Wairarapa Weddings 2023

In conversation with renowned social researcher Brené Brown, Priya Parker suggests that weddings and civil unions are gatherings that aim to create collective meaning. They’re intentional celebrations of you as people and the life you want to build together. You’re letting your community see who you are as individuals and as a couple. Brené’s own wedding included her walking down the aisle to How Do You Solve a Problem like Maria from the Sound of Music, while wearing a short wedding dress decorated with Texan wildflowers. Afterwards, she and her husband held the reception with kegs and BBQ at the oldest honky-tonk in Texas.

One woman we spoke to, let’s call her Janet, remembers her wedding being taken out of her control by her mother and aunt - nothing went as planned, and nothing she wanted was honoured. The church she and her partner wanted wasn’t available, the bride’s sister (a bridesmaid) refused to attend the wedding rehearsal, and then the groom had a motorbike accident - they didn’t know until the night before the wedding whether the wedding was on. Janet wanted a chocolate wedding cake, but her mother decided it would be fruit.

Janet’s mother bought her daughter a chin to floor cotton nightdress for the wedding night when she’d requested a lacy negligee, and nobody thought to pick up the suits on the Friday when the bride was at the groom’s hospital bed. On the day itself, the hairdresser did a hideous job, one of the matching bridal cars arrived too late to be of use, and the flowers didn’t turn up, so they raided various gardens. Then her aunt took the flowers to put on the uncle’s grave (he’d died that week) when Janet had wanted to keep and press some of them. The photographer was called away and so the bridal party had to rush to have staged photos taken before he left.

At the reception, the person hired to do the music didn’t like Janet’s taste in music and so ignored her requests, and the two families fought over the bar tab.

If you don’t want to look back on your wedding or civil union with distress, you might want to do some intentional planning, and think about contingencies if things don’t go as you intended. This guide aims to give you some ideas to help you design your day in a way that is meaningful to you and that reflects you as individuals and as a couple.

BEFORE THE BIG DAY

the law

Well before the day of the wedding or civil union, there are a few things you might want to think about.

First, are you legally able to tie the knot? Marriages and civil unions can be performed for same-sex and heterosexual couples if these three things are true: neither of you are currently married or in a civil union with someone else, if you’re not closely related by blood, and if you’re 18 years of age or older. If either of you is aged 16 or 17, then permission is required from the Family Court.

Did you know that in the last year, nearly 19,000 marriages and civil unions were registered to New Zealand residents? Of these, two percent were same-sex couples, and 75 percent were first-time unions. Twelve couples changed from a civil union to a marriage. Before the day itself, you’ll need a licence. This will confirm it’s legal for you to marry or union. A licence costs $150, and you need to organise it at least three working days before the ceremony. It expires after three months, however, so don’t get it too early.

THINGS TO DISCUSS

If you haven’t already had these conversations, now might be the time to talk about several things important to compatibility in a union or marriage.

Do you both agree on having children, for example, and will both of you continue to work if you do? Are your religious views similar and, if not, does it matter? Do you agree on where you’ll live together and if you’re saving for a mortgage? What about the in-laws: how often do you each want to see them, are they required to call before dropping by, and are there things you agree are off bounds? Do you need to talk to each other about your levels of debt? What are your thoughts about pre-nuptial agreements?

And then there’s the budget for the wedding or civil union: how much are you both comfortable paying and will you take out finance to pay for the day?

When thinking about the budget, you might want to list all the items you could potentially spend money on and then whittle them down to your preferences and amounts you agree you can afford. Here’s some key items you might want to think about:

 Rings: For one, or both, of the bride and groom.

 Pre -wedding parties: Such as hen’s dos and stag nights.

 Ceremonial fees: Marriage licence, celebrant.

 Venue for the ceremony and for the reception: Venue hire, the hire of furniture, equipment and marquees, decorations, and music/entertainment.

 Catering: Food and drink at the reception, cake.

 Outfits: For the bride: wedding dress, veil and hair accessories, shoes, accessories, lingerie. For the groom: suit, shirt, shoes, and accessories. For bridesmaids, groomsmen, flower girls and pageboys: dresses or suits, shoes, accessories.

 Hair and beauty treatments: For the bride, groom and bridesmaids including haircuts and dos, spas, beard trims or shaves, nails, spray tans, and makeup.

 Flowers: At the ceremony and the reception, (if different venues), as well as bouquets and buttonholes.

 Photography: Photographer, photo booth, videographer, streaming, prints and frames, albums, and USB sticks.

 Accommodation: For yourselves and/or guests.

 Honeymoon.

 Other: Gifts and favours.

 Insurance: In case there’s a flood, an earthquake, an accident or, for some other reason, the show cannot go on.

PHOTO - AUBURN PHOTOGRAPHY

STARTING THE COUNTDOWN

Invites

Save the Date announcements about your wedding or union - whether physical or emailed - are a great way to allow guests to plan ahead and to let them know a formal invitation is on its way. Save the Dates generally go out between four and 12 months prior to your day except, as in the case of Jenna (featured on page 8), you decide one month to get married and are clever enough to make it happen the next. Formal invitations are generally sent out to guests six to eight weeks in advance of your day, although, in the case of destination weddings, it would be wise to issue them at least three months in advance of your wedding or union.

Rings & Jewellery

The formal exchange of rings between two people is thought to have originated in ancient Egypt, when rings were made of hemp, or leather, or reeds. The ring, a circle, has long been a symbol of eternity. An engagement ring often accompanies a proposal and symbolises commitment and loving devotion. Neither engagement rings nor wedding rings are mandatory, however, and it is entirely your decision whether to exchange rings.

Zoë Porter, a jeweller originally from Wairarapa, says that being commissioned to make engagement and wedding rings is the best part of her job. “Whether the ring is a surprise, or perhaps designed together as a couple, it’s always fun to sit down and make those initial plans,” she says. “I’m sometimes asked to make matching earrings as gifts from the bride to the bridesmaids or cufflinks from the bride to the groom,” she says. If Zoë has been commissioned to melt down old family jewellery for reconstructed engagement rings, there can be stones left over. “I can turn these into a necklace for the mother of the bride.”

Masterton Showcase Jewellers in Queen Street can also work with you to find your perfect jewellery for your special day: gold, silver, diamond, and coloured stone jewellery of all types including engagement and wedding rings, watches, and more.

PHOTO - ZOË PORTER

PHOTO - ZOË PORTER

CLAREMONT MOTEL & APARTMENTS

MARTINBOROUGH’S NEW BUDGET CONSCIOUS BOUTIQUE WEDDING VENUE

Five acres of beautifully landscaped grounds with vineyard, rural and mountain views, The Claremont offers a perfect backdrop for your wedding and your photographs.

OUR WEDDING PACKAGES

SMALLER POP UP, INTIMATE ELOPEMENTS & BOUTIQUE FULL PACKAGE WEDDINGS

Let us make your wedding easy … bring your dress, your marriage certificate and your guests (we do the rest)

RENT THE VENUE

• Organise your day just the way you always dreamed … but at your budget.

• Use our private garden space for your ceremony & Onsite Marquee for the celebration.

• BYO alcohol.

• Use the caterer of your choice, a food truck or self-cater…the choice is yours.

• Complimentary use of our tables & chairs, cutlery & crockery & sound system.

BONUS FOR ALL WEDDING PACKAGES:

Two nights complimentary accommodation in a Two Bedroom Unit, (up to 5 guests) PLUS Bridal Suite on your Wedding night

BONUS FOR RENT THE VENUE:

• Two nights complimentary accommodation in a Two Bedroom Unit (up to 5 guests), PLUS Bridal Suite on your Wedding night

• Use of the venue for day after celebrations

NO FUSS POP-UP WEDDINGS

Former Wairarapa College student, Jenna Oakly, and her long-time partner, chose a no-fuss route for their February wedding.

“We decided in January we would get married, we found a pop-up wedding option on the internet, and booked it immediately so we couldn’t change our minds,” Jenna says with a laugh.

She and her partner had been together for nine years and engaged for four, so there’s been a long lead time. Getting married was all about making things official for their children: five-year-old Madison, two-year-old Tyson, and her partner’s 11-year-old daughter Shelby.

“We only wanted a small wedding with about 25 immediate family members,” Jenna says. “When we’ve priced weddings previously, the costs were overwhelming. The pop-up option was $4,500 which, with help from our parents, was manageable.”

Included in this amount was the venue, decorations, music,

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celebrant, flowers, the cake, food and more. Food at the reception included grazing tables and finger food, both savoury and sweet. Alcohol cost extra but was sourced by the venue. And Jenna’s bridal dress was extra too.

“But you do not need to spend heaps on a wedding dress,” she says. “I bought mine from Shein for only $60. My husband’s grandmother is a wonderful seamstress, and she added a few little touches - it looked amazing.” The groom and his best man bought three-piece suits from Hallenstein Brothers.

Two mobile hair and make-up artists were booked to come to Jenna’s mother-in-law’s house (right next door to where the bride and groom live) to do the hair and make-up of the women in the bridal party, “which removed the stress of driving somewhere and getting back on time”.

The bride and groom had a choice of celebrant, who they met beforehand to agree on the ceremony. The venue was booked for four hours, although people could turn up earlier if they wished. “We had family coming from out of town, so flexibility was helpful.”

The venue was decorated for them with elegant, draped curtains and white chairs looking out over a panorama of bush and sky. The venue also recommended a

photographer, who the bride and groom booked for two hours. Did they restrict photos being taken on phones by the attendees? “No, we weren’t that bothered about restricting photos or uploading to social media. We just went with the flow.”

Transport to the venue was low-key. “I hopped into my dad’s ute and everyone else took their own cars,” Jenna says. Her dad is Wairarapa local, Roger Oakly.

Mother-of-the bride, Di Oakly says one of the highlights of the day was “helping Jenna get dressed for the ceremony. I only have one daughter. It was very special.”

“The entire wedding was relaxed. There was nothing for me to do and we all felt pampered,” Di says.

The stress-free approach to getting married, with a month’s turnaround, worked well for this couple. It’s an approach favoured by an increasing number of couples whether it’s a first or second-time wedding or a renewal of vows.

POP-UP WEDDINGS IN WAIRARAPA :

 The Claremont: www.theclaremont.co.nz/weddings

 Brackenridge Country Retreat and Spa: www.brackenridge.co.nz/weddings-at-brackenridge

VENUE DIRECTORY

Wairarapa Weddings 2023

LANSDOWNE HOUSE

The grand dame of an era where gracious dining, and dressing for dinner and dancing, were commonplace. Set in manicured grounds featuring trees dating over 100 years old, visiting Lansdowne House is truly a special experience. Beautiful Rimu panelling is featured throughout, including the grand staircase often used by Brides alighting from the rst oor.

COBBLESTONES

For a memorable wedding have your celebration in our historic church set in two acres of beautiful gardens. You can arrange to use our old coaches and farm equipment as props for special photographs. We can help organise your special day or bring your own celebrant, florist, and caterer. Plus all profits go towards maintaining our wonderful heritage village.

CASTLEPOINT DISTRICT HALL

Need a place to hold that special day? Only a short distance from Castlepoint beach, this great little hall is here for you to hire with kitchen and bar facilities. Hold your ceremony at our hall, or head to Castlepoint, with so many amazing ceremony options available. Tie the knot in the beautiful Church or get married on the beach, then return to the Hall for your reception, just a 4km trip for guests.

THE LANDING AT HOMEBUSH

A standalone venue set in several acres of landscaped gardens that provides a romantic and elegant country setting for your wedding, and is located just 5 minutes from Masterton. Choose to have your ceremony at several of our outdoor areas such as the chapel vineyard, by the rose and ivy archway or in the gazebo. There is tennis, croquet, petanque and giant checkers to amuse the young and the young at heart during drinks/canapes.

GUESTS FOR SIT-DOWN: up to 125

GUESTS FOR COCKTAILS: up to 150

CEREMONY FACILITIES: Yes

CATERING: In-house only

ACCOMMODATION: 6 rooms

15 Keir Crescent Masterton

E lansdownehouse@xtra.co.nz

P 06 378 2097 M 027 220 9874

www.lansdownehouse.co.nz

GUESTS FOR SIT-DOWN: up to 60

GUESTS FOR COCKTAILS: up to 150

CEREMONY FACILITIES: up to 60

CATERING: In-house or own caterer

Cobblestones Museum & Early Settler Village

169 Main Street, Greytown

E cobblestonesmuseumgreytown@gmail.com

P 06 3049687

www.cobblestonesmuseum.org.nz

GUESTS FOR SIT-DOWN: up to 100

GUESTS FOR COCKTAILS: up to 100

CEREMONY FACILITIES: Yes

CATERING: Equipped kitchen & bar

ACCOMMODATION: No

5689 Masterton-Castlepoint Road, Whakataki

E rhondapallesen@gmail.com

P 027 3521 481

GUESTS FOR SIT-DOWN: up to 150

CEREMONY FACILITIES: Yes

CATERING: In House

ACCOMMODATION: 4 BnB rooms

35b Pokohiwi Road

Homebush, Masterton

E info@landingathomebush.co.nz

www.landingathomebush.co.nz

VENUES & CATERING

The internet is a great resource for nding the best wedding venue in Wairarapa for your style of wedding. There are barns, vineyards, olive groves, and woolsheds. There are rural, rustic, and even waterfront options. Many venues can organise catering for you and some enable, or require, you to organise your own.

Masterton’s Le Grá Vineyard and Winery is a magical spot for small to medium weddings and for your special wedding day photos. Catering is possible in the form of grazing tables as well as family-style feasts with big platters delivered to the tables. Le Grá also boasts a vintage drinks caravan, serving up its own boutique wines for every palate.

Another fully catered venue just outside of Masterton is Wingate Lane, accommodating more than 100 people inside and the same again outside. Wedding photos can be taken among the grape vines or under a spreading oak. How about a bu et with three meats (roasted beef, chicken roulade, and lamb), four types of vegetables, a green salad and a cous cous salad, followed by desserts galore?

Cobblestones Museum in Greytown is a romantic venue for ceremonies and receptions, accommodating up to 60 guests. Make your vows in the historic and picturesque church, have your photos taken and reception laid out in the gardens (winter options also available). Appetisers, a bu et, or a high tea are reception options. Alternatively, your preferred caterers can make full use of the facilities. Check out Platter Platter, for example, for an extensive range of grazing tables and bespoke menus.

Tironui Farm, Martinborough, a popular and magni cent wedding venue for up to 120 guests can provide you with a range of caterers which operate from their commercial kitchen. Brackenridge Country Retreat and Spa is a stunning country-style Martinborough wedding venue which can host up to 120 people for your ceremony

and reception, with catering and accommodation options too. It boasts amazing white roses in lush green gardens together with rolling hills and late sunsets to provide the perfect backdrop for photographs.

Masterton’s Lansdowne House, nestled in beautiful grounds with soaring majestic trees, rose gardens, gazebos, waterfalls and more, is a premier wedding venue. Hold your reception in the wood panelled reception rooms complete with chandeliers and leadlight windows.

The Landing at Homebush is another romantic and elegant country setting for your wedding. You can choose to have your ceremony at one of the outdoor areas such as the chapel vineyard, by the rose and ivy archway, or in the gazebo. Reception options range from a luncheon, picnic, high tea garden party or the traditional dinner and dance.

The Masterton Club is reasonably priced and an excellent venue for weddings of all sizes, and with easy access bars. Lots of extras such as room set up, tables, chairs, and white linen are all included in the price. A variety of catering options are available including canapes, bu ets, desserts, cheese platters and more.

Greytown’s White Swan Hotel hosts weddings of up to 75, tailored to your needs and overseen by the hotel proprieter herself, with personalised three course meals.

The wedding venue at Carterton’s Events Centre has options for as few as 20 or as many as 300 guests. There are indoor-outdoor options, and the wooden ooring is great for dancing. And don’t forget Lake Ferry Hotel, a wedding venue with garden bar, restaurant, and stunning view. Castlepoint Community Hall has all the facilities you need for your wedding celebrations too.

So many venue and catering options! One thing they all have in common is their desirability, so you’d better book well in advance.

DOING IT

OUR WAY

Living in a rambling old farmstead set in 12 acres of rural land near Mauriceville, Samantha (Sam) Ell and Johnathon (John) Simpson already have the perfect venue for their wedding in December this year.

“The ceremony itself will be held in front of our vintage sheep shed,” says Sam, “and then we’ll all motor off to Le Grá Vineyard and Winery for the reception.”

With five children between them, two each from previous relationships and one-year old Lilly, the couple will be taking a low key but meaningful approach to their big day.

“Making memories is the most important thing to us,” Sam says. And family is important. “John lost a family member recently, and I have had so much loss in my life. We both need to hold close what we have.”

It was the loss of John’s family member that prompted their decision to get married. Sam gave John silver cufflinks last December, specially engraved with the name and birthdate of the person he lost. And then John got Sam an emerald engagement ring.

“Our wedding will be small – no more than 50 guests - and meaningful. It will not be fancy and there will be no argybargy. We want our guests to finish the day feeling that the wedding was a true expression of us as a couple,” says Sam. The kids will be involved, with Sam’s oldest son walking her down the aisle, John’s son as the ring boy, and the two older daughters as flower girls in fairy dresses. The bride’s

dress was bought online for a reasonable price. It has a seashell bodice and nude underlay, with lacey flowers trailing down it to the floor. And John’s attire? “He wants to wear braces, and has agreed not to wear jeans,” Sam laughs. That’s as far as they’ve got on that front.

Sam’s red hair goes all the way down to her derrière and she intends to show it off on the big day in soft curls and with a flower crown. “My mum’s side is Irish and my Māori granddad on my father’s side had a red beard, so I’ve got the colour from both sides.” As a hairdresser with Headquarters Hair Design in Carterton, and with two of her three bridesmaids’ also hairdressers, Sam’s got the hair side of things well-sorted.

A friend is on make-up duty on the day, Sam’s planning to call on uncles for transport with their matching V8 Holden Monaros, and she’s already ordered the invitations online. Once the party has moved to Le Grá for the reception, a grazing table will be on hand while photos are taken and then, at around 7pm, the kids will all be taken home and dinner will be available for the adult guests.

“We hunt and fish,” Sam says, “so we’ve booked the Caveman BBQ to set up at Le Grá alongside Le Grá’s vintage caravan bar. Caveman BBQ reflects who we are as a couple. There will be no seating chart and people can simply eat, sitting on hay bales, whenever they feel hungry.”

Then there’ll be a honeymoon. “Somewhere nice and hot, with a beach, and out of the country,” Sam says.

Lismore House

Let me tell your love story

Documentary style photography, capturing raw, authentic, genuine moments

Dillon Ahern

WEDDING PLANNING & ALL THOSE EXTRAS

Does the thought of planning your wedding make your head spin? Never fear, help is at hand. The newly established and Masterton-based wedding planner, Paisley & Lace, is just a call away. They can help you design your perfect wedding and, like a project manager, will take charge of all the logistics.

If you’re intending to do your own project management for your wedding, you might want to talk to the Festival Hire + Party team. They are now situated in expansive premises in Thistle Lane off Ngaumutawa Road and have great parking. Festival Hire + Party owned by Shelley and Greg Mason, have a team of 10 staff with years of experience in the industry. Bridal tables have been set up. Talk to the team to find out how Festival Hire + Party can help you plan your wedding. They deliver to the venue of your choice (or you can pick

your items up, but that would be a brave move on the day before your wedding). Shelley says, “we can help you create the wedding of your dreams with no stress and no fuss.”

The Festival Hire + Party team specialises in marquee weddings of all sizes and shapes. It also has equipment galore to complement the style of your big day from start to finish - tables, chairs, linen, food preparation equipment, cutlery, glasses, china, décor options, chandeliers, arches, artificial plants, red carpet, umbrellas to provide shade in summer, heaters to warm up a chilly evening, BBQs and spit roasters, beautiful lighting options, and even portable toilets.

Festival Hire + Party can help you with seating plans and custommade welcome boards, even balloon creations. “If we don’t have what you’re after, we can connect you with someone who does,” Shelley says.

IT’S YOUR STORY

let’s create beautiful memories

Wairarapa’s Wedding Specialists

Paige is a professional and friendly Registered Nurse with a passion for aesthetic nursing. She considers it an art to enhance and individual’s features, to add to their natural beauty. Through the most advanced clinically proven products and treatments.

WEDDING DRESSES

Western wedding dresses have focused on white colours and lace ever since Queen Victoria got married in 1840. In the East, however, red is the preferred colour, which signifies luck. In ancient Rome, brides wore long veils of deep yellow described as the colour of flame: the brides were like torches, bringing light and warmth to their husbands’ homes. Ancient Athenian brides wore long violet or light reddish robes.

Over the last couple of hundred years, a bride’s wedding dress has represented the end of a woman’s identity as an individual and a move to being a dependent wife. It also reflected the family’s image and how wealthy they were. Today, your wedding dress is more likely to signify something different - the end of singlehood accompanied by a new commitment and partnership.

Your dress is also an opportunity to dress up and look great. Your wedding gown is your own little piece of history. You can choose one that reflects you as a person and lets your personality shine through. You want your guests to remember you as a happy bride and groom.

You might want to pick out and order your dress about nine months before the wedding or union. But if your weight changes before the big day, have a seamstress in mind for any alterations. Carolanz in Masterton can alter your dress or even make you one from scratch.

There are some wonderful wedding dress businesses in the lower North Island but, equally, ordering something online can be just as successful and often cheaper. Two of the brides featured in this magazine have done just that.

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HEN’S DOS & STAG NIGHTS

Hen’s parties are designed for the bride and her friends to have a fun time together prior to the wedding. A hen’s do could range from a night of drinking to a meal at a classy restaurant, or even a week-long destination vacation. There are, however, many other options. Tea parties, spa sessions, creative classes with a glass of wine, or something like a bike or walk, are all hen’s do options in Wairarapa.

Brackenridge Country Retreat and Spa offers a range of packages that might be perfect for your hen’s do. How about all having a facial, pedicure, manicure, or head and shoulder massage? Or maybe all of the above? What a lovely way to relax and share time with friends, followed by a glass of champagne.

If you’re an active bunch, you might want to check out the Rahui Coastal Loop, an e-biking trip over three days and two nights. The trip starts at 4pm on day one, leaving from the Woolshed in Tinui Valley Road and involving a 10km ride. Day two is a 34km ride which takes you from The Sow’s Ear to Castlepoint. And day three is a 21km ride back to the Woolshed by lunchtime. E-bikes are for hire, or you can provide your own.

Ventana Creative Collective can help you throw a hen’s do that the bride will never forget. Ventana in Martinborough offers fun activities like flower crown-making, painting, and clay sculpting. Your party can come to the Ventana Studio or Ventana can bring the party to where you are staying. Let your creativity run wild and make some unforgettable memories together.

Stag nights. The groom and his mates traditionally get to let their hair down before the day of the wedding or union. Wairarapa is packed with wonderful eateries and bars. If it’s physical activity options you’re after, however, you could go fishing, golf, hiking, or biking. You could get creative and set up a poker night or simply chill out over a BBQ and beer. Whatever you decide, have fun.

FREE SPIRITS

When they married in June 2023 at Castlepoint, Tom and Jordan Tasman had already been together for 10 years. And they’re both only in their early 30s.

Doing life their way, the English couple has been touring the world for much of their time together. They settled in New Zealand before the first Covid lockdown, have residency here, and are currently travelling the country in a camper van.

“We’ve wanted to get married ever since Tom proposed seven years ago,” Jordan says, “but we were waiting for family and friends to be able to share it with us. We finally

realised in May this year that it was difficult for people to come all this way, so we just went ahead and took the plunge.”

Tom has given Jordan permission to speak on the couple’s behalf. “I usually do,” Jordan says with a chuckle.

With just two weeks planning, they decided on an ocean setting for their wedding. “The ocean holds deep meaning for us both,” Jordan says. Passing through Wairarapa with their van, they engaged Wendy Morrison as their celebrant: “She reminds me of my mum”. Wendy suggested Castlepoint as the wedding venue, and her husband and

Lucia Zanmonti, their photographer, agreed to act as witnesses. The couple drove to Castlepoint’s campground a few days before the wedding and parked up in readiness.

When Tom and Jordan left behind UK careers in the police and in property, respectively, Jordan made an undertaking he was never going to wear a suit again. For their wedding outfits, therefore, they made a trip to Cotton On and decked themselves out in pastel-coloured linens with a beachy feel.

Their wedding rings are matching white gold and diamond made by Michael Hill. “We bought antique rings in a shop in Tauranga which we were intending to have remade to our design, but that turned out to be a costly palaver.”

After a moving ceremony on the beach and Lucia’s wonderful photographic record of their wedding, Tom made his famous chilli margaritas and they had a disco in the van. “We plan a big honeymoon next year,” Jordan says, “back to Europe and the UK for a while.”

But they won’t stay away. “We experienced life as restrictive in the UK,” says Jordan. “In Australasia, we feel free.”

Follow Tom and Jordan’s travels on www.tasmantravels.com and Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube @TasmanTravels.

SPOILT FOR CHOICE WITH ACCOMMODATION

When organising a wedding or civil union in Wairarapa, you’re spoilt for choice for accommodation options. There are possibilities to suit your budget, size of gathering, and preferred proximity to the venue for the ceremony or reception. If you want to ensure the bridal party, the groom’s family, and key guests are coming to the wedding no matter what, it might be a good idea to have them stay near the wedding venue.

At Le Grá Vineyard and Winery just outside Masterton, for example, newlyweds have their own hideaway for the wedding night, situated right next to the vines which could also be the setting for one or both of their vows and reception.

Lismore House in Martinborough has the Lismore Barn for the newlyweds and five luxury bedrooms in the House itself for friends, family, or the bridal party. The Lismore setting is also a suitable venue for small weddings or elopements, so you could package it all up.

Brackenridge Country Retreat and Spa has eight two-bedroom cottages, two fourbedroom cottages, and eight studios available, accommodating up to 64 guests onsite. All guests receive complimentary continental breakfast provisions and have use of the indoor heated lap pool and gym.

The Claremont Motel & Apartments, also in Martinborough, have eight self-contained motel units, eight executive studios, and five twobedroom apartments – perfect for the bridal party, the groom’s party, and even some guests. Boutique weddings and elopements are also possible at Claremont’s five acres of gorgeous private gardens. Lansdowne House on the edge of Masterton can hold ceremonies and receptions for up to 150 guests, but also has accommodation on site. In the House itself, there are two large suites and a further substantial double room. In the Lansdowne Villa, you’ll find a self-contained spacious retreat with three double bedrooms with queen sized beds – great for the bridal party.

When you’re booking the venue and the catering, you might want to think about booking accommodation at the same time.

PHOTOS - LUCIA ZANMONTI

Transport can be the last thing on your mind when planning a wedding but it’s one of the most responsible things a host can organise. It eliminates logistical, organisational, and drink driving issues for your guests. It offers you flexibility when choosing a venue for your special day, especially if the venue is remote. And you’ll be confident your guests will arrive safely, in comfort, and on time.

Booking a Tranzit coach or coaches will ensure everyone is transported safely and without hassle. They’re experts in event transport. Before the big day, simply confirm with Tranzit your passenger numbers, times, and pick up-drop off locations. Tranzit has different vehicles to cater for any number of people: from mini vans to double-deckers.

Party HenParty

Wai Shuttles is a great way to herd smaller numbers of people between venues on your big day or for hen’s dos and stag nights. If you’ve got people flying in from other places, never fear: Wai Shuttles do runs between Masterton and Wellington Airport.

If you want to arrive and leave the wedding in style, Carterton’s Classic Rides has cars to suit all occasions, from the 50’s to the 90’s, from a luxury limousine to a two-seater roadster. You can drive yourself or hire a driver. Or if you’re looking for something a bit fancy for your hen’s do or stag night - maybe a picnic in the country or by the sea, or a visit to a winery or country pub - Classic Rides can sort you out. They’ll also provide picnic hampers, rugs, folding chairs and tables, and beach umbrellas.

PHOTO BY MEL WAITE

MAKING CAPTURING MEMORIES

Wedding day photography is special. Photos will tell the story of your event unfolding but will also capture the poignant moments, the love, the laughter, and the pure pleasure of your day and the bond you have as a couple.

Having your day recorded in photos is a treasure. You will be able to share your love story with family and friends over decades and generations. You might also want to book a videographer for an additional record of the best moments of the day.

Sam, the owner operator of Wairarapa’s August & Vine, has been a photographer for all the years she can remember. Before each wedding, Sam talks with the couple to learn about their story and how their day will unfold. She’s familiar with all the Wairarapa venues and can recommend videographers too. She takes candid shots throughout each wedding to capture the moments and emotions of the day using natural lighting.

In the portrait session with the couple, Sam makes suggestions to capture real interactions between the pair. She creates meaningful work to shows how it felt to be

AND

there, leaving you with lifelong memories to treasure. Her website notes the quote from the poet Hafiz: “Your heart and my heart are very, very old friends.”

Professional wedding photographer Dillon, and former Wairarapa College student, is the owner operator of D.A Photography. He says, “the satisfaction I get from being able to create life-long memories for my couples is what keeps me motivated and keeps my passion alive.” In the season where there are fewer weddings (i.e., winter), Dillon can be found honing his skills with magnificent shots of landscapes, sunsets, and sunrises. Package it all up, and it’s a magical thing.

Jess Manthey from Auburn Photography believes in capturing moments that you will look back on and feel something real. “I love capturing love and tailoring my work to every couple,” she says. It’s a good idea to book your photographer a year in advance, especially if the wedding or union will be held on a Saturday. But you have more scope with elopements – they may not need to be on a Saturday! You might also want to hire Snapped Ya’s photobooth for your reception, offering guests all the fun of quick snaps alongside the professional photos from the day.

PHOTO - AUGUST & VINE

CELEBRANTS AND CHURCHES

Celebrants come in all shapes and sizes and are encouraged to work with couples to provide weddings and civil union ceremonies that meet their needs. They’re responsible for ensuring that all legal requirements are met, and help couples design their ceremony and agree on vows.

You’ll want to decide the tone of your ceremony and use your venue choice as a guide for the type of celebrant that works for you. It’s important to choose a celebrant you like. Meet your potential celebrant in person at least once, but the more times you do meet, the better you’ll get to know each other. Ask questions to discover if you feel comfortable talking to them about what you and your fiancé want.

Jody McCartney, a Martinborough-based celebrant, travels all over Wairarapa and down to Wellington and attends all types of unions.

“I’ve officiated at over 150 weddings to date,” she says, “ranging from elopements to large weddings, home-based Indian weddings, gay weddings, and a Jewish marriage with the glass-breaking and ‘mazel tov’ ritual.” Jody says: “It is such a privilege to be part of, and to honour, people’s families and cultural traditions.”

Celebrant Wendy Morrison, based in Gladstone, is coming up for six years as a celebrant. “Last season was a massive covid-catch up wedding season,” she says. Wendy got to marry Tom and Jordon out at Castlepoint (featured on page 18) and to officiate at some large Māori weddings. “I love the celebrations, meeting people from all walks of life, and visiting great Wairarapa venues. It is a privilege and a delight to announce people as married.”

Gillian Jones, another local celebrant says, “I look forward to bringing my natural energy, warmth, and inclusiveness to ensuring your important day is memorable. Whether you’re getting married, celebrating a civil union, eloping, or renewing your vows, I will work with you to create a unique, personal, and respectful ceremony to reflect your special occasion.”

When you find the right celebrant, book them in as soon as possible to lock them into your wedding date, and make sure they’re registered with the Department of Internal Affairs and are a member of The Celebrants Association of New Zealand. It’s also a good idea to get a signed contract with them to cover everything that you both expect of each other, including cost. Then it’s time to sit back and trust in the celebrant’s ability to deliver the perfect wedding for you on the day.

If you’re planning a religious ceremony, the Burnside Church on Lake Ferry Road, Pirinoa, is a magnificent option for your vows.

CUSTOMISE YOUR PLANNER

EXPEDITED PLANNING

If you’re eloping or have decided on a ‘pop-up’ approach or have a short lead time to your special day (weeks or a month, for example), there won’t be so much for you to plan.

Some key things to think about - all at once - are:

 Applying for your wedding licence and securing a celebrant.

 Deciding where to hold the ceremony and, if appropriate, booking the venue.

 Deciding about whether you’re having guests - and then inviting them.

 Buying your wedding out ts.

 Determining whether you’re having a reception and where you plan to hold it.

PLANNING FOR A MORE TRADITIONAL WEDDING OR UNION

In the year leading up to your more traditional wedding or union, think about contingencies in case the weather turns nasty, an accident happens, or some other mishap occurs.

12 MONTHS TO GO

 Settle on the size and type of wedding, the number of guests, and your budget.

 Pick the date.

 Reserve a venue.

 Meet a photographer with your ideas and budget, and book them in.

 Meet and book a celebrant or o ciant.

 Start drafting your guest list.

11 MONTHS TO GO

 Pick your wedding party.

 Begin shopping for clothes.

 Start searching for your orist, band, and caterer, if appropriate.

PHOTOD.A

PHOTOGRAPHY

10 MONTHS TO GO

 Finalise your guest list and send out your ‘save the date’ invites.

 Visit your florist with your ideas and budget, and book them in.

 Book your band or DJ

 Visit your rental company to determine the list of things you’ll need to hire and book them.

TAKE A BREAK

Take a break for a few months and let things consolidate. Catch up with yourself. Go back over your plans and see if there’s anything you want to change.

5 MONTHS TO GO

 Select and purchase invitations.

 Start planning your honeymoon and, if relevant, check your passports are up-to-date.

 Order jeweller y & hair accessories.

 Book accommodation near the venue for you and your partner before your special day and for your wedding night. Book accommodation for your wedding party, if relevant.

 Arrange transportation on the day for your guests and the bridal party.

 Start designing the event schedule for your wedding day.

4 MONTHS TO GO

 Select and order the cake.

 Decide on the hen’s do and stag night party and book them.

 Purchase wedding shoes and accessories. Have a dress fitting.

 Schedule your hair and make-up trials.

3 MONTHS TO GO

 Sort out your wedding licence.

 Send out invitations.

 Finalise the menu and flowers.

 Purchase gifts for your wedding party and favours for your guests.

 Purchase the rings if you haven’t already.

 Send your event schedule to the venue.

 Make a list of people giving toasts.

 Book spa treatments.

2 MONTHS TO GO

 Meet the photographer.

 Review playlist with the band or DJ.

 Touch base with the venue, caterer, hire company, florist, and any other relevant vendors to confirm arrangements and answer any last-minute questions.

 Have the hen’s do & stag night party.

1 MONTHS TO GO

 Enter RSVPs into your spreadsheet of guests. Phone people who are yet to respond.

 Send out as many final payments as you can.

 Do a seating plan for the reception.

 Write your vows, if this is something you’ve decided to do.

 Have your makeup and hair trial.

2 WEEKS TO GO

 Give directions to drivers of transport for the wedding day.

 Pack for your honeymoon.

 Send your event schedule to the wedding party.

1 WEEK TO GO

 Delegate small wedding day tasks.

 Pick up your dress (if you don’t already have it).

 Confirm arrival times with venue, together with guest list and seating plan.

 Send the final guest list to the cater.

24 HOURS TO GO

 Check you have everything you need for tomorrow.

 Relax with the wedding party.

WEDDING DAY

Have a wonderful day with your partner – it’s all about you two.

Give yourself an ample amount of time to test and consider beauty looks by scheduling makeup and hair style trials three to six months before your wedding day. You’ll want to think about hair and make-up options for the bride, any bridesmaids, and the mothers of the couple.

Professional makeup artists are trained in contouring the face, accentuating your best features, and using products that give perfect coverage to last all day - only lipstick will need to be touched up. The aim is for you to glow in your wedding photos.

Jenna, Sam, and Hannah (all featured) have favoured mobile hair and make-up options – people who can travel to where they are in the morning. This avoids travel and stress. If you’ve chosen Brackenridge Country Retreat and Spa as your wedding venue, the on-site spa o ers bridal make-up packages.

Prior to the big day, you might want to visit the Brackenridge Country Retreat and Spa in Martinborough or Serene Beauty Therapy in Carterton for waxing, eye enhancements, manicure and pedicure, body tanning, a facial, or even a massage to help you ease away any worries leading up to your day.

Or you may choose a less-costly approach to make-up and skin care. If so, visit Life Pharmacy in Masterton (or online) for make-up, nails and lashes, perfumes, skin care, and hair care options. If you’ve decided on a bit more of a lift, Paige Gray Appearance Medicine holds Wednesday clinics in Lansdowne, o ering muscle relaxants, microdermabrasion, derma llers, and more.

The key to feeling great on the day, however, is to have your hair styled and your face decorated to suit your personality, the weather, and your dress.

PHOTO - AUBURN PHOTOGRAPHY

GROOMS GROOMING

If grooms want to glow as much as any bride, then a hair and make-up specialist on the day (just for them) is a good idea.

Grooms, you can prepare for the day with a great haircut. General advice for on the day itself is to use hairspray rather than gel or wax (if you style your hair, that is). This maintains structure without looking stiff or shiny.

You might want to get some advice about your skin and hands, and it’s best to make a conscious choice about what to do with your beard or moustache. Wayward hair from all sorts of places can be trimmed away.

Just like the bride, you might decide on a body wax, tan, pedicure, and relaxing massage. Why not get the works? And on the day, don’t forget to smell good.

I don't do the traditional thing - I'm here to capture those raw, unposed, in-between moments. The moments that'll help you to relive your day for many years to come

auburnphotography.co.nz

PHOTO - D.A PHOTOGRAPHY

Photographer | New Zealand & Worldwide

CHEERS TO DAY AND YOUR LIFE TOGETHER

If you want to enjoy your day and have great memories of it, you might decide to pace your alcohol intake. Alcohol makes you tired and you don’t want to burn out before the real party has started. Maybe just one mimosa with a hearty breakfast and one glass of champagne while you’re getting ready with your men and women of honour (bridesmaids, groomsmen, men of honour, best women, and so on). Don’t forget the entire day is being captured in photos and video, and you want to look your best.

A wedding expert recommends that once your hair and makeup start, then it’s time to stop drinking for a while. “You don’t want to mess up your look or, worse, get anything on your beautiful wedding dress,” she says. “And stopping drinking around the time you do hair and makeup should also provide you with enough time to get the alcohol out of your system before the ceremony starts.”

The couple and their wedding party often want to share a special drink before or after the ceremony. But, if it’s your choice to drink glasses of champagne all day and all night too, then go for it! If you have a special choice of whiskey, that’s become a wedding tradition too.

However, alternating your drinks between one alcoholic beverage followed by a non-alcoholic one is one way to help pace your alcohol intake. What about a lemon and bitters in between glasses of Wairarapa’s amazing local wine? You may decide to talk to your men and women of honour, too, about how you’re relying on them to help the day go well which might require them to regulate their alcohol intake.

Often, portrait photos are taken after the vows while guests mingle with a drink and some nibbles before the meal. This may take an hour or two. Don’t forget to provide nibbles or a grazing table to help your guests pace themselves. And if you need a chiller for the day, talk to Brooks Refrigeration Services.

YOUR

PHOTOAUBURN PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO - AUGUST & VINE

Martinborough Vineyard foleywineclub.co.nz

WINE DIRECTORY

Wairarapa Weddings 2023

750 ML

Le Grá

Vineyard legra.co.nz

Te Kairanga Vineyard foleywineclub.co.nz

Matahiwi Estate matahiwi.co.nz

Matahiwi Estate matahiwi.co.nz

Luna Estate lunaestate.co.nz

2023

750 ML

Alexander Vineyard alexandervineyard.co.nz

Palliser Estate

Moy Hall

Martinborough moyhall.nz

Johner Estate johner-estate.com

2021 TE TERA PINOT NOIR 750ML

2022 TE KAIRANGA RUNHOLDER CHARDONNAY 750ML

2023 MOY HALL ROSE

2020 ‘THE GRIFFIN’ MÉTHODE TRADITIONNELLE

palliser.co.nz

2022 DUSTY ROAD PINOT NOIR

2018 METHODE TRADITIONNELLE 750 ML

LUNA SPARKLING ROSÉ PINOT NOIR ROSÉ NV

2022 PINOT ROSÉ FRIZZANTE

MATAHIWI ESTATE WINERY BRUT ROSÉ NV 750ML

MATAHIWI ESTATE WINERY BLANC DE BLANC NV 750ML

COMBINING TRADITION, MEANING, AND FUN,

“Lots of our friends and both sets of our parents have had long-lasting marriages,” Hannah says. “We want to emulate that. And we want our wedding day to remind people of the beauty of marriage.”

They had their first date out at Ngawi about five years ago. The couple have since heard that Hannah’s parents, who farm in Martinborough, had their first date at Ngawi too. It’s become a ritual for Hannah and Richard to go camping and surfing at Ngawi each New Year. It was 31 December 2022, just as they were watching an extraordinary sunset (see photo), when Richard proposed.

Hannah and Richard are leaving as little as possible about their wedding to chance.

They’ve chosen Tironui as the venue. “It is versatile because it has rainy day as well as outside seating options.” The wedding will be held in a romantic olive grove and the venue has beautiful options for photography including an archway in the olive grove and, up the hill, a view of Wairarapa valley which is magnificent at sunset. “We’re aiming for rural but also classy and classic.”

Tironui lets the bride and groom provide their own beverages and catering. “We’re bringing local beer and wine which will work well since the venue has keg taps and a fantastic bar set up,” Hannah says.

They’ve hired Le Grá Vineyard and Winery for catering. They’ll

provide grazing platters before dinner while the photos are being taken and then dish after mouth-watering dish will be delivered to the tables so people can help themselves: chicken two ways, Moroccan spiced lamb, lots of seasonal vegetables, salads, and more. Hannah likes the idea of guests being able to stay seated and enjoy their conversation. “It’s family feast style dining.” All dietary requirements, including allergies, will be catered for.

Many of the 70-strong guest list, including local family members are taking a ‘risk adverse’ approach and staying in Airbnb’s in Martinborough before the wedding. Martinborough Fair is on the same day as the wedding and the roads will be busy.

The formal wedding ceremony will be held in the afternoon on the day, officiated by celebrant Lisa Cornelissen, based in Martinborough. “I like that she is local and, therefore, not far away when it comes to the preparations,” says Hannah.

As well as the formal ceremony, the couple anticipates sharing their own vows in private up on the hill and while photos are being taken. The photographer will be August & Vine, who is Martinboroughbased. “Owner operator Sam is professional,” Hannah says. “She takes candid shots and is great if you get selfconscious in front of the camera.”

The bride’s dress is from Hello Romeo, now based in

but without stress

Wellington but formerly from Martinborough. The dress is made in white glitter tuille, with the bodice covered in pearl-like beading that trails vines down the gown, and has a rum-coloured underlay. The V-shaped back is framed in beading and with white mesh. The groom will wear a charcoal suit and white shirt.

Transport to and from the venue for the day will be Hannah’s father’s 1956 red and white Chevy, and a matching car owned by his friend. Classic cars indeed. The couple plan to combine their honeymoon and Hannah’s 30TH birthday, taking a month away somewhere warm where they can go surfing.

lake ferry hotel

Ngawi, where Richard proposed

The function room with verandah areas extending to an extensive garden bar overlooking Lake Onoke to the Orongorongo Ranges and Palliser Bay.

The perfect Wedding venue with a view

DECORATIONS, GIFTS, & FAVOURS

Reception decorations

If your wedding reception venue hasn’t already been decked out for you, and you’re looking for help to perfect the vision for your wedding day, Festival Hire + Party may be a good place to start for decorations, centrepieces, and accessories from shepherd’s hooks to table scatters, vases to wishing wells, and napkins to candle holders.

Candy bar at the reception

If you plan to offer kids (of all ages) the option of handfuls of candy to keep them going before and after the wedding meal, The Lolly Jar in Greytown can sort you out. You can choose a pick ‘n mix of your favourite sweets from all over the world from bon bons to chocolate. Candy buffet jars are also available for hire or purchase.

Gifts and favours

Depending on your budget and style of wedding, you might want to give your guests each a personalised wedding favour. Small containers of lollies are an option. One bride told us she and her husband gave every guest a decorative bottle of homemade mead. The giving of gifts to members of the bridal party can be a lovely way to thank your team for supporting you leading up to and on your special day. From Wairarapa’s Masterweave Textiles, you can purchase luxury alpaca and mohair throws and scarves, all packed up in gorgeous gift boxes. What about engraved cuff links or hip flasks? Or matching silk robes, pajamas, or bridal purses or clutches. Have fun finding and giving your special gifts.

The Lolly Jar can provide the perfect sweet treat for your special occasion. Choose from an extensive variety of lollies from all over the world. Fantastic for favors and brilliant for buffets. We also have a range of gorgeous candy buffet jars available for hire or purchase.

130 Main Street Greytown

www.thelollyjar.co.nz

thelollyjargreytown@gmail.com

0274 225 566

www.facebook.com/thelollyjarnz

Cakes at a wedding or civil union today have roots that reach back into ancient Rome. Marriage ceremonies ended with a wheat or barley cake broken over the bride’s head for luck and fertility.

Today, we focus on eating the wedding cakes instead, and they’re considered to bring good luck to everyone who does so. Made with an abundance of good quality ingredients, the cake symbolises a long-lasting, rich, and happy union. The bride cuts the first slice of cake to provide for her good fortune in the marriage or union. Slices of cake can also be kept for people unable to attend the reception. One cake-maker says that before deciding on a cake, it’s always a good idea to do a fun tasting session for the couple or a wider group of their friends.

“Back in the day,” she tells us, “Wedding cakes were always fruit, presumably because they would last longer.” Today, you can choose your own. So, for a tasting, she might provide samples of chocolate, lemon and yoghurt, carrot, and banana cakes.

CAKES GALORE LE GRÁ MEANS WITH LOVE

And then there’s the all-important frosting. “Chocolate mousse, peppermint, caramel frosting with salted caramel drizzle, or lemon curd and cream cheese, or even with a dash of gin … and would you prefer a crisp fondant, a butter cream, or a nude cake with differently flavoured cream between each layer, with a dusting of icing sugar.” Things to think about include the number of guests, whether the cake is dessert or a post-dessert nibble to mop up alcohol, and how you want the cake to be decorated. You might choose simple criss-crossing blue ribbons, or roses and lavender with doves, all of which can be eaten. Elaborate stencilled designs matching the colours of the bridesmaid’s dresses or the invitations? Or something that represents you as a couple, maybe even Lego people, or your names in chocolate, on top?

Today, no longer confined to fruit and white fondant cakes, make your cake meaningful to you both.

Photo/Mel Waite

Photo/Mel Waite

INVOLVING CHILDREN

About one-quarter of marriages and civil unions are second or third timers, and often involve the blending of families. The weddings of Jenna and Sam (both featured) are great examples.

Giving children a role for the ceremony, depending on their age, can be both fun (because it’s a bit unpredictable) but also engaging and captivating. It’s also a way to make them feel part of the team and not as if they are outsiders.

Some options for children on the day include roles as junior bridesmaids, ower girls, or page boys who hold the rings or present a horseshoe. They could throw confetti, sprinkle rose petals, blow bubbles, and be included in your rst dance.

Before the day itself, they could write letters to include in a time capsule, write place cards, or decorate mason jars for ower on the tables. Giving the children a thoughtful gift on the morning of your ceremony is a way to pause and spend a moment with them in the middle of chaos. Even your cake topper could be made to re ect all the people being joined together in your family.

PHOTO - LINDA G

PHOTO - LINDA G

STRIKING A CHORD

Your musical tastes will be as individual as you as a couple but, one thing is for sure, you will want different types of music at different stages of your day.

For the ceremony itself, you’ll probably want to be serenaded down the aisle to music with deep personal meaning. After your vows, you could be proclaimed as committed partners with a different sort of song.

For both your vows and, later, the speeches, it could be helpful to have a wireless microphone on hand, and you might also consider whether an MC is a good idea for your wedding.

You could opt for light acoustic music during drinks and canapés, as your guests mingle and talk. During dinner, a low key and personally crafted playlist might be the order of the day. After dinner, when you and your guests are ready to dance the night away, upbeat classics and modern hits could be just the thing, with a cover band or a DJ.

Some musicians can give you a package deal covering all musical delight aspects of your wedding, or you might decide to divide and conquer. Either way, good luck with striking the right chord for your very own and unique day.

PHOTO - D.A PHOTOGRAPHY

FLOWERS & THINGS

Flowers are chic, timeless, beautiful, and ooze romance. They add something special at a wedding whether they’re held, worn, used to adorn arches, or decorate the venue and tables.

Bouquets, arrangements, & more

Roses, associated with love and romance, are everlastingly a wedding favourite. Hybrid tea, spray, and garden are the main types of roses featured in wedding bouquets and oral landscapes. Trailing white or pastel roses paired with deep green eucalyptus leaves can be chic or boho, depending on your look, and are currently in vogue.

Depending on the season, other favourites include peonies, ranunculi, hydrangeas, and sweat peas. Gardenias are elegant blooms with a sweet fragrance and are popular as wedding table décor because they don’t have a stem.

For a classic look, the cloud-like blooms of hydrangeas can be included in wedding bouquets together with roses and fresh foliage or, for a more contemporary vibe, combine hydrangeas with orchids. And their blowsy shape makes them perfect for table landscapes and large arrangements.

Couples are advised to drop into their orist the day before the wedding, to ensure the owers are coming together according to your vision. Then someone in your party can pick them up on the day.

Masterton’s La Fleur Florist and Carterton’s Pick a Lily Florist & Gifts are both available for your wedding ower needs from bouquets to buttonholes, corsages to cake sprays, table arrangements, and reception owers to church owers. Most couples email the orist well in advance to lock in availability and request a price for their requirements.

Hair pieces

Flowers in the bride’s hair can look e ortlessly stunning. You have so many options: a solo bloom, delicately decorated braids, a classic ower crown, whimsical up-dos with roses, headbands, fairytale touches using baby’s breath, a delicate oral hair comb, or a pop of colour. There’s a oral touch that’s perfect for you, whatever your hair style.

Gardenias are a familiar sight at boho weddings, where they look amazing as a single- ower corsage or hair accessory. And they’re stunning in a ower crown.

PHOTOAUGUST & VINE

TWO HEARTS, ONE LOVE, & COUNTLESS ADVENTURES

After the planning, stress, emotions, talking, eating, and dancing all associated with your big day, taking a week or a month out for a honeymoon often sounds delightful for a newly committed couple. It can give you an opportunity to review your wedding day and consolidate the next steps you’re going to take together into the future. You can recharge your batteries.

And with the world accessible again, you’ll be able to find something perfect to suit all honeymoon interests and budgets.

If your preference is to remain in Aotearoa New Zealand for your honeymoon, you could be lured by the idea of one of our luxury lodges known for their natural beauty, breathtaking views, and activities such as horseback riding, sea kayaking, fly fishing, animal encounters, golfing and more. Wairarapa even boasts some of these lodges, and you are welcome to arrive by helicopter.

If it is star gazing, kiwi spotting, and native bush walking you’re after, you could take a trip to Rakiura Stewart Island and stay in a luxury PurePod or hide away in one of Wairarapa’s boutique offerings while scheduling an experience at Pūkaha.

Or you might be tempted by seven days and nights taking in the canals, storefronts, antiquities, and stunning landscapes of Italy, in which case, Lynne Carlyon from Masterton’s NZ Travel Brokers can help you. She can also offer you a 21-day Passage to India experience, an opportunity to retrace Marco Polo’s voyage from Bangkok to Athens, or a warm and relaxing retreat at a Pacific Island. For luxury African travel, talk to Kutwelo about a honeymoon of a lifetime.

Two hearts, one love, and countless adventures.

CARTERTON EVENTS CENTRE

SATURDAY 26 AUGUST

7PM SUPPER INCLUDED DOORS OPEN AT 6:15PM BAR AVAILABLE

TICKETS ON SALE NOW

Tickets can be purchased from Evans of Masterton for $30 (cash only) OR

Online at Carterton Events Centre for $30 + fees

It is our great pleasure to be able to welcome you to the 53rd Wairarapa Bride of the Year. This year’s event is a chance for us to celebrate the wedding industry of Wairarapa, to highlight the awesome providers and businesses that make the weddings happen, celebrate beautiful weddings, and of course raise funds for Wairarapa Plunket.

We are thrilled that last year’s competition raised enough money for the purchase of a sink and vanity for their Masterton o ces. Plunket plays such a signi cant role in the development of the health and wellbeing of children and their whanau during those crucial early years. Many of our committee members have been lucky enough to have been supported by Plunket in our own childhoods, and now with children of our own. It’s a privilege to bring you this event to give back to Wairarapa Plunket.

This year, Wairarapa Bride of the Year is open to brides who were married in Wairarapa between 1ST July 2022 and

30TH June 2023. We look forward to returning to Carterton Events Centre for the third year, to celebrate our entrants.

The event this year has been organised by a committee of volunteers with strong local ties, including four previous Bride of the Year entrants. Renee, Ellie, Wendy, Shelley, Mel, Stacey, Carolyn and Eve are thrilled to be able to put together this event.

Our judges this year are Sarah Bellman, Esther Bunning Robyn Cherry-Campbell, and Bronwyn Wood.

Their judging criteria for the entrants are: rst impression, sense of con dence, posture and stance, connection to the audience, dress, and overall look. There are also two awards for audience choice, and brides’ choice.

To all our providers, thank you for your ongoing support for this fantastic event. To our entrants, we hope you really enjoy reliving your big day. And thank you all for your ongoing support of this fantastic fundraiser for Wairarapa Plunket.

Judges

MCs

Music

UNCOVER A UNIQUE E-BIKE ADVENTURE

Committee

STANDING LEFT TO RIGHT: Renee Gleeson, Stacey McClure-Byron, Eve Williams

SEATED: Mel Clement, Wendy Morrison, Shelley Mason

ABSENT: Ellie Francis and Carolyn Henson

Robyn Cherry-Campbell One of the founders of Oversew Fashion Awards

Bronwyn Wood Wairarapa Florist - Bloomwood Flower Design

Esther Bunning a Wairarapa-based Photographic Artist

Sarah Bellman founder of Calli Preloved

Benn Milne

Wendy Morrison

Jack Moser

PHOTO: BELINDA PRATT

PHOTOGRAPHY

Take your hens and stags, sprinkle with a sense of adventure and feed your soul on a unique e-bike experience.

P 06 372 6663 E escape@rahuicoastal.co.nz rahuicoastal.co.nz

Courtney Ewington née NORMAN

Bailee Robertson née WHITE

Annemarie Fourie née VERSTER

Francie Flis-Pryce née FLIS

Caitlin Shuttleworth née LINDSAY

Cara Morrison

Julie O’Brien née MALCOLM

Kelsie Kapene née GOVERNOR

Megan Mckendrick

Lauren Ireland née SAYWELL

Kimberley James-Campbell née JAMES

Rebecca Goodgame née COTTIS

Lily Williams née ALLEN

Linda Williams née EVERS

Shaeya Garrett née McPHEE

Shannon Meister-Bradley née MEISTER

Wairarapa Bride of the Year Committee thanks our sponsors

B W O’Brien Ltd

Belinda Pratt Photography

Bloomwood Flower Design

Brackenridge Country Retreat & Spa

Cake LabNZ

Carterton District Council

Castlepoint Holiday Park & Motels

Carterton Events Centre

Clareville Nursery

Claremont Motel Martinborough

Clareville Bakery

Copthorne Hotel & Resort Solway

Park Wairarapa

Countdown Masterton

Eden Skye Design

Entice Cafe

Evans of Masterton

Festival Hire

Garden Barn

Gladstone Inn

Grays Contracting

HarcourtsPrue Hamill & Michelle Moser

Isme Cosmetics

Life Pharmacy

Lucalia Photography

Madamkoda Candles

Makeup & Hair by Shannon & Kylie

Masterweave

Matahiwi Winery

Medina Organic Skin Care

Newbolds Masterton

Orly Boutique

Parehua Resort

Poppys at Home

Pūkaha National Wildlife Centre

Rahui Coastal Loop

Rochelle & Graeme Burnard

Schoc Chocolate

Sweetery

Taylors Drycleaners

Ten O’clock Cookie Bakery Cafe

The Lab

The Sign Factory

The Village Cafe and Bar

The White Swan

The Whole Nine Yards

Therapy Boutique

Tirohana Estate

Trust House

Wai Shuttles

Wings over Wairarapa

Wild Oats Cafe

Situated just eight minutes from Martinborough, Tironui Farm provides a wedding experience that encapsulates the very best a farm venue can o er. With stunning views, an olive grove, indoor and outdoor ceremony and reception options, Tironui Farm has you covered, whatever the weather!

Celebrate your love under the arch in our olive grove, then while you are receiving your family and friends’ good wishes (and posing for a photo or two) your guests can enjoy a wide range of outdoor games.

Eat inside the marquee, or under the stars with your choice of caterer providing the food you

love in the style that represents you. Beverage supply is BYO, with no associated corkage fee. Later in the evening, with the outdoor fire roaring and the marshmallows toasting, you can dance under the stars with your musicians playing on the outdoor stage.

When we moved to Tironui Farm from Wellington, hosting a wedding venue never crossed our minds! But the opportunity evolved through family and friends asking to get married on the farm … the rest is now history. We feel incredibly privileged to be a part of such special occasions and really enjoy the wide range of people we meet through hosting their weddings. It’s true to say, no two weddings are ever the same, with each wedding re ecting the individuals who are marrying … unique, special and quite magical!

photo courtesy of ‘Benjamin & Elise’ photography

“Never in our wildest dreams!”

Dana and Jensphoto courtesy of Tim and Nadine photography

Jenny & Mike