How do I style Church Road Winery?

Vicki, Napier

Lisa Robertson answers...

Talented wedding planner and stylist Lisa Robertson has recently been to Church Road Winery. She shares with you some expert tips to make this beautiful venue your own.

Close your eyes and dare to dream...the smell of the oak barrels and the sun setting on the hills. This is a truly beautiful venue where you can transport yourself anywhere in the world. Think of Tuscany. Think of the romance, elegance and picturesque setting of rolling hills and vineyards.

Church Road Winery is a stunning venue with natural beauty and an air of history.  With over 100 years of winemaking experience, it is the oldest winery in the Hawkes Bay - the character of which should be complimented with elegant and romantic styling.

Most importantly, make it your own; the theme and design of your wedding is a reflection of your relationship and your personalities.

Colours: Take inspiration from your surroundings and work with the natural colours of the landscape. Think about wine and grape colouring - purple and green grapes, the burgundy tones of red wine, the gold of champagne and the light and pale pinks of rose - all of which each look beautiful against accents of light and dark green. Then there is also the rustic and exposed timber that compliments the colours in the barrels - utilising browns, gold and tea colours to accent these deeper tones.

Centrepieces: Make the most of the high ceilings by using candelabras, vases filled with candles, rose petals scattered on the tables, fairy lights and draped fabric. Alternatively, take inspiration from the vineyards and incorporate grapes and/or vine leaves into your centrepieces.

Get creative when it comes to your place cards - consider putting your guest name cards into corks, cut down the centre. Use embossing or accents of grapes and vine leaves in your stationery, menus, place cards and seating plans. If you are considering table favours, tie your guests' names to wine stoppers or have chocolates made in the mould of grapes.

Budget will naturally play a part in your decisions, so here are some ideas you may like to consider to keep the costs down.

Be creative by utilising vine leaves - place them in vases or wrap them around candelabras with tea lights. If you have set aside an allocation for flowers, blend soft and natural colours...think cream roses with hints of melon, tea and pale greenery, which look gorgeous in vases or thread through and around your candelabras. Another cost effective way to decorate your tables is with a fabric runner through the middle of your table, adorned with tea lights and rose petals. Fairy lights always add another dimension, with a simple backdrop of organza behind the bridal table to light up the room.

Have fun and enjoy your wedding...it's a great venue!