Elevate Your Love Story: The Contemporary Art Wedding Registry

As the wedding industry continues to evolve, contemporary couples are seeking unique ways to make their special day truly extraordinary. One such trend that has gained immense popularity is the Art Wedding Registry. Gone are the days of traditional gift registries; today’s couples are looking for a more personalised and meaningful approach to receive gifts from their loved ones. I had the pleasure of speaking with Sandie Barnes, a Commonwealth Registered Marriage Celebrant and an expert in the wedding industry who regularly visits KAB Gallery Sydney. She shared her insights into the growing trend of art wedding registries and the reasons why contemporary couples are embracing this modern approach.

Introducing Sandie Barnes: A Celebrant in Tune with Contemporary Couples

Sandie Barnes is a Registered Marriage Celebrant based on the North Shore of Sydney who officiates at all sorts of weddings throughout NSW.

While becoming a celebrant is something Sandie has wanted to do for many years, her journey into role finally began in 2020 when she began her year-long studies to pass the stringent requirements for official registration. Originally from Scotland, Sandie has a captivating love story of her own, having had a chance meeting with her Australian now-husband while they were both living in London. Sandie brings her unique perspective to weddings and is well-versed in what contemporary couples seek in their special day. “The most important lesson I have learnt is to never assume that you understand a marrying couple,” she says. “Individuality is the key. Every person, every family, every couple, every situation is completely unique, and it is so important to understand and respect that.” Whether it’s the style of ceremony, the nature of their relationship, or the gifts they would like, myself and the team at KAB Gallery wholeheartedly agree with this sentiment.

Having worked in the wedding industry, Sandie has learned these valuable lessons about the importance of embracing individuality. Every couple is distinct, with their own tastes, desires, and backgrounds. Sandie emphasises the significance of actively listening and understanding each couple’s vision, rather than assuming their preferences. This understanding perfectly aligns with the essence of the art wedding registry, which empowers couples to express their uniqueness through art pieces that resonate with their character.

Contemporary couples are drawn to the idea of receiving art as wedding gifts for several reasons. Sandie points out that art offers the opportunity for friends and family to give the couple a gift that holds a deeper meaning. Unlike traditional wedding gifts, art is timeless and grows with the couple throughout their journey together. By choosing an artwork, guests provide the couple with the chance to afford a masterpiece that will stand the test of time and enrich their lives. “A Gift Registry with KAB offers a couple the ability to start their art collection adventure with a signature piece that reflects their character. It is such a great way to choose a work of art. Since budget not really limiting their choice, it gives them the opportunity to choose a work that they absolutely love at first sight – together.”

As a renowned art gallery, KAB Gallery offers couples the perfect platform for setting up their art wedding registry. Sandie Barnes praises KAB Gallery’s curation of exquisite artworks, giving couples the freedom to start their art collection adventure with a signature piece that jointly reflects their character. She believes that couples should meet with the gallery team and take their time browsing and selecting from the collection. “It is crucial that you BOTH adore what you choose,” she says. You will hopefully spend the rest of your lives looking at it so it is really important that it means something for both of you”. This personalized approach enhances the emotional significance of the gift registry.

Whether the happy couples opts for a signature piece or a small collection at various price points, their decision should be based on what resonates best with their own aspirations and circumstances. “If it was me personally, I’d go for one signature piece. However, I do see the beauty in having a small and meaningful collection of works hung together for your contributors to see in your home when they visit you.”

The art wedding registry represents a contemporary and personalised approach to traditional wedding gift registries. Thanks to insights from wedding experts like Sandie Barnes, we can understand why couples are increasingly drawn to this meaningful and lasting gift option. Through KAB Gallery couples can embark on an artful adventure, creating an art collection that will stand as a testament to their unique love story for years to come.

As a dedicated celebrant, Sandie Barnes recommends couples consider registering at KAB Gallery for contributions to their gift, and letting their love be adorned with eternal masterpieces. Start your artful journey today and elevate your love story to new heights of creativity and individuality.

Connect with KAB Gallery today by calling us on 1300 78 7773 or email [email protected] 

To explore the possibilities of an artful wedding gift registry with KAB Gallery, or to inquire about Sandie Barnes’ wedding celebrant services, please reach out anytime. We can help set up your registry online – a wonderful and more personalised version of a digital wishing well. We are here to make your wedding event special with a creative gift option you can treasure. 

Make your wedding truly special by embracing the beauty of art and creating cherished memories with the perfect artworks.

About the author

Kerry-Anne Blanket

Director & Curator - KAB Gallery

KAB Gallery’s Kerry-Anne Blanket holds a Bachelor of Visual Arts and two Masters degrees (Hons) from the University of Sydney. With an extensive career in art education along with the management of museums and investment art galleries, Kerry-Anne can offer premier art consulting to her clients and source specially requested works. 

She has a keen eye for detail, comprehensive art market knowledge and a love of all things beautiful. Kerry-Anne works directly with artists and collectors alike to curate interesting and eclectic exhibitions.