The Great Debate: Perth or Auckland?

Having our wedding here in Perth instead of at home in New Zealand was not a decision that my fiancé and I took lightly. We moved here 18 months ago in search of a different lifestyle and to spend some time with my Dad and brothers. I left behind the rest of my family, including my Mum in Auckland and my beloved left everyone he knew to join me – lucky, I know. In only a matter of weeks, we fell in love with the alfresco way of life, the vibrancy created by the festivals and events, and of course the brilliant weather that makes it all possible.

There were many discussions and long lists of pros and cons comparing Perth and New Zealand. We were concerned that if we held our wedding in Perth no one would be able to make the trip. On the other hand, trying to organise venues and suppliers in another country was proving very stressful. I have to admit that I have a little trouble delegating or as I prefer to say, I am a very hands on organiser.

We talked to our parents, extended family and friends ultimately we realised that the most important people would make the effort and join us in Perth to celebrate. Our Save the Date e-cards have been sent to our overseas guests and most people have responded positively. In fact, many of them were so excited to have an excuse for a holiday that in the end our decision was easy.

I have shed a few tears when a couple of important people said they probably would not make it. However, I realised that I need to be prepared for a little disappointment if I am to have my wedding so far away. It is simply not reasonable to expect everyone to be able to afford the extra cost and time off work. Nevertheless you can make it easier for them; here are a couple of tips:

Have your ceremony and reception at the same venue.

If you decide to have your reception an hour’s drive from your ceremony, your out-of-town guests will possibly have to hire cars and drive unfamiliar roads. It would be much easier for them and yourself, if you can find a venue you love that can work for your entire day. You will find your guests are more relaxed and therefore your day will be much more enjoyable.

Negotiate a great accommodation rate for group bookings.

If you can organise your friends and family early enough then you might be able to get a great accommodation rate based on a large group booking. Shop around a little and once you decide you can include a card in your invitations to tell people how to book. In addition, if you have your wedding at a venue that also has accommodation the function rates can be very competitive.

The excitement is now brewing as everyone knows the date and our planning is well underway. We are going to show our guests why we fell in love with Perth and what our new life is like, so they understand our decision to tie the knot here. It is a great opportunity to organise an amazing holiday for our loved ones, celebrating for a few weeks instead of just one day.
Have you had to choose between two cities?