HB Today Weddings Guide 2018

Weddings 2018

First with the Bay’s news

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Weddings 2018

Situated on the mystical Mohaka River, Mountain Valley is a beautiful 300 acre farm, perfect for an all-inclusive wedding venue.

With an abundance of picturesque settings, delicious food and affordable accommodation for you and your guests, it’s easy to create unforgettable memories.

WEDDING PACKAGES: Start from $95 per person - includes venue, food and beverages

408 McVicar Road, RD2 Napier WWW.MOUNTAINVALLEY.CO.NZ

julie@mountainvalley.co.nz • 06 834 9756 FACEBOOK: ‘MountainValleyNZ’

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Always and forever “Together is a beautiful place to be.”

Nikki & Sam Howell, married at Clifton Cafe

Elyse & Ashlin Meehan, married at Crab Farm Winery

Kate & Russell How, married at Gwavas Garden Homestead

Inside P4 P5 P6 P8 P10 P12 P13 P14/15 P16 P18 P19 P20 P21 P22 P23 P24 P25 P26

Dream theme

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hen you announce your engagement you want to tell the world!

Then after the first rush of excitement you start to think about your wedding day itself and all that’s involved in organising it. Your head may spin with the list of things to do and the choices to be made.

New Zealand is a fantastic place to get married with such a wonderful choice of geographic locations and venues along with the choice of four distinct seasons.

Here in Hawke’s Bay there’s great weather, plenty of sunshine, beaches, wineries and contemporary, fresh food. Summer in the Bay is definitely wedding season.

Planning your wedding is probably the biggest event you’ll ever have to arrange. Even if you’re having a small wedding there’s still plenty to think about and organise. It can be overwhelming and you’ll probably need help from a number of sources.

Hopefully this publication will make planning your dream day just that little bit easier with tips, guidelines, suggestions and information on service providers to help your big day run like clockwork with nothing overlooked.

We’ve covered all the basics from deciding on a theme through to honeymoons. There’s no right or wrong way to get married and your wedding day should be as unique as you and your partner.

A special thank you to Eva Bradley Photography and all the couples who kindly granted permission for photographs of their special day to be used in this publication.

Cover photograph of Elyse Meehan and her attendants taken on location by Eva Bradley Photography.

Publications Manager Shirley Randell Editorial Chrys Ayley

Exceptional locations Your dream wedding dress Complete the look Eat, drink, enjoy Sweet treats Keepsakes and favours Express yourself A touch of romance You’re invited Visual delights With this ring Picture perfect The young ones Stylish arrivals Wedding checklist Sign here Now to the fun part!

Kate & Pete Roberts, married at Havelock North

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Weddings 2018

Dream theme Express your uniqueness

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he theme for your wedding will set the foundations for your planning and make that perfect day of yours more special for you and your guests.

The sky is the limit as far as a theme goes and you probably have plenty of ideas already. The most important consideration is that whatever you choose suits you both, expresses your personalities, and falls within budget.

Your choice will influence the colours you choose for your dresses, the flowers, the groom’s outfit, invitations, venue decorations, transport, the cake and so on.

Your venue could also be a key to choosing a theme. A beach wedding might call for a casual style of dress with a seashell theme, maybe even tropical flowers followed by cocktails and a seafood barbecue.

A vintage themed ceremony offers plenty of scope for the imagination.

Select an exquisite dress or design from a previous era and artfully mix with contemporary accessories and add table settings and decorations to match your selected era.

A wedding set in an orchard or vineyard could suggest a rustic theme with boutique wines, or cider, followed by an interesting photo shoot. A spring wedding might suggest fresh spring flowers such as daffodils or

autumn gives scope for hues of latte and peach. A winter wedding lends itself to mulled wine and a reception by the fireside.

Wedding stationery is still an important part of the wedding and generally follows your chosen theme and style. Invites, RSVPs, place settings and thank you cards may all be required.

Creating a mood board is an effective and fun way of visualising how certain colours and textures would

look together. You can add pictures of bouquets, centrepieces, dresses, shoes, accessories and cakes. Don’t forget to consider favours which are generally tasty treats that guests can take away as a reminder of your special day.

There’s no shortage of specialist websites offering fresh inspiration from around the world like Instagram and there’s Pinterest that’s always inspirational. There are also plenty of planning tools on line covering budgets, checklists and much more.

Exceptional locations

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Hawke’s Bay has superb wedding and reception venues

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ineyards are extremely popular for weddings and receptions in Hawke’s Bay. Conveniently close to town our wineries offer indoor and outdoor options, award winning wines and first rate cuisine. It’s even possible to find picture perfect wineries with views over the Pacific Ocean.

Hawke’s Bay also has a great selection of hotels, restaurants, lodges and historic homesteads, alongside art deco buildings, function centres, gardens, orchards, clubs, halls for hire and marquee hire.

Think about whether you’d like the ceremony and reception to be held at the same venue, the time of day, type of food and entertainment you’d like.

Would you like a formal sit down meal with table service or a buffet which might be more cost effective?

Visit your shortlisted reception venues and check what is included in the price per head. The functions team

should give advice on how much alcohol to order per head for toasts, meals etc.

If you’re on a tight budget ask if you are able to take your own alcohol.

If you are hiring a marquee you may need to factor in hire of wedding furniture, crockery, glassware, table linen and toilets, lighting, heating, flooring, tables and chairs. There are local hire companies offering everything from vases to cutlery, chair covers, candelabras and more.

Also consider: • Weekend weddings in high season will need booking very well in advance. Ask about mid-week options which may offer a big cost saving or consider an off-peak wedding.

• Would you like the ceremony at the same place as the reception? This could save considerable time and money.

• What accommodation do you need for the bridal party and guests? Do you prefer a special honeymoon suite? Many venues

will include this in the price.

Check what hotels and motels are within close range.

• Pay attention to detail and find out exactly what is included in the price-set up, table costs etc.

• You should expect to receive a contract that includes everything you have agreed. Payment terms, deposit information and cancellation conditions should also be included.

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Weddings 2018

Your dream wedding dress Your chance to be a princess for the day

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inding the perfect wedding gown may take you on a search of many different options, whether you buy, hire, make, borrow, inherit or have it designed.

Bridal fashion trends change over time and right now the runways showing 2019 collections overseas have been full of sleeves, plunging necklines and toppers like boleros, capes and ponchos. Bows are still popular but are smaller and sashes are still in vogue. Simple, well-tailored elegance is on trend thanks to Meghan Markle’s beautifully tailored wedding gown

by Claire Waight Keller for Givenchy Couture.

Having a gown designed and made just for you is the ultimate in individuality, but it will cost you more than a readymade dress. Your designer will want to discuss prospective ideas and styles with you, as well as what suits you and your personality.

Bringing photos, a piece of lace or item of jewellery is helpful for inspiration.

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.

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.

Your wedding gown need not be traditional bridal style, colour or price.

Look at ball gowns, cocktail outfits and maxi dresses for something just that little bit different. There are plenty of choices that are off-beat and not traditionally bridal.

After the big day you may want to preserve your dress which will involve cleaning by hand or dry cleaning by experts. Preservation techniques include hanging or storing in an acid free box away from light.

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WEDDING RINGS DIAMOND JEWELLERY BRIDAL JEWELLERY WEDDING CUTLERY PHOTO FRAMES TRAYS CRYSTALWARE + MORE!

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Weddings 2018

Complete the look Hair, body and skin treatments to have you looking radiant on your wedding day

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rofessional beauty therapists offer a range of relaxing, nurturing face and body treatments. When you are discussing your wedding date arrange a consultation well in advance to help draw up a personalised skin and beauty programme.

Discuss your skin type with your cosmetician, get into a regular skin care routine and take advice on their product recommendations. Book makeup and hair stylists for yourself and your bridesmaids well in advance.

You may also want to have a trial run to make sure your makeup is perfect.

Plan to have eyebrows and eyelashes dyed a couple of weeks before the big day.

If you are all feeling the strain of the preparations why not treat yourself and the bridesmaids to a pampering treat such as a facial, massage or spa treatment? There’s no shortage of salons, spas and beauty therapists in Hawke’s Bay. Plan your hairstyle well in advance of your wedding day especially if you are thinking about growing or colouring your hair. Collect images of hair styles you think would suit your big day and take them along to your stylist who will be happy to help work out the best style, colour and cut. One of the major decisions is whether to have your hair loose and flowing for a natural look or an up do for a more sophisticated look.

Arrange for a trial styling to ensure you are happy with the hairstyle you have chosen and make sure you have firm bookings for the wedding day.

When you’ve decided on your style take any accessories to your stylist so she can cut your hair to suit to ensure you look perfect on the day.

Most brides prefer to have their hair done along with their bridesmaids on the day of the wedding. Stylists, and makeup artists, will visit you at home or wherever you are preparing for the wedding to save stress.

Get plenty of regular exercise and make fruits, vegetables, lean protein and plenty of water part of your daily life. If you would like to lose a few kilos, and be at peak fitness on your big day, set some realistic goals and team up with your partner or friend to make exercising that more enjoyable.

The elegance of Hawthorne House and the delightful gardens make it the perfect venue for your Hawke's Bay wedding.

Hawthorne House 1420 Railway Road South RD11, Paki Paki, Hastings 4178 Hawke’s Bay

Offering luxuriously appointed en-suite accommodation only minutes from Hastings and Havelock North for up to ten guests, the bridal party can be accommodated in style throughout the wedding celebrations.

The house and verandah lends itself to a wonderful small wedding venue, or we can erect a marquee in the gardens to extend the space for your guests.

Hawthorne House is yours exclusively to design your wedding.The house, accommodation and gardens are all at your disposal, so you can relax with your family and friends and enjoy your special day together.

Ph: 06 878 0035

Email us at stay@hawthorne.co.nz www.hawthorne.co.nz

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A bouquet’s throw from the ocean...

Napier Conference Centre is close to beautiful photo

locations, including the viewing platform with its ocean backdrop, the beach and art deco buildings.

Now with a more spacious ballroom, increased room for dining, beautiful furnishings and stunning views, it’s all just minutes from the heart of Napier.

We’re taking bookings now and would love to hear from you!

48 Marine Parade, Napier +64 6 835 9001 events@napierconferencecentre.nz napierconferencecentre.nz

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Weddings 2018

Eat, drink, enjoy Hawke’s Bay has an outstanding selection of venues for your wedding ceremony and reception

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ne of the great attractions of Hawke’s Bay is the wonderful selection of fresh fruit, vegetables and meat that’s grown right here in the Bay. We’re also blessed with an extensive range of fine wines created right here on our doorstep. Add gorgeous weather and we have a recipe for a perfect wedding every time.

Vineyards are extremely popular for both wedding ceremonies and receptions. They offer indoor and outdoor options, award winning wines and first class cuisine. Many will have a wedding coordinator to work with you to plan every aspect of your day along with options, at various price points, for the wedding meal.

The cost of food and beverages generally is a large part of most wedding celebrations but there are plenty of alternatives to a lavish, formal meal.

One option is to hire professional caterers who can deliver and serve at your reception site. They can design a menu to suit your preference and also take into account the degree of formality you’d like. Options range from a grazing menu, to buffets, a formal sit down meal and special children’s menus.

Buffet meals are considered to be reasonably priced but take a good look at all your options as you might find plated meals just as affordable.

For those on a budget there are several things you can do to contain costs such as limiting the open bar,

serving just wine and beer, BYO if it’s allowed or don’t serve alcohol. While a cake is traditional you could break with tradition and simply serve dessert or have cake as dessert.

Another is to do it yourself with the help of family and friends. Good organisation is essential for this option but it can be a rewarding experience and an opportunity for family members to get together more informally. At the end of the day it’s not about the show it’s about sharing your special occasion with family and friends.

Don’t forget the all important nibbles for guests if there is a substantial break between the ceremony and reception.

A nice idea is to send the bridal party off to their photography session with a picnic basket.

Weddings • Corporate • Private Events • Venue Hire

www.purecatering.co.nz

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BBQ Gourmet Catering

it Roast • Formal BBQ • Char Grill • Sp

Your

wedding Our experience

ffet • Bespoke Menus

Set Menu • Gourmet Bu

At our elegant Cheval Room In a marquee on the beach On a vineyard Down on the family farm Any venue, anywhere… your wedding is about who you are, quality catering is about who we are With our 35 years of experience and your dream, we will create a uniquely personal wedding experience for you (and your guests). Let us make your special day truly yours.

What people say about us!

“food was amazing” “everyone is still raving about the food!” “you made our wedding totally ‘us’, thanks” “thank you for making our wedding special” “wonderful service and truly delicious food” “all round, some very happy guests” “food was divine” “a pleasure dealing with you, nothing was a problem”

www.bbqgourmet.co.nz • 06-8768989 • Raymond 021-931205 • Marie 027-5068444

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Weddings 2018

Sweet treats

Waipatiki

The wedding cake symbolizes good fortune and fertility and brings good luck to everyone who eats it

A wedding venue

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Waipatiki can be hired during our off peak times between the mid February to mid December.

Waipatiki gives you the opportunity to make your wedding as relaxed or as glamorous as you want it to be and will be unique to your personality. There are plenty of photo opportunities, either at the beach, in the redwoods or in the surrounding areas.

It really is a perfect place to tie the knot.

06 836 6075

www.waipatikibeach.co.nz Only 30 minutes from Napier

MODERN COSMETIC INJECTABLE TREATMENTS Regular Clinics held at: Napier Waipukurau Dannevirke Palmerston North Masterton Call or text Lise to reserve your appointment

www.cosmeticnurseinjectors.co.nz

Lise Booth BN. RN. Post Grad. Health Science

professional • medical • personal

ph. 027 204 2423 clinic room @ westshore hair studio

Coast aesthetics

V shows featuring amazing wedding cakes have become very popular which might go some way to explain why the wedding cake has taken on greater and grander importance.

Options are as broad as the imagination these days and could be round, square, stacked, cupcakes, croque-en-bouche, meringue, ice-cream, sorbet, chocolate, red, yellow, pink. How about metallic icing, a nude cake, a fruity theme or something to match your shared interests?

There are some excellent cake designers in Hawke’s Bay who are only too happy to discuss your ideas and offer samples for the allimportant taste test. Most of them will also have an album of photos and a website for you to view a range of their work.

Once the culinary masterpiece has been made the artistry of the decoration begins. Whether classic, modern, fun, funky, sculpted, shaped, piled, painted or piped, the icing can reflect almost any colour scheme or theme.

Practical considerations include the number of guests and whether the

cake will be served as dessert. If you are getting married in the height of a Hawke’s Bay summer consider the warmer climate and choose a cake that will not melt before the end of the reception.

After the meal, the bride and groom traditionally make the first cut of the cake together. This first piece is shared between the couple with the groom feeding the bride first, then the bride feeding the groom. Then it’s shared with guests during the reception.

Keepsakes and favours Make their day with personalised gifts

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avours are given as a gesture of appreciation to guests from the bride and groom normally after the ceremony. Traditionally they were known as bonbonniere and were small trinkets made of crystal or porcelain. Later on sugar almonds became fashionable and they are still a tradition in Italy and elsewhere.

Today favours could include personalised soap, chocolate, wine, jam, herbs and spices, cupcakes or macarons.

Temporary tattoos, personalised tea bags, cake in a jar, boxed donuts, a personalised packet of seeds, candles and personalised fortune cookies are some rather more unique ideas.

Presents for bridesmaids and groomsmen tend to be more traditional such as necklaces, bracelets and

earrings, but there is a huge range of items like monogrammed bags, ring dishes, hats, champagne utes, bottle openers, and so on. There are plenty of traditional options for men too, such as monogrammed cuff links, engraved hip asks and personalised USB sticks.

Other ideas to make your wedding day even more special are matching robes for the bride and bridesmaids, crazy socks for the men, jandals for guests to wear or monogrammed sunglasses for all.

Having a Polaroid camera available so that the guests can take photos of themselves for you to remember the day is a fun icebreaker: having props available like silly mustaches and glasses also add to the fun.

Another alternative is to donate money to a favourite charity and leave a message for guests about your donation and which charity.

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Weddings 2018

Express yourself Today’s grooms are keen to create a personal look to match their partner’s style

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hese days most grooms are not afraid to express their own style and it seems that anything goes from suits and ties to shorts and jandals, although it does appear that here in the Bay men tend to wear more traditional attire. Much depends, of course, on the theme of the wedding, the venue and the degree of formality. Day time weddings lend themselves to slightly less formal wear.

Brides are usually consulted to ensure the continuity of the wedding theme, but grooms should try a variety of styles to see which suits their height and body shape best. Those of medium height and build can wear almost any style, but for other body shapes, the cut, style, length and fit should all be considered. People will be looking at you as a couple so it’s important you put on a unified show.

The groom usually wears something to distinguish him from his best man and groomsmen. They might wear the same suits but different coloured shirts or perhaps a differently styled jacket. Think about how the groomsmen will look alongside the bridesmaids- will the style of their outfits, and colours, match?

Small touches make all the difference such as waistcoats, coordinated ties, pocket squares, matching socks, braces or special cufflinks, which work together to blend with the tone of the ceremony and overall colour scheme. Perhaps they can be matched with the flowers the attendants will be wearing? Popular colours for ties are silver, grey, navy or even a splash of colour, stripes or checks to tone with, or match, the bride’s outfit or flowers.

Few people these days know how to tie a tie so make sure someone (possibly an older guest) knows how to do it properly!

CLEAN & PRESERVE YOUR PRECIOUS WEDDING GOWN • Wedding Gowns Cleaned & boxed • Expert stain remova al • Repairs & alterations • Zip replacements • Woolrests and duvets

Corner Hastings and Browning Street (Opposite Cathedral) Napier. Ph: 835 4863 703 Heretaunga St W, Hastings. Ph: 878 8095

Weddings 2018 | 15 Hire, buy or borrow – whatever suit style you choose be sure it’s design, fabric and fit will flatter you and that it’s appropriate for the season and the occasion.

Ensure it’s cleaned, pressed and tailored for ideal length too. When it comes to the reception you’ll want to be able to move freely and to dance without the outfit being too tight.

There’s a choice of off the rack suits which can be tailored to fit or made to measure suits for those wanting something a little more special. Still popular locally are morning suits, blue and charcoal lounge suits. For those wanting something a little more casual trousers and a waistcoat are a good option. Occasionally those not used to ‘dressing up’ might go for a pair of moleskins and handcrafted leather boots.

The choice of footwear will also depend, to some extent, on the style and formality of the wedding, along with the key colour theme.

Traditionally the male attendants will all wear matching footwear.

Let’s not forget the hair which will need styling several weeks ahead of the wedding to give it time to settle for the photographs. Extra care with the cut and conditioning will ensure all the men look their

best. A manicure will have his hands looking good for the photos.

The fathers of the bride and groom will also want to look their best and a bit of coordination between all parties will ensure that there are no fashion faux pas on the day. Generally speaking there should be the same level of formality for all the men with the fathers perhaps distinguishing themselves with different coloured waistcoats or ties and matching their buttonholes to match the bride and grooms.

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Weddings 2018

A touch of romance Flowers complete the mood and ambience on your special day

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o matter what your budget, flowers are generally an important aspect of your wedding adding romance, atmosphere, creating impact and visual appeal. Traditionally they were a sign of fertility, warded off evil and masked unpleasant odours!

There are many considerations when selecting flowers for your big day such as the overall wedding theme, the colour scheme, the season and whether it’s a formal or informal celebration. Styles could range from classic, to wild or contemporary and there’s an amazing range of options when it comes to colour, shape and size.

A good florist will help you choose what’s best for you and your budget.

You might ask to see a portfolio of their work before settling on a florist you think will do a good job. Word of mouth and personal recommendation is also a good way of picking a floral artist.

Talk to friends who have recently married and see who they recommend and have a good look online for inspiration. After you’ve decided on your theme and colour schemes visit your chosen florist with colour swatches and chat about your options.

You will need to plan your flowers carefully and order for the bride, bridesmaids’ and flower girls, the groom, best man, attendants, page boys, mothers and grandmothers, fathers, grandfathers and ushers.

Don’t forget the all important floral decorations for the wedding ceremony and reception venue.

Our award winning team can assist you with your overseas wedding arrangements. From airfares, accommodation and wedding venues - to putting you in touch with a wedding planner.

Best Travel House

104 Market Street South, Hastings T: 06 876 5111 E: travel@besttravel.co.nz W: www.besttravel.co.nz

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A perfect, romantic Hawke’s Bay beachfront

edding venue

East Pier has recently undergone a multimillion dollar re-development creating a 24 bedroom luxury hotel. The hotel includes three magnificent beachfront wedding venues that can cater for weddings from 30 people up to 160 people. The hotel comprises studio rooms, family suites and 2 premium suites including a magnificent bridal suite.

All three of the venues offer magnificent sea views, digital sound systems and they all have their own private beach front decks. The largest wedding venue also boasts private bar facilities and bathrooms.

East Pier is licensed until 2.00am and you are more than welcome to make your own arrangements with regards to entertainment e.g. DJ, live band, jukebox or your own Ipod playing through our digital state of the art sound systems.

Please note that loud music has to be off no later than midnight.

The hotel also offers a magnificent array of local fresh produce with all the catering options and a magnificent, yet surprisingly affordable wine list showcasing the best Hawke’s Bay has to offer.

Managing Director Dave Halstead will remove all the stress and take personal care of you from the moment you first make contact right through to waving you off once you’ve finally been forced to drag yourself away from Hawke’s Bay’s premium hospitality spot.

The East Pier Hotel is the perfect Hawke’s Bay waterfront wedding venue that can cater for all facets of your big day. From pre-wedding meet and greet the night before through to the ceremony itself, the reception and dance, all your accommodation needs and the morning after get together.

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Weddings 2018

You’re invited Invitations provide guests with a hint of what’s to come

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nce you’ve decided on your overall theme and color schemes for the big day and when the guest list is sorted-which is never any easy task-you can consider your stationery.

First and foremost is to look at design ideas, themes, colours, lettering and paper. Depending on the degree of formality, and in addition to formal invites, you could consider RSVP cards, direction maps, orders of service, seating plans, place cards and thank you cards.

As well as providing guests with the necessary details about the date, time and place of your wedding, your invitations also express the style and theme of the wedding. Options for purchasing your stationery are plenty and range from online stores to local stationers or do it yourself. The experts have access to a wide range of cards, paper and envelopes. Always proof your printed invitations carefully and aim to buy all your stationery at the same time to save money.

DIY invitations allow you to create individual stationery of your own from colourful and imaginative materials in stationery stores, art and craft outlets, bookshops and online. Whimsically informal, imaginatively designed for semi-formal or classically presented for traditional weddings, there's wonderful scope for inspiration in terms of colour, calligraphy and language.

Guest books are another way of keeping treasured memories and could be ordered along with your other stationery. Contemporary ideas include a guest book with thumb prints, photographs of guests and more traditional best wishes written in contrasting ink.

WEDDING GROUPS WELCOME Inspection invited 50+ Sky TV Channels • Air Conditioned units Free Wifi • Outdoor Swimming Pool

ki uk i otel uwww.tukitukimotel.co.nz

RESERVATIONS FREEPHONE

0508 885 488

Phone: (06) 858 9206 E: tuki.tuki.motel@xtra.co.nz

Cnr Russell & Herbert Streets, SH2, Waipukurau

Our history, Your happily ever after…

Visual delights

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Transform your venue

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hen the formal ceremony is over and you arrive at the reception venue you’ll inevitably want to personalise the room. This is an opportunity to show your style and bring together all the components together for one final visual statement. This should be done well in advance of the guests arriving and in conjunction with the hosts. Planning for the décor should be an essential part of your overall plan for the big day.

Flowers, wedding table decorations, place cards and napkins will all need coordinating and perhaps you’d like to add some scented candles and most likely flowers to match the ongoing theme and colour scheme.

There are all sorts of signs that you can personalise the reception with including welcome signs and seating plans.

The sky is the limit when it comes to beautifying the reception venue with plenty of DIY articles such as balloons that come in all sizes and colours.

Blow up letters and numbers are currently in vogue as are signs that can be hired that say “Love” in lights.

Marquee hire is another popular choice and there are several hire companies in the Bay who hire out not just marquees but all manner of ‘props’ such as ceiling canopies, chandeliers, crockery and cutlery. Some will even set up and dismantle the props making your day just that bit easier.

Wedding & Event Styling and Decorating Taking an event from an ordinary occasion to something special is simple with A Touch of Elegance. Our extensive range of decorations allows you to bring your theme to life and create an unforgettable event for you and your guests.

06 843 9228 | info@elegancenz.co.nz elegancenz.co.nz Follow us on Facebook @elegancenz or Instagram @elegancenz2016

OUR PRODUCTS We specialise in: Ceiling Canopies & Fairy Lights Backdrops Chair Covers & Sashes Centrepieces Candelabras and Candle Holders Wedding Ceremony Items Event Theming Offering Design & Deliver or Hire Services

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Weddings 2018

With this ring Love is never ending, just as a ring has no end

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t the engagement stage few couples give thought to the wedding rings, often leaving their purchase until closer to the wedding.

But it does pay to have an idea of the wedding ring you want when shopping for the engagement ring.

Will you wear the engagement ring and the wedding ring together?

Probably, so the rings will have to fit well together on the finger and complement each other. Most choose the same metals, but yellow and white gold can also look chic depending on the design. If the setting and style of your engagement ring is very detailed, a plainer wedding ring will offset it better.

Contemporary trends range from rose gold which flatters all skin tones, to mixed petals, vintage inspired designs, blooming flowers, vines and cluster styles which adds a feminine touch. Another idea is to have a gem set east to west. Still popular is a

simple solitaire – a classic choice.

Pearls are ever popular along with crystals.

For men two tone rings are popular such as white and yellow gold together. Black zircon rings are also gaining in popularity along with

titanium, tungsten, white gold and even diamonds.

Don’t forget the all-important accessories like earrings, headbands, brooches, bracelets and the thank you gifts for the bridesmaids and groomsmen. Traditional gifts might

include a bracelet, a matching necklace or earrings in a presentation box that says something like “My life wouldn’t be the same without you.” For the best man and groomsmen cuff links, tie clips and watches would be ideal if opting for jewellery as a thank you.

The Gospel Hall

Your perfect honeymoon or romantic night getaway…

Kereru Lodge, Hawke’s Bay sits inland from Hastings at Kereru, overlooking the foothills of the Ruahine Ranges.

A romantic and alluring space, with private Spa looking to the heavens in harmony with nature.

We welcome you with a lovely bottle of Hawkes Ridge Wine and fresh local produce.

Kereru Lodge, Hawke’s Bay Luxury Accommodation

Book Online through airbnb or glamping.com

Weddings 2018 | 21

Picture perfect

For many couples, choosing a photographer is one of the most important decisions to be made when planning a wedding and it can be the biggest investment. Leading Hawke’s Bay photographer EVA BRADLEY shares her experience.

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ne thing I am told over and over again is how fast a wedding day goes by. So many emotionally significant moments are happening in quick succession that it’s often not until you get your photos back that you even remember how many incredible things happened – both big and small.

For that reason, photography is understandably a priority for most people planning a wedding. So what are the most important things to consider before booking someone?

1. Find your style

Thanks to social media (especially Instagram), we’re now able to look at the very best wedding photography from around the world, virtually as it happens. This has led to a melting pot of international influences and styles so make sure you choose

a photographer who reflects the style that matters to you. Are you a barefoot, boho bride or are you more classic? Some photographers specialise in shooting candid, unposed doco-style weddings while others shoot with more structure.

2. Fall in love with their work.

The best photographer for you is one whose work gives you an instant emotional reaction. Fall in love with their style in the same way you fall in love with your dress.

3. Look at lots of photos

Don’t just be seduced by a photographer’s ‘Greatest Hits’ collection on Instagram. Look at their website and make sure the quality of their work is consistently high across just one day by asking to see one of their weddings in full, preferably at your venue. Make sure the work you are looking at was shot at a real wedding, with all the pressures that come with that.

4. Quality costs

Even though it’s important to have a budget, think hard about how you allocate it. Lots of aspects of the day will fade in your memory over time but you will be looking at your wedding photos for the rest of your life. Typically a photographer’s price reflects their experience, reputation and creative skill (rather than how many hours they are shooting). As the saying goes… ‘the bitterness of poor quality lasts long after the sweetness of a cheap price’!

5. Ask Around

Ask other wedding vendors and your friends if they would recommend anyone, and ask them to share their experience and advice if they’ve recently been married.

6. Book early

Photographers and videographers are usually the next thing booked after the venue. It’s not uncommon for good ones to be booked more than a year in advance.

Kalldeen is luxury accommodation in Hawke’s Bay offering a unique feeling of being in the country though only 10 minutes from Napier City.

LUXURY ACCOMMODATION

Opulent chalets have their own private deck with a spa pool, sun loungers, water feature and palm garden, they also have a self-contained kitchen.

Our suites are designed to ensure you relax and enjoy your private surroundings and are the perfect place for your honeymoon or as your wedding preparation venue.

Email: info@kalldeen.com

Phone: 027 249 5096

www.kalldeen.com 127 Gilligan Road, Pakowhai, Napier

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Weddings 2018

The young ones There’s nothing more adorable than little helpers

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ho could resist the sight of a flower girl and page boy walking hand in hand down the aisle, it’s almost too cute. But using small children also comes with risks such as moodiness and fidgeting. For those prepared to take the chance there’s plenty of choice of cool, comfortable and appropriate clothing for boys and girls.

You can create a dress for your flower girl in the same design as your dress if it’s appropriate, or use the same fabric in a style suitable for a little girl.

Thai silk, dotted voile, satin and tulle are popular combinations.

Alternatively keep the dress simple and match detail from your own gown such as a lace bolero, or overlay, a rosette or applique, crystal beads or pearly buttons to shimmer and shine.

Lace wedding dresses can be purchased at bridal and ballet shops or made at the same time as your own gown. For a less expensive option find a simple white or cream dress in

children’s wear shops or department stores and trim with your own choice of embellishments.

To add colour, match a sash to your bridesmaids gowns or flowers or loop the skirt over a petticoat of lace, pastel print or ribbon trim.

If it’s chilly keep your adorable attendants warm with a bolero or cardigan and if it’s hot don’t forget sun screen or hats.

Involving children in a wedding ceremony is particularly important for

a child or children whose parent(s) is getting married or if they are children from previous relationships - it will make them feel special to be included in some part(s) of the ceremony.

Children can be very cute but also unpredictable so if they are allocated roles such as page boys, flower girls, ushers or ring bearers include them in rehearsals and make them feel important. If they are a little older they may be able to read a quote.

If possible assign someone to look after them so you are not worrying about what they are getting up to and have a few activities on hand for them to do – colouring in, puzzles and books or bring along their favorite toy. Consider what they will eat when arranging with your caterers and have everyone aware of where they will sit and who is looking after them at this stage of the wedding. As long as you plan well you’ll be pleased when you see the smiles on those little faces!

CHB MUNICIPAL THEATRE

A Perfect Venue For All Occasions

M.A.C MAKEUP PRO ARTIST Annabel can help you achieve the look you want for your wedding day whether it is very natural, Art Deco inspired or something a little different. Your wedding is one of your biggest days in your life and you want to look and feel stunning. Enhance your natural beauty to be the most polished version of you.

For enquiries please email or text Phone: 027 650 8868 Email: annabel.w.bates@gmail.com Web: www.annabelbates.co.nz By appointment - Omarunui road, Hawke’s Bay

Bookings & Enquiries; 06 857 8117 chbtheatre@xtra.co.nz www.chbtheatre.co.nz

Stylish arrivals Reflect your wedding theme in your transport choice

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ou might want to make your entrance and departure in unique style, but check out availability and practicality when making your choice of wedding vehicle.

Classic or vintage cars - these tend to be booked up well in advance so act quickly once you’ve decided on the date for the wedding.

Two wheelers- for something less conventional, you might consider a vintage motorbike and sidecar or a tandem bike.

Double-decker bus or coach - a bus, this is a fun way to get around, it can transport your wedding guests ensuring they find their way to the ceremony and reception and that they are delivered safely back to their accommodation.

Boat - if you’re going near waterways, arriving by boat could be just the ticket.

Horse and carriage or horseback - for a truly romantic start to your ceremony nothing can beat arriving in a horsedrawn carriage.

Helicopter - what about a chopper for serious thrills and a grand entrance?

If there’s a distance to travel it could also be quite practical.

Here at Black Rose we just love weddings and we’re committed to making your happy occasion wonderfully memorable. Our immaculately presented wedding vehicles will gleam and our friendly professional drivers know just what it takes to deliver that special moment.

Phone: 06 878 8975

Email: info@blackrose.co.nz www.blackroselimos.co.nz 25 Coronation Street, Ahuriri, Napier 4110

Whatever type of transport you choose, you will still want comfort, punctuality, reliability and an element of shelter if the weather is less than perfect.

Go Bus provides %")#'%!($ and #$(&%!($ transport for your big day.

Our vehicles range from mini buses for small groups to large passenger buses and coaches that accommodate larger groups.

Enquire now.

gobus.co.nz/CharterHire P. 06 878 9250

Weddings 2018 | 23

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Weddings 2018

COMPLETE FUNCTION HIRE SPECIALISTS We can supply marquees, tents, tables, chairs, lighting and catering supplies for up to 1,000 quests.

Music entertainment options also available.

We have over 20 years experience and are experts in making your important day stress - free

Wedding planning checklist Even a simple wedding requires careful planning to make sure everything runs like clockwork

SLOANS

Takapau Road, Waipukurau Ph: 06 858 8411 • sloans@xtra.co.nz

12 months • Set buudget • Draft guest list • Set wedding date the • Choose and book

venue • Hire photographer 10 months • Select bridal party • Chose vendors istry • Set up wedding reg • Select a celebrant

Acquiring a Ball & Chain??

4 months attire • Select groomsmen • Decide on hair and makeup 3 Months ns • Send out invitatioo • Order favours ty gifts • Shop for bridal par

1-2 months h all • Finalise details wit suuppliers • Apply for marriage license 8 months ng ss • Attend dress fitti dre g din wed r you r er • Ord • Buy accessories ion dat mo om acc e • Reserv • Confirm transport for guests ht out/ • Hen and stag nig e • Order cak al shower brid • Book florist 1 week ments 6 months • Confirm all arrange oon eym • Book hon Prepare speechess • s aid esm • Order brid dresses s • Buy wedding ring

We are your alternative form of Hens/Stag celebrations.

Napier Prison will create a package that includes our Escape Room Experience with activities to challenge/entertain you & your guests. Bar and dining options available.

Contact the Warden today to plan your function at getnicked@napierprison.com or (06)8359933

Perfect skin for your big day

Beautiful Skin, the factual way Bridal Prep Package • Full Skin Health Check • Photographic Skin Analysis • Skin Conditioning Facial • Personalised Skin Program Plus a Destress Neck Massage

ALL for $99 206 Eastbourne St East, Hastings Tel: 878 9890 • www.cameobeauty.co.nz

Save

$89

P

reparing your skin for the big day should start about a year before to enure it’s in perfect condition. It’s recommended that you have a full skin health check by a qualified dermal clinician or a skin aesthetician. Don’t leave it too late as miracles take longer than 6 weeks to happen!

Good skin health relies on feeding and nurturing with nutrients much like a garden that will flourish if watered and fertilised.

Your skin is alive and it doesn’t need over cleaning or over exfoliating. While microdermabrasion was once popular it’s definitely not recommended as it can cause damage, Kim Krekeler says.

Look for a salon with a photographic skin scanner/analyser which can diagnose skin issues like UV damage or acne very accurately, or show up other problem areas. Over time the effects of treatment are photographed revealing some dramatic changes for the better.

For those hitting the gym to tone up their body and lose weight do be careful not to strip out essential fatty acids as your skin will sag and look gaunt.

For a late summer wedding use ingredients that prevent pigmentation such as vitamin C and for a winter wedding the skin will need deep hydration as it will be parched due to air conditioning and heating.

Courtesy of Kim Krekeler owner and dermal clinician of Cameo Skin-Body-Beauty, Hastings.

Sign here Plenty of independent and church affiliated celebrants to choose from

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here’s plenty of choice when it comes to selecting that special person to conduct your wedding ceremony or civil union; there are 42 registered celebrants in Napier alone!

If you are members of a church your local minister or priest will generally conduct the ceremony and if you opt for marriage at a registry office you’ll be married by a Registrar of Marriages.

Only those persons appointed by the Registrar-General as Marriage and/or Civil Union Celebrants and whose name appears in the List of Celebrants in the New Zealand Gazette have authority to solemnise marriages and/or civil unions in New Zealand.

Registered celebrants may also belong to The Celebrants Association of New Zealand (CANZ) who perform many ceremonies, not just weddings.

A wedding ceremony requires a Registered Marriage Celebrant, and may be performed at any time of the day/night on any day of the year at any venue. The ceremony requires legal documents to be signed in the presence of two witnesses and a Registered Marriage Celebrant.

You’ll want to chat to celebrants on your short list to ensure he or she is the perfect match for your personality and style of wedding. You will be offered a personal consultation to plan the ceremony and discuss vows, readings and poems. The celebrant will attend to all paperwork and legal aspects required.

Your vows are very much a personal choice and your celebrant will encourage you to put much thought into these words that will be a public declaration of how you will live your life together. Some brides and grooms can write from the heart but others may need a little help: there are plenty of sources of inspiration in printed form and on the internet.

Weddings 2018 | 25

It’s Your Day, Your Way, Count on me to make it happen

Marriage Celebrant Susanna Clark

Susanna.Clark1@gmail.com

027 232 1118

www.facebook.com/celebrantsuse

SPRAY TANNING & BEAUTY THERAPY In-Salon and Mobile

Qualified Beauty Therapist and Tan Technician For waxing, eyelash tinting and eyebrows

Phone Gemma on 022 372 8813

gemmaholloway@outlook.co.nz

We are dedicated to help create a unique and wonderful day for you and your guests using quality local produce within Hawkes Bay. Specialising in grazing style of dining with a “little bit of everything for everyone” to share and enjoy.

Phone: Harriet Twinn: 027 845 0450 or Melissa Rutherfurd: 021 050 6055 E: mitziandtwinn@gmail.com www.mitziandtwinn.co.nz Please get in touch to see what we can create for your special day! We can customise our menus to your specific requirements.

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Weddings 2018

Now to the fun part!

A honeymoon deserves as much attention as other aspects of wedding planning

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hether your most romantic holiday ever is a tropical island getaway with your own secluded beach, a country lodge or hideaway cottage, your honeymoon is a private celebration of your new life together.

It’s a chance to relax, unwind and chill out after what’s likely to have been a frantic time in the lead up to the wedding. However, there’s quite a lot to organise if your honeymoon is to be a perfect getaway.

Take control of your trip and leave plenty of time to plan your honeymoon as it’s equally as important as the wedding plans. Seeking the services of a specialist travel agent is a good way to make sure you consider all options, plus they know their business and can advise on perfect honeymoon locations, along with any special deals for honeymooners.

Honeymoon check list

Check the weather before you book - for example Fiji in summer time (November

to March) is very hot and humid and it’s the rainy season.

Check your passport is up to date and the name in your passport matches the name on your travel ticket/s. Source www.passports.govt.nz Think seriously about the value of travel insurance – it could end up saving you money and it will give you

peace of mind. You never know what might happen - emergency assistance, cancellation, delays and medical events all come about when we least expect it and can be very costly.

Pack early so you have no last minute rush and try to avoid early flights the day after your event - you’ll probably be quite tired.

High expectations of wild sex on the first night of your honeymoon might not be realistic after the events leading up to the wedding and a long trip.

Don’t be shy about letting people know you are on your honeymoon - you may be surprised at their generosity.

House of Travel Honeymoon Bridal Registry The ideal wedding gift idea.

The Honeymoon Bridal Registry allows your guests, both overseas and at home, the convenience to contribute to your wedding and honeymoon with ease. It works in the same way as any gift registry except that with the Honeymoon Bridal Registry your guests ‘gift’ to you is in the form of monetary contributions towards your wedding and honeymoon.

The best holidays are created together.

House of Travel Havelock North S H O P 5, V I L L AG E C O U RT 06 87 7 8737 H A V E L O C K N O R T H @ H O T. C O. N Z

House of Travel Hastings 1 1 7 M A R K E T ST N O RT H 06 878 8858 H O T H A S T@ H O T. C O. N Z

Website H O T H A W K E S B AY. C O. N Z

At a glance

Weddings 2018 | 27

Bespoke event hire pieces can be hard to come by, with our Love Light we take the stress out of it by delivering, installing and styling our Love Light just for you. All you need to do is pick a spot!

Fi & Jules 027 772 4443

hello@thelovelight.co.nz www.thelovelight.co.nz

Walnut Lane is a boutique event hire company specialising in rustic yet stylish one-off treasures to add magic to your special event or wedding day.

Contact Hannah on 027 782 8980 walnutlane@outlook.co.nz | www.walnutlane.co.nz @walnutlanehire

High Tea Hire Call Maggie to organise your hirage of exquisite English Vintage China items for your bridal shower or your special wedding theme and make your day an event to remember.

Maggie Hanlon 2 Neeve Place, Napier, Hawke's Bay 06 844 5693 maggie@highteahire.co.nz