by Johanna Osborne.

Today we try and give you a little bit of confidence when faced with the daunting task of speaking in front of a big room of wedding guests…

For many (or should I say most) public speaking is about as terrifying as stripping naked in the middle of the street – in front of a bunch of Victoria’s Secret models no less. But what’s a wedding without speeches? It’s all about perspective. If it’s your wedding, then speaking shouldn’t be nearly as scary. After all, everyone in the room is your friend or family, actually “likes” you and is supportive of what you are about to share. With that sort of encouragement it’s just a tad easier to stop the stammering and make yourself heard. Right? Easier said than done, we know.

Heartfelt speeches that aren’t too long and convey emotion are often the highlight of a wedding. It’s just a matter of cutting the waffle and getting down to what you want to say. For the bride and groom it’s all about affirming their love for one another and those that they care about. Everyone in the room will share the emotion, and that’s what guests will take away with them. How they “felt” will dominate how they remember your wedding. And whilst the speeches aren’t just for the guests, it’s important to consider openly expressing what you feel inside, rather than assume your loved one already knows. If there was ever a time to get soft and mushy this is it! Or if that’s not your style, sharing fond memories of special moments together will set you on the right path.

It’s long been a debated issue whether the bride should speak at her wedding. I personally couldn’t believe that there would ever be any doubt. As a verbose person at the best of times, I couldn’t think of a better opportunity to express myself! I couldn’t fathom staying silent and everyone else do the talking for me. I had so much to express at my wedding, and 4 pages and a lot of teeth chattering later, I got my feelings across. Nervous hand shaking, sweaty brows and speaking far too slowly – everyone forgave me for it, because I was the bride!

So what are we trying to say here? At the risk of sounding like a wayward wedding speech today, what we want to do is encourage you to speak and say what you feel. Don’t worry about sounding nervous – people will hang off your every word because they want you to do well and genuinely desire to hear what you have to say.

Our advice is to go for it – you only get one shot and you don’t want to regret not saying how you really felt down the line. Make it count and wear your heart on your sleeve!

 
Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the judgement that something else is more important than fear. ~Ambrose Redmoon

Check this out – The Amazing Travelling Photobooth captured many Mr and Mrs #2 “cover couples” at the Wellington Wedding Show. Great work guys!

by Johanna Osborne.

We have a big respect for Mums. Many of our brides-to-be would either like to be – or already are – a mother, so we would like to dedicate a blog post to all the wonderful Mums out there! They do so much for us and share some of the most special moments of our lives. And of course Mums often play a big part in the wedding preparations and on the big day itself. Where would we be without our Mums?!
 
So what can you do to make your Mother’s Day special this year? We have lined up a few of our top picks for you…
 

1. Wine and Dine – and sleep past 9! Nothing makes a deserving lady relax more than an elegant dinner invitation, and a night spent on fluffy pillows in a sumptuous hotel. A wonderful meal at the White House on Oriental Parade, taking in the breathtaking view and noshing on some of the sumptuous fare, ought to put a spring in any deserving lady’s stride. Alternatively a hop and a skip down the road lies the Amora Hotel, standing proud in its stunning location and boasting a mouth-watering menu of delectable treats, as well as the offer of an unforgettable night “away”. Your Mum will return home feeling like she’s been somewhere very different and rather indulgent. And of course the Bolton Hotel is another favourite of ours, located in the gorgeous Terrace precinct, offering stunning accommodation and wonderful food – what a combination!! And for a true escape from the bright lights and big city, why not send your Mum and her someone special to the Martinborough Hotel. Having stayed there ourselves we can vouch for what a great experience it is. A true getaway offering a marvellous menu and a gorgeous country retreat all in one. Bliss!

2. Bling baby bling! A shiny bauble will put the sparkle back in anyone’s eyes… and it’s true that nothing quite says “I love you forever” like a timeless treasure. We love Alison Blain’s divine range. You are also guaranteed to find something amazing at Hanne Andersen or Partridge Jewellers. And as another idea, some very different yet beautiful jewellery items can be snapped up instore at Sophie Voon.

 

3. You’re my Candy girl – Oh my Goodness, where do we start? The options are endless, simple and totally appropriate. Cupcakes in Miramar offer edible happiness in the form of artistically designed cupcakes that are oh so pretty and taste “wow”!
 
Janus Bakkerij is another one of those amazing places, where you can purchase gorgeous cakes or a wealth of other fare to surprise your Mummy, or you could take her there and let her choose herself! Many of you were rather taken with the personalized Mr and Mrs cookies on a stick we had to give away at our stand at the Wedding Show. The geniuses behind such great ideas are none other than Decorada. We love!

4. Blooming marvellous – If it’s gorgeous flowers you are after, we have a radar more finely tuned than a honey bee. Flowers on Featherston can create whatever design and style you are after and will go the extra mile to ensure you are thrilled with the results. Tons of options to be found online too. We are also loving Bunches – a tried and true Wellington staple – check them out! The creative, classic and extremely tasteful flowers are beyond chic.

5. Pamper – Who doesn’t like feeling a million bucks after having a bit of “shooshing” done? Salute Hair and Day Spa is the epitome of well deserved luxury. With so many treatments available, there is bound to be something perfect on the menu. And one more little secret we will let you in on… sweeping the beauty world by storm are Lush Lashes – the lash extensions that look so real, yet oh so glamorous! Nothing beats waking up looking made up!

 
Whatever you do, however you celebrate, remember to treasure the moments! And don’t forget, a simple breakfast in bed might be all it takes to make your Mum feel extra loved on her special day.
 
Happy Mother’s Day from the team at the Wellington Wedding Show and Mr and Mrs magazine. Xoxox

“No language can express the power, beauty and heroism of a mother’s love.” -Edwin Chapin

by Johanna Osborne.

I want to let you in on a little secret. There’s something amazingly divine that I simply must share with you – after all, us girls are all part of the sisterhood of women who tell each other about beauty tips, shopping ideas and must-have items. So for those who haven’t already heard, let me introduce For Every Minute.

For Every Minute is the baby of local it-girls Faye Lowe and Kenzy Cheeseman, who have put their heart and soul into creating what can only be described as the most divine luxury sleep and lounge wear on the market. Crafted with exceptional skill and meticulous attention to detail, the jewel-toned pieces are not only supremely comfortable, but simply gorgeous. We think these items would be perfect for a wedding night and honeymoon, as well as gifts to or from bridesmaids. Nothing beats the feeling of silk against your skin, and these luxurious garments are the kind you would treasure a long, long time.

However, you don’t have to be getting married to enjoy a camisole, chemise, robe or pyjama set. Mums, and mums-to-be are high on the list of the deserving – just in time for Mother’s Day! Any one of the many different gorgeous items on offer would make an ideal gift. And you should see the packaging – For Every Minute takes care of it all!

Check out the beautiful range online or at Harry’s Boutique in Seatoun.