It’s been 15 years since I first started weddings and events here at Oreti and it’s been an experience
to do each and every one- I actually have lost count on how many we have done. I’ve also been
privileged to have organized some of my best friend’s big days and my brother’s. I’ve also made
many friends along the way. True some are more memorable then others due to their unqiue
touches or over the top ideas but seeing everyone’s ideas come to reality is one of my favorite
things about my business.
I remember the first wedding at Oreti we had booked all those years ago, pushing the builders to
push on so the venue would be ready for our first Mr & Mrs. Filling the fridges the night before,
putting together and dressing the tables – It was simple but elegant.
We often recount the bride’s parents visiting the Tuesday before- the carpet was going down and
we did lunch for them on the terrace – The Bride’s father took my dad aside and said rather
panicked “My daughter is getting married in a few days will you be ready?” – Dad confidently replied
“of course”  Dad was the first person he thanked in his speech and the rest shall we say is history.
The most important part of the day is the ceremony and most venues have a chapel – Oreti had “The
old tree” and its symbolism to our couples varied -Most saw its strength and endurance over many
years, and many like me were saddened when it quietly slipped down the bank one night after
watching so many happy occasions, it obviously felt its job was done.
The silver lining was the opening of the expansive view! The Oreti lawn as we now try to refer to it
captures the essence of what Oreti is about Amazing Views, serenity and real NZ.
I love how many couples choose to continue some traditions in their weddings but when it comes to
vows many are personalized, humorous and heartfelt. A couple disappointingly have been what I call
bad taste but each to their own. I have heard so many but many still bring a tear to my eye at how
sincere and in-love some of my couple are. Some are a bit cheesy yes but seeing some blokes really
open up in the moment is a beautiful thing.
We are privileged to work with some of the best celebrants and photographers in the business
regularly and know that these experienced people compliment what we do. I’ve seen some
interesting rituals, such as hand fastening, sand ceremonies and heard some beautiful readings
including a personal favorite the blessing of the hands. Probably 90% of the weddings we do have no
religious element to them, but quite symbolic when the family priest travels to Oreti for the
occasion.
Receptions, food and the party all in one place make it a night to remember- The Oreti Venue is
rustic and romantic and is the perfect setting to have a fairly -tale reception- Our treasure trove of a
store room has the bones to make any wedding Extra-Ordinary. The food, I’m a complete foodie and
currently moon lighting as the chef – Our menus have varied from the extravagant to the nice but
simple and I love tailor making menus to suit especially those that want something different.
Oreti works well from start to finish for a wedding with onsite ceremonies, reception and
accommodation. Being a complete destination wedding venue Oreti is the perfect place to say I DO!