Planning a wedding in New Zealand? Whether you’re dreaming of an elegant vineyard wedding in Queenstown, a chic beachside celebration in Auckland, or a breathtaking mountaintop elopement in Wanaka, one question will inevitably pop up:
Do you need a wedding stylist, or can you handle the decor yourself?
If you love the idea of a stress-free wedding day where every detail looks flawless (and you’re not the one setting up chairs in your wedding dress), hiring a stylist might be the best decision you make. Let’s break it down.
What Does a Wedding Stylist Actually Do?
First things first: a wedding stylist is not just someone who makes things look “pretty.” They are the masterminds behind your wedding’s entire aesthetic, making sure every detail—from the floral arrangements to the table settings—fits together like a Pinterest-perfect dream.
✨ Here’s what a wedding stylist does:
✔️ Designs a cohesive theme for your wedding (boho, elegant, rustic, etc.)
✔️ Sources and manages rentals—arches, linens, candles, lounge furniture, you name it
✔️ Sets up all decor on the big day so you don’t have to
✔️ Problem-solves in real time (because wind, rain, and missing table numbers happen)
✔️ Packs everything down afterward (so your family isn’t doing it at midnight)
If you’ve ever walked into a wedding and thought, Wow, this looks like a magazine shoot!—chances are, a stylist was behind it.
Do You Really Need a Wedding Stylist?
Let’s play a quick game. If you answer yes to at least two of these, a stylist is a must for your wedding:
- ❏ You want a beautifully styled wedding but have no idea where to start
- ❏ Your venue is a blank canvas (e.g., a barn, field, or marquee) and needs decor
- ❏ You don’t want to be stressing about setup on your wedding day
- ❏ You love a specific aesthetic (boho, vintage, modern, etc.) but need help executing it
- ❏ You don’t want to spend weeks searching for matching chairs, linens, and signage
If you’re nodding along, hiring a stylist will save you a ton of time, stress, and—believe it or not—money.
Wedding Planner vs. Wedding Stylist: What’s the Difference?
A common question! While wedding planners handle logistics—timelines, vendor coordination, and making sure Uncle Bob doesn’t steal the mic for an impromptu speech—stylists focus solely on aesthetics.
| Feature |
Wedding Planner |
Wedding Stylist |
| Handles vendors & timeline? |
✅ Yes |
❌ No |
| Designs & styles decor? |
❌ No |
✅ Yes |
| Manages budget? |
✅ Yes |
❌ No |
| Sets up decor on the day? |
✅ Sometimes |
✅ Always |
Some planners offer styling services, but if the look and feel of your wedding is a top priority, hiring a separate stylist is the way to go.
Best Wedding Stylists in New Zealand
If you’re thinking, Alright, I’m convinced. But where do I find a good stylist?, here are some top picks:
These stylists have worked on some of the most stunning weddings across Queenstown, Wanaka, and Auckland—so you’re in good hands.
What If You’re on a Budget?
Not ready to invest in a full stylist? Here are some ways to get a styled wedding without breaking the bank:
✔ Hire a stylist just for setup and takedown – You do the planning, they do the heavy lifting.
✔ Rent pre-styled decor packages – Some companies offer curated setups that look amazing without the custom price tag.
✔ Choose a venue that includes styling – Places like Mudbrick Vineyard in Waiheke have stunning setups included.
The key is knowing where to spend vs. save—a stylist can actually help cut costs by preventing costly decor mistakes.
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Wedding Styling in NZ
How much does a wedding stylist cost in New Zealand?
It varies! Most charge between $2,000 – $5,000, depending on your venue, styling needs, and decor rentals.
What if my venue already looks nice?
Even stunning venues need styling—think table settings, candles, signage, and floral installations that reflect your style, not just the venue’s.
Can’t I just DIY my wedding decor?
Sure! But DIY means you (or your family) will be setting up chairs and arranging flowers instead of relaxing. A stylist takes that stress off your plate.
Final Thoughts: Is a Stylist Worth It?
If you want a stress-free, beautifully styled wedding that looks just as magical in real life as it does in photos, then yes—a stylist is absolutely worth it.
It’s your wedding day—you deserve to soak in every moment, not worry about whether the candles are straight.
Now That Your Wedding Will Be Beautiful, Let’s Make Sure It’s Captured Perfectly!
Once your wedding is flawlessly styled, you’ll want those picture-perfect moments captured forever. That’s where I come in! As a destination wedding photographer, I specialize in creating breathtaking, timeless images that tell your love story.
💛 See my latest weddings: Your Happy Moments Blog
📷 Explore my photography packages: Investment
📩 Let’s chat about your wedding: Contact Me
If you’re ready for a wedding day that looks (and feels) straight out of a dream, let’s make it happen! 🎉
