WEDDING TIPS & ADVICE
Choosing the perfect wedding venue is no easy task, with so many great New Zealand wedding venues.  You need to make sure it is adequate for your wedding style and choice.  For example is there enough room for your number of guests,  ample room to socialise and room for your food options also does it have a dance floor? That is, if you are having a dance. 
 
Larger hotels can be a great option if you want everything all in the one location. Usually you meet with a wedding coordinator for the hotel, who will coordinate your wedding arrangements. Your guests can also stay at the hotel, so there won’t be any hassle arranging different accommodation.

If your wedding is going to be in the ‘wedding season’ make sure you book your venue well in advance.  Some popular choices can book out a year or even two years before your date.  Set your budget and also have an idea of wedding guest numbers.  If you are seeking to reduce costs for your wedding and you aren’t too fussed on the date, check if your wedding venue has any special deals over the winter season.

You will have to make a deposit to secure your wedding venue.  Usually this is non-refundable. Make sure you get a contract or an email confirming everything in writing and understand what you are signing. Make sure your venue knows your arrival time and check whether they have a closing time. I’ve heard of couples, who have been kicked out of venues (and they didn’t know there was a closing time) when the party was still going. 
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Smaller weddings can be held at places such as at home, a museum, a botanical garden, or a park. A great tip is to delegate someone in your family who knows both sides to act as a wedding coordinator for the day. If there are any issues on the day, all suppliers can go to the wedding coordinator, rather than interrupting the couple. It is useful if your delegated wedding coordinator meets with all the suppliers too, when you meet them so they can have an overview of the services and the day and ask any questions that the couple may not have thought of.

Think about these things. Where will dining and dancing take place? Where will the guest book be located? Is there a secure area for wedding gifts? Is there a space for any band/musician/dj? Are there sufficient electrical plugs for the DJ? Your photographer will want to know about the lighting of the venue and where the wedding party photos are to be taken place.  Where will the cake be positioned? Are you having a flower wall? If you are having an outdoor marquee, is the marquee secured for all types of weather.
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From a photography perspective, keep in mind the level of natural light available at your wedding venue.  Natural light will provide “airy” and romantic, whereas an indoor location with no windows (or at night) will require a flash, more shadows/highlights, and just a different aesthetic.  

New Zealand offers a plethora of unique wedding venues, each with its own charm and character. Here are some remarkable options:

1. Tarureka Estate (Wairarapa): A historic barn built in 1870, surrounded by manicured gardens. It features a chapel, a bar, and a dance floor. Perfect for rustic elegance.
   
2. The Rippon Hall (Wanaka): Situated atop Rippon Hill, this venue overlooks vineyards, Lake Wanaka, and the Southern Alps. Exchange vows in the natural amphitheater or enjoy the views from the glass-windowed hall.
   
3. Bayly’s Farm (Bay of Islands): A 2000-acre property blending farmland, secluded bays, and Pacific Ocean views. Choose between a coastal point ceremony or a rustic barn-style reception in the wool shed.
   
4. Bracu Estate (Auckland): Mediterranean oasis surrounded by 30,000 olive trees. Ideal for an intimate wedding amidst lush landscapes.
   
5. The Headwaters Eco Lodge (Queenstown): Award-winning venue with breathtaking mountain views in Glenorchy. Combines world-class facilities with stunning scenery.
   
6. Vanderosa Farms (Auckland): Perched on a ridgeline with panoramic views of Pakiri Beach and farmland. A truly breathtaking setting.
   

Remember, your choice should reflect your love story and create lasting memories!

​So often, brides don't think about how their wedding dress hanger will look in photos.  Here's an idea of how to make your wedding dress hanger look pretty.

Click here to see further instructions from the Knot on how to make a pretty hanger.

Wedding dress hangers are more than just functional—they’re keepsakes that can add a touch of elegance to your wedding photos. Whether you’re a photographer or a bride-to-be, here are some ideas for decorating wedding hangers:

1. Personalized Wooden Hangers:
   
   • The Knot Personalized Wooden Wedding Clothes Hanger: This wooden hanger features your name in a whimsical script at the top. It comes in black, natural, or white, allowing you to match your wedding day aesthetic1.
   • Personalized Bridesmaids Hangers: Engraved wooden hangers with names or titles (e.g., bride, bridesmaid) make great gifts for the bridal party1.
   • David’s Bridal Personalized White Wooden Hanger: Classic white hangers with custom text in shiny gold foil add a touch of glam to your wedding attire1.
2. DIY Embellishments:
   
   • Ribbons and Bows: Cut organza ribbon into strips and form bows. Slip them over the hanger neck or affix them at the center with hot glue.
   • Fabric Flowers: Make or buy fabric flowers and glue them onto the hangers.
   • Seashells: If you’re having a beach wedding, use seashells to embellish the hangers.
   • Pearls and Gemstones: Add artificial pearls or gemstones for extra sparkle2.
3. Monogrammed Hangers:
   
   • Modern Fairytale Monogram Hanger: Celebrate your new initials with a bold serif font and delicate floral motif1.

Remember, these personalised hangers not only enhance your wedding photos but also make thoughtful gifts for your bridal party!