Couples make most of personalised service
The 'wedding mall' at Cyberport is arguably the most romantic spot in The Arcade. Established in 2005 by wedding brand GP, it comprises GP Harmonie, Wedding Club and the Rose Chapel.
For couples wanting to plan their big day, it is a one-stop service offering pre-wedding photographs, bridal hair and make-up services, dresses and even the marriage itself. The couple can even invite their guests over to GP Dynastie Banquet Hall for more celebrations.
Cyberport has a scenic outdoor garden area with an ocean view that is suitable for pre-wedding photo shoots. For couples who prefer taking their photos indoors, GP has a studio with a variety of themes to choose from. Couples can also opt for a wedding video.
Before the cameras start clicking, hair and make-up need tending to, so there are experts on hand to make sure the bride and groom look their best. Custom-made or rental wedding dresses are also available to complete the picture.
Wedding Club provides wedding-planning services, while the Rose Chapel is designed for couples who aren't religious, but would like a church wedding.
Christine Li, wedding planner at GP Harmonie, believes couples are gravitating towards one-stop wedding services because they are more convenient. 'Hong Kong is a hustle and bustle city, so people are looking for services that can handle their wedding in a more effective way,' she says.
Li says couples enjoy personalised wedding services. For instance, some couples request M&M's as a wedding gift with their photo printed on the packet.
'Couples like to have a wedding with a special theme that shows their characters,' Li says. 'I just planned a wedding that was all about cupcakes and the wedding cake was made of hundreds of cupcakes. Also, there are couples who want a simple and cosy wedding, maybe a cocktail party instead of a Chinese-style banquet.'
Le Meridien Cyberport offers a romantic setting by the pool for an elegant, small wedding of up to 40 guests. As the hotel is surrounded by greenery, it makes for a perfect venue. The hotel's Prompt restaurant, with its floor-to-ceiling French windows that open onto a patio and green area, can accommodate up to 100 guests for a Western-style wedding. For a larger gathering, Le Meridien Ballroom is ideal for Chinese or Western celebrations.
