Ruby seeks a place to wed

Her wedding venue is on the verge of collapse, but Ruby Chan is still positive she will get married in Christchurch on March 26.

The 14th floor of the Hotel Grand Chancellor was set to be the venue for Ruby Chan and James To's wedding, but the deadly earthquake has left it on a lean and uninhabitable.

The disaster is not getting in Ms Chan's way, however, with the former Nelson College for Girls student busily reorganising her big day.

However, she is yet to find a venue big enough to accommodate the 400 guests.

Mr To was born and educated in Christchurch. The couple fell in love there after being introduced by Miss Chan's uncle during her visit home from London three years ago.

Mr To is based in Palmerston North for work and Miss Chan is staying at her mother's Nelson home where she is reorganising the wedding, including accommodation for guests and finding somebody to do her hair and makeup.

She started planning the wedding last year and is expecting guests from Australia, Taiwan, Hong Kong, London and all over New Zealand.

However, some have pulled out as they are worried about the aftershocks and the state of the shattered city.

Miss Chan is a dancer, teacher and choreographer who has an MA in dance, has danced professionally and taught in many countries. She was born in Taiwan but moved to Nelson when she was 14.

The 31-year-old said she wants to carry on with plans to wed in Christchurch because of Mr To's link to the city he was brought up in. It will also make things easier for his elderly Christchurch relatives. "During difficult times we want to bring something joyful and happy.

"We are very lucky that our friends and family in Christchurch are OK."

The special occasion will feature various performers to entertain the guests. A piece of music about the South Island composed by Miss Chan's Nelson friend John Mathieson will be played.

The wedding will also have a recycled theme. Instead of expensive flowers there will be recycled decorations. The wedding dress, groom's suit and three bridesmaid dresses will be made from recycled materials including paper and cardboard.

Inspiration for the theme came from Miss Chan's artist friend Yun-Lin Lian, who makes art from recycled materials.

The low-cost approach will also mean they will save money which the couple are considering donating to an earthquake relief fund.


- The Nelson Mail

ALICE COWDREY
Last updated 12:30 05/03/2011

With a guest list of 400, Ruby Chan needs a big venue to replace the leaning Hotel Grand Chancellor in Christchurch.
MARION VAN DIJK/The Nelson Mail
BIG LISTING: With a guest list of 400, Ruby Chan needs a big venue to replace the leaning Hotel Grand Chancellor in Christchurch.