Marry Now, Party Later

Marry Now, Party Later

In recent years, the phrase “Marry Now, Party Later” has become a rallying cry for couples eager to tie the knot without delay, yet unwilling to forgo a grand celebration. This trend, driven by both necessity and choice, has redefined the traditional wedding timeline, offering a blend of intimacy and anticipation that resonates with modern couples.

A bride and groom smiling together beside the sea

The Appeal of Marry Now, Party Later

The “Marry Now, Party Later” approach appeals to couples for several reasons:

A couple holding hands during their coastal wedding ceremony in black and white

Flexibility in Timing: Life doesn’t always align with our plans. Whether due to global events, personal circumstances, or simply a desire to be married sooner, many couples choose to exchange vows now and save the larger celebration for a later date.

Intimacy of Elopements and Micro Weddings: For many, the idea of an intimate ceremony is appealing. Fewer guests allow the couple to focus on the significance of the day without the pressures of hosting a large event. The immediate circle of family and friends present makes the moment even more special and personal.

A couple exchanging vows on the coast at Port Willunga
A couple exchanging rings beside the sea in black and white

Financial Benefits: Splitting the wedding into two events can ease financial pressures. Couples can have a modest ceremony now and save up for a more extravagant celebration when they’re ready.

Creative Freedom: With the pressure of a traditional timeline removed, couples have the freedom to plan a celebration that truly reflects their personalities. The party can be held at a unique venue, incorporate new trends, or even be a themed event that might not have been possible under traditional wedding constraints.

A wedding couple smiling at each other beside the sea

Planning a Marry Now, Party Later Wedding

If this approach suits you, start with these practical steps:

A small cliffside wedding ceremony in black and white

Choose the ceremony style: You might prefer a legals-only ceremony, an elopement or a micro wedding with a small group. Compare the KISS Package options and choose the services that suit your plans.

Communicate with Your Guests: Let your loved ones know your plan. Send out announcements for your “Marry Now” event and provide a “Save the Date” for the upcoming party. This way, they can look forward to celebrating with you later.

A bride and groom smiling together beside the sea
A wedding couple watching the sunset from the beach

Capture the Moment: Hire a photographer or videographer to document your intimate ceremony. These memories will be a great addition to the larger celebration later on.

Plan the Party with Intention: When the time comes to plan your celebration, think about what you want it to represent. Whether it’s a casual gathering or a grand affair, ensure it complements the journey you’ve been on as a couple.

A wedding couple walking along the wet sand beneath coastal cliffs
Bride and groom walking along the sand at Port Willunga

The Emotional Impact

One of the most beautiful aspects of the “Marry Now, Party Later” trend is the opportunity for couples to reflect on their journey between the two events. By the time the celebration rolls around, the couple has had time to deepen their bond and share their married life with family and friends. The party becomes not just a celebration of the wedding day, but of the marriage itself.

Marrying now and celebrating later lets you separate the ceremony from the party. Agree on what you want from each part, including who will attend and what you are comfortable spending.

The party can always wait.

A couple celebrating with a bottle beside the coast

Explore our elopement & micro wedding packages and preferred suppliers, or ask us about the services you need for your ceremony. You can make separate plans for a later celebration.

Backup Plans for Outdoor Ceremonies in Public Spaces

Backup Plans for Outdoor Ceremonies in Public Spaces

Planning for the Unexpected:

An outdoor wedding at Kuitpo Forest or Port Willunga Beach needs a workable backup plan. Decide what you will do if it rains, becomes too hot or windy, or the location closes, and make sure your guests and suppliers know the plan.

A small indoor wedding ceremony at Thorngrove Manor

Thorngrove Manor Elopement, Adelaide Hills

Why You Need a Backup Plan

Public spaces are not equipped with the same amenities as traditional venues. While they offer natural beauty and charm, they lack the infrastructure to protect against inclement weather. Here’s why having a backup plan is crucial:

  1. Weather Variability: Rain, wind, and extreme temperatures can all pose challenges to an outdoor ceremony.
  2. Guest Comfort: Ensuring the comfort of your guests is essential, and bad weather can significantly impact their experience.
  3. Logistical Concerns: Public spaces often don’t provide the logistical support needed for sudden changes in the event setting.

A wedding couple standing on an ocean-view accommodation deck

Bed & Breakfast Weddings. Advice & Tips

Crafting the Perfect Backup Plan

A well-thought-out backup plan will give you peace of mind and ensure your wedding day is beautiful, regardless of the weather. Here are some strategies to consider:

  1. Assess the Guest Count:
    • Small Gatherings: If your wedding is intimate and involves a small number of guests, consider booking a local bed and breakfast (B&B) as a backup. Many B&Bs offer charming, cozy environments that can easily accommodate a small ceremony.
    • Larger Gatherings: For more significant events, look into renting a nearby community hall. These spaces are often affordable and can be decorated to match your wedding theme.
  2. Utilise Nearby Shelters:
    • For beach weddings, investigate the availability of beach shelters. These structures can provide immediate cover in case of sudden rain or strong winds.
  3. Reception Venues:
    • If you have a separate reception venue, check if it can be arranged to host the ceremony in case of bad weather. Many reception venues have flexible spaces that can be quickly adapted for a ceremony.
  4. Family Homes:
    • Consider using a family home as a backup location. If a family member lives close to your chosen public space, their home can provide a convenient and intimate setting.
  5. Timing and Season:
    • Plan your wedding date carefully. Opting for a summer date can reduce the likelihood of rain, though be mindful of extreme heat. Spring and autumn can offer milder weather but come with their own risks.
  6. Rental Tents:
    • Renting a tent can be a great way to keep the outdoor feel while providing shelter. Many rental companies offer elegant tents that can be set up in various public spaces.

A wedding couple sitting together beside their bouquet and marriage register

Adelaide, South Australian Wedding Photographer Gallery

The Advantages of Elopements and Micro Weddings

This is why elopements and micro-weddings are great options. Their smaller scale makes it much easier to quickly change plans if needed and offers more flexibility in choosing backup locations. With fewer guests, relocating to an indoor setting or adapting your ceremony on the fly becomes a breeze, ensuring your special day remains stress-free and enjoyable.

Communicating the Plan

Make sure your guests are aware of the backup plan. Include details on your wedding website or in your invitations about what to expect if the weather changes. Clear communication will ensure everyone knows where to go and what to do, reducing stress on the big day.

Final Thoughts

While the allure of an outdoor wedding in a public space is undeniable, being prepared for any weather scenario is essential. By having a well-thought-out backup plan, you can relax and enjoy your special day, knowing that you’ve covered all bases. Whether the sun is shining or the rain is pouring, your wedding day will be memorable and beautiful.

– Glenn & The KISS team x

 

Wedding Seating Tips

Wedding Seating Tips

A couple holding hands during their wedding ceremony

Choosing Your Side: A Guide to Outdoor Wedding Seating

Bride on the right or left?

what if two brides or two grooms? 

Firstly, let’s talk about the wind.

For an outdoor ceremony, consider the wind before choosing which side to stand on.

Yes, that breeze can be a real game-changer. If you’ve been to an outdoor wedding, you know the struggle of keeping your hair in place while the wind decides to do its thing. To avoid having your veil in your face or blocking your guests’ view, think about the wind direction when choosing where to stand.

The fix? Position the person with the longest hair so they’re facing into the wind. It might take a little planning and tweaking of the setup, but it’s worth it to keep everything looking and feeling just right on your big day.

Guests watching two grooms beneath an outdoor wedding arbour

Choosing wedding ceremony seating

Now, let’s talk about personal preference.

While the wind direction is crucial for practical reasons, there’s also the matter of personal comfort and preference. Do you have a “good side” that you prefer to be photographed from? Or perhaps you have a particular angle that makes you feel most confident? Whatever the case may be, don’t be afraid to take your personal preferences into account when choosing your side at the ceremony. It’s your special day, and you deserve to feel comfortable and radiant from every angle.

Think about your hairstyle and any hair accessories when choosing a side. Your photographer can help you find a position that shows them clearly and keeps hair out of your face.

Last but certainly not least, let’s talk about family.

Traditionally, your family sits on your side, but consider giving them a prime spot opposite you and your partner so they can see your faces clearly during the ceremony. This way, you can see their faces and they can see yours—not just the back of your head. Their smiles, tears, and expressions of joy will add an extra layer of love and warmth to the occasion.

For same-sex couples.

If you are both walking in, or using a different entrance, plan where each of you will stand and what your families will be able to see. Walk through the arrangement with your celebrant before guests arrive.

Check the wind, light, hairstyle and your families’ view when planning where to stand. A quick walk-through with your celebrant and photographer can help you choose a comfortable arrangement.

KISS Package

Adelaide | South Australia

 

Adelaide Wedding Weather Seasons

Adelaide Wedding Weather Seasons

The ideal Adelaide wedding season weather, with our guide for your special day.

What season will you choose?

A variety of Adelaide Wedding Weather Seasons offers couples a myriad of picturesque settings and romantic backdrops. Choosing the perfect time of year for your wedding can greatly enhance your experience and create lasting memories.

From the balmy days of summer to the crisp air of winter, each season in Adelaide brings its own unique charm and considerations for couples seeking to tie the knot in an intimate ceremony. Let’s explore the advantages and considerations of eloping in Adelaide throughout the seasons.

Spring: Blooms and Mild Weather:

Springtime in Adelaide, spanning from September to November,

Spring brings flowers and generally milder weather to Adelaide’s parks and gardens. It can suit an outdoor elopement, but keep a backup plan for rain and changing temperatures.

From the iconic Adelaide Botanic Garden to the serene Mount Lofty Botanic Garden, couples are spoiled for choice when it comes to selecting a picturesque venue for their springtime elopement. Additionally, the comfortable temperatures during spring ensure that outdoor ceremonies are enjoyable for both the couple and their guests.

Summer: Sun-Kissed Celebrations

Summer, from December to February,

Summer brings long days and warm evenings. For a beach elopement, plan around the heat, shade and the comfort of your guests.

Glenelg Beach and Port Willunga are two coastal options to explore. Check the exact ceremony position, access and booking conditions before settling on a location.

However, couples should be mindful of the potential for high temperatures during the peak of summer and plan accordingly, opting for morning or late afternoon ceremonies to avoid the heat.

Wine barrel and flowers beside a vineyard

Vineyard wedding | Hope Forest, South Australia 

Autumn: cooler days and changing leaves

Autumn, spanning from March to May,

Autumn colour gives Adelaide’s parks and gardens a different look. Reds, oranges and yellows can work well for photos, while the earlier sunset is worth considering when choosing a ceremony time.

Couples can choose from iconic locations such as Adelaide’s Elder Park or venture to the Adelaide Hills, where vineyards adorned with golden leaves offer a picturesque setting for intimate ceremonies. Additionally, the mild weather during autumn ensures that outdoor celebrations are comfortable for all involved.

Winter: Intimate Indoor Ceremonies

Winter, from June to August,

The cozy ambience of indoor venues for their elopements in Adelaide. While outdoor ceremonies may be less common during the cooler months, winter offers the opportunity for intimate celebrations in charming indoor settings. From historic churches to boutique wineries and elegant restaurants, couples can find the perfect venue to exchange vows and celebrate with their closest loved ones.

Additionally, winter in Adelaide brings with it the allure of seasonal attractions such as the Adelaide Cabaret Festival and the Winter Reds Weekend in the Adelaide Hills, providing couples with unique opportunities to incorporate local culture into their elopement celebrations.

A couple sitting outside CABN Nala among pine trees

Cabn Tiny House | Kuitpo Forest

In conclusion,

You can plan an Adelaide elopement in any season. Choose the setting and time of day around the weather you are comfortable with, and have a practical alternative for an outdoor ceremony.

Adelaide has something to offer every couple seeking to exchange vows in a memorable and meaningful way. Ultimately, the best time of year to elope in Adelaide is a matter of personal preference, with each season presenting its unique charms and opportunities for creating lasting memories.

Wildside Retreat | Kangaroo Island, South Australia

Michaela made the ceremony planning and paperwork a breeze, even all the way from Canada! From our initial video chats to meeting her in person once we arrived, she made it fun! Providing samples and examples for our ceremony and helping us tailor it to our taste. It was everything we could have dreamed of!

MARRIED COUPLE – Isabelle & Daniel

Michaela was an absolute treasure! Michaela was so easy to work with and understanding of what we wanted on our special day. The communication in the lead up to our wedding day was perfect and she was happy to match our schedules for meetings. Michaela performed so well on the day, being a ray of sunshine

Emily & Tam

Why You Don’t Need to Give a Speech at Your Wedding

Why You Don’t Need to Give a Speech at Your Wedding

Your wedding day is a celebration of a beautiful journey together. Traditionally, weddings involve a series of rituals, ceremonies, and, of course, speeches. However, in this modern era where couples are rewriting the rules and making their own traditions, the idea of giving a speech at your wedding is no longer a mandatory requirement.

Here’s why saying “No” to a wedding speech might be the right choice for you.

Authenticity Over Formality:

Weddings often come with a set of expectations, and giving a speech has become one of those expected traditions. However, not everyone feels comfortable expressing their emotions in front of a crowd. Insisting on a wedding speech just for the sake of tradition can lead to a lack of authenticity. Your wedding day is about you and your partner, and the focus should be on celebrating your love in a way that feels genuine to both of you.

Stress-Free Celebrations:

Planning a wedding can be a stressful experience, and the pressure to deliver a perfect speech on top of everything else can be overwhelming. By choosing not to give a speech, you can alleviate unnecessary stress and focus on enjoying the moment. Your wedding day should be a joyful celebration, not a nerve-wracking performance.

 

Say “No” to tradition if it doesn’t resonate with you, and embrace the freedom to create a wedding day that is uniquely yours.

 

A wedding couple sitting together indoors beside their bouquet

Personalise Your Celebration:

Every couple is unique, and so is their love story. Instead of conforming to traditional norms, take this opportunity to personalize your wedding celebration. Whether it’s through personalized vows exchanged privately or a heartfelt letter to your partner, there are countless ways to express your love without adhering to the conventional wedding speech.

Focus on the Moment:

The whirlwind of emotions on your wedding day can make it challenging to deliver a speech with the clarity and composure it deserves. By choosing not to give a speech, you free yourself from the expectation of performing on command. This allows you to be fully present in the moment, savouring the love and joy surrounding you without the pressure of public speaking.

You do not have to give a reception speech. If you would prefer another way to thank people or share your feelings, consider a short note, a private conversation or asking someone else to speak.

Bed & Breakfast Weddings: Top Tips, Do’s & Don’ts

Bed & Breakfast Weddings: Top Tips, Do’s & Don’ts

A wedding couple on an ocean-view deck on Kangaroo Island
Bedroom overlooking the ocean at Wild Side Retreat
Covered timber deck overlooking the ocean at Wild Side Retreat
Bright accommodation hallway with timber flooring

A bed and breakfast can work well for a small wedding, but an accommodation booking does not automatically allow a ceremony or extra visitors. This guide covers the questions to ask the owner and how KISS services can fit into your plans.

A small wedding ceremony on the deck at Wild Side Ocean Retreat

Top 10 Tips for Booking a Bed & Breakfast for Your Wedding:

1. Early Planning:

To secure your desired wedding date, it is important to start your wedding preparations well in advance. Early planning ensures that you have the flexibility to choose from the best available options and reduces the chances of scheduling conflicts.

2. On-Site Visit:

While scheduling a personal visit to the bed and breakfast to assess if it’s ideal for you, please note that bed and breakfasts may not always accommodate visits. Most likely not possible, due to high demand in bookings or remote management. It’s advisable to inquire about visitation policies when making your initial inquiries.  

3. Intimate Guest List:

One of the advantages of a bed and breakfast wedding is the opportunity for an intimate gathering. These venues are tailor-made for smaller, close-knit weddings. Elopements, in particular, align perfectly with this style. However, if you plan to invite a larger group, we have alternative solutions to accommodate your needs.

4. Accommodation Check:

It’s essential to verify that the bed and breakfast can comfortably accommodate your guests, especially if they plan to stay on-site. Or explore nearby accommodation options as many popular locations offer a variety of choices to cater to your guests’ preferences.

5. Policy Review:

Familiarize yourself with the bed and breakfast’s policies concerning catering, decorations, and event duration. Clear communication and adherence to these policies are key to a smooth and enjoyable wedding day. Keep your guests and wedding suppliers informed about these policies to ensure a harmonious celebration.

6. Outdoor Options:

Weather permitting, consider utilizing outdoor spaces for your wedding ceremony. Look for locations with beautiful settings or charming gardens that can serve as a picturesque backdrop for your special day. Outdoor ceremonies can add a touch of natural beauty to your wedding.

7. Local Vendor Support:

Supporting local vendors for catering, flowers, hair & makeup is not only a great way to enhance your bed and breakfast wedding experience but also an opportunity to contribute to the local community. Research and collaborate with local businesses to make your wedding uniquely memorable.

8. Transportation Arrangements:

Organize transportation for your guests, especially if your chosen B&B is in a remote location. This ensures that your guests can comfortably reach the venue and return safely, contributing to a worry-free celebration.

9. Backup Plan:

Being prepared for unexpected weather or unforeseen circumstances is crucial. Many bed and breakfasts offer beautifully decorated indoor spaces that are perfect for intimate weddings, serving as an ideal backup option if the weather doesn’t cooperate or other unexpected challenges arise.

10. Styling:

Given that B&Bs are typically styled with charming interiors, consider incorporating this existing beauty into your wedding styling. Alternatively, opt for a simpler decor scheme that complements the venue’s ambiance. Our skilled stylist at KISS PACKAGE can assist in bringing your vision to life, whether it’s enhancing the existing charm or creating a bespoke atmosphere.

Small white wedding cake decorated with flowers
A couple walking away from a tiny cabin among pine trees

Do’s and Dont’s:

Embrace Intimacy:

Bed and breakfasts are uniquely suited for smaller, intimate weddings that prioritize close relationships and personal connections.

Respect the Property:

It’s essential to treat the bed and breakfast and its surroundings with care, showing respect to both the property itself and its neighboring community.

Clear Communication:

Keep the B&B owner informed about your guest numbers, suppliers, setup and timing. Confirm the agreed arrangements in writing.

Avoid Overcrowding:

Adhere to the bed and breakfast’s capacity limits to ensure the comfort of all guests and the overall success of your event.

Underestimate Planning:

Even for smaller weddings, comprehensive planning is indispensable. Enlisting our KISS services can alleviate stress and ensure a well-organized event.

Disrupt the Peace:

Keep in mind that bed and breakfasts often have nearby neighbors. Therefore, it’s crucial to avoid late-night noise disturbances and maintain a respectful atmosphere throughout the celebration.

 

 

KISS logo with the words Intimate celebration, big love
A newly married couple smiling together on a sofa

Why Choose Our KISS PACKAGE Micro Weddings & Elopements:

Our KISS PACKAGE is thoughtfully designed to cater specifically to bed and breakfast weddings and elopements, offering a range of unique advantages:

Tailored for Intimacy:

Our packages are designed for small weddings, with the services and guest arrangements confirmed for your booking.

Effortless Planning:

We coordinate the services included in your KISS booking. Agree on who is responsible for accommodation, venue hire and other suppliers so nothing is missed.

Places to consider

Explore the accommodation options below, then confirm that the owner permits your proposed ceremony, visitors and suppliers. The right choice will depend on your guest numbers and the way you want the day to run.

Privacy and Tranquility:

Elopements, a highlight of our packages, are exceptionally well-suited for bed and breakfast weddings. They enable you to bask in the serenity of the venue without disrupting nearby neighbors, ensuring an undisturbed and tranquil celebration.

Coastal retreat on a headland beneath a colourful sunset sky

“Kangaroo Island – Wild side Retreat “

We have the most amazing elopement package on the island, the photos don’t do it justice! You can click on the link below for full details. The true Destination Wedding to Kangaroo Island in South Australia.

 

A couple sitting outside CABN Nala among pine trees

“CABN Off-Grid Kuitpo Forest”

There are three CABN stays among the pines of Kuitpo Forest, less than an hour’s drive from Adelaide. Check current accommodation and wedding arrangements directly before booking.

Kuitpo Forest truly allows you to choose your own adventure. Enjoy numerous walking and biking trails, explore nearby wineries or try some forest bathing. Known in Japan as shinrin yoku, the simple method of being calm and quiet amongst trees, observing the nature around you while breathing deeply helps de-stress and boost health and wellbeing in a natural way.

Additional Recommendations:

If our list of KISS Bed & Breakfasts doesn’t perfectly align with your vision, consider these additional recommendations:

Rural Retreats:

For those seeking a more remote location with the option for late-night festivities, explore bed and breakfasts in rural areas. These settings can provide a unique backdrop for your wedding and offer the flexibility for nighttime celebrations.

Permission Matters:

If you plan to host late-night parties or events, ensure that you have the owner’s permission, especially in rural or secluded locations. Respecting the rules and guidelines of the venue is essential to maintaining a harmonious relationship with the property and its neighbors.

Before you book

Planning a bed and breakfast wedding offers a unique charm and intimacy that few other venues can match. By following our comprehensive tips and guidelines, exploring our KISS PACKAGE, and consistently respecting the property and its neighbors, you’ll create a memorable and harmonious celebration for your dream bed and breakfast wedding. Your special day awaits, filled with warmth, beauty, and cherished moments.