6 easy steps to choosing a wedding venue in Aotearoa NZ

6 easy steps to choosing a wedding venue in Aotearoa NZ

By Sarah from Lucalia Photography

Congratulations you're engaged! How exciting! And now the planning begins. Some people absolutely love every aspect of planning their wedding. Others get surprised by the emotion involved in every decision. Whilst more become overwhelmed by so much choice.

But I'm here to help! I absolutely love weddings that are meaningful to the couple and are a true manifestation of who they are.

Here’s an easy 6 step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process and choose your perfect wedding venue in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Whether you want a micro-elopement on a mountaintop; or every third cousin and their new boyfriends in a marquee, these 6 easy steps will help you plan.

Step 1: Set your budget

Let's get to boring stuff out of the way first. The first step in choosing your wedding venue is setting a realistic budget for your whole wedding. Take into account:

• Do you have cash already?

• Will you take time to save for your wedding? How long are you willing to/can you wait?

• Will you be lucky enough to be gifted money by family?

Step 2: How many guests?

How many guests will you invite, if any at all? Ensure the venue can comfortably accommodate everyone. Similarly you don't want the venue to be so big that you are rattling around inside.

Marquees come in a range of sizes to suit different size groups. There are some really beautiful designs available: think Hamptons tent style, luxurious glamping or sleek with completely clear walls and roofs.

Step 3: Significance and meaning

Is there a location or venue that has special significance to you as a couple? Have you considered your backyard or a family property? The beach you holidayed at as a kid. The town you got engaged near. The forest you walk your dog in. Where your favourite wine is made. Hobbiton because you love reading LOTR to each other. Be inspired by your life as a couple.

Step 4: Establish your style

What vibe would you like for you and the people you choose to celebrate with? This will give you some guidance on what venue to look for. Some ideas could be:

• Backyard house party

• Classy garden soiree

• Black tie ballroom

• Picnic with hay bales

• Rustic barn

• Forest with fairy lights

• Summertime vineyard

• Masquerade marquee

• Beer hall brews

• Boating on the lake

• Secluded bays

• Snow bunny chic

Step 5: Consider Logistics

Season and Date When would you like to be married? Is there a date that has significance for you like your anniversary? Would you like a year or more to save and plan? What season would you like to have your wedding? Summer is the traditional choice in New Zealand, but have you thought of a snow wedding, an Autumnal botanical garden wedding or with spring blossoms? Consider indoor versus outdoor. If you are planning an outdoor wedding, please PLEASE have an indoor back up venue in case of rain or wind. Or be genuinely prepared to get wet or blown away. That's part of the fun right?

Catering, food and drink Some venues have in-house catering, while others allow outside vendors and DIY. Clarify these details early on.

Accommodation If you have out-of-town guests or for yourselves getting ready and on your wedding night, check if the venue offers accommodation or has a range nearby. Camping could be fun with your besties but maybe not for Grandma.

Step 6: Visit venues

Once you have a shortlist, schedule visits to see the venues in person. Even if it's your own backyard. If you have decided on a marquee wedding, visit the hire company with the same questions. Put your special day hat on and pay attention to:

• Accessibility: Ensure the venue is easily accessible for everyone as required

• Ambiance: Walk through the space and envision your wedding day. Does it align with your vision?

• What is included in the rental fee?

• What are the deposit and payment terms?

• Are there any restrictions (eg: noise levels, decoration limitations, time limits)?

• What is the policy for cancellations or changes?

• Ask for reviews and seek recommendations from past couples

After following my 6 easy steps to choosing a wedding venue in NZ you should have a clear winner! Trust your instincts to choose a wedding venue that truly speaks to you both. And above all, enjoy your wedding.

I'm Sarah from Lucalia Photography. I provide outdoorsy couples who hate awkward poses with documentary wedding photography in Marlborough, Nelson and Tasman regions of Aotearoa New Zealand.

If you like my style, please feel free to check out more of my documentary wedding photography.

Lots of love,

Sarah xx