Wairarapa Weddings 2021

2021 WAIRARAPA

WEDDINGS

F E AT U R IN G

Bride of the Year The essential guide to getting married in Wairarapa

Your locally owned newspaper

Welcome Weddings are a joyous occasion.

They’re a uniquely optimistic occasion where two people are committing their lives to each other in front of chosen family and friends. What’s even easier these days is there are few rules and so each wedding has its own personal blend.

The few rules are that an authority figure or official celebrant must officiate and proclaim the vows made by the two people but other than that – your imagination can go wild.

There’s been crazy weddings in midair while parachute jumping, some climb their favourite mountain getting hitched at the top, others head out on to the sea, but most tend to have their feet firmly on land often at a venue chosen for its special meaning to the couple.

Take the couple featured on our cover.

Mike and Loren chose her parent’s gorgeous rural homestead in South Wairarapa as the backdrop, and she married Mike on the tennis court with

the marquee to cater for the guests erected in gardens beside the house.

So, that’s the venue – anyone’s choice!

Then there’s the clothing to celebrate the event. Queen Victoria set a trend wearing a white gown and veil. It’s generally believed it was to display sexual purity and that’s why second and third marriages often have different colours being worn. Red features highly in Indian weddings as does red in China – considered the lucky colour.

The use of a wedding ring has long been part of religious weddings in Europe and America, but the origin of the tradition is unclear. One possibility is the Roman belief, that a blood vessel that ran from the fourth finger (ring finger) went directly to the heart.

Thus, when a couple wore rings on this finger, their hearts were connected. In the distant past, in most cultures it was only women who wore a ring to show she was ‘taken’. It was only in early 20th century America, that men began to also wear a ring and the practice gained popularity.

The wedding reception or wedding breakfast, marks the first meal

together as a married couple.

This is when the families of the two people share in their excitement by making speeches.

Again, it used to be the father of the bride who took the lead, followed by the best man who revealed all sorts of stories about the groom. Dancing at weddings is universal. Traditionally, the first dance is for the newly betrothed couple, then the father/daughter and mother/ son combinations depict the binding of families. The ‘send-off’ in Western culture, used to be a great opportunity to dress up a married couples’ vehicle with streamers and tin cans to make sure they didn’t sneak away quietly.

In many African and eastern cultures, it was more formal with the couple, farewelling their elders and announcing their move away from the festivities. However, these days most people all want to enjoy the party and so the ‘going away’ outfit does not occur much anymore.

Celebrant | MC | Facilitator

PH: 0278502518 E: HOLLY.HULLENA@GMAIL.COM WWW.CIRCAMUSIC.CO.NZ Verified member of the Celerants' Association of New Zealand Te Kahui Arahi Ritenga o Aotearoa

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D&A PHOTOGRAPHY

MIKE & LOREN

Whichever way you wish to marry is so purely individual, but here in this magazine, we’d like to take you through the journey after choosing your beloved, to planning the wedding in all its vast intricacies, to taking a deep breath and contemplating life as couple, when it’s all over.

We hope you find this a helpful guide and we wish you a happy future.

Mike Wilson and Loren Hartnell who are featured on our front cover, married in Wairarapa’s Hinakura hills on 9 January 2021. They have been together several years and are helping raise Mike’s 11-year-old son, Phoenix.

Choosing the rugged backdrop of the South Wairarapa hill country was a natural choice for the couple.

Mike is a stock manager and Loren’s parents farm sheep, beef cattle and bees for honey.

Their home is a lovingly restored villa which was perfect as the venue. Loren was thrilled for the wedding to be based around her family home and choosing to erect a large marquee meant they could easily accommodate the 130 guests. They married on the suitably decorated tennis court and celebrated in perfect conditions on a mid-summer day.

Mike and Loren live on a lifestyle block just out of Masterton and much to their delight are expecting a baby in October.

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WAIRARAPA WEDDINGS 2021

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contents 2 Welcome 4 Budget & Guests 6 Venues 10 Photo/Video 11 Insurance 12 Catering 13 Hireage 15 Save The Date/Invitations 16 Hair And Makeup 18 Celebrant 19 Flowers 20 Music 21 MC 23 Transport/Accommodation 24 Planner 26 Alcohol/Drinks Options 28 Bride Clothing And Accessories 29 Groomswear 30 Bridal Party Clothing 31 Cake 32 Decorations/Table Settings 33 Children 34 Marriage Licence 35 Gifts 37 Favours 38 After The Wedding 40 Bride Of The Year

Budget So, you’ve decided to get married? How much you wish to spend, and can afford, are the most challenging decisions you’ll have to make in this process.

Essentially you cannot begin to plan your wedding until you know your budget. Establishing that budget is vital. If you are using the services of a wedding planner, then they will be able to guide you. If you’re doing it yourselves, lists will need to be made – and dollar values put alongside the topics.

Have a special wedding budget book.

It’s a great starting point and writing

things down will help prioritise what’s undisputedly required, what’s important to you both, then there’s the nice-to-have, and maybe another wistful column ‘if there’s money left, we could do this.’

MY BUDGET

Celebrate your love story with marriage celebrant – Rachel Clarke Rachel, you are amazing and we are so thankful to have had you marry us – you delivered exactly what we hoped for and more.

The love story and the way it was told was a lovely touch that so many people noticed and enjoyed. It was so nice to hear people say that they loved our ceremony, and not just the reception. – Tash and Steve. March 2021 I look forward to creating a bespoke ceremony just for you.

Do get in touch and share the magic of your day with me.

Rachel Clarke - Marriage & Funeral Celebrant | 027 276 1431 | rachel@lifecelebrancy.co.nz | www.lifecelebrancy.co.nz

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GUESTS how many is too many?

If you haven’t already, open a spreadsheet and begin writing in all the names of those you’d like to invite. Then seriously look through the list. The number of guests you plan to invite will make a huge

impact on your wedding budget.

If you can’t afford your dream day with the 150 people on your list, consider a smaller guest list. This affects several other factors in your planning eg: catering, venue size.

Most important Don’t get caught up in what everyone else seems to be spending. Certainly, talk with others about their special days, but only to get ideas, not to emulate their spending! An average New Zealand wedding currently costs around $35,000 but it can be as low or high as you wish.

Just don’t put yourself in debt for years. Keep in mind that your wedding day does not have to be expensive to be perfect, and it does not have to be perfect, to be wonderful.

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Venues Venues where you wish to host your special day come in all shapes, sizes, and décor.

If you have a wedding planner, they can be most helpful in having had experience in the various venues on offer and give valuable advice.

Wairarapa boasts a stunning array of dedicated wedding venues taking advantage of heritage and quirky buildings, eye-watering landscapes and the magnificent skies which photographers love for that ‘special light’.

It’s a serious business getting married and the environment you choose to celebrate in will make lifetime memories.

Because Wairarapa has such natural beauty, it’s easy to choose a spot in the middle of a field with maybe the mountains as a backdrop, but then you always need a place where guests can gather to celebrate after the official ceremony.

The venue heralds the wedding as the ‘place to be’ and can be as simple or elaborate as your budget allows.

So, what to look for? Stay true to yourselves is the priority.

Think about your own style.

Are you down-on-the-farm types, often in gumboots; prefer up-market elegance or a theme party which will have everyone immediately laughing?

The style you want to portray will dictate which venue you choose.

Consider too, how much decorating must be done.

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A Perfect Wedding Venue Rathkeale College and St Matthew’s Collegiate School offer a range of spectacular facilities and venues for all your special occasions. Indoor or outdoor, large or small – we can accommodate your needs.

RATHKEALE COLLEGE Contact our office ST MATTHEW’S COLLEGIATE 06 370 6182 • office@trinityschools.nz

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Pollard W e

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Venues which come with everything included take a lot of strain off an already busy time. Then there’s the route to the venue.

Wedding guests come in all ages and disability, so check close parking and ease of access. Check availability nearby of accommodation for guests too.

Do you have to tidy up the next day?

And, weather-wise.

While you can never plan for perfect weather, consider wind directions and where the sun sits at different times of the day. Important for those photographs, guests’ comfort, and general pleasant ambience.

AUGUST & VINE PHOTOGRAPHY

THE PERFECT WEDDING VENUE WITH A VIEW

Married at Wingate Lane

Situated just 5 minutes north of Masterton, we offer a setting with vivid rural landscapes and views of the Tararua Ranges over looking an established vineyard.

Our beautiful location and venue set up allows us to cater for large groups and functions.

Get in touch today to organise your wedding We are happy to help make your day special OPEN Wed-Sun evenings from 5pm and Sunday Lunch 11-2pm p; 06 216 0291 e; bookings@wingatelane.co.nz www.wingatelane.co.nz WAIRARAPA WEDDINGS 2021

The function room with verandah areas extending to an extensive garden bar overlooking Lake Onoke to the Orongorongo Ranges and Palliser Bay. GIVE CANDICE A CALL FOR MORE INFORMATION T: 06-3077831 | E: info@lakeferryhotel.co.nz 1 Lake Ferry Road, South Wairarapa W: lakeferryhotel.co.nz | FB: Lake Ferry Hotel 7

ADVERTISING FEATURE

WAIRARAPA 2021

venue directory

DON’T MOVE MY BOX’S PLEASE COCO’S A beautiful venue in the historic Queen Elizabeth Park, filled with character, original timber features and views to the lake. With seating indoors and outside, your guests can mingle and be comfortable whatever the weather.

The venue leads itself to be formal or informal, depending on which you prefer and is fully licenced.

Guests for sit-down: up to 60 Guests for cocktails: up to 85 Ceremony facilities: Yes Catering: In-house only Accommodation: N/A Queen Elizabeth Park Masterton E hello@cocodessertbar.com P 06 370 1555 www.cocodessertbar.com

DON’T MOVE MY BOX’S PLEASE 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 first floor.

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

DON’T MOVE MY BOX’S PLEASE RATHKEALE COLLEGE Set in magnificent parklike grounds, Rathkeale College offers a range of beautiful locations to choose from for your ceremony including the ever-popular St Martins Chapel and Greek Amphitheatre.

In addition to an experienced Chef, our facilities, which are available for hire during school holidays, include a large dining hall and onsite accommodation across 3 boarding houses.

Guests for sit-down: up to 150 Guests for cocktails: up to 150 Ceremony facilities: up to 200 Catering: In-house available Accommodation: On-site available 217 Willow Park Drive, Masterton 5871 P 06 370 6182 www.rathkeale.school.nz/ facilities-hire

DON’T MOVE MY BOX’S PLEASE

PHOTO CREDIT: Mel Waite Photography

THE 540 LODGE Nestled in the foothills of the Tararua Ranges in North Wairarapa is a hidden property waiting to be shared with guests on their wedding day.

A short drive from Masterton and only an hour and a half from Wellington, this tranquil property has a range of oases to make a dream wedding a reality.

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Guests for sit-down: 60 Guests for cocktails: 100 Ceremony facilities: yes Catering: Facilities available Accommodation: 3 rooms 540 Upper Plain Road, Solway E the540lodge@gmail.com P +64 27 220 9621 www.The540lodge.com

YOUR WEDDING BRACKENRIDGE at

The Complete Country Wedding Venue www.brackenridge.co.nz 06 306 8115 weddings@brackenridge.co.nz

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Photos & streaming Photographing, live streaming and making a video of your wedding is a hugely creative endeavour.

It is storytelling at the highest end. Wedding photography has become a niche market and there are many highly skilled individuals to choose from.

Drones are now being used too, so when choosing your photographer, this may be worth a consideration, and you will need to check their credentials.

Talk to friends too, who have used photographers, to help you choose the right fit for you.

To keep costs down, friends and family may offer to take photos. This is fine, but just be aware they will not produce photos of the professional level seen in wedding portraits. Maybe you combine a few professional ones and then more candid ones by some of the guests?

Ask friends to work in pairs to ensure

they cover everyone and capture those one-off precious moments. Check what equipment they have. Plan whom you especially want photographed.

Internet access needs to be clarified and a practice session achieved. Wedding photography is not for the fainthearted. It is a different genre to all other types of photography because you only have one chance to get it right.

There’s little room for error on the photographer’s part and they must be ready to shoot at a moment’s notice.

Often the wedding party are stressed in their desire to have everything ‘perfect’ so there is an added challenge for the photographer to maintain an easy-going, positive attitude.

However, whatever you choose, future generations will enjoy the record of this special day.

Frame

your

Memories SYLKENWOOD PICTURE FRAMING SH2 Clareville, Carterton P 06 3799 128 | E sylkenwood@xtra.co.nz 10

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When considering having a video taken, think carefully as to why you want this done. Live streaming is a popular way to connect absent guests, especially in this time of Covid.

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I provide outdoorsy couples who hate awkward poses, getting married in the Wairarapa, with documentary-style photography by a new best friend, so you will feel relaxed, and your photos will be an authentic memory of your day.

LucaliaPhotography.com/weddings

Insurance In a perfect world, when Covid was not lurking, and we knew the sun would always shine on the wedding day, we would not need insurance.

However, if the adage ‘peace of mind’ appeals, wedding insurance may be worth considering. It can cover such things as:

 Public liability – in case someone injures themselves at the wedding  A point worth knowing, is bad weather cannot be covered, although extreme conditions when guests cannot attend, have been considered  There are many companies who cover wedding insurance. Do some homework and check them out

 Cancellation of the entire event out of your control (covid, earthquake)  Cover if a supplier does not come up with the goods or service  Special specific cover for valuables like wedding rings, the cake, wedding attire, gifts

Celebrate

YOUR SPECIAL DAY SURROUNDED BY THE TIMELESS ELEGANCE OF

THE MASTERTON CLUB • • • •

Traditional elegant décor Competitive quotes Food from $45 per head, includes room hire and linen Beverages and wine at Club prices

• Marriage Celebrant service available • Sound system and big screen • Two interconnecting function rooms allow flexibility in numbers from 20 to 80 guests

MASTERTON CLUB (INC) Phone (06) 3773318 | Email inquiry@mastertonclubinc.co.nz For more information go to www.mastertonclubinc.co.nz WAIRARAPA WEDDINGS 2021

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Catering Just how many people you invite to share your wedding day relates directly to the cost of your catering.

A small wedding is considered around 50 people, a medium 50-150 and a large is over 150 guests. Caterers usually charge per head for food, and this can range from $50 - $150. So, food usually comes down to your budget.

Honouring your guests by feeding them is a tradition in many cultures.

There are many ways to do this and the New Zealand tradition of ‘bring your own’ is gaining favour. Essentially people just want to be there to celebrate with the happy couple and so if it’s bringing along their favourite wine and a plate, many are happy to. Another way to keep costs down is to provide some of the meal, like a spit roast, and get salads and desserts catered for. But for those who do want to cater all food, there’s a wide range of options. Wairarapa has many excellent caterers, some attached to venues and others independent.

Dietary requirements is a major consideration and it’s worth checking this carefully with your guests – are they vegetarian, vegan or have food allergies? Children’s requirements are another thing to consider. There’s nothing nicer than making them feel special and most caterers will oblige.

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Hireage When you’ve chosen that special space to get married in, the next step is to consider how to decorate it!

Many weddings in Wairarapa are held in community halls, in the outdoors, in family barns and other amazing places where wedding furniture is not exactly on hand. That’s where hire companies can step in and lead you through what’s required. They have a base checklist and will take couples through the proposed event prompting them if there’s something forgotten. Their experience in event management is highly valued among the wedding fraternity.

Bland places have been transformed with a bit of imagination and some decoration. The hire firms literally have it all, from marquees of varying sizes, portable toilets, tables and seating, tablecloths, lighting, music equipment, festive lights, the ever-popular white draped curtains, green walls, cutlery, crockery, and many things you wouldn’t have imaged.

It takes away the feeling of being overwhelmed at providing an event venue. Again, depending on your budget, the teams will come in and set it all up, or you can do some yourself. Pop into their showrooms and be prepared to be blown away by what’s on offer.

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Wairarapa’s local Event Hire Specialists.

We have your special day covered including: Marquees, Tables, Chairs, Catering equipment, dance floors, heating, shade, sound systems, linen, lighting, décor and much much more.

Proud to support this year’s Plunket Bride of the Year hireit@festivalhire.co.nz | www.festivalhire.co.nz Showroom: 21 Queen Street, Masterton | 06 378 9537 14

Save the date General etiquette says to send out ‘Save the Date’ cards seven to nine months before your wedding and wedding invitations eight weeks before your big day. This hopefully means everyone invited can have worked out if they are available to come. This is valuable if you are having to keep numbers low.

Often guest lists come in a Group A and Group B and can be re-arranged closer to the date. Most people don’t mind knowing where they stand. It’s best to keep everyone informed. There are many companies who will print

‘Save the Date’ cards and they come in all kinds of design, including a magnetised back, so it can be kept in full view on your fridge.

Important: Your ‘Save the date’ cards should include: Your names (it’s traditional to list the bride’s name first and for same-sex couples, consider alphabetising.) Your contact address and phone/email.

Invitations: Go into detail about the wedding.

Who is marrying who, where, what time and even a map of how to get there. An RSVP is required usually about a month before.

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Makeup & Complete the look. Seeking help from professionals (both men and women) is a good move. For women, talk with your hairdresser about the options for your wedding soon after your engagement so they can help you get the look you want, for example if you need to grow your hair longer for a specific style or if you are wanting to change your colour.

Remember a trial is always good for both you and your hairdresser.

For men with beards, they can look dramatic when professionally trimmed, as will their hair.

For women, the main message is to find a look that you want.

Makeup trends these days are varied and a bride’s glow can be accentuated with the appropriate application.

So, here’s a few hints from local professionals:

Our aim is to magnify the beauty that already exists!

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hair  Weddings photos last forever so it’s important the bride looks radiant and even a natural look you can often spend hours with a makeup artist gaining that impression  Having your skin in good condition is important and this preparation should begin months before a wedding with a good diet and daily usage of skin products.

Consult with a beautician  Don’t have a facial the day before the wedding in case of skin flare-ups  Derma blading is advised for anyone with fine facial hair as it gives a flawless finish to makeup  Remove skin blemishes and milia six weeks before

 A light spray tan always shows the dress off well but make sure you get the proper pre care as the more you exfoliate the better the tan

 Have a brightening manicure that polishes the hands and choose an elegant nail polish on manicured nails

 Eyebrows frame your face. See a brow professional to correctly colour match and design the brows well before the wedding

 Don’t forget your toes, especially if wearing sandals or open toed shoes.

Have a pedicure

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Celebrant Celebrants are encouraged to work with couples to provide a ceremony that meets their needs, and to help couples who wish to design and write their own. In all cases, the celebrant is responsible for ensuring all legal requirements are met.

Things you need to know:  Only people appointed by the Registrar-General as Marriage and/ or Civil Union Celebrants, and whose name appears in the List of Celebrants in the NZ Gazette, have

authority to solemnise marriages and/or civil unions in New Zealand  It is important that those at the wedding do know who the celebrant is. There has been a recent trend for a ‘friend’ of the couple to conduct the wedding, with an official celebrant just signing off on the legal requirements. This is not acceptable  The marriage licence is a document confirming that it is legal for the marriage between the two parties to go ahead  Two copies of ‘Particulars of Marriage’ or ‘Particulars of Civil

Union’ are signed in front of two witnesses and the celebrant at the ceremony. A copy of this is sent to the Registrar of Births Deaths and Marriages within 10 days of the ceremony. It is from this that a Marriage Certificate can be issued.

Not everyone requests a Marriage Certificate. – it is a nice to have, but not necessary

Celebrate life!

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Flowers Wedding flowers – the symbol of love and hope. Victor Hugo so eloquently put it: ‘Life is the flower for which love is the honey’. And, so at weddings, it seems only natural to adorn both the people and place with flowers.

Fresh flowers at a wedding are simply divine, especially when they have a fragrance like sweet pea or gardenia. Also, extremely popular are hydrangeas, tulips, calla lilies and peonies.

But Queen of them all is the rose.

Considered a symbol of beauty and love, roses figure in myths and fairy tales and so at weddings they so look the part. Roses can be expensive though and as flowers are estimated to take about 10 per cent of a total wedding budget, it’s best to choose wisely. Selecting in-season blooms at the time of your wedding, is sensible.

There is a beautiful trend to look at the natural surroundings and use not only garden flowers but leaves, twigs, moss, bracken and ponga.

Wedding bowers come in all forms

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from willow sticks (forever entwined) to bamboo (longevity, strength, and grace) and fernery. It can certainly help the budget when making your own decorations. A combination of both – the natural environment and flowers are ideal though.

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Beautiful wedding flowers for your special day Come and visit us, inside

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Music Choosing music for your wedding can be harder than you think. Do you want live musicians, a DJ or recorded music?

The wedding event goes through several stages and at each point, special music is nice to play. This can vary as much as people’s tastes, and so the sky is the limit – or in this case – the music!

A checklist of when music is required should be made up and then the couple to be married can sit down and discuss their preferences. It can be a lot of fun. Also check out the dance videos some couples have choreographed for their wedding. Most entertaining.

Events to consider playing music to are:  Guests arriving  The groom and team arriving  Bride arriving and the walk down the aisle  The moment they are married  Signing the register  At the drinks reception  Dinner music  Couples first dance  Dancing time Dancing at a wedding is symbolic that the now entwined families are stamping their approval on the union.

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MC It depends on how formal you want your wedding to be whether you choose to have an MC or not.

If you are wanting to keep everything on time and for your guests to be informed on what is happening an MC is a good choice to help take some pressure off you on the day. You can choose how much you would like the MC to be involved and what they feel comfortable with doing. Here are some tasks that the MC is often responsible for:  Help gather guests for photos

 Announce the arrival of the newlyweds to the wedding reception  Announce the first dance  Introduce speakers at the reception  Explain to guests about how meal service will occur  Introduce the cake cutting and bouquet throwing activities 

Let the guests know of other things available to do at the Wedding for example if you have a guest book or photo booth

 Help guests find their seats

Your fantasy wedding awaits Escape to magical Peppers Parehua and exchange your vows by the willow-fringed lake or the roaring fireplace. Whether an intimate gathering or grand occasion, Peppers Parehua is the truly inspiring fairytale setting you’ve been searching for.

To book, call (06) 306 8405 or visit peppers.co.nz/Parehua

WAIRARAPA WEDDINGS 2021

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The arrival The arrival and accommodation for your guests. Getting to your wedding ceremony can be a lot of fun. It’s a great way to be flamboyant and creative.

If your budget allows, arriving by helicopter or plane makes an impression. So does a horse-drawn carriage or a limousine. Keen cyclists have chosen to adopt their hobby arriving by bike. Vintage or classic cars look impressive too.

But for all that, the simple beauty of a couple arriving on foot from wherever they have prepared for their big day, is special.

Once your venue has been decided upon, it’s important to note where and what accommodation is available for the wedding party and guests. Book a bach, bed and breakfast places, motels and hotels in the vicinity can offer a range of prices and it’s good to point this out to guests.

For the couple, renting whole houses means families can stay together and make for special memories.

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Wedding Cars With Style

Phone 06 379 6559 Email: contact@classicrides.nz www.classicrides.nz

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Planner

12 MONTHS TO GO

11 MONTHS TO GO

 Settle on your budget

 Set up an appointment with a florist, photographer. Go prepared with your basic budget and ideas

 Pick the date & reserve venue  Start gathering names and addresses for your guest list  Begin your search for band, venue, photographer, florist & caterer

 Book your venues and catering company

 Book your officiant  Begin shopping for your dresses

10 MONTHS TO GO

9 MONTHS TO GO

 Finalise your guest list  Book your band or DJ

 Order/purchase your wedding gown

 Pick your wedding party

 Meet the caterers

 Contact your preferred rental company for any rentals you’ll need, including toilets for outdoor events, extra chairs, lighting components etc

 Book your hair and make-up specialists

6 MONTHS TO GO

5 MONTHS TO GO

 Select and purchase invitations, addressing cards can be time consuming

 Start composing a timeline for your wedding day

 Start planning your honeymoon  Make sure your passports are up-to-date  Arrange transportation  Order hair accessories and jewellery 24

 Start looking for wedding jewellery  Mail out your Save-the-Dates

 Book accommodation for your wedding night

4 MONTHS TO GO

3 MONTHS TO GO

 Select and order the cake

 Finalise the menu and flowers

 Send your guest list to the host of your hen’s and stag parties

 Order favours

 Purchase wedding shoes and start dress fitting

 Send your event schedule to the vendors

 Schedule hair and make up trial

 Make a list of people giving toasts

2 MONTHS TO GO

1 MONTH TO GO

 Touch base with all vendors to answer any questions

 Enter RSVPs and phone people who have not responded

 Get your marriage licence sorted

 Visit the dress maker for your final fitting.

 Send out invitations  Meet photographer  Review playlist with band or DJ

 Purchase the rings

 Send out as many final payments as you can  Do a seating plan  Write vows, if necessary

2 WEEKS TO GO

1 WEEK TO GO

 Purchase gifts for bridal party

 Reconfirm arrival times with vendors

 Give drivers of transport vehicles directions

 Delegate small wedding day tasks

 Send a timeline to the bridal party

 Pick up your dress

 Pack for your honeymoon

 Send the final guest list to the caterer and all venues hosting your wedding related events

 Book a spa treatment

WAIRARAPA WEDDINGS 2021

SHARISSE EBERLEIN PHOTOGRAPHER

25

Alcohol, drinks options If you and your partner don’t drink alcohol but your friends and family do, it’s nice to have some available, even if it’s just beer and wine. If you feel strongly about not having any alcohol available at all, you can skip it.

But don’t let guests go thirsty! There are many non-alcoholic wines, beers, and fruit juice on the market these days. Sparkling water is extremely enjoyed too. Ever popular are bowls of fruit punch, with or without alcohol. Then there’s the specialised cocktails which guests love to try.

Personalised wines are also popular.

Some enterprising couples have created their own signature drink too. Like many parts of wedding planning – imagination is the only limit.

If you are serving alcohol, plan to serve one drink per guest per hour of reception. Another way to work out how much to provide, consider 150 GUESTS = 105 bottles of wine, 266 bottles of beer, 22 bottles of liquor (750ml).

Open bars at weddings are when the host pays for all the alcohol their

26

D&A PHOTOGRAPHY

guests drink. The price of an open bar for a wedding reception can vary from $200 to $15,000 dependant on guest numbers and their drinking enthusiasm.

AS QUOTED NAME

$

NAME

$

NAME

$

ADVERTISING FEATURE

WAIRARAPA 2021

wine directory

Le Grá 2020 Pinot Rose Bubbles 750ML

LE GRÁ VINEYARD AND WINERY LEGRA.co.nz

Te Tera 2019 Pinot Noir

Te Kairanga 2020 Rosé

750ML

750ML

MARTINBOROUGH VINEYARD

TE KAIRANGA

Johner Methode Traditionnelle NV Brut Wairarapa 750ML

JOHNER ESTATE

750ML

MATAHIWI ESTATE

FOLEYWINECLUB.co.nz

FOLEYWINECLUB.co.nz

Matahiwi Estate Winery Brut Rose NV

URLAR Gladstone 2020 Pinot Rosé

750ML

750ML

Moy Hall Rosé 2021 August release

2018 ‘The Rose’ Pinot Noir Methode Traditionnelle

Palliser Estate 2018 ‘The Grifÿn’ Methode Traditionnelle

MATAHIWI ESTATE

URLAR VINEYARD

750ML

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MOYHALL.nz

PALLISER.co.nz

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URLAR.co.nz

WAIRARAPA WEDDINGS 2021

MOY HALL

JOHNER-ESTATE.com

Matahiwi Estate Winery Blanc de Blanc NV

PALLISER ESTATE

MATAHIWI.co.nz

PALLISER ESTATE

27

Bride

wedding rings The ring is an emblem of companionship through time, a symbol of devotion and an agreement between parties.

The tradition and symbolism of the ring is as strong today as it has ever been.

Bridalwear

A circle has no beginning or end and is therefore a symbol of infinity. It is endless and eternal.

A wedding dress or bridal gown is the dress worn by the bride during a wedding ceremony. The colour, style and ceremonial importance of the gown can depend on the religion and culture of the wedding participants.

Wedding rings are most often worn on the fourth finger from the right on the left hand, particularly in western countries but, you’re also welcome to wear your wedding ring on the righthand ring finger.

In western cultures, white gowns have been adopted following Queen Victoria and Albert’s marriage in 1840. In the eastern world red is considered good luck and depicts promising fortune.

For brides, considering the outfit they wish to wear to be married in, is one of the most major decisions in the wedding planning. It is deeply personal and there are many bridal businesses which can help. There is a growing trend towards the re-use of dresses too making it more affordable for brides to look a million dollars, without breaking the bank!

AS QUOTED NAME NAME AUGUST & VINE PHOTOGRAPHY

NAME

Bloomwood Flower Design WEDDING VENUE

Boutique wedding florist based in Gladstone Wairarapa.

Creating natural, elegant wedding floristry.

pukaha.org.nz/weddings

28

0210434754

|

bron@bloomwood.co.nz

www.bloomwood.co.nz

& Groom Groomswear Grooms can have just as much fun dressing for their wedding. Depending on the weather, they can be as casual as wearing open neck shirt and shorts with sandals, when it’s warm but most take on the glamour of the event and go for classic dress such as a three-piece suit, tuxedo, tailcoat, or morning dress.

If you want to be a bit more casual, you could wear a suit of wool or velvet, have a floral pocket square, or a checked button-down shirt. If you are daring enough, there’s always patterned jackets or if you really want to make an impression, a vivid jewel colour or popping pastel would do the trick.

$ $ $

D & A PHOTOGRAPHY

THE LANDING HOMEBUSH The Landing at Homebush is a stand alone 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 a number of outdoor areas such 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.

WAIRARAPA WEDDINGS 2021

ADVERTORIAL

Guests for sit-down: up to 150 Ceremony facilities: Yes Catering: Facilities available Accommodation: 4 rooms

35b Pokohiwi Road Homebush, Masterton E info@landingathomebush.co.nz www.landingathomebush.co.nz

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LUCALIA PHOTOGRAPHY

Bridal party General etiquette is that bridesmaids and groomsmen pay for their own outfits for the wedding.

However, often the couple being married will factor this into the wedding budget and the clothing becomes part of the gift of thanks to the wedding party.

BRITT LEVERIDGE DESIGN & PHOTOGRAPHY

Just what those supporting the marrying couple actually wear is again as wide as imagination allows. Usually both bridesmaids and groomsmen wear the same outfits but again it depends on what style is being presented. Best show you in pictures.

AS QUOTED NAME $ NAME $ NAME $

Children + Babies Designer Boutique clothing - shoes - gifts - accessories STORE HOURS MON/TUES/THURS/FRI 10-4, WEDS/SAT 10-3.

446 Queen Street, Kuripuni, Masterton 30

Cake The wedding cake. It’s full of symbolism. The tradition of a wedding cake goes way back to Roman times when a ‘cake’ of meal was crumbled over a bride’s head to provide good luck. Through the centuries, the cake has symbolised fortune and fertility and brings good luck to anyone who eats it.

It used to be only the bride who cut the wedding cake but today, both partners share in the cake-cutting ritual. It also used to be that the cake was made in three tiers. The bottom for eating at the reception, the middle to distribute as gifts and souvenirs, and the top was for the first anniversary or as a christening cake for the couple’s first child.

Tradition has it too, that the couple feed each other the first slice, and if they wish, then serve a piece to their new in-laws. The cake is then taken away to be sliced before being offered to each guest, or should any guests prefer to take theirs home, are presented in pretty or personalised boxes.

Let me capture those special moments on your big day Britt Leveridge - Design & Photography www.brittleveridge.com brittleveridge@gmail.com 0278927589 WAIRARAPA WEDDINGS 2021

31

Decorations How you decorate your wedding venue and set the tables for your guests is as vast as your imagination.

Everything from stylish and formal to a carefree buffet meal goes. Seek the services of a wedding planner or event hire firm to get ideas. Also consider the venue itself and how you would like to play on the theme. A barn lends itself to earthy colours and textures, while a white marquee looks great with fresh white lights.

For sit-down meals it is a good idea to create a seating plan and have name tags for the guests. This can be a fun way to mix and match people. How and what you write their names on can range from named fruit to formal guest cards. Go for it. Anything goes...

AS QUOTED NAME

$

NAME

$

NAME

$

La Fleure Floriste your local wedding specialists

Local industry leaders of high quality, innovative, exceptional floral designs 06 377 0487 • www.lafleurefloriste.co.nz 206 Queen Street, Masterton

32

Children Now is a good time to think about how you are going to include children in your special day, if they are attending the wedding.

If you have children from previous relationships you may want to include the children in the ceremony with a gift for the children for example a special necklace or Pounamu.

Another idea is for each person to have a container of coloured sand which they all pour into one container to signify everyone coming together.

to include the children, to keep them informed.

When you have children attending your wedding, whether they are your own or guests it is a long day for them, during the ceremony and speeches a little actiivtiy pack can keep them well entertained.

It would also be a good idea to talk to your venue as they may have activies to help keep the children entertained.

It may be appropriate to talk with the other parents on how you are going

WAIRARAPA WEDDINGS 2021

33

The legal bits The legal things to know about marrying your loved one.  Before you get married, you need to apply for a licence. A licence confirms it’s legal for you to marry.

It costs $150 if you use a celebrant, and a registry ceremony costs $240 in total  You need to arrange your licence at least three working days before you get married. If your wedding does not go ahead, the licence expires after three months. Only one person needs to complete the application but there is information about both people wishing to marry

 You can apply online or obtain a paper form from your local courthouse  Two people over 18 years must witness the marriage ceremony and sign the Marriage Register and Certificates  Once the licence is signed and returned by an officiant, a marriage certificate is issued

LE GRA MEANS WITH LOVE

Le Grá Vineyard and winery offers the perfect spot to ‘tie the knot’, ‘get hitched‘ and ‘say I do‘.

Beautifully tended vines, views up to the Tararua ranges, charming accomodation and a fabulous ‘green’ creates a stunning canvas for your special day. From a fun food truck caterer to a threecourse meal we offer the flexibility to host it all. Let us help you coordinate your big day so you can relax, unwind and get wed!

42 Loopline Rd | 027 448 6433 | www.legra.co.nz 34

Gifts

With many couples now living together prior to getting married, the original idea for a gift registry of ensuring that the couple received only what they needed to set-up their home together has changed.

appreciate a contribution towards our dream honeymoon.’

Or you can select items from a store and your guests can either purchase it for you or put money towards it.

Now it is a good way to guide your guests when they don’t know what to get you. Some people ask for money towards a big ticket item and include the request on their invitation which can read something like:

LUCALIA PHOTOGRAPHY

‘your presence at our wedding is enough of a gift, but should you wish to buy us something, we’d greatly

Proudly Made in New Zealand

wedding gift The perfect

Cushions, lamps, artwork, mirrors, boutique clothing & jewellery.

Call in and see us 209 Chapel St, Masterton. P 06 370 8766 www.thewholenineyards.co.nz

WAIRARAPA WEDDINGS 2021

Factory Store open 8.30-4.30 Monday-Friday Lincoln Road, Masterton Ph 06 378 8891 www.masterweavetextiles.com 35

Our mission is to provide you with a memorable and inspiring experience At Blue Carrot Catering, we strive to provide you with the best experience possible.

We have a strong focus on sustainability, while providing you with fresh, creative and delicious catering. We are proud to be a living wage company. With 20 years of experience servicing the Wairarapa, there's no one better for catering your next event!

fresh. creative. delicious.

36

04 568 8838 | sales@bluecarrot.co.nz www.bluecarrot.co.nz

Favours Hosting a wedding is never a singular affair done by the couple to be married. There are the families, bridesmaids, groomsmen, neighbours, friends, and service people who all come together to make it a winning event.

When it’s all over, it’s nice to acknowledge the kind efforts of these people. Large and small, they helped make it happen. In wedding-speak, they are called ‘wedding favours.’

Loren and Mike, featured on our cover, handed out Mead made from the Honeybees on Loren’s parents’ farm and had personalised labels made.

It was one gesture of thanks they thought appropriate.

You can adapt and personalise your thank you gifts to suit your wedding.

Check out online an amazing array of ideas.

Sweet Beginnings

Bloomwood Flower Design

Say thanks with Hinakura Honey Enquire today to find out about Hinakura Honey personalised favours!

MR

& MRS

SM

JU

ITH

16

R&J LY 2 0 2 0

Boutique wedding florist based in Gladstone Wairarapa.

Creating natural, elegant wedding floristry.

0210434754 sales@hinakurahoney.co.nz | www.hinakurahoney.co.nz

WAIRARAPA WEDDINGS 2021

|

bron@bloomwood.co.nz

www.bloomwood.co.nz 37

After the big day So, the dust from your wedding has settled. You have returned home to begin life as a married couple. Whether you have been living together for years, or not, you are embarking on a whole new stage in your life.

at you but working together will make it a great life. Weddings are a sacred ceremony. Two people’s love for each other has been acknowledged and now two families have entwined.

Martin Luther summed it up well: “There is no more lovely, friendly, and charming relationship, communion or company, than a good marriage.”

That of a married person. It comes with all the joys and upsets life throws

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.

100 Main Street Greytown www.thelollyjar.co.nz

thelollyjargreytown@gmail.com

06 304 8436

www.facebook.com/thelollyjarnz 38

CARTERTON EVENTS CENTRE

YOUR UNIQUE & AFFORDABLE WAIRARAPA WEDDING OPTION

Make our venue your dream space for your special day A wedding for 40 or 400 we have a space that will work for you.

www.cartertonec.co.nz - ph: 06 379 4081 - email: events@cartertonec.co.nz

WAIRARAPA WEDDINGS 2021

39

I

t is our great pleasure to be able to welcome you to the 51st Wairarapa Bride of the Year, after the 2020 event was cancelled because of the threats of Covid-19.

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 our beautiful brides, and of course raise funds for Wairarapa Plunket.

This year, the funds will contribute towards maintaining the local offices and providing toys for the children for whom Plunket plays such a significant role in the development of their and their whanau’s health and wellbeing 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.

to be able to put together this event.

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 August 2019 and 30th June 2021.

We look forward to celebrating Bride of the Year at the Carterton Events Centre for the first time, which will allow up to 320 people to attend.

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, Elise, Ellie, Wendy, Shelley, MJ and Eve are thrilled

Weddings | Elopements | Engagements Martinborough, Wairarapa & beyond www.augustandvine.co.nz | @augustandvinephotos 40

Our judges this year are Margaret Bourke, Nicole Marsden, Paul Edgar Bird and Nicole Brown Their judging criteria for the brides is: first impression, sense of confidence, posture and stance, connection to the audience, dress, and overall look.

This year we are also introducing an audience choice, and brides’ choice award.

To all our providers, thank you for your ongoing support for this fantastic event.

To our brides, we hope you really enjoy reliving your big day. To the previous Bride of the Year committee, thank you for entrusting us with your legacy.

Committee

Judges

Margaret Bourke

Nicole Marsden

Paul Edgar Bird

Nicole Brown

Past Plunket committee organiser for Wairarapa Bride of the Year.

Professional Photographer.

(Le’ to Right) Shelley Mason, Eve Williams, Wendy Morrison, Renee Gleeson, MJ Terry (Seated) Elise Renwick and Ellie Francis

MC

Music Sustainable Fashion Designer.

Grant Harding

Wendy Morrison

PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY

Cosmetic Tattooist and Make up Artist.

Jack Moser

Your locally owned newspaper

41

7PM SATURDAY 7 AUGUST DOORS OPEN AT 6.15PM

Paige Gray

Ebony Davison-Coffey

Abigail Thomas-Wilkins

Deanna Drinnan

nee WITHERS

nee THOMAS 42

nee DAVISON

nee CLEMENT

FUNDRAISING FOR WAIRARAPA PLUNKET

Sabella Thurston-Butler

Georgia Tomuri

Tammy Christiansen

Sierra Jellyfox

nee THURSTON

nee HASTINGS

nee HAGAR

nee OLDERSHAW 43

7PM SATURDAY 7 AUGUST DOORS OPEN AT 6.15PM

Michaela McGhie

Barbara Christensen

Kylie Winter

Laura Anderson

nee LEASK

nee SCOTT 44

nee HERRICK

nee NEUSTROSKI

FUNDRAISING FOR WAIRARAPA PLUNKET

Stacey McClure-Byron

Becca Oehley

Melanie Clement

Heather Leslie

nee BYRON

nee O’LEARY

nee THOMSON

nee COOTE

45

7PM SATURDAY 7 AUGUST DOORS OPEN AT 6.15PM

Chloe Kincaid nee KINCAID

Morgan Turner nee MCLELLAN

Wairarapa Bride of the Year 7PM | SATURDAY 7TH AUGUST | CARTERTON EVENT CENTRE

TICKETS ON SALE NOW Tickets can be purchased from Evans of Masterton for $30.00 (cash only) OR Online at Carterton Event Centre for $30.00 + fees

Brooke Simonov nee MERCER 46

SUPPER INCLUDED I DOORS OPEN AT 6:15PM I BAR AVAILABLE Refer to our Facebook page for our term and conditions

FUNDRAISING FOR WAIRARAPA PLUNKET

WAIRARAPA BRIDE of the YEAR COMMITTEE

Thank you to our sponsors: Your locally owned newspaper

B.W. O’Brien & Co Ltd Bed Bath & Beyond Bloomwood Flowers Blushing Beauty & Makeup Artistry Brackenridge Country Retreat and Spa - Martinborough Carterton District Council/ Carterton Events Centre Castlepoint Accomodation Clareville Nursery Copthorne Hotel & Resort Solway Park Wairarapa Countdown Masterton Duncans Pharmacy Escarpment Winery

Farriers Bar & Eatery Festival Hire GardenBarn Green Jersey Cycle Tours and Bicycle Hire Guthrie Bowron Masterton Harcourts Hamill Reality Isme Permanent Cosmetics Nicole Brown Cosmetic Tattooing The Glow up by Kuii Align Floats and Massage Exit tattoo removal Shine white teeth whitening Kiss the Bride Wedding Hair and Makeup

Masterweave

Sweetery

Matahiwi Winery

Taylors Drycleaners

MoreFM Wairarapa 89.5

Ten O’clock Bakery Cafe

Newbolds Masterton

The Breeze Wairarapa 99.9

Pain & Kershaw Martinborough

The Edge 95.9 Wairarapa

Peppers Parehua & Peppers Pavilion Restaurant

The OŸering

Poppys at Home Pukaha National Wildlife Centre Rahui Coastal Loop - Lucinda Maunsell

The Lab The Screening Room The Sign Factory The White Swan The Whole Nine Yards Tirohana Estate

Rochelle & Graeme Burnard

Tremains Wairarapa

Sarah Watkins/ Lucalia Photography

Wairarapa Times-Age

Wai Shuttles

WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU AT THE EVENT ON SATURDAY 7 AUGUST AT 7PM, AT THE CARTERTON EVENT CENTRE. We do wedding transport

06 370 6600

Calli Boutique Sustainable: Ethical: Reducing the fashion footprint Beautiful garments available for hire to appease all woman

✓ Bouquet ✓ Bridal Gown ✓ Bridesmaids

✓BUS

Recycled wardrobe boutique selling good quality items on behalf of other woman

P 027 351 0642 E calli_boutique_@outlook.com

47

At Copthorne Solway Park we have a dedicated team who can create a wedding which is distinctively you.

A range of spectacular facilities all in one venue.

CONTACT OUR WEDDING & EVENTS TEAM ON 0800SOLWAY OR VIKKI@SOLWAY.CO.NZ

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