PATRICIA AND JOHN

At Songbird Retreat, we don’t just host weddings. We set the stage for your most cherished memories.

You’re not just planning a wedding — you’re crafting an experience.
One that reflects who you are, what you value, and how you want your guests to feel from the moment they arrive.

here is your INITIAL thinking:

Guest Count: Approximately 80 guests.
Date: March or December 2027
Location: A venue that offers:
- a beautiful garden setting where the reception and ceremony happen at the one place, a place for feasting and family and friends
- feeling of beauty and relaxed hospitality
- opportunity to have good Filipino? food
- a NZ experience for overseas guests
Catering: Please see options for caterers here
- www.songbirdretreat.co.nz/catering
- Please see options for Filipino caterers here
Wedding coordinator: Raoul Alo (Filipino)
MC/celebrant/DJ: Please note that Raoul is also an MC, celebrant and DJ and is happy to quote for an all-in one rate if you are interested.
Accommodation: Details of options to consider here.
Songbird Cottage: 1-2 days/nights for bridal suite and/or wedding night
Some Other Ideas to Consider:
Entertainment: If you like dancing, a DJ with saxophone can be fun. Here are some options for DJs and bands
Drinks:BYO Possibly Some Kind of Wonderful?

What's IncludeD

Every detail at Songbird Retreat is designed to let you feel fully present on your wedding day — unrushed, deeply connected, and beautifully supported. From the moment you arrive, you'll have the time and space to breathe, surrounded by nature in full bloom and a setting that feels like your own private estate. We've thought through the logistics so you don’t have to — with elegant spaces, thoughtful amenities, and a professional team working quietly behind the scenes to bring everything together. Below is a reminder of what’s included in your venue hire — not just items, but everything you need to create a wedding that flows effortlessly and feels unmistakably you.

Exclusive Venue Hire Full 2-day access to beautifully lit ceremony spaces

Clear Marquee Elegant clear-roof marquee with lighting

Ceremony Furniture Ceremony arch, plinths, signing table and chair

Equipment PA system at ceremony and reception

Reception Furniture Tables and chairs for 100 (more can be hired)

Comfortable facilities Luxury toilet trailer

Efficiency Purpose-designed plinths with electricity and water for vendors

Wedding Planning Portal Guidance on all matters related to planning your wedding

Chiller Trailer. (if peak season)

Service Team Set up, support to make the day flow, and pack-down

As thanks for booking and paying your 30% deposit this week, we will also include

Songbird arranged Chiller trailer (approx $500)
an extra night in Songbird Cottage (normally $595)

For couples who want to build on this foundation with their own personal style, we offer flexibility to choose the additional elements that bring your vision to life.

The following items are not part of the standard hire — but can easily be added or arranged through our recommended vendors:

Overnight stay in the Songbird Cottage (perfect for a relaxed start or romantic wind-down) ($595 per day/night)
Full table setting (often offered by caterers), styling, and florals
Beverages, bar staff (often offered by caterers), or external caterers
Shuttle transport or guest transfers

We’re here to help you bring it all together!

YOUR PLANNING IS ALL GOING TO BE WORTH IT!

AND YOUR EXCLUSIVE WEDDING PLANNING PORTAL IS HERE TO HELP GUIDE YOU EVERY STEP OF THE WAY!

“The most beautiful venue, it exceeded every Pinterest board idea and dream we had talked about!!”
Chloe Senn
It was the perfect canvas for our day, and we couldn’t be happier. Helen and Dean, the new owners, were excellent communicators—passionate, attentive, and genuinely excited to share their venue with us.
Rachel Sommerville
“We recently had the pleasure of hosting our wedding at Songbird Retreat, and I cannot recommend this venue enough.”
Toni Love
“...while it felt like you were getting married in a family friend’s perfect backyard, the practical details were all taken care of in a way that made the day seamless. ”
Helen Chen