Nestled in the heart of rural Canterbury, Starling Homestead opened its gates to couples, creatives, and curious souls alike for a day of inspiration and rustic romance. The Open Day wasn’t just a showcase – it was a celebration. A celebration of local talent, wedding dreams in the making, and the kind of laid-back luxury that defines this charming venue.

From the moment guests arrived, they were welcomed by rolling fields, warm hospitality, and thoughtfully curated spaces that transported everyone straight into a love story waiting to unfold. Starling Homestead, with its picturesque rural setting and elegant indoor/outdoor flow, offered the perfect canvas for this collaboration of hand-picked vendors to create magic – and they absolutely delivered.

Blackbird Hire combining with Artificielle Floral Co

Unic Picnic working with Flourish Events

Colour, Contrast, and Creative Styling

One of the most striking features of the day was the way the venue came to life through contrasting table designs. Unic Picnic brought boldness and flair with their vibrant, colour-rich picnic-style setups. Think lush cushions, layered textiles, and playful hues, set low under the trees or on the lawn – perfect for the modern couple who loves a non-traditional take on their celebration.

Unveiling of the new tent set up for Unic Picnic

Inside of the tent

Modern, white table-scape by Blackbird Hire

In contrast, Blackbird Hire offered a stunning white-on-white table display, evoking a sense of timeless elegance and clean sophistication. Soft neutrals, classic tableware, and minimalist styling gave guests a visual feast of what a chic garden ceremony or reception could look like at the Homestead. Whether you were dreaming in colour or whispering in white, the inspiration was endless.

The floral touches brought these spaces to life. Flourish Events worked their botanical magic across the styled shoot bouquets and table florals, breathing movement and fragrance into every vignette. From garden-style blooms cascading across wooden trestles to carefully composed posies in glass vases, their artistry helped tie every detail together.

Flourish Events autumnal bouquet

Artificielle Floral Co working with Blackbird Hire

Artificielle Floral Co. added further impact to the base floral altar – a show-stopping installation blending the permanence of artificial florals with the natural charm of the venue. This was a thoughtful nod to sustainability and reusability without compromising on aesthetics. The ceremony space felt elevated, sacred even, framed in florals and dappled sunlight.

Faces Behind the Magic

As always, behind every beautiful shoot are the creatives who make it all happen. I had the absolute pleasure of photographing the event (Kathryn Louise Weddings), capturing candid moments, styled portraits, and all the intricate details. It’s always a privilege to work in spaces where so much love and creativity are poured in by vendors and couples alike.

Alongside me, Chaznel Photography was also documenting the day with her signature eye for emotion and storytelling. Together, we captured laughter, soft glances, and vendor passion in full bloom.

Texas Western Apparel

Chaznel Photography

The styled shoot featured a gown from New Chapter Bridal, showcasing the grace and elegance their Christchurch boutique is known for. Flowing silhouettes and romantic trains were styled with accessories from Texas Western Apparel, who brought a country-glam edge with their hat and stand display – an unexpected but striking combination that gave the shoot a fresh, editorial vibe.

Rever Styling was behind the effortlessly stunning hair look. Soft waves, polished ponytails, and textured braids gave each bride model a different but cohesive vibe, perfectly suiting the relaxed yet elegant nature of Starling Homestead. Makeup by Alicia Marie (@makeup.byaliciamarie) brought out natural radiance with glowing skin, warm tones, and fluttery lashes – it was beauty done right: wearable, confident, and full of joy.

Makeup by Alicia Marie

Rever Styling

For the finishing touches, Kowhai Lane displayed delicate pressed flowers in vintage-style frames – perfect keepsakes or wedding décor that’s personal and eco-conscious. Each piece told its own story, preserved with care and sentimentality.

Kowhai Lane’s incredible pressed florals on display

Sweet Treats, Sips, and Rustic Luxury

Weddings aren't just about aesthetics – they're about experience. And the Starling Homestead Open Day had that covered too. Paige’s Pantry provided a mouth-watering selection of treats that had visitors swooning. From bite-sized desserts to whole cakes that looked like they belonged in a magazine, Paige’s baking brought a sweet finish to every table.

Paige’s baked delights

Fancy a Drop trailers available

Meanwhile, Fancy A Drop served up a fun and relaxed beverage experience, helping guests imagine what their own bar setup might look like come wedding day. Whether you’re a champagne lover or a cocktail connoisseur, their bar service adds both style and practicality to any outdoor celebration.

For couples dreaming of something a little different, Canterbury Glamping Co. was also on site, showcasing their elegant tents and comfortable lounge setups. Glamping isn't just for festivals anymore – it's a gorgeous and practical way to accommodate guests or enjoy a honeymoon night under the stars, without sacrificing an ounce of comfort.

And speaking of comfort – Bloom Homestead’s delicious contributions extended the rural charm of the venue.

The Face behind the Bloom - Zoe

Bloom Homestead Small Serving Platters

Canterbury Glamping luxury tent

Celebrating Love, Celebrating Local

The Open Day wasn’t just about logistics or bookings – it was about giving couples a real sense of place, possibility, and partnership. With Anna Flanagan Celebrant present to speak with guests, there was an immediate sense of connection and purpose. Anna brings a calm, warm presence that’s perfect for guiding couples through their vows and their vision. Her genuine love for people and storytelling was evident as she chatted with guests and vendors alike.

That’s what made this Open Day truly shine – it wasn’t just a promotional event, it was a beautifully collaborative showcase of what can happen when talented vendors come together in a stunning location with a shared goal: to help couples create a wedding day that reflects them in every way.

Why Starling Homestead?

With its sweeping lawns, thoughtfully restored interiors, and warm, welcoming energy, Starling Homestead is fast becoming a standout venue for weddings in Canterbury. The team behind the homestead have created more than a space – they’ve cultivated an experience. From ceremonies under the trees to receptions under the stars, this is a place where moments are made and memories are treasured.

For couples seeking a venue that combines rustic beauty with modern elegance, local charm with creative flexibility, the Open Day was the perfect window into what’s possible.

In Summary

Whether it was the floral artistry of Flourish Events, the charming picnic setups by Unic Picnic, the sweet offerings from Paige’s Pantry, or the polished elegance of New Chapter Bridal’s gowns, every element of the Starling Homestead Open Day spoke to the heart of what weddings are truly about – beauty, connection, and community.

To all the couples who attended, thank you for dreaming with us. And to every vendor who poured your heart into this day – thank you for reminding us what’s possible when passion meets purpose.

Vendors Involved – Starling Homestead Open Day

Venue:
🌾 Starling Homestead – @starlinghomestead

Celebrant:
💍 Anna Flanagan Celebrant – @annaflanagancelebrant

Photography:
📸 Kathryn Louise Weddings – @kathrynlouiseweddings
📸 Chaznel Photography – @chaznelphotography

Florals:
💐 Flourish Events – @flourishevents.nz (Bouquets & table florals)
🌸 Artificielle Floral Co – @artificielle.floralco (Floral altar base)

Styling & Tablescapes:
🎨 Unic Picnic – @unicpicnic (Colourful tables)
🤍 Blackbird Hire – @blackbirdhire (White table display)

Hair & Makeup:
💄 Makeup by Alicia Marie – @makeup.byaliciamarie
💇‍♀️ Rever Styling – @rever_styling

Bridalwear & Fashion:
👗 New Chapter Bridal – @newchapterbridal
👢 Texas Western Apparel – @texaswesternapparel

Food & Beverage:
🧁 Paige’s Pantry – @paigespantry_
🍹 Fancy A Drop – @fancyadrop

🌻 Bloom Homestead – @bloomhomestead

Decor & Keepsakes:
🌿 Kowhai Lane – @kowhailane (Pressed flower frames)

Accommodation & Experiences:
⛺ Canterbury Glamping Co. – @canterburyglampingco