Kapiti Weddings http://kapitiweddings.co.nz The Wedding Directory for the Kapiti Coast Tue, 18 Dec 2018 04:04:11 +0000 en-NZ hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=4.9.3 http://kapitiweddings.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/cropped-Fav-1-32x32.jpg Kapiti Weddings http://kapitiweddings.co.nz 32 32 FIVE ESSENTIALS TO PACK ON YOUR WEDDING DAY http://kapitiweddings.co.nz/five-essentials-to-pack-on-wedding-day/ http://kapitiweddings.co.nz/five-essentials-to-pack-on-wedding-day/#respond Thu, 15 Nov 2018 23:18:07 +0000 http://kapitiweddings.co.nz/?p=3188   There is nothing quite like rocking into your wedding day feeling prepared for anything. Babysitter’s booked in? Check. Hair and makeup artists arriving on schedule? Check. Maid of honour has the run sheet for the day and a fully ...Read More

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Photo by Jenny Siaosi

 

There is nothing quite like rocking into your wedding day feeling prepared for anything. Babysitter’s booked in? Check. Hair and makeup artists arriving on schedule? Check. Maid of honour has the run sheet for the day and a fully charged phone? Check. You’ve got everything under control. And then it happens – you hear a teeny, tiny little tearing sound as you’re getting out of the car in your wedding dress, about to walk down the aisle.

 

Not to worry, because you’ve come prepared! We’ve prepared a quick checklist of five essentials to pack on the day – because you never know what you might need.

 

 

Photo by Deanna Walker

 

SEWING KIT

This might seem like a simple one, but a sewing kit can (almost) save lives on your wedding day! Sneak it into the purse of one of your bridesmaids for safe-keeping, and make sure it’s stocked with thread and needle, safety pins and some scissors. It’s inevitable that your dress, or your bridesmaids’ dresses, will go through some wear and tear on the day (especially if you’re out on the dance floor early) – so come well-equipped and worry free!

 

BABY WIPES

Guests leaving half of their makeup behind on the groom’s suit after the hugs and congratulations? Keep a small pack of baby wipes on hand to get rid of foundation marks or lipstick pecks.

 

 

Photo by Jenny Siaosi

 

HAIRSPRAY

While we are lucky enough to live in a part of New Zealand with some incredible, rugged and picturesque landscapes, that also means wind, and lots of it. Wellington hairdressers are generally well experienced in creating looks that can withstand the elements, and aren’t shy at using plenty of hairspray. Keeping a spare can of spray, and a few bobby pins, in your emergency bag during the day means you can whip your hair back into place if Wellington throws a particularly nasty gust of wind at you!

 

 

Photo by Deanna Walker

 

HEEL STOPPERS AND FLAT SHOES

If you’re rocking some killer heels under your wedding dress, it’s a great idea to pick up some heel stoppers to make sure you don’t end up sinking into any soft ground, especially if you’re wandering through grass for photos! Or even more comfortable, pack a pair of flat shoes that you can slip into. If you’re wearing a full length gown, you won’t usually see them anyway – no one will know, and your feet will thank you for it!

 

WATER AND SNACKS

All too often, brides get caught up in the stress of the preparation that they forget, or can’t find time, to eat! Make sure you keep yourself well hydrated, and get one of your bridesmaids to carry a couple of quick snacks. The last thing you want is to feel faint or dehydrated – so make sure you keep your energy levels up throughout the day!

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CATERING TRENDS WITH SUNDAY CANTINA http://kapitiweddings.co.nz/catering-trends-sunday-cantina/ http://kapitiweddings.co.nz/catering-trends-sunday-cantina/#respond Thu, 08 Nov 2018 23:22:29 +0000 http://kapitiweddings.co.nz/?p=3039   As with anything, wedding catering trends come and go – so we decided to talk to the team at Sunday Cantina about what’s up and coming, and what’s being left behind, in the world of wedding food. New Zealand ...Read More

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Raw slices from Sunday Cantina

 

As with anything, wedding catering trends come and go – so we decided to talk to the team at Sunday Cantina about what’s up and coming, and what’s being left behind, in the world of wedding food. New Zealand has so much to offer in the way of fresh, locally sourced produce, and there’s a real return to the organic, natural produce in wedding catering, and a push to cater for meat-eaters and vegans alike. 

 

 

WHAT’S HOT

Different, creative ideas around catering.Couples seem to be moving away from the traditional sit-down dinner and are getting creative and more personal with fun and different ideas for their special day and the food they are serving… Innovative, creative and fun entertainment has become the bar for catering. more interactive catering with buffet-style service, slider and BBQ stations, ice cream and mocktail/cocktail stations are seen in all aspects of catering, not only for weddings. Food is something people will talk about long after the event, it needs to be fresh, innovative, creative and of course delicious.”

 

Keeping it fresh and healthy.People want fresh, local produce, a healthy and tasty menu; more vegetarian and vegan foods are incorporated in the menu, not just as an alternative for vegetarians, but as a beautiful taste way of eating… Most of our dishes originate from wholefood, so there aren’t any additives or gluten in them. Fresh, local food is all you need to create a tasty menu full of flavour, colour and texture.”

 

Getting involved. “Another trend we are seeing, is that people want to be more involved with food: from a ‘make-your-own-sunday’-station instead of a traditional dessert, to a freshly-cooked-sliders-station to satisfy those savoury cravings, and to get people up and moving. We are even receiving fun-requests to bring ‘Cantina Food Trailer’ for a different element of the wedding catering.”

Broccoli salad from Sunday Cantina

 

WHAT’S NOT

Sit down dinners.  “A classic sit-down dinner to try and satisfy all your guests taste buds is becoming rare, the focus has moved towards a more creative and fun menu, that is reflecting the couple. Couples desire a more interactive way of food service, a way for their guests to interact and share. One great way to do this is through family-shared platters on the table.”

 

Big wedding cakes.A big wedding cake is something we see less of these days. With all the new and happening food trends a wedding cake is becoming obsolete in many couple’s special day. A popular trend and delicious substitute is a layered ‘cake’ made out of different cheeses.” A cheese-cake? Yes please!

 

Flatlay of slice with flowers from Sunday Cantina

 

TOP THREE TIPS FOR COUPLES PLANNING THEIR WEDDING, AND LOOKING FOR A CATERER?

 

  • “The food needs to be tasty and full of flavour. You eat with your eyes first, so it definitely needs to look good, but every bite that follows needs to be amazing.”
  • “Ask your caterer to help you with flavour combinations. The different menu options are great, but some combine better together than others. Your caterer will know exactly which dishes and flavours will complement each other.”
  • “Finally, a very solid tip, we think, is to choose dishes that are not seen everywhere else. Set yourself aside and choose a menu that will have your guests talking long after your special day.”

 

Catering from Sunday Cantina

 

Want to know more about their incredible menus, catering, cooking classes and more? Head over to their listing and cook up some ideas for feeding the masses on your big day!

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REAL WINTER WEDDING INSPIRATION http://kapitiweddings.co.nz/real-winter-wedding-inspiration/ http://kapitiweddings.co.nz/real-winter-wedding-inspiration/#respond Thu, 01 Nov 2018 22:33:10 +0000 http://kapitiweddings.co.nz/?p=3093   It’s time to think about you. The two of you. What do you want? What is important to you? Perhaps it’s taking a moment in the day with just the two of you – a five minute walk away ...Read More

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Bride and groom in winter light

 

It’s time to think about you. The two of you. What do you want? What is important to you?

Perhaps it’s taking a moment in the day with just the two of you – a five minute walk away from the crowds. Perhaps it’s spending some quality time catching up with your loved ones, who have flown from the other side of the world to join you on your day. The day flies by so fast, couples are often left thinking, “I wish I had taken the time to…”. That makes choosing the right photographer is so key – to capture all those important moments, all the special people in your lives.

Aimee and Taka’s day was magical from start to finish. Completely surrounded by love, family and friends, these two tied the knot on a winter’s day in the Kāpiti Coast at St Mary’s Catholic Church in Ōtaki. Jenny, from Siaosi Photography, captured their day to perfection, focusing on everything that was important to them. The unpredictable weather (hello rainstorms in summer and dreamy sunlight in winter!) actually played along nicely, and these two gorgeous people managed to find a few moments to themselves under a glowing, golden late afternoon sun.  

If you’re eagerly awaiting your wedding day and are in need of some real wedding inspiration, take a gander over some of Jenny’s shots from Aimee and Taka’s wedding. The love between these two and their families is so clear (and, not to mention, they have impeccable taste – how gorgeous is that dress, the flowers, the suits and that cake!). Get caught up in their smiles, the laughter and the love – and think: what’s important to us?

 

Bridal makeup Intricate details of wedding dress Bridesmaids helping bride Aimee get ready Bridesmaids helping bride Aimee get ready Bridesmaids helping bride Aimee get ready Wedding ceremony Bridesmaids' bouquets Bridal flowers Bride and groom on bridge Bridal party at winter wedding Bride and groom in winter light Wedding cake with white icing Table floral arrangements

 

And here’s to some of the incredible people who helped make their day happen:

Photography: Siaosi Photography

Flowers and Decor: Wildrose Florist

Makeup Artist: Emma Doolan

Hair: Jamie Daly

Dress: Pallas Couture

Rings: Vera Wang

 

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TOP TIPS FROM THE WEDDING CRASHERS http://kapitiweddings.co.nz/top-tips-wedding-crashers/ http://kapitiweddings.co.nz/top-tips-wedding-crashers/#respond Fri, 12 Oct 2018 20:53:14 +0000 http://kapitiweddings.co.nz/?p=3015   You might be thinking that your Spotify playlist of Party Anthems might be all you need for entertainment at your wedding reception – but think again! Entertainment on the night is pivotal in making your event enjoyable – both ...Read More

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Bride being thrown into air

 

You might be thinking that your Spotify playlist of Party Anthems might be all you need for entertainment at your wedding reception – but think again! Entertainment on the night is pivotal in making your event enjoyable – both for your guests, and for yourself. We spoke to Dean from The Wedding Crashers – their team are absolute professionals when it comes to keeping the party going with slick DJ entertainment and production.

“Bands are cool, but the advantage of a DJ is that the range of music is much wider than a ‘set list’ of a dozen or so songs. Also, a professional wedding DJ will set up the equipment BEFORE the guests arrive, and provide music and sound support for the reception, speeches and dinner too. Your DJ will often provide sound support and a lapel mic for the ceremony as well – absolutely essential if you plan to have your ceremony in an outdoor location. Tasteful music throughout the day can transform a wedding into an all-day party!”

We decided to pick Dean’s brain for a few key tips and tricks for hiring wedding entertainment!

 

 

DO YOUR RESEARCH

You’re reading this post, so you’re taking the first step here! “Do your research on wedding convention and plan your wedding so it ‘flows’ nicely – an under-planned wedding can ‘lose shape’ and the guests tend to drift off or miss out on the key moments.”

 

Bride at a wedding

 

PICK THE RIGHT PERSON AS MC

We’ve all seen it – cringeworthy speeches and inappropriate jokes. Dean’s advice? “Choose your wedding MC carefully! The MC is an often-overlooked, but incredibly important role and can make or break a wedding (we’ve seen both happen!). A good MC doesn’t need to be a stand-up comedian, in fact the best MC’s are often very dry. The main role is to introduce the speakers, make announcements and just keep the event going. Avoid the use of Google wedding jokes too – tacky.”

 

Close up of DJ deck

 

USE A PROFESSIONAL

“Book a professional for your entertainment needs – a laptop or Spotify playlist just doesn’t cut it! A machine is not an entertainer and it is a major opportunity lost,” says Dean. “Make sure your entertainer option comes with the microphones, the facility for sound support for the ceremony (often in a separate location) and lighting too – it makes all the difference.”

We can’t emphasise enough how much stress and time can be saved by booking professionals! The team at The Wedding Crashers make weddings as stress-free as possible. “Planning your wedding entertainment should be as much fun as actually being there (we believe) so we have a relaxed and fun approach to planning that side of things. We also have some great resources such as our Client Care Package – a 12-page PDF editable planning document, professional run-sheet templates, and other great resources to engage our couples and make it easy. We love to share our experience with our couples and we have TONS of tips and tricks so our couples can get the most out of their wedding.”

 

ASK QUESTIONS

When it comes to speaking to DJs or entertainment providers before booking, Dean recommends asking  as many questions as possible! “Engage with your DJ choice and challenge them to come up with a party package that suits your needs – the more you can interact with your DJ before the day, the better the rapport you’ll have with your DJ and the better they can provide a solution and party vibe that is tailored to you.”

 

Couple at sunset

 

So, why should you consider hiring The Wedding Crashers for your wedding? After nine years of experience entertaining wedding parties, these guys have come a long way – and people just love them!

 

“…Over the years of doing Kiwi weddings we’ve tightened up the show so we can anticipate the needs of our couples, deliver a great show that never fails to get your guests on their feet and onto the dance floor. The music, sound & lighting equipment and personality of our team all adds together to make an irresistible party flavour and makes an incredibly fun and memorable night. Catch it all on video now too for posterity’s sake and to share with those loved-ones you couldn’t be there in person.”

 

What are you waiting for? Head on over to their listing to find out more!

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PERFECT RUSTIC & BOHO WEDDING STYLING http://kapitiweddings.co.nz/perfect-rustic-boho-wedding-styling/ http://kapitiweddings.co.nz/perfect-rustic-boho-wedding-styling/#respond Tue, 09 Oct 2018 21:19:15 +0000 http://kapitiweddings.co.nz/?p=3046   If the words rustic, vintage and boho send goosebumps of delight across your skin when you’re planning your dream wedding day, then this one’s for you! Think of pieces sourced from all over, that give you that dreamy feeling ...Read More

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Vintage wedding decor

Photo by Sabrina Karin Photography

 

If the words rustic, vintage and boho send goosebumps of delight across your skin when you’re planning your dream wedding day, then this one’s for you! Think of pieces sourced from all over, that give you that dreamy feeling of nostalgia – and you’re thinking of Handmaid.

 

Handmaid, based in the Kāpiti Coast, is certainly a product of love – in the words of Charlotte Lee-Butler. “My husband and I got married after many adventures together and I loved creating the celebration of our family, and thus the specific idea of Handmaid was born… We have an ever-growing range of vintage and boho items to hire and we also love to design and style celebrations too.” From quirky vintage props, furniture, decor and games, to the most delicious caravan bar Sadie Swoon (complete with bar staff and services!), Handmaid really has it all. They can even offer their styling services, and have it all set up for you, spending their time meticulously planning and designing their part in your wedding.

 

We asked Charlotte to share some wise words about upcoming trends in wedding styling and decor, as well as a few of her best tips and tricks for planning your day!

 

Wedding couples with Sadie Swoon vintage caravan

Photo by Photography by Andie

 

WHAT STYLING/DECOR TRENDS DO YOU PREDICT FOR 2019?

While not a style per se, I think New Zealand will continue to see an emphasis on really personal weddings that truly reflect the couple (which we love by the way) and at venues that they feel reflect them… I think we are going to see a bigger emphasis on florals, including the use of dried flowers and we’ll start to see more floral ceremony circles instead of (or indeed with) arches and arbours. Portable bars are on the rise that can be used in or outdoors and we’ll see more of them around the place too.

 

Vintage typewriter and flowers by Handmaid

Photo by Sarah-Lee Photography

 

WHAT ARE YOUR CURRENT COLOUR PICKS/FAVOURITE COLOUR PALETTES TO WORK WITH?

For bolder couples, we’ll start seeing more fiery reds/tumerics/oranges in the wedding palette – pops in florals, napkins or going all out with these vibrant hues. However, I don’t think the more romantic blush/greens/whites are going anywhere as that’s just a great and achievable classical look for many couples.

 

Personally, I have a penchant for deep, jewel tones and if working with softer or paler colours, I have a weakness for pops of something bolder to create vibrancy. However, it really just depends on the vibe of the couple and I still love pastels and even simple, classy white and green weddings can give us goosebumps all over!

 

 

WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE PIECE IN YOUR COLLECTION?

Argh, that question is too tough… However, Sadie Swoon (our vintage caravan bar) would have to be my favourite “piece” (if you can call her that!). I think she would be utterly insulted and outraged to hear such a demeaning statement. I’m certain that she’s an ardent supporter of the #metoo movement and of the search for gender equality the world over!

Sadie is the result of soooooo much planning, thought, love, sweat and tears and was such a labour of love for us. She was not long ago a piece of crap destined for caravan heaven and yet, here she is now in all her glory – beautiful and also functional. She really does delight people near and far and somehow, wherever she goes, the party ends up based around her….not sure why!

 

Sadie Swoon vintage caravan at night

Photo by Sarah-Lee Photography

 

TOP THREE TIPS FOR COUPLES PLANNING THEIR WEDDING?

  1. When you are working with the wedding budget, make a list of all the wants and whittle it down to the non-negotiables for you both. The non-negotiables from couple to couple can be so different… At the end of the day, decide what it is that is most important to you. Obviously, it is going to be marrying your special someone, but what’s the next most important thing? For some, it’s the lasting memory and that’s why the photographer and/or videographers are so important, for others it’s showcasing New Zealand for overseas guests so the site/ceremony/venue can be really important.

    2. The day truly will go by soooo fast. Think about what will allow you to enjoy every little moment. It might be delegating to trusted friends or family, or to outsource the planning/set up/pack down or on the day coordination. If you have children, I highly recommend having someone who is in charge of your children (if you have any) and who will whisk them away to bed so you can kick up your heels unimpeded later on.

    3. I often say to my couples that the ceremony is really ALL about them. The reception then is a lot about their guests and showing them a great time, albeit filled with the couple’s personalities… Re-focus on just you and your partner (and kids, if you have any and are you’re involving them) and what you want to say to each other in front of your nearest and dearest.

 

ANYTHING ELSE YOU’D LIKE PEOPLE TO KNOW ABOUT HANDMAID?

In case it hasn’t come through already… Just that we get SUCH a kick from being involved in weddings. It’s a true privilege and one we don’t take from granted. We also take ‘giving back’ seriously at Handmaid and love that hiring is such a sustainable way to reduce waste at your wedding…. Even though we are a small business, we have never believed being small gives us an excuse not to give back in various ways – be it time or money. We provide financial support to local charities in Kapiti and also donate elsewhere to help make the world a better place.

 

And if you weren’t already in love with Handmaid after seeing their gorgeous work, Charlotte says there are more gorgeous things coming their way! “An exciting new hire edition to the collection is coming soon, which we can’t wait to share when it does! Squeeee!”

 

Keep up to date with all things Handmaid, and check out their listing.

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MATAI HUKA – YOUR COMPLETE WEDDING VENUE http://kapitiweddings.co.nz/matai-huka-complete-wedding-venue/ http://kapitiweddings.co.nz/matai-huka-complete-wedding-venue/#respond Mon, 01 Oct 2018 02:22:13 +0000 http://kapitiweddings.co.nz/?p=2979 It’s safe to say that the Kapiti Coast is simply jaw-dropping at every turn; from the wild, windswept beaches at the West to the majestic hills standing tall on the East. You’re certainly spoiled for choice when it comes to ...Read More

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Photo – Jenna Wara

It’s safe to say that the Kapiti Coast is simply jaw-dropping at every turn; from the wild, windswept beaches at the West to the majestic hills standing tall on the East. You’re certainly spoiled for choice when it comes to choosing a wedding venue – so we spoke to Shona Lincoln from Matai Huka Garden Weddings, to hear a bit more about their piece of paradise nestled amongst gorgeous, lush native bush.

So, where did it all start? Shona says that the beginnings of this spectacular venue was a desire to work from home, surrounded by the beautiful gardens on their property. “After 15 years on the road as a Pharmacy Rep, I wanted to work from home as I love to be in the garden. I thought it would be great to share what we have created here (we started with a large paddock!).”

 

Bride and father at Matai Huka

Photo – Jenna Wara

 

Matai Huka is certainly much more than a large paddock now! Its expansive property covers an incredible eight acres of drop-dead gorgeous scenery, which is perfect for weddings. “We have endless photo opportunities on the property, from an old Fergie tractor to a rockery with old wagon wheels, and a backdrop of native bush, lakes and gardens!” – what more could you want!

 

What’s more, Matai Huka offers a complete wedding package, which covers everything from the venue, marquee, and flowers, to the photographer, food and beverages. “We take care of everything,” says Shona, “you just arrive on the day!”. One of Shona’s favourite parts of her job is meeting with all the wonderful couples, and personalising their weddings to make each and every one special and unique to them.

 

Matai Huka Gardens ceremony area

 

Looking for a venue? We are so lucky to have so many beautiful spots around the Kapiti Coast, and it can be an overwhelming decision to make. But Shona sums it up perfectly – “Pick exactly what feels right for you”.

 

Find out more about Matai Huka Garden Weddings here.

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STRESS-FREE WEDDING PLANNING http://kapitiweddings.co.nz/stress-free-wedding-planning/ http://kapitiweddings.co.nz/stress-free-wedding-planning/#respond Mon, 03 Sep 2018 22:14:57 +0000 http://kapitiweddings.co.nz/?p=2990   We all try to have a good work-life balance, but when it comes to planning a wedding, the multitude of tasks can be overwhelming. From researching, contacting, planning and booking each vendor, to running around picking up all the ...Read More

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Wedding table decor

Photos by Jenny Siaosi

 

We all try to have a good work-life balance, but when it comes to planning a wedding, the multitude of tasks can be overwhelming. From researching, contacting, planning and booking each vendor, to running around picking up all the supplies on the actual day – coffee becomes like life support!

Heather Knewstubb knows exactly how much stress the planning and organising of a wedding can put on a couple – so she set up Time Genie, a personal concierge business based on the Kāpiti Coast. They take care of the tasks that you don’t have time to do (or that you dislike doing!) We decided to pick her brain about her new business, and how it can help couples with their stress-free wedding. 

 

WHY SHOULD COUPLES HIRE TIME GENIE TO HELP OUT WITH ORGANISING THEIR WEDDING?

There are a myriad of tasks that need doing in the lead up to a wedding and on the day itself. If you are getting married in Kapiti but are working full time (especially if you and your partner commute into Wellington), Time Genie can project manage some of these on your behalf, allowing you to concentrate on the fun things! For example, this might include researching catering companies or photographers, hiring glasses/tables etc or, on the day jobs such as collecting flowers or the cake, setting out seating – whatever. Time Genie aims to provide a seamless service so that you don’t have to worry.

 

Wedding sliders

 

HOW DID YOU GET INVOLVED IN WEDDINGS?

After seeing how stressed my daughter-in-law was in the lead up to her wedding (which was complicated by being in Scotland), I realised she needed assistance. The main help I was able to do was to put together the wedding favours for 75 people two days prior. Seeing how much she had already done herself despite working full time, I felt a service that helped busy brides (and grooms) would be helpful.

 

Wedding floral details

 

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB?

The variety – as weddings are only one service we offer, no day is the same.

 

WHAT ARE YOUR TOP THREE TIPS FOR COUPLES BEGINNING TO PLAN THEIR WEDDING?

  1. Make a timeline list of things that need to be done, preferably up to 12 months prior, right up to the day. 
  2. Make a decision early on how many guests you will invite as this impacts on most other decisions
  3. Have a plan B if you are intending to have an outdoor wedding. NZ weather can be very fickle – even in the height of summer.

 

Wedding table seating plan

 

Want to know more about Time Genie? Check out their listing and see how they can magic up more time for you!

 

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DREAMING OF SUMMER WEDDINGS http://kapitiweddings.co.nz/dreaming-summer-weddings/ http://kapitiweddings.co.nz/dreaming-summer-weddings/#respond Wed, 22 Aug 2018 22:40:04 +0000 http://kapitiweddings.co.nz/?p=2883   Escape the chilly August weather, and dream over this gorgeous summer wedding at Anam Cara – one of the newest venues on the Kāpiti Coast. This place is an oasis – modern, lush gardens and just a short drive ...Read More

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Photos by Jo Moore Photographer

 

Escape the chilly August weather, and dream over this gorgeous summer wedding at Anam Cara – one of the newest venues on the Kāpiti Coast. This place is an oasis – modern, lush gardens and just a short drive from the beach.

What more could you want? Get excited for summer weddings filled with stunning outdoor ceremonies, the warm beach breeze, and near-tropical sunsets!

We spoke to Jo Moore Photographer, who was lucky enough to photograph the wedding of Teresa and Tim at Anam Cara Gardens in Ōtaki earlier this year – and not only were these two absolutely gorgeous, but they are the new owners of this amazing venue! Here’s what she had to say:

The property is absolutely gorgeous with so many different gardens – each one a little different to the next. There are beautiful native trees, flowers galore and lush green lawns. Ōtaki in summer can get pretty hot, so having a venue that has lots of shade is perfect.

Teresa and Tim were married in the Laneway – a gorgeous alley of tall green trees which is lovely and cool during a hot day! It is one of my favourite spots on the whole property. One of the things I really loved about this wedding was the drinks on the lawn after the ceremony . This area is such a great space – they had a bouncy castle set up for the kids, croquet and games on the lawn, table tennis under the trees and a musican playing guitar adding to the atmosphere. It was fun, elegant and relaxed all at the same time. I love photographing candid moments so capturing the guests chatting and laughing in this beautiful environment was amazing for me.

Tim and Teresa are an incredibly sweet couple and I loved being part of their day. I was treated as an old friend  and welcomed by their friends and family.

Take a look through some of Jo’s gorgeous photos, and see what’s in store for summer at Anam Cara.

 

Stack of Wedding Rings Detail shot of bouquet with roses Wedding dress button details Anam Cara Ceremony Lawn Close up of Cufflinks Groom and groomsmen Piano player Bride and father walking down the aisle Sliders at Anam Cara Table details at Anam Cara Bride and Groom at Anam Cara Bride and Groom at sunset on Kapiti beach Anam Cara at sunset

 

Some of the awesome people who helped make it all happen:

Caterers: Nosh
Flowers and Cake: Sara Grigg (Groom’s sister).
Make up: Goddess Make Up Design

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WEDDING TABLE STYLING TIPS http://kapitiweddings.co.nz/wedding-table-styling/ http://kapitiweddings.co.nz/wedding-table-styling/#respond Wed, 15 Aug 2018 04:55:52 +0000 http://kapitiweddings.co.nz/?p=2835 Not sure where to start with wedding table styling? With a massive thanks to Summer from The Vintage Party for sharing her expertise, and this stunning styled shoot she organised, here are a few thoughts to guide & inspire you. ...Read More

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Not sure where to start with wedding table styling?
Styled Shoot by Jenny Siaosi Photography. For the Vintage Party.

Siaosi Photography

With a massive thanks to Summer from The Vintage Party for sharing her expertise, and this stunning styled shoot she organised, here are a few thoughts to guide & inspire you. Let’s get into it!

 

1. TABLE SURROUNDINGS

The first thing you’ll want to decide is the mood or feel of your table. Take your cue from the surroundings. Whether it’s going to be a garden setting, church hall, industrial space or formal dining lounge, the style of the table should sit comfortably within the setting.

 

Siaosi Photography

 

2. KEY ELEMENTS

Decide your key elements – is there something bright, bold or just plain unusual that you want to stand out on your tables as a talking point? Maybe you have shiny gold charger plates or bold florals, or something that you’ve sourced or made specifically that you want to be in the limelight.

Let this element determine your colour palette. Try to keep the remaining elements understated – they’ll play a supporting role and should blend in, quietly aligning with your key pieces in terms of their colour and tone.

The aim is to make your table easy on the eyes by avoiding having elements that compete for visual attention

 

3. BASIC SYMMETRY

Symmetry is a major factor in table styling. The level to which you take the symmetry will be determined by how formal you want the end result to be.

For a more relaxed table, relax the symmetry. At the very least though, there should be (at least two) evenly spaced ‘anchor’ points to create order, guide the eyes and promote a sense of visual calm, rather than chaos.

It’s also important not to over-crowd the table – remember to leave some good old visual space here and there – sometimes less will be more.

 

Styled Shoot by Jenny Siaosi Photography. For the Vintage Party.

Siaosi Photography

 

4. CREATE BALANCE WITH INTEREST

Once you have your key feature and colour palette sorted, it’s a matter of balancing the rest of the supporting elements.  They will all have a certain colour, shape, height, texture and finish. Pay close attention to these and mix them up to create subtle contrasts and make it visually interesting.

For example, loosely-tied linen napkins bring a contrasting softness to the hard plate surfaces. Naturally-formed details (such as florals, sea shells, driftwood etc) all bring their own organic texture and ease that offsets the more rigid surfaces and lines of cutlery, metal and glassware.

Candlesticks are brilliant for drawing the eye up and away from the table surface itself, effectively framing the mid-level elements.

 

5. EXPERIMENT

Have fun and think outside the box in terms of things that you can use to decorate your tables.

Experiment, and trust your eyes. Sometimes the things you think will look perfect just don’t work – if this happens, go back to your key elements and build from there.

And when it all gets too confusing, step away, do something else and come back with a fresh outlook!

 

 

Massive thanks to the following…

Styling, props and tableware: The Vintage Party (Summer)

Photography: Siaosi Photography (Jenny)

Jumpsuit:  Leave her Wilder (Greer)

Earrings: Along Came Wolfe (Chloe)

Hair: Dye Pretty Hair Styling  (Emma)

Makeup: Vanessa Sutton   (Vanessa)

Calligraphy: Forage and Spruce (Christine)

Ribbons: Feather and Stone (Sony)

Florals: Rose Road Botanicals (Rhiannon)

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WINTER WEDDING – COLOUR CRUSH http://kapitiweddings.co.nz/colour-crush-winter-wedding/ http://kapitiweddings.co.nz/colour-crush-winter-wedding/#respond Wed, 01 Aug 2018 03:56:53 +0000 http://kapitiweddings.co.nz/?p=2840     Moody, surreal skies and a perfectly dramatic sea breeze – these images by Patina Photography capture everything there is to love about a Winter Wedding in New Zealand, captured in Whanganui. As we move into the cooler, more ...Read More

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Bride and Groom on beach in Whanganui

Photos by Patina Photography

 

Moody, surreal skies and a perfectly dramatic sea breeze – these images by Patina Photography capture everything there is to love about a Winter Wedding in New Zealand, captured in Whanganui.

As we move into the cooler, more windswept months, it’s easy to become disheartened by the change in seasons, especially when you’re planning your big day. But, lucky for us, New Zealand’s landscapes make the most of the elements – and Kapiti’s rugged, dramatic and sweeping beaches are the perfect example. If you’re willing to get a wee bit adventurous and brace the cool breeze (or rather, gale force winds), you can end up with some absolutely gorgeous results. They don’t call Aotearoa the Land of the Long White Cloud for nothing – and how could you not fall in love with those wild, tumultuous skies? It absolutely makes for the perfect backdrop for your creative photos.

Why not take it a step further, let your wedding be inspired by these rich, romantic tones? What better way to create a cohesive, coordinated colour scheme than to be directly influenced by your natural backdrops and photo locations! We are in love with the rich, dark tones captured in these images, from the inky blues and deep blacks, to the slightly warm peaches and browns. Simple, beautiful and passionate – well, the photos speak for themselves!

Pops of colour lend themselves perfectly to this colour set, so consider starting with these more neutral tones in your décor, and offsetting them up with striking bright colours. These could be brought through in your bouquet, floral arrangements and table settings. Embrace the elements, and make them a part of your day – your wedding album will thank you for it.

So be inspired, or create your own colour palette based on your venue or photo spots!

 

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