Our Weddings Managers, have answered the next top 6 questions below, more coming watch this space…

How much decoration does the Mudbrick venue require? And what should I budget for flowers/styling? 

Mudbrick is already so full of character and atmosphere – neither the Lodge or restaurant require a lot of decoration! Having said that you can decorate as much as you wish and we will work with you and your vendors closely to ensure your set up runs smoothly on the day. Most couples will simply arrange a florist for ceremony and reception florals and bring along their own candles in holders for dinner tables. Flower and styling budgets both depend on the quantity of florals you are looking for and the amount of decoration overall, and costs of these depend on season and type of flower/service provided. Its best to discuss your vision with a florist that knows Mudbrick well to decide what will work for you – we highly recommend Wildflower and Flower Gallery on the island

Should I book a band or a DJ for entertainment?

Yes, you will need to book a band or DJ for dancing music after dinner, we can play our own background playlist during your evening meal. We have lots of awesome musician, band and DJ recommendations who have all played at Mudbrick previously. There is a sound system at the Lodge that you may use for your ceremony and cocktail hour music, or you may want an acoustic musician or singer to lend an extra romantic atmosphere to your nuptials. For the most stress-free experience, book one of our recommended musicians or DJs for the whole day and evening.

What time can I have access to the venue from?

Set up for the wedding ceremony is from 2pm to 4pm, and for the reception is from 4.30pm to 6.15pm. These timings are a little earlier in winter, but essentially the reception is set up whilst you are saying “I do”. Now, don’t be concerned about the seemingly impossible turn-around time! Our staff are highly experienced in setting up wedding floor plans and transform the restaurant seamlessly from lunch into a beautiful wedding reception, working with your florist. And don’t worry about the end of the night, we’ve got the clean up covered.  

Does Mudbrick offer accommodation?

Every couple that marries at the Lodge has use of it overnight on their wedding day. The Lodge offers accommodation for 6 people in 3 king en-suite rooms (or king singles, you let us know the bed configuration according to who stays!) and includes a breakfast hamper to enjoy at your leisure the next morning. If you can squeeze in a moment to yourselves at the end of your special day, there’s also a spa pool hot and ready for relaxation! We also have two divine luxury cottages onsite at Mudbrick that are just perfect for parents to stay – furnished with a king bedroom, kitchenette, spa pool and beautiful view back to the city across the Hauraki Gulf. Both are beautifully decorated to a T.

I really want sunset pictures, what time of the year should I book for this?

No matter the time of year, you can find a gorgeous sunset at Mudbrick after your ceremony, with dashes of pink, orange and purple setting the sky alight over Auckland and Rangitoto. In summer you may need to dash out between dinner courses (don’t worry, we’ll cover this in our final catch up before the day and you won’t miss your meal) and in winter it may be during the cocktail hour.

What kind of cuisine will be offered? My guests have lots of dietary requirements! Can you cater to these?

Your wedding meal is one of those rare, extra-special moments-in-time that you will remember for the rest of your life – therefore the menu and wine served, not to mention the service itself, must be equal to such a significant event.  Our Mudbrick menus and wine are world-class and your guests will choose their meal when they are seated for dinner on the night. Our experienced waitstaff will offer friends and family your selection of wines to the table and answer any questions on the menu, before taking orders.  To ensure all your guests can relax in the knowledge their meal will be tailored to their requirements, we do ask for dietaries in advance.  It is a good idea to include this question on your RSVP, so you are not following up with guests too close to the date. Our outstanding chefs have decades of experience serving incredible menus and are able to meet all dietary requirements.