Your Wedding Team
Shane Brown
Owner and Producer
Shane Brown, owner and producer of Creative Stageworks and Union and Co, has a lifelong passion for delivering exceptional, high-quality events with creativity, elegance, and attention to detail. Through Union and Co,
Shane specialises in creating unforgettable weddings across the Manawatū and throughout New Zealand, while also offering professional planning and coordination for a wide range of celebrations including 21st birthdays, engagement parties, baby showers, corporate functions, and special milestone events. Beyond event planning,
Shane is also the owner of Young Stars NZ, inspiring thousands of children across New Zealand through performance and confidence-building opportunities. His other passions include vocal coaching and music tuition through Creative Stageworks, producing concerts, musicals, and live events, as well as musical directing, MC work, and performing. Shane is dedicated to creating memorable experiences that bring people together and leave a lasting impact.
To discuss your dream event or performance opportunity, contact Shane at info@creativestageworks.co.nz.
Natalie Bethell
Wedding Co-Ordinator
Natalie is a Woodville local with a natural gift for bringing people together and keeping things running smoothly. As a mum of five and a holder of a Diploma in Business Management, she has mastered the art of organisation, calm under pressure, and getting things done with heart and humour.
She brings warmth, clarity, and a grounded presence to every project she’s part of. Whether she’s coordinating behind the scenes, supporting community or heritage initiatives, or acting as the steady voice of reason in a whirlwind of ideas, Natalie blends practical skill with a quietly sharp creative mind.
Known for her reliability, friendly communication style, and ability to turn busy days into manageable ones, she’s the person who keeps things on track without ever making a fuss. With her approachable nature and well‑timed sense of humour, Natalie makes people feel instantly at ease — bringing structure when it’s needed, laughter when it helps, and genuine heart to everything she does.
Steve Bethell
Celebrant
Steve Bethell is a wedding celebrant based in the beautiful Manawatū and Tararua regions, and is always happy to travel wherever a couple’s special day takes him.
He is dedicated to creating ceremonies that genuinely reflect each couple’s story. Whether the vision is traditional, modern, relaxed, or completely unique, Steve offers calm guidance, creativity, and heartfelt support from the first meeting through to the moment vows are exchanged.
Fluent in Te Reo Māori, Steve is honoured to incorporate language, tikanga, and cultural elements into ceremonies when desired — weaving depth, connection, and meaning into the occasion.
Before becoming a celebrant, Steve served in the Navy, gaining confidence in public speaking and experience coordinating large-scale events. These skills now help him ensure every ceremony runs smoothly, feels effortless, and sets the perfect tone for the celebration that follows.
Steve believes every love story deserves to be celebrated in a way that feels authentic and unforgettable — your day, your way.
Contact Steve at tyingtheknotwithsteve@gmail.com
Victoria Bethell
Head Chef
Victoria is a dedicated culinary professional with a strong foundation in classical and contemporary cookery. She holds NZQA Level 1, 2, and 4 Certificates in Cookery, along with a Level 5 Diploma in Culinary Arts, giving her both the technical expertise and creative confidence to deliver high‑quality, personalised dining experiences.
With a passion for developing new flavours and exploring innovative combinations, Victoria approaches cooking as both a craft and a form of expression. She enjoys experimenting with ingredients, refining techniques, and creating dishes that balance taste, texture, and presentation. Her work reflects a commitment to excellence, attention to detail, and a genuine love for the culinary arts.
Victoria specialises in preparing meals tailored to individual preferences, dietary needs, and cultural traditions. She values the stories and memories that food can hold, and she is proud to incorporate family recipes, heritage dishes, and culturally significant flavours into her work. Whether preparing a comforting classic or designing a unique, modern creation, she ensures every dish is made with care, respect, and authenticity.
Known for her professionalism, reliability, and warm communication style, Victoria brings both skill and heart to every kitchen she steps into. Her goal is simple: to create food that people connect with — meals that reflect who they are, what they love, and the flavours that matter most to them.