With This Ring 11-09-15

WITH THIS RING – FREE

September 2015 | Issue 17 | FREE

Fit for a

princess

www.withthisring.co.nz

gorgeous gowns for elegance & grace

Dream Themes

& picture-perfect receptions

Win an idyllic honeymoon in Vanuatu

Rings & things designed to shine

september 2015 – ISSUE 17

Beautiful blooms

find your perfect bouquet

2 With This Ring

Contents Issue 17

september 2015

page 3 page 4 page 5-25 page 22 page 26 page 27-29 page 30 page 31 page 32 page 33-39 page 40-41 page 42-43 page 44-45 page 46-49 page 50 page 51-53 page 54-91 page 92-102 page 103-105 page 106-111 page 112-113 page 114 page 115-119 page 120-135 page 136-137 page 138-139 page 140-142 page 143-145

New Season Trends Your Wedding Checklist Bridal Gowns Big Day – a Hanmer Springs Wedding Big Day in Auckland Hairstyles & Retro Styles Cute Styles for Kids Stylish Shoes Fragrances for Him and for Her Jewellery Beauty Collars, Cuffs + Suits Bridesmaids – Colours and Trends Mother of the Bride Fashion Wedding Planners Celebrants & Ceremonies Venues Food and Beverages Photography Flowers & Decorations Wedding Cakes Transport Invitations and Traditions Honeymoons at Home or Away Hosting and Diplomacy Wedding Shows and Expos Mates, Maids & Gifts Music & Entertainment

17

Win

6

31

27

COVER IMAGE: Gown Brides of Merivale Mel wears a Kate Dowman exclusive lace gown $3190 photoGrapher Johannes Van Kan, wedding photographer maKe up Michelle Raasch, from Kristen Stewart School of Make Up haIr Corkin + Friends Flowers Black Dahlia Designs model Mel Vink – From Portfolio Modelling Agency accessorIes Windsor Designs

113 publIshed bY:

Star Media P O Box 1467, Christchurch Ph: 03 364 7461

sales manaGer: Jenny Wright adVertIsInG: Mark Sinclair wrIter: Wendy Dunlop desIGner: Carol Beaumont

With This Ring 3

ADVERTORIAL

ROBYN CLIFFE WITH

Fashion Week Designs

Featuring design elements from the best stages of historical design with lace collage from the 60’s to the finale garment of a coat and gown featuring fabric from “House of Valentino, Robyn’s range showed the diversity and quality of design available in New Zealand.

Bridal gown design is going through an exciting stage, showcasing something different, strongly emphasising the return to soft shades of colour, mixing drifts of colour through layers and giving a Bo Ho natural look to the gown or reflecting the soft pinks and greys of an evening sky.

“Gosh we can hardly keep up, but the stimulation is very exciting and this season is no exception” says Robyn.

The layers can be done in soft tulle colours or with an under colour and ivory lace overlay, which gives profile to the lace and glimpses of colour coming through it. The other exciting style change features gold, silver and mushroom sheath gowns, almost ‘Hollywood’ in styling, sleek, sophisticated and fun.

Following their latest design challenge at New Zealand Fashion Week Robyn’s eight gowns presented in Auckland will then be shown at The Star’s Bridal Show catwalk parades.

“We promise something very exciting from the Team at Robyn Cliffe and I love it, especially for New Zealand brides, because we photograph our brides in such dramatic and natural landscapes” says Robyn.

Now finally located in a beautiful studio, Robyn welcomes new brides to the ample showroom and consulting area. With the sunny on-site workroom upstairs, stunning creations are emerging from her team, with beautifully designed and constructed individual styles. “We have also just acquired two new ranges to keep our customers on top of these new styles which are very exciting to view.”

For budget minded brides Robyn has also a selected range of gowns for $500.00. She believes that “it competes with internet buying, but the gown can be tried on and bought with confidence with our name behind the purchase, so you can look lovely on your wedding day, without breaking the bank!”

New brides are welcomed at Robyn Cliffe Couturiere located at 1064 Colombo St Edgeware Village St Albans Christchurch.

Phone 03 366 1111 or visit www.robyncliffe.co.nz

Award winning Couturiere Robyn Cliffe wowed the wedding crowd in Auckland recently!

After a life time in fashion design, she presented her range at Fashion Week last month and with her team, staged their show in the NZ Weddings presentation.

AWAITING COPY Ad Number: MS1562 Artwork: MS1562 Size: 13.5x3 Description: ROBYN CLIFFE COUTURIERS Account: Colour: F Filename: StockistsMS1562 of Couture design Pronovias La Sposa Demetrios Enzoane Fabulous jewellery

NEW LOCATION Cnr Edgeware & Colombo St, St Albans PHONE 03 366 1111 New Location, New Stock: 188 Papanui Rd, Merivale

www.robyncliffe.co.nz Phone 03 355 8777

4 With This Ring

C g h n e i c d k d l i e s t W 9-12 Months BEFORE PLAN SET BOOK SELECT DISCUSS CHOOSE ARRANGE ORDER LOOK DECIDE

         

Style and budget of the wedding Date time & place Venue(s), musicians/disco Caterer Wedding flowers with chosen florist Your photographer Video photography Wedding transport At wedding dress designs Colour schemes

6-9 Months BEFORE CHOOSE VISIT SELECT BAKE RESERVE

    

Your wedding dress Minister, Priest or Celebrant Groom’s and attendants’ clothing Or Order the wedding cake Honeymoon travel and accommodation

1 Month BEFORE APPLY PURCHASE ARRANGE ATTEND ORGANISE LIAISE FIT CONTINUE

       

2 Weeks BEFORE RECONFIRM WEAR ENJOY FINAL FIT WRAP PRACTICE

     

3-6 Months BEFORE FIT ESTABLISH FINALISE ORGANISE MAKE LIST

     

Suits for Groom and Groomsmen Beauty and exercise regime Wedding invitations Accommodation for out of town guests Wedding day hair/make up appointments Wedding gifts/registry

      

Invitations On reception menu and beverages Floristry details Passports, travel plans documents Gifts for attendants Wedding rings Wedding shoes

All bookings, numbers, times and details Bridal shoes for wedding day comfort Hen’s night fun or pamper Your dress and attendants’ outfits Gifts for attendants Your wedding vows

1 Week BEFORE PACK CHECK REHEARSE REST

   

For your honeymoon All travel details The ceremony As much as possible

On the DAY

2 Months BEFORE SEND SETTLE CONFIRM CHECK BUY SELECT BUY

For Marriage Licence Thank-you gifts for parents Reception seating plan Hairdresser with veil/headgear Wedding rehearsal With florist, photographer, chauffeur, celebrant Wedding Dress Beauty and exercise regime

SLEEP EAT PAMPER LET THANK RELAX ENJOY

      

Late Breakfast Yourself Others do their job Family and friends Don’t stress over tiny details YOUR WEDDING DAY!

As unique as you

By Appointment only 226 Barrington St, Somerfield, Christchurch Ph 03 337 0226 www.bridesofmerivale.co.nz | info@bridesofmerivale.co.nz

6 With This Ring

Win

THE HONEYMOON of your dreams

IN VANUATU With This Ring brings to you this fantastic package kindly supplied by The Havannah and Air Vanuatu.

Prize package includes return airfares for 2 from Auckland on Air Vanuatu.

5 nights in a Garden Villa at the Havannah, with Daily Al a Carte Breakfast.

To be into win

the fantastic prize package, please email your name address and contact number to, wtr@starmedia.kiwi.

Entries close on November 20th 2015. * Special Conditions apply

Exclusively for adults and located just 30 minutes drive from Port Vila, the Havannah is an oasis of tranquility and your perfect romantic retreat.

With only 17 luxurious villas set amidst elegantly landscaped gardens, you can be assured privacy and personalized service, Havannah style.

Samoa Point, North Efate, Vanuatu Tel: +678 (35600) I Email: reservations@thehavannah.com Website: www.thehavannah.com

SHAPE

8 With This Ring

FIT To look your best, be sure to have your dress expertly fitted whether it is a designer gown or an off the peg purchase, with final fittings completed 1-2 weeks before the wedding. A gown that fits you perfectly should not be too loose or too tight, while allowing you to be comfortable, relaxed, move freely and sit down or stand up with ease.

Wedding gowns are very varied but the generally fall into three categories of shape: the classic A line, an elegant fitted or draped skirt or the fuller Cinderella style. Together with empire line or drop-waisted variations, these styles can enhance or disguise aspects of body shape if necessary.

FABRIC Wedding dresses use the most gorgeous

fabrics; silk, satin, lace, chiffon, voile, brocade, and crepe that may be shirred, embroidered, beaded, pleated, gathered, draped and shaped into the dress of your dreams. When choosing the fabric, as well as price and practicality you will want to consider its appropriateness for the season, time of day and location of your wedding.

Flatter

YOURSELF

Choosing a wedding dress is one of the most exciting tasks for any bride. But a wedding dress that enhances your figure with a flattering cut, style & fabric will make you look and feel fabulous.

ACCESSORIES AND EMBELLISHMENTS

Also think about the jewellery you may wish to wear and whether your choice suits the season & style of your wedding gown. Understatement is very much in style so go easy on too much bling especially if your gown is elaborate too.

Photo credit: Susanna Blatchford

NECKLINE

By Appointment

03 365 0325 | www.louiseanderson.co.nz

The bust, face, neck, shoulders and upper arms can all be accentuated or downplayed as you wish by the style of your gown’s neckline! Consider what flatters you most; strapless, halter, shoestring, off the shoulder or backless styles or perhaps square, sweetheart, boatneck, portrait or scoop necklines. The current popularity of lace or sheer illusion necklines is especially flattering.

TRAIN

Trains come in various styles and lengths. They can provide supreme elegance, but they can also be hard to manage! Be sure to practice walking and turning so that you are confident on the day and consider a detachable train or one that can be looped and shortened for dancing later.

SHADE

While most brides opt for the traditional “white” wedding gown, there are many shades from white that will suit different skin and hair tones. Different fabrics will also alter the hue or sheen of the shade when it catches the light. A wedding dress does not have to be white and there are stunning alternatives such as silver, gold, marshmallow and magnolia. It is best to test the fabric in natural light against the skin tone of your face. If a particular shade makes the skin look ruddy, sallow or too pale, it should be avoided.

VEILS

Veils are a matter of personal choice and may be long like a train, fingertip length or short and sassy like a cocktail veil. The face veil that is lifted after the ceremony is also enjoying new popularity. Veil fabrics can range from simple net to elaborate lace, voile, or embroidered chiffon and, depending on the chosen hairstyle, be secured with a comb, flowers, tiara, jewellery, hat or fascinator.

Sizes 2 to 30 Davis Bridal 237 Brougham Street (Opposite Sydenham Park) Christchurch 03 343 3652

VW8706X

House of Kavina Ltd 335 South Road Caversham, Dunedin 03 487 6497 Brides on Thorndon Cnr Customhouse Quay and Brandon Street Wellington 04 472 4717 Churchwood Bridal 44 Currie Street New Plymouth 06 757 5503 Bridal Studio The Chancery Building 12 Ashley Street Palmerston North 06 357 4923 Vanilla Bridal 721a Cameron Road Tauranga 07 579 4452 Bridal Gallery Shop 115a Centre Place Mall, (Upstairs), Victoria Street Hamilton 07 834 1237 Felicitys Bridal 92 Albert Street, Auckland City 09 303 4858

www.venusgowns.co.nz Phone: 09 238 0048

10 With This Ring

ADVERTORIAL

A WHO’S WHO OF

International Designers

Christchurch

With easy parking, experienced consultants and a dazzling collection of gorgeous gowns waiting forOF: you, Wilkins Bridal is the STOCKISTS ultimate one stop bridal shop.

Martina Liana Brides Desire will help you find the perfect Your bridal gown gown, the perfect fit and the ideal Sophia Tolli is more than just a accessories to complete your Essense choice of style and bridal picture. “We always look forward to sharing the magical shade, it should Stella York moment when a bride tries on a reflect your attitude, dress and knows immediately it is Sorella Vita “the one” says April. style and spirit Brides love the thought of says manager April Meredith.

She Mancini being able to do everything carefully selects stock to ensure under one roof. With wonderful there is something for everyone Angeline accessories as well as a selection and believes “there is not a bride Angeloof bridesmaid gowns including we cannot fit or Alfred a style we cannot Alfred Angelo Special Occasion find.”

Jack and Sullivanand Bridesmaid Collections Designed worldwide

“

”

meticulously manufactured for a perfect fit, Wilkins Bridal Christchurch has gathered a magical collection of over 200 stunning gown samples representing a “who’s who” of international designers and labels like Sophia Tolli, Martina Liana, Essense, Stella York, Brides Desire, Mancini, Angeline, Allure, Jack Sullivan and Alfred Angelo.

Bridal gowns for the 2015 season are elegant and sophisticated using exquisite fabrics including luxurious satin and lace, sensational silks and flowing chiffon which are complemented by intricate embroidery or delicate beading with Swarovski crystals.

A wide range of styles from traditional to contemporary suits the individuality and personality of the bride whether she prefers a look that is classical, romantic, retro or modern.

You will receive personalised service by one of April’s extremely experienced team who

(USA) and Sorella Vita of Australia Bridesmaid Collection, brides can find the ideal wedding party choice to complement their gown at the same time. Wilkins Bridal is also extending its range of special occasion wear to include more Mother of the Bride styles, cocktail dresses and elegant long formal gowns.

The spacious showroom at Wilkins Bridal is the ideal atmosphere for your relaxed 1.5 hour long Bridal Consultation because “there is nothing worse than being rushed through the most special moments of looking for your dream gown” says April.

Then, inspired by grace, elegance and romance, you can be sure that your exquisite Wilkins Bridal gown will take his breath away!

You can also see Wilkins Bridal exhibiting on the catwalk at Fashion Week at The Tannery on Friday 9th October, showcasing all the latest and greatest bridal couture.

By Appointment Only

Exhibiting on the catwalk at

Canterbury Fashion Week at The Tannery Friday 9th October. Visit www.cfbw.co.nz to book your tickets now!

Don’t Miss Out

7 Pilgrim Place, Behind Dennys Restaurant, Off Moorehouse Ave P 03 377 8595 M 027 692 3520 E info@wilkinsbridal.co.nz W www.wilkinsbridal.co.nz

ve

Christchurch Christchurch Christchurch Christchurch STOCKISTS STOCKISTS OF: STOCKISTS OF:OF: Martina Martina Liana Liana Martina Liana STOCKISTS OF: Brides Brides Desire Desire Brides Desire Martina Liana Sophia Sophia Tolli Tolli Sophia Tolli Brides Desire Essense Essense Essense Sophia Tolli Stella Stella York York Stella York Essense Sorella Sorella Vita Vita Sorella Vita Stella York Mancini Mancini Mancini Angeline Angeline Sorella Vita Angeline Alfred Alfred Angelo Angelo Alfred Angelo Mancini Jack Jack Sullivan Sullivan Jack Sullivan Angeline

Alfred Angelo Jack Sullivan

Exhibiting xhibiting on the catwalk catwalk EExhibiting onon thethe catwalk atatat

Canterbury Canterbury Fashion Fashion Week Week The The Tannery Tannery Canterbury Fashion Week atatat The Tannery Friday Friday 9th 9th October.

October.

Visit Visit www.cfbw.co.nz Friday 9thE October.

Visit www.cfbw.co.nz xhibiting on thewww.cfbw.co.nz catwalk at tototo book book your your tickets tickets now! now! book your tickets now!

Canterbury Fashion Week at The Tannery

Don’t Don’t Miss Miss Out Out Don’t Miss Out Friday 9th October.

Visit www.cfbw.co.nz to book your tickets Off now!

77Pilgrim Pilgrim Place, Place, Behind Behind Dennys Dennys Restaurant, Restaurant, Off Off Moorehouse Moorehouse Ave Ave 7 Pilgrim Place, Behind Dennys Restaurant, Moorehouse Ave ByAppointment Appointment Only Only

By By Appointment Only

Don’t Miss Out

PP377 03 03377 3778595 8595 MM027 027692 6923520 3520 E Einfo@wilkinsbridal.co.nz info@wilkinsbridal.co.nz WWwww.wilkinsbridal.co.nz www.wilkinsbridal.co.nz P 03 8595 M 027 692 3520 E info@wilkinsbridal.co.nz W www.wilkinsbridal.co.nz

By Appointment Only

12 With This Ring

The Dress of Your Dreams BOUGHT

Beautiful wedding dresses are available “off the peg” at specialist bridal shops. As well as New Zealand designs, many are imported, so be sure to allow adequate time for the dress you select to be ordered from overseas.

With a wonderful range of styles to “try before you buy”, your dream dress might be right there on the rack! Once chosen, your gown can be expertly fitted and altered if necessary. Bridal shops have an impressive selection of accessories and attendants’ dresses to complement your gown.

1

Every bride wants that “once in a lifetime” dress! Finding it may take you on a search of many different options, whether you buy, hire, make, borrow, discover, inherit or have it designed. Sometimes the gown a bride has always imagined wearing is not the one she eventually chooses. It’s a wise bride who goes looking with an open mind to find the style and shade that suits her to perfection.

3

DESIGNED

Having a gown designed and made just for you is the ultimate in individuality, but naturally it will cost you more than a ready made dress.Your designer will want to discuss prospective ideas and styles with you, as well as what suits you and your personality. Bringing an illustration, a piece of lace or item of jewellery is helpful for inspiration. The designer will have access to a range of fabrics and trimmings to create the dress you have chosen. While white is the obvious choice for bridal gowns, ivory, parchment, magnolia, silver, champagne, gold or blush can be even more flattering on some brides.

2 BORROWED

There may be a vintage or heirloom gown belonging to family or friends that you could wear. Borrowed or inherited, such gowns provide special magic on your wedding day and are becoming very sought after.

Care must be taken when handling a vintage dress as the fabric becomes fragile with age and requires expert cleaning and storage.

FOUND

Expensive and exquisite dresses are often to be found in the “for sale” columns, or on Trademe. Many have been purchased or imported from overseas and you may discover a genuine designer bridal gown at a fraction of the original cost.

You can always have it re-fitted or altered with beading or a trim to your personal taste.

4

5

OTHER ALTERNATIVES

Your wedding gown need not be a traditional bridal style, colour or price. Look at ball gowns, cocktail outfits and maxi dresses and try summer sales at designer boutiques as well as chain store racks.

8

PERSONALISED WITH STYLE MADE

6

Choose a pattern and some stunning bridal fabric and let a skilled dressmaker create an exquisite gown for you. With an inspiring selection of silk, satin, lace, brocade and voile, there won’t be another gown exactly like yours, and it won’t be as costly as a designer- dress either.

Be sure to choose a reputable dress maker and always ask to see examples of their work before you decide.

HIRED

7

Hiring a wedding gown often lets you have that dream dress for less than purchasing it or having it made. Unless you plan to keep your gown as an heirloom, hiring can be an excellent option for the budget conscious bride. As well as dedicated wedding hire shops, theatrical costume hire can sometimes provide you with a period gown for a themed wedding, or the inspiration for one!

With style and imagination, a simple dress can always be beautifully and uniquely enhanced with your own personal style of decoration; beading, trimming, appliqué, overlays of lace or chiffon. Add a sparkly belt, sheer sleeves, a sassy jacket or a bolero and hey presto your dress is truly “yours.”

With This Ring 13

EXHIBITORS INFORMATION The Tannery Heritage Hanmer Springs Heritage Queenstown The George Hotel Ashburton Lincoln Motel Commodore Airport Hotel Westhaven Gardens Quality Hotel Elms Capstone Hotels & Resorts The Vineyard at Rossendale Novotel Christchurch Cathedral Square Russley Golf Club Terrace Downs Resort Wigram Base Vbase Continental Kiwi Cuisine Verve Catering Crisp and Vale Catering Victoria Food Cakes Galore Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre Brides of Merivale Robyn Cliffe Couturere To Cherish Bridal Boutique Davis Bridal Louise Anderson Bridal Design Hannah Claire Just Beautiful NZ Filigree Fine Jewels Westende Jewellers Glan James Jewellers Weddings by Collective Concepts Whirl Productions Kim Chan Events Tasteful Affairs Something Borrowed Something New Happy Hire Acropolis Wedding Hire Alyssandra Striking Stationary Eco Celebration The Dear Ones Photobooth Co. Hot Shots Photo Booth Johannes Van Kan Photographer D J Chick The First Dance MJ’s Bridal Dancing Black Dahila Charmed Flowers Christchurch Wedding Flowers Fleurs de Esther Tricia Warwick Naziris Julie Lassen Celebrant Hassle Free Tours Touchdown Car Rentals Christchurch Coach Charters Air Vanuatu The Havannah With This Ring

www.thetannery.co.nz www.heritagehotels.co.nz www.heritagehotels.co.nz www.thegeorge.com www.hotelash.co.nz www.lincolnmotel.co.nz www.commodorehotel.nz www.westhavengardens.co.nz www.qualityhotelelms.co.nz www.capstonehotels.co.nz www.rossendale.co.nz www.accor.com www.russleygolfclub.co.nz www.terracedowns.co.nz www.wigrambase.com www.vbase.co.nz www.continental.co.nz www.kiwicuisine.co.nz www.vervecatering.co.nz www.crispandvale.co.nz www.victoriafoods.co.nz www.cakesgalore.co.nz www.dinnertheatre.co.nz www.bridesofmerivale.co.nz www.robyncliffe.co.nz www.tocherish.co.nz www.davisbridal.co.nz www.louiseanderson.co.nz www.hannahclaire.co.nz fb justbeautiful nz www.filigree.co.nz www.westendejewellers.co.nz www.glenjames.co.nz www.weddingconcepts.co.nz www.whirl.co.nz www.kimchan.co.nz www.tastefulaffairs.co.nz www.sbsn.co.nz www.happyhire.co.nz www.acropolisweddings.co.nz www.alyssandra.co.nz www.ecocelebrations.co.nz www.thedear.com www.hotshotsphotobooth.co.nz www.jvk.co.nz djazure.co.nz facebook.com/thefirstdancechch www.mjsbridaldancing.co.nz www.blackdahliadesigns.co.nz www.charmedflowers.co.nz christchurchweddingflowers.co.nz www.fleursdeesther.co.nz www.triciawarwick-naziris.co.nz www.nzmarriages.co.nz www.hasslefree.co.nz www.touchdowncarrentals.co.nz www.chchcoachcharters.co.nz www.airvanuatu.com www.thehavannah.com www.withthisring.co.nz

Venue, Bridal, Flowers, Photography, Jewellery & Accessories Accomodation, Functions, Weddings, Restaurant & Bar, etc Accomodation, Functions, Weddings, Restaurant & Bar, etc Venue Venue Accomodation Wedding Reception & Venue Wedding Ceremony & Reception Venue Wedding Venue & Accommodation Hotels Wedding Venue Accomodation & Conference Weddings, Conferencing, 21st’s & Dinners Ceremony & Reception Venue Event Venue & Wedding Co-ordination Venues Venues, Marquees, Catering Catering Real Food Catering Catering and Events Catering Wedding Cakes Entertainment Bridal Wear & Accessories Bridal Gowns Wedding Dresses, Flower Girls, Bridal Accessories Bridal Retail & Made to Measure Bridal Gowns & Bridesmaid Dresses Bridesmaids & Occassional Dresses Wedding Make Up & Hair Up Wedding Bands, Engagement Rings, Bridal Jewellery Wedding Bands, Diamond Rings, Jewellery & Gifts Jewellery Wedding Planning, Co-Ordination & Styling Event Planning & Management Event Design, Flowers, Hire Event Planning, Catering, Weddings Wedding & Event Hire Marquee & Event Hire Decorative Items for Hire for your Ceremony and Reception Invitations Wedding Stationery, Favours, Plantable Paper & Seeds Photobooth Hire Photo Booth Hire Wedding Photography Professional Mobile Disco Wedding Dance Choreography Wedding Dance Lessons Flowers Wedding Flower Specialist, Florist Wholesaler & DIY Flowers Flowers Marriage Celebrant Celebrant Wedding Transport, Double Decker Bus Car Hire Wedding Transport International Air Travel Luxury Retreat, Honeymoon Wedding Magazine, Expo Organisers

14 With This Ring

ADVERTORIAL

WEDDING GOWNS

To

Cherish forever

Step through the doors of To Cherish and you will discover a dazzling international range of bridal gowns as well as bridesmaid and flower girl dresses, veils, jewellery, and wedding accessories.

To Cherish is the perfect place to begin your wedding fairytale amid gowns so lovely they will make you gasp. There are styles from full length to tea length, there are gowns that drape, rustle, ruffle or sparkle, there is silk and lace and every shade from white, ivory and cream to champagne, alabaster and taupe.

“A wedding gown is the most special dress a girl can ever wear and choosing it should be thrilling, personal and unique” says Alison of To Cherish Bridal Boutique.

Together with her in-house staff, Alison is passionate about providing a bridal boutique experience and suggests brides “take plenty of time to choose their dress first and then enjoy the fun of accessorising it at their leisure.”

DESIGNER PERFECTION

At To Cherish Alison has secured designer labels that are both exquisite and exclusive including Justin Alexander incorporating the Sincerity and Sweetheart range, Fox Bridal’s House of Jean Fox, Purple Fox, Only You and Sylvia Rose gowns and Crux, Moir, Sonsie, Veromia, Bellice and Mia Mia which are from International Couture. The latest addition is Lillian West, and completes Alison’s fantastic bridal collections.

FREE CONSULTATIONS

To Cherish is one of the last bridal stores in Christchurch to offer free “try on” consultations.

Ideally brides should have a one to one gown consultation 9 – 12 months before the wedding.

Samples range from a size 4 to a size 30 and include specialty dresses for curvy girls that incorporate intricate corsetry to enhance the silhouette. Most dresses take up to 6 months to order and arrive, although rush orders can be here within 8-12 weeks if stock is available.

GENEROUS CUSTOMER REWARD

If you purchase your gown on your first consultation appointment, enjoy a $150 customer reward towards To Cherish bridal accessories such as veils and jewellery.

FOCUS ON SERVICE

To Cherish will make you feel special throughout your bridal experience and beyond!

They will help you choose the perfect gown and offer a full in store alteration service and they recommend any required alterations are done close to the wedding to ensure that perfect fit. Then they will store your gown securely and provide fitting instructions for dressing on the big day.

DREAMS WITHIN REACH

Alison encourages brides to come and see what she has available. Most are surprised and delighted by both the selection and price range of many of the gowns. Because Alison believes that “the right dress need not cost a fortune if it suits the bride and fits to perfection,” their dreams are within reach. Beautiful, affordable and available for purchase then and there, Alison’s Off the Rack selection is heaven-sent for brides with a shorter time frame for arranging their wedding.

With This Ring 15

Whatever the style or the budget, it’s all about offering

beautiful gowns and service, service, service.

New customers include many from overseas who are now living and working in Christchurch so some gowns reflect different cultures too.

“Whatever the style or the budget it’s all about offering beautiful gowns and service, service, service” says Alison.

To complement the bride’s choice of gown, To Cherish stock the fabulous range of Wendy-Ann bridesmaids dresses and can also offer a great selection of veils and jewellery.

To Cherish also make straps, wraps and jackets to complement your gown. For flower girls there’s a To Cherish selection which can be individually customised through to Fox Bridal’s Perfect Little Angel range including the designer “Mini Me” dresses which replicate the bride’s own gown.

Dedicated to sourcing beautiful bridal fashion for your special day, Alison welcomes enquiries, appointments and consultations at To Cherish Bridal Boutique, 569a Colombo St, adjacent to South City carpark, ph (03) 3776800, visit their website www.tocherish.co.nz or email them at enquiries@tocherish.co.nz

AWAITING COPY Ad Number: MS1507 Artwork: MS1507 Size: 6.4x6 Description: To Cherish Account: Colour: F Filename: MS1507

569a Colombo Street, Christchurch 03 377 6800 | www.tocherish.co.nz

16 With This Ring

Underlines

Your choice of bridal underwear will be driven by your particular body shape and what best suits the style and fabric of your gown.

Many wedding gowns are structured with built-in bust support so that there is no need for an additional bra to spoil the line or fit of the dress. If the gown isn’t very structured or you have chosen a light flowing fabric, look for a range of “shape wear” that minimises the visibility of lines, straps or bulges.

Shape wear also offers smooth comfort that won’t irritate you with elastic, scratchy lace or metal hooks.

It’s tempting to go for white or ivory underwear, but unless it’s an identical shade to your gown, it can appear as a shadow through the dress. The most successful tone is nude, preferably as close a shade as possible to your own skin tone.

Once your gown has been chosen, go shopping for the underwear or shape wear you need and take it to your wedding gown fittings. With low neck, back or strapless designs, your wedding gown consultant can also sew in clips or loops so no underwear is visible. Before your wedding day hand wash your new items of underwear and shape wear to remove any unnecessary stiffness.

Wedding Gown Internet Pitfalls It’s your wedding and you want the gown of your dreams. You have pored over wedding magazines, looked at fabrics and designs, been to bridal shops and THEN discovered your perfect wedding gown on the internet at a fraction of the cost!

Of course you are tempted.

It’s so simple; choose the style, colour, fabric, send your measurements and your money and within a few weeks, your gown will arrive. It will be beautiful and so will your bank balance, so where is the harm or the risk?

The first risk is the potential for disappointment. The internet can’t show you the actual dress, nor its quality, fit or finish. New Zealand dressmakers and bridal shops frequently see brides who come to them distraught because the gown they thought they were getting has arrived and is badly made, doesn’t fit, looks cheap

and has wasted their money instead of saving it.

The next risk is not being able to do much about it. It’s difficult to send the dress back if it isn’t right, you will incur extra shipping charges and there may be too little time to get a replacement even if the company was agreeable. New Zealand’s Consumer Guarantees Act doesn’t apply to overseas goods and the company you have bought your gown from is unlikely to provide much customer service back-up.

There’s also a security risk using a credit card and you could get a computer virus when you order from an unknown internet site.You have to wait for your items to be despatched and sadly, there’s no guarantee that having paid for your gown that you will actually receive it.

A recent overseas scam involved customers making their choice from internet gown illustrations, sending their money and eventually receiving a sewing kit containing a few

metres of cheap material, a dress pattern, a reel of thread and some stick-on bling!

These are all personal risks associated with cheap internet purchase, but there are wider issues as well that you may never have considered. Inadvertently you are helping to damage the wedding gown industry in this country. Cheap copy gowns are actually theft of a bona fide designer’s intellectual property and the images used to sell the copies may also breach copyright.

Your copy gown may also allow child labour to flourish in poor countries overseas.

Factories overseas that make genuine gowns pay their workers fairly for their skill and expertise and do not employ children.

However factories making fake gowns cut costs by employing young children housed in appalling accommodation and paid a pittance. When you know that, can you really feel a beautiful bride?

COUNTERFEIT

DESIGNER

With This Ring 17

569a Colombo Street, Christchurch 03 377 6800 www.tocherish.co.nz

18 With This Ring

Astra Bridal

CHOOSING A BRIDAL BOUTIQUE

Where you purchase your wedding gown is a huge part of your planning and overall experience.

But because of the technical nature of wedding gowns it isn’t like dress shopping at the mall!

The first priority is to choose a stylist who has had formal training and experience, so you can be confident about their advice. Astra Bridal’s most common piece of feedback is that the style the bride falls in love with is not what they thought of when they first looked at gowns online. The stylist is an expert in finding what suits your body shape. So you can’t go past trying on gowns before making one of the biggest purchase decisions in your life.

Choose a bridal salon that has a reputation for delivery and has been established for a reasonable period of time. Many salons

come and go leaving a wake of devastated brides when they can’t deliver on their gown.

Look at their testimonials – are they frequently updated and new or are they static comments?

There are some dedicated sites for reviews for providers so make sure you look at testimonials given after the wedding. Some salons are friendly during the gown selection and then don’t want to know you once they have your money! You want to know they keep up the good work all the way through.

A key point to be aware of is that if you buy your designer gown from what they call “bricks and mortar” stores then they will guarantee the authenticity of your gown. If the store isn’t listed as a stockist on the designer’s website then there is a good chance you won’t receive an authentic gown.

Plus the designer won’t give you any post purchase support.

A bridal boutique that offers “head to toe” service gives you the opportunity to see the finished look. Trying on your

PHOTOGRAPHY BY: ALPINE IMAGES

accessories with your gown gives you peace of mind that the overall look will be perfect.

The time you have with them should be fun and enjoyable.

Therefore the salon you choose should be friendly, reputable and know their stuff.

Astra Bridal’s motto is “Taking the Stress Out of the Dress.” That is what you should look for in your bridal boutique - a stressfree experience.

Astra Bridal owner, Lori McPherson wanted South Island brides to have the opportunity of an amazing bridal experience.

Accordingly South Island brides receive a free consultation and $150 credit towards accessories on purchase of their dress. This generous offer is proving very popular and many brides enjoy a special weekend getaway to plan the wedding.

20 With This Ring

• Store the dress in its special packaging until the big day

• Have attendants hold the train or hem away from dust or dirt

• Hang it up on the day to allow any minor creases to drop out

• Watch out for wet grass

• Ensure it’s well away from heat and sunlight • Don’t snag the fabric on your jewellery • Don’t put the gown on it on until the last possible moment • Apply basic makeup and perfume before dressing • Make sure nail polish is absolutely dry • Choose an effective anti perspirant

Don’t Mess the Dress

PHOTO BY: CHARLOTTE SOWMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

• Don’t apply lipstick until after you are dressed

You might only wear your wedding dress for a day, but you will want it to stay perfect and pristine from start to finish. Stains, rain, dust and dirt are a bride’s worst nightmare, so here some ways to ensure any mess stays well away from THE DRESS!

• Watch that shoes don’t catch the hem • Ensure floors are clean or lay a dust-sheet for protection • Stay away from messy foods and use a plate • Avoid red wine like the plague • Choose flowers without stamens that stain • Require wedding vehicles to be groomed and ultra clean • If it’s a wet day have mats, sheets or carpet to step out of the car

• Don’t lean against tree trunks, gateposts or beside car tyres • Spread a sheet on any rustic outdoor furniture • Have umbrellas and wraps to guard against rain showers • Avoid marks from confetti, petals or bubbles at your wedding • Eat carefully and use thick cloth napkins at your reception • Keep away from gravy, sauce, berries and chocolate which are hard to remove • Wash hands to remove perspiration and reapply makeup with care • Detach or loop your train for dancing • After the wedding fold gown into its box or hang it in a white cotton shroud • If you do get a stain on the day blot with a plain white tissue, don’t rub • Arrange for it to be cleaned as soon as possible after the wedding

Sell It or Seal It What will you do with the dress of your dreams when the wedding is over?

For many brides it’s a dilemma, simply because a wedding dress has huge sentimentality and nostalgia.

If the photos are enough and the money would be welcome, selling your dress may be a sensible option. But make sure you have the dress professionally cleaned and you put it up for sale while it is still in fashion. But if you can’t bear to part with it and want it to become an heirloom

gown for your future daughters or grand daughters, you need to preserve it carefully so that it won’t discolour or deteriorate.

Have the dress professionally cleaned as soon as possible after the wedding to avoid any stains becoming oxidized and “set.”

Do not try to remove any marks or stains yourself or use any water or solvents, leave cleaning to the experts. Keep any labels regarding the care of fabrics and give them to the professional cleaner.

Several different methods of cleaning may be needed for

beading, lace, silk, chiffon or satin. After cleaning wrap the dress in acid-free tissue and box securely for storage.Your professionall cleaning will usually be able to provide one or source one for you. Do not store in plastic bags or plastic boxes as the chemicals in the plastic can cause discolouration to the fabric.

Remove any safety pins which could also leave rust marks over time.

Avoid storage in damp or humid conditions and always keep the dress away from heat and sunlight. Check the condition

of the gown regularly and wear light gloves to prevent catching or snagging any of the threads or embellishments.

The fabric will undoubtedly become more fragile over the years, so when you do want to use it again, consult a professional cleaner about its condition before cleaning it for another bridal generation to wear.

With This Ring 21

Presenting a beautiful range of designers available at

Wilkins Bridal

22 With This Ring

The Big Day IN HANMER

Surrounded by 70 invited guests, the couple’s wedding ceremony was held under a pergola in the gardens of The Heritage Hanmer. “We are a blended family and we loved how involved the kids were and so proud of how awesome they were throughout the day.”

As well as creating a “wish list” of the 3 aspects most important to them both – “good food, good atmosphere and good dancing,” Paul and Anna took some special time out in the morning to go for a quiet coffee and exchange gifts with each other “before the madness of the day kicked off.”

They also chose to have “First Look” images and a photo shoot around Hanmer before the 4pm ceremony so they could relax and enjoy the party afterwards.

“We wanted the day to be about family, celebration and lots

of dancing” so the wedding theme was styled on classic Hollywood glamour and romance with diamantes, real candlelight and a black,white and silver colour theme.

Anna’s beautiful wedding dress was designed by Wendy Sullivan for Brides Desire and was “almost everything I planned not to have– I said I didn’t want strapless, lace up or “poofy.” But among the dresses I tried on at Wilkins Bridal, it was amazing and it did have a strapless sweetheart neckline, beautiful bling over the fitted lace-up bodice and a floaty silk skirt with a train!” It also had that Hollywood glam feel “and I loved it” says Anna.

To continue the black, white and silver theme the girls in the wedding party wore silver infinity dresses and Anna carried a bouquet of red silk roses with

When Anna and Paul Flanagan married a few months ago, they chose the alpine village of Hanmer Springs which had special meaning for them both because “That’s where Paul proposed to me” says Anna.

brooches for a “pop of colour. The guys were going to wear regular suits but Paul wears a suit to work and it looked too ordinary for such a special day so they chose tails with a black and silver waistcoat. “They looked awesome too, although I felt a little sorry for them when it got to 27 degrees” says Anna.

Paul and Anna chose a sit down dinner for their reception and just as they had hoped, The Heritage served up some wonderful food.

Guests ordered their choice of entrée and mains on the night and hotel staff delivered them in a special formation called the “worm” to serve them all at the same time. To follow, the cake was served as a dessert with ice cream and coulis.

The whole day was everything the couple had hoped for, but the speeches were a highlight. “My

Dad had “interviewed” Paul’s Dad to get some dirt on him and Paul’s brother and sisters “helped” with information too. Paul’s speech was funny and heartfelt and I spoke too, because I’ve always got something to say!” laughs Anna.

With Hanmer Springs as such a delightful setting, the photos by Emma Brittenden captured the essence of Paul and Anna’s day.

“There were photos we didn’t even realise she had taken and each time we look at them we see something we hadn’t noticed before.”

Guests loved the food and commented how nice it was to have the couple’s children and families so involved and how touching the speeches were, “so there is not a single thing we would have done differently” say Anna and Paul.

Davis Bridal 237 Brougham Street (Opposite Sydenham Park) Christchurch 03 343 3652

Sizes 2 to 30

House of Kavina Ltd 335 South Road Caversham, Dunedin 03 487 6497 Brides on Thorndon Cnr Customhouse Quay and Brandon Street Wellington 04 472 4717 Churchwood Bridal 44 Currie Street New Plymouth 06 757 5503 Bridal Studio The Chancery Building 12 Ashley Street Palmerston North 06 357 4923

VE8213X

Vanilla Bridal 721a Cameron Road Tauranga 07 579 4452 Bridal Gallery Shop 115a Centre Place Mall, (Upstairs), Victoria Street Hamilton 07 834 1237 Felicitys Bridal 92 Albert Street, Auckland City 09 303 4858

Phone: 09 238 0048

|

www.venusgowns.co.nz

24 With This Ring

ADVERTORIAL

Davis Bridal Specializing in beautifully crafted gowns for brides and bridesmaids, Davis Bridal offers quality that is evident in the selection of gowns displayed on mannequins throughout the spacious store.

Davis Bridal has been in the bridal business for more than 30 years and believes that the new 2015 season gowns are some of the most feminine and beautiful they have seen.

Styles come and go but the current resurgence of “a bit more cover” with illusion necklines, cap sleeves, longer lace sleeves and full ball gown skirts are just so elegant and beautiful.

VW8713

VW8717

VW8713

For those who want a slightly different look for their reception, there are now full lace bodices that can be removed to reveal a sexy strapless gown, and still popular, are the figure hugging trumpet styles and relaxed chiffon designs particularly for beach weddings Inspired by the world’s hottest red carpet trends, Davis Bridal has new season styles in from Stella York and their bridesmaid range, Sorella Vita including the new “Ombre” colour way & the popular “Maid your Way” convertible dress in soft flowing tulle. It’s the perfect way to mix up different looks to enhance each bridesmaid’s unique personality and style. Most styles are available in cocktail and full length.

Davis Bridal also has a large range of Venus bridal and bridesmaid gowns, Venus ‘Exclusive and Private Collections’ are couture, readymade gowns of timeless elegance and Venus Woman is a lovely plus size range with superb

corsetry and styling. Davis Bridal is the exclusive Canterbury stockist of Venus.

Debbie, manager of Davis Bridal advises brides to book a consultation at least 6 months in advance of their wedding date. While there is a $30 fee for a consultation it is credited towards the deposit on your chosen gown.

Davis Bridal consultants are also experienced dressmakers, completing all your fittings or alterations on site and they will securely store your gown from when it is chosen until your wedding.

Appointments for consultations are welcomed at Davis Bridal, 237 Brougham Street, (opposite Sydenham Park) phone 343 3652.

The shop is open Monday to Friday 9am – 5.30pm and Saturdays 10 – 1pm by appointment.

&

Sorella Vita

at

Davis Bridal

237 Brougham St | Ph 343 3652 | www.davisbridal.co.nz

26 With This Ring

PHOTOS BY: DEVIN HART THE VERTICAL LINE

The Big Day IN AUCKLAND

When Jessica and Mehulji married last summer, they wanted the focus of their wedding to be on family and friends. “All the decisions needed to reflect and acknowledge our Kiwi and Indian cultural backgrounds and embrace our families. We wanted to be authentic but not too self important, so we wanted colour and fun too” says Jessica.

Immediately after New Year the couple set the November date of the wedding and chose the Soljans Estate Winery in Kumeu as their venue. Surrounded by 55 close friends and family, the ceremony was held on the lawn where the pergola was draped with a red sari for simple decoration.

The ceremony was jointly taken by two celebrants; Jessica’s brother in law Jamie and friend Sharon, who “helped us to own the ceremony and reflect our families and the life we were building together.” Mehulji’s sister Nimeesha also read a cool Bob Marley quote which summed up “what we are about, being real and not shying away from the hard stuff ” says Jessica.

Choosing a wedding dress is often a dilemma, but for Jessica it proved more complicated because “I was conscious of how I would look visually alongside the boys wearing their traditional clothes.”

A white dress didn’t appeal and bridal shops didn’t really cater for

There is nothing Jessica and Mehilji would have done differently – “we made the right choices for the right reasons at the right time.”

many alternatives, so Jessica went looking at evening gowns instead.

The result was a gown of gunmetal grey sequinned material with an off the shoulder neckline and tiny fishtail train. “I loved the unusual cut and colour of the material and I knew immediately it would work as it reflected all the other colours around me. Mehulji and the girls wore white and the boys wore red Kurta Pajama, traditional Indian clothes made of silk and shoes called Mojari.”

The wedding ceremony was followed by dinner and dancing and food was a key aspect of planning the reception. Because Mehulji’s family are Hindu and vegetarian, the couple chose a

buffet so that there were options to suit all their guests. They also had a cake to uphold New Zealand traditions, although the carrot flavour, Mehulji’s favourite, was less traditional!

“I was quite nervous about the day, so I think being married and having the ceremony completed was great, then we could really enjoy having our family and friends all in one place at one time. That part was the best.”

There is nothing Jessica and Mehilji would have done differently – “we made the right choices for the right reasons at the right time.”

OR

Keep Long

With This Ring 27

Choosing the optimum bridal hairstyle will depend on the length and texture of your hair as well as the shape of your face and the style of your gown. If you want a style that’s different or more elaborate than your everyday look, you will need to plan ahead, especially if your preference involves growing your hair longer or evening out previous layers or colours.

Collect some magazine pictures of styles you like to make it easier for your stylist to achieve it for you. Discuss whether it suits the formality of the wedding, the time of day and the location. A loose flowing style can look great, so long as it’s not a windy day. Wind is the enemy of your hair!

Your hairstylist will also know whether the style you like is suited to your hair. She may suggest extensions or hair pieces to provide extra length or volume, but you will need to decide whether the cost and time is worth it. Ideally you want a style that can be done easily on the day and will stay in place all day.

Current style trends include braiding which can be achieved with a variety of hair lengths.

Braiding keeps hair secure and can be incorporated into many different styles including the popular and romantic loose “up do.”

To get your hair in good condition for the wedding, have regular cut and conditioning treatments. Don’t experiment with new colours and products immediately before the big day in case of allergic reactions or colour disasters. Smoothing treatments can resist humidity and make your hair frizz free and for healthy glossy hair invest in quality shampoos and products that are paraben free.

Before the wedding have a “trial style” with your hairdresser complete with the head gear you plan to wear whether it is a veil, hat, flowers, garland or barette. On the day of the wedding, if your hairstylist is coming to you at home or at a wedding venue, make sure they have all the facilities they need to create the style you have chosen. Allow adequate time for your hairstyling and any other members of the wedding party having their hair done too.

Gloss & Shine

There’s nothing lovelier than glossy shiny hair, especially for the bride. However modern colour, curling or straightening treatments and frequent washing with chemical-laden products often rob hair of natural oils, leaving it dry and lustre-less.

If you are really serious about shiny glossy tresses, you need to treat your hair from the inside.

Healthy hair is the result of internal nourishment, which is all about a balanced diet containing relevant vitamins, trace elements and proteins.

PHOTO BY: DEVIN HART THE VERTICAL LINE

CUT LOOSE

Sunflower, pumpkin and flax seeds plus Omega 3 and iron in salmon, tuna and sardines help keep the scalp healthy which in turn promotes healthy hair growth.

Whole grains in bread and cereals are rich in B vitamins, silica and zinc, which are important in combating hair loss, hair breakage and the distressing complaint of alopecia.

Zinc, iron, selenium and B12 are also healthy hair components and together with extra protein, can be found in shellfish, avocado and eggs.

Soils in Canterbury are very low in

selenium so even a small increase in selenium intake from nuts can be beneficial in reducing hair loss and breakage.

Improve the care of your hair externally by pampering it with deep conditioning and massaging the scalp. Invest in quality products that are ideally organic and chemical free, but try to resist washing too often. Dry hair naturally sometimes rather than using a dryer every time it’s washed and have your hair cut regularly, even if you plan to grow it for a particular bridal style.

28 With This Ring

THE RETURN OF

the Snood

Hair snoods in various styles have been around for centuries. In Medieval times wealthy women wore the decorative hairnets to contain their hair beneath elaborate head-dresses.

In the Victorian era fine hair nets covered a bun to keep it in place under a cap or bonnet.

But hair snoods found their way back into fashion with a vengeance in the 1940’s. During the Second World War they were a functional way of securing hair safely for women working in factories or on machines.

Knitted or crocheted they kept hair neat when money for hairdressing was tight and hair products were scarce.

But once the fashion caught on and was seen in Hollywood movies, more glamorous snoods featured finer thread and were decorated with ribbons, diamante, pearl beads, feathers and artificial flowers.

The snood net was sewn onto a band of ribbon and pinned in place at the crown. Shoulder length hair was encased in the snood, while longer hair was coiled into a loose knot to fit into the fold of the snood at the nape of the neck. Hair in front of the snood was worn as a thick fringe or rolled, waved, pin-curled or occasionally permed.

The 1940’s hair snood is enjoying a comeback for those who love that vintage era and is easily adapted for an exquisite wedding accessory by making a snood of fine silk threaded crochet, lace or tulle embellished with crystals, beading or sequins.

Cowl Snoods are a continuous loop of scarf worn around the neck or as a loose hood. Introduced centuries ago in winter climates they were made of fur or thickly knitted wool but are currently in fashion once more.

They can also make a stylish statement for a winter wedding using velvet, fur, merino or angora.

Alternatively for a summer wedding an exquisite cowl snood can be created of lace, beaded chiffon or embroidered tulle and be worn in lieu of a traditional veil.

With This Ring 29

Catwalk

COLOURS, CARDYS

and Cover-ups

PHOTOS BY CATWALKER / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

From beaded belts to metallic lace, it’s all shimmer and shine this season!

You’ll see frills, froth and feathers and fabrics lustred and encrusted, high octane sparkle, wedding worthy drama and genuine glamour among a myriad of styles.

Colours return from white through to blush encompassing champagne, ivory, ice, blue, silver and latte. Go vintage with antique rose, blush pink, sparkling

champagne, or magnolia cream.

Choose tradition or edgy with accents of black, or sophisticated sparkle in silvery ice.

Skirts maybe full of floaty chiffon, sleek satin elegance, mermaid or tiered. There are drop-waisted gowns of voile and silk and lace overlays shot with sparkle and crystal.

You’ll find elegant gowns that just brush the floor, waltz length fullness and cocktail classics.

Waists are defined by ruching and sashes, peplums are new and belts feature jewels, beading, buckles and shine. Bodices

shimmer with metallic lace, sequins and crystal. Bare backs are embellished, lacy or sheer and necklines are sweetheart, jewel or boat line. Sleeves return whether long, cap, lace, sheer or off-theshoulder elegance.

Gloves also return, whether retro sheer ones that end at the wrist, long lacy and fingerless styles or classical above the elbow gloves to wear with long sleek gowns.

Cover Up with a classic! Befrilled, appliquéd, fur or feathers, capes, boleros, shrugs, cloaks and wraps are all there this season.

Aside from keeping you warm if

the weather turns sour, they are a brilliant accessory for the bride and her bridal party.

Even the cardy is cool this season – but nothing like your grandma’s twinset!

Gentle fluffy angora, supersoft mohair, elaborate lacy knitted or crocheted patterns are all wedding worthy. Ramped up with ribbon, appliqué, sequins, beading, pearls, appliqué or beautiful buttons and bows they work with fine gowns and funky winter wedding fashion for you and your attendants.

Stepping With This Ring 31

OUT

Finding the right shoes to offset the design of your gown will depend on the formality of your wedding and the fit of your foot!

Shoe styles come and go, but your choice of footwear can help you minimise or maximise your height, be chosen to suit the theme or the season, be low key or low heeled, provide sassy elegance or a bold fashion statement.

Shoes are on show at your wedding so let yourself go with luxurious silk, satin, leather or manmade materials.

Treat yourself to a pair from a dedicated wedding shoe specialist or find a simple court shoe and individualise them with buttons, bow, buckles and bling. Alternatively have shoes dyed to mix or match with the colour theme of your wedding.

A myriad styles lets you choose the best option to complement your wedding gown and those of your attendants; slides, sandals, sling-backs, peep toes, Mary Janes, buckled, laced, ankle strapped or a Parisien ankle boot for vintage elegance.

PLATFORMS AND WEDGES let you walk tall STILLETTOS AND STACK HEELS give you

height and elegance but can be hard on the feet over several hours. Use gel inserts to ease the ball of the foot and for stability on uneven ground or the dance floor, choose thicker stack heels over stilettos.

KITTEN HEELS are low,

ideal for very tall brides and easy to manage for those not used to treacherous high heels!

They are more comfortable yet they still provide an elegant leg line when worn with short dresses as well as extra height for long gowns.

with confidence but choose carefully - some styles can look very clunky and inelegant.

With extra depth to the sole of the shoe, platforms are a good disguise for shorter brides while wedge heels give you a flat sole that won’t slip.

BALLET FLATS are currently in style with numerous colours and fabrics on show including patents, florals, buckles and bling. They offer welcome comfort without losing glamour and can be ideal for tall brides and members of the bridal party. Children’s ballet flats are perfect for flower girls and junior bridesmaids too.

JANDALS AND SANDALS are the ideal

footwear for a beach wedding they are cool, comfortable and easily emptied of sand! There is great variety and current styles are particularly decorative with sparkles, flowers and pretty summery colours.

But if you are showing off your shoes, make sure your feet are in good shape too; remove roughened skin, treat any infections, massage with foot lotion and keep nails cut and shaped. Feel for those feet and prepare them for a day on deck; paint them with pretty polish, pamper them with a foot bath whenever they are tired or aching and wear in those wedding shoes before you wear them on the day.

32 With This Ring

Intimate Aroma

There’s nothing more personal than a wedding, so why not pamper yourselves with specially chosen fragrances for your special day and let them add to your memories.

French Perfumiers believe fragrance should be intimate, with a soft alluring aroma that can only be detected up close and personal.

Of all our senses, smell is remembered the longest and the most vividly. The oldest commercially produced fragrance is the German “Eau de Cologne” marketed as “4711” to this day and still sold popularly among over 700 new perfumes which are developed every year.

When choosing a wedding fragrance consider the season, time of day and ensure the flowers in your bouquet are not in conflict with the perfume you are wearing.

A particular perfume may delight you in the bottle, but smell quite different on your skin. This is due to the level of acidity or alkalinity in your skin. So choose carefully and if a perfume you like still seems too strong, try the lighter eau de toilette version.

FRAGRANCE FOR THE GROOM

Perfumes are classified according to their major extracts. Among the four main fragrance families, men’s fragrances by-pass floral accents in favour of traditional woody and fougere aromas such as Faberge Brut and Guy Laroche’s Drakkar Noir. However new categories have emerged in the last 20 years including aquatic/oceanic and fresh citrus scents which are found in many contemporary fragrances for men. Like selecting a wine, choose the one you like best, go light fragrance rather than too strong and stick with the same fragrance for other toiletries to avoid aromas which may compete.

FRAGRANCE FOR THE BRIDE

There are 4 main “families” of fragrance; floral, woody, oriental and citrus. Florals are the most popular and because of the many flower scents available, they can range from delicate to bold. Woody perfumes incorporate cedar, pine and sandalwood and are often favoured in winter. Oriental fragrances appear sensual and use exotic musk, amber and vanilla to produce strong notes. Citrus perfumes are fresh and light and ideal for daytime and summertime.

AROMATHERAPY Weddings can be stressful, but aromatherapy can help creating an atmosphere of calm and relaxation. The brain is influenced by aroma and aromatherapy uses fragrant essential oils found in plant extracts to enhance mood, health or well-being.” Infused, inhaled or used as massage or bath oils, specific aromas or blends are chosen for their particular qualities.

- Lavender, chamomile, almond - Frankincense, lavender - Ginger, peppermint, rosemary, lime - Lemon - Bergamot, rose, orange, jasmine - Laurel, orange, bergamot, cedarhas - Chamomile, bergamot, lavender - Geranium, frankincense, citrus, rose, sandalwood For celebration - Bergamot, orange, cypress, ginger, jasmine

To calm and relax To reduce anxiety & stress To energise To enhance mood To diffuse anger To enhance confidence To help insomnia For peace and happiness

BRINGING BACK

With This Ring 33

the Brooch What we all recognise as a brooch, started life as a metal pin or fibula designed to hold a garment closed before buttons, buckles or zips were invented. The earliest fibula was Bronze Age and was a practical fastener for a cloak or wrap.

Later, the fibula was embellished with patterns, enamel, stones and engravings as an early form of jewellery.

From 18th century it became fashionable to incorporate a portrait or lock of hair into the brooch which became a keepsake or expression of mourning.

Miniature portraits of loved ones were popularised by the silhouette style of the cameo brooch produced by ceramic companies like Wedgewood. By the 19th century brooches had become very delicate and crafted with filigree, petit point and fancy stones like turquoise and pearls in pave settings.

By the 1920’s brooches became very decorative. Often diamante was used in place of precious stones to make the brooch an affordable accessory for all and it became a standard item of the jewellery box up to the 1960’s when pop culture discarded it as old fashioned.

But brooches are definitely back! You’ll see them pinned to a hat, securing a funky pashmina or scarf, decorating a lapel or jazzing up shoes, bags or belts and even used as a sparkling component of wedding bouquets.

Retro brooches from 1930’s and 40’s are increasingly sought after for their unusual settings. Set with stones that may be genuine or replica, the effect is the same - a bit of style and a bit of bling that all started with a simple metal pin.

PHOTO BY TEGAN CLARK PHOTOGRAPHY

AWAITING COPY Ad Number: AD00006get one shot ou only Artwork: {641CD953-592D-4929-92B4D320D118CE16} Size: 13.5x3 Description: Glen James Account: Colour: Filename: {641CD953-592D-4929-92B4D320D118CE16}

y

make it count!

1 Bridge Street, Nelson (03) 548 4523 | 0800 GLENJAMES (453652) www.glenjames.co.nz

34 With This Ring

HOLD ONTO

Your Hat

Hats were once an essential feature of gentlemen’s attire and offered way more variety than the baseball cap or beanie that is seen today.

But hats are enjoying a modern comeback both for practical reasons and seasonal fashion and are often chosen for weddings whether they are traditional, retro, vintage, informal, or outdoors.

THE TOP HAT

Formal weddings revel in the traditional style of “top hat and tails.” The hat is known for its distinctive tall cylindrical shape, flat top and stiff brim. Traditionally made in black or grey velour, it is fashion etiquette to wear it with matching gloves.

THE BOWLER HAT OR DERBY This oval hat with a rigid crown and modelled brim was made popular in the 19th century by the English Earl of Derby, hence its name.

Traditionally the bowler is worn with a pin striped suit.

THE PORK PIE

A felted hat with a shallow crown and turned up brim that replicates the shape of an English pork pie. Suits an informal style of dress but doesn’t suit all face shapes.

THE TRILBY HAT OR HOMBURG

The Trilby has a similar shape to a Fedora but has a much wider brim, while the elegant, expensive Homburg has a more tapered crown. Popular in the 1920’s to 1950’s it’s a hat for lovers of retro style but best suited to cooler seasons.

THE FEDORA

A style of hat associated with the 1950’s the Fedora has a triangular crease in the crown, a narrow brim and is made in a variety of fabrics from felted wool, to cotton or straw. The Fedora is popular in New Zealand for both guys and girls and suits dressy and informal wedding outfits and almost any season.

THE PANAMA HAT

The Panama is a summer version of the Trilby made of white stiffened cotton or mesh with a coloured hat band. Worn for decades by men as a sun hat, it also became part of summer school uniforms for boys and girls until the 1960’s. The Panama is ideal for outdoor or beach themed weddings.

THE NEWSBOY CAP

A wide panelled fabric crown over a reinforced visor or peak, the Victorian era newsboy cap in traditional checks, tweed or twill has returned for informal weddings.

THE BOATER

A flat topped wide brimmed straw hat made fashionable in the early 1900’s, the summer boater was often worn by men with a striped blazer and white. It is ideal for shading the sun and for wearing to vintage or garden weddings.

On Your Feet Choosing the right shoes for the groom, best man and groomsmen depends largely on the style of the wedding and the colour of their suits. While black lace-ups are the most versatile and conventional shoes, they are not the only fashion you could choose.

Black shoes are considered ideal with dinner suits, dress suits, morning suits and dark custom made suits. But with the current popularity of navy and grey attire for grooms and their wedding party, tan leather and brown brogues are making a statement to go with them.

For less formal weddings, there’s often an opportunity to be bold with bright boots, sneakers or loafers.

Whatever the choice, the groom’s shoes should be clean, polished and presentable and NEVER scuffed and worn with fraying laces. If the shoes are leather, use shoe trees to keep their shape, prevent creasing and air them when you are not wearing them. Polish regularly with the relevant coloured polish to condition the leather and retain water proofing and for quick touch-ups use an instant wax sponge.

Fashion etiquette suggests dress socks should match the colour of the trousers but for fun, wedding day hosiery is sometimes a chance to challenge convention with rebellious colours, funky patterns or novelty socks.

With This Ring 35

ADVERTORIAL

A ring is the symbol that captures the magic of the day for a lifetime.

At Filigree we pride ourselves on creating rings of distinction that will stand the test of time for many reasons; outstanding design, handmade construction and the use of highest quality materials.

Because we believe in finding the best solution for each individual we offer a free design service and will work with you to create pieces that will either reflect a combination of elements that you admire or incorporate ideas and/or designs you have formulated yourself. This process results in a beautiful ring that perfectly reflects the wearer’s taste and style.

An excellent jeweller has to have the ability to design a ring

that is not only beautiful but has good proportions, suits the wearer and is made with the highest level of expertise. The best way to understand this is to try on a number of rings, feel the weight of the ring, see the clarity of the diamonds and view the styles on offer. Anyone trying on Filigree rings will quickly be able to establish the extraordinary design and quality of the jewellery.

We manufacture in-house rather than import our rings, therefore we can make your desired ring to suit any budget and special requirements. We are experts at finding ways for you to have your dream ring without compromise.

Filigree Fine Jewels create rings that are truly unique pieces to wear with pride and will be heirlooms of the future.

36 With This Ring

NOTHING LESS THAN

PHOTO BY: CHARLOTTE SOWMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

P

Perfection

erfection - in a wedding ring, you want nothing less. Polished Diamonds on New Regent Street deliver that perfection. The award-winning, manufacturing jeweller uses architectural CAD to model your ring so you can see how it will actually look.

The boutique design studio can create his and hers rings, Just clothing fashions or jewellery styles come gemstones simple gold or also platinum withlike diamonds, and go.

Except the enduring popularity rings.

In fact, any for style and any material can be of the incorporated into your rings.engagement rings are classic diamond solitaire, Add in workshop-direct constantly re-invented with different metals, settings, valuestones and you have highest cuts, and the size of the band. The result is quality craftsmanship at infinite and impressive variety, the reality is finding it affordable prices. hard to choose the ring you’ll wear forever!

Your uniquely designed and ring is futureIfengineered you are overwhelmed by the thousands of designs you can view on proofed and by a at jewellery stores, narrow down the line, in cataloguesbacked or on display lifetime guarantee. choice by deciding what aspects of ring designs you like most.

Ring the Changes

WEDDING RINGS WEDDING RINGS Perfection Made Possible

Design your own Wedding ring

STONES:

CUTS:

Are diamonds the only stones for you or do you like coloured gems too? As well as white diamonds, Australia’s rare Argyle diamond is pink, you may favour one of the “big three” – sapphires, rubies or emeralds, the rich purple of an amethyst or get creative with lesser known gems like aquamarine and topaz.

Cut colour clarity and carat determine the quality of the gem(s) in your ring. Lapidary refers to the various techniques the craftsman jeweller uses to enhance the gem’s style, shape or brilliance. Popular “cuts” include the square “princess,” a round, oval or pear shaped “brilliant”; the pointed oval marquise cut or the current large vintage style “cushion cut.”

SETTINGS: Is the solitaire your ultimate ring, do you prefer a row of stones or a cluster with a larger central stone? Your preference will often determine the style of setting.

PRONG – the stone(s) are held in place by curved prongs that allow light to shine through and increase the sparkle.

CHANNEL – the stones are set flush between two strips of metal, increasing security and preventing extra wear over the years.

PAVE – is popular for its extra sparkle which occurs because the ring’s surface is covered in lots of tiny stones.

BEZEL – often used for large stones, the gem is encircled by metal or “rub over” rim that protects the edges of the stone.

METALS: Gold has always been favoured for its value and longevity but platinum and white gold have both been very popular recently.

The interest in vintage styled jewellery has seen the return of rose gold as well as the use of mixed metals.

MATCHING: Your engagement ring will need to be matched with a wedding ring in complementary style, colour and shape. Modern styles often include wedding bands set with stones and are frequently designed as a “set.”

Always purchase from a reputable jeweller, get certificates of valuation and always insure your rings against loss and theft.

With This Ring 37

ADVERTORIAL

Westende TO LOVE AND TO CHERISH

For all the important jewellery moments in your life, to say “Will you marry me?”, “I do” or “I love you”, Westende Jewellers can provide you with the expertise, craftsmanship and service necessary to choose the perfect piece to cherish forever.

Westende Jewellers has been family owned and operated in Christchurch for almost 50 years. Now well established at their Colombo Street store in Sydenham, they enjoy welcoming new and long standing customers to the elegant and sophisticated space they have created.

For engagement and wedding rings the selection is superb with a variety of different metals, stones and settings on display.

While the classic diamond solitaire still out-sells other engagement ring designs, the current popularity of white gold, platinum and palladium settings provide a “modern twist” to the traditional favourite.

A recent addition to Westende’s diamond section

is the remarkable “Astralis” diamond selection. With 89 facets, 32 more than a conventional cut, the Astralis Round Brilliant diamond is “beauty unlocked” and features a visible 8 point star. The creation of Gabi Tolkowsky, one of the world’s most celebrated diamond cutters, these diamonds are simply stunning and carry his signature on the girdle of every stone.

Contemporary wedding rings are often set with stones too and specifically designed to complement the engagement ring as a set. Westende Jewellers has over 300 styles of New Zealand made wedding rings on display in store while the full range is available to view online.

“Anything available in yellow gold is also possible in white gold, rose gold, platinum or palladium metal” says Andrew. For men, the traditional yellow gold band is often surpassed in favour of white metals or titanium, enhanced with stones, patterns or engraving. Alternatively they can create a custom-made design according to the customer’s price

AWAITING COPY Ad Number: MS1566 Artwork: MS1566 Size: 6.4x6 over 300 wedding Description: WESTENDE JEWELLERYS rings on display Account: Colour: F Filename: MS1566

range and preferences, including the currently popular vintage look.

Westende also offers lay-by on purchases for 3months and finance is available for up to 48 months. Customers can also benefit from GST-free sales if they are departing Christchurch or Auckland on international flights and their purchases can be picked up at the airport.

In addition to engagement and wedding rings, Westende Jewellers also has a fine selection

of gifts for the wedding party such as watches, pearls, earrings and bracelets, including Kagi, Karen Walker, Andrea Moore and Endless designer jewellery.

Since the earthquakes, heirloom and antique jewellery has been particularly treasured and Westende Jewellers offer an extensive range of Vintage Antique jewellery for sale.

They can also restore items or remodel existing pieces into a new setting to ensure further longevity.

Tying the Knot...

Modern

WESTENDE JEWELLERS 421 Colombo Street, Sydenham www.westendejewellers.co.nz Telephone: (03) 366-5475

and Vintage

38 With This Ring

Bling It! Bling is “in” whether you favour jewellery that is traditional or modern. Choosing some sparkling accessories for your wedding should depend on the style of the gown and your personal preference, but care should be taken not to spoil the overall effect with too much detail.

If the bridal gown is very elaborate, keep jewellery more minimal or of simple design.

Strapless and low backed gowns lend themselves to a necklace and “up do” hairstyles offset earrings beautifully. If the gown itself is very simple you can bring on the bling with a sparkly belt, a bracelet that jingles with charms, some diamond dazzle earrings, vintage look marquisite comb to secure your hair or veil or even some sassy bejewelled shoes.

A bride may wish to buy special jewellery for herself or her attendants to wear on the day.

Modern crystal jewellery provides alluring shimmer and shine without breaking the bank.

Pearls are an enduring favourite and offset the current simplicity of wedding gown designs to perfection.

But for a new take, try a necklace of large pearls, a wide choker or a single beautiful pearl on a chain ribbon or collar. Alternatively go vintage with a long string of pearls knotted at the front in 1920’s style, or draped dramatically down a low backed gown.

For some brides there may be heirloom items of particular significance. Jewellers can reset stones and re-work settings into modern designs if you wish or you can wear your antique and retro jewellery to complement your gown and recapture the style of a previous era.

Basic Black

Onyx is a variety of the chalcedony stone and forms in alternating parallel bands.

While we recognise onyx as a black stone, it can also be white, purple or shades of red (sardonyx).

While black onyx forms naturally, its marble variations have been less sought after than pure black. Since Roman times the stone has been treated with acids or boiled in a sugar solution to remove the undesirable colours within it.

Known by the Ancient Egyptians, Greeks, Romans, onyx was said to have protective properties soldiers often carried it to guard against death or give them courage in battle. The stone has also had a long history of use in stone carving and jewellery. Black onyx figurines were found in Egyptian tombs and centuries of Mexican

silversmiths have inset onyx into jewellery for both men and women.

In more modern times, onyx was used for the carving of cameo silhouette jewellery in the 18th century Regency period and then enjoyed special popularity during the Art Deco era of the 1920’s and 1930’s. High fashion featured dramatic black jewellery including necklaces, bracelets, rings, drop earrings and watch bands. For men, onyx was often used for the backdrop of the initial on a signet ring.

Today the interest in vintage and art deco styles has seen resurgence in the popularity of onyx whether genuinely antique, replica or contemporary. It lends itself beautifully to settings in platinum, titanium and silver, combines well with the sparkle of diamonds and contrasts exquisitely with pearls.

With This Ring 39

Canterbury Jewellers PROVEN QUALITY AND CRAFTSMANSHIP

Canterbury Jewellers has earned a reputation for the fine craftsmanship and has been one of Christchurch’s leading repair, alteration and handcrafted jewellery manufacturers since their inception 35 years ago.

Some couples will find their perfect engagement ring already made, some choose to mix and match elements from various designs and others want to start for scratch and have their rings designed and handmade”

says Jason Baylis of Canterbury Jewellers.

A common misconception is that hand-crafted pieces are an unaffordable luxury for most people. However, while they may be higher priced than the average mass-produced, imported jewellery pieces, a locally handcrafted piece will bear the mark of quality and the craftsmanship to become a treasured heirloom piece.

Responding to an increasing desire from clients for a more

personalized look, Canterbury Jewellers are fully equipped to create something incredibly unique. It may traditional with lots of fine detail or bold and modern. With their experienced and fully-qualified team of on-site artisans, clients are invited to contribute as little or as much as they like to the creative design process, and are encouraged to visit at various stages of manufacture.

Ideally engagement and wedding rings should be made

at the same time to ensure a complementary style and perfect fit. But for those who already have an engagement ring that doesn’t lend itself well to any of the ready made wedding rings, Canterbury Jewellers can make one to suit.

For sparkle that will last a lifetime, call Canterbury Jewellers on 03 366 7737 or visit www.canterburyjewellers.co.nz for their comprehensive range of services, online catalogue and inspirational designs.

AWAITING COPY Ad Number: MS1575 Artwork: MS1575 Size: 13.5x6 Description: CANTERBURY JEWELLERS Account: Colour: F Filename: MS1575

Leading the way in design and repair of exquisite jewellery

Unit 8, 73 Peterborough Street, Central City, Christchurch P. 366 7737 E: enquiries@canterburyjewellers.co.nz

40 With This Ring when exercising, it clogs the pores and impedes the release of sweat from the body.

When washing your skin, avoid harsh scrubs in favour of All brides have a horror of those with glycolic or salicyclic walking down the aisle with zits, formulas and don’t exfoliate too just when they are supposed often. Remove make-up at night to look their most radiant and and allow your skin to breathe blemish free. Even if you are by going make-up free whenever usually zit free, there’s nothing like possible. Choose low fragrance the stress of a wedding to invite cosmetics, find brands that don’t skin breakouts and the anguish irritate your skin and cleanse, tone they cause. and moisturise every day.

Diet, stress, pollution, illness, In the course of a day you’ll hormones, allergies and some touch many things that are dirty medications can cause sebacceous – coins, telephones, door handles, glands in the skin to enlarge, computer keyboards, handrails, allowing bacteria to infect the etc. Keep your hands, glasses and gland and develop as a blemish. other possessions clean and try not How you care for your skin during to transfer bacteria by touching the weeks before the wedding are your face with dirty hands. key to staying blemish free.

If you do develop a blemish Keep your diet balanced or two, invest in some effective with plenty of fresh fruit and “spot busters” – a tea tree body vegetables, drink water in wash and spot gel or clear liquid preference to anything else and MediBac Breakout Control. Avoid avoid high sugar, fat and processed cream-based products which foods. Eat regularly so that the increase the oiliness of the skin, body and skin is well nourished NEVER squeeze a zit – because from within. you can cause scarring and just in Exercise improves circulation case, have a light concealer in your and digestion, removing waste wedding day make-up kit as extra from the cells and tissues via blemish insurance! sweating. Never wear make up

AVOIDING BRIDAL

Breakouts

AWAITING COPY Ad Number: MS1577 Artwork: MS1577 Just Beautiful NZ & Size: 13.5x3 Mary Kay Cosmetics Description: JUST BEAUTIFUL NZ Account: Beautiful skincare, beautiful make-up, Colour: F beautiful wedding Filename: MS1577

Expert Beauty Advice STYLES COME AND GO So avoid quirky or edgy make up trends that will easily date.

Instead, aim for a low key classic style on your wedding day that will look timeless in your photos for decades to come.

TWO TONE Use 2 lipsticks on your wedding day- a fresh lighter colour for the ceremony and a similar but darker tone for your evening reception.

MATCH YOUR FOUNDATION To avoid a skin colour variation between face, neck and body, match foundation to the skin tone of your décolletage rather than your face.

SHUN THE SUN Stay out of the rays before the wedding, but if you do require a sunburn rescue remedy apply aloe vera for soothing, Pure Vitamin E for healing and green-toned foundation to correct any redness.

SUPER NATURAL Apply make up in natural light to ensure it doesn’t look heavy, streaky or “caked on.” Choose light reflecting products for a fresh look and remember “less is more,” especially for outdoor and daytime weddings.

TONE DOWN THE TAN

PUFFY EYED DISGUISE Splash iced water on your face, lie down for 30 mins with teabags or cucumber slices over your eyelids or rest with a frozen eye mask to reduce puffiness. To disguise dark shadows, use a yellow-toned concealer.

If you want to look slightly bronzed and beautiful, exfoliate your skin then book in for a light spray tan.

But beware of over tanned orange!

Have a practice run to check the resulting tone looks natural against the shade of your gown.

MESSY MASCARA Tears, rain and perspiration can play havoc with mascara, so use one that is water proof and won’t run if you get a little emotional!

WAX WISELY If you plan to wax legs, underarm, bikini, lip or brows, don’t do it the day before the wedding. Sod’s law says you are bound to have a reaction, so allow at least a week for any irritation or redness to subside.

TOUCH UP

Have your mother or attendants ensure there’s a mini make-up kit on hand for touch ups to lips, eyes and face during the reception.

Other useful items include tissues, a nail file, deodorant, perfume and breath freshener.

AWAITING AWAITING COPY COPY Ad Number: Ad Number: MS1558 MS1558 Artwork: Artwork: MS1558 MS1558 Size: Size: 6.4x3 6.4x3 feeL wonderfuL Description: MARIESSA MARIESSA WADDINGTON Description: WADDINGTON Account: Account: with exquisite Colour: Colour: F F makeup and hair Filename: Filename: MS1558 MS1558

by Mariessa

Look Perfect

Mary Kay Cosmetics • Weddings • Special Occasions • Formals Spray Tanning • Hair Ups Jenna Brown (0211 635 374) Isabel Kirk (0211 258 052) Christchurch and South Island

www.mariessa.co.nz | 027 272 7772

With This Ring 41

DENTAL BRAVERY FOR A

Wedding Smile BEAUTY BENEFITS OF

Time Out You can let the planning of a wedding stress you out, or you can take time out for yourself and reap some beauty benefits both short and long term.

SLEEP ON IT

Regular sleep patterns are the best way to refresh mind and body. If sleep eludes you try some simple techniques to help you overcome insomnia; bathe before bed and use calming fragrances like lavender and bergamot; avoid late night snacks, coffee, alcohol or sugary drinks in favour of chamomile tea or milk; ensure your bed is warm and comfortable; try a fragrant herb pillow; remove mobile, laptop or ipad from the bedroom; don’t watch TV but have soothing music if it helps or read quietly as a precursor to sleep.

AROMATHERAPY is often

used in pre-wedding beauty treatment to calm and relax the bride and wedding party. The brain is influenced by aromas and aromatherapy is defined as “a form of alternative medicine that uses essential oils found in plant extracts to enhance mood, health or well-being.” Infused, inhaled or used as massage or bath oils, specific aromas or blends are chosen for their particular qualities.

HATHA YOGA

is the foundation of all yoga styles and incorporates postures, regulated breathing and meditation. It aims for calm, grace and control as various poses are performed and is a combination of low impact exercise and stress management techniques that may also help you unwind in preparation for sleeping.

SPA TREATMENTS

are a delightful way to improve your sense of well being. Day spa facilities and resorts have pamper packages that include specialized facials, organic peels and exfoliations, body scrubs and wraps, massage therapy, manicures and pedicures, waxing, makeup and tanning.

Some also offer a selection of medi-spa treatments including micro-dermabrasion and IPL for skin rejuvenation and hair reduction,

PAMPERING AT HOME

is an easy cost effective form of relaxation on your own or with your BFF. Set aside time-out for a foot spa, facial, hand and nail treatment, hair conditioning, body scrub and luxurious bath. Invest in some gorgeous products and fragrances, detox your body, free your mind of stressful thoughts and revel in an atmosphere of fragrance, calm and quiet.

There’s nothing like a wedding to get you thinking about your smile.

But if your teeth aren’t in good shape, you may not have the confidence to smile naturally and spontaneously. Modern dentistry can correct crooked, chipped or discoloured imperfections with a range of cosmetic treatments and products from whitening to orthodontics.

Teeth cleaning and whitening are easy options to enhance your smile and correct staining from coffee, red wine, smoking or inadequate brushing. Tooth coloured fillings can restore the look of a damaged tooth, protect it from decay and be almost undetectable.

For sensitive teeth due to worn enamel, gum disease or poorly positioned teeth that result in receding gums, treatments include fluoride and special toothpastes, invisalign devices, mouth guards to stop teeth grinding and dental hygiene appointments.

Custom made crowns and caps can cover an entire damaged tooth to restore and strengthen it without losing it to an extraction.

Bridges and veneers are also solutions for teeth that are damaged or out of alignment and dental

implants can replace teeth and their function just like natural teeth.

Straightening crooked teeth and correcting over or under bites is more complex and usually requires orthodontic treatment.

If braces are necessary, you will need a much longer term of treatment, although new “fast braces” can improve the appearance and create an even “line up” in months rather than years.

So while you are planning everything else for the perfect wedding, perhaps it’s time for some dental bravery and a make over or touch up for your teeth, so you can dazzle everyone with your smile on the big day.

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42 With This Ring

COLLARS

With the current interest in retro and vintage styles, accessorising the groom’s outfit will include attention to collars, cuffs and cravats.

PHOTO BY: TEGAN CLARK PHOTOGRAPHY

Cuffs & Cravats

CRAVATS

The cravat is a cross between a tie and a scarf and was considered the mark of a gentleman in the 18th and 19th centuries. Often made of silk and jacquard fabrics to mix and match with a buttoned vest or waistcoat, the cravat was designed to tuck perfectly into the neckline of a jacket or coat instead of a bulky scarf. Today the cravat is usually only worn with a morning suit for weddings and very formal occasions and features two main styles.

The plain silk or satin “Puff ” tie adds colour and luxury to the traditional grey or black suit. 3inches wide and 12inches long, the puff tie is attached to a narrow band which fits under the high or wing collar. The fold or “puff ” over the knot, is secured with a tie pin or stud with as much sparkle and bling as you like! The Ascot cravat was usually patterned, particularly in traditional paisley. Wider than the puff tie, it is tied loosely at the neck with the long ends tucked into the V of the vest.

The classic bow tie featured a narrow band to fit under a wing or a turn down collar, while the wider ends of the tie are formed into a neat bow over the top button of a

shirt. The western bow tie was a popular Victorian fashion and was tied in a loose bow with longer ribbon ends.

COLLARS

A simple white dress shirt may feature a variety of collar shapes to suit whatever degree of formality the wedding requires.

Wing tip and high stiff collars were traditionally worn with formal top hat and tails attire.

Both can accommodate a bow tie or a cravat, but the tips of the wing collar are folded over the tie beneath the chin while the high collar rests against the jawline.

The rounded banker or “Eton” collar was more informal and like the more modern pointed collar, the turn down style could be

worn with a Windsor knot tie or a bow tie.

Detachable collars are definitely vintage and sets of detachable collars were sold separately from the shirt which had a narrow neckline with front and rear neck studs to attach a clean collar. In the days when washing was a chore it was more convenient than laundering the entire shirt.

CUFFLINKS

Traditionally used to secure the buttonless cuffs of mens’ shirts, post war mass production of shirts included machine sewn buttons, so the use of

cufflinks declined.

However they have recently made a comeback as a distinctive fashion statement and feature anything from antique to ultra contemporary designs. Dress etiquette once demanded gold cufflinks be worn by day, silver in the evening and pearl for white tie occasions. There are two main styles of cufflinks; double panels linked by a bar or chain and a single panel with a swivel toggle to secure the cuff.

The decorative style of cufflinks often included inlays and gemstones and featured family emblems, monograms and logos, while today’s designs are colourful, frequently quirky and still an acceptable gift for the groom and his wedding party.

ALL

Suited Up THE MORNING SUIT

is the traditional and most formal attire for a daytime wedding. It comprises grey or dark striped trousers and a grey or black tailcoat with a vest, wing collar shirt and Windsor tie or cravat.

THE DINNER SUIT

is acceptable attire for formal afternoon/evening weddings.

Usually black, it is worn with a white shirt and bow tie – either black or coloured. In New Zealand the dinner suit is sometimes worn with a patterned silk waistcoat thus combining the formality of the morning suit and the dinner suit.

THE 3 PIECE SUIT

comprises trousers, waistcoat and jacket in the same fabric and can be teamed with a collar and tie or open necked shirt. It is a versatile suit with or without the jacket. For a wedding can be personalised for your groomsmen with different coloured shirts and ties and post-wedding is a useful business suit.

THE DOUBLE BREASTED SUIT

is ideal for the bulkier body shape and is currently popular again. Available in a variety of fabrics and colours it is a good business suit and ideal for a semi formal wedding worn with an open necked white, coloured or patterned shirt and a contemporary tie.

THE SLIM FIT SUIT

needs to be fitted correctly to look good. Consisting of trousers and single breasted jacket, the modern style is classy for a semi formal wedding and can be bought or custom made in a variety of fabrics to suit the season. Complemented by your choice of shirt style and colour with or without a tie this suit is also an all-occasion outfit after the wedding.

SO...

The later in the day, the more formal the wedding The more formal the wedding the more structured the suit The more fabric and colour choices for the suit the more informal the occasion If you are uncertain, go more formal than less formal for a wedding Whatever you wear make sure it FITS perfectly Black shoes are best unless the suit is brown

With This Ring 43

Grooms often have difficulty deciding on the “suit-ability” of their wedding attire. In New Zealand we are less formal than places like the UK, Europe and USA, but that doesn’t mean a suit is obsolete. If the wedding is formal and you are unlikely to wear a formal suit again, there is always the option to hire rather than buying one.

44 With This Ring

Bridesmaid Trends FROM PASTEL TO PURPLE

What’s Hot?

Whether you decide to have just your BFF as your only bridesmaid or a cluster of the closest in the clans as your attendants, you will want them fabulously gowned in the styles and shades that are exciting trends this wedding season.

There’s a rainbow of shades to suit your wedding colour theme, but try to choose those that flatter your attendants the most.

What’s Back?

PISTACCHIO reinvents green as a chic bridesmaid colour and replaces mint and emerald this season. It looks stunning with ivory, cream, peach and purple flowers or accessories.

MOCHA shades from latte through to dark chocolate return to favour and flavour, providing a flattering colour range for almost any skin colouring. A chic contrast with bridal cream or white, chocolate gowns are superbly complemented by variegated orchids and pink toned bouquets.

AUBERGINE has started to sideline last season’s choice of Royal Purple.

Less vivid but elegantly unusual, aubergine flatters pale and olive skins and can be worn by blondes, brunettes and redheads alike. It also looks spectacular with cream and green flowers and foliage.

What’s New?

What’s In?

BLUSH is the newest pink on the block. Barely beyond white, it’s delicate, pretty and summery and can suit any age if the gown style is appropriate.

Being so pale it’s more difficult to photograph and may need the colour of a bouquet to show it off.

AQUAMARINE retains its recent popularity. Ranging from cool blue to pale green tones, it flatters most colourings and epitomises summer and beach weddings.

It looks good in photos alongside bridal white.

PEONY AND STRAWBERRY have edged out hot pink this season but still offer vibrant pink and coral tones for sizzling summer and warm winter weddings. They suit pale and tanned colouring and any bridesmaid from flowergirl to Matron of Honour.

SAFFRON has overtaken lime and lemon yellow and offers a rich palette verging on earth and orange for summer weddings. It’s bold and bright but it won’t suit all hair and skin tones.

www.hannahclaire.co.nz Customisable bridesmaids dresses, handmade in CHCH, NZ

Dresses available from: the collective @ the colombo, chch,nz

wanderer @ the tannery, chch,nz

GLACIER GREY evokes soft, cloudy sophistication for summer or winter weddings.

Versatile colour that offsets the bride’s gown and looks spectacular with flowers of pink, red, orange or newly trending yellow.

LAVENDER with its close colour cousins lilac and wisteria, capture vintage style perfectly and remain a popular choice for summer and garden weddings. Think lavender and lace, antique white and rose flowers and high tea with fine china.

NAVY has overtaken black for elegance and provides the perfect foil for exquisite flowers and statement jewellery. Adaptable for long or cocktail length, navy can be suited to any season and flatters any size or body shape.

EVERETT COLLECTION / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

PHOTO BY: TEGAN CLARK PHOTOGRAPHY

With This Ring 45

46 With This Ring

ADVERTORIAL

WHO?

Smith & Boston: celebrating a decade of fine fashion!

Olive Hill and Ngaio Bell are the sisters behind the celebrated Smith & Boston label. The siblings opened their boutique in 2005, and this year they are proudly celebrating ten years of trading. Their gorgeous garments are a favourite of mothers of the bride and groom and have been worn to weddings throughout New Zealand and around the world.

WHAT? The Smith & Boston collection offers shapely dresses, tailored jackets and more in sizes 6 – 20. The range is 100% Canterbury made and produced in limited numbers. All pieces are crafted from quality fabrics, including luxurious silks and cottons.

Because items are sold individually, you can mix, match and choose sizes that fit your shape.

Smith & Boston also keep a wedding and event registry to prevent embarrassing double -ups at your event.

WHY? Smith & Boston’s reputation for outstanding service and customer care, along with their stunning designer clothing makes the boutique a MUST VISIT destination for any woman wanting something special to wear to an occasion. Smith & Boston staff members are experienced and discreet. Best of all, at Smith & Boston they help you to have fun!

WHEN? If you are the mother of the bride or the groom you will be wondering when to purchase your outfit. Smith & Boston advise shopping 6 – 8 weeks before the wedding; any earlier will not allow you enough time to meet fitness or weight loss goals, any later leaves little time to find matching accessories and/or shoes. The ultimate advice from Olive and Ngaio is to buy what YOU like.

Don’t waste time second guessing yourself. Once you have chosen your outfit keep it secret and arrive looking fabulous on the big day.

WHERE? The Smith & Boston boutique is located in the historic village of Prebbleton.You can find this little oasis of chic at number 6 in the traditional row of shops in the village.

If you rely on modern technology just enter 573 SPRINGS ROAD and you will discover the boutique is an easy 15 minute drive from Riccarton or 25 minute drive from Christchurch Airport. There is even FREE PARKING at the door.

SMITH & BOSTON your designer fashion destination

for sizes 6 - 20

SMITH & BOSTON Shop 6, 573 Springs Road, Prebbleton Village | Christchurch OPEN TuESday - SaTuRday

Ph: 03 349 5646 | www.smithandboston.co.nz

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MOTHER OF THE BRIDE

Fashion Adventure It is your daughter’s big day, but as the Mother of the Bride you are also in the spotlight.

Choosing what to wear can be a daunting process, especially if your lifestyle tends towards more casual clothing. But instead of feeling uncertain, checkout some simple guidelines before you go shopping, then treat it as a fashion adventure and enjoy.

•

•

•

•

• • • • • • • • •

• •

Dress for the formality of the wedding – long, short or cocktail length.

Consider an ensemble if the weather is changeable.

Choose 3 colours to start -1 you love, 1 you like &1 you’ve never tried.

Ensure your colours complement those of the wedding theme.

Avoid white and cream which are the Bride’s prerogative.

Look for simplicity and fabulous fit.

Avoid dowdy shades and frumpy shapes.

Select fabrics that won’t crease or mark easily.

Add a hat for more sophistication or an elegant hairstyle.

Be tasteful – not too short, too tight or too revealing.

Make sure the outfit’s comfortable to wear for several hours.

Experiment with lots of different styles.

Be guided by your designer, sales consultant or a trusted friend.

Accessorise after settling on your outfit.

Try key accessories that enhance rather than overwhelm your outfit.

PHOTOS SUPPLIED BY PARK AVENUE

Traditionally the Mother of the Bride chooses her outfit before the Mother of the Groom so try to confirm your length and colour selection early so she also has time to find her wedding day fashion.

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Lose 10 Years without Effort Most Mothers of the Bride or the Groom want to look healthy and youthful and sometimes go to exceptional lengths to do so for the wedding!

The idea of looking 10 years younger has plenty of appeal and it can be painless for you and your pocket, because it’s all about YOUR HAIR! Wearing the same hairstyle decade after decade is the most ageing thing you can do to yourself, but changing it is the quickest and most dramatic anti-ageing solution – if you dare. It doesn’t need to be a revolutionary change, but you should look at a reinvention of your preferred style every 5 years or so. Perhaps a different cut, some highlights or a more flattering colour.

Changes in weight can often change the shape of the face, so a hairstyle you may have previously overlooked could be more flattering now. But if you don’t want to go grey DON’T. Cover the greys by enhancing

YOU CAN LEAVE

Your Hat On Weddings are wonderful occasions to strut your stuff in a hat because even the simplest of outfits can be dressed up with magnificent millinery!

Whether you are the mother of the bride or the groom, one of the wedding guests, or the bride looking for an alternative to a traditional veil, a hat can add colour, style and allure.

Whether your hat is chosen from a range of ready to wear designs, or is specially created to match your outfit by a professional milliner, the choice is phenomenal. Alternatively you can purchase a simple unadorned hat from department stores, boutiques and even some pharmacy outlets, then let loose and decorate it with the extraordinary array of finery from haberdashery counters and craft shops.

As well as complementing the colour, length and style of

your outfit, a hat needs to suit your hairstyle and the shape of your face. The width, height and shape of the hat should also be in proportion to your hemline and your height – or lack of it! So it’s “try on” time to see what suits you best.

Ideally the outfit should be settled on before the hat, but like the chicken and the egg, you may fall in love with the hat first.

Hats cover a multitude of styles from the sheer wedding elegance of the wide brimmed look to the slightly flippant fascinator and everything in between; little 1920’s cloches, Jackie “O” pillboxes and sassy 40’s and 50’s veiled cocktail toques. As an alternative to a hat, art deco barettes and bands are currently popular.

Themed weddings also offer a funky opportunity for creative hats, recapturing the style of an era or the traditional elegance of top hat and tails. But whatever the style, be careful that your chosen hat will not hide or shade your face in the photographs.

your original natural colour with bolder tones than your original.

Enhance the original shade of your hair with bolder tones or strategic highlights to blend them in. But if you are blessed with silver hair rather than dull grey as you get older, celebrate silver with a sassy cut that oozes European sophistication.

Long hair can be ageing, depending on the way you wear it. Long, flat and grey will do nothing for you, so get some lift in the roots, cut it into a longish bob, colour it with courage and twist it into an elegant knot or chignon a la Hepburn or Grace Kelly – the 50’s has never been so fashionable.

Whatever you decide, make sure your hair is in the best condition possible and is expertly and regularly trimmed, cut and coloured. Rely on your hairstylist’s recommendations to make a change and give yourself plenty of time before the wedding to get used to any new style or change it again if you don’t like looking 10 years younger!

Special Occasions • Mother of the Bride or Groom • Bridesmaids, Bridal & Ballgowns • Races • Imported Hats & Fascinators • Exclusive Labels • Shoes, Bags & Jewellery • Sizes 6-24

* Exclusive Ballgowns, Bridesmaids & Bridal gowns can be ordered.

Your best dress address

PARK AVENUE Fashions

363 Lincoln Road (Moorhouse Ave end) Christchurch Parking alongside the Railway line www.parkavenue.co.nz

Ph 374 5858

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50 With This Ring

PROFESSIONAL

Planning all the components of a wedding can be stressful, so consider employing a wedding planner to do the hard work for you, especially if you are short of time, are living elsewhere or you are marrying in a country where you don’t speak the language.

Wedding Experts

Susannah Blatchford Photographer

Wedding planners are becoming more popular as busy bridal parties are often faced with a myriad of details and not enough time to research and arrange them. Dedicated organizers can be engaged to plan as much or as little of the wedding as you wish.

Perhaps you just need help with the ceremony or the reception, but if you prefer to leave everything in the capable hands of a professional wedding expert, they are worth their weight in organizational gold!

A Total Event Planner will source every aspect of organization from ordering invitations, receiving replies, arranging a celebrant, booking a venue, selecting menus, booking transport and flowers, contracting a band, finding a photographer and even making arrangements for your honeymoon.

kc kimchan.co.nz

www.kimchan.co.nz

Florist & Events Stylist We are available for you to call us, together we will walk you through all the steps to achieve your perfect day.

p: 021 122 4082 e: kim@kimchan.co.nz

AWAITING COPY Ad Number: MS1654 Artwork: MS1654 Size: 6.4x3 Description: COLLECTIVE CONCEPTS LTD Account: Colour: F CREATING YOUR PERFECT WEDDING Filename: MS1654

weddings by collective concepts www.weddingconcepts.co.nz www.weddingconcepts.co.nz

You may ask them to coordinate the table settings, decorations and seating, greet guests, liaise with the hotel or reception staff and keep everything running smoothly on the day. Some hotels and resorts have their own in-house wedding planner, but it is important that whoever you choose, they can manage your wedding unobtrusively, graciously and efficiently.

Partial Planners can offer custom made packages incorporating specific services for each wedding.

Some brides may need help with the big stuff like reception venues and menus, or coordination of all the small details as the big day approaches, or perhaps simply to keep everything running smoothly on the day of the wedding.

Overseas couples sometimes use a wedding stylist too.

Working closely with the planner who coordinates the various aspects of the wedding, the stylist creates the visual impact of the venue by “dressing” it according to your theme and choice of colours.

AWAITING COPY Ad Number: MS1579 Artwork: MS1579 Size: 6.4x3 Description: WEDDING PROFESSIONALS NZ PLANN Account: Colour: F Filename: MS1579 Luscious... Stunning designs & decor Outstanding... Seamless, stress free Versatile... Packages to suit all budgets Experienced... Years of proven expertise

T: 03 377 7800 M: 021 369 414

E: suzanne@weddingprofessionals.co.nz W: www.weddingprofessionals.co.nz

CHOOSING A

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Celebrant

HY

PHOTO BY TEGAN CLARK PHOTOGRAP

PERSONALISE • • • • •

Finding the right celebrant to conduct your wedding is not always easy.

If you are not planning a church wedding where the local minister will preside, you will need to engage a registered celebrant.

But… what do they do, what will they charge, will they help with writing vows, what are the legal requirements, will they accommodate your wishes,

Your Ceremony

Use existing vows but delete sentences you are uncomfortable with Write your own vows to promise what you believe in Use poems, prayers, music and blessings that express your philosophy of life Involve your guests in the ceremony Include customs and traditions that have meaning for your families; - Light candles - Take communion - Donate to a favourite charity - Remember absent friends

Debbie Moody Marriage/Civil Union Celebrant

can you meet them beforehand & do you like them?

A marriage celebrant is registered by the Dept Internal Affairs Births Deaths and Marriages to legally conduct wedding ceremonies. To find out about those in your area or the location where the wedding will take place, visit www.celebranz.org.nz Choose two or three to contact and discuss your wedding plans with them.

From their response you will

be able to decide who “fits” with your plans best and of course who is available for the date you have set. Expect fees of up to $500 for their services on the day.

Most celebrants like to meet the couple two or three times before the wedding to go through the ceremony and the vows they will make. Often they will be able to suggest appropriate readings, music or order of service if you are unsure about some details.

Tricia WarWick-Naziris Marriage Celebrant

Creating with you a personal service to reflect your love

021 143 9488 triciaandathawn@hotmail.com WWW.TriciaWarWick-NaziriscelebraNT.co.Nz

Ensuring you have the

Wedding day you desire Julie Lassen

Helping to make your day

‘Amazing’

debbie@amazingdays.co.nz | Phone 0274 314 967 PO Box 234, Hanmer Springs 7360

Marriage Celebrant Phone 337 8108 or 027 278 2248 julieL79@gmail.com Facebook Julie Lassen Celebrant

www.nzmarriages.co.nz

52 With This Ring

PHOTO BY SARAH CLEMENTS PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO BY CHARLOTTE SOWMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

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Your ceremony is the heart of the wedding and the reason for it. What, how and where you say your vows should be the most meaningful aspect of the day whether you choose a religious or secular marriage service.

A RELIGIOUS CEREMONY

Takes place in a house of worship according to the religious beliefs of the couple. They may be members of the local congregation or marrying in a different location.

The ceremony is usually structured to include traditions and customs of their faith.

AN INTERDENOMINATIONAL WEDDING

May be held in an “all faiths” chapel with the minister or celebrant of your choice and include religious and non religious traditions and blessings.

A CIVIL CEREMONY

Generally takes place at a registry office, town hall or embassy. It is non religious, is officiated by a Registrar of Births Deaths and Marriages, or Judge or a Justice of the Peace and includes a simple exchange of vows with a minimum of 2 witnesses.

A SECULAR WEDDING

Is non religious and usually conducted by a registered marriage celebrant. The venue may be formal or informal, indoors or out, large or small. The couple are free to adhere to traditional formalities or customise their wedding as informally as they wish.

SAME SEX CEREMONY

This may range from a commitment ceremony or civil union to a wedding service depending on the law of the location where it is held. If same sex marriage is legalised and accepted by the church the couple may religious wedding, or opt for a secular ceremony.

A MILITARY WEDDING

Contains many formalities and traditions and includes the wearing of a full dress uniform for enlisted members of the wedding party.

The couple may be married by an armed forces chaplain, or participate in a civil ceremony, but rituals usually include a special salute from guests who are also enlisted personnel.

ELOPEMENTS

May be carefully planned “getaway” weddings or spontaneous ceremonies once the couple reaches their destination. The marriage usually takes place with few guests or none at all. In the past Gretna Green in Scotland was popular for elopements because you could marry at 16 there without the parental permission required in England!

DOUBLE WEDDINGS

Are quite rare because most couples want their own celebration, but for siblings or close friends who would be inviting many of the same guests, a double wedding can be fun and financially sensible. Couples can share the ceremony or have individual rituals and celebrants followed by a shared reception.

DESTINATION WEDDINGS

These are exceptionally popular and usually include all inclusive wedding and honeymoon packages for the couple and a holiday for their guests. Often held in in picturesque locations in the same country or overseas, the number of guests is usually quite small due to cost and travel time, but allows an intimate wedding with close family and friends.

OVERSEAS WEDDING

Held in an overseas destination, couples need to comply with all legal requirements for marriage in that country. It may include a period of pre-wedding residency, a civil and a religious ceremony, extra paperwork and the services of a dedicated planner if there’s a language barrier.

A SHIPBOARD CEREMONY

These occurred more frequently when long journeys were by ship not aeroplane, but the popularity of cruise travel has seen increased interest in shipboard wedding. The ceremony is conducted in port by the ship’s captain, the chaplain or a celebrant who comes on board to officiate. Most couples continue afterwards on a honeymoon cruise.

54 With This Ring

Dream it

& theme it MAN PHOTOGRAPHY

SOW PHOTO BY CHARLOTTE

Themed weddings are very popular overseas, often involving guests in a costumed production like a Hollywood movie set. While less prevalent in New Zealand, the idea of modestly theme-ing your wedding is catching on. So try these ideas for size and for fun!

DESERT ISLAND Beach themed summer wedding or fun winter fantasy! Create a beach cabana for atmosphere, decorate with surfing memorabilia, hang 10 with some Beach Boys classics, wear tropical leis and make colourful island shirts or sarongs your guest dress code. Serve a barbeque or spit roast with delectable salads, tropical cocktails and ice cold beers straight from the cooler.

BLACK AND WHITE Create drama and pizzazz in black and white.

From elegant wedding attire for your bridal party to stunning table settings and decorations, then dazzle your guests with a “black light” dance floor. Dine on white meats or black Angus beef, fluffy meringues and licorice sorbet, serve crisp white wines or sip black label whiskey.

THE SILVER SCREEN Be stars of your own silver screen with vintage gowns and formal suits, movie poster decorations, elegant embossed invitations and speeches in the style of the Oscars. Create some awards to give out to family and friends, a monochrome photo booth for fun and a silent movie backdrop for the dance floor. Dine on canapés, carvery, martinis and champagne of course!

RETRO ROCK Go 50’s in style with Jersey Boys fashion and rock and roll music.

Arrive in a convertible to your diner style reception. Serve steaks and sliders, smoothies and soda pops and ice cream cones from a drugstore countertop. Hire a jukebox or DJ and teach your guest some moves for a rocking good wedding dance.

MEXICAN FIESTA Go seriously flamboyant with guitars and brass band music, fiesta decorated bunting, and a Mexican hat dance lesson to loosen up your guests. Serve bright pottery platters of tacos, nachos and fresh filled tortillas, empanadas, enchiladas, salsa and guacamole. Taste traditional wedding dessert vanilla and pecan cookies and toast with margueritas or a tequila sunrise.

For the

happiest day of your life Jewellery

Beauty, Hair and Nails

Honeymoon

Flowers

Bloom’n Easy Flowers & Gifts

Like us on facebook! Everyday free parking OPEN EVERY DAY • Thursdays open till 8pm • Food Court • Free WiFi Cnr of Queen, Croucher & Talbot Streets, Richmond P: 544 6259 • www.richmondmall.co.nz

56 With This Ring

A to Z

58 With This Ring

OF CANTERBURY VENUES

RAKAIA GORGE PHOTO BY TEGAN CLARK PHOTOGRAHY

Post earthquake, many of Canterbury’s wedding venues have now been restored, re-invented, re-located or spectacularly re-built!

Consequently the province continues to offer plenty of innovative and exciting venues from A to Z. Imaginative, original or even quirky locations are becoming popular for wedding ceremonies and receptions, whether you favour traditional church, historic significance, dramatic backdrop, contemporary style or a unique place of special appeal.

Consider the size and style you want for your wedding and whether you will have the ceremony and reception at two different venues or in the same place. The latter is often chosen for appealing continuity, cost and convenience.

There’s no break in the proceedings, the ambience is not interrupted and your guests can relax while you have the photos done.

a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z

Ambience of a small wedding at home Beach at numerous options around the city or peninsula Cruise your wedding on the water with Black Cat at Akaroa Dedicated wedding centre at Riccarton Park or Pemberton Event-managed at a premier city hotel like The George or Novotel Farm friendly at Alpaca Farm’s Valley of Peace Wedding Centre Garden setting at Swan Lake, Hampton Lea or the Botanic Gardens Heritage church like St Michaels or St Augustines Ice–cool wedding at the Antarctic Centre Jump aboard a double decker London bus Kiwis witness your wedding at Willowbank Wildlife Park Luxury at exclusive Grasmere or Hanmer’s Select Braemar Lodge Marquee - anywhere you want it NEW – Ilex in the Botanic Gardens Old historic homes like Tangley on Clyde and Otahuna Planes to test fly your wedding at Airforce World Quaint and authentic at Ferrymead Heritage Park Restaurants and Resorts at Terrace Downs or Peppers Clearwater Sports clubrooms like Russley, Netball Centre, Cashmere Club Themed and theatrical at Auroroa Centre or Sumner’s Hollywood Cinema Uniquely scenic at Church of the Good Shepherd Tekapo or Hermitage Mt Cook Vineyards for wine and dine amid the vines Wineries in and around the city – Trents, Langdale or Rossendale eXtraordinary quarry (Halswell) Yacht Club at Akaroa for indoor outdoor maritime setting Zoo- your wedding on safari at Orana Park

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Style and Elegance The George is Christchurch’s most luxurious boutique hotel with a reputation for style, elegance and exemplary service.

But its central location, beautifully appointed facilities and tranquil surroundings also make it a sought after wedding and honeymoon venue.

Located opposite Hagley Park and the Avon River, the hotel offers a single exquisite location for the ceremony, photographs and reception. Each of the spacious bedrooms and suites are designed with a stylish eye for detail.

The George’s wedding facilities comprise of Parkview, which can be configured and decorated to accommodate 90 guests for a sit-down dinner or high end buffet, or 160 for a cocktail themed event. The Residence is adjoining the Hotel and has just completed a stunning refurbishment with beautiful lawns and gardens for the ceremony and a gracious intimate dining room for up to 18 guests.

Offering privacy and elegance The Residence is an increasingly popular setting for those looking for genuine heritage and tradition. Its delightful ambience is ideal for smaller wedding parties, remarriages and ceremonies for renewal of vows.

Top chefs from The George provide various menu options to suit the individual

PHOTO BY STEVE VISSER

GUARANTEED

tastes and style of the couple, including fully plated two or four course dinners, buffets, or the popular and innovative “trio set” of plated entrees and desserts complemented by a buffet or plated main course.

Having your wedding at The George means personalised service from The George’s experienced team. “We will take away all the stress of organising your special day, while you can enjoy every moment with your guests” says Brid, the hotel’s wedding coordinator.

Couples are encouraged to meet at the hotel with Brid to discuss the many options available to them. “They can view the accommodation, the

different venues and examples of the various menus and set-ups, so that we can get it absolutely right” says Brid.

Due to its reputation, expertise and focus on service, The George has become increasingly busy with weddings.

With their renowned flair, enthusiasm, and meticulous attention to detail, you can be assured that your wedding at The George will be chic, classy and memorable.

To look, to book or simply to enquire about The George for your wedding, contact Brid: 03 371 0255, E: weddings@thegeorge.com W: www.thegeorge.com

WEDDINGS AT THE GEORGE

The Luxury Boutique Hotel on the Park

A day you’ll never forget 50 Park Terrace P: 03 371 0255 E: weddings@thegeorge.com W: thegeorge.com pinterest.com/thegeorgechch

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GLASS AND CHINA – hire some matched sets if you need large numbers and want continuity or hunt for quirky floral vintage items and make mismatching part of “the look.”

You can buy whole bags of glasses at op shops and make your own wine glass tags for your guests.

Serve drinks from silver trays, also sourced cheaply from op shops or online.

Interest in all things vintage has recaptured the genteel charm of an elegant garden party wedding.

But it can be as lavish or as simple as your budget allows; go glam for an upmarket occasion or go for DIY with some clever make up and make-over ideas.

Location is the key to a memorable garden party occasion, whether it is for the ceremony, the reception or both.

Most dedicated wedding venues have outdoor areas that can be turned into a magical setting, plus there are marquees and gazebos that can be set up for you.

Alternatively you can host your ceremony in a public garden space with permission from the local council or hire a private garden. Also check on the local bylaws for alcohol consumption in public places.Your family home, or a property owned by a friend or relative may have a large garden that is suitable for a garden party too.

Once the venue is decided it’s time to create some ambience.

You may have the budget to engage a designer to set up your garden with gorgeous tables and chair, umbrella and gazebos, garlands, lights and spectacular table decorations. If not you can source and sleuth some recyclable items and decorate them yourself.

Furniture items like tables and old chairs can be painted in vintage shades of white, antique rose or wisteria with some simple upholstery to give a new lease of life. Hire some long trestle tables or make your own out of cheap second hand doors.

LINEN - traditional white table cloths, runners and napkins are often for sale for peanuts at op shops. Laundered and layered they look just lovely to dress up the most basic table.

DECORATIONS – fill vases, baskets, teapots, tankards or old trophies with flowers and foliage, twist a garland of ivy down a long table, find some candelabra, make an aisle of tulle and bows, make your own bunting and string some paper lanterns or fairy lights for after dark.

VINTAGE VICTUALS – your garden party could include could cocktails, high tea, a gourmet picnic, a sumptuous buffet or classy sit down dinner.

ENTERTAINMENT – provide garden party entertainment for your guests with lawn games like croquet, French cricket, mini tennis, badminton or bowls.

Create ambience with ragtime jazz, a quartet or a pianist and set up a dance floor for some soft shoe shuffle and a lively Charleston.

DRESS CODE – for elegance and authenticity suggest hats gloves and gowns for girls and jackets and boaters for the guys.

SAY I DO WITH NOVOTEL CHRISTCHURCH CATHEDRAL SQUARE

A contemporary design with sophistication and elegance makes Christchurch’s recently refurbished 4+ star Novotel Christchurch Cathedral Square special in every way. Come and discuss your plans today with our Wedding Coordinator who will help turn your dreams into reality and create the most memorable day of your lives.

For more information contact: Greer Goodall Phone: 03 3722102 Email: h6592-sb2@accor.com Novotel Christchurch Cathedral Square 52 Cathedral Square, Christchurch

Novotel.com

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Is the venue within your budget?

Is the venue in a convenient location?

Is it big enough for the number of guests you expect?

Are there enough car parks for you and your guests?

Is it exclusive or will other functions be booked in the complex at the same time?

Can you have the ceremony, photos and reception all at the venue if you wish?

Is there a private dressing room for the bridal party?

Is there a dedicated wedding coordinator?

Is there a dance floor or room to have one?

Is there a place for guests to gather for drinks and nibbles while your photos are being taken?

Is there easy access for wheelchairs, pushchairs etc?

Are there coat check and bathroom facilities?

Does the venue have restrictions on food, beverages, music and decorations?

Is the ratio of staff to guests adequate for your style of wedding ?

Can you choose the size and shape of tables for the reception?

Are lighting and audio effects adequate and available?

Must you use the in-house caterer or can you contract your own suppliers?

Is the kitchen fully equipped for food preparation?

Will guests’ special dietary needs be met?

Is there a range of catering packages for you to compare?

Are you expected to provide food for staff or entertainers?

Make beautiful wedding memories

at Westhaven Gardens Award Winning Wedding Venue.

Exclusive use allows you to celebrate in complete privacy whilst enjoying the idyllic rural surroundings. Our complete wedding packages offer you the convenience of having your entire day in one stunning location.

Is there adequate heating/aircon for the season of your wedding?

Will they provide a written quote?

Is the deposit refundable?

Are there any hidden charges that increase the overall cost?

Are there cancellation fees?

Torlesse Road, West Melton Phone Rochelle 03-347-4470 or 027-615-5073 www.westhavengardens.co.nz

Will you need insurance against breakages or damage or is it included in the hire of the venue?

Do you need any permits or council approval?

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Venues UNLIMITED

In the years since Canterbury’s earthquakes, many of our favourite wedding venues have re-opened, re-located or re-created their amenities and ambience offering this year’s brides impressive venues and unlimited choice.

HOTELS, RESORTS AND EVENT CENTRES

Most hotels resorts and event centres have the facilities to accommodate weddings with style and space, inside or out. Many have dedicated wedding and event coordinators to arrange the chosen theme, the catering, entertainment and the ceremony, and they often have a range of competitively priced wedding packages, to suit different budgets.

Hotel accommodation and facilities are still being rebuilt in Christchurch city, so those beyond the city are also an option to consider.

CHURCH HALLS AND SPORTS CLUBS

With a little imagination, almost any venue can become an appealing place for a wedding supper, reception or dance. Halls can be decorated, furniture hired, caterers booked and music made.

HERITAGE AND HOUSES

Christchurch’s heritage buildings have been badly damaged, so those that remain are doubly precious and in great demand for weddings. Check-out their availability for your proposed date. If it’s not possible but you have always imagined your wedding in a restored Edwardian home or at a beautiful church, look beyond the city to country houses, B&B’s, and the churches of nearby rural towns.

VINEYARDS AND WINERIES

Quiet country settings amid productive vineyards and charming local wineries provide wonderful locations for a wedding celebration and photo shoot. Some venues provide a “one stop” location for the entire wedding from ceremony to reception, and even guest accommodation too. Alternatively you can have your ceremony elsewhere and your reception on the estate.You will probably be expected to purchase the vineyard’s own wines, but their buying power and food/wine knowledge make for a memorable dining occasion.

GARDENS GAZEBOS AND DIY

For a low key alternative, especially in summer, a garden and gazebo wedding can be charming and less expensive. Hire, buy, borrow or make what you need for an alfresco barbeque, an afternoon picnic or a “bring a plate” old time wedding.

MARQUEES

Mobile and moveable, you can have your wedding almost anywhere if you have a marquee. Always popular in summer, they can also be adapted all year round to provide unique shelter in any weather and are available in a variety of sizes.

Erected on a field, a farm, a beach, a garden, a hilltop or at your place, marquee hire can include silk linings, tables, chairs, dance floor, buffet, bar, lighting, sound, heaters and decorations!

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Simplicity & Elegance

AT THE ELMS

Christchurch’s Quality Hotel Elms has been designed to maximise its beautiful surroundings and live up to the expectations of its garden city location.

With a brand new wedding venue and stylish comfortable accommodation, the hotel offers a delightful setting for your ceremony and your reception.

The elegant facilities allow you to have a charming ceremony amid manicured gardens and a purpose built reception area for you to host up to 120 guests.

Quality Hotel Elms has developed three different packages to make your wedding day arrangements as smooth and simple as possible.

In a stress-free three step process you can choose the ideal meal, beverage and venue set up for your style and budget requirements. Each package offers you a range of inclusions

while delivering an exemplary standard of food, wine, service and accommodation.

Whether you choose a small intimate wedding or a large event with all your family and friends, Quality Hotel Elms professional Functions Manager can coordinate everything to make your special day extra special.

With 96 beautifully appointed rooms or deluxe rooms, you and your guests can also be accommodated in superb style and comfort. The hotel’s location is ideal with convenient access to Christchurch city and local attractions including Northlands Mall shopping, cinema and restaurants.

Elegant, refined and ready to make your wedding wonderful, Quality Hotel Elms new venue is worth waiting for. So visit them to secure your date as soon as possible. www.qualityhotelelms.co.nz

ONE-STOP-SHOP WEDDING PACKAGES Our simple package options give you more choice for your wedding day requirements.

Our Gold, Silver and Bronze Packages offer all-inclusive options for food and beverages, and extras such as stationery and flowers. If your requirements are more specific, ask about our non-inclusive wedding packages and tailor made packages for small groups, all with exclusive use of our beautiful rose garden.

QUALITY HOTEL ELMS

456 Papanui Rd, Christchurch P. 03 355 3577 E. events@qualityhotelelms.co.nz

www.qualityhotelelms.co.nz

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SOUTH ISLAND’S

Gracious

Gardens and

Parks OAMARU’S PUBLIC GARDENS are an oasis of tranquility close to the attractive and historic town centre. First established in the 1870’s on the banks of the Oamaru Stream, the gardens feature a magnificent collection of elms, formal gardens, woodland areas, water features and a Chinese Garden complete with traditional red bridge.

Email csunit@waitaki.govt.nz

CHRISTCHURCH BOTANIC GARDENS’ was established beside the Avon River in 1863 and an English oak was planted to celebrate the marriage of Prince Albert and Princess Alexandra of Denmark. Impressive plantings over 21 acres include 5 specific areas available for wedding ceremonies and photographs; Cockayne Memorial Garden; The Pinetum; The Azalia and Magnolia Garden; the historic Bandsmen’s Memorial Garden and the Daffodil Woodland, while the conservatory, fernery, rock garden and water garden are complemented by the iconic tea kiosk and new visitor centre and new visitor and function centre. www.ccc.govt.co.nz

QUEENSTOWN GARDENS beside Lake Wakatipu were gifted to the public in 1866.

Characterised by beautiful lawns, mature exotic trees, colourful flowerbeds, pond and quaint stoe bridge, the gardens are a popular setting for wedding vows and photographs.

Email bookings@qldc.govt.nz

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Throughout the South Island the public gardens and parks of several towns and cities have been established for over a century and provide a stunning backdrop for wedding photos.

Some can also be used for a garden ceremony with permission from the local councils that administer them and sometimes a modest fee or donation.

THE TIMARU BOTANIC GARDENS began on a piece of land set aside for a public park as early as 1864. Today the gardens feature an impressive variety of plants with a conservatory, herb garden, rose gardens (including species gardens), fernery, local native plants and many specialised collections. In addition there is a bird aviary, duck ponds and original tea kiosk, now an Education Centre. www.timaru.govt.nz

QUEENS GARDENS IN NELSON was opened in 1892 to celebrate for Queen Victoria’s jubilee and was designed around the Maitai River. The epitome of an ornamental Victorian garden, it is resplendent with diverse plant and tree collections, formal flowerbeds and, lily pond. The Cupid Fountain dates from 1894, followed by the Boer War Memorial (1903, Sentinel Sculpture 1998 and Water Wheel 2005. The Huangshi Chinese Garden was established in 20o7 to recognise the friendship between the two cities and is symbolised by a bridge uniting them and a “Xie” or pavilion as the focal point. www.nelson.govt.nz/recreation/parks

DUNEDIN BOTANIC GARDENS’ is one of the finest gardens in the country thanks to the early settlers of the city and occupies a 28 hectare site at the northern end of the city. The Upper Garden features a magnificent rhododendron collection, arboretum, native plants and plants from the Americas, North Asia, Mexico and Australia. There is also a modern aviary with exotic parrots and NZ native birds. The Lower Garden has numerous specimen trees, a large conservatory housing the Winter Garden, an Alpine House, Information Centre, playground, tea kiosk and shop. Plant collections in this area include Herbaceous Borders, Thermatic Borders, Rock Garden, Herb Garden, Water Garden, Camellias and Bedding Plant display. www.dunedinbotanicgarden.co.nz

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WEDDING DAY

Allowing your wedding day to seamlessly flow from ceremony to photos to reception to dance to departure can be as simple as a timeline. It’s a tool that professional wedding planners use and one you can adopt if you are organising your own wedding event.

Timeline 3.00 – 3.30

The Ceremony

3.30 – 4.00

Bubbles & canapés as you greet your guests and have family photos

4.00 – 5.00

Depart for your own photos while guests mingle

5.15 – 5.30

Your grand entrance to the reception

5.30

Welcome by the MC and explanation of proceedings

5.30 – 7.30

Meal served to the bridal party and then the guests

7.30 – 8.00

Toasts and speeches

8.00

Cutting of the cake

8.15

First Dance

8.30

Let the party begin

10.30

Wedding cake served with bubbly, coffee or tea

11.00 – 12.00 Final dances 12.00

AWAITING COPY Ad Number: MS1492 Artwork: MS1492 Size: 6.4x6 Description: WIGRAM BASE LTD Account: Colour: F Filename: MS1492

End the celebration with a special song/fireworks/throw the bouquet /your departure

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PRO TECH

Low Tech

or Both?

You can’t ignore technology it is with us every day, so it definitely has a role in planning a wedding.

It can save you time, money, mileage and aggro, it can be creative, make a statement and involve your tech-savvy guests at the press of a button or scroll of a screen.

But it can also be over-used, become gimmicky, intrusive and make your wedding sound impersonal and impolite.

It can also exclude older or technophobic guests who don’t have the latest model, method or means to access your clever communications.

PRO-TECH WILL ALLOW YOU TO UTILISE: Facebook, Tweet, Twitter or Text to update your mates Apps like “Appy Couple” to enter wedding and reception information for guests Paperless Post to send online invitations Pinterest forum for a zillion wedding ideas Websites to research wedding suppliers and services Email to confirm quotes and bookings Internet banking to pay deposits and bills GPS directions to wedding events and venues Digital photography on CD’s and mobile Instagram your wedding with your own hashtag Snapseed to crop, colour, frame and edit pics Printstagram pics into posters, prints, books & calendars Stickygram your pics into fridge magnets for gifts and guests Eventstagram live feed for absent guests to share the wedding as it happens iPod your music selections Online website for your gift registries Visa your wedding/honeymoon travel You Tube any wedding bloopers Selfie pics from your honeymoon destination Electronic cards to say thank you

LOW-TECH CALLS FOR: Newspaper wedding announcements Books and magazines for research Paper perfection for your wedding stationery Post or couriers to send invitations A guest list for RSVP’s Mood boards of design ideas A diary of important dates Blackboard seating plans A Marriage license Pre-nup agreements Insurance Certificates Passports Tickets and travel vouchers Marriage Certificate Maps for out of town guests Guest visitor book Photo Album on display Files for important quotes and documents Thank You notes Postcards from your honeymoon destination

Whatever organisational style you choose to enhance your wedding arrangements remember to back up your computerised records on discs and drives if you are “PRO TECH.” Losing any of it would be a data disaster, so to be on the safe side, you can’t go past LOW TECH for a paper trail that includes photocopies of important documents & decisions.

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CONGRATULATIONS to our winners of the 2014 Vanuatu Honeymoon Package.

Michelle & Justin Cramond of Geraldine!

SEE PAGE 6 FOR MORE

INFORMATION ON HOW YOU CAN

THE HONEYMOON of your dreams

Win IN VANUATU

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ADVERTORIAL

Grand Mercure NELSON MONACO

Danielle Scheib joined the Grand Mercure Nelson Monaco in October 2014 building on a 12 year career in hospitality and tourism.

Danielle has a passion for event coordination which fits perfectly with her love of details, organising and just plain “getting things done!”

From small and intimate to large and spectacular Danielle has coordinated all sorts of weddings

at the Grand Mercure Nelson Monaco, which of course means she knows the venue like the back of her hand! Add her experience dealing with caterers, decorators, musicians, MCs and many more, and you’ve got the perfect wedding coordinator!

Danielle gets a thrill seeing every little detail come together, ensuring each wedding is exactly how the client pictured it and is hassle-free allowing the couple, family and guests to relax and enjoy the occasion.

Since joining the Grand Mercure Nelson Monaco,

Danielle has provided advice, answered questions and generally ‘come up with the goods’ soothing anxious pre-wedding nerves of many wedding couples.

Feedback consistently shows that Danielle and the Grand Mercure Nelson Monaco get it right.

“Danielle and her team really made everything we wanted for our special day a reality and were always available to give suggestions, advice and answer queries. We have very fond memories of our special day and really want to thank the wonderful team at Monaco Resort for helping to create them” [Rebecca Lowry, bride,

AWAITING COPY Ad Number: MS1596 3 stunning venues Up to 180pax Accommodation available Artwork: MS1596 Size: 13.5x6 Description: MONACO GRAND MECURE NELSON Account: Colour: F Filename: MS1596

July 2015].

The 2015/2016 wedding season is not far away and already Danielle’s wedding schedule is filling with confirmed bookings, from as far afield as the United Kingdom.

So if you’re looking for a hassle-free, perfectly coordinated event, contact Danielle, she’d be delighted to show you around, and to discuss how the Grand Mercure Nelson Monaco can accommodate your special day!

Give Danielle a call TODAY on 03 547 0794 to arrange a time to come in, or email events@ monacoresort.co.nz Check out: www.monacoresort.co.nz

All here in NZ’s sunshine capital!

A consummate professional

Danielle Scheib Ph. 03 547 0794 E. events@monacoresort.co.nz www.monacoresort.co.nz *wifi conditions apply FREE Wifi*

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ADVERTORIAL

Marble Point is a delightful boutique vineyard that has been producing award winning wines since 2008 and developing a reputation for fine restaurant food and tastings.

But its location just 13km south of Hanmer Springs also makes it an ideal venue for weddings and other special occasions.

Situated on the old alluvial terraces of the Waiau River which once formed the original Marble Point Station, the modern winery overlooks neat rows of vines and a brilliant blue bend of the river against the rural backdrop of North Canterbury hills.

Marble Point Winery is available as a venue for your ceremony or your reception or both. Say your vows on the sun-filled terrace, have romantic photos taken among the vines and enjoy Marble Point Winery’s purpose built facilities for your reception.

Catering for up to 120 guests for the ceremony and canapés or 80 guests for a ceremony and reception, the venue is picturesque all year round with top temperatures and long light evenings in summer or fireside glow and snowcapped views in winter.

Marble Point has become known for exceptional food whether you choose a canapé reception or a sit down dinner, naturally served with the winery’s own selection of award-winning wines; Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Riesling.

With Hanmer Springs just a few minutes drive away, you and your guests can enjoy an excellent range of accommodation, activities, village shops and thermal pools for the ultimate in relaxation before or after the wedding.

AWAITING COPY Ad Number: MS1573 Marble Point Winery is the perfect venue for a memorable Artwork: MS1573 wedding in the stunning Canterbury high country.

Size: 13.5x6 Description: MARBLE POINT WINERY Contact us today to discuss your requirements and we can Account: work with you to create your unforgettable wedding.

Colour: F MARBLE POINT Filename: MS1573

P 03 315 7579 | www.marblepoint.co.nz

2254 Mouse Point Road, Tekoa Range, Hanmer Springs

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ADVERTORIAL

You would be hard pressed to find a Canterbury couple that hasn’t made the journey 90 minutes north of Christchurch and experienced the iconic Hanmer Springs Thermal Pool and Spa. The award-winning complex, which consistently tops the “must do” lists, is fast becoming one of the South Island’s most popular wedding destinations – and not just for the big day, but for stags and hens’ nights and honeymoons too.

“Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa is a big draw card” says Debbie Moody, an event coordinator for Amazing Days and a wedding celebrant based in the village.

“You will often see groups of guys and girls on their hens’ and stags’ weekends unwinding in the pools and the spa is perfect

for those looking for a little pampering. It is also popular for brides wanting to look their best on the big day – having everything from massage to manicures to make-up.”

But what is not so well known is that the complex also hosts small weddings for up to 40 people. “It’s a great place to get married – the aquamarine waters and landscaped setting look fabulous in photos and you can negotiate exclusive use of the pools for groups outside the normal operating hours” says Debbie.

The on-site Garden House Café can also cater for private functions – perfect for post wedding brunches. And of course, with couples’ treatment rooms in the Spa and an alpine atmosphere that instantly relaxes you, the pools are a perfect place for the bride and groom to spend some “alone time” either before or after the wedding.

“Planning a wedding is such a busy time, it’s super-important that couples do take a break either before or after the big day to relax and enjoy some quality

time together. After all, nurturing that special bond is the most important thing you can do to make your wedding a success concludes Debbie Moody.

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20

WEDDING GUEST

Blues & Blunders

When you are invited to a wedding or you are partnering a guest, there are some unspoken rules of behaviour and good manners that are sometimes overlooked.

1

Not sending an RSVP confirming you will attend the wedding

2

Bringing an uninvited guest

3

Not observing a suggested dress code

4

Being late for the ceremony

5

Talking on your cellphone

6

Wearing white which is reserved for the bride

7 8

Getting drunk

9

Striking silly poses in the photographs

Being disrespectful to your hosts

Guesting WITHOUT GUILT

Guest lists can be one of the biggest wedding nightmares.

Guest list expectations are why families fall out, couples elope and friends get offended!

Naturally you and your families want everyone to share your happiness, but unless you have unlimited funds, you can’t invite “the world and his wife!” So if you have to prune down your guest list, do it fairly and without guilt.

10

Dancing before the bridal couple’s first dance

11

Interrupting the speeches

12

Making off colour comments or jokes

13

Complaining about the food

14

Demanding more drink

But there will also be pressures to invite your parents’ friends, ex-neighbors, work colleagues, the children of friends and family and distant relatives! So if your budget is modest or you simply prefer a small wedding, eliminate the following from your guest list:

15

Singing karaoke during the band’s break

•

Children (except your own!)

16

Not giving the couple a gift

•

Ex wives or husbands (I kid you not)

17

Re-gifting

•

Single friends’ new partners

•

18

Leaving the reception early

Workmates (except for a special colleague perhaps)

19

Falling asleep

•

Relatives you haven’t seen for a decade

20

Not congratulating the bride and groom

•

Boss, bank manager, doctor or accountant

Make a potential guest list before you start planning the wedding budget. Include those who have been the most important influences in your lives growing up and add those who are important parts of your lives now. They should be the core of your guest list.

Don’t feel obliged to invite someone because they invited you to their wedding, don’t invite anyone you actively dislike and don’t be bullied into inviting people neither of you know! If you absolutely can’t bring yourselves to reduce the numbers or cope with the flack, compromise:

•

Cut costs with a simpler style of reception

•

Invite everyone you want to the ceremony, serve wine to toast and wedding cake afterwards to all guests, then have only your nearest and dearest at the reception

•

Limit numbers by arranging a destination wedding

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Please be Seated Creating a reception seating plan is reputedly one of the hardest tasks. Once you have confirmed your guest list and looked at the venue’s floor plan arrangements, it’s time to consider who will sit where and with whom!

Essentially it’s a giant jigsaw puzzle so to make it easy to move names, places and table locations, buy yourself a cheap whiteboard or a piece of cardboard and sticky post it notes of guests’ names.

Depending on the size and shape of the reception venue, you will want to maximise space with the shape of your tables. Ensure there is sufficient room for a head table, guest tables, buffet, dance floor, cake display, gift table and photo booth if you are having one.You will also need adequate space between tables for guests to move to the dance floor or for table staff to serve and clear away plates.

Visit your venue with your guests list and discuss the layout with the manager or wedding event coordinator. Their experience is invaluable; they know the venue and which table formations work best for the numbers you have invited.

Long tables of 12-20 guests work well for informal weddings

and arranged in parallel, can maximise the space of a smaller venue. Guests can move easily to a buffet and staff can serve platters or courses along each line of chairs.

Rectangular tables seating 8-12 guests also work well in a smaller venue and are ideal for both formal and informal wedding styles. They can be configured round the edge of the room or in an “arrow” formation looking towards the bridal table.

You also have the option of seats at each end of the table which solves the issue of seating single guests.

Round tables are popular because they create a sense of intimacy with just 6-10 guests.

While more traditional, round tables also take up the most space and some guests will have their back to the top table throughout the meal.

Once table shape and formation has been decided, it’s time to match up the guests!

Depending on the size of your bridal party, your respective parents may be seated with you or at separate tables close by with other members of your immediate or extended family.

Sort any potential seating problems first; seat ex partners or divorced couples at different tables, put guests with children all together and put elderly guests closer to the buffet table if they have mobility problems. There’s always a dilemma about where

to seat natural parents and step parents so be as diplomatic as possible and don’t be afraid to discuss the situation so that is resolved well before the big day.

For other tables, start grouping other guests who know each other already and add those of similar age or tastes. Be mindful that some guests won’t know many people and could feel isolated, such as partners of

bridesmaids and groomsmen and work colleagues.

If your guests are gregarious and up for it, you can instigate “musical chairs” after the speeches or the main course to make them mix. But be careful the idea doesn’t impede the table staff or disrupt the atmosphere of the wedding – your call.

When your seating plan is complete it’s Murphy’s Law that something will happen to make you change it last minute; a guest is unable to attend, a couple breaks up and one partner isn’t coming, someone becomes ill or experiences travel delays!

If changes are required consult your event manager for advice and try not to make too many swaps or it will become a nightmare. Instead try to a) reduce the numbers at one or two of the tables, b) reduce the total number of tables and “fill the gaps” at existing ones or c) merge the numbers at the affected tables into a larger one.

Once it’s finally sorted don’t let anyone mess with it! On the day, entrust your place cards to your coordinator to put on the tables and have a master seating plan on display for guests to find their seats easily.

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Newbery Lodge SPECIAL AMBIENCE OF

Comprising a charming homestead, beautiful gardens, plenty of parking and superb catering and service, Newbery Lodge has the capacity to cater weddings up to 200 guests.

Newbery is the complete solution for your garden ceremony followed by a gorgeous wedding reception.

Located in the quiet, leafy suburb of Opawa, the 1930s double-storeyed lodge offers a year round venue with three reception rooms of varying sizes.

On the first floor, The Ivy Suite has an abundance of natural light with wide windows overlooking the mature trees and gardens.

Air-conditioned and with its own bar, the Ivy Suite also boasts a large outdoor deck, accessed through french doors, a popular spot with photographers.

Downstairs, the intimate Grange Room is finished in a luxurious deep red with polished wooden floor, and is ideal as a separate quiet space for guests, or intimate bridal party photos.

The Gardens Lounge is also on the ground floor and with french doors leading out to the patio, lawn and gardens, it is the perfect location for pre-dinner drinks or a reception for smaller occasions of up to 25.

The garden is also splendid for an outdoor ceremony and a popular setting for inspirational wedding photos. Alternatively a marquee can be erected which will accommodate 120 guests for cocktails or 70 for seated dining. Superb catering is provided by the Continental team who offer a menu selection for everything from exquisite canapés to a sumptuous buffet or a stunning sit down dinner.

The very special ambience created by Newbery Lodge’s décor and style, established gardens and warm professional staff makes the Lodge much more than just a venue for hire: it creates a seamless experience that is both enjoyable and memorable whether the wedding is small or large.

Enquiries are welcomed and open days are arranged so you can appreciate the atmosphere of a lovely country house that is just a few minutes from the centre of Christchurch. www.newberylodge.co.nz info@newberylodge.co.nz facebook.com/NewberyLodge.co.nz

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On top OF THE

World For incomparable views, and the perfect backdrop for your wedding day, Christchurch Gondola is the premiere choice.

PHOTO: FRANK J VISSER PHOTOGRAPHY

After parking in the large carpark at Base Station, your guests will be magically whisked up to the top of Mt Cavendish in the gondolas, smoothly climbing 1km above Christchurch for simply stunning views and a warm welcome.

The journey to the Gondola affords stunning views of the city and across the plains to the Southern Alps, while on arrival the sparkling Lyttelton Harbour is revealed to the south. As the

sun sets, the day view turns into a carpet of fairy lights over the city at night.

The breathtaking outdoor environment of Christchurch Gondola lends itself to gorgeous ceremony and photographic opportunities, while the recently redecorated indoors and expansive balconies offer an ideal all seasons alternative.

Reopened in April 2013 after a total refurbishment, the clean lines and contemporary dĂŠcor

are the ideal complement to any theme and colour palette.

Licensed until 12am, with no noise restrictions, the reception venue is located on a separate floor to daytime visitors to the Gondola. Superb food tailored for your guests combines with attentive, stylish service to enhance an already memorable day. For your perfect wedding – Christchurch Gondola. www.gondola.co.nz or enquiries@continental.co.nz

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Creating Mood Zones Modern weddings are quite lengthy occasions, often lasting from mid afternoon to midnight or more.

For many guests, especially those who have travelled some distance to the wedding, a little bit of quiet time can be welcome as well as an area away from the music to catch up on conversations with family and friends. So creating some mood zones at your wedding location is a delightful way to go the extra mile and “take 5” in the midst of your own big day too.

Indoors, a powder room to freshen up is great, stocked with

nice toiletries too. Set up a peaceful lounge space that’s noise free or provide a chaise for older guests to put their feet up for a little rest.

Outside make a play area for the children attending your wedding, create a “tea tent” or coffee cart with little tables, a

AWAITING COPY Ad Number: MS1564 Artwork: MS1564 Size: 13.5x6 Description: RUSSLEY GOLF CLUB & FUNCTION C Account: Colour: F Filename: MS1564

porch swing for a quiet chat, a water feature for some soothing sounds or a gazebo where there’s fresh

air and a pretty place to sit and recharge your batteries. Have a smoke free zone and also designate a place for smokers to puff in peace.

Take time to circulate around all the mood zones and share some quiet times with your guests as well as the more exuberant moments.

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VBASE VENUES

ADVERTORIAL

Truly Unique Settings

You know your wedding arrangements are in expert hands when you decide to host your big day at one of Vbase’s venues.

From dedicated event staff to stunningly appointed cuisine you’ll also be spoilt for choice with award winning venue options on offer at ilex Café & Events in the Christchurch Botanic Gardens and the latest addition to their portfolio, Hagley Oval Pavilion.

ILEX CAFÉ & EVENTS

is nothing short of striking.

Nestled in the heart of the Christchurch Botanic Gardens alongside the Avon River, the Function Room offers an exclusive location for your ceremony, reception or both.

The light, bright and modern architecture is enveloped by the year round beauty of the gardens. The bespoke space in the Function Room is only enhanced further when joined with the Café and Visitors Centre.

Weddings can be held in the Function Room any time and day of the week, while the Café and Visitor Centre are available for private functions in the evenings.

Ceremonies can be held off site, in the Function Room or you can make it an outdoor affair in one of three locations in the Gardens.

The charming Townend House Conservatory is also available for

ceremonies at certain times of year.

With the spaces available as individual or complementary areas Vbase has “the flexibility to arrange weddings of varying sizes and styles” says Vbase Local Business Development Manager, Lauren File. “The Function Room can accommodate up to 120 guests for a sit-down reception or 160 for a cocktail style event and configured to include a dance floor if desired.”

Spectacular photography locations and an ultra-modern setting inside and out ensures ilex Café & Events offers you an exclusive setting for your big day.

HAGLEY OVAL PAVILION was opened in October 2014 for domestic and international cricket events and now offers another unique space to Vbase’s function options. Beneath the impressive marquee style roof, modern facilities are superbly complemented by panoramic views over the iconic oval and Hagley Park.

The spacious upstairs function lounge is easily accessible and can accommodate up to 180 guests for a sit down dinner or 260 for a standing function. With its distinctive bar and ample floor space for all matter of set-ups, Hagley Oval Pavilion combines contemporary décor with the atmosphere of a traditional English pavilion.

Large sliding doors face west to embrace the outdoor ambience and perfectly frame those long summer evenings. Parking is convenient and available in its central location making Hagley Oval Pavilion an exciting new option for your big day.

Catering is always a highlight at Vbase venues and the choice of menus and selection on offer is sure to impress. Chef Dan Shanks provides an exceptional range

of locally sourced dishes to suit a variety of styles, budgets and tastes.

With these gorgeous venues on offer, a dedicated Vbase Event Coordinator, passionate staff and exquisite catering, Vbase really does have all you need for an incredible wedding day. Contact Lauren File on 03 339 5401 or lauren.file@vbase.co.nz to learn more about these venues and Vbase’s offerings.

Make life more eventful.

And they all lived happily ever after From pitch perfect views across Hagley Oval to the beauty of the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, we have the venue options and expert management to help make your fairytale day an incredible experience all round.

Go to vbase.co.nz or call us on 0800 VBASE NZ to see how we can best help you.

There’s nothing nicer than a wedding where guests mix and mingle no matter which side of the family or group of friends they represent. But sometimes you need a way of breaking the ice and planning something they can enjoy while the bridal party are being photographed.

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Make Them Mingle FIND A PERSON WHO… Is wearing the same colour as you Whose name starts with the same letter Is drinking white wine Is wearing a hat Drives a Toyota Lives in the North Island Lives in the South Island Has come to the wedding by plane Is aged under 21 Has grey hair Is blonde Can speak another language Wears glasses Has a birthday in the same month Owns a dog Is left handed Is wearing a tie Owns their own business Is wearing nail polish Looks happy

So here’s a “Finda” game for guests of all ages and stages so that by the time the reception starts they’ll be on first name terms with each other! You might even award a prize for the person with the most answers.

THEIR NAME IS…

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Weddings have expanded! In fact some of them have become positively elastic, requiring an impressive and elastic budget to match. Influenced by celebrity weddings, particularly in America, numerous extra events can precede the ceremony and reception.

TASTING DATES –

BOYS BRUNCH – or game of golf on the morning of the wedding

GIRLS’ WEEKEND – anything from a dinner to a pamper weekend at a spa

GIRLS BRUNCH – while they are getting hair and make up done

BOYS WEEKENDS –

and cocktail party for guests

to check out the food and menu for the wedding

anything from a barbeque to a week long road trip

PARENTS’DINNER – parents of the couple host a joint family dinner

WEDDING CEREMONY WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHS

– with a champagne picnic for the photo shoot

RECEPTION – banquet and dance NEWLY WEDS SUPPER –

champagne and canapés

THE ENGAGEMENT PARTY

MORNING AFTER BREAKFAST –

– a big bash announcement

hosted by Bride’s parents

SAVE THE DATE PARTY – hosted by the couple when they have set the wedding date

HONEYMOON – destination often overseas

BRIDESMAIDS LUNCH –

WELCOME HOME DINNER –

for the bride to formally appoint her bridesmaids

SHOPPING TRIPS – in town, out of town or even overseas to find “the gown”

hosted by parents of bride or groom

THANK YOU DINNER –

for the bridal party hosted by newlyweds

With a list like this you can make your wedding excitement last for months, but be careful that you don’t exhaust yourself with all the arrangement and preparations; that your friends can afford to join in and that you and your family are not paying the bills forever!

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ADVERTORIAL

Dunedin is one of New Zealand’s iconic cities and combines strong Scottish heritage and fine architecture.

Alongside a scenic location of hills and harbour, the Dunedin City Council operates some superb venues that offer unique ambience for your wedding ceremony, civil union or reception.

THE DUNEDIN CHINESE GARDEN

is New Zealand’s only authentic Chinese Garden, the only authentic Scholar’s Garden in the Southern Hemisphere and one of only three outside China.

A perfect miniature of a traditional Chinese landscape painting, this Garden encapsulates the essence of nature.

There are many different spots around the Garden which will provide beautiful backdrops for your wedding photos.

The traditional high garden wall encloses you and your guests in your own private sanctuary, and the rest of the world seems far removed. The Dunedin Chinese Garden is a flexible venue offering a sophisticated, memorable setting for up to 100 people.

THE DUNEDIN PUBLIC ART GALLERY is a distinctive and elegant

venue for your civil union or wedding ceremony and reception. A team of professional, friendly and experienced staff will work with you to put together the right combination of spaces for you and your guests.

These can include canapés and a glass of champagne on arrival in Donaghy’s Foyer; the couple’s entrance down the Gallery’s grand staircase and a dine and dance in the ODT Gallery under the glass ceiling. The Gallery is fully licensed and you have the option to use your own caterer if you wish.

TOITÚ OTAGO SETTLERS MUSEUM

is within walking distance of the Octagon and accommodation facilities and is the perfect venue for your wedding reception.

Offering a combination of diverse spaces, the museum is able to accommodate everything from small, intimate functions to larger, lavish events.

With floor to ceiling glass windows overlooking Dunedin’s Heritage District, warm heart Rimu floors and Oamaru and local Bluestone detailing, the expansive Josephine Foyer is large enough to accommodate up to 500 people. The stunning art deco NZR Lounge, is an ideal space for drinks and nibbles and great for small social events at any time of the day or evening.

Situated in the heart of Dunedin’s picturesque heritage district, Toitū Otago Settlers Museum offers a range of high quality venue options, perfect for your special day.

31 Queens Gardens, Dunedin

|

Phone 477 5052

|

Email toitusom@dcc.govt.nz

DUNEDIN CHINESE GARDEN WEDDING AND PHOTO VENUE

This Garden of National Significance offers an exclusive environment for you and your guests to celebrate your wedding ceremony, cocktail reception or wedding photographs.

For all enquiries, please contact Functions and Events Coordinator, Phone 03�477�5052. Corner of Rattray and Cumberland Streets, Dunedin, chinesegarden@dcc.govt.nz

|

www.toitusm.com

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Capturing

the Elegance OF A BYGONE ERA Larnach Castle is the jewel in Dunedin’s crown and allows you to have a wedding that is incomparable for location, history and scenery.

Against the backdrop of New Zealand’s only castle, the gardens provide an idyllic setting for your ceremony and a gracious ballroom that is the epitome of style, sophistication and authenticity.

William Larnach was a merchant, Baron and politician when he built the castle in 1871 for his wife Eliza. The finest materials were imported to befit the opulent grandeur

he envisaged; Italian marble, Venetian glass and tiles from England. The 3000 square foot ballroom is still used for weddings and balls and the castle boasts the only Georgian hanging staircase in the Southern Hemisphere.

Larnach Castle is undoubtedly one of New Zealand’s finest historic homes. Not only is it a testament to the wealth of its builder, but to owners who have restored and revitalised it for the benefit of visitors from all over the world.

Part of the romance and intrigue of the castle today is the tragic history of its owner.

Larnach shot himself after a scandal involving his wife and the

building was subsequently used as a mental hospital and later to billet troops.Years of neglect finally came to an end when the Barker family purchased it in 1967 and painstakingly restored and developed it to its present condition.

As well as its magnificent Victorian interior, resplendent with architectural details, elaborate fittings and antique furniture, 35 acres of garden have been re-developed by Margaret Barker into “Garden of International Significance” status. The native plant trail is a beautifully illustrated walk through the castle grounds among rare and iconic native plants in rock gardens, a south seas garden and a rain forest.

Larnach Castle offers three styles of accommodation for you or your guests; Camp Estate has country house accommodation, is positioned 500 metres from the front gate of the Castle and offers luxurious décor and total privacy. and an alternate venue for intimate weddings.

Larnach Lodge in the grounds

of the castle has colonial styled architecture and has 12 bedrooms with private facilities for guests.

Castle Stable stay, the perfect choice for more budget conscience travellers.

All house guests may dine in the elegantly restored castle dining room and enjoy the unparalled atmosphere of New Zealand’s only genuine castle, while ceremonies and photos at Larnach Castle and gardens are exclusively available to couples hosting their reception at the castle.

Superbly located on the Otago Peninsula, Larnach Castle captures the romance and history of the past. Also on the property is a café, petanque pit and a gift shop for castle themed mementoes to take home.

A NEW audio visual tour of the castle is available for hire or can be downloaded to your Smartphone before you arrive. For more information please email deborah@ larnachcastle.co.nz

Discover Larnach castLe New Zealand’s Castle

“THE PERFECT SETTNG FOR YOUR WEDDING” Phone 03 476 1616 Freephone 0800 527 6224 | Email functions@larnachcastle.co.nz | www.larnachcastle.co.nz

With This Ring 85

A HONEYMOON

at Home

stroll its beautiful gardens and explore the outstanding beauty of its location on the Otago Peninsula. Dotted with exquisite beaches and picturesque settlements, the peninsula’s best known attractions are also unique; the Royal Albatross colony at Taiaroa Head and the Yellow Eyed Penguin Reserve.

Beside Otago Harbour is the Railway Station. Nowadays, the building houses the New Zealand Sports Hall of Fame and only the Taieri Gorge Railway departs daily from this grand Edwardian edifice. It’s a wonderful day trip excursion or an ideal ride to the start of the Otago Rail Trail for a few days of active adventure.

Alternatively from Dunedin you could explore some of the South Island’s most scenic journeys to Queenstown, the Catlins Coast or the Southern Scenic route to Fiordland.

Visit Dunedin and you could almost believe you were in Scotland.

So why not have a honeymoon at home and discover the quirkiness of New Zealand’s most Scottish city. There are pipe bands, kilt shops and tam-oshanters and the early settlers who gave us our first university and a city of fine Victorian buildings also left us the country’s only castle, the steepest street and naturally, our own Scotch whisky!

The Octagon is the heart of Dunedin. Presided over by a statue of Robbie Burns for 150 years, you will also find St Paul’s Cathedral, Dunedin Public Art Gallery and the Visitor Centre, plus various shops, cafes, a thriving Saturday market and nearby, the best and newest stadium in New Zealand too!

Your taste buds will enjoy Speights beer firmly entrenched as the “pride of the south”, and chocolate heaven at Cadbury World, not to mention Angus beef, cullenskink, baps, Dundee cake and a wee dram to continue Scottish flavours.

The northern end of the city is dominated by the classic architecture of Otago University founded in 1869. Otago Museum is right beside it and its various exhibitions and “Tropical World Butterfly House” will not disappoint. The long established Botanic Gardens are beautifully maintained, while nearby Baldwin Street rises an impressive 200m and its steep gradient has challenged the fit and the foolish for decades.

The city’s history and traditions can be found at the Toitu Settlers Museum, but the city’s atmosphere is often found in its cosy pubs. Live music flourishes, the Fortune Theatre produces fine professional productions and the Casino is open late for a supper ‘n’ flutter.

Built during goldrush prosperity its opulent gaming rooms are a visual treat whether you win at the tables or not!

Just a few kilometers from downtown Dunedin, the romance of staying at Larnach Castle is unique.

You can revel in its Victorian grandeur,

AWAITING COPY Ad Number: MS1570 Artwork: MS1570 Size: 6.4x6 There are so many romantic, beautiful wedding venues located on the Description: TAIERI GORGEonRAILWAY rail links. At a church, a restaurant, a beach, in the country, or in the Taieri River Gorge? You can even get married on a train.

Account: We can accommodate any number of guests. You can hire a complete Colour: F train set, or a single carriage, or travel on the first class comfort of the Filename: MS1570 ‘Dunedin Silver Fern’ railcar which seats 94. All trains are fully licensed and have buffet nibbles. Give our Rail Journey Planner a call today.

P (03) 477-4449 • E reserve@dunedinrailways.co.nz • www.dunedinrailways.co.nz

86 With This Ring

Your Pet

AT YOUR WEDDING

There’s an increasing trend overseas to include a couple’s pet at their wedding.

PHOTOS BY SARAH CLEMENTS PHOTOGRAPHY

It’s understandable if that pet is an important part of their lives and the day won’t be complete without them, but you should think carefully about the logistics before you decide it’s a great idea.

First ensure pets are welcome at the venue, that none of your bridal party have animal allergies, that your flower girl isn’t terrified of your dog or horse, your guests won’t think its weird and your pet will behave!

Pets can be unpredictable and even the most placid and obedient of animals can be overwhelmed or bewildered by lots of people and unfamiliar surroundings. So if you are committed to including them in your celebration, keep their role as uncomplicated and achievable as possible. After all you have enough to think about on your wedding day already!

Pets in your pics – is one of the easiest ways to include your pet.

Put their pic on your stationery

Wedding Reception & Accommodation at the one stunningCentral Otago Location

GOLDEN GATE LODGE, CROMWELL goldengate.co.nz weddings@goldengate.co.nz 0800 104451

and have them at your wedding photo shoot for some candid adorability!

Depending on the pet and their personality, give them a job to do; meet and greet if they like people, escort the flower girl up the aisle, wear some signage or be a ring bearer if you trust their sense of occasion.

Some couples go a step further and dress their pet to complement the wedding party’s theme. Just make sure it’s not their first dressup party and that the garments won’t make them miserable enough to destroy them.

If your pet is a horse, you might decide to arrive in style, or have an “equine” photo theme. If you pet is small, you might carry it up the aisle with your bouquet or instead of flowers.

But however you decide to make your pet part of the wedding, put their wellbeing in the hands of a pet sitter who can care for them, settle them, feed them, take them for a walk or take them home when their job is done.

With This Ring 87

NUGGET POINT HOTEL AND SPA

Dramatically perched above Queenstown’s Shotover River and steeped in Queenstown’s gold rush history, Nugget Point is a boutique hotel and spa of genuine distinction.

Outside you are surrounded by mountains and gold medal views.

Inside you can surround yourself with luxury and all the amenities you could want; supremely stylish accommodation, indulgent spa treatments, a fabulous restaurant, tennis and squash courts and an on-site movie theatre.

With Queenstown just a few minutes drive away, imagine your wedding or honeymoon in this picturesque destination. Have your ceremony on the terrace where a picture perfect backdrop of mountains is a photographer’s dream and then enjoy exceptional cuisine and elegance for your reception.

Best of all, a warm professional team of staff will help you plan all stages of your wedding so that you can simply relax and enjoy the magical experience.

Nugget Point Hotel and Spa can cater small intimate occasions up to 80 guests in the exquisite Birches Restaurant with its stunning views of the Shotover River.You will be delighted by a wedding menu that features fresh local produce, complemented by the region’s many award wining wines.

With a range of luxurious open-plan suites, your family and friends will stay in absolute comfort, while The Spa’s mosaictiled heated pool, marble plunge pools, hot tub, steam room, sauna and relaxation areas beg you to indulge in a beauty or massage treatment.

Nugget Point Hotel and Spa is also an enticing honeymoon retreat with the perfect atmosphere to enjoy relaxed privacy and explore the yearround excitement and adventure of Queenstown if you wish.

AWAITING COPY Ad Number: MS1567 Artwork: MS1567 Size: 13.5x6 Description: BOYA NZ LTD Account: Colour: F Filename: MS1567

THE PERFECT WEDDING LOCATION Nestled in a magnificent alpine setting, overlooking the famous Shotover River, you’ll find possibly the most unforgettable wedding venue - the Nugget Point Hotel.

Venue, accommodation, spa, special packages, we cover everything you may need to make your day absolutely perfect.

03 441 0288 • info@nuggetpointqueenstown.co.nz www.capstonehotels.co.nz

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Speeches

WITH THE X FACTOR

A good wedding speech is audible, genuine, gracious and good humoured and should always avoid verbosity, pomposity, crudity and bad jokes.

However, modern weddings are increasingly breaking speech tradition by becoming interactive and creative.

THE DAYS OF THEIR LIVES A bit of power point techno and a little film show of the couple as children, young adults or their romance can be an enjoyable and entertaining introduction to the reception for family and friends.

TRIVIA OR CROSSWORD Ask a round or two of wedding-inspired questions or crossword clues between each course of the reception and be ready with a suitable prize for the winner(s).

RAISE THE GLASS As well as the traditional toasts, raise a glass to guests celebrating recent birthdays and wedding anniversaries or add some humorous ones of your own.

MAKE THE INTRODUCTIONS Guests may not know all of the wedding party, so introduce them with a little bio about each one and how they became a part of the couple’s lives.

Then make the traditional toast to the bridesmaids.

RHYMES OR LIMERICKS Especially good if any of the wedding party have Irish ancestry! Give each table or group the name of a New Zealand town or an Irish one and during the evening get them to compose a limerick about it and the bridal couple!

BRIDE’S DEDICATION Instead of throwing the bouquet, why not dedicate and donate your bouquet to the woman in the room who has made the greatest impact on your life.

With This Ring 89

GIVE THEM A

Taste of Kiwi

Many New Zealanders head off overseas in their 20’s and 30’s, but when it comes to getting married, they are eager to head home to their families and often bring guests with them!

For those who have never been to New Zealand before it’s an exciting destination, so why not showcase your heart and your home by giving them a kiwi wedding experience to remember.

Serve up some of our spectacular scenery, gourmet foods, fine wines, unique culture and iconic kiwiana wrapped up in the relaxed friendly welcome we are renowned for.

PHOTO BY TEGAN CLARK PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO BY TEGAN CLARK PHOTOGRAPHY

FIND A SCENIC VENUE

to dazzle your guests with a breathtaking natural location at lake, mountain, beach, bush, farm or thermal wonderland. Choose chapel, hotel, resort, marquee, colonial homestead, winery, luxury lodge or beach party under the sun or the stars.

SHARE CULTURE AND KIWIANA WITH YOUR GUESTS WITH

The Koru for peace, tranquility, growth, change and awakening (ideal for newlyweds) Double Twist representing 2 shoots growing together (2 lovers, 2 cultures, 2 friends) Dolphin for harmony, friendship & playfulness Whale for harmony and protection for travellers

A haka Music by New Zealand singers and bands Speeches with kiwi phrases, greetings and jokes Quiz on New Zealand knowledge Photo booth with kiwiana props (gumboots, All Black singlet, jandals, rugby ball, surfboard.)

WEAR YOUR HEART ON YOUR SLEEVE Give pounamu for luck Carry Aotearoa roses for love Dress in white like the heron for longevity

TEMPT THEIR TASTE BUDS WITH ALL THE FABULOUS FOODS WE KNOW AND LOVE: Canterbury lamb Bluff Oysters Green lipped mussels Crayfish, Terakihi Orange roughy Kumara, Hangi Kiwifruit, Passion fruit Pavlova, Hokey Pokey ice cream

SELECT WORLD CLASS WINES FROM OUR BEST VINEYARDS AND REGIONS:

Oldest – Mission Estate Newest – Waipara Valley Best Known – Marlborough Most Southern - Central Otago

THEME YOUR WEDDING CLEAN, GREEN AND NATIVE Flax flowers Fern fronds Pohutukawa Paua shell River stones Toi tois Kowhai Manuka

CHOOSE MEANINGFUL MOTIFS FOR JEWELLERY, STATIONERY, DECORATIONS OR FAVOURS:

AWAITING COPY Ad Number: MS1682 Artwork: MS1682 Size: 6.4x3 Description: HAPPY HIRE Account: Colour: F Filename: MS1682

90 With This Ring

ADVERTORIAL

Mountain Magic The dazzling natural beauty of Aoraki Mt Cook ensures a truly spectacular destination for a wedding at any time of the year.

Either within the iconic Hermitage Hotel and its grounds, the nearby shores of Lake Pukaki or whisked away by plane or helicopter to the snow on Tasman Glacier, the various locations offer some of the most spectacular photographic opportunities in the world.

Couples may plan to escape to an intimate ceremony together on top of the Southern Alps, or enjoy a gala reception for family and friends with New Zealand’s highest mountain as an incomparable backdrop.

With superb facilities and 216 guest rooms, the Hermitage Hotel is your complete wedding destination. A first class restaurant offers fine dining to compete with the finest panoramic mountain views. Top chefs and experienced hospitality staff ensure you and your guests receive exemplary standards of cuisine and service.

The hotel’s wedding coordinator works closely with couples to create a day that is a reflection of their dream. Careful

planning and attention to every detail means couples can enjoy the day without unnecessary stress, while easy flexibility incorporates their ideas into a truly memorable wedding.

The expertise of a close supportive team of professionals allows couples to experience a day of fun and joy whether it’s a small wedding party or a large event for up to 250. The hotel can offer a delightful tasting menu for the bridal couple alone or an impressive menu selection for a large reception.

There are several different venues available for pre-dinner canapés, the reception itself or an indoor alternative for the wedding ceremony. Wedding packages can include the services of a celebrant, photographer and florist and include honeymoon accommodation and reservations for guests.

With extraordinary wedding photographs against a kaleidoscope of snow capped peaks, tawny tussock, mountain streams and stone clad buildings, Aoraki Mt Cook is an amazing statement for the start of your life as husband and wife.

AWAITING COPY Ad Number: AD00003 Artwork: {E0DA82D8-A6F2-44C2-87AE-ECA4CF91F478} Size: 13.5x6 Description: hermitage Account: Colour: Filename: {E0DA82D8-A6F2-44C2-87AE-ECA4CF91F478}

Your Perfect Day at Unforgettable Aoraki Mt Cook

HERM320

From a kaleidoscope of mountainous backdrops, superb honeymoon and guest facilities, experienced hospitality staff and first class cuisine, the Hermitage is the perfect destination for your wedding and reception.

Wedding packages can be tailored to suit all requirements,

Visit our website

whether it’s an intimate wedding party or a large event catering for up to 250 guests. Our wedding coordinator will work closely with you to make your wedding day dreams a reality and give you lasting memories as you start your life together as husband and wife.

Plan your Alpine Wedding today www.hermitage.co.nz or call 0800 68 68 00

With This Ring 91

ADVERTORIAL

A Country

wedding CLOSE TO TOWN

Having your wedding your way is not only possible but it’s not far away either!

Hotel Ashburton is barely an hour from Christchurch, is just 40 minutes from the airport and offers remarkable facilities amid country town ambience.

Hotel Ashburton is the district’s most expert and versatile venue for weddings, conferences and accommodation, complemented by various in-house restaurants and bars.

Offering a selection of indoor venues, the hotel can cater for intimate or large weddings and events from 60 to 400 guests.

The hotel is also surrounded by 4 acres of spectacular gardens which are available for exquisite wedding ceremonies and photo shoot locations. Outdoor cocktail style receptions can also be held

in the gardens, with an indoor “peace of mind” backup option in inclement weather.

With all the facilities to make you and your guests feel welcome, the Hotel Ashburton also prides itself on exceptional services to make your day special and stress-free.

Your wedding arrangements will be in the capable hands of a designated wedding coordinator while your choice of cocktail, BBQ, buffet or formal plated menus will be customised and served with flair by the talented award winning team in the kitchen.

Special touches and packages allow you to plan your big day according to your preferred style and budget and include venue hire and set-up, chair and table décor, bridal suite bed and breakfast, ceremony set up in the garden, dance floor and stage, bridal table service plus cake table and knife.

Hotel Ashburton also has the ability to be an exclusive resort for pre and post wedding events with comfortable accommodation for your guests. Set the tone of

your wedding weekend with a “night before” cocktail party, enjoy a quiet big day brunch with your family or close friends, arrange pre-wedding sightseeing or adventure activities in mid Canterbury and then farewell your guests with a relaxed post wedding barbeque beside the hotel’s pool.

A small town treasure just waiting for your booking – visit www.hotelash.co.nz or phone 03 307 8887 for further information.

Hotel Ashburton is a complete wedding resort featuring beautiful gardens, modern accommodation and award winning cuisine.

Your Wedding, Your Way

at Hotel Ashburton

Our function rooms allow the flexibility to host 20 or 400 guests. Enjoy every moment with not only your spouse‑to‑be but with family and friends with pre‑ and post‑wedding events.

With Hotel Ashburton’s designated Wedding Coordinator by your side throughout the entire planning process, and with personalised support from the Hotel’s staff, you will enjoy a hassle‑free day, where everything is taken care of.

With multiple venues, flexible spaces and the ability to customise, we can work with you to create your wedding, your way.

Book & Save $500 Book your wedding at Hotel Ashburton, mention the code WithThisRing, and receive $500 off when you secure your date and pay your deposit before 29 February 2016.*

*Terms and Conditions apply. Further details available from the Wedding Coordinator at Hotel Ashburton.

Enquire today!

0800 330 880 Events@HotelAsh.co.nz fb.com/HotelAshburton HotelAsh.co.nz

92 With This Ring

A WEDDING MENU

For Children

Reception menus are usually charged per head but if you have children attending your wedding they may not eat the size or style of meal you have chosen and you will be paying for food that could be wasted.

Children who are guests or in the wedding party can also get very tired and may not be hungry for an elaborate meal when it is eventually served.

You can negotiate with your caterer to provide an amended menu to serve alongside the adult menu if there are several children among the guests. Or you can arrange specially designed dishes that can be served at a child-friendly time of the afternoon or evening.

Young children cope best with foods that they recognise; small sandwiches, pieces of fish, French fries, pasta, chicken pieces, raw foods, fruit, ice-cream, yoghurt or cake.

Food can be presented so that it is easy to manage such as finger food, on a stick, in a cone, from a lunchbox or as a picnic.

Individual drink bottles can be labelled specially for them and are less “spill-able� and messy than large glasses of juice. Go easy on the sugar and food colourings and make sure that there are high chairs if necessary or a special children’s table.

FRESH,

With This Ring 93

Flexible

& Fabulous Backed up by more than 20 years’ experience with a dedicated management team, Victoria Food Service can customise your wedding theme and present a memorable menu to match your individual taste and budget.

Priding themselves on making everything fresh and creating a selection of dishes to suit a variety of dietary requirements, Victoria Foods impress their customers with deliciously different options that delight both the eye and the appetite.

Victoria Foods can cater for weddings of all styles and sizes. As the preferred caterer at Valley of Peace, White House Black, Isaac Theatre Royal and The Atrium, the company offers wonderful flexibility in a variety of chic and charming venues. As well as catering for unlimited marquee locations throughout Canterbury, including private homes, they also work with Kiwi Tipi - operating unique Nordic marquees.

The friendly and efficient team at Victoria Foods will make your wedding day fabulous so that you can relax and enjoy your day with family and friends. They welcome the chance to talk through your ideas in an unhurried “First Wedding Meeting”. They can provide you with a quote that outlines everything clearly and professionally discussing your venue, menu and BYO or full beverage options. Intimate Wedding Tasters are also offered where you can select three canapés and any two dishes from their menus for up to four guests, giving you the opportunity to sample their food and presentation before the big day.

AWAITING COPY Ad Number: MS1509 Artwork: MS1509 Size: 13.5x6 Description: VICTORIA FOOD SERVICES Account: Colour: F Filename: MS1509

Once a booking is made your event manager will be confirmed and your wedding plans will be in the hands of experts. With open communication, regular scheduled meetings prior to the wedding and “on the day” arrangements operating seamlessly, Victoria Foods will find it, fix it or finish it with fuss free efficiency.

Previous clients say “Victoria Foods were my wedding angels. With the lightest of touches they made everything look, feel and taste fabulous. Best of all, our guests raved about the food while we quietly loved the fact that we kept to our budget.”

94 With This Ring

‘Til Debt Us Do Part

Debts are no way to start your married life, but because weddings always cost more than expected, many couples find themselves paying off bills and credit cards for years afterwards.

Couples put huge pressure on themselves to have the “perfect wedding” and then use their credit cards to pay for it and their honeymoon. They forget that credit card interest compounds and wedding day debts can put stress on your relationship, hamper your ability to service a mortgage, afford holidays or even plan a family.

The best and only way to avoid over spending is to start saving early, set a budget and then stick to it. To do so requires

realistic expectations, the ability to compromise and doing plenty of homework! Most weddings are necessarily planned up to a year in advance so there is ample opportunity to shop around for prices, discounts and packages plus make, borrow or bargain for whatever you can and let people help if they offer.

The biggest percentage of your budget goes on the venue and the menu. As the old saying goes “cut according to your cloth” so choose a place you can afford, reduce the number of guests to a chic intimate occasion instead, or book your wedding any day but Saturday and enjoy the possibility of a venue hire discount. Also choose a single venue for ceremony, photos and reception to save on extra transport costs, booking fees and the decoration of more than one location.

Food costs can blowout too so consider the best style of menu to feed your guests. A sit down dinner of several courses is top dollar and requires waiters to serve it. A buffet caters cost effectively for a big wedding, while small weddings lend themselves to canapés, high tea, winery or bistro menu or intimate dinner.

Wedding gowns and bridal party outfits are the next big cost. It will get expensive if you choose lots of bridesmaids and groomsmen – more outfits, fittings, hair and make up appointments, flowers, and transport requirements. So think smaller. There will always be wedding gowns you can’t afford, so find one you can! If the style suits you and it’s a perfect fit, your gown will be beautiful and so will you.

Choose professional flowers

for the wedding party and use garden flowers and foliage elsewhere. Make your own themed settings and decorations or source them from inexpensive party suppliers or watch Tradme for wedding decorations you can recycle and reinvent for your own event.

Have a honeymoon you can pay for too – it doesn’t have to be an overseas destination to be special. There are countless places in New Zealand you may never have seen and they don’t require the added costs of a passport, insurance, flights or a hire car.

The more realistic you are the less disappointed you’ll be if you have to amend your plans to meet the budget. Recognise that the day is ultimately about you, your partner, your families and your friends. Everything else is window dressing.

With This Ring 95

WELL

Catered for Catering is a big part of your wedding – both the cost and the cuisine. So you will want to find a caterer with the experience and expertise to meet your expectations. Regardless of the location, season, style of the wedding and expected number of guests, chart these considerations when comparing and choosing your caterer.

CV A good caterer will be proud of their previous success and

should have a portfolio of events they can show you as an example of their professionalism.

CREATIVITY & FLEXIBILITY

You will want your wedding to feel unique and a good caterer should be willing and able to contribute creative ideas to enhance your catered event. Rather than just offer a set formula of ideas, the best caterers will be flexible about your ideas and wishes.

QUALITY MENU AND PREPARATION

Whether your style is a BBQ or a banquet, you will want good food on the menu. A reputable caterer will be happy for you to sample dishes and test the flavours and quality of their cuisine. Ask for a tour of the kitchen or food preparation premises to ensure facilities are adequate and well.

DETAIL AND DELIVERY

Your event needs to run seamlessly so you will want to know your caterer has sufficient staffing, is well organised and reliable enough to turn up on time, set up efficiently and deliver the quality and quantity you should receive.

COMMITMENT AND COMMUNICATION

You need to have confidence that your caterer is committed to your cause and hit it off well so that you can communicate effectively in the lead up to your wedding and on the day.

96 With This Ring

FOOD &

Fitness DIY

A weight loss regime should be undertaken steadily over several months rather than an urgent crash diet just before the wedding.

For best results, nutrition, exercise and weight loss should be undertaken jointly as they are all components of the same goal.

A wedding is often the catalyst for kick starting a programme to get fit or lose a few pounds. There are many ways to shed the weight and tone the body and you need to choose the most effective way for your lifestyle.

WHO WHAT AND WHERE 1. Register with a weight loss organisation 2. Join a gym or swimming club 3. Take yoga classes 4. Enrol to play a sport 5. Engage a personal trainer

BUT

If you are worried your budget won’t run to a gym membership or personal trainer, with a little discipline and some selfmotivation you can DIY your way to wedding fitness and weight loss for free.

DIY FITNESS

DIY WEIGHT LOSS

1.Walk or bike to work

1. Reduce your Meal

2.Take the Stairs

2. Take More Water than Wine

Try this as many times a week as you can depending on the distance or your schedule.

If the whole distance is unrealistic try walking part of the way home, or if you have a busy schedule make it once or twice a week rather than a daily event.

Amazing how much extra exercise you can achieve by using the stairs. Don’t just climb the stairs at work, learn to shun lifts everywhere and increase your workout with every step you take.

3.Use the Ad Breaks

Reducing the overall size of your meals by 20-25%, is a simple way to lose some steady weight without changing all the tastes you like.You will hardly notice it, but your waistline will.

Most people are surprised by the amount of calories in alcoholic drinks, but the fermentation process requires sugar. A few glasses can add on the pounds, so if you want to lose a few pounds, drink more water than wine for a while.

Instead of sitting through TV ad breaks or going for the munchies, do an exercise activity in every series of ads; sit-ups, stepups, press-ups, back stretches, knee squats, stretches. In an evening of TV watching you’ll be giving yourself almost 40 minutes of workout time minimum.

3. Tone Down the Takeaways

4. Skip to the Beat

4. Ban Snack Attacks

Put on some beat bop and skip rope to your favourite track. Vary it up with forward, backward and double time footwork and you’ll find your heart pumping and your leg muscles toning.

5. A Weekend Workout

Welcome house work, window cleaning, gardening or mowing the lawns as a weekend workout that won’t cost you a cent.

6. Jog with the Dog

Jog with the dog or meet a friend for a “walk n talk.” Along the beach, by the river or over the hills – the miles fly by when you’re having fun.

If you’re a takeaway junkie, limit your intake of convenience foods by avoiding the fat fryer. Tone down the fast food frequency and reward yourself with a favourite takeaway just occasionally, but only if you must if you must.

Snacks are high in calorie and satisfy the appetite short term. But if you eat regular meals, snack attacks become obsolete because you’re not hungry in between, and your body has time to digest one food intake before the next one arrives!

5. Shun the Sugar

Eliminate as much sugar from your diet as possible. Avoid soft drinks, chocolate, sweets, cakes, biscuits, jams, sweetened sauces, desserts and reduce sugar in tea and coffee. Sugar is the enemy of your health and your waistline!

6. Feast on fruit and veg

Increase the intake of fresh fruit and vegetables, either raw or cooked. They help with digestion, can be useful snack foods and contain a variety of vitamins and natural sugars instead of refined ones.

AWAITING COPY Originally established in Queenstown 10 years ago from the fine dining restaurant Postmasters house restaurant in Arrowtown, Ad Number: VM0074 evolving in to "Crisp & Vale foodstore and catering solutions".

Artwork: VM0074 Catering for many key events and weddings in the Wakatipu Size: 6.4x6 basin from Grand degustation menus for 150 to off site CanapĂŠs served up high over looking Lake Wakatipu Description: CRISP & VALE COMPANY to the heart of Gibston valley and its many vineyard Account: locations and everything in between.

Colour: F As head chef and owner my background prior to New Zealand is training at Cordon bleu Tante Marie school of Filename: VM0074 cookery and Rick Steins flagship "The seafood restaurant" alongside Michelin star experience.

With this background of experience we are the perfect choice for your wedding caterers.

CONTACT uS

info@crispandvale.co.nz or visit our website www.crispandvale.co.nz

98 With This Ring

Exceeding your expectations!

One bite at a time!

AWAITING COPY food, AdReal Number: MS1598 freshly made Artwork: MS1598 Size: 6.4x3 with love Served Description: VERVE CATERING Whatever you want, Account: wherever you want it.

Fresh and Colour: F exquisite... a real food experience.

Filename: MS1598

P 03 383 1403 ext 3 www.tastefulaffairs.co.nz

Contact: Nicky Geddes, 03 374 6662, 021 709 220 info@vervecatering.co.nz www.vervecatering.co.nz

Experience YOU CAN TRUST

Peace of mind comes with trust in your partner – for your wedding day, for life.

Continental is the South Island’s leading event catering and hires company, with a reputation for delivering exceptional weddings in unique venues and marquee sites throughout Christchurch, Canterbury and the greater South Island.

VENUES

Due to its trusted reputation, Continental has exclusive or preferred access to many special and/or unique venues. The range covers venues and marquee sites with mountain, rural or seaside vistas, traditional or modern decor, charming or sophisticated ambience, and is regularly added to. Within Christchurch and Canterbury, these venues include: • Newbery Lodge • Christchurch Gondola • Isaac Theatre Royal • Valley of Peace • Mona Vale Homestead • The Iris Lawn at Mona Vale • International Antarctic Centre • French Farm at Akaroa • Waipara Winery • Tipapa Woolshed

CATERING

A passion for exceptional catering is at the core of Continental: the team aims to deliver on-trend, tasty, stylish cuisine served with flair by friendly and attentive professionals. With 50 years’ experience catering for weddings and special occasions, trust Continental to guide you through the intricacies of planning your wedding.

MARQUEES AND EQUIPMENT HIRE

For those who want to get married in a location with special significance to them, Continental carries one of New Zealand’s largest ranges of marquees of various sizes and configurations, an elegant marquee adding just that individual touch of distinction. The Continental Event Hire division offers a complete solution for your furniture, linens, glassware, flat ware and cutlery.

Involving Continental in your event taps you into an extensive talent base, taking care of multiple aspects of your wedding with one phone call or email, so you can focus on enjoying this very special day. www.continental.co.nz enquiries@continental.co.nz

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Wine TIME

A “good wine” is basically the one you like. However, for a wedding you will want to choose wines that your guests will also enjoy and will complement the dishes on the menu. New Zealand’s variety of world class wines offer plenty of choice, but be guided by your caterer if you are unsure what will suit the time of day, the menu and the style of the wedding.

WHITES & BUBBLES

ROSE & REDS

SPARKLING WINES are bubbly white or rose wines that can range from sweet to dry in taste. They are ideal for wedding toasts and popular to serve with canapés, wedding cake or with desserts.

SAUVIGNON BLANC is the most popular New Zealand white wine andis versatile enough to go with seafood, fish, chicken, salads, cheeses, pasta and some desserts without overwhelming mild food flavours.

CHARDONNAY is favoured for its fruity sweetness, making it a good white wine alternative to match with white meat, fish and shellfish.

AROMATICS encompassing Riesling, Pinot Gris or Gewurztraminers, are delicate crisp whites of varying sweetness. They complement Asian dishes well, offset spicy foods and can be served successfully with fruit and other desserts.

ROSE has returned to favour recently, especially alongside lighter meals or lunch. It matches pleasantly with most meats and is excellent with salads and cold platters.

MERLOT is a rich red wine with blackberry and plum flavours that suit red meats, pastas, and salty savoury dishes.

SHIRAZ/SYRAH reds feature strong flavours of berry, plum, pepper and liquorice to match with grilled meats and Mediterranean vegetables.

CABERNET SAUVIGNON is a full bodied red to serve with veal, beef, duck and lamb.

PINOT NOIR is a red wine of exceptional quality in New Zealand. Delicate and clear it is especially good with lean veal, venison, lamb or poultry and is lighter than the rich reds for lunch or summer weddings.

If you don’t want the expense or difficulty of choosing too many different wines, the most universally liked varieties are Sparkling White, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir.

Your beverages may be part of an all inclusive wedding package, but if you are arranging your own caterer, you may be able to negotiate wholesale prices and “sale or return” purchase with credits or refunds for unopened bottles.

Beer

Just like wine drinkers who have become more knowledgeable about wine variety and quality, New Zealand’s beer tastes have begun to change too.

EMERSON’S PILSENER – easy drinking, not too strong with fruity NZ hop flavour MAC’S SASSY RED - dark, sweet, malty and rich with lots of body WIGRAM BEST BITTER – stronger hop flavour like an English style bitter ale MOA SOUR BLANC – tart

taste and spritzer style, but easy on the hops and yeast

HARRINGTON’S WOBBLY BOOT – dark

flavoursome stout from well roasted malt

TUATARA HEFE – yeast

dominated beer offset by spicy flavours

THREE BOYS GOLDEN ALE -

uncomplicated light fresh beer with wide appeal

With the increasing production of craft beers, it’s no longer a simple choice between a dark or a light brew.

Your wedding budget may allow you to offer guests a selection of different beers, but with more choice available, selection of what beers to serve becomes more complex. While the basic ingredients of beer are still malt, hops, yeast and water, taste variations come from the variety of the hops, the minerals in the water,

FOR THE DISCERNING

the strain of yeast that is used and the fermentation process that produces a lager or an ale.

A lager is bottom fermenting under cooler temperatures which encourage crisp clean flavours and ales are top fermenting and fermented warmer to impart more esters and fruitier flavours. So if you want to provide a beer menu, here’s a selection of craft beers that are becoming increasingly well known in New Zealand and can satisfy the varied tastes of your men and your mates.

You might provide a craft beer selection as a pre dinner drink at your reception, a beer or bubbles alternative with canapés, a beer or wine matched menu, or as an after dinner beer treat for the wedding party.Your choice.

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ADVERTORIAL

Flexible,

&

Honest

PROFESSIONAL

A thousand and one details go into planning a wedding, so the team at Kiwi Cuisine aim to make it as easy as possible and have the ability to cater for large weddings not only in Canterbury but anywhere in the South Island.

Customers have always shown appreciation for their upfront pricing, flexible “mix and match” menu options, fresh food, special dietary catering, complimentary salad samples and professional service.

After more than a decade of catering weddings and events, the Christchurch based company consists of a professional team with respected experience and longevity in the food industry.

Kiwi Cuisine has developed an extensive range of menus to suit

AWAITING COPY Ad Number: MS1557 Artwork: MS1557 Size: 13.5x6 Description: Kiwi Cuisine Account: Colour: F Filename: MS1557

all styles, occasions and budgets which can be viewed on the company’s informative and userfriendly website.

Renowned for value and variety you will find a comprehensive selection of menus from starters/canapés to a supper. Director Stu Mackenzie says “Whichever menu you select, you can rest assured that we will provide the perfect balance between quality and quantity with a level of service we are proud of ” The company’s serviced buffets include your cutlery, crockery, buffet table and tablecloth along with all the catering equipment required to serve and present your chosen menu, as well as uniformed and professional staff to serve you and your guests. It doesn’t have to stop there, at selected venues Kiwi Cuisine can also offer 3 course plated menus or a table buffet menu style of service

which are well received by clients who want a different kind of meal service for their special day.

Cutlery and crockery are included in all serviced menus, Kiwi Cuisine also offer a full range of hire items including tables, chairs and linen on request and glassware. The company also operates a liquor licence allowing customers to buy directly or serve their own range of beverages. Kiwi Cuisine can then offer professional bar staff to serve your beverages without an additional corkage fee.

Whilst primarily a catering company Kiwi Cuisine can provide you with the complete event. Kiwi Cuisine offers a complimentary online wedding planner with helpful wedding planning advice leading up to your day. Kiwi Cuisine also has an extensive knowledge of the venues in and around the Christchurch area. They will go to any venue you choose from

mountain top to marquee and are proud to be a preferred caterer at a number of Canterbury’s delightful wedding venues; Pembertons, Tipapa Woolshed, Rosemount, Darjon, French Farm and Cossars to name a few.

Kiwi Cuisine work closely with many reputable suppliers, which enables them to arrange additional services for the smooth running and planning of a wedding “whether it is booking a venue, organising a marquee, arranging table settings, cakes, flowers, photographers or music we can help.”

Because popular wedding venues and catering companies can be booked out up to a year in advance, call now to secure your preferred date and place and discuss your wedding reception ideas with the experts. For further information & inspiration visit www.kiwicuisine.com or visit their Facebook page: Kiwi Cuisine Catering.

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PHOTO BY SARAH CLEMENTS PHOTOGRAPHY

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Everyone loves a wedding, but you can make yours the talk of the table for years to come, by making the reception memorable for all the right reasons!

PHOTOS BY CHARLOTTE SOWMAN

Give your guests GOOD FOOD that is tasty, tempting and caters for the majority. But you can provide a few innovative side dishes for the more adventurous if you wish. Make sure there’s sufficient quantity and always ensure everyone has had a first helping before people go looking for seconds!

Provide a VARIETY OF BEVERAGES in sensible amounts.You want celebration without inebriation, so keep control of what and when alcohol is served, have plenty of soft drinks and water throughout the occasion, provide tea and coffee and arrange transport alternatives so guests needn’t drive.

Look for a SUITABLE VENUE that doesn’t have to be unique, but it’s great if it is! More importantly, ensure it is easy to reach, has convenient parking and will accommodate all your guests whether they are seated for a meal or dancing up a storm afterwards.

Be imaginative with CREATIVE DÉCOR that transforms the venue into one of magic and mood.

Live out your dream with a venue that’s themed and fun.

Buy, hire, make or borrow whatever you need to make it look simply fabulous and unforgettable.

Go LIVE BAND if you can afford one and good DJ if you can’t.

Make sure they can make music for dancing with a variety that will appeal to guests of all ages.

You want atmosphere and activity right to the last dance.

Entertain guests with a PHOTO BOOTH for some great candid shots of your favourite folks throughout the reception.

Provide some props and costumes and a backdrop and let them loose. Alternatively put some disposable cameras on each table and see what happy snaps you get.

Keep the KIDS HAPPY with foods they like, some suitable entertainment or a movie, a kids corner with games and some special “kids dance” time at intervals. Don’t overdo the lollies and sweet stuff or you’ll have hyperactive kids no one can manage.

AWAITING COPY Ad Number:THE MS1585 Artwork:ULTIMATE MS1585 Size: 13.5x3 PHOTO Description: HOT SHOTS PHOTO BOOTH BOOTH Account: Colour: F Filename: MS1585

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$75

0508 HOTSHOTS (468746)

www.hotshotsphotobooth.co.nz

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AWAITING COPY Ad Number: MS1556 Artwork: MS1556 Size: 13.5x6 Description: JOHANNES VAN KAN PHOTOGRAPHER Account: Colour: F Filename: MS1556

Johannes Van Kan www.jvk.co.nz 027-229-9291

Unique and Beautiful Wedding Décor We have the gorgeous props & accessories that can transform your space and create the magic. We are here to provide advice, creativity and style to your unique day.

www.acropolisweddings.co.nz www.facebook.com/AcropolisWeddings

Acropolis Wedding Hire Based in Glasnevin, Christchurch Consultations by Appointment P 03 359 4116 M 027 229 9266 E chris@acropolisweddings.co.nz

plant love Enjoy memories of your special day for years to come, as a vibrant garden grows out of the stationery itself - truly ‘green’ invitations!

Memories of your wedding day live on with plantable wedding favours; personalised seed envelopes, invitations, favours, tags, place cards and reply cards in multiple colours and designs.

Eco Celebration Company Phone 03 351 4914 Email growingmemories@xtra.co.nz www.ecocelebration.co.nz

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Welcome to Christchurch’s leading wedding store for all your hire and wedding supply needs.

Something Borrowed Something New, formerly Interior Flair, is newly branded to better reflect all aspects of the wedding styling business. The revamped store offers everything you could possibly need to decorate tables, theme a venue, choose a gift or accesorise your special occasion outfit.

With all the latest décor trends and props, you can set up your own table displays in store so that you can view settings and experiment with your own wedding colours and ideas. Lynn and her team can offer advice based on their experience to help achieve the individuality every bride wants for her special day.

Something Borrowed Something New has a comprehensive and affordable catalogue of items to hire and almost everything imaginable

to decorate them. Candy jars, prop signage, backdrop curtains, lighting, wishing jars, archways, topiaries, aisle carpets, chair covers, table linen, stylish vases and elegant candelabras.

Among a vast range of wedding supplies for sale, you’ll find rolls of fabric, a rainbow of ribbons, sashes, serviettes and table scatters, wedding guest books, pens, garlands, toasting glasses, garters, horseshoes, LED lights and numerous beautiful candles.

Floral accessories include lifelike wedding bouquets which are anti allergenic, will not droop or stain clothing and are not affected by seasonal considerations.

There are exquisite handbags and fascinators for Mothers of the Bride, gorgeous jewellery for the bridal party and a selection of novelty gifts for bridesmaids and

hens night celebrations.

Other items in this delightful store reflect the current popularity of the vintage and rustic look and include: pretty tea cups and hessian items, bunting, mason jars and lace runners as well as fabulous glassware and candelabra for table decorations and variety of outdoor games.

There’s a variety directional signage, for your guests as well as blackboards and a great selection of frames to display seating plans and a dazzling diamante occasional table for the wedding cake or register which complements Something Borrowed Something New’s diamante range of table décor.

“We also offer a “You Get Dressed, & We’ll Dress the Rest” wedding service” says Lynn. Like the unseen guests at your wedding, the items you

AWAITING COPY Ad Number: MS1554 Artwork: MS1554 Size: 13.5x6 Description: SOMETHING BORROWED SOMETHING N Account: Colour: F Filename: MS1554

Gifts & Weddings LTD Specialising in: • Wedding/Event Hire • Wedding Accessories • Wedding Flowers

• Gifts • Women’s Accessories • Home Decor

Branston Shopping Centre 393 Main South Road. Phone: 349 4713 www.sbsn.co.nz • Open 6 days a week

have purchased or hired from Something Borrowed Something New will be delivered to your chosen venue and then perfectly set up for a minimal per person charge. What better way to ensure a stress free day with your venue expertly decorated to the highest possible standards?

From classic and traditional to bold and funky, whatever style you want for your wedding and reception you’re most likely to find it at Something Borrowed Something New. “We even have the things you haven’t thought about yet, so come in and talk to us about what we can do for you. Don’t forget to like us on FACEBOOK and check it regularly for in store specials too” suggests Lynn.

Located at the Branston Shopping Centre 393 Main South Road Hornby, with lots of free parking available, open 10am5pm and 10am-2.30pm Saturdays.

Ph 03 349 4713, visit www.sbsn.co.nz or Facebook

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Anemone Sweet pea Lily of the Valley Daffodil Jonquil Peony Forget-me Not Iris Lilac Camellia

SEP/OCT/NOV

Calla Lily Dahlia Hydrangea Gardenia Oriental Lily Daisy Lavender Pansy

DEC/JAN/FEB

Frangipani Protea

MAR/APR/MAY

Ranuncula Poppy Magnolia Hydrangea Anemone Jonquil Tulip Violet Hyacinth Chrysanthemum

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fun | creative | elegant | floral design

Anemone Stock Tulip Calla Lily Ranuncula Azalea Chrysanthemum Polyanthus Camellia Tuberose

JUN/JUL/AUG

blackDahlia designs FLOWERS IN A-MINOR

Breathtaking”

“

How will your day be described?

021 026 22112 | info@blackdahliadesigns.co.nz facebook.com/BlackDahliaDesignsNZ | www.blackdahliadesigns.co.nz

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We create custom decor for special events.

We are passionate about what we do and would love to bring our expertise to your special day.

www.whirl.co.nz 027 4511 553

AWAITING COPY Ad Number: MS1552 Artwork: MS1552 Size: 6.4x3 Description: FLOWERS BY LYNETTE Account: Colour: F Filename: MS1552

Lynette Brass

Ph 960 1362 • M 021 206 5446 Bookings by appointment

christchurchweddingflowers.nz

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Charmed Flowers With a recently opened store near Tower Junction, Charmed Flowers has more space and scope “to offer something different” says owner Ginny Fagan.

As a full service florist providing flowers for everyday occasions, funerals and weddings, Charmed Flowers can also offer exquisite styling and floral props for your wedding venue too.

“People sometimes don’t know what can be done with flowers so I like to find out what couples envisage for their day and create the look and feel of it through the flowers” says Ginny.

While every wedding is uniquely different, people often recognise Ginny’s personal style of floristry which is quite natural, rustic and unstructured. “I love big blooms like peony roses, dahlias and hydrangeas and enjoy sourcing items like hop vines to provide a less conventional background” she says.

Florists are often called upon to replicate vintage and

retro themes and currently wedding styles include long lush garlands, hand tied bouquets, flower crowns, beautiful floral chandeliers and the increasingly popular floral backdrops.

“We can do almost anything that bridal couples want, but they often don’t realise the cost and time involved for elaborate floral effects.

We often suggest combining fresh flowers with our hire range of beautiful silk floral props to make it more affordable” says Ginny. Another big trend coming through this wedding season incorporates warm metallic accents, little touches of gold and copper are very effective and look beautiful against cream and blush blooms.

Ginny advises brides to arrange a consultation with her 6-8 months before the wedding to discuss their preferences, colours and requirements. She sends each couple an itemised quote along with information and images of suggested flowers.

Once accepted she will keep in regular contact with the couple, sending through a detailed list of everything just prior to the wedding date.

The experienced staff at Charmed Flowers will

style your wedding venue or they can provide wholesale flowers if couples want to DIY their floral decorations. “Some brides even want to make their own bouquets, but if they do I advise them to practice several times before the big day to make sure it’s perfect.”

However, most brides prefer

professional flowers for the bridal party even if they arrange their own flowers for the venue. To accommodate interest in DIY Ginny is launching a series of workshops from 8th September to make your own hand tied bouquet, create a floral crown or arrange flowers for your home or venue.

Phone 03 348 8386 , Address 7 O’Shannessey Place Addington, Christchurch.

AWAITING COPY Ad Number: MS1637 Artwork: MS1637 Size: 13.5x6 Description: CHARMED FLOWERS - CONTRA Account: Colour: “ThankFyou so much for making Filename: MS1637 our wedding day so special and memorable! Your passion for what you do is truly appreciated.

The Bridal bouquet and floral arrangements were absolutely stunning! It was a pleasure working with you - you listened to my ideas and created arrangements more beautiful than I ever imagined!”

Alana & Alun, March 2015

For truly memorable bouquets & floral styling

Call the experts 03 348 8386 Wedding Bouquets & Arrangements - Wholesale Flowers - Workshops - Accessory Hire

www.charmedflowers.co.nz

7 O’Shanessey Place, Addington Opposite Tower Junction

Photo credit: Andy Brown Photography, Tegan Johnson

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Bunting is a festive form of decoration and was popular for village fetes, festivals and celebrations dating back centuries.

Fabric options include cheap remnants or off-cuts in various shades or patterns, patchwork supplies or specially selected fabrics that won’t fray. For a vintage idea, you can use lace fabric, recycled doilies or lace trimmed hessian for a rustic look.

Other materials required: • Card • Permanent marker • Ruler • Scissors or pinking shears • 1m of each fabric choice or design • Wide double fold bias tape (for fabric bunting) • Ribbon or string (for paper bunting) • Sewing thread • Sewing machine

Its current popularity extends to wedding bunting, party banners and venue decorations and while commercial varieties are available, bunting is an easy peasy MYO in the colour, style and budget of your choice.

For a wedding your bunting can replicate the colour theme, be as simple or elaborate as you wish and create a charming cost effective look to hang up inside or out.You can make it of coloured paper, spell out names and messages or choose inexpensive fabrics to make your unique decorative statement.

1

For a vast selection of pretty paper or light weight card for your bunting, use scrap booking supplies or wallpaper samples which usually have coordinating patterns and designs, or choose from the extensive range of gift wrapping papers that can be glued onto card if they are too thin. The beauty of paper is the ease of assembly with glue, tape or staples and therefore no sewing is required. However paper bunting is less robust than fabric and can tear easily in the wind.

Instructions:

Make a template of the bunting shape you have chosen (20cm sides for an equilateral triangle or square is ideal)

2

Draw the outline of the template on your fabric or paper Cut out your fabric or paper

3

FOR PAPER BUNTING Fold the top 1cm over the ribbon or string Tape it or staple it along the ribbon or string Leave sufficient ribbon string at each end for tying

4

FOR SINGLE SIDE FABRIC BUNTING Use the hemmed or “selve” edge at the top of the triangle Lay the selve edge of each triangle inside the fold of the bias tape Leave gaps of 3-5cm between each triangle Sew the bias tape to the triangles You can overlock the sides to prevent fraying OR Cut the edges with pinking shears to create a zig zag effect

5

FOR DOUBLE SIDE FABRIC BUNTING Use a pair of triangles for each bunting flag Place right sides of the fabric together Stitch along two sides of each pair of triangles, leaving the top edge open Turn the fabric right side out to hide the stitching and press them flat Lay the double thickness triangles along the fold of the bias tape Leave 3-5cm gaps between each triangle Sew the bias tape to the triangles

6

DECORATE YOUR BUNTING MORE IF YOU WISH: Spell out a message with a marker pen Applique the names of the bride and groom Add sparkle with sequins or beads

7

BUNTING LOCATIONS Use bunting to create an aisle for the ceremony To decorate the front of the top table String above the dance floor To direct guests to the reception or buffet table To decorate the walls of the venue To welcome the newly married “Mr and Mrs”

A Rose by Name Shakespeare wrote in Romeo and Juliet “A rose by any other name would smell as sweet” but roses have come to mean the universal flower of love. Roses are the most popular wedding flowers of all and their many varieties provide numerous colours, fragrances and shapes for the florist to work with. But rose varieties are bred, blended and named, offering another dimension when you are choosing the ideal flowers for your wedding.

Tea roses have a much tighter shape and petals last longer, while rambling roses open to a flatter shape with fewer petals.

WEDDING DAY – a white rambling rose THE WEDDING ROSE – a white cluster YOURS ALWAYS – red coral LASTING LOVE – dusky red LOVE ALWAYS – pale pink

PHOTOS BY thegreendragonfly.wordpress.com

LOVE ME DO – rich cream FIRST LOVE – apricot and cream SCENT-IMENTAL – burgundy and white PASSIONATE BLUSH – cream and peach MIDNIGHT – striking dark purplish blue

Often eaten for dessert or at the end of your reception, the wedding cake is anticipated as a confection of perfection and a visual sweet treat as well. But what flavour do you choose and what’s in the icing on the cake to make it magic in every mouthful?

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FIRST FIND A CAKE MAKER WHO WILL DISCUSS THE BASIC QUESTIONS: What flavours do you like?

How many guests?

When will it be served?

Do you prefer “bite sized” cake styles or a tiered cake?

PHOTO BY TEGAN CLARK PHOTOGRAPHY

THE ICING ON

The Cake

If you plan to serve it as dessert, the slices need to be bigger than if it is to be eaten after dinner with tea or coffee. If it is a traditional fruitcake it can be made in advance and will “keep” well. If it’s a soft dessert style cake it needs to be made as close to the wedding date as possible to retain moistness and freshness.

Ask to see photos of the cake maker’s work, request a “tasting” appointment to check on the flavours you prefer. Once the flavour(s) and have been decided, the decoration of the cake(s) can be discussed. Most couples have a wedding theme or colour scheme in mind which is often replicated with the cake. The skill and experience of your cake maker will ensure the right icing methods and products are chosen to create the desired effect.

BUTTERCREAM is a smooth blend of butter, eggs and cream and is often used for piping details and to make individual decorations.

FONDANT is a sweet dough of sugar, corn syrup and gelatine which can be rolled out like pastry onto the cake. It hardens over time and forms the “blank” surface for later decorations.

GANACHE is made of chocolate and cream. It is soft and rich and used as a filling or a soft topping for a dessert style cake.

MERINGUE a fluffy mixture of sugar and eggs whites whisked together at high speed then shaped and baked slowly so it is crunchy on the outside and soft inside.

ROYAL ICING is a smooth blend of icing sugar and egg white that is used to pipe decorative detailing onto the cake. It also hardens over time.

MARZIPAN is a sweet paste of ground almonds, sugar and egg whites which can be rolled into flat sheets or used to cut out edible decorations. It often forms a flat layer on a fruit cake before adding fondant or royal icing.

Each individual is unique.

Their cake should be too.

Cakes Galore

P 03 352 4177 W cakesgalore.co.nz E adrienne@cakesgalore.co.nz

The larger and more elaborate your cake is, the more expensive it will be. But there are ways of reducing the cake costs if your budget is limited: • Serve your cake as dessert instead of being as well as dessert • Order a plain iced cake and decorate it with fresh flowers • A square shaped cake feeds more guests than a round one • Don’t order an extra tier if you don’t need one • Bake your own cake(s) and get them professionally iced • Store left over cake in your freezer for an anniversary Before confirming your cake maker, ensure they are available for the date of the wedding and what the quoted price includes. Most cake makers supply the decorations, the cake board and sometimes the cake knife as well as the box and its delivery.

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THE

Big Cheese

PHOTO BY TEGAN CLARK PHOTOGRAPHY

Increasingly popular in Europe as an alternative to a sweet wedding cake, the Cheese Wheel offers a chic twist to a wedding meal or late supper.

It can be served in addition to a small cake for guests who like more traditional wedding fare, or take pride of place for the usual

custom of cutting the cake.

Don’t regret not having an iced confection, cheese wheels decorate beautifully and can be just as photogenic.

Stack the wheel in 3 or 4 round tiers with different flavoured cheeses; a hard cheese for the base, a flavoured cheese in the middle and a smaller soft cheese at the top. Suggestions

for layers include a hard cheddar with appeal to most guests, a flavoured variety such as smoked, herb, fruit or poppy seed, then a soft brie or camembert topped with wedges of blue vein cheese.

Garnish your cheese wheel with grapes, figs, berries, tropical fruits and cherry tomatoes and serve with wafers, crackers or bread sticks.

New Zealand has some wonderful cheese companies including the award winning Barry’s Bay and Whitestone companies in the South Island.

Check out your choice of cheeses with deli counter tastings or for more information and inspiration visit www.nzsca.co.nz the country’s specialist cheese makers association.

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Entrance OR EXIT

The theme, style or atmosphere of a wedding is often reflected in the mode of transport chosen for the bride’s arrival and sometimes the couple’s departure from the reception.

You might want to make your entrance or exit in unique style, but it is wise to check out both availability and practicality when making your choice of wedding vehicle.

CLASSICALLY VINTAGE Vintage and classic cars can sometimes be hired from dedicated wedding transport companies. Alternatively you can contact local car clubs and enthusiasts who are often asked to source vehicles and drivers among their members.You may also know someone with a restored vehicle who would drive it for your wedding transport.

PHOTO BY TEGAN CLARK PHOTOGRAPHY

ON THE HOOF There’s something special about arriving at the wedding by horse and carriage. Look for local listings and ensure you will have experienced drivers and horses with a friendly, unflappable temperament.

FRIENDS AND NEIGHBOURS Your guests may own late model cars that you could use for the wedding, or you could hire identical vehicles from a rental car company and find reliable drivers among family, friends or neighbours.

#1

AWAITING COPY i n C h r i s t c h u r c h f o r yo u r Ad Number: MS1578 Wedding Transport Artwork: MS1578 Also available for General Charter, Size: 6.4x3 Corporate functions, Childrens birthday parties etc plus a genuine English 70 seaterCHARTERS Double Decker bus.

Description: CHCH COACH Organise your guests’ and Account: Bridal transport, in Classic Colour: vehiclesFwith one phone call Filename: MS1578

Christchurch Coach Charters

PH: (03) 355 6159 | www.chchcoachcharters.co.nz

LAST WORD IN LUXURY Luxury vehicles like a Rolls Royce or “limo” provide the bridal couple with “once in a lifetime” grandeur. A bride’s gown, train and veil are less likely to be creased in a spacious limousine and there are the additional facilities of bar, privacy screen, sound systems and tinted windows for your comfort and relaxation on the big day.

RENT-A CAR Rental car and taxi companies are usually able to provide matching vehicles as well as the services of a chauffeur for the occasion if required. They often have a selection of decorations and ribbons that suit the colour and theme of the wedding.

TRAINS AND BOATS AND PLANES Arriving by air or sea is a spectacular way to make a wedding entrance. Hot air balloon, chopper, plane or launch may be possible options, if you are prepared for the cost and logistics. But in New Zealand there are fewer and fewer train options unless you hold your wedding in a Heritage Park.

COOL AND CREATIVE You may plan to be unconventional and arrive by truck, motorbike, rickshaw or sedan chair. Perhaps, in European tradition, you’ll walk to the wedding so that local residents can wish you luck!

PAYING YOUR WAY Wedding transport is generally booked for the estimated time, and number of vehicles required to take the bridesmaids and the bride and her father to the ceremony, the bride and groom from the ceremony to the location for photographs and from there to the reception venue. Arrangements other than this can usually be accommodated if they are discussed, with the company concerned and a written estimate is provided for your additional requirements.

But whatever type of transport you choose, you will still want comfort, punctuality and reliability.

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Worsted FINE FABRIC

Worsted wool fabric is used in the making of tailored garments, particularly men’s suits. The name of the fabric comes from Worstead, a village in Norfolk in the east of England.

Worsted was one of three centres established in the area during the Middle Ages when Flemish weavers settled there after escaping religious persecution in what is now Belgium.

For 500 years the village of Worsted was a centre for weaving, but eventually the Industrial Revolution mechanised the industry and centralised it in large towns and cities. However a few of the original Flemish weavers’ houses in Worsted survive and because they were

built to accommodate large looms and cool cellars to store the wool, they are much larger than most homes of that era.

Worsted was made from the long stapled wool of English sheep breeds like Teeswaters, Leicester Longwools and Romney Marsh. Instead of carding it ready for spinning, the wool was washed and combed with long toothed combs that made the fibres lie flat and parallel.

Initially combed by hand, the later invention of a combing machine produced even fibres that could be spun into smooth yarn ready for weaving into cloth.

Prior to weaving the yarn is dyed and depending on the thickness of the spun yarn, various styles of cloth can be woven including gabardine, serge and suiting.

But while colours, patterns and fashions have changed many

times over the centuries, the popularity of Worsted fabric has remained unchallenged.

Worsted cloth is light in weight and resilient and because it is woollen, the fabric breathes and keeps its natural shape. Pure Worsted is entirely made of wool, while modern blends use Worsted yarn and some synthetic fibres to achieve a lighter crease-resistant fabric.

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Remember When...

Every couple had a “going away outfit” as part of their wedding attire? The ‘going away’ outfit was a classic tradition when the Bride and Groom, were farewelled by their guests as they left the reception to embark on their honeymoon.

Modern couples stay at the wedding almost to the end, but in the past it was considered etiquette to leave before the guests. Going away outfits were usually chosen for travelling comfort and suitability for

WHAT’S

Old Filigree is a delicate style of jewellery that has been known since ancient times and early Etruscan examples date from 5th century BC.

The word filigree is derived from the Latin “filum” meaning thread and “granum” meaning grain or bead.

Usually made of gold or silver, with tiny beads or twisted threads, filigree jewellery resembles fine metallic lace.

Requiring painstaking detail, filigree has endured over the centuries as craftsmen in different countries discovered the metalwork technique. Today you’ll find filigree designs from Ireland to Asia. It became particularly popular in Italy and France from 1600’s and reached the height of popularity in England during the art deco era of the 1920’s. With strong interest in vintage and retro styles, present day filigree recaptures the jewellery designs of the past and is considered the “craftsmanship of romance.”

smart wear in newly married life.

Victorian brides frequently didn’t want people to know they were on their honeymoon and dressed conservatively to disguise their embarrassment!

The going away outfit endured well into the 1970’s with the groom often choosing a serviceable business suit, while brides mostly changed into a semi formal dress/jacket or suit with matching accessories.

Fashion conscious brides sometimes gave as much thought to their going away outfit as they did to their bridal gown! But formality later gave way to more casual clothing before being phased out altogether as wedding styles and customs changed.

New WHAT’S

If you want the latest idea in floral design, ask your florist about “flower wands.”

The blooms are secured onto a decorated stick which is easy to hold, especially for young bridesmaids and flower girls, but sophisticated versions make

a chic fashion statement for the contemporary bride.

The wand may feature a single bloom, a ball or cluster of flowers, flowers with long slender stems bound to the wand, or a bouquet twisted along the entire length of the wand. Alternatively you can use silk flowers, decorate with ribbons, jewels, bells or foliage.

INSPIRING

Invitation Designs

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Inspirational invitations provide the delight of wedding anticipation and set the scene for your guests. Your wedding stationery can be imaginative, informal, whimsical, semi formal or classically presented for a traditional wedding.

VARIOUS PRINTING METHODS CAN PRODUCE IMPRESSIVE INDIVIDUAL STYLE USING:

STATIONERY DESIGNERS

• Digital printing press with almost limitless colours, design details and papers • Letterpress for an old style textured finish • Die Cutting for punching traditional decorative patterns and shapes • Laser Cutting to produce intricate computer controlled patterns • Foil Stamping using heat and pressure for a raised impression • Hand Crafted artistry for a one-off look

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custom-make your wedding invitations with printed images, motifs, fonts and calligraphy for a unique boutique look

and printing companies have a comprehensive range of cards, paper and envelopes, which can then be printed with your chosen words and details.

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Gift Guide for Guests

For centuries wedding etiquette all over the world expects the guests to give a gift to the bridal couple.

As well as tokens of luck and love, money and household items were given to help the newlyweds set up home. While the gesture remains the same, modern wedding etiquette allows couples to be specific about the gifts they need or prefer.

A GIFT REGISTER Creating a gift register is a well established practice and has several advantages; guests can be sure they have chosen something you will like and there won’t be embarrassing duplications or items that are not to your taste.You can coordinate a range of different items, stipulate preferred colours or brands and even have a specific register to select travel and accommodation for your honeymoon The gift register may be your own compilation or one that has been developed and held at a specific store. Be sure to choose a store that has a good range of items and prices and for out of town guests it is especially helpful if your gift register is lodged with a nationwide store.

THE WISHING WELL For couples who have already set up a home, or will be living overseas after the wedding, money is a welcome and convenient alternative.

The Wishing Well provides an acceptable way of both giving and receiving gifts of money and the request for money is usually worded in the wedding invitation.

Most venues can provide a wishing well, but there are other options that may fit suitably , creatively or quirkily with your theme or wedding dĂŠcor; a basket, a barrel or a letterbox, a suitcase, treasure chest or phone booth, a pin board, a silver tray or a collection plate.

At the reception be sure to thank guests for their contributions and always send an individual message of thanks once you have decided what to buy with the money from your guests.

WEBSITE REGISTRY Alternatively you could use a website that helps couples create their own wedding register. It costs just $35 to register, you can list gifts from any store or a combination of stores and you add details of brands, models, designs and even photos. As well as a user friendly format, the register is great for out of town or overseas guests and you can show a web link to the individual stores you both love! www.giftywedding.com

Commemorative Wedding Gift Ideas Wedding Day Goblets or Champagne Flutes Cake knife engraved with wedding date Wedding unity candle Engraved wedding rings Name cake topper Calligraphic framed wedding vows Name plate for their letter box Personalised car number plate Collage picture of wedding guests Ceramic numerals of the wedding date Personalised picture frame Family tree poster Pressed wedding flowers in a frame His and Hers coffee mugs Watch with engraved date for him Wedding day charm bracelet for her Monogrammed money box for loose change Photographic coasters Family Tree poster Monogrammed stationery

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WEDDING

Superstitions

Many wedding traditions are based on ancient superstitions. In New Zealand, due to decades of immigration by many different cultures we have embraced a hybrid of customs from all over the world.

Frequently they have evolved into modern versions of old traditions and sometimes the original meaning has been lost. But even the most modern wedding includes a superstition or two, so try these for size!

BRIDAL COLOURS – this rhyme originates in medieval Europe. It doesn’t mention white for a wedding as that wasn’t introduced until Victorian times. It also doesn’t include Asian cultures for whom red and saffron yellow are important colours for weddings, religion and good luck.

NOT SEEING EACH OTHER BEFORE THE WEDDING – considered bad luck by most couples, the custom originated in the days of arranged marriages so that the Groom didn’t have time to change his mind if he didn’t like the look of his bride!

This tradition is being discarded by modern couples in favour of the candid “first look” photo before the ceremony.

Married in Red, you will wish yourself dead Married in Yellow, ashamed of your fellow Married in Green, afraid to be seen Married in Pink, your spirit will sink Married in Grey, you will go far away Married in Black, you will wish yourself back Married in Blue your marriage will be true

AT THE CEREMONY – the Bride stands to the left of the Groom because in the past he could fend off other suitors with a sword held in his right hand. Historically marriages were performed by a religious figure and the couple faced the altar and cross.

Modern marriages are frequently secular and the couple face one another to make their vows.

WEDDING JEWELLERY – diamonds are supposedly for ever, but historically the sapphire was the colour of fidelity.

Don’t drop a ring at the ceremony, for whoever drops it will apparently die first.

The unbroken shape of the wedding ring symbolised unbroken vows for life and a gold ring was the most enduring of metals.

PHOTO BY MONACO GRAND MECURE

THROWING THE BOUQUET – instead of tearing a piece off the bride’s dress for luck and supposedly becoming the next person to marry, throwing the flowers was introduced so that the dress survived the wedding.

CHANGING YOUR NAME – it was thought unlucky for the bride to have a maiden name beginning with the same letter as the groom’s surname.

“To change the name but not the letter Is change for the worst and not the better.”

TOSSING THE GARTER – the Bride’s garter was originally thrown by the Groom from the wedding chamber to waiting guests to show that the marriage had just been consumated!

TOKENS OF LOVE – Weddings are celebrated in many cultures by items that are thrown (rice or confetti for good luck), flown (doves for love and peace), blown (balloons to start their journey), flung (shoes to dissuade other suitors), rung (bells to announce the marriage) and rattled (tin cans to ward off evil spirits).

Cook Islands

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CHARM

like a tropical bouquet, wedding photography and a celebratory dinner.

The Rarotongan Resort Hotel is the island’s best known property and its idyllic beach location on the shores of Aroa is just one of several that couples can choose for their ceremony. With comfortable accommodation, superb Charming, undemanding and amenities, numerous activities unspoiled the Cook Islands are and privacy for guests, it’s also a easy to reach and hard to leave. sought after location for a relaxing So what better place to exchange and memorable honeymoon. your vows or enjoy the simplicity As well as warm clear waters of an island honeymoon? and a coral reef teeming with Rarotonga is the largest of the colourful fish, the island’s volcanic Cook Islands, but you can easily origins have produced a rugged discover its beaches and lagoons hinterland of mountain and as you navigate its 32km circular rainforest to discover on foot, road by local bus, hire vehicle horseback or mountain bike. or popular motor scooter. It’s Small villages dot the coast like impossible to get lost and every beads on a necklace. In between detour is a scenic, cultural or you’ll find deserted stretches historic delight. of sand for a languid swim and Several of Rarotonga’s excellent little cafes, restaurants popular resorts have wedding and beach bars like the quirky and honeymoon packages that Shipwreck Hut at Aorangi. Order provide couples with romantic a simple tasty lunch, enjoy a venues to exchange their vows and sunset cocktail, chill-out on the add a variety of special touches

Imagine arriving on a tropical island, being welcomed with a frangipani lei, invited to leave your cares behind and adopt laid back island time throughout your stay!

hammock or laze in the sandfrilled lagoon.

Avarua is the capital of Rarotonga and a busy service centre for the 14 islands of the Cook group. The Cook Islands uses the New Zealand dollar so shopping couldn’t be simpler whether you visit duty free shops or buy local products include clothing, crafts and jewellery, especially the islands beautiful black pearls.

On Saturdays the thriving Punanganui Market attracts visitors and locals to try, buy and enjoy homegrown coffee, bright sarongs, wood carvings, basketry, jewellery or traditional tivaevae quilts or rito hats. Treat yourself to a divine tropical fruit slushy and fresh baked coconut rolls, amble over to the legendary Trader Jacks for a seafood lunch and a lager or retreat to your villa, bure or resort for an afternoon swim or siesta Dancing, crafts, church,

food and flowers are the cornerstones of Cook Island life.

A visit to Te Vara Nui, Rarotonga’s purpose built cultural centre is an interactive journey into its history, culminating in a spectacular island night of entertainment and feasting on local delicacies.

Many couples find Rarotonga’s gentle pace ideal for their entire honeymoon, but others may choose to fly to the island of Aitutaki for the ultimate honeymoon getaway.

Described as a destination for incurable romantics, Aitutaki is an exquisite atoll, fringed by golden sands and set in the most vivid luminous turquoise waters you can imagine. The atoll is just a short flight from Rarotonga and the luxury Aitutaki Lagoon Resort and Spa is your perfect Pacific paradise.

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The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa and Sanctuary Rarotonga-on the beach are both located on the stunning southwest coast of Rarotonga – ensuring that you are able to live your dream of a beautiful sunset beach wedding, right on the island’s best white sandy beach with the sun setting across our sparkling blue Aroa Lagoon, the Lagoon of Love. Pure bliss!

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YOU ARE MY

Sunshine The Sunshine Coast of Queensland is aptly named! Beckoned by warm ocean currents and 100kms of dazzling beach stretching all the way from Caloundra to Noosa, lured to a hinterland that’s greener than grass and intrigued by the largest sand island in the world, no wonder it’s one of our most popular holiday and honeymoon destinations.

For vacationers who like indolent relaxation, there are numerous spas, retreats and resorts to hideaway, while away and whisk away stress! There is leisurely shopping at malls, boutiques and markets and if exploring makes you hungry, be prepared for mouth watering seafood, land food and fresh food.

Stunning cafes and restaurants are located ocean side, riverside and countryside, creating dishes of

flair and originality from the fish, farm and tropical fruit in their locality.

The stunning scenic variety of ocean, island, beach, lakes, rivers, waterfalls, hills, valleys and forests has fostered a smorgasbord of activities, attractions and events to delight the most dedicated holiday maker. Independently or enticed by professional operators and guides you can dive, float, boat, hike, bike, ride, glide, sail or surf, even if you are a complete novice.

Some of the Sunshine Coast’s best attractions highlight what is different and unique: indigenous culture, historic townships and the extraordinary wildlife to be found in the water or on the land – whether colourful, cute, cuddly, endangered or even downright dangerous.

For intrepid explorers the region is a delight to discover on your own. Good highways inland and along the coast allow an interesting range of day trips or road trips that incorporate markets, museums, arts and crafts and access to the wonderful walks of the Sunshine Coast hinterland.

Discover the “3M’s” – Mapleton, Montville and Maleny where a food

and beverage trail introduces you to award winning cheeses, chocolate, coffee and wines as well as magical views of the Obi Obi Valley, the Glasshouse Mountains and Lake Baroon.

Inland accommodation ranges from chic to rustic with self catering cottages and villas, luxury B&B’s or campsites.

If you crave a sea view, it’s not hard to find with numerous apartments, hotels and resorts along the golden ribbon of coast.

North of Noosa you can escape

to the magic of Fraser Island’s protected natural beauty and untamed wilderness. Take a day trip or stay at one of the island’s eco resorts for a less unhurried visit.

Arrive in Brisbane and in an hour you’ll find the start of the Sunshine Coast. It’s accessible, affordable and demands nothing of you except to relax and enjoy yourself. With maximum temperatures ranging from 22-29 degrees most of the year, it’s a great destination for all seasons.

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Fiji is…

• 330 unspoiled tropical islands • 1000kms of white sand beaches • Warm and sunny • Acres of coral reefs • Restful, relaxing and romantic • Just four hours flying time from Christchurch • The ideal honeymoon destination Fiji has long been favoured as a sun-drenched destination for New Zealanders. Suitable for almost any budget you will find luxury resorts, charming island bures or comfortable cruise cabins! Different resorts can provide you with exactly the honeymoon you desire, from activity- packed to indulgent pamper and sunshine snooze!

Many resorts offer wedding packages that encompass accommodation for the couple, bridal hair and make up, photography, wedding cake, flowers, catering for a certain number of guests, music and the services of the celebrant. Venues

can range from purpose built chapels, traditional open-sided bures or informal settings created on the beach or by the pool.

For your wedding or your honeymoon choose one of the beautifully appointed hotels and resorts along the the Coral Coast south of Nadi and have easy access to jet boating, golf, hot air ballooning, cultural tours and shopping as well as the spas, restaurants and pools of your selected resort.

Offshore, other popular resorts are dotted throughout the Mamanuca Islands, just a short hop by boat or light plane.

Discover the delights of beach and water sports, laid back island time and a balmy tropical climate to help you unwind. Most holiday packages include return flights to Nadi and transfers to your resort, with optional meal plans to suit appetites and budgets.

To really get away from it all, join a Blue Lagoon cruise to the Yasawa Islands. By day, your pristine vessel transports you to the “real Fiji” of deserted tropical beaches, remote villages and breathtaking snorkelling, diving and swimming.

At dusk you’ll be at a tranquil overnight anchorage for an

evening of feasting, fun and festivities with your cosmopolitan fellow passengers and friendly crew. Magnificent sunsets are guaranteed! Various itineraries are available from overnight to several days duration – the perfect holiday at sea or a romantic getaway combined with a few days at an island resort.

Sunday departures from Christchurch make Fiji a supremely convenient destination to reach after a saturday wedding.

So step aboard your flight at Christchurch International Airport, then sit back in comfort and enjoy light meals, drinks, entertainment and a friendly “bula” welcome all the way to Fiji!

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DESTINED TO

Delight You If you are thinking of distant shores for your honeymoon, Croatia is a destination to delight.

Described as the “new Greek Isles,” Croatia has surprising diversity and is fast emerging as a traveller’s paradise.

Think sizzling Mediterranean climate, a coastline bordering the clear sparkling waters of the Adriatic, a myriad of offshore islands to stay on or play on, 2000 year old Roman ruins, picturesque Medieval cities and a World Heritage hinterland of unspoiled scenic beauty.

Croatia’s history is as chequered as the design on its flag; it’s been ruled by the Romans, converted to Christianity, had its own king and faced numerous battles due to its geographic position between Hungary and Turkey.

In 1918 Croatia became part of communist Yugoslavia for 60 years and was then embroiled in the Bosnian conflict following General Tito’s death!

But since the peace treaty of 1995, Croatia has transformed itself into a safe independent country with a tourism industry that has begun to flourish.

History has left its mark on Croatia and visitors are relishing a legacy of outstanding architecture, exquisite churches and a culture brimming with colour, customs and festivals.

City lovers can explore the capital of Zagreb’s colourful Upper and Lower Town on foot, discover the city of Split where Roman ruins have been incorporated into a modern day precinct of charm and bustle or step back in time in Dubrovnik with its ancient city walls and spectacular harbour.

Dubrovnik is a tourist hub for

discovering Croatia’s attractions inland and on the water.

Numerous offshore islands are linked by ferries and bridges and offer day trip convenience to find even more quaint towns or dazzling resorts.

Among them Korcula is the site of a medieval fortress, has a ship building and seafaring history and was the home of famous explorer Marco Polo. The island of Mljet is also a national park with stunning woodland scenery, walkways and two saltwater lakes for divine swimming in summer.

Away from the coast Plitvice Lakes and the mountains of Paklenici are breathtaking. Amid lakes, waterfalls, rivers, lakes and bush, outdoor adventures include kayaking, walking, swimming, climbing, rafting and the chance to spot rare wildlife.

But it is still the coast that tourists can’t forsake and who can blame them – 600kms of inlets, coves and curves alongside impossibly clear blue waters, all overlooked by hotels, guest houses, vacation villages and self catering apartments, some with their own pools.

If it’s too hard to choose a single location, you can cruise the coast for a week between Split and Dubrovnik. In between you’ll soak up endless sunshine and visits to Hvar, Korcula, Elaphiti, Mljet and Slano.

You’ll find wonderful restaurants serving local wines, beers and traditional Croatian dishes like spit roast lamb, crni rizot (seafood risotto), brudet (fish stew), tartufi (mushrooms), paski sir (sheep milk cheese) and prsut ham.

But best of all you’ll find a surprisingly affordable destination once you get there and a hundred and one reasons to want to stay. Best months to visit are May to September, long haul flight options to Zagreb include departure from Christchurch via Singapore and Dubai or Auckland via Hong Kong and Dubai. So your stopovers enroute are also exciting!

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The Host

Most weddings are eagerly anticipated by the guests, but you can enhance their enjoyment and memories of the day by going the extra mile in planning and preparation.

WITH THE MOST

BEFORE THE WEDDING

Announce your wedding date and send invitations in ample time for guests to plan their travelling arrangements especially from overseas.

For out of town guests provide welcome packs and useful information about locations, transport and accommodation.

Include a wide range of items and prices on your gift register so guests have plenty of choice.

Put up clear signage directing guests to the ceremony and the reception. Reduce the time gap between the ceremony location and the reception venue or consider having a single venue for the convenience of you and your guests.

DURING THE WEDDING & RECEPTION

Ensure the room temperature is comfortable, that there is plenty of seating for elderly guests and facilities for guests to freshen up if they wish.

Seat people together with similar ages and interests and consider organising an activity for guests to mix and meet each other.

Engage a good MC, limit long speeches, make sure your music is not too loud and will appeal to guests of all ages.

Keep children amused with activities and ensure you have accommodated any special dietary needs of your guests.

Be sure to circulate at your reception and be certain to talk to all the guests, even if you haven’t met them before.

Always thank your guests for their gifts and for coming to your wedding, especially those who have travelled long distances to be there.

AFTER THE WEDDING

Make sure your MC or groomsmen check that all guests have transport to their home or accommodation.

Find time to thank the caterers and reception staff before you leave the wedding.You would be surprised how often they are overlooked and will always appreciate your recognition of their hard work to make your day special.

Set up a website for guests to view photos and videos of the day and write to formally thank guests for their individual gifts or role in your wedding.

It has also become customary to give or send flowers to the mothers of bride and groom for their love, support and help at your wedding, or on return from your honeymoon, invite immediate family to a “newly weds thank you dinner.”

Harmony

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DIPLOMATIC

You and your partner plan to marry, your families are delighted, the plans are hassle free, the wedding is beautiful and everyone is in harmony – hopefully!

In terms of stress, planning a wedding can be on a par with moving an entire family to a new start in another country - never again will you have to accommodate the feelings, expectations, questions and arrangements of so many other people, not to mention your own!

As a new couple you will have become part of two distinct families with their own customs, traditions, religion, attitudes, opinions and sense of humour. Becoming accepted and feeling relaxed and comfortable in one another’s family can take time. If it does, try not to force the relationship and remember you haven’t married the entire family, just one member of it!

With increasing numbers of divorces, second marriages, step children, de-facto relationships and merged families, the chances are that you will have to be sensitive to different family situations when planning the guest list. It’s easy to hurt step parents by involving birth parents more than them and vice versa.

Where possible give each of them a role to play and make it obvious that you would like them to share your special day without conflict. But dilemmas arise over who should give the bride away, make a speech, be seated at the head table, bring a new partner or contribute to the cost of the wedding, Reaching a compromise between the wedding you want and the wedding other people expect you to have can be especially difficult, particularly if others are paying the bills! Be firm, share your plans, be realistic about your budget and be gracious but don’t accept a style of wedding you are uncomfortable with.

Brides can choose whoever they like for their attendants and usually it will be close family and friends. While there is no obligation to choose members of the groom’s family, it is a diplomatic gesture that is often appreciated.

Carrying out your wedding plans may require you to be assertive, sensitive, diplomatic, gentle, firm, magnanimous, calm and self assured, to compromise, accept, reject, negotiate and mediate.

If you do it with skill and grace, you can have the wedding you want, and happy harmonious families to share it with!

Remarriage Fashion Dilemma The long beautiful white gown is the dream of most brides, but mature brides or those marrying for the second time may steer away from traditional bridal white.

The alternatives can be just as elegant, not to mention versatile, age-appropriate and able to be worn again.

Evening gowns are a popular choice especially for formal or evening weddings.

The romantic look is retained with soft flowing fabrics or sophisticated style and cut, but often colour plays a bigger

role – anything from cream and pastels to pewter, plum or opal blues and greens.

Elegant suits are always stylish and flattering with a myriad of lengths, shapes and necklines over a dress, or slim line skirt and camisole. Jackets with ¾ sleeves are versatile for any season, while flowing coats in silk or sheer fabrics look wonderful over a simple dress or even palazzo pants.

With cocktail hem lengths currently in vogue, a simple dress or suit can be dressed up with a stunning hair-do, gorgeous hat or fascinator, a wrap, a soft pashina or a piece of beautiful jewellery.

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SIMPLY

Outrageous

PHOTOS BY LITTLENY / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Las Vegas is the craziest place for a wedding and its shameless “over the top” style has developed into a multi million dollar business that conducts over 100,000 ceremonies a year!

The wedding industry developed in Las Vegas alongside the state of Nevada’s “quickie divorce” legislation that also allowed you to marry again immediately. Similarly if you married in haste you could divorce almost immediately and have the marriage annulled.

Las Vegas was one of the first places to create specific “wedding chapels” that were either interdenominational or entirely secular. Unlike many states in America, Nevada requires no blood tests and no waiting.

No-one will judge you and your celebrant may well be an Elvis lookalike, but there are some legal requirements before your nuptials can take place: You must appear in person at one of the city’s Marriage Licence Bureaux with 2 forms of

identity.You must both be over 18 or have parental permission if either of you are younger than 18.You must be unrelated to each other by birth and be free to marry with proof of any previous divorces. It costs USD$60 for a marriage licence, USD$10 for a copy of the marriage certificate and USD$20 for an Apostille of the State of Nevada which proves the legality of the marriage.

Otherwise the sky is the limit and you can avail yourself of the uniquely theatrical wedding services Las Vegas has to offer.You can be married in street clothes, hire any costume you fancy or go the whole 9 yards in a glittering wedding gown. BUT you can’t apparently be married without any clothes!

You can be married in one of the city’s fancy hotels or casinos where more conventional settings include indoor venues, outdoor gardens and rooftop terraces.

BUT you can also be married at a Sunset Strip wedding chapel, a drive through, at a concert, a restaurant or an aquarium with mermaid attendants and the sharks and stingrays as witnesses.

You can also choose to be whisked away by helicopter to or on location in the desert, Lake Mead, the Hoover Dam or the spectacular scale and colours of the Grand Canyon.

Themed weddings are a Las Vegas specialty although Elvis

and Barbie feature prominently at many of them. Among the dedicated wedding chapels you’ll find Graceland Wedding Chapel where “Elvis and Priscilla” weddings are conducted amid a room full of Elvis memorabilia.

The Tropical Viva Las Vegas Chapel features props from Elvis’ Hawaiian films while at the Cupid and Silver Bell Chapels, you’ll be given away by an Elvis impersonator.

In Las Vegas you can also pretend you are somewhere else. There’s a replica Eiffel Tower for romantic Parisien style weddings, a mock-up of the Grand Canal in Venice so you can have your wedding in a gondola and a KISS themed concert venue where a Gene Simmons impersonator makes your heavy metal ceremony “Hotter than Hell.”

If hoopla is not your style you can marry in the low key setting of a Denny’s Restaurant open 24 hours. Tie the knot by day or night and follow it up with a full service bar and pancake stack to celebrate.

Then again you could opt for a wedding at the Tunnel of Love Drive Thru’. What began as a chapel for people with disabilities so they needn’t get out of their car, the drive thru has gained more universal popularity since the 90’s. Complete with provision of your bouquet, buttonhole, pics and DVD of you in the pink

Cadillac, your Elvis celebrant appears at the drive-thru window to hear your vows.

If you prefer a wedding that is brought to you, just arrange a mobile ceremony with the Las Vegas Wedding Wagon. For USD$129 the fancy wagon will arrive at your home, hotel or chosen location and you just step inside to make your vows and pose for your pics.

If a movie or celebrity wedding theme doesn’t excite you, you can decide on a “Lucky Number” wedding like 07/07/17 or your birthday then head for the casino and play lady luck as well. After all you are in Las Vegas.

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Mornington

MELBOURNE’S PERFECT PARTNER

Fancy a honeymoon that combines a vibrant cosmopolitan city with an idyllic peninsula right on its doorstep?

Many of us sample the delights of Melbourne, revelling in its shopping, galleries, events and shows, but when you’ve had enough of the bright lights make your way to Mornington and discover the perfect partnership.

The Mornington Peninsula stretches down the eastern side of Port Phillip Bay and beside its golden sandy beaches, you’ll find relaxation with a capital ‘R’ and a smorgasbord of things to enjoy historically, scenically, gastronomically, adventurously or leisurely.

Mornington is 90 minutes travel time from downtown Melbourne by road, train or bus.

First established as Cobb and Co coach stop between Melbourne and Sorrento, Mornington developed as a popular holiday destination and its micro climate saw market gardens and vineyards flourish.

Among the picturesque little towns and settlements that dot the peninsula, Mt Eliza is a chic mix of old and new, Sorrento is elegant and historic, while Mornington is a boutique seaside village that has been charming

visitors for over a century.

Specialty shops beg you to browse, market stalls invite you to buy from the locals and a raft of restaurants and cafes provide gourmet delicacies, local wines and fresh produce to tempt your taste buds.

When the beach beckons it’s just at the end of Mornington’s Main Street. Crescent shaped bays are bisected by a fishing jetty where the local catch finds its way to a succulent menu at The Rocks restaurant and a row of Victoria’s quaint iconic bathing sheds line up in vibrant colours along the sand.

The waterfront Esplanade is dominated by the Royal Hotel, a colonial masterpiece dating from 1857. Graced with visits

by Prince Alfred in 1876 and the Prince of Wales in 1920, hence its name, its recent restoration offers accommodation “fit for royalty” and a dining destination of genuine nostalgia.

Sorrento was the site of the first settlement in Victoria in 1803 and among the golden glow of limestone buildings, over 30 heritage properties are home to bespoke boutiques, hotels and restaurants. From here there are nature trails to walk, art trails to view and a wine trail of over 50 cellar doors to sample the region’s notable Chardonnays

and Pinot Noirs. Among the best known are Red Hill Estate, Paringa, Willow Creek and the quirkily named Ten Minutes By Tractor.

Ferries operate across the narrow neck of the bay to historic Queenscliff and the start of the Great Ocean Road or you can swim with seals, dive with dolphins, explore underwater wrecks, sail, kayak or take your chances surfing along the wilder eastern beaches.

But one thing you can’t miss is an indulgent soak at the Peninsula Hot Springs Spa where natural warm waters flow into a series of pools amid exquisitely landscaped bush and rock gardens. Twenty different globally inspired bathing experiences include a steam bath, sauna, mineral shower, reflexology walk, cave pool, plunge pool and hilltop tub with 360 degree panoramic views.

A menu of spa treatments offer balm for the body and calm for the soul. Try an Aboriginal kodo or ancient healing stone experience at the Spa Dreaming Centre or a massage to soothe and smooth. Revitalised and refreshed, with on site dining and tranquil accommodation you can day trip or stay over – possibly forever!

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Insurance

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EQUALS PEACE OF MIND

You’ve heard the horror stories of things going wrong at weddings; gowns not arriving; rings being stolen, hotels being flooded, reception venues double booked, photographers becoming ill not to mention cyclones interrupting honeymoon plans ……yet many couples never give a thought to protecting their biggest expense other than a car or a house!

Wedding insurance provides cover in case a pre-booked wedding service is faulty or unable to be supplied before or on your big day. It may seem unromantic but it can offer genuine peace of mind when thousands of dollars are at stake for the event.

Before searching for the best wedding insurance, check first to see if your car or contents insurance company has a relevant policy that is available to you as an existing customer.You may get a discount for your loyalty.

Most wedding insurance policies cover supplier’s products and services from the date of your

deposit and include your wedding dress and your venue, both of which comprise the largest portion of your wedding costs.

Inclusions may involve cancelled venue, stolen rings, non delivery of flowers or cake, liquidation of suppliers, photographer’s equipment failure, breakdown of transport, personal accidents, death or illness of a family member causing wedding cancellation and possible liability of damage to a venue.

However you are not usually covered for a situation you have control over like changing your mind or cancelling a service or

product you can’t afford. They can also refuse cover if you haven’t “minimised risk” such as rings being stolen from an unlocked car or leaving gifts in an unsecured location.

When trying to budget for all the components of your big day, you may view wedding insurance as an unnecessary cost. But it’s a small price to pay if something does go wrong and it’s far cheaper than trying to replace or re-book at your own expense. Don’t forget to insure your honeymoon plans too!

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MAKING

Honeymoon Plans

10

Practical

gifts

YOU CAN AFFORD

• Research various destinations to decide when and where you would like to go • Agree on your ideal holiday: luxury, laid back, adventure, touring or a combination

Wine for their 1st

Anniversary A Visitors Book Iconic Edmonds Cookbook

• Begin saving as soon as the wedding/honeymoon dates are confirmed • Consult a travel agent about destinations, seasons, deals and discounts • Book only what your budget will allow or consider a honeymoon gift registry • Secure your booking with a deposit and pay for loss of deposit insurance • Arrange relevant leave from your employers • Renew passports if necessary and arrange any relevant visas or vaccinations • Confirm all bookings at least 1 month before departure • Buy travel insurance and arrange your foreign currency • Leave an itinerary and emergency contact numbers with someone you trust

Beach towels for

Him and for Her Decorative house  numbers for their home

• BON VOYAGE!

Herb pots for the windowsill

OR

Address labels for the newly married couple A flowering plant for their entrance Travel luggage straps and labels Small home safe for valuables

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Choose

Nelson FOR YOUR WEDDING

Perennially popular for holidays and honeymoons, there are also plenty of reasons to choose Nelson for your wedding too!

WEATHER

With the most abundant sunshine hours in the South Island, the Nelson Tasman region is a delightful wedding destination in almost any season.

VENUES

A variety of venues provide facilities to suit weddings of any size, style and budget; premier city hotel, picturesque village resort at Monaco, function centre near the beach, gracious heritage homes, historic museum, delightful botanic garden setting or one of Nelson’s many wineries.

CUISINE

Nelson’s renowned wines and local produce are sure to feature on your caterer’s menu whether you choose a luncheon, canapé, buffet or fine dining reception.

SCENERY

You’ll also find wonderfully scenic locations for your wedding photos whether it’s the beach, city landmarks, historic homes, beautiful gardens or even on top of the hill that marks the Centre of New Zealand.

ARTISANS

You can’t get married without a ring and in Nelson you’ll find Jens Hansen Jewellers, the maker of the famous ring for the Lord of the Rings Trilogy. For gifts or your registry there are wonderful items Nelson’s renowned artisans at shops, galleries and markets.

ACCOMMODATION

Nelson offers a variety of accommodation to suit you and your wedding guests including hotel, motel, apartment, holiday home or camping grounds.

WEDDING COORDINATORS

Whether you want them to arrange a few details or plan the entire wedding, a wedding coordinator can ensure your big day is a stress free event, especially if you are travelling to Nelson to get married.

PHOTOS BY GRAND MECURE MONACO NELSON

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PHOTOS BY ZVONIMIR ATLETIC / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

WEDDING

Shows

&Expos

Wedding shows and expos have become ideal “one stop” events to provide information, advice and inspiration for couples planning a wedding.

Offering comprehensive information on wedding attire, flowers, jewellery, cars, venues, caterers, wining and dining, chapels, celebrants, locations, photographers, music,

honeymoons and gifts.

Wedding Shows and Expos are an “A to Z” resource where you can browse at your leisure, gather useful information and consult suppliers about their products and services.

You can also discuss your ideas in person with experienced wedding planners who can offer a variety of solutions and options you may not have considered. Shows are also an opportunity to compare the

prices of different suppliers, see the latest styles and trends and try your luck in many of the competitions and giveaways that are often part of each show.

Held in many main centres and provincial towns throughout New Zealand, wedding shows are the ideal way for wedding service providers and customers to “find each another.” Look out for the next wedding show in your area and plan your perfect wedding.

Your

Big Plans MadeEASY the colour of love

Nelson Wedding Show www.nelsonweddingshow.co.nz

Sunday 4th October Saxton Stadium 60 Exhibitors Bridal Fashion Bride of the Year Door Prize Free Jewellery Gift For the First 50 Brides Valued at $139

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YOUR MATES AND

Your Maids But there are a lot more expectations of members in a wedding party today. With bridal couples increasingly footing more of the bill for their wedding, they often expect their attendants to share the costs of their attire, parties, outings, gifts and accommodation.

There is still some hierarchy in the bridal party with designated best Man and Chief Bridesmaid duties, but if there are several groomsmen and bridesmaids they may also be allocated a task or responsibility both before the big day and during the wedding.

PHOTO BY SARAH CLEMENTS PHOTOGRAPY

CHIEF BRIDESMAID’S ROLE

She should be calm, helpful, unflappable, diplomatic, good natured, self assured and also sober and a good friend!

She arranges the hens’ night, is the bride’s confidante and prepares her for the ceremony, arranges the veil and train, holds the bouquet for the exchange of rings, signs the register as a witness, overseas other bridesmaids and helps the bride until she leaves the reception.

Once upon a time, the role of your Best Man and Chief Bridesmaid were limited to arranging a stag party or kitchen evening, getting the groom and the bride to the ceremony on time, holding the ring or the bouquet, making a speech and displaying the gifts.

BEST MAN’S ROLE He should be helpful reliable, punctual confident, diplomatic, crisis proof, sober and a friend! He arranges the bucks’ night, supports the groom before the wedding, looks after the rings for the ceremony, signs the register as a witness, directs guests to the reception, makes a wedding speech, toasts the bridesmaids and reads any congratulatory messages.

PHOTO BY SARAH CLEMENTS PHOTOGRAPY

PHOTO BY TEGAN CLARK PHOTOGRAPY PHOTO BY TEGAN CLARK PHOTOGRAPY

BRIDESMAID DUTIES May include hosting a bridal shower, helping with decorations, place cards and seating plans, being responsible for a bride’s make up kit, sourcing umbrellas, arranging delivery of flowers or cake and overseeing the flower girl before and during the wedding.

GROOMSMEN DUTIES

Attends and assists with the bucks’ night, may be asked to arrange wedding transport for the groom and be responsible for collecting and returning hired suits.

Each groomsmen escorts a bridesmaid at the wedding and to the reception, circulates among the guests to make them feel welcome and may be asked to partner guests for the dance.

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Mild Girls OR Wild Girls Modern brides may opt for a hen’s night of clubbing, cocktails and male strippers, but many of them are choosing more elegant gatherings or restful luxurious timeout with their girl pals.

Girly Gifts It’s not always easy to know what gifts to give to your bridesmaids, so here are 20 suggestions depending on whether your mates are single, attached, married or have a family!

The bride-to-be is usually so bogged down with wedding details and preparations that they are seriously in need of down time that has been organised by someone else! Hens night

PHOTO BY SARAH CLEMENTS PHOTOGRAPY

Their Bridesmaid outfit Sassy shoes An item of jewellery Framed photo of the wedding DVD of the wedding Cookbook Spa treatment Gift voucher Bottle of wine Wine glasses Beautiful scarf or pashmina Cosmetics or fragrance Gorgeous lingerie Elegant mirror Painting or artwork Tableware Toiletries Gym membership Beach bag Sarong and sunnies

GO EARLY GO HIDE GO PAMPER GO HOLIDAY GO TASTE GO LEARN GO WILD

plans should reflect the personality and interests of the bride, so if she has never been a nightclub and late night party girl, why would she start now? Unless she drops hints that she’d like to try the experience for once!

The maid of honour is most often in charge of the hens’ night arrangements, which can be as simple as a beautiful meal in a classy restaurant to a weekend away at a luxury spa. Be mindful of other guests’ budgets and don’t plan something that is financially beyond many of them.

Similarly, ensure the activities you plan are suitable and enjoyable for older guests like mothers and grandmothers. If in doubt plan something they can join in and them do the wilder options without them if you must!

The closer you get to the wedding, the busier the bride will become. So either timetable the weekend well in advance of the big day or choose a pamper session to relax her a few days before the wedding. The latter also means out of town and overseas guests can join in more easily.

- for a breakfast or brunch with champagne - at a resort, bach or holiday home or - at a day spa or weekend retreat - for sun, to ski or see somewhere new - fine wines, high tea, divine dining - at cooking school or craft class - at a show, concert, club or wacky adventure

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Buck Up Boys

Modern Gifts FOR METRO MATES

Monogrammed ipod case Men’s grooming kit Whisky stones Swiss Army knife Leather wallet Industrial style lamp Novelty moneybox for loose change Coffee table book Wine glasses Cocktail recipes and shaker

The traditional bucks’ night has earned itself a reputation for bad behaviour, embarrassing activities and even illegal ones!

But as today’s bucks are now older when they marry (30’s instead of 20’s), the stag celebration is showing signs of being grown up at last.

While there are still raucous nights out that consume vast quantities of alcohol, tour the nightclubs and end chained naked to the railings of a city park, more imaginative and sophisticated options are beginning to be favoured with the emphasis on having fun, keeping it BE ADVENTUROUS BE COMPETITIVE BE SPORTY BE TAUGHT BE HOME BE AWAY

interesting and staying safe.

So instead of thinking of the event as the groom’s “last night of freedom,” look on the bucks’ night as a celebration of friendship and an opportunity, to hang out together with some enjoyable shared activities. It’s usually the role of the Best Man to organise the bucks’ night.

It’s supposed to be all about the groom, so consider his interests more than your own and tailor events for his taste. Keep safety and dignity in mind when planning a bucks’ night.You don’t want arrests, injuries or the groom sporting a black eye for his wedding day!

There may also be out

of town mates or overseas guests who would like to be part of the celebration, so you may need to hold the event closer to the wedding than if most participants are local. Always allow enough time for the groom, wedding party and guests to recuperate before the big day and ideally arrange it a month to 6 weeks beforehand.

Etiquette usually dictates that the best man, groomsmen and guests share the cost of the night out or weekend, but not everyone is financially up for an unlimited budget. So plan activities that won’t exclude some of your mates or put them into debt in order to participate.

- with a bungy jump, jetboat ride, sky dive or rafting trip - at paintball, go karts, bike trail or car rally - at golf, tennis, pool or backyard cricket - a new activity – skiing, sailing, surfing - at a barbeque, wine and dine, beer tasting, poker night - on a fishing charter, road trip, camping or bach weekend

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Dancing UP A STORM

Strictly

Ballroom A couple’s first dance together is a special moment for them and their guests. If you are not an intrinsic or an experienced dancer, you will want easy to learn steps that are comfortable to perform publicly.

If the idea terrifies you, sign up for some basic dance lessons to perfect some moves, then enjoy it, because the guests certainly will! Try some of these:

If there’s going to be music at your wedding, then as the hosts you’ll be expected to dance! Instead of an embarrassing shuffle round the floor, why not approach your first dance as a couple with confidence?

Dancing has become popular again and there is plenty of dance tuition available, both private of in a class. Many dance studios offer special lessons for the bride and groom or even the entire wedding party.

Most dance tutors can help a novice with some simple steps for a first wedding dance, or choreograph a special routine for you to perform at your wedding if you wish. Beyond a one-off brush up of basic moves, you could throw yourself into dancing as a new activity for fun and fitness together!

AWAITING COPY your AdImpress Number: MS1683 Artwork: MS1683 family and Size: 6.4x3 friends Description: MJ’S BRIDAL DANCING with your first Account: dance as husband Colour: F and wife.

Filename: MS1683

MJ’s Bridal Dancing Lessons Choose your dance style and music or let us choose for you. Lessons held in a private studio.

www.mjsbridaldancing.co.nz | 027 306 2842

FOXTROT – is simpler than a waltz and great for a slow music tempo WALTZ – a signature wedding dance, lessons are a must to get the ¾ time SWING – relaxed fun and flirty dance that’s easy to learn and add a dip or spin LATIN – rhumba, cha-cha and salsa are more complex rhythms and need practice HIP HOP – free style moves that are great for the whole wedding party So, choose some music with a definite beat you can follow without losing your way. Then you can put surprisingly simple or repeating steps to the same rhythm with an occasional bit of intricacy to impress if you have the confidence.

AWAITING COPY Ad Number: MS1656 Wedding Dance Choreography Artwork: MS1656 Specialising in a variety of Size: 6.4x3 dance styles, the First Dance Description: THE FIRST DANCE will design and choreograph a dance routine for your Account: special day.

Colour: F Selection of packages and private lessons available.

Filename: MS1656 Contact: 021 22 55 321 | thefirstdance@outlook.co.nz www.facebook.com/thefirstdancechch

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MUSIC MAKES IT

Memorable

ADVERTORIAL

“Music can really make a wedding” says Therese Mitchell who owns and operates DJ Chick, Christchurch’s elite professional mobile disco.

With her team’s many years music experience, including being part of live bands, Therese and her team aim to play the appropriate music at the right time and at the acceptable volume for everyone to enjoy the event!

“We bring life to your party” and for weddings, DJ Chick can provide the ideal music for the ceremony, background music and

reception dance, or all three! It’s important for the wedding couple to discuss the best type of music for their style of wedding. Some want lots of input, while others are unsure of what to select and rely on Therese’s suggestions which often include “a little bit of everything” she says.

Therese tries to get couples to think of their guests rather than just their own music tastes, especially if the ages of guests spans several decades. Therese believes the staff of DJ Chick knows about music and aims to play what people know so that

they will sing along and get up and dance. “We’re passionate about making sure everyone has a good time. If they don’t dance, we haven’t done our job well enough!” she says.

DJ Chick can play anything from the “1920’s to now” but loves to specialize in retro especially the great tracks from the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s that get things rocking. However they’re also versatile enough to play current Top 40 and club style if that’s what is wanted.

While it is unusual to have women as DJ’s Therese says it works well and she has bookings four or five nights each week for birthdays, parties, karaoke, school functions, corporate events as well as many weddings and DJ Chick can tailor a package to suit individual requirements.

Usually they are booked to play for 4 hours “and we play right to the very end of when the venue is booked” says Therese.

With quality portable equipment, bookings include lighting, laptop or CD’s & either Therese herself, or one of her 3 experienced and enthusiastic DJ’s.

DJ Chick Great receptions don’t happen by chance...

Christchurch’s elite professional mobile disco.

Providing high quality, tasteful entertainment for wedding receptions for over 20 years, with the experience and the skill to create something special just for you.

Therese Mitchell (a.k.a DJ Azure) Ph: 349 2501 Mob: 021 216 2610 www.djchick.co.nz djchick@djchick.co.nz

Because the company owns all their own gear, they have control over its quality, use and condition, “We also guarantee to set up quietly and discreetly so as not to disturb any proceedings, but whenever possible we set up in advance.”

Provided there’s a power source Therese says DJ Chick can play anywhere “and we have – halls, paddocks, and even the back of a truck!” With competitive “middle of the road” rates that can be negotiated, DJ Chick offers mobile music to achieve the fun, relaxed, and enjoyable atmosphere that will make your wedding memorable because “great receptions don’t happen by chance.”

2015 and 2016 are already busy for weddings, so book early with DJ Chick to secure your preferred wedding date, perhaps consider a mid week or winter wedding and then leave it to the experts! Ph Therese Mitchell 347 2669 or 021 216 2610, visit www.djchick.co.nz or email your enquiry to djchick@djchick.co.nz

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MURDER MYSTERY DINNER THEATRE

The Perfect Hens’ Night Dinner theatre is an entertainment genre that combines food and a theatrical production.

Ideal for family groups, friends, parties and hens night celebrations, Christchurch’s Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre offers you the fun of participation too!

Hosted at Ferrymead Heritage Park, the company’s newly created murder mystery experience begins with early evening cocktails at Hawaiian Mike’s Margarita Bar and a 3-course themed meal created by the Spit Roast Company.

You will be introduced to the cast and crew who set the scene: a 1960’s Hollywood TV game show “15 Minutes of Fame.” In breaking news, Artie Krenwinkle, the show’s hard drinking, womanising, poker-addicted Producer, has been murdered.

The police have yet to solve the crime, so you, the dinner guests are to use your wits to uncover the culprit!

You are encouraged to dress up in 1960’s costumes if you wish and you are guided throughout the evening’s entertainment which involves the World’s Longest Haunted Tram Ride.

For the rest of the evening you

will be expertly led and misled by the cast until all the case files are exhibited. No detective experience is necessary, but remember, the killer is amongst you as you dine and eventually where, when, why, how and WHO killed Artie is finally revealed!

It’s a great way to celebrate just about anything! You will

AWAITING COPY g..

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be involved throughout the experience, work together or against each other, share a fantastic meal and have an evening of fun and laughter to remember.

Visit www.dinnertheatre. co.nz for further information or phone 359 9556 or email dinnertheatre@hotmail.co.nz for reservations.

“Haven’t laughed that much in ages, thanks guys and girls” Nicola Child

“Last night was so awesome!!! Had me in stitches!! I don’t think I’ve ever laughed so much...” Jay Brandon + Bella Ryder

tor! ght Inspec “Great ni ” Anne McClimont ck ba be ill W

“Thanks team for such a great night!! We came last night + that’s the best fun I have ever had” Natasha Dale

“Congrats for scaring the crap out of me lol” Chelsea Ellis

“Had a brilliant time for my 30th on Sat, thanks guys you rock!” Tina Polkinghorne y. ning yesterda incredible eve “Thanks for the hilarious!” Nina Kyle ly ute sol ab s It wa

show, t night. A+ me night las hryn Wright “Had an aweso t wait to come back” Kat no great cast can

“what a fantastic Saturday night. Margaritas and zombies, what more could you ask for” Lachie Findlater

Ph (nZ) 03 359 9556 | dinnertheatre@hotmail.co.nz | www.dinnertheatre.co.nz

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THE HERITAGE

Hanmer Springs Transform your day into something truly spectacular at the Heritage Hanmer Springs, with majestic mountain views and immaculate gardens providing an amazing backdrop for your ceremony.

This romantic landmark venue has been completely restored to complement an alpine village experience for guests. While you are just 90-minutes from the heart of Christchurch, you’re a world away from the ordinary, in a stunning alpine retreat that will enchant you and your guests.

The Heritage Hanmer Springs team can take the stress away by arranging all the details for your special day – from tailor made menus to pampering massages. There’s a range of venue options - a fabulous Ballroom complete with open fireplace, or a stylish charming and unforgettable lawn wedding in the picturesque gazebo. Walk amongst beautiful gardens for fabulous photographs.

Complimentary honeymoon suite on your wedding night with complimentary bottle of bubbles (conditions apply).

Heritage Hanmer Springs offers elegance, a spectacular location, and personalised service - a wedding destination like no other.

THE HERITAGE

Queenstown

In a world class setting surrounded by lake and mountain scenery, the Heritage Hotel in Queenstown offers is a breath-taking location for wedding, honeymoon or both.

Romantic gardens and a roof top terrace complement elegant indoor facilities so that your wedding can be spectacular in summer or winter.

Here you can breathe in sweeping views across Lake Wakatipu to the Remarkables mountain range and Cecil Peak enjoying an elevated position to capture the essence of this truly world-class property.

Imagine a summer wedding on the hotel terrace with the majestic Remarkable Mountains as your backdrop, or a winter ceremony in

one of the hotel’s stylish function rooms. After your ceremony, the rooftop terrace and landscaped gardens of the hotel will provide romantic backgrounds for your wedding day photographs.

This could be your memorable wedding, in an atmosphere of relaxed sophistication where every detail is taken care of. Whether it is a personalised menu or special after ceremony cocktails, we have the experience to make sure that every detail is taken care of.

Say I do!

All year round at Terrace Downs

Make your wedding one you’ll never forget! We offer multiple locations for ceremony sites, perfect for any season and our reception rooms offer spectacular views of the Golf course and Mt Hutt. Enjoy a delicious menu tailored to your tastes near the crackling fire on a cold Winters night, or relish in the High Country view with a Summer breeze.

Only one hour from Christchurch, Terrace Downs has everything to offer to make your special day a memorable event.

The Events Team at Terrace Downs offer a personalised service and are dedicated to ensure your day is seamless.

Contact us today to start planning your wedding day.

Photos suPPlied by: susannah blatchford PhotograPhy, the heather and doug records & Kenichiro tenjinKi

PHONE (03) 318 6943 wedding@terracedowns.co.nz |

facebook.com/terracedownsresort

www.terracedowns.co.nz

HHAN303 09/15

Stunning destinations, enduring memories.

Heritage Queenstown Impressive weddings that start with a remarkable view.

91 Fernhill Road, Queenstown +64 3 450 1526 weddings_hqtn@heritagehotels.co.nz

Heritage Hanmer Springs A spectacular alpine retreat for a true wedding escape.

1 Conical Hill Road, Hanmer Springs +64 3 315 0065 events@heritagehanmer.co.nz

Create a day to remember. Celebrate at our stunning wedding venues with Heritage Hanmer Springs and Heritage Queenstown. www.heritagehotels.co.nz/weddings

You’re Somewhere SpecialTM