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.

Adelaide Botanic Gardens Ceremony Sites

Adelaide Botanic Gardens Ceremony Sites

“Wedding Ceremony Site Ideas”

Botanic Gardens, Adelaide

Creating Your Dream Wedding with Our KISS Team in Adelaide

Adelaide Botanic Garden has a range of ceremony settings for elopements, micro weddings and larger celebrations. Compare the spaces, guest limits and booking conditions, then choose a spot that suits your ceremony and photos.

The KISS team brings together a planner, celebrant and photographer. We help you organise the ceremony, photography and agreed services, with the details confirmed before your wedding.

Parking and access vary with your chosen ceremony site. Confirm guest numbers, walking distances and arrival arrangements with the gardens and your suppliers before booking.

KISS Package Adelaide Botanic Gardens Ceremony locations
Summer House, Adelaide Botanic Gardens

1. Summer House

Choose from an intimate undercover ceremony in the historic rotunda or on one of the five lawn areas. It is a short walk to the North Terrace and other essential amenities.

Adelaide Botanic Gardens Ceremony Site : Cycad Collection

2. Cycads Collection

Under the shade of the Kauri Pine this lawn area gently slopes, allowing excellent vantage points for your guests. Looking out across the Main Lake, this popular location is close to the gates amenities, restaurant and kiosk.

Adelaide Botanic Gardens Ceremony Site: Palm House Lawns

3. Palm House Lawns

The large lawn foreground of the heritage listed Palm House accommodates large wedding parties. Located centrally within the gardens, the Palm House site is close to public amenities, restaurant and kiosk.

Adelaide Botanic Gardens Ceremony Site : Barbershop

4. The Barber Shop

This small rotunda suits intimate ceremonies. The wisteria arbours at the end of the Mediterranean Garden are also used for photographs.

Marriage register and certificate books on a garden table

5. International Rose Garden

When in flower, the manicured rows of colour provide a romantic setting in the International Rose Garden. Located near gates and amenities, the lawn area can accommodate large wedding parties or intimate gatherings. This is also where our Rose Garden Pavilion is situated, for marquee wedding receptions.

Adelaide Botanic Gardens Ceremony Site: Araucaria Avenue

6. Araucaria Avenue

The natural avenue created by the Araucaria (Hoop Pines) provides a spectacular framing around your ceremony. With a gentle slope, the site lends itself to a ceremony as well as being able to take in a panoramic view across the gardens.

Adelaide Botanic Gardens Ceremony Site : North Lodge Lawns

7. North Lodge Lawn

This ceremony area sits beside First Creek, with tree-lined lawns close to the Friends Gate on Plane Tree Drive. Confirm the route, amenities and access for your group when booking.

Adelaide Botanic Gardens Ceremony site : Economic Garden

8. Economic Garden

A display of plants of economic importance including those used for food, medicine, oils and dyes, as well as plants used in religious and cultural ceremonies. A beautiful manicured garden and wonderful backdrop of a quaint fountain.

Photos: Courtesy of Blanco Weddings & Scott Goh

Botanic KISS Package

Botanic KISS Package

Botanic KISS Package | Adelaide Botanic Gardens

The Botanic Bliss package combines celebrant services, professional photography and the permits listed in the package. It is designed for a garden wedding with the main ceremony services arranged together.

Package Includes:

  1. Celebrant Services:

    • Expert guidance and personalized ceremony scripting to tailor your vows and rituals to reflect your unique love story.
    • Officiating your wedding ceremony with warmth, professionalism, and attention to detail.
  2. Professional Photography:

    • A skilled photographer captures every heartfelt moment, from the exchanging of vows to the joyous celebrations.
    • Two hours of coverage from the ceremony. Additional coverage can be added.
    • High-resolution edited images presented in a digital format, ensuring timeless memories to cherish forever.
  3. Botanic Garden Permit:

    • Securing the necessary permit for hosting your wedding ceremony within the serene ambience of a botanical garden.
    • Access to designated areas for ceremony and photography sessions, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural splendour of the surroundings.
  4. Photography Permit:

    • Obtaining the required photography permit to capture your precious moments within the botanical garden’s picturesque landscapes.
    • Compliance with all regulations and guidelines to ensure a hassle-free photography experience while preserving the integrity of the garden’s environment.

 

Additional Options (Available Upon Request):

  • Ceremony Styling, including chairs, arbours, carpet runners & large umbrellas.
  • Customised floral arrangements to complement the natural beauty of the botanical garden.
  • Videography services to document your entire wedding journey in cinematic brilliance.
  • Assistance with venue selection, transportation arrangements, and other logistical aspects for a stress-free wedding planning process.

Choose the garden setting and the people you want there, then confirm the ceremony details and current inclusions with KISS.

Contact us with your date and guest numbers to discuss a Botanic KISS wedding package.

A wedding couple holding each other among flowers and trees

A wedding couple smiling together among flowers

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.