SOPHIE AND ALEX

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.

To help you move forward with clarity and confidence, I’ve updated your package to include:

  • A clear summary of what’s included

  • Notes on what’s not included, so there are no surprises

  • A booking form to make it official when you're ready

  • A few thoughtful tips on how to personalise your wedding at Songbird Retreat

Because when it feels right… you just know.

Can you picture your story unfolding here?

This furniture, which I think you will like, can be hired from Willow Lane!

here is your current thinking:

  • Guest Count: Approximately 50-70 guests.

  • Date: early January, 2027 - week of 4th or 11th

  • Location: A venue that offers:

    • the ability to put your own stamp on your venue so it reflects your personal style

    • privacy

    • an outside ceremony, in nature

    • stunning garden views with indoor and outdoor flow

    • the atmosphere that comes from a clear marquee and lots of fairy lights

    • Matakana region, where you have happy memories, and where your overseas friends and family can enjoy an extended summer stay

    • BYO opportunities so you can share your amazing cellar of fine wines

    • a wedding coordinator and assistants so you don’t have to worry about a lot in the week before or on the day

  • Vibe - more on the casual side, rustic-ish, outdoorsy, south of France outdoor kind of wedding; couches for a seated area and bar leaners and umbrellas

  • Catering: more casual, possibly Mediterranean; (no seafood or Asian)'; some sort of pause for speeches. Checkout Amaranato. I think you will like it. More details in the Catering section below.

  • Entertainment: DJ and sax, or a band.

  • Songbird Cottage: 1-2 days/nights (included if you book before July 31)

A REMINDER OF 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

Cocktail Furniture 4 bar leaners, 4 umbrellas, 16 stools

Reception Furniture Tables and chairs for 100, tablecloths, 30m2 Dance floor

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

Wedding Coordinator Professional on-the-day support from setup to final send-off

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

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) ($750 per day/night)

  • Chiller trailer or commercial catering equipment (approx $450)

  • Full table setting, styling, and florals

  • Beverages, bar staff, or external caterers

  • Shuttle transport or guest transfers

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

  • “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

YOUR NEXT STEPS

Secure Your Wedding Date at Songbird Retreat

You’re Almost There! We’re thrilled to officially welcome you to Songbird Retreat! To secure your date, simply follow these steps:

1️⃣ Review & Sign Your Contract

Read and sign our venue hire agreement

➡️ Sign Your Contract Here (password: songbirdretreat)

2️⃣ Pay Your Booking Deposit

To confirm your date, a deposit of 30% is required. Please arrange a bank transfer:

💳 Bank Transfer: (please transfer to account: 12 3119 0028549 00)

Once we receive your signed contract and deposit, your date is officially secured!

3️⃣ Next Steps

✔ You’ll receive a confirmation email with your booking details, your wedding planning portal

Need Help? If you have any questions before signing, just text or email—we’re happy to assist!

We can’t wait to celebrate your wedding at Songbird Retreat!

Learn about HOW TO PLAN YOUR WEDDING

EXPERIENCE RACHEL AND ADAM’S WEDDING

Rachel and Adam brought so much heart, laughter, and beauty to their celebration at Songbird Retreat. From golden light across the gardens to a ceremony filled with joyful tears, every moment was a reflection of their love story — intimate, elegant, and entirely their own. Here's a little glimpse of the magic that unfolded in the gardens of Songbird Retreat.