Founded with a passion for blending natural beauty with seamless event planning, My Waiheke has quickly become synonymous with elegance, professionalism, and unparalleled service. The team, led by Sophia Hoadley, brings years of experience in the wedding and event industry, ensuring every detail of your special day is meticulously planned and flawlessly executed.
We asked Sophia for her top tips to planning a successful Waiheke wedding!

"Planning an island wedding on Waiheke Island can be a magical experience, but it requires careful consideration and preparation to ensure everything goes smoothly. Here are my top 5 tips for planning an island wedding on Waiheke"

Start Early and Secure Your Venue: Waiheke Island is a popular destination for weddings, especially during peak seasons. Start planning and booking your venue well in advance to secure your desired location. Whether you prefer a stunning vineyard or a charming estate, early booking ensures availability and peace of mind.

Consider Accommodation for Guests: Since Waiheke Island is a short ferry ride from Auckland, many guests may choose to stay overnight or for the weekend. Ensure there are suitable accommodation options available for your guests, ranging from boutique hotels and holiday rentals and Airbnb’s. Providing accommodation recommendations in two of the main areas, Oneroa and Onetangi, will help streamline your guest transfers on the day, and will also simplify planning for your guests.

Plan Transportation Logistics: Transportation logistics are crucial when planning an island wedding. Coordinate transportation options for your guests, such as arranging shuttle services from the ferry terminal to the venue(s) and back. Additionally, consider logistics for vendors, ensuring they have easy access to the venue(s) for setup and breakdown.

Embrace the Island Vibe: Waiheke Island offers a unique blend of natural beauty and relaxed charm. Embrace the island vibe by incorporating local elements into your wedding, such as Waiheke wines, fresh local products like Honey, Oysters and Olive Oil. 

Prepare for Weather Variability: While Waiheke Island enjoys a mild coastal climate, weather conditions can be unpredictable. Have a backup plan in case of inclement weather, whether it's a covered ceremony area or a tented reception. Work closely with your venue and vendors to ensure flexibility and preparedness for any weather scenario.

By following these tips and working closely with local vendors and planners, you can create a memorable island wedding on Waiheke that reflects your style and ensures a stress-free celebration for you and your guests.
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Sophia Hoadley
Founder & Creative Director
My Waiheke