Say ‘I do’ the local way: Part 2

Published on 19 September 2025

Tasty Bakes.jpg

Your wedding day should feel like a feast for the senses - the flavours, the music, the laughter and the little details that make it feel like you.

Keeping the planning nearby means tastings, site visits and final checks are easy, and the people helping you can actually be there when it counts.

So let’s jump right in and answer some more of the big questions when it comes tom planning your wedding down south!

What you’ll find in Part 2 of our wedding blog series:

  1. Food, menus and sweet treats
  2. Wedding cakes and bonbonnieres
  3. Photography and videography
  4. Wedding celebrants and officiants
  5. Wedding furniture hire
  6. Photobooths for weddings
  7. Music & entertainment
  8. Scenic wedding ceremony locations and reception venues

1. What food should you serve your wedding guests?

Start by picturing the feel of your day, then plan a menu that matches the feel you’re going for - relaxed and roaming, or seated and structured.

That way, you’ll also be able to decide on the style of food service, be it abundant grazing, several plated courses or a relaxed dessert bar - so everyone’s appetite is looked after without overcomplicating things.

Once you’ve settled on the type of fare, book in some tastings, make any dietary requests and map out the flow of the day (photography, reception welcome, speeches, cake, late snacks) so that the food service fits in around your schedule.

Our top local caterer picks:

 

 

2. How do you choose the right wedding cake and bonbonnieres?

When it comes to choosing your wedding cake and bonbonnieres, it’s important to choose flavours (and favours!) most people will love.

Cake size is also a common question – how large should you go? The tier size or diameter you settle on will generally depend on several things, including the number of guests, the look you want and whether or not the cake will be the only dessert served.

Alternatively, a smaller ‘display cake’ with a second kitchen sheet cake to actually serve is a smart, budget-friendly combo.

And don’t forget to chat with your cake maker about decorations and embellishments that are going to hold up in your conditions (ie. fondant instead of buttercream for warm weather).

For bonbonnieres, think simple and easy to take home: edible treats with minimal packaging, a small keepsake or something guests will actually use so they’re less likely to get left behind.

Local wedding bakers and cake decorators to check out:

3. How do you capture memories of your wedding day without missing it?

Some people ask family or friends to take photos on the day, but if capturing raw emotion and high quality memories is high on your wish list, engaging a professional wedding photographer or videographer will be worth the investment.

But there are so many out there – how do you choose the one that’s right for you?

The answer is surprisingly simple.

Choose a photographer and/or videographer whose work you love, and who makes you feel relaxed and confident.

Next, think about the shots you’d like to capture.

Share a short ‘shot priority’ list with your photographer, choose one or two locations close to your venue, and plan any ‘just-us’ photos when the light is at its best.

Another handy tip? Nominate a trusted friend to handle family wrangling, and stash any touch-ups - makeup, flowers, hair pins somewhere within easy reach.

Then let the pros get on with what they do best, while you enjoy the moments you hired them to capture!

Here are some of our favourite local photographers & videographers:

4. How to choose a wedding celebrant that matches your style?

While it forms just one part of your big day, the celebrant you choose has a huge impact on how your ceremony ultimately plays out. So it’s important to pick one that aligns with your vision.

Pick a celebrant who listens well, offers structure without scripting you too much (unless requested of course!) and who handles the legal side of things confidently.

To identify your perfect fit, ask about their process, whether they’re able to help with personalising vows and readings, if they offer flexible rehearsal times and discuss the tone you’d like (light, classic, spiritual, modern etc.) to see if they can deliver.

Here are some delightful local wedding celebrants & officials located in Onkaparinga:

5. How do I know what wedding furniture to hire?

When it comes to your wedding venue and hire furniture, start with a simple floor plan in mind - ceremony, bar, dining and dance floor - then go ahead and book the pieces that makes it work, with lighting and a wet-weather back-up considered to keep things comfortable if you’re holding your wedding outside.

Think essentials first: enough chairs for the ceremony, sturdy tables that suit your catering style (for instance, sit down, cocktail or grazing), a bar that’s easy to access and a dance floor with space to move.

Add in a few statement pieces to shape the look you’re aiming for - maybe an arbour or backdrop, lounge nooks and a signing table that won’t wobble.

If you’re outdoors, consider shade or a marquee, and ask about weights or pegs depending on the ground, and lighting is worth planning early as well, because it sets the mood and helps photos after sunset.

A quick logistics check will save stress later too.

Measure access points, confirm power needs and map where vehicles can load in and out.

Agree on bump-in and pack-down times, who handles styling and setup versus basic delivery, what needs to happen if the weather turns suddenly and who will handle bump out the next day.

Here are some of our favourite picks for local wedding furniture and event hire:

6. Are photobooths worth it for weddings?

If you want easy, guest-led fun and keepsakes people love to take home, a photobooth is absolutely worth every cent.

They work because they’re easy: no waiting for the photographer to come around, no awkward posing - just quick snaps and some fun memories to take home.

But how can you make sure it’s used?

Locate it close to all the action (but remember not to block the bar or dance floor), give it decent lighting and select a simple backdrop and props that match your vibe.

Not into props? Go minimalist with a classy backdrop – your guest’s beautiful smiles will do the rest.

And finally, set clear open/close times, nominate someone to help manage long wait lines and encourage shy guests early on, and make it easy for guests to grab the memories - quick prints, a QR gallery and a spot to stick copies in your guestbook with pens and tape.

Some great photobooth hire companies located in the City of Onkaparinga:

7. How do I choose the music for my wedding day?

Music is always an important part of any wedding day, as it helps set the scene and set the atmosphere of the event.

So start by thinking about how you want the day to feel, consider each part of the day, and then match the music to each moment so the energy rises naturally.

For instance, choose a song to walk down the aisle to that you’ll still love in ten years’ time, a short piece for signing and something a touch brighter for the exit.

For canapés/cocktails, keep it easy and conversational; live acoustic or a mellow playlist often work well while photos are happening. At the reception, plan a gentle ramp up: welcome vibes → dinner-friendly background tunes → first dance → open dance floor.

Practically, share with your DJ or band ahead of time a “do play/don’t play” list if you’ve got any specific requests, confirm any power needs and sound limits, consider contingencies for wet-weather and a plan for things like entrances, first dance, parent dances and your last song.

Some excellent local entertainers, DJs and bands in Onkaparinga:

  • Lucas Day – soulful acoustic vibes.
  • Funk Bros DJs – high-energy tunes for a packed dance floor all night.

8. Where can you say “I do” with a view? How to find a scenic wedding ceremony location.

Stunning coastline, rolling vines, gorgeous gardens and a few delightfully quirky spots off the beaten track - you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to breathtaking wedding locations with picture-perfect views along the McLaren Vale & Fleurieu Coast.

If you’re not sure where to start, why not head into the local Visitor Information Centre where you’ll find a whole lot of inspiration and knowledgeable staff that can also make suggestions.

Once you’re suitably armed with ideas, shortlist places that fit your guest count, style and budget.

From there, think like a guest - travel times, photo locations close by, a weather backup plan and easy access for everyone (don’t forget grandma!) – because a beautiful view is even better when the logistics are sorted beforehand.

Here you’ll find some great ideas for breathtaking scenic wedding locations in southern Adelaide (and they also do excellent coffee!):

Your wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime celebration, and these local suppliers in the City of Onkaparinga are set to help you savour every moment.

Planning a wedding locally keeps decisions simple and support close at hand!

Tagged as:
Back to top