food diary where you track your eating over 5-7 days (always include a weekend) and really look at where you may be overindulging.

Also assess your workouts. Are you finding your routine boring and unchallenging? The more used to something we are, the more we operate on autopilot which doesn’t deliver results. Try a new sport such as squash or increase the weights you lift and the whole routine.

3.

Expecting rapid weight-loss

I

t pays to have realistic expectations when you start any weight-loss plan. Many brides leave losing weight until the last minute and expect to lose ten kilos in six weeks!

Give yourself time to reach your weight-loss goals. Aim to drop one kilo per week as this ensures you are more likely to keep it off.

Many TV shows show an unrealistic portrayal of people losing rapid amounts of weight. This is not do-able without a large team of

experts and is not to be tried at home!

The general rule of thumb for all good personal trainers is “the slower you lose weight, the longer you will keep it off”. Allow yourself enough time to lose the recommended one kilo per week to reach your goal weight.

4.

Eating less to lose weight

T

his used to be a long held belief which made the most dedicated dieters trip up. Most people are now becoming more aware of the recommended “five small meals a day” rule. It is so important to eat enough kilojoules so your body can run smoothly, your metabolism can stay fuelled and that you take in the right nutrients to have a functioning mind and body.

Plan a weeks worth of meals in a diary, with five small meals a day (three main meals and two small snacks). Planning really helps to ensure you know exactly what you are going to eat and also stop any unnecessary binging that occurs when we are famished.

Seek out a professional for a more accurate measure of how many kilojoules you should eat a day to reach your goals.

5.

Not rewarding yourself

T

oo often we get hung up on what we haven’t achieved and fail to take note of the huge accomplishments we have. Many clients lose upwards of 8-10 kilos in 12 weeks, yet still feel unsatisfied that they have five kilos to go!

When you start a weight-loss plan I really recommend mapping out milestones or measures along the way to your ultimate goal. When you reach a milestone, go out and celebrate. Most people shouldn’t have food related rewards, so choose something like an afternoon at the movies, a massage (if this suits your budget) or even a new running singlet.

The key is to always acknowledge what you achieved. Yes, you are trying to look fantastic for your big day, but realise these new habits will serve you for life. Aim to make this a new lifestyle.

Don’t get caught in the trap of thinking success is a destination!

It may already be under your nose and you just have not acknowledged it.

6.

E

Giving up at the first hurdle

xpect that along the way of the journey to your weight-loss and health goals you will experience setbacks and challenges.

Everybody has them. Remember hurdles are designed to be jumped over!

Most people hold the assumption that if, for example, they skip a day of working out or they overeat, then their whole plan is doomed. Just get up, dust yourself off and keep going.

Start again tomorrow or rectify the situation immediately if you can.

Basically plan to fail and you will ensure that any set backs that pop up, will pass without fuss. No matter what, you will always be moving in a positive direction.

L

ike anything in life, losing weight is a challenge. Hopefully the above

Exquisitely Crafted Jewellery

tips help you become aware of any mistake you may have been making on your path to better health and wellbeing. Work at your own pace, eat well, move your body and stay excited about what you are doing for yourself and looking good on your big day will be the bonus!

HealthMastery is New Zealand’s leading Mobile Personal Training service provider. HealthMastery Ltd offers comprehensive mobile personal training and health and fitness consulting services. www.healthmastery.co.nz

Cornelius Jewellers Handmade Engagement & Wedding Rings

Brighouse

Handmade Jewellery and Design 09 239 2502 50 Edinburgh St Pukekohe brighouse_design@xtra.co.nz

158 Jervois Road, Herne Bay, Auckland Phone: 09 376 9169 Mobile: 0272 484 409

www.corneliusjewellers.com

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The Finishing

Touch

A

beautiful set of cufflinks can be the perfect way to complete a groom’s outfit. With the amazing range of cufflinks available, there is something to suit every wedding. The cufflinks can be matched to the wedding colours or just to the groom’s individual style.

Opposite page (clockwise from top) Duchamp spotty hand-enamelled cufflink - $199 Working Style sterling silver cufflink finished with a black lacquer - $149 Duchamp striped hand-enamelled cufflink - $199 Duchamp floral circle hand-enamelled cufflink, finished in 22 carat gilt plate - $199

There is also the option to have cufflinks crafted especially for you. Specialist jewellers, such as Greg Holland Fine Jewellery, offer a personal design consultation with the resulting individually crafted pair or pairs of cufflinks reflecting the couple’s style and personality. As well as at formal occasions such as weddings, they look impressive when worn with a French cuff and suit or with a shirt on its own with a pair of jeans for a more casual look.

What’s more, it is not only men who order cufflinks - many women now choose to wear cufflinks to complement their outfit.

There really is no limit to what style, shape, colour, theme, or material from which a cufflink can be crafted from. There is also a trend toward utilising family crests as a theme and also popular are Celtic knots with the addition of colour with enamel.

Working Style sterling silver cufflink - $149

Greg Holland Fine Jewellery specialise in precious metals, especially

All cufflinks available from Working Style

and platinum. To discuss handcrafted cufflinks, contact Greg at

www.workingstyle.co.nz

hand crafted numbered and limited editions from ethically sourced gold www.greghollandjewellery.co.nz

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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 & Nationwide

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Rob Driessen Photography

Website: www.rdphotography.co.nz Master NZ Institute of Professional Photography

Email: rob@rdphotography.co.nz Phone: 04 479 7769 Wellington

David Kerr Photography

Website: www.thewedding.co.nz Email: dave@thewedding.co.nz Phone: 0800 21 SNAP (7627) Mobile: 021 398748 Nationwide

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Brett Lees, Unique Visions Photography Website: www.uniquevisions.co.nz Email: brett@uniquevisions.co.nz Phone: 09 817 7014 Mobile: 0274 913 061 Qualified Member NZ Institute of Professional Photography Auckland

John-Paul Pochin Website: www.WeddingPhotography.co.nz Mobile: 021 623 207 Nelson, Top of South Island

Email: John-Paul@WeddingPhotography.co.nz

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Bruce Millar - The Photographer Website: www.thephotographer.co.nz Email: bruce@thephotographer.co.nz Phone: 09 634 4097 Mobile: 0274 897 587 Auckland

Suzanne McNatty Photographic Design Website: www.suzannemcnatty.co.nz

Email: photography@suzannemcnatty.co.nz Phone: 09 435 2500 Mobile: 027 277 5990 Northland & Auckland Qualified Member NZ Institute of Professional Photography

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Russ Flatt

Website: www.russflatt.com Email: russ@russflatt.com Mobile: 021 997886 Auckland

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Liz March Photography

Website: www.lizmarchphotography.co.nz Email: photos@lizmarchphotography.co.nz Phone: 09 8109 056 Qualified Member NZ Institute of Professional Photography Auckland

Photography by Marijke Email: mail@photographybym.co.nz Phone: 07 572 4085 Mobile: 021 560 509 Bay of Plenty and Nationwide

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VisionWorks Photography VisionWorks Photography

www.visionworks.co.nz Email: tim@visionworks.co.nz Website: www.studioname.co.nz info@studioname.co.nz Phone: 09 845 5925 Mobile: 021 44 88 17 Phone: 09 123 4567 021 123 4567 Auckland Auckland

VisionWorks Photography Website: www.studioname.co.nz Email: info@studioname.co.nz Phone: 09 123 4567 Mobile: 021 123 4567 Auckland

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Carmen Hancock Photography

Website: www.carmenhancock.co.nz Email: hancock.com@xtra.co.nz Phone: 021 176 2115 Central Otago

Veronica Gunn Photography

Website: www.veronicagunn.co.nz Email: photographer@veronicagunn.co.nz Phone: 04 976 4493 Mobile: 021 239 2991 Wellington BDes Photography, Hon.

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Invitations

Your Guide to Wedding Invitation Etiquette

Y

our wedding invitations are often the first glimpse your guests will have of the theme for your wedding.

The invites let them know, not only the important details of where and when, but also whether your wedding will be formal or informal, beach or garden, church or otherwise. They set the style and increase your guests’ excitement about the event.

Who to Invite?

One of the biggest political problems facing brides and grooms is the

question of who to invite to the wedding? This, of course, will be influenced by a number of factors: your budget, the number of family members on each side, and the number of people your venue will hold.

Your list should start with family members (brothers and sisters, grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins), then close friends of the bride and groom, family friends who have watched your grow up, work colleagues, and close family friends of the bride and groom’s parent.

Both sides of the family should have the opportunity to invite an equal number of guests, however don’t feel like you have to stick to this if you come from a family of eight brothers and sisters and your beloved is an only child!

The ‘B’ list So, is it right to have a ‘B’ list? It would be great if you could afford to invite everyone to your wedding, but unfortunately most budgets won’t stretch to this and certain friends and family will have to be excluded from

the invite list. If you do get your invites out early and receive a number of replies from people that are unable to attend, you may be able to invite people who didn’t make the first cut.

However, make sure you handle this delicately as no one likes to think they are second-choice!

After-Party If you find the invitation list decision just gets too hard, try to think of alternatives like just inviting some guests to come party after the reception meal.

Page 61 : engaged :January 2009

Those Little Things Traditionally, formal invitations are also sent to your attendants and their partners (or parents for the little ones). If the bride’s parents are hosting the wedding, an invitation is sent to the groom’s parents, or if the couple is hosting the wedding, then formal invitations could go to both sets of parents as a record of the occasion.

It is also customary to invite the priest or minister and spouse to the reception.

When?

Generally invitations are sent out about two months before your wedding. However, if many of your quests are from overseas or you are being married during a holiday period, you may need to send them out earlier to inform guests of the date and to allow them to make accommodation plans. An alternative to this is to send a ‘save the date’ card, giving your friends and family know in advance of sending out their invitation.

Who? As you will see from our article on roles at weddings, it is traditional

for the bride’s mother to write, post and record replies to the wedding. She may be helped out by the bridesmaids or the bride herself. Both mothers may be called on to chase up any late replies.

What?

So apart from decisions on the theme of your wedding and how this can be reflected in your wedding stationary, you need to know what types of invitations are available. You have a few choices: • custom printed invitations from a printer including all details of the wedding, with space for the guests names; • pre-printed invitations from a stationery shop with spaces for the hosts’ and guests’ names, the name of the bride and groom, the venue (ceremony and reception) and the date and time; • customised invitations created on your PC including all details of the wedding, along with the guests names; • hand written invitations, which are a lovely personal touch for a small wedding, but if you’re having more than 25 guests the task might overwhelm you.

Whatever your choice, make sure you get a few extra invitations to allow for mistakes and to keep as momentos.

All You Need…

All invitations should include the date, time and place of the wedding, as per the examples shown.

Also helpful are suggestions for dress, including footwear (stilettos on the beach aren’t fun, unless you kick them off and go barefoot!); maps and directions on how to reach the venue, including your back-up location if it is raining; information about your wedding registry; details on accommodation options for out-of-town guests.

Postponement and Cancellation If your wedding has to be postponed or cancelled, you need to advise your guests as soon as possible. If time doesn’t allow a written card, then all the guests will have to be e-mailed or telephoned.

nes Mr & Mrs Paul Jo and ith Mr & Mrs Eric Sm asure of request the ple f the company o [ names of the

Catherine Jon es and John Smith request the ple asure of the company of

guests here ]

of their children at the marriage s Catherine Jone and John Smith rch at St Paul’s Chu Ellerslie 27 Short Street, 9 December 200 0 1 y a rd tu Sa n o at 4pm ption t a garden rece a s rd a rw e ft a d an ncing at followed by da tel The Excelsior Ho Ellerslie 29 Short Street,

[ names of the guests here ] at their marr iage at St Paul’s Ch urch 27 Short Stree t, Ellerslie on Saturday 10 December 200 9 at 4pm and afterwar ds at a garden reception followed by da ncing at The Excelsior Hotel 29 Short Stree t, Ellerslie

RSVP ad, Superbia Ro 33 City l.co.nz someone@mai 09 123 4567

RSVP 33 City Road, Superbia someone@mai l.co.nz 09 123 4567

Owing to the recent illness of Mrs Jones’ father, Catherine to the wedding of her daughter Mr John Smith e at at St Paul’s Church, Ellersli 9 at 4pm on Saturday 10 December 200 will not now take place. vately The marriage will be held pri at a date to be arranged.

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Mr & Mrs Paul Jones and Mr & Mrs Eric Smith request the pleasure of the company of

Catherine Jone s and John Smith

[ names of the guests here ]

request the ple asure of the company o f

at a dance to be held at The Excelsior Hotel 29 Short Street, Ellerslie on Saturday 10 December 2009 at 8pm to celebrate the marriage of their children Catherine Jones and John Smith

[ names of the

at a garden rece ption to be held at The Excelsior Ho tel 29 Short Street, Ellerslie on Saturday 10 December 2009 at 8pm to celebrate th eir marriage

RSVP 33 City Road, Su perbia someone@mai l.co.nz 09 123 4567

RSVP 33 City Road, Superbia someone@mail.co.nz 09 123 4567

...................................................

(space for guests to write their names)

accept with pleasure decline with regret your kind invitation for Saturday 10 December 2009 Number of guests ..........

guests here ]

ness of e recent ill Owing to th father, Mrs Jones’ ughter g of her da in d d e w e th Smith to Mr John Catherine h, Ellerslie ul’s Churc at at St Pa mber 2009 y 10 Dece on Saturda at 4pm until postponed has been .

010 at 4pm February 2 0 1 y a rd Satu

Page 65 : engaged : August 2008

Wedding Part y Roles....

Engaged’s Guide to Who Does What at a Wedding

W

ith a number of people being involved in the planning of any wedding, it is important at the outset to determine what everyone’s role is. This way, everybody will know what is expected of them and where their responsibilities lie and, with any luck, the wedding will run like clockwork.

Over the next few pages, we have outlined the traditional roles of each of the participants in a wedding (although we have omitted the Bride and Groom as their roles are pretty obvious!). These roles are by no means set in stone as each wedding will be different. When determining each person’s responsibilites, we advise following these simple guidelines: Play to people’s strengths: If a family member has certain talents, assign them a task that utilises those abilities even if it is not traditionally their role (for example, if your mother-in-law used to be a florist, then let her assist with the flower selection).

Provide people with jobs even if you don’t need help: Many parents dream of helping organise to their child’s wedding. Even if you want to do all of the planning yourself, we advise assigning a role to parents. This will give them something to focus on and will make them feel part of the wedding. This may sound a bit crazy, but by doing this you are less likely to end up with tension from a family member feeling left out of the wedding.

Communicate: Things are far more likely to go smoothly if everyone is completely clear on what is expected of them and why you chose them to do (or not to do) something.

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Father of the Bride • Support. Keep your little girl calm on the day.

• Drive. Accompany the bride to the ceremony venue in the wedding car.

• Give away. Walk your daughter down the aisle and hand her to the waiting Groom. Don’t forget to lift her veil and give her that symbolic goodbye kiss!

• Dance. After the Bride and Groom have their first dance, you should be the next person to dance with the new wife.

• Speak. The father of the Bride traditionally speaks at the reception. You should thank everyone for coming and welcome the Groom into your family.

• Host. During the reception make sure the guests are enjoying themselves.

Father of the Groom • Budget. Talk to your son and future daughter-in-law about whether you intend to help them out with the wedding costs.

• Host. Help your wife host the rehearsal dinner.

• Support. Be there for moral support at all times.

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Mother of the Bride (MOB) • Shop! You should help the bride find her perfect wedding dress and accessories. Be fair and honest in your opinion, remembering your daughter’s own sense of style and personality, rather than what you would wear if it was you getting married again!

• More shopping! Choose your mother-of-the-bride dress, trying to coordinate with the colours the Bride has chosen for the Bridesmaids’ dresses. Let the mother-of-the-groom know as soon as possible, so that she can pick an outfit that complements yours.

• Budget. Okay, it’s not as fun as shopping but it is always good for everyone to have a clear picture of what you and your husband are willing to pay for.

• Invites. Let your daughter and future son-in-law know who you would like at the wedding. Help your daughter address and send the invites, and if necessary, chase up anyone who hasn’t RSVP’d by the due date.

• Search. Help look for wedding and reception locations, particularly if the wedding is taking place in your home town. If need be, reserve accommodation for out-of-town guests.

• Socialise. If you haven’t already met the Groom’s parents, arrange to meet them. Attend the wedding shower and rehearsal dinner.

• Shop again. Unfortunately this time it’s not about you shopping. Help other guests by spreading the word about where the couple have their gift registry.

• Host. Act as hostess at the wedding and reception, making sure guests are comfortable. This also includes standing in the receiving line, sitting at the parents’ table, and making sure the Bride has greeted all her guests.

• Help. Assist your daughter will any other details she asks you to!

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Mother of the Groom • Host. Arrange and host the rehearsal dinner for the Bride and Groom, attendants, mother and father of the bride, and you and your husband. It is also nice to invite any out of town guests.

• Invite. Draw up the guest list for the Groom’s side after finding out how many guests you are allowed to invite. Call any of your guests who are late in RSVPing.

• Socialise. Attend the bridal shower, and bring a gift.

• Dance. Dance with your son at the wedding.

• Help. Offer to assist anyway you can: help research wedding venues if you live in the same town; help with decorations, invitations, flowers or anything that needs extra hands; provide assistance with seating charts, letting the MOB know who on your side of the guest list should (or shouldn’t!) sit with who.

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Maid or Matron of Honour (MOH) • Shop. You get to go dress and accessory shopping with the Bride-to-be.

Give her your honest opinion (in the nicest possible way!).

• Party. Organise and act as hostess for the hens’ night.

• Invite. Help the Bride to write out and address invitations, place cards and any other handwritten stationary.

• Pamper. Accompany the Bride to her hair and make-up trials.

• Dress. Help the Bride to dress before the wedding. Make sure the dress and veil are sitting correctly throughout the ceremony and reception.

• Walk. Walk down the aisle before the bride. Sometimes the MOH goes first, sometimes just before the bride, so check with your bride about what she wants. Follow the Bride and Groom down the aisle after the ceremony, on the arm of the Best Man. • Lend a hand. Hold the Bride’s flowers during the ceremony, for example, during the exchange of rings. You may need to pass your bouquet to the other Bridesmaid whilst you hold the Bride’s flowers.

• Witness. Sign the wedding certificate.

• Dance. Dance with the Best Man at the wedding reception.

• Socialise. Be sure to talk to as many guests as you can, making them feel warmly welcomed.

• Speak. If you’re up to it, give a speech during the reception and remind the Bride why you’re besties!

• Help. Offer to help the Bride with researching locations, florists, caterers and any other little thing she may need doing. Advise on decorations, favours, flowers, music and so on – but only when asked!

• Be a best friend. Offer your friend all the moral support you can muster.

Remind her that you are there to support her in any way and keep her calm.

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Bridesmaids • Party. Make sure you attend the hens’ night! Help the MOH organise it.

• Walk. Walk down the aisle before the Bride. After the ceremony, you should follow the Bride and Groom back down the aisle, on the arm of your corresponding Groomsmen.

• Dance. Dance with the Groomsmen after the Bride and Groom have had their first dance.

• Host. Mingle with the wedding guests, making sure they are having a good time.

Flowergirl • Walk. The Flower Girl will usually walk down the aisle first, either carrying a basket of flowers during the processional or scattering petals on the ground as she walks down the aisle.

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Best Man • Organise. Plan and execute the bucks’ night. Don’t lead the Groom too far astray!

• Dress. Help the Groom with his suit before the wedding, making sure it is sitting correctly.

• Drive. Be responsible for getting the Groom to the ceremony and to any other wedding-related event.

• Stand by. Wait next to the Groom and other Groomsmen at the front of the ceremony venue as the Bride and Bridesmaids walk down the aisle.

• Hold. Look after the rings until they are ready to be exchanged. Don’t forget to bring them to the ceremony!

• Witness. Sign the wedding certificate at the ceremony.

• Speak. Toast the Bride and Groom during the reception. For tips on your speech, see the advice column in this issue.

• Dance. Dance with the MOH after the couple have had their first dance.

• Socialise. Make sure the guests are having a good time.

• Return. Make sure the suits are returned to the rental store after the ceremony.

• Transport. Make sure the Bride and Groom have transport to their hotel, the airport, or their honeymoon destination.

Page Boy or Ring Bearer • Carry. The Page Boy walks down the aisle with, just before, or just after the Flower Girl, carrying the rings on a pillow.

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Groomsmen • Party. Try not to play up too much at the bucks’ night! Help the Best Man plan the party.

• Escort. Seat wedding guests if there are no ushers.

• Wait. Wait at the front of the church with the Groom as the Bride and her attendants walk down the aisle.

• Walk. Follow the Bride and Groom down the aisle after the ceremony, with your corresponding Bridesmaid on your arm.

• Dance. Dance with the Bridesmaids.

• Socialise. Mingle with the wedding guests after the ceremony and at the reception, making sure everyone is comfortable.

Page 73 : engaged : January 2009

Air for the “G” String - Philharmonic Orchestra Angel Eyes - Jim Brickman Truly/ Lionel Richie Arioso - Bach As Time Goes By (A Kiss is Just a Kiss) - Tony Bennett Ave Maria - Schubert/Gounod Bach’s Arioso - Canadian Brass Quintet Beauty and the Beast - Celine Dion/Peabo Bryson

Your votes are in for the best wedding songs!

It seems that you are a traditional lot – songs that didn’t date featured well. You are also very romantic, with many of you choosing songs that mean something to you as a couple.

Prelude: Brandenburg Concerto #2 – Bach Can You Feel the Love Tonight - Elton John

Mozart’s Elvira Madigan - Flute with Guitar My Heart Will Go On - Celine Dion

Clair De Lune - Flute with Harp

Ode to Joy - Beethoven

Everything I Do - Bryan Adams

On Wings of Song - Nancy Enslin (harp)

Gloria - Vivaldi

Rhapsody in Blue - Gershwin

God Only Knows - The Beach Boys

The Four Seasons - Vivaldi

Greensleeves - Traditional

Unchained Melody - Righteous Brothers

Here and Now - Luther Vandross

Vangelis Hymne - Nancy Enslin (harp)

Isn’t it Romantic - Glenn Miller

Water Music - Handel

Moonlight Sonata - Beethoven

Wedding Party Entrance: Air for The “G” String - Philharmonic Orchestra Bach, Jesu Joy of Man’s Desiring Brass Quintet Better Together – Jack Johnson Bridal Chorus (Here Comes the Bride) from “Lohengrin” - Wagner

Forever in Love - Kenny G Forrest Gump Suite – Alan Silverstri Havana - Kenny G I Can’t Help Falling in Love - Elvis Presley If You Believe - Jim Brickman

Canon in D - Pachelbel

In My Life - The Beatles

Caribbean Blue - Enya

Kissing You - Desiree

Chapel of Love - Dixie Cups

Lord’s Prayer - Harp w/Soprano

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November Rain (instrumental) – Guns ‘n’ Roses O’ Perfect Love - Nancy Enslin (harp) Oh Pretty Woman - Roy Orbison Only Time - Enya

There is Love - Paul Stookey Time for Us “Romeo and Juliet Theme” - Harp Trumpet Voluntary in D (The Prince of Denmark’s March) - Clarke or Purcell Unforgettable - Nat King Cole

Shepherd Moon - Enya

Water Music - Handel

Songbird – Eva Cassidy Start Back at One – Bryan McKnight The Four Seasons - Handel

What a Wonderful World - Louis Armstrong When a Man Loves a Woman - Percy Sledge

The Wedding Song - Kenny G

Recessional: At Last - Etta James Celebration - Kool & the Gang Hallelujah Chorus (from “The Messiah”) - Handel Handel “Water Music” - Hornpipe Handel Water Music Allegro Canadian Brass

Ode to Joy (from The Ninth Symphony) - Beethoven The Long and Winding Road - The Beatles Then He Kissed Me - The Crystals Trumpet Tune - Purcell Wedding March (from “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”) - Mendelssohn

How Sweet It Is - James Taylor I Got You (I Feel Good) - James Brown

We’ve Only Just Begun - Carpenters

I Got You Babe - Sonny and Cher

You Had Me from Hello - Kenny Chesney

Magnificent in D - Bach

Your Song - Elton John

Mouret Rondeau - Canadian Brass

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A Whole New World - Peabo Bryson and Regina Belle

Endless Love - Diana Ross and Lionel Richie

A Whole New World - Peabo Bryson and Regina Bell

Everything I Do (I Do for You) - Bryan Adams

All My Life - Linda Ronstadt and Aaron Faithfully - Journey Neville Forever and Ever, Amen - Randy Travis Amazed – Lonestar Amazing – Alex Lloyd

Forever’s as Far as I’ll Go - Alabama

As Time Goes By (A Kiss is Just a Kiss) Michael Feinstein

From this Moment on - Shania Twain

At Last - Etta James Beauty and the Beast - Celine Dion/ Peabo Bryson

Grow Old with Me - Mary Chapin Carpenter Here and Now - Luther Vandross

Can I Have this Dance? - Ann Murray

I Can Love You Like That - John M. Montgomery

Can’t Help Falling in Love - Elvis Presley

I Could Not Ask For More - Edwin McCain

Don’t Know Much - Linda Ronstadt and Aaron Neville

I Cross My Heart - George Strait I Swear - John M. Montgomery or All 4

Page 78 : engaged : January 2009

First Dance:

Tonight I Celebrate My Love - Roberta Flack and Peabo Bryson

One I’ll be There - Mariah Carey It Had To Be You - Harry Connick, Jr. It’s Your Love - Tim McGraw/Faith Hill

True Companion - Marc Cohn Truly - Lionel Richie

Love Me Tender - Elvis Presley

Unchained Melody - The Righteous Brothers

Love of My Life - Jim Brickman/ Michael W. Smith

Unforgettable - Nat King Cole

Man and Wife – Michelle Featherstone

What a Wonderful World - Louis Armstrong When a Man Loves a Woman - Percy Sledge or Michael Bolton

My Best Friend - Tim McGraw No Ordinary Love - Sade On Bended Knee - Boyz II Men Our Love is Here to Stay - Harry Connick, Jr.

When I Fall In Love - Celine Dion/Clive Griffin When You Say Nothing at All - Allison Krauss Wonderful Tonight - Eric Clapton

Power of Love - Celine Dion The Way You Look Tonight - Frank Sinatra

Page 79 : engaged : January 2009

ESCAPE and prepare for the best day of your life— At ESCAPE we understand how important it is to look and feel your best on this very special day and that is why all our bridal packages have been structured with this in mind.

ESCAPE has combined the absolute latest and advanced technologies in skin treatment systems to get your skin glowing with radiance softness and even tones.

The essential grooming services such as waxing, manicures, pedicures, eyebrow shaping and tinting are all the essential must haves for a bride to be to make you feel confident and fresh on your big day.

Planning a wedding can be stressful—everything needs to be PERFECT !!

Why not relax, de-stress and unwind with your bridal “team” and pamper yourselves in our function room. Let us serve you champagne, lunch & nibbles whilst our dedicated therapists whisk you away for your treatments.

To ensure you all leave feeling great and looking fabulous everyone in the bridal party will receive a complimentary makeover with the world’s Number 1 Mineral Makeup of the Stars. A good chance for you to get a feel of it before the BIG DAY. We also offer a mobile makeup artist service to make getting ready that little bit easier and fun.

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Page 80 : engaged : August 2008

Real Brides

How better to celebrate the beauty of weddings than with some amazing photos from our readers’ weddings.

Pure inspiration...

Kirsten & Michael Carson 27 July 2008 | At home | Photographer: Helen Tatham Dress: Brides Corner, Manukau | Shoes: Number 1 Shoe Warehouse | Hai r: Katrina van der Star Makeup: Adelle Reid | Florist: Waiuku Village Flowers

Page 81 : engaged : August 2008

Kerryn & Samuel Chaplin 29 March 2008 Osborne Mandeno Gardens, Waiau Pa Photographer: Celeste Chaplin Photography Dress: Jenny’s Bridal Newmarket Shoes: Trousseau Bridal Hair: Hayley, DIOSAhair, Pukekohe Makeup: Joy, Glamourzone, Pukekohe Florist: The Blossom Room, Pukekohe Suit: Frank Casey Suit Hire

Page 82 : engaged : August 2008

Lauren & Malcolm Moore 3 February 2008 Elizabeth House Photographer: Donna Dohi Dress: Robyn Cliffe Shoes: Shoebuy, America Hair: Tracey (a family friend) Makeup: Callie Sandford Florist: Shirley from Merivale Page 83 : engaged : August 2008 House of Flowers

Rita & Clint Slogrove 8 August 2008 Muri Beach, Rarotonga Photographer: Junior from Hinoi Henry Photos Dress: Kate Dowman (pre-loved) Shoes: White Havaiana Jandals Hair & Makeup: Nane Brown, Hairworks Rarotonga Florist: Arranged by Pacific Resort Rarotonga Suit: Polynesia by Design - RaroShirt and Dickies Shorts

Page 84 : engaged : August 2008

Annette & Bryce 21 September 2008 Wedding Chapel, Laguna Beach Resort, Phuket Photographer, Hair and Florist: Provided by Laguna Beach Resort Dress: Wellington, Shoes: Charles andPage Keith, 85 : Makeup: engagedmyself, : August Suit: 2008 Tailored in Phuket

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The Big Y

MC

ou’ve been asked to be the Master of Ceremonies (MC) at a wedding?

Perhaps you’re the Bride or the Groom and you want to offer your chosen MC some guidelines and assistance. Either way, this article is written to give you an insight into the substantial and pivotal role of the wedding MC.

S

ometimes the choice of MC can be difficult as you may be concerned that the uncle whom you were originally considering might not have everything sufficiently organised, or that your fiancé’s brother (or sister) might get a little tipsy and say inappropriate things.

T

he MC’s role starts with preparation and consultation. The MC needs to know everything about your reception, your wedding vendors and your timeline, and have it clearly scheduled in a runsheet. At the reception, the MC starts by welcoming guests to the venue and giving them the ‘housekeeping’ rules such as where to smoke, when to turn cell phones onto silent, the emergency evacuation instructions, safety messages (such as ‘mind the step by the restrooms’) and importantly, what time the bar closes and they all need to leave.

Page 87 : engaged : August 2008

dance studio Let your first few steps together be in perfect harmony

T

he Master of Ceremonies not only introduces the people making speeches, but coordinates and liaises with the videographer, caterer, waiting staff and serving staff. They introduce the person offering grace or the blessing and then sometimes direct the guests to the buffet, table by table. They should make sure that the guests and other wedding professionals know what is coming up next and help everyone relax and enjoy the celebration. The challenge is to not give out too much instruction and information at any given time - just the next few elements to the reception is sufficient.

T

Fully choreographed As simple or as stunning as you like.

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he Bride and Groom, the wedding party and the parents shouldn’t have to worry about timelines, order of proceedings or delegation of jobs on the day. They should feel relaxed knowing that their MC has things well under control. Some of the things which follow may be taken care of by your venue, but if the venue is a dry-hire where you supply everything, consider the items listed opposite, which are a few examples of important things for your MC to do.

T

here’s no need to panic over the MC role. This article was written to help you plan in advance to avoid any panic or issues on the day.

The MC is the glue that holds the celebration together. It’s a pivotal

role and one that carries responsibility, • Expect that some things will change but with a little preparation, you’ll be on the night. Be prepared for this. able to shine and help the occasion (and the hosts of the celebration) look • Introduce yourself to the event professionals, such as the spectacular. Here’s the brief guide to entertainers, banquet captain/ being a great Master of Ceremonies Maître D, photographer and at a wedding: celebrant.

• Prepare! Put together a detailed runsheet in advance. Make copies • Appear calm and unflustered, even if you’re having a mild panic! and give a copy to anyone who may have use for it, such as the caterer, the photographer, the • Introduce yourself, welcome them to the venue and thank the guests videographer. for their attention.

• Put your notes and runsheet in bullet points and keep them brief. Put • Announce and introduce the wedding party and newlyweds the runsheet in double line space into the room with style, flair and format so you’ve got room to add enthusiasm, but in a manner suiting things as the proceedings alter and evolve.

• Research and become familiar with wedding protocol as well as applicable cultural and social etiquette.

Some weddings will be very formal, some incredibly informal. Know in advance what style is suitable and aim slightly higher than the expected standard of professionalism and formality.

• Do your best to memorise the names of the important people in advance, so you don’t have to read off your notes all night. Some of the best MCs make it look so easy and unrehearsed, but in reality they rehearsed every detail.

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•

•

•

•

•

• •

your personalities. This sets the tone • Know in advance who the speakers for the reception to follow. are, what they look like, what their relationship is to the couple and Acknowledge and introduce the where they are sitting. members of the head table and identify where they fit into the Bride • Mock the Groom (without causing embarrassment to his family or other & Groom’s lives. Do the same with VIPs) by all means, but the Bride is the parents. sacred!

Get the dinner plates cleared away well before the speeches start so • Never use humour that could offend your grandparents! the waiting staff and noise aren’t a distraction. Also ensure that the staff aren’t chatting or working during • Keep it brief: it’s not the MCs role to deliver a speech. the speeches where they can be seen or heard.

• Be sincere and humble.

Make sure the toast glasses are primed and ready before the • When speaking, ensure you can be easily seen by all guests, apologising speeches start and that the entire in advance to any who are behind bridal party is seated. you or cannot easily see you. Then Before announcing speeches, apologise profusely to those who ensure that all of the important can see you! people are in the room.

• Give everyone involved a Remind people to turn their cell few minutes warning before phones to silent or off. Guests with announcing the next item coming babysitters probably won’t want up. They may wish to make a them off altogether. quick visit to the restroom before the commencement of speeches.

Before making any announcements, There’s nothing worse than being get the crowd’s attention first. uncomfortable when it can be avoided.

Smile. All night, not just when you’re • Brief each of the event professionals speaking. before making announcements to make sure they are prepared and Page 90 : engaged : January 2009

ready for their role in the next formality. An example is that if the videographer isn’t warned that you’re about to stand up and talk, they might miss important announcements and introductions through no fault of their own, or the entertainers may not be ready to play the cake-cutting song.

• Announce any family gathering (like a barbeque at Mum and Dad’s) that may be on the next day. This is very often forgotten.

Likewise the guest register, which you may even need to start making its way around the tables.

• Be prepared to offer any thanks or make any toasts that you see have been missed, such as toasting the parents, or thanking (on behalf of the couple) for the wonderful gifts.

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• Be aware of the timeline and keep things moving along at a reasonable pace, but don’t make it too hurried. Part of your job is to make sure everything runs to time.

• If your eyesight isn’t brilliant, ensure you have your reading glasses with you and pick a well-lit

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spot close to the head table so you’re at the focal point of the room and you can see your notes clearly. Suggest (in advance) the same advice to other speakers on the night.

• Do not drink alcohol before you’re finished with your duties. It won’t make you funnier, better looking, wittier or taller. Water (not too cold) is better for your vocal chords and will help you sound much more natural, mellifluous and relaxed.

T

he MC should be in total control of the evening, but not obviously so. They are a facilitator, directing the flow, but not making the event about them. The stars of the night are the happy couple, their families and their wedding party.

A

bove all, your MC needs to be able to change and be flexible if things don’t go according to the script. Being a wedding Master of Ceremonies is a great honour and privilege and can be very rewarding.

About the author These days more upmarket wedding DJs are beginning to offer professional MC services and many celebrities are also able to be hired to serve in this role.

One such professional is Richard Mills, the author of this article.

Richard is a full-time professional wedding DJ based in Wellington. He is a graduate of the American ‘Marbecca Method Advanced Master of Ceremonies Workshop’ and has been a professional MC since 2002, performing at dozens of weddings, corporate events and other celebrations.

He features in Tom Haibeck’s book ‘Wedding Toasts Made Easy’ and is an organised, polished, eloquent and humorous speaker. Richard Mills is available to act as your professional Master of Ceremonies, with or without his DJ services and virtually anywhere in the world.

Page 92 : engaged : January 2009

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Page 93 : engaged : January 2009

B ride Diary Kylie & Hooksy Kylie and Hooksy met 18,000kms from home on a hot summers day in London at the NZ Food & Wine Festival (complete with their favourite NZ culinary delights background). Six years and the sounds of Dave Dobbyn in the back home, buying a dog later, after much travelling, moving pped the big question on and a house together, Hooksy po riwai. Kylie is a marketing their favourite west coast beach, Mu and Hoosky has his own manager with Goodman Fielder business as a builder. many wedding magazines “In all of the pictures I’d seen in the sses I was drawn to were I had inherited from friends the dre for my consultation there all from Jane Yeh. So when I went to start. With my mum, I really did think it was the best place ire and Bee with me, we my sister Davina, and bridesmaids Cla dresses for the first time in went to Jane Yeh to try on wedding prehensive that none of my life. I have to say I was really ap d I just didn’t know what the dresses were going to suit me an to expect.

Page 94 : engaged : August 2008

and within no time we Thankfully the team there are lovely d told myself before I found a few that looked good. I ha sure I stuck to it!) that went (and told Hooksy just to make a dress that day. It I wasn’t going to come home with and it really gave me was really hard to stick to it but I did too much to spend time to think. I think $4,000 plus is just e day. I agree you on a dress you will only wear for on lot of dive gear or a have to feel amazing but $4,000 is a car, so I just couldn’t new mountain bike or even a small warrant it. t all the dresses you One thing that I didn’t realise was tha se I guess, but I found try on are sized 12+, which makes sen me. The dresses had that everything I put on swam on in there it really does to be held back there and tucked little harder. make finding “the perfect dress” a ommendation from About a month later, based on a rec icity’s in the city. The friend, the troops and I went to Fel free for a consultation great thing about Felicity’s is that it’s st! Not only do they and their consultations are the be t on they pin back so listen to you, but every dress you pu a great dress... it was you get a better idea on fit. I found ed but the moment nice and I don’t know what happen I would buy it’. No overcame me and I decided ‘yep, I promptly paid the more looking, it was a nice dress. done’. deposit and thought ‘good, that’s

Page 95 : engaged : August 2008

B ride Diary was getting ready to Later that afternoon, while Hooksy ng. I couldn’t help it, go out, he asked me what was wro t I didn’t think I liked I burst into tears and declared tha surprise, he did one of the dress I bought anymore. To my said, “well that’s not the best things he’s ever done and ant thing on the day, good, the dress is the most import ’re not happy with it, the most important to get right. If you be happy”. A weight then stuff the deposit, you’ve got to absolute gem of a was lifted off my shoulders. What an So if it wasn’t the right man! I should marry him, I thought! look like? Definitely dress, then what did the right dress not just nice, I thought. en was from my sister.

The best piece of advice I was giv t describe how you She said come up with five words tha p these words in mind want to feel on the day. If you kee lp you find your dress. when you try on all dresses it will he w, excited, stunning, So I did just that, the words were; wo out the other dress sexy and dramatic. This totally threw w one. but set me on a clear path for the ne tes to narrow it down I looked through screeds of websi ge. I then found an to two dresses from the Essense ran an appointment. The Auckland supplier and booked in e”: it passed the word first dress I tried on there was “the on

Page 96 : engaged : August 2008

well! Again it was a size test and I felt so comfortable in it as matter - you just knew it 12 and I needed a size 7 but it didn’t excited and elated and was going to look amazing! I felt so ond chance of finding a I just knew that being given this sec dress had been the best thing ever!

Felicity’s gave me my And best of all the lovely people at notify them on Monday deposit back because I was able to dress so they weren’t that I didn’t want them to order the 0 for the consultation out of pocket. But I gave them $10 the best place to start for being so good; they really are looking. lly hard about how you So my advice to you is to think rea ople come out with a want to feel in your dress. Most pe gined for one reason or totally different dress than they ima that you feel amazing. I another but the important thing is right size and I know I can’t wait for my dress to arrive in the will fall in love all over again!”

Page 97 : engaged : August 2008

Someone told me we should organise our wedding venue first and then choose the date. I always thought it should be the other way around. Who is right?

Wedding venues are very popular and quite often you will find that the venue you love will not be available on the day you wish to marry on. Have a general idea of the month that you want to get married in and then start looking for venues. Once you find that perfect place (or perfect places – one for the ceremony and the other for the reception), choose a specific date. Of course, this may not work if you and your beloved want to get married on a certain date, like Valentine’s Day or the anniversary of when you met!

Where should my Bridesmaid’s husband sit? He is not in the bridal party.

You should seat him with the other guests. It is not usual to sit the spouses of the Groommen or Bridesmaids at the head table.

Can we have pre-printed thank you cards?

If you read the previous issues of Engaged, you would have seen that printed invitations are a total no-no.

Same goes for pre-printed thank you notes. These should be handwritten

Need Advice? and, if possible, personalised by referring to the gift and how much you will enjoy it.

Should we provide a meal for the photographer?

Check what the contract with your photographer says as it may be a requirement that you feed him or her.

Otherwise, it is good manners to provide some sort of refreshment (sandwiches etc). Don’t feel that you have to invite your photographer for the sit-down meal.

Page 98 : engaged : January 2009

I have been asked to be the Best Man at the wedding. I’m a bit nervous (read terrified!) about public speaking. Are there any tips you can give me about my speech?

OK, the basic rules need to be followed: no off-colour jokes, no mention of ex-girlfriends (or sex), don’t drink too much beforehand and keep it reasonably short (five minutes maximum)! Traditionally the Best Man should thank the Groom for the toast he made to the Bridesmaids and generally add a few complimentary remarks of his own, thank anyone who has helped him do his job (ie the other Groomsmen, anyone who has helped organise the bucks’ night etc), offer congratulations to the Bride and groom, read any telegrams or emails, and outline the program for the rest of tGe night. And as for general speech-making hints… give yourself plenty of time to write and rehearse your speech, write it down on small cards to provide you with prompts, stand still, resist the urge to jangle any change or keys in your pockets, speak slowly and clearly, pause after any jokes or toasts in order to give the guests a chance to respond, look at the audience if you can… and don’t forget to breathe!!

A

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Centrepiece Hire & Design Table Linen & Chair Covers Guest Stationery & Favours DIY Hire or Full Design & Set Up

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Page 99 : engaged :January 2009

Competitions & Giveaways We have one hair care pack to give away courtesy of La’Bella Hair Design, Orewa, ph 09 426 9963. The pack contains a De Lorenzo Control Shampoo, Control Intense Conditioner and an Infinite Leave In Detangler. RRP $40.

With the summer wedding season upon us, it’s time to start thinking about putting your best foot forward on your big day.

To remove rough skin, leaving your feet soft and more gorgeous, use Scholl’s Dual Action Foot File with Scholl Rough Skin Remover, and complete your “feet treat” with Scholl Deep Moisturising Cream. To treat toe nail discolouration, get your toenails looking perfect with Scholl Perfect Nails.

To save your feet on the big day, Scholl has launched new Party Feet Invisible Gel Toe Post Strips so you can wear your gorgeous sandals all day and night and be pain-free.

Scholl Party Feet Invisible Gel Toe Post Strips protect and cushion the tender area between the toes, and provide immediate relief from the toe posts rubbing.

We have two Scholl packs to give away including Scholl Dual Action Foot File, Rough Skin Remover and Deep Moisturising Cream. Each pack also includes the new Scholl Party Feet Invisible Gel Toe Post Strips and Party Feet Gel Inserts so you can stay comfortable in your gorgeous shoes all day and night! Each pack is worth almost $100 each.

Page 100 : engaged : January 2009

Here’s your chance to look like a super model!

Airbrushed Angels has ever so kindly agreed to supply us with a free airbrushed makeup trial for one of our very lucky readers!

Airbrushed makeup is a cosmetic breakthrough. Tiny microdots of colour are gently sprayed on the skin to give a beautiful flawless finish. Needing little or no retouching throughout the day, airbrushed make-up gives the appearance of radiant, beautiful skin instead of a ‘made-up’ look. This spray-on style of make-up is hypo-allergenic, gives complete coverage, lasts up to 12 hours and gives fantastic results that can’t be as readily achieved with conventional make-up. Ideal for brides of all ages and skin types wanting a long-lasting natural look and photos they will always be proud of. For a full run-down of what airbrushed makeup is, please see our December issue or www.airbrushedangels.co.nz.

Please note that the time and date of the makeup trial is to be at Airbrushed Angel’s discretion, dependent on their existing bookings.

Glamorpuss Cosmetics want you to have the chance to try the fabulous new blinc mascara. blinc’s unique formula is rubber-based and once applied, the tubes which it forms around the lashes cannot run, smudge, clump or fake.

We have two of these to give away in your choice of black, dark brown or medium brown. RRP$49.00.

See our ‘What’s New’ section for details and make sure you are in to win! www.glamorpusscosmetics.co.nz

Page 101 : engaged :January 2009

The fabulous team at evolu has again supplied us with some wonderful giveaways! This month you can win one of twelve 30ml Rosehip Oils. This 100% pure certified organic oil is naturally rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, potent lipid-boosters that work at a cellular level to help promote cell regeneration and minimise moisture loss. Skin is rehydrated and softened and skin tone is rebalanced, restoring natural radiance and elasticity. The fine quality of the oil ensures it is readily absorbed and non-greasy, and its gentle action is suitable for face or body, mother and baby. www.evolu.co.nz

WINNERS! Well, you’re all winners really, but here’s who won the competitions from the December issue of Engaged!

Hair Care Pack Annette Tan Photomaxing Prize Pack Kirsty MacDonald $150 Beads Glorious Beads Gift Voucher Nichola Gilchrist

How to Enter To be in the draw for these great prizes is easy! We will be drawing the prizes on 28 January 2009 and everyone who is subscribed to receive our email newsletter at the time is automatically in the draw...

If you are already signed up, you don’t need to do anything - you are in the draw! If you haven’t signed up yet, go to www.engaged. co.nz and enter your name and email address to receive our email newsletter - it’s as simple as that!

Page 102 : engaged : January 2009

WEDDINGS

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Everything you need to plan your perfect wedding Page 103 : engaged :January 2009

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Page 104 : engaged : January 2009