SAGE ADVICE

WORDS Joshua Brosnahan PHOTO Hannah Bird

Lucy Magill leads the way when it comes to offering a wealth of wedding resources in our city. After struggling with the organisation of her own nuptials, Lucy quickly recognised there was an opportunity to create ‘something incredible’ for the local wedding and event industry. Thus, her website Christchurch Weddings was born.

Christchurch Weddings is a ‘bible’ of resources, to build the foundations of a perfect day – personal blogs from Lucy herself, vendor contacts, planning, and even real wedding highlights.

Lucy was surprised to find there wasn’t a ‘one-stop shop’ for people planning their own wedding day, here in Christchurch.
“It seemed that every single region except Canterbury had its own wedding and events hub. “Through having this directory, I’m able to showcase the best of that talent and put my name behind the amazing local businesses.

Anyone who is planning a special occasion can rest assured they are getting the very best, from concept to completion.”

Lucy’s ‘day one vision’ was for a strong sense of community between both vendors and followers, and for her website to always stand honest and genuine in its offerings.

“The platform Christchurch Weddings provides encourages people to speak freely – this means we can have some amazing conversations and throw exciting ideas around.

“The rest of the website perfectly complements the directory to offer advice and inspire couples to plan the day of their dreams, focus on what’s most important to them, and keep the planning process as simple and care-free as possible.”

When prompted for her best tips on hosting a wedding to remember here in Ōtautahi, Lucy offered some sage advice.

“Firstly, think about what makes you the insanely amazing, unique couple you are! Think about your favourite things to do; activities, what you love to eat and indulge in and work into your day ways to incorporate a small handful of those things. If most of your guests are travelling, why don’t you create a little Christchurch city guide of some of your favourite digs for your guests to explore in their downtime?

“In terms of Christchurch specifically, we are lucky enough to have a constantly evolving city landscape, and quite often no two places look the same from one moment to another. This creates the perfect opportunity to freeze in time a place that no other couple gets to experience, but you. How perfect is this to reminisce on?”

Naturally, Lucy also works as a wedding planner, where she takes a holistic approach to weddings.

“I truly believe that the simpler you can make a wedding, the better. If working with a planner or coordinator isn’t for you, investing in a consultation with a planner can put you in place with a solid to-do list and is money well spent.

“You’ve chosen your vendors because you adore their work, so handover your brief, and a couple of images that speak to you, then step away to let them create the magic. Surprises on your wedding day are mind-blowing, and by handing over the reins, you’re setting yourself up for one heck of an occasion.

“It’s the most uplifting feeling, trust me!”

christchurchweddings.net