It’s a Tuesday AM and you’re deep-diving through the Insta-abyss, eyes glazed over from the endless parade of cookie-cutter weddings, when—wham!—you smack into a photo of a Gather and Gold tipi.
It’s not just love at first sight; it’s a full-on, head-over-heels, “cancel all my plans, I’m getting married in a tent” kind of epiphany.
That’s what happened for bride Sarah when it came to planning her once-in-a-life-time special day.
Now, basking in the glow of newlywed bliss, full of snuggles and all that good stuff, we got the scoop on some of the juicy details we’ve been dying to know about her amazing day.
With her magic unfolding under the canvas at one of our favourite spots, Sherwood in Queenstown, Sarah shares with us all her special under-the-tipi moments.
From cozying up with her favourite humans, wrapped in a fairy light glow and basking in the warmth that only fire pits and close-knit love can provide, to scribbling vows on a receipt because, hey, life happens!
For anyone dreaming of their own tipi wedding, her advice is simple: vibe with your vendors, trust them to bring their A-game, and just go with the flow. It’s about making your day feel like you, without sweating the small stuff.
So, for the cool kids out there looking to tie the knot with a touch of laid-back luxury and a heap of personality, think tipi.
And if you’re itching for a sneak peek into how this all goes down in real life, let’s hear more from Sarah!
Where did your love affair with tipi weddings begin?
S: On the gram’! Our venue suggested adding a Gather and Gold tipi to their outdoor space. I headed straight to Instagram to check them out, and that was it—love at first sight.
We couldn’t imagine our wedding without one. I was totally spellbound by the whimsical, romantic, and cozy feel they give any space!
Your wedding day is one of the most special moments of your life, and having the right vendors can make all the difference. Can you share with us who your must-have vendors were and why these folks were so important to you?
S: I organised our wedding around my dream photographer, Sarah Clements! She is so insanely talented, kind, and fun. The images she captured are beyond our wildest dreams.
I could get married 1000 times (to the same husband, obviously 😉), and I would always choose to include her.
Gypsy from The Vase Floral Co. created the most incredible surprise bridal bouquet and florals. We gave her full creative control, and she delivered beyond our expectations. The florals were the most gorgeous I have ever seen and exactly what I wanted, even though I didn’t know it! Wildly talented.
All our vendors were amazing, and interacting with them is some of my favourite memories of our wedding! They’re along for the ride with you way before the actual day, so do your research and work with people who match your vibe! We chose the best! From the first contact to the big day, everyone was so excited for us and genuinely invested in ensuring we had the best day ever!
From the breathtaking decor to the emotional moments, we’re sure your wedding was filled with countless unforgettable memories made under the canvas. But tell us, what was your favourite moment of the day, and why did it leave such a lasting impression on you?
S: So many moments, but probably just seeing all our loved ones having a great time. A wedding is such a special time, not just for the people getting married but also because it brings everyone together and there is just so much love around!
We know that it’s the little things that make a wedding truly magical. So spill, what was your favourite small detail at your tipi wedding, and how did it add to the overall vibe of the day?
S: The tipi was SO cozy! The combination of fairy lights, heating, and a cozy fire made the whole setting so romantic. The tipi magic is real; under the canvas is a whole different world!
They say laughter is the best medicine, and we live for the giggles here at G&G! What was your most hilarious moment on your wedding day?
S: Me accidentally waking up at 2:30 AM on the morning of the wedding, just too excited! Us nearly forgetting to take the rings to the ceremony… that would have been awkward!
Writing my vows on the back of an NZ Post receipt on the way to the ceremony – I forgot the pretty vow books, but I just had to have them!
We know planning a wedding can be stressful, but with your tipi wedding behind you, you’re an expert now! Looking back, what advice would you give to future tipi couples?
S: Work with amazing vendors and trust them! They’re the passionate professionals. Let them do their job and take their advice. It’ll be less stressful for you. Sit back, relax, and enjoy your day. It goes by so fast!
Finally, we would be delighted if you could share your experience working with us here at Gather & Gold. Did we meet your expectations, and would you recommend our tipis to other brides and grooms?
S: We feel so incredibly lucky to have had a Gather and Gold tipi at our wedding, without a doubt one of the best (and easiest) decisions we made. From my very first phone call with Sarah to inquire, I could tell she has a passion for what she does.
I genuinely felt as though I was the most important client in the world! The excitement and interest she showed in how our day was coming together was incredible. Offering advice and staying in contact throughout, we felt so cared for.
Gather and Gold truly helped us create the most magical wedding atmosphere. They are so passionate about their craft and delivering an epic experience. I could not fault the team on anything. Outstanding service from first contact to the big day and beyond.
They are invested fully in ensuring your dreams become reality. Forever grateful to the G&G team for sharing their magic with us!
