This week, I’m joined by Tania, a recent bride and on-the-day wedding coordinator at Eighty Eight Events. She and her husband planned a beautifully intentional celebration at Six One Five Matakana.
From high-school sweethearts to a proposal that unfolded right at home, Tania’s story is full of honesty and the kind of grounded perspective couples need to hear.
We chat about:
💜 Navigating 12+ years together, moving through life stages, and finally getting engaged
💜 Choosing priorities like good food, good drinks, and good company
💜 Balancing family input, traditions, and their own priorities
💜 Finding a dress that felt timeless, comfortable, and true to her
💜 Their calm, present wedding day and how she managed to stay grounded
💜 What a wedding coordinator really does behind the scenes and why it’s worth considering one
💜 The realities of planning a DIY wedding while working full-time
… and so much more!
Follow Tania at @eightyeightevents_ on Instagram.
Let me know what you think of this episode!
If you want to check out photos from this wedding and see more behind the scenes, head to @thekiwiweddingpodcast and follow Lydia at @lydiarachelphoto
Vendors:
Catering: @sourcekitchennz
Cake: @from__sugar
Celebrant: @jimsweddings
Day of Coordinator: @dreamevents_nz
Florals: @floralcentric
Furniture: @lowercasehire
Hair & Makeup: @fionawright__
Lion Dancers: @tungtekliondance
Marquees & Umbrellas: @raj_tent_club_nz
Photography: @jesseandjessieweddings
Venue: @sixonefive_matakana
This week, I’m joined by Michele, who planned a relaxed, intimate celebration for her special day. Michele and her husband chose Wild Canvas in Waitomo for a small glamping-style wedding with just their mums and two close couples.
We chat about:
💜 A surprise proposal hidden inside a birthday card at Falls Retreat
💜 Choosing their date 02.04.24 and what it symbolised
💜 Planning a micro-wedding at Wild Canvas and keeping the guest list and the budget, tiny
💜 How an all-in package made everything low-stress and simple
💜 Walking down the aisle five minutes after getting dressed, and forgetting her bouquet
💜 Finding the one at Madison Rose Bridal on her first appointment
💜 Sharing their pregnancy news with their mums on the wedding day
💜 The vintage plane flyover that felt like fate
💜 Heading straight into a European honeymoon
💜 Why there were no post-wedding blues, just post-holiday ones
💜 Her business, The Perfect Match, and sourcing affordable, sustainable wedding accessories
...and so much more!
Follow The Perfect Match: @theperfectmatchnz
🎧 Let me know what you think of this episode!
Below you can find the handles for all M & D’s incredible vendors. Be sure to check out some photos on IG at @thekiwiweddingpodcast + give us a follow. Follow Lydia at @lydiarachelphoto
Vendors:
Photographer: @courtneyhorwood_photo
Venue: @wildcanvas.nz
Celebrant: @suzannehoare
Hair & Makeup: @_kayleighcreates (now closed)
Flowers: @mossandconz
Cake: @birdie_x_bakes
Dress: @madisonrose.bridal
Accessories & Confetti: @theperfectmatchnz
Brides Rings: @fourwordsnz
Buy Glowguard SPF 50+ by Melitta Skin. Use code: KWP15 for 15% off.
You might remember Brogan Scott from Episode 21, where she joined me as a vendor to chat all things stationery and design. This time, she’s back on the podcast as a bride, sharing all about her and Josh’s vibrant, inner-city Auckland celebration at Old Government House and Grand Harbour Restaurant.
We chat about:
💜 A breakfast-in-bed proposal and why getting engaged in the morning is the best idea
💜 Finding her vintage wedding dress and creating a custom veil to match
💜 Choosing a restaurant reception for its fun, intimate atmosphere (and incredible food!)
💜 Surprising guests with a live brass band leading everyone through the city
💜 Planning their entire wedding while running a busy studio
💜 The realities of being both a wedding vendor and a bride
💜 Pulling together styling and stationery just three weeks before the big day
💜 Her creative collaborations with other NZ wedding vendors and friends
💜 How they kept the day feeling authentic, playful, and stress-free
💜 Brogan’s honest advice for couples planning a wedding that feels true to you
...and so much more!
Follow Brogan: @broganscottstudio
🎧 Let me know what you think of this episode!
🎧 Listen to Brogan on Episode 21
🎧 Listen to “Forever Friend by The James Hunt Appreciation Club” song
🎧 Brogan and Josh featured in Vogue
Below you can find the handles for all B & J’s incredible vendors. Be sure to check out some photos on IG at @thekiwiweddingpodcast + give us a follow. Follow Lydia at @lydiarachelphoto
Vendors:
Photographer: @kerynsweeneyphotographer
Styling, Design & Stationery: @broganscottstudio
On-the-day Coordinator: @withlove.weddingsandevents
Florals: @floralcentric
Wedding Dress: @lovejamesstore
Wedding Dress rework & Overskirt: @brooketysonritual
Custom Kilt: @re_______studio
Content Creator: @theaisle___
Veil: @harriettfalvey
Custom Shoes: @rebeofficial
Make Up Artist: @rae_makeup
Hair Stylist: @hair_by_vvn
Flower Girls Dresses: @tinydancerwellington
Procession Band: @thesaxobros
Reception Lighting: @torch____
Celebrant: @jameshunt.studio
Reception Table Linen: @tble__linen__hire
Ceremony Table Linen: @nicksfabrics
Engagement Rings: @sebbrown
DJ: @drlovesdiscos
In this episode, I chat with Libby about her relaxed Arrowtown wedding. Their day was the perfect mix of meaning, simplicity, and autumn beauty. If you’re planning an intimate celebration that still feels special and elevated, you’ll love this episode.
We chat about:
💜 How Libby and Matt met in Yorkshire, moved to New Zealand early in their relationship, and built a life in Auckland
💜 The rainy, private proposal at North Head in Devonport with dog walking clothes and zero fuss
💜 Choosing Arrowtown for its beauty and meaning, and finding a ceremony spot via the council reserves page
💜 Priorities that mattered most: whimsical, romantic photo and Super 8 video, keeping the day intimate and relaxed
💜 Bridal party kept simple and meaningful with one best friend each
💜 Guest count around 30 to keep it intimate and manageable
💜 Budget talk and how a Queenstown wedding doesn’t have to break the bank
💜 Smart savings: an $80 council permit for the ceremony site and a function space not marketed as a wedding venue
💜 Their first look at Jack’s Point to calm nerves and create space for couple-time without disappearing from guests for hours
💜 Planning tools that helped: Notion for shared checklists, timelines, vendors, and an Excel budget tracker
💜 Wise advice around exploring all the options, talking about what genuinely brings you both joy, and building your day around that.
...and so much more!
🎧 Let me know what you think of this episode!
Below you can find the handles for all L & M’s incredible vendors. Be sure to check out some photos on IG at @thekiwiweddingpodcast + give us a follow. Follow Lydia at @lydiarachelphoto
Vendors:
Photo & Super8 Video: @eloisebicklephotography
Flowers: @thearrowtownflowercompany
Celebrant: @traceymaclarencelebrant
Hair: @sarahlouisehair.bridal
Makeup: @paigeshipstonemakeup
Ceremony Location: Wilcox Green, Arrowtown
Furniture Rental: @qtweddinghire
Reception Venue: @thebluedoornz
Food: @littleaostanz
Cheesecakes: @weeping.willow.cakes
Music: @brettwalkermusic
Dress: @jennyyoonyc
Shoes: @mi_piaci
Suits: @barkersclothing
In this episode, I’m chatting with the brilliant stylist Georgette all about colour analysis, body shape styling, and feeling genuinely confident in what you wear.
We also dive into her own wedding planning journey, from finding a dress that made her feel beautiful, and the mindset shifts that are helping her plan a day that feels like her.
We chat about:
💜 Georgette’s creative path from fashion and editorial styling in New Zealand to New York, then home to launch her studio and business
💜 What colour analysis really is, why undertones matter, and how the right colours make your face light up
💜 Body shape analysis and the fabric weights and silhouettes that flatter different shapes in real life
💜 Practical ways to elevate your style without a huge budget
💜 Why black isn’t for everyone and might not be as flattering as you think
💜 Building sustainable routines as a busy creative and avoiding burnout
💜 How colour analysis helps with bridal looks, including choosing your best shade of white
💜 Georgette’s honest wedding-dress shopping experience and finding a supportive designer (shoutout @naralierosebridal ) who made her feel amazing
💜 Bridesmaid styling, with each friend in their colours and a silhouette that suits them
💜 Planning a wedding that feels timeless, personal, and true to you rather than trend-led
💜 Colours she’s loving, fashion icks, and her celebrity style icon
💜 A fun reveal at the end: I had my colours done over the weekend, listen to find out my season.
...and so much more!
Follow Georgette:
🎧 If you enjoyed this chat, I’d love a rating or review, and come tell me your colour season or your biggest wedding-style win after listening. 💜
Be sure to check out some photos on IG at @thekiwiweddingpodcast + give us a follow. Follow Lydia at @lydiarachelphoto
On today’s episode, I’m chatting with Kelsey all about her Central Otago wedding. From the planning process to how the day unfolded, what she learned along the way, and some honest reflections on what really mattered most.
We chat about:
💜 How she and her husband first met at uni in Dunedin (and how he spent a while in the friend zone)
💜 The Coromandel proposal that didn’t go quite to plan… complete with a handmade “Will you marry me?” box of chocolates and a power cut right after saying “yes”
💜 Finding her dream dress in Melbourne after struggling to find anything unique in NZ
💜 Planning a marquee wedding at Royalburn Station, and the surprise way they ended up booking the venue
💜 How they kept their guest list intimate and why wedding planning “is not for people pleasers”
💜 The moody, slightly rainy wedding day, including private vows and heli photos on the Remarkables
💜 Honest talk about budget and what caught them by surprise
💜 The best advice she’d give to couples in the planning stage, including how to handle opinions from family and friends
💜 Kelsey’s refreshing approach to health and body image as a bride, and her work as a dietitian and co-founder of The Friendly Food Co
...and so much more!
🎧 It’s a relaxed, honest chat full of helpful takeaways and stories every couple will relate to. I’d love to hear what you think of this one!
Follow Kelsey:
@lifeof_kelsey@thefriendlyfood_co
Below you can find the handles for all K & D’s incredible vendors. Be sure to check out some photos on IG at @thekiwiweddingpodcast + give us a follow. Follow Lydia at @lydiarachelphoto
Vendors:
Photographer: @emily_adamson
Dress: Custom @thesposagroupaustralia
Second Dress: @meshki
Hair/Makeup: @road_to_beauty_nz
Shoes: @foreversoles
Florals: @bespokeweddingsandevents
Wedding Planners: @alexandrakatecreative
Celebrant: @yourbigdayqt
Venue: @royalburn_station
Catering: @queenstowncateringnz
Cake: @weeping.willow.cakes
Stationery/Signage: @hstudio.co
Marquee + Hire: @trulyyours_events
Entertainment: @robertglenmusic
This week, I’m chatting with recent bride Tamera, who shares the story of her and Josh’s beautiful villa wedding.
Tamera opens up about the highs, the hiccups, and the lessons learned along the way. From bridal party challenges to trusting her vendors and creating a day that truly felt like them.
We chat about:
💜 How she and Josh went from co-workers who didn’t speak to soulmates (and the night out that changed everything)
💜 Their vineyard proposal story in Martinborough
💜 Why she chose to hold their wedding at a private villa and how she made it work logistically
💜 The “old money” inspired styling and the personal touches behind her colour palette
💜 How hiring a coordinator (George & Co) completely changed her wedding experience
💜 The story behind her custom Paper Swan gown and her advice for wedding dress shopping
💜 Navigating changing friendships and what to keep in mind when choosing bridesmaids
💜 Planning a smooth wedding-day timeline to spend more time with guests
💜 Her honest take on budget blowouts, wedding week prep, and the moments she’ll never forget
💜 The tips she wishes every bride knew, from makeup trials to planning around your cycle and letting go of control
...and so much more!
🎧 It’s such a warm, candid chat full of practical advice and real, relatable moments. Let me know what you think of this episode!
Below you can find the handles for all T & J’s incredible vendors. Be sure to check out some photos on IG at @thekiwiweddingpodcast + give us a follow. Follow Lydia at @lydiarachelphoto
Vendors:
Photography: @pappedyouphotography
Content Creation: @nosyparker__
Coordination: @georgeandcoevents
Florals: @thistle_avenue
Hair & Makeup: @jaymiejarvis.makeupartist @daynamaree.hair from @duo_styling
Food: @thecraftedandco
Signage: @eversoprettyevents
Venue: Private property
Dress: @paperswanbride
Ceremony Musician: @vividstrings
DJ + Music: @poksmusic
Celebrant: @forever.knot
Bridal Rings: @thediamondshop
Furniture Hire: @thevintagepartynz
Thank you to @nuzest for supporting this episode.
In this episode of The Kiwi Wedding Podcast, I chat with Aamina from Layaz Jewellery about creating meaningful, bespoke pieces that are as personal as the love stories behind them.
We explore her journey from teaching to launching her own jewellery brand, her favourite gemstones, and the timeless luxury she brings to every design.
We chat about:
💜 How Aamina went from aspiring lawyer and teacher to launching Layaz Jewellery and sharing a family legacy
💜 The process of designing bespoke pieces tailored to a client’s story, style, and personality
💜 Tips for choosing engagement rings and wedding bands that suit your lifestyle and long-term investment goals
💜 Aamina’s love of coloured gemstones, sapphires, and creating heirloom-quality jewellery
💜 Insights on lab-grown diamonds versus natural gemstones and why legacy matters in fine jewellery
💜 Creative ways couples have added personal touches to their rings, from engravings to incorporating heirloom gold
💜 The future of Layaz, including Dare to Dazzle by Layaz, and expansion to the USA
...and so much more!
🎧 Whether you’re dreaming about your engagement ring or just love hearing the stories behind meaningful jewellery, this episode is packed with wisdom, inspiration, and beautiful insights from Aamina.
Be sure to check out some photos on IG at @thekiwiweddingpodcast + give us a follow. Follow Lydia at @lydiarachelphoto
Follow Aamina:
In this episode, I’m joined by Rachel, a florist from Wānaka (with the team at @thegreenroomflowerco), who shares the story of her stunning Lake Ōhau Lodge wedding to her best friend, Marshall.
After years of friendship, their relationship turned into love, and their wedding was the perfect mix of heartfelt, fun, and completely true to them.
We chat about:
💜 How Rachel and Marshall’s friendship turned into a love story (and why it was the easiest relationship she’s ever been in)
💜 Their proposal story with a lakeside photo shoot and a sapphire ring
💜 Why they chose Lake Ōhau lodge as their venue and how it created a relaxed, family-filled wedding weekend
💜 Rachel’s experience dress shopping in Auckland and finding the gown at the Pink Palace with Natalie Rose
💜 The unique bridal party line-up with ten groomsmen and no bridesmaids
💜 Highlights from the day, including a helicopter ride, emotional vows, and a silent disco to finish the night
💜 Planning tips from a florist: budgeting, trusting your vendors, and why you should never DIY your flowers on the wedding morning
💜 Rachel’s advice for couples who want to create a day that feels authentic, stress-free, and full of joy
...and so much more!
🎧 It’s such a mix of love, laughter, and practical wisdom. I know you’ll come away with both inspiration and some really grounded tips for your own wedding planning.
Below you can find the handles for all R & M’s incredible vendors. Be sure to check out some photos on IG at @thekiwiweddingpodcast + give us a follow. Follow Lydia at @lydiarachelphoto
Vendors:
Photographer: @run_in_the_shadows
Flowers:
Dress: @natalierosebridal
Venue: @lakeohaulodge
Makeup: @paigeshipstonemakeup
Hair: @hairtowedbytina
Signs and Menus: @simplesignsnz
Heli: @heliventuresnz
Band: @la.social
Celebrant: @becsandyscelebrant
Content Creation: @bowden__studio
Second Dress: @meshki
Tan: @skyebeautywanaka
Nails: @glamorous_nails.beauty
Skin Prep: @iluhub
Engagement Ring: @cushlawhiting
Groomsmen: @hallensteinbrothers
Thinking about a destination wedding, or just love hearing the real, unfiltered stories? In this episode, I chat with entrepreneur & influencer Iyia Liu about her Bali wedding, and trust me, it’s a good one. From hilarious moments to honest budget chats, this is such a fun listen.
We chat about:
💜 The unexpected and hilarious way Iyia & Jordan got engaged
💜 Why she chose Bali over a New Zealand venue, and whether it really saved money
💜 How Iyia found her wedding dress in the most unexpected way
💜 What it was like planning with a Bali wedding planner and how stress-free it made things
💜 The funniest moments from the day and an epic party
💜 How she kept the whole celebration relaxed, fun, and all about the guest experience
💜 Iyia’s top advice for couples considering a destination wedding
💜 Deep diving into the budget and what she chose to sacrifice and save money on
...and so much more!
🎧 If you’re planning your own wedding, in New Zealand or overseas, you’ll love Iyia’s down-to-earth perspective and refreshing honesty.
Below you can find the handles for all I & J’s incredible vendors. Be sure to check out some photos on IG at @thekiwiweddingpodcast + give us a follow. Follow Lydia at @lydiarachelphoto
Vendors:
Hair & Makeup: @cherish_mua
Flower Girl Dresses: @_littlelanestore
Photographer: @esmeandlogan
Videographer: @thecinemabali
Bridesmaids: @becandbridge
Wedding Dress: @pallascouture
Second Dress: @eliyathelabel
Location: @karma.kandara.bali
Men’s Suits: @rembrandt1946
Nails: @nailsbyashleighj
Tan: @taninthecity
Wedding Planner: @balifortwo
Lashes: @lasharchitectnz
Alterations: @alterme_bridal
Thank you to Betty Bars for supporting this episode. Use code: LYDIA20 to get 20% off at checkout!
No matter what kind of wedding you’re planning, this episode is full of wisdom you’ll want to hear.
I’m joined by Lucy Burke, Managing Director of Lucy’s Event Hire, who grew her business from a DIY project at home to one of New Zealand’s leading wedding and event hire companies.
With 10 years of experience and hundreds of weddings behind her, Lucy knows exactly what goes into creating a celebration that feels seamless and unforgettable.
We chat about:
💜 Lucy’s journey from side hustle to leading a nationwide hire company
💜 The biggest trends shaping New Zealand weddings right now
💜 Why having a plan B is essential (and how you can never fully trust the weather in NZ)
💜 Smart ways to prioritise your budget without losing style or impact
💜 Practical tips that apply to every wedding, from small to large
💜 Behind-the-scenes realities and problem-solving vendors don’t often share
💜 Advice to cut through the overwhelm and plan with confidence
...and so much more!
🎧 Whether you’re dreaming of a marquee wedding, planning a colourful modern celebration, or simply want insights from someone who’s seen it all, this episode will leave you feeling inspired and prepared.
Follow Lucy: @lucyseventhire
Be sure to check out some photos on IG at @thekiwiweddingpodcast + give us a follow. Follow Lydia at @lydiarachelphoto
Today I’m joined by Grace, who shares her and Robbie’s wedding at Vanderosa Farms in Leigh, a stunning hilltop venue with sweeping ocean views.
We chat about:
💜 Meeting in high school, growing up together and chasing their dreams from Belgium adventures to army life back in NZ.
💜 A surprise proposal on a Canadian boat trip, recorded on a GoPro and made complete with her dream ring.
💜 Choosing Vanderosa online without visiting other venues, and why it was perfect for their weekend-away vibe.
💜 Top priorities: a family-style shared dinner, long tables, and a fun, colourful, relaxed atmosphere.
💜 Finding the perfect mix of dresses for seven bridesmaids.
💜 Why she highly recommends a videographer (and what they did instead of an on-the-day coordinator).
💜 Budget talk - what they thought it would cost vs the reality.
💜 How she kept decision fatigue at bay by avoiding endless vendor-hunting and Pinterest overwhelm.
💜 All the best highlights, lessons, and advice she’d give other couples planning now.
...and so much more!
🎧 Listen in for a down-to-earth wedding story with loads of practical takeaways for couples who want their day to feel fun, personal, and truly theirs.
Below you can find the handles for all G & R’s incredible vendors. Be sure to check out some photos on IG at @thekiwiweddingpodcast + give us a follow. Follow Lydia at @lydiarachelphoto
Vendors:
Photographer: @thecedarweddings.co
Flowers: @foxytwigs & @handsinthedirt_
Venue: @vanderosafarms
DJ & Videographer: @smgvisual
Catering: @krave.catering
Drink Service: @somekindofwonderfulnz
Makeup: @puremakeupartistnz
Hair: @minas.hair.studio
Furniture Hire: @carltonpartyhirenz
Buses: @ecoach_mahucityexpress
Dress: @kyhabride
Bridesmaids Dresses: @caitlincrispbridal & @rubytakessnaps
Groom & Groomsmen Suits: @suitup_nz
Today I’m joined by Emma - florist, wedding vendor and recent bride, who shares her relaxed and personal Queenstown wedding. From planning a simple lakeside ceremony to creating her own florals, Emma’s story is full of practical advice and thoughtful inspiration for couples wanting to keep things stress-free and true to themselves.
🎟️ Tickets for The Kiwi Wedding Podcast LIVE Event (August 31st in Auckland) are on sale now! We’ll have cake, dresses, goodie bags, and an incredible lineup of speakers, including makeup artist Kate Solley, dress designer Trish Peng, and Astrid Braid wedding planner from PS. I Love You. Brides, couples, and vendors alike - come along for a beautiful morning.
GRAB YOUR TICKET FOR THE KIWI WEDDING PODCAST LIVE!
We chat about:
💜 Meeting Rich on their OE in the UK and building a life together in New Zealand.
💜 The Queenstown proposal at Sunshine Bay, a sentimental spot where they’d spent many evenings.
💜 Planning a small, family-focused wedding with 13 guests, making it intimate and low-key.
💜 Saying “I do” at a DOC carpark overlooking Lake Wakatipu - proof you don’t need a big venue for breathtaking views.
💜 Creating her own flowers as a florist (and why she might recommend having someone else do them instead!).
💜 Emma’s bridal look: a simple cream slip dress paired with an overtop blouse sewn by her mum.
💜 Their son napping through half the ceremony, then joining them mid-vows for the sweetest family moment.
💜 Skipping the traditional reception. Instead sharing bubbles with family, photos at their engagement spot, then dinner at Botswana Butchery.
💜 Budgeting: how they kept it simple and spent around $13k total, including rings, accommodation and dinner.
💜 Vendor advice from a florist’s perspective: where to prioritise your flower budget, repurposing arrangements, and why buttonholes are fading in popularity.
💜 Trends Emma’s noticing in florals this season… less plinths, more lush backdrops, and smaller bouquets.
💜 The importance of leaning into your own style, not just trends, and trusting your florist to refine your vision.
...and so much more!
🎧 Listen in for one of our most relaxed wedding stories yet - an inspiration in keeping it simple, meaningful, and truly you.
Below you can find the handles for all E & R’s incredible vendors. Be sure to check out some photos on IG at @thekiwiweddingpodcast + give us a follow. Follow Lydia at @lydiarachelphoto
Vendors:
Flowers: @lindengrovefloral
Photographer: @who.took.the.picture
Celebrant: @yourbigdayqt @marriedbyemily
Hair: @hairtowedbytina
Makeup: Bride
Nails: @1999houseofnailsnz
Tan: @afterglowbeauty_christchurch
Dress: @vila_official @asos
Silk Organza Blouse: Bride’s Mum
Blouse Fabric sourced from: @hawesandfreer
Shoes: @merchant1948
Suit: @_3wisemen
Rings: @filigreefinejewels
Accommodation: @toniclodge
Chair hire: @qtweddinghire
Ceremony Location: 7 Mile Point Track @docgovtnz
Dinner Venue: @botswanabutcheryqueenstown
Set up + Babysitter: Bride’s Friend, Cary’s
Today I’m joined by Gemma, who shares how she and Josh planned their beautiful, uniquely-them celebration: a private family ceremony on a hilltop, then a relaxed reception at their family beach property in Taupō Bay. All pulled together in six months while working full-time and parenting their four-year-old.
🎟️ Tickets for The Kiwi Wedding Podcast LIVE Event (August 31st in Auckland) are on sale now! We’ll have delicious treats, champagne towers, goodie bags, and an incredible lineup of speakers, including makeup artist Kate Solley, dress designer Trish Peng, and Astrid Braid wedding planner from PS. I Love You. Brides, couples, and vendors alike - come along for a beautiful morning.
GRAB YOUR TICKET FOR THE KIWI WEDDING PODCAST LIVE!
We chat about:
💜 How they met at a Fashion Week after-party, built a life together, and decided to get married.
💜 The sentimental Bali proposal in Uluwatu with their son there - lots of tears, a hidden ring, and a celebratory dinner at Mason.
💜 Choosing a six-month engagement and keeping planning simple, focused and “them”.
💜 Why they split the day: an intimate ceremony with 15 close family, then a bigger reception later.
💜 The ceremony feels: sunshine, a family-friend celebrant, their son standing with them, and the “can’t-put-it-into-words” moments.
💜 Gemma’s bridal look: a Trish Peng mini (from an unreleased collection), picked quickly and confidently because it felt like her.
💜 Why they kept it small and removed tradition responsibilities when it came to their bridal party.
💜A late-in-the-piece giant tiramisu.
💜 Budgeting and how they saved by using their property and paying as they went.
💜 Inspiration without copy-paste: Pinterest/TikTok for ideas, then tailoring details to fit their style.
💜 Post-wedding: more “post-holiday” than blues; a mini staycation now and a family Bali trip later.
...and so much more!
🎧 Listen in for a masterclass on shaping a celebration around your life, your family and your favourite place, and why a private ceremony + big party can be the perfect combo.
Below you can find the handles for all G & J’s incredible vendors. Be sure to check out some photos on IG at @thekiwiweddingpodcast + give us a follow. Follow Lydia at @lydiarachelphoto
Vendors:
Photographer: @liamsoulphoto
Dress and Scarf: @trishpeng
Shoes: @eleanorlouiseco
Celebrant: James Braddock
Makeup Artist: @claudialouismarie
Hair: @the_hair_box_nz
Food: @the_wayward_italian
Today on the podcast I’m joined by the lovely Ainsley, florist, wedding vendor and recent bride. You might know her from Floralcentric or have seen her stunning Queenstown wedding featured on the cover of Together Journal. She shares the real behind-the-scenes of planning her own wedding while working in the industry, plus her top flower tips and trends for couples currently planning.
🎟️ Tickets for The Kiwi Wedding Podcast LIVE Event (August 31st in Auckland) are on sale now! We’ll have delicious treats, champagne towers, goodie bags, and an incredible lineup of speakers, including makeup artist Kate Solley, dress designer Trish Peng, and Astrid Braid wedding planner from PS. I Love You. Brides, couples, and vendors alike - come along for a beautiful morning.
GRAB YOUR TICKET FOR THE KIWI WEDDING PODCAST LIVE!
We chat about:
💜 Ainsley shares how she and Josh met overseas on their OEs in London with a little matchmaking help from Josh’s cousin (and her future maid of honour).
💜 Their beautiful Queenstown wedding took place at her grandparents’ garden property, a sentimental spot and the ultimate floral backdrop.
💜 Hear the romantic proposal story set at a secluded Raglan cabin.
💜 She opens up about planning paralysis as a vendor surrounded by too much inspo and how working with Claire Donaldson helped bring her vision together.
💜 Ainsley shares why photography and videography were their biggest priorities and her strong recommendation not to skip the video.
💜 Two stunning custom Brooke Tyson dresses, the fun of a second outfit, and choosing fashion that suits your vibe.
💜 From relaxed hens in Hawke’s Bay to a fun pool party the next day, Ainsley spills all the details on the lead up and full week of celebrations.
💜 As a florist, Ainsley shares loads of tips, from where to start with flower planning to how to maximise your budget and what’s trending (hello Calla Lilies and petite bouquets).
💜 Plus, we get the story of how Floralcentric began, from London freelancing to a COVID-era mother-daughter studio dream.
...and so much more!
If you’re a bride-to-be navigating inspo overload or wondering how to make your florals feel personal and impactful, this one’s full of helpful gems.
Follow Ainsley:
Below you can find the handles for all A & J’s incredible vendors. Be sure to check out some photos on IG at @thekiwiweddingpodcast + give us a follow. Follow Lydia at @lydiarachelphoto
Vendors:
Location: @chanteclergardens
Photographer: @stephanandnakita
Videographer: @flatrocfilms
Dresses & Veil: @brooketysonritual
Groom’s Suit: @workingstylenz
Bride’s Shoes: @nicole.rebstock
Bride’s Party Shoes: @zara
Bride’s Bag: @georgiajaybags
Bride’s Rings: @naveyaandsloanejewellery
Bride’s Earrings: @jasminsparrowjewellery
Groom’s Ring: @guys.gold
Bridesmaid’s Dresses: @benni.au
Bridesmaids’ Shoes: @zara
Florals: @michelecoomeyfloral
Stylist: @onelovelydaystyling
Celebrant: Bride’s Aunty
Bride’s Makeup: @jetmakeupartist
Bridesmaids’ Makeup: @livkingmakeup
Bride’s Hair: @beautifulbridalhair
On-the-Day Coordinators: Friends Kim Bright & Mel Kong
Dining & Bar Marquee: @trulyyours_events
Dance Floor Marquee: @yougather_events
Tableware: @royallaboratorie
Linen: @tble__linen__hire
Entertainment: @derekforealmusic, @theexecsnz
Catering: @artisan_catering
Lighting & Draping: @lalumiere_nz
Stationery, Signage & Wedding Website: @broganscottstudio
Backdrop Behind Bar: @inkertinker.nz
Furniture: @flockevents
In this episode, I’m joined by the incredible Natalie Rose from Natalie Rose Bridal. You might know her iconic “Pink Palace” boutique on Parnell Road, Auckland, or have seen some of her gorgeous brides featured in past episodes.
Natalie is known for her beautifully structured gowns, honest advice, and the unforgettable experience she creates for every bride who walks through her door.
This was a special one- my first-ever in-person podcast recording, right in Natalie’s boutique. We dive into her journey from a childhood filled with pride in her mum’s dressmaking skills, to a career in finance, and then making the bold (and chaotic) leap to open her own bridal shop during the middle of a pandemic.
We chat about:
💜 What a truly magical dress shopping experience should feel like (it should be one of the best days of your life).
💜 The emotional weight brides carry into the fitting room, and how Natalie and her team help them feel seen and celebrated.
💜 A realistic wedding dress timeline (why you need 12–24 months and why it’s never too early to start).
💜 How to handle too many opinions in the fitting room, and why less is often more when choosing your entourage.
💜 The truth about “timeless” weddings and why you should focus on what feels the most you.
💜 Trends Natalie’s loving - gothic influences, Basque waists, tulle, and taffeta making a comeback.
💜 Wedding day prep tips you’ve probably overlooked.
💜 Natalie’s no-BS advice for tuning out the noise, trusting your gut, and finding the dress that makes you feel like the real you.
💜 Why you should never use AI to write your vows.
...and so much more!
Natalie shares so much wisdom about navigating the emotions, expectations, and pressures that come with dress shopping. Her approach is all about helping brides find the gown that feels the most themselves, not the “most beautiful” according to anyone else’s opinion.
You’ll love her down-to-earth advice and straight-talking encouragement to tune out the noise and embrace the experience.
Follow Natalie:
🎟️ Tickets for The Kiwi Wedding Podcast LIVE Event (August 31st in Auckland) are on sale now! We’ll have delicious treats, champagne towers, goodie bags, and an incredible lineup of speakers, including makeup artist Kate Solley, dress designer Trish Peng, and Astrid Braid wedding planner from PS. I Love You. Brides, couples, and vendors alike - come along for a beautiful morning.
This week on the podcast, I’m joined by the radiant Anika-Skye, a makeup artist, owner of Skye Beauty and newlywed who planned a beautiful wedding at Black Walnut in Tauranga.
From meeting her now-husband as teenagers to creating Pinterest boards and Canva slideshows to bring her vision to life, Anika shares practical tips and thoughtful insights from her wedding planning journey.
We chat about:
💜 Anika’s love story with Beckam – from high school sweethearts to a beautiful beach proposal.
💜 How they found their dream venue and ended up booking it on the spot.
💜 The top priorities they agreed on for their wedding day.
💜 The importance of timelines, DIY prep, and why she still wishes she hired a day-of coordinator.
💜 The wedding budget reality: what they planned, what they spent, and where they chose to splurge.
💜 How she balanced sentimental touches with fun moments.
💜 Post-wedding blues and why she swears by having a content creator to relive it all.
💜 Her top planning tools and resources (Pinterest, Together Journal, Say I Do).
💜 Bridal beauty tips: simple skin prep, embracing your usual style, and why trials matter.
💜 What it’s like booking and working with Anika for your wedding day makeup.
...and so much more!
Anika was the sweetest guest and shared so many thoughtful takeaways from both sides – as a bride and a vendor. Whether you’re planning your wedding or figuring out your dream makeup look, you’ll love this one.
GRAB YOUR TICKET FOR THE KIWI WEDDING PODCAST LIVE!
Auckland, happening Sunday 31st August 2025. It’s going to be such a good morning – inspiring panel chats, amazing food, lovely humans and very good goodie bags.
Follow Anika:
Below you can find the handles for all A & B’s amazing vendors. Be sure to check out some photos on IG at @thekiwiweddingpodcast + give us a follow. Follow Lydia at @lydiarachelphoto
Vendors:
Photography/Videography: @honeylens.weddings
Content Creator: @thesocialsuite.nz
Hair: @flygerhairnz and @dededaph
Makeup: @gabriellehoughtonmua
Beauty Prep and Tanning: @skyebeauty___
Bride’s Tan: @tan.republic
Jewellery: @crystalandcordjewellery and @cambridgejewellersnz
Bride's Dress: @heracouture
Bridesmaid Dresses: @billy_j_bridal
Suits: @dorsetsuits
Flowers: @alexmariestore (now closed)
Venue: @blackwalnutvenue
Food: @hiddentrufflecatering
Audio Guestbook: @leaveamessage.co.nz
Websites used: @sayi_do and @love__reggie
Vase Hire: @tiedhire
In this episode, I’m joined by the incredibly warm and talented makeup artist Kate Solley. With 18 years in the industry, including 10 years at MAC Cosmetics, Kate brings so much experience, wisdom, and calm to every wedding morning.
Whether you’re a makeup lover or someone who barely wears mascara, this episode is packed with practical, stress-free advice you’ll actually want to follow.
We chat about:
💜 Kate’s honest reflection on her own wedding day and how much the wedding world has changed.
💜 Her journey from beauty therapy to running sold-out workshops and destination weddings.
💜 Simple, realistic advice for pre-wedding skincare (that won’t overwhelm you).
💜 The best time to book a trial and why you might want to avoid doing it too early.
💜 Makeup that lasts all day – her favourite products and why she doesn’t use primer.
💜 The things you should not do the week before your wedding (including one big lash warning).
💜 How to still feel like yourself with makeup, even if you’re not used to wearing it.
💜 What to look for when choosing your makeup artist – it’s not just about the portfolio.
💜 Her much-loved workshops and the exciting new The Mastersclass tour she's co-hosting with Gabby Houghton, Kasia Stanicich and Annalee Kemsley.
💜 Some favourite wedding moments (including recent ones in Spain and Tuscany)
💜 What it’s like balancing business with family life
💜 A few of the top products she always has in her kit.
...and so much more!
If you're planning your wedding or just love hearing from inspiring creatives, this one’s a must-listen.
Follow Kate:
Get tickets to The Mastersclass.
Be sure to check out some photos on IG at @thekiwiweddingpodcast to see Kate at work + give us a follow.
In this episode, I chat with the lovely Abby, a recent bride and wedding vendor who shares an honest, funny and super relatable look at planning her wedding while juggling two kids, and working in the industry herself.
We chat about:
💜 How Abby and Storm met working in radio and the adorable proposal followed by a bit of chaos.
💜 Planning when you’re in the wedding industry and why picking a venue was the hardest part.
💜 Juggling wedding planning with two little ones, car seats, nannies and all the extra logistics that come with kids.
💜 The story behind Abby’s dreamy Trish Peng gown, a mix of two designs.
💜 Top priorities: food, music, people and what details she says don’t matter in the end.
💜 Fun party moments with tambourines, fireball shots, cowboy hats and Mr. Brightside.
💜 Abby’s best planning advice for staying sane and soaking it all in.
💜 All about Wildly Madly Deeply and how Abby and her mum help couples with planning, styling, florals and on-the-day coordination.
💜 Tips to stretch your floral budget and trends they’re loving right now.
...and so much more!
Follow Wildy Madly Deeply:
Below you can find the handles for all S & A’s vendors. Be sure to check out some of their photos on IG at @thekiwiweddingpodcast + give us a follow.
Vendors:
Photographer: @aimeeprestonimages
Florals/Styling/Planning: @wildly.madly.deeply
Dress: @trishpeng
Suit: @workingstylenz
Hair & makeup: @thepeach_club
Venue: @fabric_cafe_bistro
Ceremony furniture: @flockevents
Reception furniture: @lucyseventhire
Signage: @paperdarlingnz
Napkins: @tble__linen__hire
Celebrant: @sarahcowleyross
Music: @katewoodmusic
In this episode, I chat with the lovely Liv Clarke about her sweet supermarket romance with Leighton, their surprise Fiji proposal, and how they pulled off a fun, relaxed Tree Church wedding that truly felt like them.
💜 From grocery checkouts to saying “I do”… the sweet way Liv and Leighton’s story began.
💜 How a group trip to Fiji turned into the ultimate surprise proposal.
💜 Why they secretly planned a small wedding and a surprise engagement party for 150.
💜 How Liv found her dream Trish Peng dress for less at a sample sale.
💜 The best wedding spend ever: an on-the-day coordinator to keep things chill.
💜 Why DIY grazing platters were her only regret (and what she’d do instead).
💜 How they skipped the sit-down dinner and had a pizza truck party instead.
💜 Fun TikTok-inspired content ideas they filmed on the day.
💜 Their wedding budget goals and clever ways they saved.
...and so much more!
Follow Liv & Leighton:
Below you can find the handles for all L & L’s vendors. Be sure to check out some of their photos on IG at @thekiwiweddingpodcast + give us a follow.
Vendors:
Venue: @treechurchandgardens
Dress @yourstrulybridalnz @trishpeng
Hair and Makeup: @lisamarie_stylist
Bride Shoes: @mi_piaci
Suits: @dorsetsuits
Rings: @culetjewellery
Photographer: @swiftandclick
Videographer: @intheframe_weddings
Content Creator: @fromscratchcreative_
Bridesmaids Dresses: @billy_j_bridal
Best Ma’am Dress: @rentingwithsb
Stylist & Coordinator + Hire: @thewhiteweddingclub
Flowers: Black and White Cottage (FB)
Food Truck: @mizzoni_nz
Drinks: @drink_pals
DJ Setup & Photobooth: @myeventdjnz
Spray Tan: @tan.republic