Choosing the location for your wedding celebrations is one of the earliest and most important decisions you’ll have to make when it comes to planning your big day. Whether your ideal venue is a grand hotel, a country retreat or your parents’ garden, there are a number of things to consider before making your choice.
saying ‘I do!’
Firstly, decide upon your ceremony location. You probably have an idea of the type of ceremony you’d like – it could take place in a church or registry office, or just about anywhere if you’re having a civil ceremony. If you hold it in a separate location, the general rule is that your venue should be no more than 20 minutes’ drive away so that your guests don’t have too far to travel between the two locations.
religion rules
If you share religious backgrounds you may like to get married in a church, synagogue or mosque. This is still a popular option even if you are of different faiths or you are not regularly practising your religion, as it gives an air of tradition. Keep in mind that you may have to fulfill certain commitments beforehand, and be sure to ask what options there are for personalising elements of your ceremony such as the vows, music or flowers, and what costs will be involved.
quick and easy
Exchange your vows in a registry office if you want a relatively simple ceremony with minimum costs. While the environment may not seem exciting, with a few personal touches you can create a pleasant, relaxed atmosphere.
the sky’s the limit!
When it comes to civil ceremonies, you are limited only by your imagination and your budget. The service can be as formal or casual as you like. This option is ideal if you are of mixed faiths, have different ethnic backgrounds, have no religious affiliation or want to personalise your ceremony, as you can incorporate as much or as little of your religion or cultural traditions into the service as you like. You can also combine your ceremony with your reception at one location. Function centres and many hotels, houses, restaurants or clubs are equipped to host your entire day, styled to fit your theme. This would allow you more time with your guests, create an easy flow to the day, and possibly save you money with a package deal.
dare to be different
Incorporate a shared hobby and exchange your vows in a unique way – underwater, on the top of a mountain, at a theme park, while sky diving, even in a hot air balloon. If you can get a celebrant to agree to it, you can be as creative as you like!
holiday romance Alternatively, combine your wedding and honeymoon and have a weddingmoon. Either secretly elope, or invite your loved ones to join you on a memorable trip to an overseas destination.
the perfect place to party
The venue and setting you choose for your reception plays a big part in reflecting the theme of your wedding – you may go for rural charm, urban chic, traditional or relaxed – even medieval! This is what you can expect from the different types of venues.
hotel A hotel can be a grand setting for a formal wedding. They are usually beautifully decorated and little, if anything, needs to be hired in the form of equipment. They have staff experienced at hosting weddings, and many offer packages including food and drink with a price per head and room hire, so it should be clear from the start what the total cost will be.
Hotel
Hotels can accommodate a large number of guests, with the option of spending the night, and are suitable for both the ceremony and reception. Some even give you the first night’s accommodation when you book your reception. However, sometimes the packages offered don’t leave you much room for adding your own personal touches, and there may be other parties at the hotel.
vineyard
New Zealand is home to hundreds of vineyards with spectacular settings and superb wines creating a truly elegant atmosphere. Nestled in rolling, vine-covered hills, a vineyard has a unique indoor-outdoor setting, perfect for combining a ceremony and reception. It typically has all the essentials you need for your big day, not to mention beautiful photo backdrops when the vines are at their best. Bear in mind that facilities are sometimes remote and you may be restricted to serving only the wine from the estate. You may also like to check that there is sufficient nearby accommodation for your guests to stay, or you could organise group transportation.
home
A wedding at home creates a warm and personal mood, and can be as formal or as informal as you like. Bear in mind that this option may require a greater time commitment for you and your families. Decide if you want it fully-catered or do-it-yourself, themed or traditional, day or night – the possibilities are endless. Size is a critical factor, with many couples making use of a marquee if the garden is suitable – just remember you have to deal with the mess the next day.
marquee
Available in a variety of shapes, sizes and styles, it is their flexibility that makes marquees a popular choice for weddings. Magnificent lighting, plants and furnishings create a beautiful and elegant ambience in a marquee. They are a great option if you are having a large number of guests or want to make sure your friends and family will be covered in the event of rain. The costs are becoming increasingly competitive and the furnishings available are amazing. You may need to organise furniture, heating and flooring hirage, but often this is offered as part of a package with your marquee company, or they will have specialists that they work with who’ll ensure it all runs smoothly.
boat
Weddings on the water have an unconventional allure – you and your guests can enjoy an ever-changing panoramic view, plus fresh sights, smells and sounds all day long, not to mention a spectacularly romantic atmosphere come nightfall. There are some truly magnificent boats available for weddings and it will surely create a day that you and your guests will remember forever. Don’t forget that there may be some restrictions on the time of year a boat operates, plus you need to consider older guests and those who get seasick.
restaurant/bar
You may like to have your reception at your favourite restaurant or bar, especially if they have a private room. Catering, drinks, lighting and furniture are part and parcel, and the décor is stylish. Usually restaurants and bars are on the smaller side and therefore suited to more intimate weddings. You should be able to organise a price per person including the hire of the room.
historical building or lodge
Stunning historic buildings exist all over the country – many museums, castles, and lavish stately homes are available for weddings. You may be restricted with decorations but the décor is usually ornate enough without extra embellishments.
private clubs
Boat clubs, golf clubs and exclusive country clubs occasionally open their doors to non-members. With luxurious rooms and lush grounds, they generally offer the same amenities as hotels with a more intimate atmosphere.
the great outdoors
Parks, reserves or beaches are wonderful locations for themed weddings. After gaining permission from the local council, you could host a Hawaiian-style wedding at the beach followed by a traditional luau, a picnic reception at a beautiful park, or cocktails beside a picturesque lake. If you go for the beach, remember to check what the tide will be like on the day as you don’t want mudflats as a backdrop! The unique geography of New Zealand will give your wedding a distinct Kiwi flavour and offer some magnificent photo opportunities. There are also some stunning botanical and rose gardens dotted around the country that are incredibly romantic. Beware: privacy may not be guaranteed in outdoor spots. Most importantly, always have a back-up plan in case of bad weather. And check whether you need a liquor license and mobile toilets.
