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Planning a wedding in New Zealand can be a beautiful and unique experience, especially with the latest trends and innovations in mind.
Here are 10 hot tips on planning your ‘big day’ incorporating the latest ideas, post-COVID considerations, micro versus lavish weddings, and relevant statistics.

Happy reading!

1. Assess Your Budget and Guest Count

• Micro Weddings: One of the few upsides of a post-Covid wedding landscape is a focus on “quality versus quantity”. Covid-19 and its raft of restrictions included reducing numbers of guests attending a wedding ceremony/reception to a bare minimum. In the post-Covid world, it almost gave couples permission to re-look at the need* (*versus want), of having a large, lavish wedding affair, rather than a more intimate wedding soiree.
  
  The term “micro weddings” post-Covid became as on-trend as “pivot” was during the global pandemic. Typically, a micro wedding involves 10-50 guests, allowing for more personalization and higher-quality details. Costs can be kept lower but can be spent on high-end experiences.
  
  
• Lavish Weddings: Often have 100+ guests, creating a grander atmosphere but usually require a larger budget. Average wedding costs in NZ can range from NZD 20,000 to NZD 50,000+.
  
  

2. Research the Latest Trends and Innovations

• Virtual Elements: Hybrid weddings have become popular, allowing guests to attend remotely. This trend caters to those who can’t travel or prefer to stay home.
  
  
• Sustainability: Eco-friendly practices are trending, such as using biodegradable decorations and locally sourced flowers.
  
  

3. Choose a Unique Venue

• Outdoor venues like beaches, parks, or vineyards are popular, especially for micro weddings. They provide natural beauty and often reduce decoration costs.
  
  

4. Personalize the Experience

• Create a tailored experience for guests, whether it’s a unique food menu or personalized favors. This is easier to achieve with a smaller guest list.
  
  

5. Hire Local Vendors

• Support local businesses and artists by hiring photographers, caterers, and florists from the area. This trend has gained momentum post-COVID, promoting community support.
  
  

6. Health and Safety Protocols

• Stay informed about local health guidelines. Even with smaller gatherings, ensure you provide hand sanitizers and follow any venue protocols.
  
  

7. Incorporate Technology

• Use apps for RSVPs, creating wedding websites, and live-streaming the ceremony. QR codes can provide guests with easy access to menus and information.
  
  

8. Craft a Memorable Ceremony

• Personal touches such as writing your own vows, including cultural elements, or having a friend officiate can make the ceremony meaningful, whether micro or large.
  
  

9. Plan for Guest Engagement

• For larger weddings, consider interactive stations like photo booths or games. For micro weddings, create intimate moments like a shared experience (e.g., a group activity or a workshop).
  
  

10. Analyze Trends and Stats

• According to recent studies, 2022 saw an increase in micro weddings (30% of couples opted for smaller celebrations) as they provided a more intimate atmosphere during uncertain times. In New Zealand, the average age for first marriages is rising, with many couples focusing on experiences rather than material elements.
  
  

Relevant Information:

• Marriage Rates: Data from Stats NZ shows that marriage rates are gradually recovering post-pandemic, with a noticeable preference for smaller, more personal ceremonies.
• Cost Insights: Recent surveys indicate that couples are spending more on experiences (e.g., unique venues or catering) rather than traditional elements (like formal invitations), particularly in the context of micro weddings.

Final Thoughts:

Whether you choose a micro wedding or a lavish celebration, the key is to reflect your personalities and values. Embrace the flexibility that modern trends offer, and enjoy the planning process!