A homestead with heart: Ilam Homestead

We have a secret to share with you; it’s a gem of a venue – Ilam Homestead. Tucked away at 87 Ilam Road, it’s a venue with sweeping lawns to the river, stunning rhododendron gardens to walk through, and old-style charm from the early 1900s. There’s room for every type of function: cocktails for 20-30 […]

People, places, photos

Freeze in time one of the best days of your life, all with a fabulous photographer. To remember the people, the places, and the intimate moments that you shared throughout your day. Capturing their memories, many just-married Cantabrians have called on the expertise of local photographers to forever remember their weddings. Between the planned shots […]

Editor’s note: Happily ever after

Twice a year, Metropol publishes its popular wedding supplement, featuring many of the local retailers who support this lucrative industry. Bringing bridal parties and wedding suppliers together is a marriage made in heaven for many parties. Ten years ago, the wedding industry in New Zealand was estimated to be worth $58 million annually. Now, a […]

Gowns as unique as you: Brides of Merivale

When asked what sets ‘Brides of Merivale’ apart from other bridal stores, the dedicated team say, “We’re a one-stop bridal destination, offering leading bridal labels, accessories (including veils and jewellery), and a full in-house made-to-measure and alteration service of our own gowns”. Team members feel incredibly proud to guide each bride through the entire process, […]

Where privacy meets beauty: Mt Vernon Lodge

Are you on the lookout for the perfect venue for your wedding? Perhaps you’re looking for a conference space, or a location for a family gathering. Astunning backdrop, quaint boutique accommodation, and a space big enough for whatever activities your heart may desire is on offer at Mt Vernon Lodge in the hills of Akaroa. […]

Dance the night away: Encore Entertainment

Several talented local musicians have united to create two cover bands, offering more than the typical pub classics. Having studied and taught music, and entertained the Ōtautahi music scene, these talented musicians bring their music to special events. Each event is unique, and Encore Entertainment works with the client to customise the entertainment to suit […]

A special intimate setting: Rose Historic Chapel

Secluded central city rose gardens, and a beautiful circular stained glass window, sets the scene for small intimate weddings at one of Christchurch’s beloved historic gems. A picturesque Victorian stone building with high ceilings and a treasure-trove of stained glass windows creates a stunning setting hard to beat; a picture-perfect backdrop for special wedding memories […]

Good times brewing: Wigram Brewing Co

A party in a brewery with a brewery tour, craft beer tastings and pub-grub style food – that sounds like a dream come true for a groom and his friends for a pre-wedding shindig or a bridal party looking to make memories. There is such a place in Wigram – Hangar 57, the social space […]

Where it all began: Amuri Estate

Ask any couple to name their most precious life memories and often the wedding day comes first. The recalling of weather, food, and guest list may vary slightly, but the venue is clearly remembered as the place where married life began. A mere 10 minutes’ drive from Hanmer Springs is the glorious Amuri Estate. Panoramic […]

Personalised catering: G&T Catering

A couple’s foodie personality is the top ingredient when planning their wedding feast. If they usually party around the barbeque, a seated dinner may feel too formal, whereas fine diners will relish the traditional elegance. G&T Catering is the beautiful Larcomb Vineyard’s sole caterer and matchmaker of wedding menus to personal tastes. They also cater […]