The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Wedding at Songbird

A Simple Guide to Planning a Special Wedding at Songbird Retreat, Mathesons Bay, Matakana, NZ.

Planning a wedding is no small task. At Songbird Wedding Retreat Venue, we make it easy for you!

Here’s your ultimate guide to planning a wedding at Songbird. But, email to ask us for the details in our booklet entitled Introduction to Your Wedding at Songbird Retreat, and know that we will support you with recommendations of recommended vendors and help as much as we can!

1. When to Get Married AT SONGBIRD

Matheson Bay enjoys mild, pleasant weather most of the year, making it a great location for outdoor weddings. However, there are a few things to consider when choosing the perfect time for your wedding:

• Summer (December to February): If you’re dreaming of a beach or outdoor wedding, summer is ideal. You’ll get the best weather, with warm temperatures and long daylight hours for sunset ceremonies and evening celebrations.

• Spring (September to November): Spring brings blooming flowers and lush greenery, making it a picturesque time to get married. However, it can also be unpredictable in terms of weather, so a marquee from one of our partner vendors will be wise.

• Autumn (March to May): Autumn offers cooler temperatures, vibrant foliage, and a calm, cozy atmosphere. The sun sets early and the atmospheric lighting is gorgeous!

• Winter (June to August): Winter can be a great option for couples who prefer a more intimate, relaxed vibe, perhaps in a marquee on our cocktail lawn, with a full floor (60 guests max) or in our green barn (10 guests max plus bride and groom).

2. Booking Local Vendors

Matakana and the surrounding areas are home to talented wedding vendors who can help bring your vision to life. Remember that at Songbird, we have Partner Vendors and Recommended Vendors who will support you to have a design-it-yourself wedding which embraces your very own unique style. Here are a few vendor categories you’ll want to lock in early:

• Caterers: Whether you’re planning a formal sit-down dinner or a BBQ or more casual food trucks, our partner vendors have plenty of catering options.

• Photographers: With such a scenic backdrop, finding a photographer who knows the best spots for stunning shots is key. We will provide you with a list of local photographers who are familiar with the area and will know exactly how to capture the natural beauty of Songbird Wedding Venue and Mathesons Bay in your wedding photos.

• Florists: Working with one of our recommended local florists ensures freshness and beauty for your special day.

3. Planning Activities for Guests

Matakana, Mathesons Bay and surrounds is not only a great spot for your wedding but also offers plenty of activities to keep your guests entertained before and after the big day:

• Wine Tasting: For wine-loving couples, organising a wine tasting tour at nearby Matakana wineries such as Brick Bay Wines & Sculpture Trail, Ascension Wine Estate, Heron’s Flight, Matakana Estate, or The Vintry is a fantastic pre- or post-wedding activity.

• Explore Goat Island: Just a short drive from Songbird, Goat Island Marine Reserve offers snorkeling, diving, and glass-bottom boat tours. Your guests can explore the underwater world and see New Zealand’s vibrant marine life up close.

• Beach Hopping: With beautiful beaches like Mathesons Bay, Omaha Beach and Pakiri Beach nearby, your guests can spend their days relaxing by the sea or exploring the scenic coastline.

4. Accommodating Your Guests

The Matheson Bay/Leigh area offers a variety of accommodation options for your guests, from boutique bed-and-breakfasts to holiday homes. If you have a large number of out-of-town guests, consider renting a group of holiday homes close to the wedding venue. Matakana, just 10 minutes away, also provides additional accommodation choices, including hotels and lodges. Email hello@songbirdretreat.co.nz to ask us about our recommended accommodation list.

5. Travel Logistics

Songbird Retreat Wedding Venue is easily accessible by car, located just over an hour north of Auckland, a little longer if there is a market on at Matakana. For guests flying in from other parts of New Zealand or abroad, Auckland Airport is the closest major airport. We have recommended taxi, shuttle and bus services which are very familiar with the area and can pick up and drop off guests from the airport and from their accommodation.

6. Final Tips for a Seamless Wedding AT SONGBIRD

• Enjoy the benefits of our in-house Wedding Coordinator, Samantha Letham. If you choose, Samantha will take care of all the details on the day for you! With gentle guidance and offering invaluable suggestions and advice, Sam and her team strive to ensure that the checklist is complete, the details are in hand and the only thing left to do is for you to relax and be completely present for your special day. If you need more detailed services, Samantha offers several packages, including full wedding planner services. Read about her packages here.

• Have a Weather Plan: Marquees are great options to ensure your day goes off without a hitch, regardless of the weather. We have a list of recommended vendors who provide a wide range of styles of marquee and teepees. Read about wet and windy weather options for a Songbird wedding here.

• Embrace the Local Charm: Leigh village, immediately adjacent to Matheson Bay, is known for its laid-back, coastal vibe. Incorporate that relaxed atmosphere into your wedding by opting for a more casual dress code or outdoor reception with lawn games and local cuisine. Guests often enjoy a relaxed breakfast and coffee the day after at Leigh Eats in the village. Read about local weekend activities for guests here.

Leigh Eats is a very popular hangout for wedding guests on a Sunday morning after the wedding. Check it out!

• Book Early: Songbird Retreat Wedding Venue’s popularity as a wedding destination is growing, so it’s essential to book your venue and vendors well in advance to secure your desired date. While we currently have vacancies for this summer season, due to the property being on the market in early spring, this will not last, and our bookings will fill quickly!

Say “I Do” at songbird!

With its breathtaking scenery, laid-back coastal charm, and endless options for customisation, Songbird Retreat Wedding Venue is a dream wedding destination for couples seeking a unique and memorable celebration. From our stunning venue to our talented local vendors, planning a wedding with us is an experience that will leave you and your guests with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

So, start planning today, and get ready to say “I do” in one of New Zealand’s most beautiful coastal towns!