Wedding Planning

Most couples give themselves around twelve months. Popular venues and photographers, especially over the summer and autumn months, are often booked a year or more ahead, so securing the date, venue and key suppliers early gives you the widest choice. Shorter timelines are very doable for smaller or mid-week weddings.

The date and venue come first, because everything else works around them. Next are the suppliers that only take one booking per day: your celebrant, photographer, caterer and, if you are having one, the marquee. Once those are locked in you can move on to styling, flowers, cake and the finer details.

Absolutely, and many New Zealand couples do. Ceremony backdrops, table centrepieces, signage, favours and balloon installations are all popular DIY projects that add a personal touch and save money. Our tutorials walk you through each one, and you can still hire professionals for catering and photography.

To be legally married in New Zealand you need a marriage licence from Births, Deaths & Marriages, and the ceremony must be performed by a marriage celebrant recognised by the Registrar-General. Apply for the licence in the weeks before the wedding (it is valid for a set period), and book your celebrant early as the popular ones fill up fast.

Open any supplier profile in our directory and use the “Request a Quote” form to send them your event date, guest numbers and what you need. Your enquiry goes straight to the business so they can reply with pricing and availability. It is free to enquire, and you can shortlist your favourites to compare later.