The journal
Heart & Truth
Honest reflections on nearly thirty years of planning elopements in New Zealand — the quiet moments, the real questions, and why I still plan for love. Less like a brochure, more like a journal.
Latest entry
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. As I recently found myself reviewing my own website and reflecting on the journey, I realised that while the tools continue to evolve, what couples are looking for has changed far less than we might think.
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.
The Moment You Realise a Big Wedding Isn’t Right for You
A quiet shift many couples experience – when a big wedding no longer feels right, and something simpler begins to feel like home.
There’s a quiet moment before everything begins
What a wedding day actually feels like – a calm, honest reflection from nearly 30 years of real wedding experience in New Zealand.
Standing Beneath Aoraki Mount Cook
Some places are beautiful, but others carry something deeper.
Professionalism Is What Protects You
Professionalism in the wedding industry is not just about presentation – it is about protection, accountability, and safeguarding your day from unnecessary…
What Nearly 30 Years in This Industry Has Taught Me
Nearly 30 years in the wedding industry has taught me that experience is not about trends – it is about perspective, preparation, and quiet steadiness.
Why Longevity Matters in the Wedding Industry
Longevity in the wedding industry is not about trends or visibility – it is about stability, regulatory knowledge, and reducing risk for couples.
Sitting with the Rain
Recovery has slowed me down enough to sit quietly with my thoughts.
Why I Plan Weddings the Way I Do
Wedding planning, for me, has never been about styling or spectacle.
Why I Chose a Certain Kind of Photographer
Over time, I’ve learned that the most meaningful photographs are often taken when no one is trying to create them.
The Day I Stopped Explaining Weddings
There comes a point where you stop explaining weddings – and start simply holding space for them.
When an Inquiry Arrives
When an inquiry arrives, I don’t see a booking – I see two people taking a quiet step toward something meaningful.
When Something Arrives Already Decided
This is about why I stepped away from working with wedding agents, and chose to work directly with couples instead.
Why Eloping Isn’t About Running Away (And Never Has Been)
Eloping isn’t about escaping or running away. It’s about choosing presence, intention, and a quieter way to begin a marriage.
It’s 2026 – and Some Things Still Matter
A wedding isn’t just a date in a calendar or a service on an invoice.
Why I Still Love Wedding Planning – and What Each Couple Means to Me
Why I still love planning weddings – Donna Dohi
Where My Ancestors Stand With Me
A reflection on heritage, memory, and the quiet presence of ancestors in the places we stand.
The Spaces Between Then and Now
Looking back through old wedding photographs reminded me why I began – not for perfection or profit, but for the quiet joy of capturing love as it truly is.
Why I Still Believe in Eloping for Love
Every so often, I still find myself missing the days behind the camera, the breeze, the sound of the helicopter, the quiet power of love.
The Beginning of Heart & Truth
Elopement Journal NZ has found its own voice – a quiet, heartfelt space where the real stories behind New Zealand elopements can breathe.
I Plan for Love
A poem from the heart about why I plan weddings, not for perfection, but for love, calm, and moments that stay.
Why New Zealand Is the World’s Most Magical Place to Elope
Discover why couples choose New Zealand for their elopement – wild beauty, effortless planning, and heartfelt celebrations with New Zealand Dream Weddings.
Why I Don’t Believe in “Perfect” Weddings Anymore
After nearly 30 years planning weddings, I’ve learned that perfection isn’t the goal, peace is. Real love isn’t polished; it’s alive.
The Day the Ocean Got Me
One of my funniest memories as a wedding planner, a beach, a couple in love, and one wave that reminded me nature always has the last word
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