The blog
Advice & journal
Two ways to read. Advice answers the practical questions couples ask me most. The journal is where I write about the moments behind the weddings — quieter, more personal, in my own words.
Advice
Straight answers to the questions couples ask
What It Really Costs to Elope in New Zealand
A realistic look at the true cost of a New Zealand elopement — the typical range, the hidden extras, and where your money matters most.
Elopement Guest Limits: Why I Keep Weddings Small
Why my elopements are capped at six people in total, and how that limit protects the places, the logistics and the feeling of your day.
Do You Need an Apostille for Your New Zealand Marriage Certificate?
A plain-English guide to apostilles and authentications for New Zealand marriage certificates — who needs one, when, and how I arrange it.
How Long Does It Take to Get Married in New Zealand?
The real timeline for a New Zealand wedding — licence processing, validity, and how quickly an elopement can actually come together.
What Happens After You Get Married in New Zealand?
The paperwork side of your wedding day, start to finish — what you sign, what happens next, and what arrives in your letterbox at home.
Who Plans Your New Zealand Elopement with New Zealand Dream Weddings?
Every elopement is personally planned by Donna from first enquiry to vows — one planner, no handoffs.
Journal · Heart & Truth
Reflections from nearly thirty years beside couples
From Fax Machines to Instagram: How New Zealand Weddings Have Changed Since I Started in 1999
From Skype calls and simple websites to social media, AI and modern technology, the wedding industry has changed dramatically since I started in 1999.
You Don’t Need a Helicopter to Have an Epic Elopement
Not every epic elopement needs a helicopter. Some of the most unforgettable wedding days happen quietly beside lakes, mountains, and still water.
What Years of Wedding Planning Quietly Teach You
A personal reflection from a wedding planner on quiet confidence, experience, and what nearly 30 years beside couples has quietly taught me.
Why Lake Tekapo Is Beautiful for Elopements in New Zealand All Year Round
A personal reflection on why Lake Tekapo remains one of New Zealand’s most breathtaking elopement locations year-round – from turquoise water and winter snow…
When Someone Important Isn’t There on Your Elopement Day
Some couples feel a quiet absence on their elopement day when someone important cannot be there beside them.
Nearly 30 Years Later, I’m Still Addicted to Love Stories
Sometimes people assume that after nearly 30 years of planning weddings, the excitement must fade a little. But it hasn’t.
With love, from New Zealand
Let’s plan your New Zealand wedding
Tell me your story and what you have in mind. I’ll personally guide you every step of the way — the same as I have for couples from around the world since 1999.
Elope With Us