By Amy Foulkes

Winter is drawing to a close and with that comes springtime and wedding season. Planning a wedding for this time of year can be such fun, with an abundance of stunning venues and the opportunity for a truly memorable and photogenic day. If you’re struggling to find some inspiration for your spring wedding or need some pointers for enjoying your big day look no further. Here are our tips and ideas for styling and planning a springtime wedding.

Pick a venue that shows of the season but is weather proof

Spring is such a beautiful time of year with the ideal aesthetic for outdoor weddings. All around New Zealand there are stunning garden venues which will be at the height of their potential with masses of greenery, bulbs and roses in flower. If you are choosing an outdoor venue for this time of year do be aware that Spring is also when weather can be unpredictable. Make sure you book an understanding venue with good managers and a backup wet weather option. There are a wide variety of options; From gardens with covered areas, like The Brigham and Allely Estate, to venues with indoor options like St Margaret’s café and gardens. Rotorua is also home to the gorgeous Redwoods which offer a covered ‘sail’ venue and marquees. Engaged couples can also consider one of the many vineyards around Auckland, Hawkes Bay and Marlborough regions for spring vows by the vines

Make use of seasonal blooms

Spring is prime time for some of the most sought after bridal florals. There’s something for every palette, from soft, pale shades to vivid saturated tones. Talk to your florist about incorporating spring specialty flowers like freesias and sweet peas, for scent and anemones and peonies for a luscious splash of colour. Don’t feel constrained to simple bouquets and centrepieces either. Embrace flower crowns, corsages and quirky arrangements, enjoying flowers in the season they are most bountiful.

Embrace seasonally inspired bridesmaid looks

Dressing bridesmaids for a spring ceremony can be a real joy. If you’re a lover of neutral tones enhance the softness of the season with pale ivories, blushes, taupes and golds. When styling for the season another great look for bridesmaids is pastels, or for those brides after something out of the ordinary, take your girls to a whimsical level by embracing fun, floral patterns.

Pick a good photographer and videographer

Capturing the beauty of your spring wedding is a must. A video is a way to frame all that emotion and imagery. From the palette, flowers and loving details to the scenic spots at golden hour. You’ll get to see your dress in motion, the loving look from your groom and re-watch all those styling details you poured hours into in the weeks and before your wedding. Make sure you have vendors you trust to capture the spirit and memories of your big day. Look for photographers and videographers with a style that will gel with your festivities. It’s essential to pick the right people behind the camera for you and the style of your day. Each videographer and photographer has a different style and like the other aspects of your wedding it’s important to pick someone that captures memories and emotions in a way that resonates with you and your partner.

When shopping for a wedding dress a bride looks for one that fits her personal style and suits her. This is no different for wedding vendors. When researching videographers and photographers, check out their websites and social media to see previous weddings and make sure photographers can create a good quantity of photos while retaining the look you’re going for. When you meet vendors in person to discuss plans, show them examples of what you like (Pinterest boards are great for sharing). That way you can give them an idea of what you are looking for to get the best possible pictures and videos for your day. Make the most of the amazing spring colours and atmosphere in your photos. See if there are nearby photogenic spots with roses, bulbs or cherry blossoms. Also, bear in mind, with spring there can also be rain. Don’t forget to be prepared with cute gumboots and umbrellas if your photo sessions get a bit rainy.

Bring life to your décor

Don’t be afraid to embrace creativity when it comes to wedding décor. Bring stunning theming to your day with seasonal flowers, pastels, ribbons and anything that signals the newness of spring. Try statement pieces like spring archways with linens and hanging greenery or ask your florist for a backdrop of hanging mason jars full of peonies or gypsophila. For the ultimate garden wedding décor why not have a May pole or a bunting tent for extra ‘Instagram-ability’.

Plan a reception with all the ‘good vibes’

Don’t feel bound to a formal black tie reception if you want to embrace something more colourful and festive. Why not try an English Country themed affair in a marquee with garlands, bunting and informal food? For those having a daytime reception, blankets and baskets can be given to guests to spread out on the lawn and enjoy a leisurely feast. Signature cocktails are also a fun way to personalise and sprig up your reception, with delicious spring ingredients like camomile and fresh fruit.

Beauty in the details

Get some inspiration to infuse your day with stunning spring inspired details. Consider season appropriate escort cards and place settings like origami birds or floral printed cards. Have fun with your wedding invites. Whether you D.I.Y. your wedding stationary or get it ordered there are a lot of beautiful looks than can be used, from watercolour pastel patters to textured pastel card with metallic lettering. For the most photographed detail of your day consider a statement cake with spring pastel icing or maybe a tower of cupcakes to tie the spring theme-ing together.

What seasonal looks are you loving as you plan your wedding? What colours and themes are striking your fancy? Comment below on what your favourite spring wedding looks are. We’d love to hear from you.