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