So you've decided to take the plunge and are full of anticipation and excitement at now organising your "big" day! This can be lots of fun but can also become very stressful. What theme should you go for? How much should you spend? Do you want to get married on the beach or in the hall? Which dress will you choose!
Luckily here on the Hibiscus Coast there are plenty of locals who can help you out and here's some links to them.
If you visit our local business directory Wedding Section here you'll find links to everything from Beauty and Nail Services, Florists, Caterers, Jewellers, Venues and lots more.
If you feel the need to improve your fitness or lose those few extra kilos before the big day you'll find help at either Northern Arena or Stanmore Bay Pool and Leisure Centre.
In your planning you might want to keep budget tips in mind and your season to wed can be influential on those costs and if you're thinking Winter there's some great winter theme ideas you can use.
You'll want to make sure you get the wedding dress right and of course you need the perfect shoes too.
If you're not only taking the big leap into being married but also looking for a home to share together you'll need a good agent and one local who knows the Coast well is Tim Hansen and to ensure you have maximum spend you may wish to consult with a local mortgage broker. We have lots here on the Coast including First Rate Mortgages and iLender or if you may struggle to provide documentation or self-employed another place to turn is NonBk Ltd.
As you get closer to the day you should ensure you have taken all bouquet, corsages, buttonholes and other flower requirements into consideration - check our Wedding Flower Checklist to make sure you're not missing anything!
Naturally, on your special day you'll want to look your best and sometimes you need to start on that skincare routine and hair care earlier than the week before. Make sure ladies, your skin is looking its best with treatments from Queens Beauty and you may just want to treat yourself to those beautiful brows, which have a big impact on your overall appearance, or even beautiful and natural cosmetic lip blush or eyeliner.
As a keepsake you'll be able to treasure forever why not go together and you can seal your love with a fineline tattoo from Aliyeh.
When organizing your flowers note there are a number times you can use flowers, some often forgotten, and remember to keep in mind any theme you would like running through the day. Keep in mind the season and particular favourites you’d like to include. Your florist will always be happy to advise.
Flowers can be a major expense in your wedding budget so talk to your florist, make sure they understand your requirements and wishes and make sure they know your budget so you can work together for the best results!
Nowadays with wedding costs escalating many couples wonder how they can host a wedding that will live on in memory, not through bills. It's no wonder that people get tense when they start to think about coordinating a wedding. But it doesn’t have to be this way. There is no need to spend lots of money on a wedding, the most important thing is to make it personal.
Whether your budget is $3000 or $30,000, here are a few tips to help you get the most for your money:
Before beginning to plan your wedding and reception, sit down together and discuss what your top 5 priorities are to determine where to go all out and where to cut corners. For instance, if it is important to you the wedding and reception are held at a particular venue or you know you MUST have a specific designer gown, then fit that into your budget and save money in other areas.
Keeping the guest list as concise as possible can help to drastically reduce reception costs. Most caterers, restaurants and banquet halls charge per person.
Food can be the biggest expense. A buffet or lunch can be a more cost-effective choice. Drop-off catering, where the caterer delivers already prepared food and sets it up, is another option, or catering all or part of the reception yourself is another possibility.
There are many options for low-cost or no-cost locations including parks or your own or a friends garden. Also consider a location that offers an all-inclusive package on the wedding, reception, and sometimes the honeymoon too. Choosing to have the wedding during an off-season or on any day but Saturday will also help to cut costs.
A few creative money-saving alternatives to shopping at a traditional bridal salon include purchasing a second-hand gown, checking out specials, renting a gown or wearing a designer suit. See some tips from Beautiful Brides.
Find out if arrangements are already provided at your chosen location. Perhaps plan the wedding in a garden, art museum or a beautifully furnished home. Or consider doing the flowers and decorations yourself.
This is definitely an area where do-it-yourselves can show off their skills and pocket the difference in costs. Print off your own computer or use your local photocopy service who can produce fantastic results on stylish paper at very good rates.
For some a band is an absolute must, for others a DJ, which is usually much less expensive. For the die-hard live band or music folk, look for bands that have day jobs and/or high school -aged bands. A rock-bottom budget option is to make your own musical favourite CDs.
Weddings tend to go by so quickly, and each moment is so precious, that having a photographer chronicle the event with a still and/or video camera is the only way to really capture the moment for posterity. But can photography be affordable. Check out what is available and what you are actually given at the end of the day.
Eliminating or limiting a traditional full bar to one or two hours will really cut costs. Alternatives include serving beer and wine only, not serving alcohol at all or only pouring a champagne toast. Check on your venue, you may be able to provide the alcohol yourself.
Having a winter wedding is a great excuse for some wonderful themes for your special day. Here are a few suggestions.
Everyone enjoys a mid-year Christmas celebration! Having a wedding in late June or in July is the perfect time to merge these two fantastic celebrations together.
If you’re thinking about a Christmas wedding theme, reds and greens are of course the festive colours of choice. You could of course wear a spectacular ruby wedding dress but if that is too bold for you why not add a deep red into your accessories, your jewellery, shoes or wear a lovely red cape. Introduce the same colour into the grooms cumberbands, waistcoats or in the bouquet and buttonholes.
Add some finishing touches to your Christmas wedding by adding bright, colourful wreaths around the venue, use them for table centre decorations and place them on doors.
Table centrepieces can look wonderful with pillar candles also adding to that Christmas warmth feel.
Surprise your guests and recreate Christmas morning with mini gifts wrapped up on the tables.
Why not introduce the red and green colours into your crockery, elegant red square plates with crystal champagne glasses oozes style!
Plus of course don't forget glitter, glitter and more glitter bringing that subtle sparkle to everything you touch!
Metallic Touches
Having a winter wedding means you can be bold and creative. Metallic shades can give a rich and glamorous look.
Dress your bridesmaids in glittering gold and silver dresses with matching shoes. Match the cumberbands of the men. Add subtle embellishments to your wedding outfit and match your shoes.
Spray your bouquet and table pieces in gold and silver spray and use winter items such as cones.
Introduce shades of copper, gold and silver candles, boubles, dishes and decorations.
Scatter your tables with brightly coloured metallic wrapped chocolate hearts.
Top it all off with a spectacular gold or silver wedding cake or bring your bridal look together with copper and gold accessories.
Elegant and chic, a classic styled all white theme portrays a snowy and winter feel. Bring in the snow feel with crytals, silver glitter, fake diamantes, snowflake mats.
Lillies and orchids sprinkled with glitter and hanging christmas boubles.
Place a white rose on each ladies table placing. If you want to bring in some colour try blues and cool pastel colours.
Use wide ribbons covered in both snowflake designs and sparkles. Tall white pillar candles give that warm glow. Use small white organza bags for wedding favours.
Get small tealight glasses and cover with white frost glitter. Fill bowls with clear stones. Hang strings of crystal beads from flower arrangements, ceiling lights giving the effect of melting icicles.
Have your cake dusted with a shimmering white powder.
Black and white can be stunningly classic and elegant. Plus of course can look amazing in black and white photographs of the event!
Glamour and sparkle can be added to each element. Contrast a black table cloth with white chair covers and white table centre decorations.
Dressing can be simple for the groom in an elegant black tuxedo with your clean, sharp white look. However introduce subtle touches of black either in your dress, shoes or accessories to match.
Spray decorations black, white and gold and silver.
Add white centrepieces with subtle black twigs or sprayed foliage.
Tie your bouquet with thick satin black ribbon. Use black and white striped ribbon as your church aisle ends tied in large bows.
Print your invites on black card and write in a silver or gold pen
Wear elegant black jewellery to contrast with your white wedding dress.
Add diamantes to compliment various items.
Winter weddings can be just as much fun as summer weddings so get excited, let that imagination run wild and create a day both you and all your guests will remember forever!
Off-season rates can be a factor for many couples choosing a winter wedding, however, there are lots other great reasons to have your big day during the winter months. Read on to find out more…
Every winter bride imagines the white drifts of snow across the scene. Whilst you will need to pick your particular location in New Zealand to guarantee real snow you can always theme your venues to give you that wonderful white winter feel!
One of your biggest considerations. Most venues and suppliers have off season rates, but many also offer incentives and bonuses not available in the popular summer months.
Welcome your guests with a roaring open fire. Feel the glow and reflect after the event with a hot toddy warm in the comfort of your new husband’s warm embrace!
In winter of course dusk falls early. This gives you an extended evening for winter warming celebrations. Take advantage by using candles, fairy lights, fireworks and fancy lighting designs. Experiment and have fun creating atmosphere and excitement to your long evening.
The New Zealand winter has few memorable dates during the winter months, so add your own for a great excuse for a winter holiday or at least a special celebration every year!
If you have a wide group of friends some of your guests may have ‘wedding fatigue’ by the time your summer wedding comes around. A winter wedding will be a seasonal highlight.
Fly somewhere warm and exotic after the event. Relax on the beach in the Maldives, Fiji, Samoa or Northern Queensland. You’ll enjoy the beautiful weather all the more coming in winter and it gives you a good excuse each winter to celebrate away in the sun!
Getting married in winter totally eliminates any weather related stress. You don’t have that worry what to do if it rains. Guests expect colder weather and an indoor focus, so the attention will be on what’s going on indoors.
Winter is low season, meaning it shouldn’t be too difficult booking your venue, church/celebrant and other services at slightly shorter notice. It’s also easier finding accommodation for visiting guests.
Last, but surely not least, a winter wedding is your chance to sport some stylish bridal wellies, ideal for a kiwi bride, or a beautiful fake fur or a soft velvet cape.
During the week you might be stuck in a uniform or an office dress code, but at the weekend you can let your inner fashionista free. However, a wedding is not the place to debut those $200 ripped jeans as your latest “investment piece.” But you knew that already, didn’t you?
Some wedding fashion rules are obvious (no, a bikini will always be a no no, even at a beach wedding), other rules may be a little murkier. Maybe your dress is a little short, or perhaps you accidentally matched the bridesmaids colours. There are many ways to turn into a wedding-day eyesore, but you don’t have to be that guest. Follow this list of 10 things you should never wear to a wedding, and you’ll keep getting invited.
Now, let’s start with a controversial topic: Can you wear black to a wedding?
Yes, tuxedos are black, and yes, you’ll see plenty of dark suits at a wedding. But historically, black has been a bit of a fashion faux pas for women. It’s the universal colour of mourning, and unless you're sad to still be single, it's best to pick something alternative.
That being said, rules change. A chic black cocktail dress or an elegant gown? Totally fine for an evening event. But if your dress looks more “funeral” than “festive,” swap it for something with a little more joyful.
Weddings are romantic, and you might be hoping to catch the eye of that cute groomsman, but you’re not at a nightclub. If your dress has people wondering , it’s best to rethink your choice.
A little leg? Not a problem. A low neckline? Fine to a degree. But be aware.
We don’t care how “casual” the wedding is—jeans and a T-shirt are not appropriate. Even if the wedding is in a backyard or local hospo venue you really must put in some effort.
A sundress, dress pants, or at least a nice button-down top or dress? Much more appropriate.
Unless the dress code says "black tie," wearing a tux is overkill. The only guy who should be seen in a full penguin suit is the groom (and maybe his groomsmen).
If you’re overdressed, the groom probably won’t be as upset as an upstaged bride but don’t look like you are trying to outshine the man of the hour. A well-tailored suit will be just fine.
You may love that good vintage look, but some outfits should stay in the past, at least when you go to a wedding unless theme appropriate. However, a classic 1960s pencil skirt is fine but a pair of bellbottoms? Perhaps not.
Weddings are about timeless romance, not time-travelled fashion. So, unless the invitation actually says "70s Disco Theme", leave it for this occasion.
You’d think this wouldn’t need to be said, but here we are. Under no circumstances should you wear a tiara to a wedding unless you are the bride, or five years old.
This rule also extends to any other inappropriate headwear such as crowns, decorative headbands or anything else that may give you that regal look! The only person getting the royal treatment should be the bride.
Unless this wedding is at a palace, or ballgowns have been requested you do not need to look like Cinderella.
Formal weddings call for elegant attire, but be wary of the fine line between looking great and being mistaken for the bride! If a ballgown is appropriate avoid white, champagne, or blush and pick something less bridal.
You’re at a wedding, not a corporate meeting. Whilst pantsuits can be chic, and if you feel your best in trousers, go for it but just make sure your look says “fashionable wedding guest” and not “ready to close that deal.” A stylish jumpsuit or flowy wide-leg pants will look sophisticated without looking like you’re striding down the halls of power.
Neon colors, head to toe sequins, a hat whose brim could be used to serve the banquet. All would be a no, no! if your clothing makes more of a statement than the wedding couple just don’t do it!
Weddings are, of course, a great excuse to dress up, but it’s not a one-woman fashion show. If your look is overly eye-catching, tone it down.
And of course, the golden rule of wedding fashion: Never wear white.
Unless the bride has explicitly requested an all-white dress code (highly unlikely), avoid anything that could look like a wedding dress.
If white is your go to colour, perhaps another shade, an ivory, cream or champagne. But also check as not all brides where pure white. If you can try to avoid the dilemma altogether!
Weddings are about celebrating love, not turning heads in your direction, unless you are the bride. If you stick to these basic rules you’ll ensure all eyes focus where they should on the happy couple. Plus, you’ll keep getting invites instead of wondering what you did so wrong (unless you already know!)
You’ve got the dress – now you need the shoes! Here are six tips to help you in your selection.
Do not select your shoes before you have decided on a dress. It is always easier to match shoes to a dress. Having the dress first allows you to find shoes that complement your dress.
It may seem obvious but find comfortable shoes! If you have a long dress, the shoes don't show so you can wear a shoe that is more comfortable. If you are wearing a shorter dress, your shoes will be of greater importance. You don’t want to be focussing on your sore feet by half way through your big day!
If your budget allows don’t restrict yourself to just one pair for the day. One for the wedding ceremony and photos, one for the reception and dancing. Those heels may look good in the photos but are they practical for that first dance as you are swept around the floor!
Wedges and flats are best for receptions in the country to save yourself from muddy heels. Flat sandals are best for beach weddings and certain older venues. It seems obvious but if you are marching across a sandy beach stilettos will not work but you need to remember that before the day!
Break your shoes in. Wear the shoes around the house or practice dancing in them. Whatever you do, your wedding day should not be the first day you wear the shoes. You want to glide up the aisle, not stagger with a sway!
Pick a heel height that is comfortable for you. All eyes will be on you and there is nothing worse than not feeling confident in the shoes you are in. Also, consider the heel height for standing next to the groom. If you are tall, you don't want a three inch heel if you will tower over the groom.
It is always helpful to have some ideas before you head out to buy your dress. Here are some tips to get you started –
It is important to know your limits. Getting married can be very expensive regardless of who is paying and it is important to stick to your budget wherever you can! Try not to look at dresses out of your price range, unless you can’t find anything to suit within that range. Remember if you change your dress budget this may well impact on everything else!
Flick through magazines and have an idea of the style of dress you're looking for – do you want to appear romantic, classic, elegant or glamorous. Take into account the whole style and feel you want for your day. Also consider your venue and time of year.
Head out with a friend or your mother. It’s best to take only one person as too many opinions can be as bad as none at all if they all want their input! Remember though to remind them that it is your choice and not their dress and ensure they have a very clear understanding about your goal and your bridal style and budget.
It's also worth asking the designer or retailer for advice both on how the style suits, good styles for your body type and size, on cleaning the fabric in case of small spillages on the day!
If you want to wear your hair up with flowers, try a simple style with the dress to get the feel. If you would like to wear a veil, again try one on with the dress, try different lengths and styles unless you have a very specific style or length in mind in which case you will need to ensure the dress matches!
While you don't have to show your bridesmaids your dress before their own dresses are chosen, make sure their gowns tie in with the theme and colours of your wedding as a whole.
Be prepared to try on a range of dress styles. It’s surprising how often you may find a style you think won't suit you actually looks great.
Don't be rushed into any decisions. If you think you've found 'the one', go away and think about it. Consider the dress within the whole concept of your wedding plans before making your mind up. Get others opinions but at the end of the day the decision is yours so think things through.
When you've found the perfect dress, don't try on any more! Seriously don’t start confusing things but do make sure you are absolutely sure! You can then arrange fittings and shopping for underwear, shoes and any other accessories. Follow your instincts.
Summer often brings visions of effortless beach waves, sun-kissed highlights, and flowing locks, but the reality is usually brittle, damaged, and lackluster hair.
If asked to describe your dream summer hair, most of us would envision natural highlights, a quick and easy routine, or long, beachy tresses. While these images are often seen in magazines, the harsh effects of sun, saltwater, chlorine, and humidity can leave us with dry, lifeless hair, split ends, and dullness—making that ideal summer hair feel out of reach. But with the right tools and care, you can keep your hair healthy and beautiful all season long.
Prevention is key, but knowing how to repair damage is just as important. Much like a friend who tells you the truth, moisturizing, replenishing, and protecting from heat are essential for keeping your hair in top shape.
The sun is one of your hair’s worst enemies in summer, with harmful UVA and UVB rays constantly attacking unprotected strands. The most effective way to protect your hair from sun damage is with heat protection. Solar protection creams for hair are available, and they can help you maintain that healthy shine.
If salon products aren’t your thing, you can make your own nourishing treatments at home. Here are four tried-and-tested deep conditioning recipes:
After each treatment, shampoo and condition as usual.
For those struggling with dullness or lack of shine, try these simple homemade methods to bring back the luster:
In addition to salon treatments, traditional tips and DIY remedies, here are some quick and easy ways to protect your hair this summer:
Summer is all about relaxation and enjoyment, so the last thing you want to worry about is your hair. Try these simple tips and techniques to keep your locks healthy and gorgeous all season long—no more bad hair days!
Though eyebrows may seem like a small detail, they make a big impact on your overall appearance. Defined, well-shaped brows can enhance facial symmetry, frame the eyes, and give a polished, balanced look. Recently, eyebrow trends have boomed, showcasing everything from natural, bushy brows to bold, structured arches. So, why focus on defining your eyebrows, and what difference does it make in your beauty routine? Let’s explore the transformative power of well-groomed brows.
Eyebrows play a primary role in framing the face, creating a visual structure that highlights key features like the eyes, nose, and lips. Well-groomed brows emphasize your natural contours, giving a more harmonious look. Many makeup artists view brows as the “anchor” of a look, subtly guiding how the rest of your features are perceived.
Tip: A defined arch can add structure to a round face, while a straighter brow can soften an angular one.
The eyes are often the face’s focal point, and defined brows bring attention to them. Whether going for a bold, glamorous style or a more natural vibe, defined brows enhance your eyes' shape and brightness. Shaped brows create a lifting effect, making eyes appear larger and more open.
Tip: For an instant lift, focus on defining the brow arch. Filling in sparse areas also helps your eyes look more awake, even on minimal makeup days.
Symmetry is a cornerstone of perceived beauty, and eyebrows are key to achieving balance in facial proportions. Since brows are naturally uneven, defining them allows you to create the illusion of symmetry. Even subtle adjustments can give a more balanced look.
Tip: Use brow tools like pencils, powders, or gels to create symmetrical brows, and follow your natural shape for the most flattering effect.
Well-defined brows can elevate your confidence. Whether you’re preparing for a big meeting, a date, or just your day, knowing your brows are on point helps you feel more polished. Even with minimal makeup, well-groomed brows add a refined touch.
Tip: Investing in professional brow shaping or learning to shape your brows at home provides a foundation for consistently great brows, boosting confidence.
No makeup look is complete without defined brows. Whether you prefer a natural style or a bold, dramatic approach, brows tie the entire look together. Even stunning eye makeup can seem unfinished without brow definition, while defined brows add balance and a polished finish.
Tip: For a bold look, use an angled brush and brow pomade for structured brows. For natural days, a tinted brow gel or pencil gives a soft enhancement.
Brows play a major role in expressing emotions. Whether raising an eyebrow in surprise or furrowing them in thought, your brows shape how emotions are perceived. Defined, shaped brows help clarify expressions and can soften or emphasize your look.
Tip: Softer brows create an approachable look, while sharper brows offer a stronger, assertive style. Adjust your brow style to match your personality or the impression you want to give.
Every face is unique, and brows tailored to your features accentuate your best attributes. A one-size-fits-all brow style doesn’t work for everyone; a shape that complements a round face may not suit an angular one.
Tip: Work with a professional or use a guide to find your ideal brow shape. For instance, a slight arch can elongate a round face, while a softer brow complements angular features.
If your brows are sparse or uneven, defining them can create a fuller, balanced look. Gaps from over-plucking, aging, or genetics can be filled in with the right products, giving a youthful, cohesive appearance.
Tip: Choose products that match your natural hair color, and use short, hair-like strokes to fill in gaps for a natural effect.
Defining your eyebrows enhances natural beauty, boosts symmetry, raises confidence, and elevates your look. From soft and natural to bold and structured, well-groomed brows are a beauty essential. With the right tools and techniques, you can create the perfect brows to frame your face, highlight your features, and give you a polished, put-together look every day.
For all your beauty needs check out the services offered by Queens Beauty, 745 Whangaparaoa Road, Stanmore Bay - Whangaparaoa - Ph: 021-133-6379 - Email: alyabeautynz@gmail.com - Web: https://queensbeauty.co.nz