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...your wonderful wedding on the cliff tops Just 50 minutes from Auckland’s CBD you’ll find magical Castaways. Castaways provides the ultimate wedding experience you and your guests will rave about for years to come. • Coastal cliff top ceremonies • Stunning sunset wedding receptions • Fabulous food • Award winning service • Guest accommodation • Honeymoon packages • Onsite activities Click here to download our new >online weddings pack<
Our team are available to meet with you onsite at Castaways. So contact us now and let’s start designing your wonderful wedding!
Castaways Karioitahi Beach, Waiuku, Auckland Ph 09 236 5161 Email weddings@castaways.co.nz Web www.castaways.co.nz * Specials Season at Castaways * April to November is Specials Season at Castaways. No minimum spends and no minimum numbers are required. Simply your wedding, your way.
“We want to thank you again for our absolutely amazing wedding. Some guests said it was the best wedding they’ve ever been to!” (Castaways Bride & Groom, 2011)
~ unique ~
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~ affordable ~
Notes from the Editors...
Cover Credits:
Photo: Matt Hunt Photography www.matthuntphotography.co.nz Couple: Dave and Natalie
Advertising Enquiries: Contact: Tim Hamilton Email: info@engaged.co.nz Phone: 021 448817 Post: PO Box 137101, Parnell Auckland 1151 Hamilton Media Limited accepts no responsibility for material provided by readers or advertisers. All material supplied is assumed to have been provided with the consent of the appropriate copyright holders Engaged is subject to copyright in its entirety. All rights reserved in material accepted for publication unless initially specified otherwise.
Hopefully, you are all enjoying the warmer weather that is finally upon us. As I am sure it has been for a lot of you, January is always a funny month at Weddings.co.nz. With the long weekends and the Christmas break, it seems like the year has only just started and all of a sudden it is already February! This raises a good point for those of you planning your big day. Make sure that you get as much planning as you can done nice and early. It is amazing how quickly the year can go by and there is no point leaving things up to the last minute and stressing out. We have a shorter issue this month (although we are on target for a whopper next month!). We have a beautiful spread of real wedding photos from Matt Hunt Photography, as well as some beautiful Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inspirations. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to check out our Chinese New Year article as well! Happy planning!
Tim (& Gabrielle)
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CHINESE NEW YEAR
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You’re exactly my type Valentine’s Day card Maybe it’s because we like design and typography, but we love this card, both its message and the simplicity of it. USD$4 http://www.etsy.com/listing/66830667/valentine-card-i-love-you-card-youre
Custom Monogram I Cufflinks with Real Vinta Typewriter Text
Great for a Valentine’s Day gift beloved or for the Groom/Gro at the wedding, these cufflinks a suave. GBP$18.50
http://www.etsy.com/listing/9078583 monogram-initials-cufflinks-with
Initials intage
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Inspiration
This month, we thought we would do a Valentine’s Day slant on our inspiration page. So, while these aren’t strictly wedding related, we love them anyway! Enjoy!
Printable Treat Tags Whether you are using them for wedding favours or a Valentine’s Day gift, these treat tags are really cute! USD$2 http://www.etsy.com/listing/91173215/printable-valentine-treattags
WIN! CONGRATULATIONS! Congratulations to Chantelle Scott who has won the amazing limited edition flutes created by Lukeke Design, together with a bottle of Deutz Marlborough Prestige CuvĂŠe!
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WIN NEW OLAY TOTAL EFFECTS SENSITIVE! Olay Total Effects Sensitive – For Skin That Needs The Softest Touch Fed up with having to choose between sensitive skin and anti-ageing products? Introducing new Olay Total Effects Sensitive – the answer to skin that needs the softest touch. New Olay Total Effects Sensitive, from Procter & Gamble, the company behind some of New Zealand’s most well-known brands, is a revolutionary all-in-one product, specifically designed for sensitive skin to help fight the 7 signs of ageing, giving your skin all the benefits of the proven anti-ageing expertise of Olay Total Effects in a sensitive formula. New Olay Total Effects Sensitive combines powerful anti-ageing vitamins with natural White Tea to help rebuild the skin’s moisture barrier for stronger, younger looking skin. New Olay Total Effects Sensitive (RRP $33.72) and Olay Total Effects Sensitive SPF15 (RRP $33.72) are available from supermarkets, variety stores and pharmacies nationwide. We have three of the new Olay Total Effects Sensitive to give away. Go here to enter!
CONGRATULATIONS! Congratulations to the following who have each won a double pass to “Unveiled - 200 years of wedding fashion” exhibition at Te Papa! Sarah Dunn Lesley Mayne Running from 17 December to 22 April 2012, Unveiled lets you experience the evocative world of weddings through this extraordinary collection of wedding attire from the 19th century to today. See outfits inspired by tradition, practicality, fashion, fantasy – and, of course, love. Highlights include celebrity gowns by stellar international designers such as Norman Hartnell, Vivienne Westwood, and Christian Lacroix. Also on show are special commissions by New Zealand designers WORLD, Lindah Lepou, and Jane Yeh.
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This month, we a pleased to feature a collection of photos from Matt Hunt Photography. Whilst a relative newcomer to the wedding scene, Matt has a fantastic eye as well as a personality that gets the best out of his clients, resulting in gorgeous photos. Enjoy! www.matthuntphotography.co.nz
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STAR ATTRACTION To celebrate Chinese New Year and the Year of the Dragon, we thought it would be fun to check out our fun guide to your Chinese star sign and then find out whether you can expect your relationship with your partner to be smooth sailing or red hot!
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The Rat
31 Jan 1900 to 19 Feb 1901 18 Feb 1912 to 6 Feb 1913 5 Feb 1924 to 24 Jan1925 24 Jan 1936 to 10 Feb 1937 10 Feb 1948 to 14 Feb 1949 28 Jan 1960 to 14 Feb 1961 16 Jan 1972 to 2 Feb 1973 2 Feb 1984 to 19 Feb 1985
Never without admirers, Rats are charming and generous. Their bright and happy personalities make them very attractive to others. Parents and children are very important in the Rat’s life and they love their home. On the negative side, they may appear calm but underneath they are restless. Rats often try to do too much at once, tiring themselves (and their loved ones!) out.
The Ox
19 Feb 1901 to 7 Feb 1902 6 Feb 1913 to 25 Jan 1914 25 Jan 1925 to 12 Feb 1926 11 Feb 1937 to 30 Jan 1938 29 Jan 1949 to 16 Feb 1950 15 Feb 1961 to 4 Feb 1962 3 Feb 1973 to 22 Jan 1974 20 Feb 1985 to 8 Feb 1986 2 Feb 1984 to 19 Feb 1985
Renown for being dependable and determined, people born in the year of the Ox also are well known for being stubborn. If this happens it is best to get out of their way and let them cool off! They are very straightforward and often don’t understand the love games other signs play. They like to develop intimate relationships over a long period of time – but once they make up their minds that they love you, they are loyal and giving, almost to a fault.
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The Tiger
8 Feb 1902 to 28 Jan 1903 26 Jan 1914 to 13 Feb 1915 13 Feb 1926 to 1 Feb 1927 31 Jan 1938 to 18 Feb 1939 17 Feb 1950 to 5 Feb 1951 5 Feb 1962 to 24 Jan 1963 23 Jan 1974 to 10 Feb 1975 9 Jan 1986 to 28 Jan 1987
People born in the year of the Tiger have super egos and love being the centre of attention – and they can deserve it! Generous, playful, romantic, passionate and affectionate, the Tiger’s zest for life makes them very attractive mates. Recognise that the Tiger has a jealous and possessive nature and be careful you don’t bruise that ego though, they may never forgive you!
The Rabbit
29 Jan 1903 to 15 Feb 1904 14 Feb 1915 to 16 Feb 1916 2 Feb 1927 to 22 Jan 1928 19 Feb 1939 to 7 Feb 1940 6 Feb 1951 to 26 Jan 1952 25 Jan 1963 to 12 Feb 1964 11 Feb 1975 to 30 Jan 1976 29 Jan 1987 to 16 Feb 1988
Rabbits are very sensitive to beauty; these are the peace-makers of the Chinese zodiac. They have good words to say about everybody and are extremely understanding. Gracious, soft spoken, warm and friendly, the Rabbit is an easy sign to be with. They teach others how to relax. Rabbits make few enemies and rarely get into serious trouble. As one of the peaceful signs, don’t expect them to go out and do battle for you. 57
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The Dragon
16 Feb 1904 to 3 Feb 1905 3 Feb 1916 to 22 Jan 1917 23 Jan 1928 to 9 Feb 1929 8 Feb 1940 to 26 Jan 1941 27 Jan 1952 to 13 Feb 1953 13 Feb 1964 to 1 Feb 1965 31 Jan 1976 to 17 Feb 1977 17 Feb 1988 to 5 Feb 1989
Like the name suggests, Dragons are fiery signs. They have no trouble attracting admirers with their love of life and vital presence. Those admirers keep Dragons optimistic and happy as they are at their best when they have someone who believes in them. They show their emotions easily and can often be heart-breakers, taking it for granted that everyone loves them. Dragons are proud and have high ideals which they strive to live up to.
The Snake
4 Feb 1905 to 24 Jan1906 23 Jan 1917 to 10 Feb1918 10 Feb1929 to 29 Jan 1930 27 Jan 1941 to 14 Feb 1942 14 Feb 1953 to 2 Feb 1954 2 Feb 1965 to 20 Jan 1966 18 Feb 1977 to 6 Feb 1978 6 Feb 1989 to 26 Jan 1990
Elegant and well-mannered, Snakes are romantic, graceful and charming. They love expensive things and will usually save for the real thing (which could be an expensive wedding!). Passionate, but sometimes jealous, Snakes can negotiate their way through any situation, often using their sense of humour to lighten the mood. Snakes are great to have around during a crisis as they are strong and always keep their heads.
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The Horse
25 Jan 1906 to 12 Feb 1907 11 Feb 1918 to 31 Jan 1919 30 Jan 1930 to 16 Feb 1931 15 Jan 1942 to 4 Feb 1943 3 Feb 1954 to 23 Jan 1955 21 Jan 1966 to 8 Feb 1967 7 Feb 1978 to 27 Jan 1979 27 Jan 1990 to 14 Feb 1991
Hot-blooded, hot-tempered and impatient, Horses easily and gladly demonstrate their love for their partner. This can make them a bit vulnerable because they give up everything for the object of their affections. The Horse is not a jealous or possessive sign and in return they love their own freedom. The other thing they love is flattery â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it will just get you everywhere with them!
The Goat
13 Feb 1907 to 1 Feb 1908 1 Feb 1919 to 19 Feb 1920 17 Feb 1931 to 5 Feb 1932 5 Jan 1943 to 24 Jan 1944 24 Jan 1955 to 11 Feb 1956 9 Feb 1967 to 28 Jan 1968 28 Jan 1979 to 15 Feb 1980 15 Feb 1991 to 3 Feb 1992
The Goat is one sign that truly appreciates romance: those born under this sign were born for roses, candlelight and soft music. Their shy, gentle nature means that they often donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t communicate what about is bothering them, and you may have to pry it out of them. However, when it comes to listening to their partner, Goat can be compassionate and understanding, accepting and forgiving. Appreciation of their talents make Goats glow. 59
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The Monkey
2 Feb 1908 to 21 Jan 1909 20 Feb 1920 to 7 Feb 1921 6 Feb 1932 to 25 Jan 1933 25 Jan 1944 to 12 Feb 1945 12 Feb 1956 to 30 Jan 1957 30 Jan 1968 to 16 Feb 1969 16 Feb 1980 to 4 Feb 1981 4 Feb 1992 to 22 Jan 1993
The original and intelligent Monkey is highly regarded as clever and charming. Delighting in their own accomplishments, they have a supreme belief in themselves. Being quick-witted and innovative, you need to keep on your toes to keep a Monkey interested. Keep in mind that they will try anything at least once and enjoy it immensely!
The Rooster
22 Jan 1909 to 9 Feb 1910 8 Feb 1921 to 27 Jan 1922 26 Jan 1933 to 13 Feb 1934 13 Feb 1945 to 1 Feb 1946 31 Jan 1957 to 17 Feb 1958 17 Feb 1969 to 5 Feb 1970 5 Feb 1981 to 24 Jan 1982 23 Jan 1993 to 9 Feb 1994
Romantic and eccentric, Roosters are attractive and colourful, optimistic and organised. Ambition is strong in this sign and the Roosterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stamina is something to be in awe of. They truly believe they are right and this stamina means they win their point at all costs. Even when they are wrong, they will still be right in one way or another!
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The Dog
10 Feb 1910 to 29 Jan 1911 28 Jan 1922 to 13 Feb 1923 14 Feb 1934 to 3 Feb 1935 2 Feb 1946 to 21 Jan 1947 18 Feb 1958 to 7 Feb 1959 6 Feb 1970 to 26 Jan 1971 25 Jan 1982 to 12 Feb 1983 10 Feb 1994 to 30 Jan 1995
Like manâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best friend, dogs are extremely protective of their loved ones. And once they decide you fall into the loved ones category, you will stay there for life: dogs are faithful and rarely change their mind about people. Dogs are honest and friendly; however they can be quite private until you gain their confidence. Once you have you will be reward with a playful sense of fun!
The Pig
30 Jan 1911 to 17 Feb 1912 16 Feb 1923 to 4 Feb 1924 4 Feb 1935 to 23 Jan 1936 22 Jan 1947 to 9 Feb 1948 8 Feb 1959 to 27 Jan 1960 27 Jan 1971 to 15 Jan 1972 13 Feb 1983 to 1 Feb 1984 31 Jan 1995 to 18 Feb 1996
The peace-loving Pig hates arguments and often forms long-last, very deep relationships. They are very sociable and can be very hedonistic, often to the detriment of the other areas of their lives: work hard and play hard is their motto. Honest, trustworthy, Pigs have big hearts and a calm, sincere approach to life. They possess the old-fashioned chivalry that can be addictive.
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Your Compatibility According to Chinese Astrology, the twelve signs can be grouped into four groups of three. These groupings supposedly represent animals that think alike and accordingly are good matches. These four groups are:
First Group: Rat, Dragon, Monkey This group has positive thinking and passion in common. Relationships can be intense, but this group likes it this way!
Second Group: Ox, Snake, Rooster Patient and deep thinking, the Ox, Snake and Rooster can really appreciate each otherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s careful and conscious nature.
Third group: Tiger, Horse, Dog This energetic third group are always looking for a true soul mate, which makes other signs in their group an excellent match!
Fourth Group: Rabbit, Goat, Pig The last group are great believers in mutual co-operation and peace. Very giving, the Rabbit, Goat and Pig are considerate and loving. Of course, these are just general guidelines and there are other factors to consider like whether your year of birth is considered fire, earth, wind, water or metal. A trip to a Chinese Astrologer may be in order!
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nadia couture Redefining bridesmaids. nadia couture is Aucklandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier bridesmaid shop. Timeless design, quality fabrics and meticulous craftsmanship for the bride and your bridesmaids needs. nadiacouture garments range from soft silk chiffon to elegant formal satin, available in a wide range of colours and sizes. To compliment the dresses, nadia couture has exquisite jewellery and beautiful evening bags, guaranteeing nadia remains a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;must-seeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; destination for your entire bridal party and every evening occasion.
271a Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby, Auckland customerservices@nadiacouture.co.nz
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Phone: 09 361 1205 www.nadiacouture.co.nz
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- Made to Measure - From $500 - Free delivery - Wide Selection - High Quality Click below to visit us now!
www.donnazuri.com Are you looking for a professional hairdresser and makeup artist who can come to you on your wedding day? With over 10 years in the industry, Natalie is working extensively in Fashion, Advertising and Film, as well as creating stunning results for bridal parties. Natalie's work is both versatile and innovative, offering her customers the complete package without compromise. Please go to my website www.natalieshields.com to view my work and prices.
www.natalieshields.com
Through the Lens
Showcasing Photographic Excellence
Photograph by VisionWorks Photography
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Vanilla Images
Website: www.vanillaimages.co.nz Email: chris@vanillaimages.co.nz Mobile: 021 023 94008 Qualified Member NZ Institute of Professional Photography Auckland and Northland
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Suzanne McNatty - Photography by Design
Website: www.photographybydesign.co.nz Email: mcnatty@ihug.co.nz Mobile: 027 567 5990 Associate Member NZ Institute of Professional Photography Southland
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projectShot images
Award-winning wedding photography & video production Website: www.projectshot.com
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Email: info@projectshot.com Mobile: 021 685 871 Auckland
Dilworth Photography Website: www.dilworthphotography.co.nz Email: dilworthphotography@gmail.com Phone: 027 468 1865 Auckland
Greenapple Photo & Video Studio Website: www.greenapple.co.nz Mobile: 021 119 5567 Auckland
Email: wearegreenapple@gmail.com
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Amanda Wignell Photography Website: www.awp.co.nz Email: amanda@awp.co.nz Phone: 09 426 2647 Mobile: 027 615 3078 NZIPP Master of Photography Auckland and Northland (NZ Institute of Professional Photography)
Brett Lees, Unique Visions Photography Website: www.uniquevisions.co.nz Email: brett@uniquevisions.co.nz Phone: 09 8133 519 Mobile: 0274 913 061 Qualified Member NZ Institute of Professional Photography Auckland
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Jodie C Photography Website: www.jodiecphotography.co.nz
Email: info@jodiecphotography.co.nz Phone: 021 323 829 Auckland & Nationwide
Emma Hughes Photography Website: www.emmahughes.co.nz www.weddingsonwaiheke.co.nz Email: emma@emmahughes.co.nz Phone: 09 372 8729 Mobile: 021 051 3292 Waiheke and Auckland Master NZ Institute of Professional Photography
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Amy Schulz Photography
Website: www.amyschulz.co.nz Email: AmySchulzPhotography@gmail.com Mobile: 0211556071 Wellington and Nationwide
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Mike Hill Photography
Website: www.mikehillphotography.co.nz Email: info@mikehillphotography.co.nz Phone: 07 863 1180 Mobile: 021 507 537 Waihi, Nationwide & International Qualified Member NZ Institute of Professional Photography
Jan Maree Vodanovich Photography and Art Website: www.janmareeart.co.nz Email: jan@janmareeart.co.nz Phone: 09 236 8553 Mobile: 027 281 5921 Auckland, Franklin, Hamilton
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Backyard Studio
Web: www.backyardstudio.co.nz Phone: 021 143 7289 Christchurch
Email: info@backyardstudio.co.nz
New Regent Studios Website: www.photos.co.nz Email: info@photos.co.nz Phone: 03 355 4448 Mobile: 027 229 2329 Christchurch
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Jessica Photography
Website: www.jessicaphotography.co.nz Email: info@jessicaphotography.co.nz Phone: 09 537 5533 Mobile: 027 658 8831 Auckland Qualified Member NZ Institute of Professional Photography
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VisionWorks Photography
Website: www.visionworks.co.nz Email: tim@visionworks.co.nz Phone: 09 845 5925 Mobile: 021 44 88 17 Auckland
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Jeremy Hill Photography Website: www.jeremyhill.co.nz Email: enquiries@jeremyhill.co.nz Phone: (09) 8263394 Mobile: 021 2279196 Auckland
Vicky Broadbent Website: www.vickybroadbent.co.nz Qualified Member NZ Institute of Professional Photography
Email: broadbent@xtra.co.nz Phone: 021 633 404 Coromandel and Auckland
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Ah, February, the month of love, of red roses and hearts and, of course, of Valentine’s Day. Celebrating Valentine’s Day doesn’t need to break the bank - you can treat your partner and show them why you love them without shelling out a lot of money or resorting to the usual flowers and chocolates (not that there is ever anything wrong with flowers and chocolates!). We have some great ideas for celebrating your love by doing something a little different:
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• Exchange hour-long massages: Turn the lights down and burn some red toned candles, light incense or aromatherapy oils, get out the soft, fluffy towels and some beautifully scented massage oil. Try ylang ylang, rose essential or jasmine for a sensual massage or lavender for a relaxing massage. Please note that essential oils should not be used whilst pregnant and you should get advice before using them (or massaging) while pregnant. • Cook your fiancé his or her favourite meal: Set the table with a tablecloth and napkins for that ‘restaurant feel’, get out your best wine glasses and set the mood with candlelight. Think outside the square a little: if you have a fantastic back yard, set the scene with glittering fairylights and a picnic rug beneath the trees; love the beach? Make your special dinner one you can enjoy on the sand. Not sure what to cook – see our fantastic ideas below! • Write some personalised love notes: Purchase some nice stationery, ensuring you get matching envelopes. On each piece of paper write one thing that you love, or made you fall in love with your partner. It may be a memory of a first date, the way their hair falls over their eyes, the way they always open the door for you…it’s your list and a great way to think about why your beloved is so special to you! Wrap them in a red ribbon and let your fiancé know they can open them all at once or one at a time.
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• Write something racier: Along the lines of the above, this time write down things you would like to do with your partner in the future. And before you start thinking this is a bit raunchy for a wedding magazine, remember that the things can be experiences like bungy-jumping, hiking in the Andes, having a child together… • Post it: Also expanding on the personalised love notes, instead of stationery you could write on post-it notes and leave them all over the house, in his car, in his lunch box… Think about what your partner does during the day and where and leave notes in appropriate places.
HOW DID YOU CELEBRATE? We’d love to hear from you as to how you celebrated Valentine’s Day. Drop us an email to info@engaged.co.nz and share the love!
• Test your love languages: Many of you would have heard of the five love languages: words of appreciation, quality time, acts of service, gifts, and physical touch. Both of you can go online and take the test and find out what makes the both of you really respond. Use this knowledge to expand your ways of expressing your love to each other.
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The Feast
With Valentine’s Day falling on a Tuesday this year, you might think that you won’t have enough time to prepare a beautiful celebratory meal.. well, think again!
Prawn cocktail with a twist What you need: 20 medium sized cooked prawns Baby rocket leaves ¼ cup mayonnaise
1 teaspoon finely grated lime rind 1 teaspoon lime juice ½ red thai chilli, seeded and sliced thinly
If you are lucky enough, your prawns will be shelled already. If not, peel and devein them, leaving the tails intact. Toss the prawns with the rocket in a large bowl and then divide among serving dishes (a clear glass can look great!). Combine the mayonnaise, lime rind and juice and chilli and spoon over the prawns. Serve. As an alternative, you could serve the prawns on sliced baguette. Add a little tomato pesto to the mayo mix, spread it evenly over the bread, top with a cooked prawn and add a basil leaf for garnish. Too easy!
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Fillet Mignon What you need: 2 fillet steaks (use eye fillet steak â&#x20AC;&#x201C; you will notice the difference!) 2-4 rashers of bacon 2 small bamboo skewers or toothpicks 20g butter at room temperature ½ clove of garlic, crushed ½ tablespoon of finely chopped parsley Make garlic butter by combining all ingredients and mix well. Wrap each steak with a bacon rasher and secure with a bamboo skewer or toothpick. Melt butter in pan and cook steaks until browned all over and cooked as desired. Serve steaks topped with extra garlic butter, if desired, and your favourite vegetables. Our vote is for baby potatoes, carrots and asparagus!
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Chocolate Mousse Recipe from Nigella.com
What you need: 100g mini marshmellows 25g soft butter 125g good dark chocolate (minimum 70% cocoa solids), chopped into small pieces 30ml hot water 140ml double cream ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Put the first four ingredients in a heavy-based pot or saucepan and melt the contents over a low heat, stirring every now and again. Remove from the stove top. Whip the cream with the vanilla extract until thick and fold into the cooling chocolate mix until you have a smooth, cohesive mixture. Pour the mixture into glasses or small bowls, chill and eat! For a garnish try chocolate curls or berries (to be put on the mousse right before serving).
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R O M A N T I C A L B E RTO N 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: +64 9 846 7367
Are you looking for a professional hairdresser and makeup artist who can come to you on your wedding day? With over 10 years in the industry, Natalie is working extensively in Fashion, Advertising and Film, as well as creating stunning results for bridal parties. Natalie's work is both versatile and innovative, offering her customers the complete package without compromise. Please go to my website www.natalieshields.com to view my work and prices.
www.natalieshields.com
The Checklist Engaged to 9 months before Task
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Announce your engagement, including notices in the newspaper Organise for your families to meet, if they haven’t done so already Choose your bridesmaids, groomsmen, MC, flower girls, page boys Discuss the type of wedding you want, including budget Compile a draft guest list (this will help determine venue size) Choose venues for the ceremony and reception Set the date and time for the wedding Choose and book the following: • Photographer • Videographer • Entertainment • Caterer • Florist • Transport • Wedding Co-ordinator • Celebrant Start thinking about your dress (you may need to book a dressmaker) Consider purchasing wedding insurance to cover those things that are out of your control which may result in the wedding being postponed or cancelled Have an engagement party
9 months before Task
Order your wedding dress Choose your accessories: veil, jewellery, underwear, shoes and so on Choose the attire for the rest of the wedding party as applicable: • Groom • Bridesmaids • Groomsmen • Flower girls • Page boys Select stationery including: • Invitations
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• Thank you cards/notes • Place name cards • RSVP cards • Seating plan • Envelopes Book a calligrapher Send out save-the-date cards Contact rental companies to hire equipment, marquees, tables, etc Organise gift registry Start thinking about your honeymoon
6 months before Task
Order bridesmaids’ dresses Order/book the groom’s and groomsmen’s suits Help your mother and mother-in-law with their outfits Discuss your beauty regime with your beauty therapist Book in for marriage preparation course if needed Decide on and order your wedding cake Book your accommodation for the wedding night Investigate accommodation options for out of town guests Choose and purchase your wedding rings Make any honeymoon reservations
4 months before Task
Book hairdresser and make-up artist Order favours Discuss menu options with caterer/venue, including wine selection Organise entertainment if you are having children at the reception Speak with the celebrant or minister and decide on an order of service, responsibilities, speech making, readings, etc. Set your rehearsal date Let people know if they will be making a speech, doing a reading, etc Purchase wedding gifts for each other and the wedding party Organise time off work for your honeymoon Renew passports if necessary!
2 months before Task
Post invitations Write your vows Have your hair and makeup trials (remember to take your veil etc)
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Organise dancing lessons for the first dance Organise your hen’s and buck’s nights with the wedding party Confirm: • Flowers with florist – do they fit with the theme, colours, dresses • Menu with caterer • Accommodation for yourselves and your guests Organise any legal work, for example, pre-nuptial agreements, wills
1 month before Task
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Apply for your marriage licence Confirm and finalise final guest numbers Make a seating plan (allow time for disagreements!) Have your dress fittings Organise bridal party’s final fittings (including accessories) Confirm groom’s and groomsmen’s outfits are ready Write your speech Confirm honeymoon accommodation and flight bookings Organise a house-sitter for while you are on honeymoon
2 weeks before Task
Confirm with everyone that you have booked for your wedding, advise final numbers and provide a emergency contact number to: • Venue • Caterer • Celebrant/Minister • Photographer • Videographer • Entertainment • Florist • Cake maker • Stationery • Car hire company • Hairdresser • Makeup artist • Favours • Hire company Make a list of everything that needs to be set up and/or taken to the ceremony and reception Have your final dress fitting including accessories. Take your chief bridesmaid so she knows how to how to attach your train etc.
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Make sure the bridesmaids have their dresses, footwear and accessories Have your final haircut and colour before the wedding Make sure the groom has his hair cut Finalise seating plan for reception Write place cards Practise walking around in your wedding shoes Have hen’s night and buck’s night
1 week before Task
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Pick up your wedding dress and hang it in a safe place Wedding rehearsal (you may like to give the bridal party their gifts then) Pick up hire items, including groom’s and groomsmen’s attire Confirm honeymoon arrangements Pack for honeymoon Have your engagement ring professionally cleaned Pack an emergency kit for the day Final check on arrangements and plan for the day: • Who has the rings? • Have you paid entertainers etc ahead of time or do you need to take money? • Who is taking the gifts home after the wedding? • Who is dry-cleaning your dress the next day? • Who is returning the suits? • Make sure the bridal party are aware of their roles • Give a list of important contacts to a trusted family member or friend (can be the chief bridesmaid or the mother of the bride)
The day before Task
Relax and spend some quality time on your own! Present each other with gifts and remind each other why you love the other Give wedding bands to the best man and/or chief bridesmaid to hold during the ceremony
The big day Enjoy yourself!
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