Aug 27, 2024
Bonnie and George preceeded their Cutler and Co wedding with a Burnley Gardens wedding ceremony, hidden in the heart of Melbourne along the banks of the Yarra River.
Dress Designer: Caroline Castigliano via BlueBell Bridal
Suit: P Johnson Tailors
Planning & Styling: The Farmers Daughter and The Small Things Co
Florist: Blonde Florals
Venue: Cutler & Co
Music: Hey Jack
Celebrant: Georgia Mills
Bride Jewellery: Olivia Bond Diamonds
Groom Ring: Sarah & Sebastian
Make Up for Bridal Party: DMV Makeup Artistry
Hair: Liberty & Frank
Wedding Cake: Miss Trixie Drinks Tea
Stationery: Ardently Yours
If you’re after a wedding venue that feels like a secret garden tucked away in the middle of Melbourne, Burnley Gardens might just be the spot for you. Situated along the banks of the Yarra, this beautiful and historic garden space is perfect for couples looking to tie the knot amidst nature without having to leave the city. Whether you’re envisioning an intimate ceremony or a larger celebration, Burnley Gardens offers an incredible backdrop that Melbourne couples will love.
Burnley Gardens isn’t your standard, manicured park. It’s a lush, thriving garden filled with all sorts of native and exotic plants, making it an ideal location for couples who want their wedding to have a more organic, natural feel. With over 150 years of history, it’s a place that holds a bit of magic, offering peace and tranquillity while still being only a stone’s throw from the bustling inner suburbs.
Unlike more commercial wedding venues, Burnley Gardens feels like you’ve stumbled upon a hidden gem. The gardens are part of the University of Melbourne’s Burnley Campus, meaning they’re maintained by some of the country’s best horticulturists. This level of care shows in the greenery that surrounds you – there’s always something in bloom, and the layout offers plenty of secluded spots perfect for romantic moments or quiet reflection.
For couples considering Burnley Gardens, one of the highlights is the variety of ceremony spaces available. Whether you want to say your vows beneath towering trees, near picturesque water features, or in a more open grassy area, there’s something for every style. The garden’s different nooks allow you to create an atmosphere that feels entirely your own. You can choose a spot that suits your guest size, from intimate gatherings to larger parties of around 120 people.
Burnley Gardens offers a solid mix of both charm and practicality. There’s ample parking on site, and it’s easily accessible for guests coming from all corners of Melbourne. The gardens also provide plenty of options for photo opportunities without having to relocate – meaning more time spent celebrating and less time traveling between spots.
One important thing to note is that Burnley Gardens is an outdoor venue. While Melbourne’s weather is famous for being unpredictable, there are plenty of sheltered areas to keep in mind in case the skies decide to turn. But if you’re a Melbourne local, you already know that a little rain never stops a good time.
One of the best things about choosing Burnley Gardens for your wedding is the flexibility it offers in styling. Whether you want to bring in a marquee, set up an outdoor lounge area, or simply let the natural beauty of the space shine, there’s plenty of room to make the venue your own. The gardens also give you a blank canvas for your photography – from dramatic shots amongst the trees to softer moments in the flowerbeds. The key is working with the landscape, allowing it to complement your wedding style.
If you’re dreaming of an outdoor ceremony but want to move indoors for the reception, Burnley Gardens is conveniently located near several reception venues that will make the transition seamless. Options range from stylish, urban venues to more casual pub-style spots, offering something for every vibe. Richmond, Hawthorn, and South Yarra are just around the corner, so you’re never far from a fantastic spot to kick on and keep the celebrations going.
Before diving headfirst into planning, there are a few key details to consider. Being a public garden, Burnley Gardens operates with specific booking policies and restrictions, particularly around alcohol and noise levels. It’s worth having a chat with the University of Melbourne’s events team early in the process to make sure all your bases are covered. That said, the team is incredibly helpful and will guide you through any restrictions to ensure your day runs smoothly.
Your photographer is going to love Burnley Gardens. The mix of formal and informal garden areas, coupled with the varied topography, means there’s no shortage of great locations for wedding shots. Whether you’re looking for candid moments or more dramatic poses, Burnley Gardens delivers on both fronts. The natural light filtering through the trees creates a soft, romantic glow, making those golden hour shots something truly special.
If you’re thinking about booking Burnley Gardens for your wedding, your best bet is to contact the University of Melbourne’s events team. They manage all venue hire requests and can provide all the necessary details about pricing, availability, and any other specifics you might need to know. They’re also great at answering any logistical questions you might have, ensuring your day at Burnley Gardens is nothing short of perfect.
Choosing Burnley Gardens for your wedding means embracing the beauty of nature right in the heart of Melbourne. It’s a space that offers both serenity and a touch of whimsy – perfect for couples looking to create something special on their wedding day.
Aug 6, 2024
Maybe the hottest intimate venue in Collingwood at the moment, from the folks that brought us Rice Paper Scissors comes Aunty Kim. We photographed their launch campaign, creating a suite of images that showcased their multitudes across all things decadent, intimate, and anarchic. Scroll on to see what an Aunty Kims wedding could look like, whether your pals are one tenth this majestic or not.
Ah, weddings. The ultimate celebration of love, commitment, and passive-aggressive seating arrangements. If you’re planning to plunge into the joyous abyss of matrimony, Aunty Kims has you sussed. Nestled in the heart of this hipster haven, Aunty Kim’s offers a unique blend of charm, whimsy, and just a hint of productive existential dread.
Imagine a place where romance meets the macabre, where love isn’t sugar-coated but rather dipped in the rich, dark chocolate of reality. Aunty Kim’s isn’t your typical wedding venue; it’s a gothic dreamscape where “till death do us part” feels less like a promise and more like a forecast.
The Aunty Kims venue itself is a testament to neo-gothic splendor (see also this Cutler and Co wedding), reminiscent of an era when petticoats were in vogue and tuberculosis was a romantic plot twist. High, vaulted ceilings loom like the shadow of an impending in-law visit, casting playful yet haunting shadows that flicker with the light of a thousand candles. The walls are adorned with Victorian-era portraits whose eyes follow you like judgmental aunts at a family reunion, reminding you that every choice you make is being scrutinized by the ghost of Christmas past.
But let’s not forget the food, a symphony of flavors conducted by a culinary maestro who has a penchant for the poetic. The menu at Aunty Kim’s is a veritable feast for both the palate and the soul, and each dish is paired with wines so introspective, they could double as your therapist, and so divine it could make a nihilist believe in love
The staff at Aunty Kim’s are not just employees; they are performers in this grand yet intimate opera. They glide through the venue like specters, attending to every detail with the precision of a Poe protagonist. Need a candle lit? Consider it done with a flourish. Want the organist to play “The Funeral March” as you walk down the aisle? They’re already tuning up.
What truly sets Aunty Kim’s apart is its dedication to crafting an unforgettable experience, tailor-made for those who see the beauty in the shadows. The venue offers customizable packages, allowing you to infuse your special day with personal touches. Fancy releasing a murder of crows instead of doves? They’ve got you covered. How about a photo booth that doubles as a Victorian mourning parlor? Your wish is their command.
A wedding at Aunty Kim’s is not just an event; it’s a declaration, a sonnet to the duality of love and life. If you’re ready to embrace the beautifully macabre and step into the darkly delightful, Aunty Kim’s Wedding Venue in Collingwood is the perfect place to say, “I do… until death do us part.”
Make a photography enquiry for your Aunty Kims wedding: https://briarsatlas.com/info-couples or if you love all things Kodak and questionable object engineering, book us as your film wedding photographer.
Aunty Kims wedding website: https://auntykims.com/
See this Cumulus Up wedding of Sharni and Michael, photographed entirely on Kodak film in Melbourne, this Rupert on Rupert wedding of Liv and Dave, and the Higher Ground wedding of Samantha and Michael. For another venue similar in scale but with a slightly brighter twist, Spring St Events have you sorted, so check this Recoleta wedding in Melbourne from them. Or give a good old scan to this list of Unique Wedding Venues in Melbourne.
Jul 31, 2024
Parisian styled ateliers and the best of Melbournes intersection between culinary mainstays and understated artistic event spaces. That was the flavour of Sharni and Michaels carefully crafted wedding. With a shared love of the arts and heirloom photography, they requested their Cumulus Up (otherwise known as being a part of the wider Cumulus Inc) wedding was photographed entirely on Kodak film.
Enjoy.
Venue: Cumulus
Video: Hend Creative
Audio: Ezekiel Fenn
Dress: Donatelle Godart Paris via Carte Blanche Bride
Shoes: Amina Mauaddi
Cake: Zephyr & Bloom
Headed by acclaimed chef Andrew Mcconnel (also: Gimlet), Cumulus Inc has a range of spaces for different size events, and a mighty marvellous design sensibility. Goes without saying, the grub might be quite a little bit good.
Cumulus Inc website: https://www.cumulusinc.com.au/
Cumulus Inc phone number: (03) 9650 1445
See more at this Fortyfive Downstairs wedding, and for something vaguely similar in flavour in the heart of Melbourne, you must check out this Cutler and Co wedding.
Jul 30, 2024
Samantha, principal dancer of the Norwegian Ballet, and Michael, finance extraordinaire, held their wedding across two of Melbournes most iconic venues: Higher Ground, and Glasshaus Inside. With a combined family gathering from both Norway and Australia, their wedding inevitably fused a universe anchored in dance and community. And you know it’s family love, when the family home has a giant, two storey painting of their Samantha.
Enjoy these images of their wedding at this marvellously unique slice of Melbourne.
For high-ceiling warehouse decadence in the northern hemisphere, take a look at the Jam Handy wedding we photographed, right in the the heart of Detroit, Michigan.
Photographed on a mixture of digital and 35mm film – hire us as your film wedding photographer.
Wedding celebrant: Charis White
Wedding videographer: Axel Tuohy
Wedding DJ: Onemoresong
Wedding dress: Grace Loves Lace
Higher Ground is uniquely in a league of it’s own, but the incredible Great Hall at this Provenance Wines wedding has an aesthetic that is not dissimilar, out in the heart of Geelong.
Higher Ground website: https://highergroundmelbourne.com.au/
Higher Ground phone number: (03) 9088 0723
Higher ground is located at 650 Little Bourke St, Melbourne
Higher ground finds it’s home in a heritage listed power station from the 1890’s.
Higher Ground can accommodate weddings and groups ranging from intimate gatherings to decadent soirees that take over the entire venue.
Recoleta is an intimate wedding venue run by Spring St Events. See an example of a Recoleta Wedding. For something similarly small, see this Aunty Kims wedding.
Mar 25, 2024
White Top Venues are the industries premium event professionals, taking care of catering, styling and event production at the most sought after wedding venues in Victoria and the most decadent luxury events.
White Top Venues have exclusive access to a stable of in demand venues in the most scenic locations, as well as a wealth of experience planning high-end events and celebrations on private property (see more private property wedding venues in Victoria).
White Top Venues are host high-end luxury weddings, for couples who want the industries best involved in every are from planning, to styling, florals, catering and more. They specialise in everything from intimate soirees to decadent affairs with several hundred guests, with a cache of private wedding venues under their custodianship.
Guest photos taken at White Top Venues Barragunda Estate, at our live portrait Vanity Fair Photobooth, Blanc.
Main website: https://www.whitetop.au/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whitetopvenues/
Make an enquiry here
Related luxury wedding venues: see the Melbourne Higher Ground wedding of Samantha and Michael.
Feb 19, 2024
Going private property means going with a venue that will be an undeniably new experience to you and your guests. Typically, most private property wedding venues have a much lower number of available bookings per year too, which means more attention from them, and more attention from your events and planning team.
The Style Co: the Style Co are host to the most fabulous and decadent private property weddings and events found anywhere in Melbourne or greater Victoria.
Weddings of Desire: Helmed by planner Laura Harvey, Weddings of Desire are the custodians of some of the most incredible private property wedding and event spaces available (See: Barragunda Estate, where we were hired for our Vanity Fair photo booth, Blanc). See the wedding we photographed with Weddings of Desire – Nurse Ella Walters to Olympic gold medal winning swimmer Mack Horton at the wedding of Ella and Mack.
Covering weddings, events, brand activations and more, White Top Venues make planning a private property wedding easier, with a stable of private venues and a breadth of experience in connecting to new and unseen places in greater Victoria.
Weddings of Desire have an expansive portfolio of private wedding venues that otherwise serve as peoples homes, open in small doses each year for an event.
From our campaign photographed for Aunty Kims weddings
Finding the perfect wedding venue can be a bit like finding the right coffee spot in Melbourne – personal, nuanced, and totally worth it when you land on the right one. If you’re after something with a bit more charm and character than the usual venues, hiring a private property in Victoria might be just your lane. Think sprawling countryside estates or chic inner-city homes, where the venue feels like an extension of your own personal style.
A few vendors to make the whole affair feel seamless:
Mornington Peninsula is practically begging for a wedding – it’s got that laid-back, seaside-meets-vineyard vibe that (gently) screams intimate yet effortlessly cool. Private property hire here is all about taking full advantage of the stunning natural backdrops, from coastal cliffs to tucked-away vineyards.
Some vendors worth having on speed dial:
Both regions offer the ultimate canvas to bring your dream day to life, without the confines of traditional venues.
Top ten houses for rent for weddings.
Step Into the Past (With Wi-Fi)
Mewburn Park is like a time machine, transporting you to a bygone era—minus the corsets. With stunning gardens perfect for a love declaration, it feels like something out of Pride and Prejudice. Just imagine your friends trying to reenact that iconic dance scene—extra points for the right tunes.
Where Farm Fresh Meets Fabulous
Tambo Farm is like a scene from The Office—if Michael Scott threw a wedding. It’s a place where rustic charm meets modern flair, allowing you to celebrate in style while nibbling on snacks that are fresher than your ex’s excuses. Get ready for farm-to-table goodness that will have your guests raving long after the cake is gone.
S’mores and More
Welcome to Bonfire Station, where you can have a wedding and a campfire night rolled into one. Think late-night stories, laughter, and plenty of marshmallows. It’s the cozy, heartwarming scene you’d find in a rom-com—minus the dramatic misunderstandings.
Elegant, But Not Stuffy
Barunah Plains is your chance to feel like royalty without needing a crown. With expansive lawns and stylish interiors, it’s the perfect setting for a classy yet laid-back bash. Picture your friends donning their best attire and posing for photos like they’re in a fashion magazine.
Raise a Glass, Literally
At Lauriston Hills, the wine flows as freely as the laughter. This vineyard setting is perfect for toasting to love with friends while enjoying views that could make a postcard jealous. Think of it as your own episode of The Bachelor, minus the roses and drama.
Nature Calls (And It’s Not Your Ex)
Eight Acres is where the great outdoors meets your wedding day dreams. With gorgeous nature surrounding you, it’s like celebrating in your own secret hideaway. Plus, you can soak in the tranquility while your guests kick back and enjoy the vibe.
Home Sweet Venue
Willow & Stone feels like a warm hug from your favorite sitcom—intimate and full of character. It’s a cozy spot where you can celebrate without the pretentiousness. Picture a gathering where everyone feels at ease, and the laughs come easily.
Crafting Your Perfect Day
Chapter Barn & Studio is a canvas for your creativity, where every detail can reflect your personality. It’s like a DIY project, but without the Pinterest fails. With spaces designed to inspire, it’s the perfect spot for those who want to break away from the traditional mold.
Toast to Love (And Wine)
Mimosa Wines is your vineyard dream come true, where you can sip and celebrate in style. Picture toasting with friends in a setting that makes you feel like you’re living in a romantic comedy—complete with a soundtrack of laughter and clinking glasses.
Your Private Getaway
Coombs Hill Homestead is like finding a hidden gem that you can’t wait to show off. With its charming vibe and beautiful scenery, it’s the ideal spot for those wanting a more intimate celebration. This venue is all about good times with friends, minus the drama.
On-site accommodations so the festivities can continue into the night.
Secluded grounds for a truly private event.
Adaptable spaces that fit whatever theme you have in mind.
Beautiful gardens that are calling for a group photo.
We are chosen to photograph the most luxurious and style-forward weddings, events and more, from backyards to… Bruce Springsteen fronting the show at a backyard wedding – make an enquiry: https://briarsatlas.com/info-couples
The best things in life aren’t always tucked away out of sight. See this Cumulus Up wedding photographed entirely on 35mm kodak film, the George Ballroom wedding of Patti and Chris, the Higher Ground wedding of Norwegian Ballet principal dancer Samantha, and for something that feels impossibly private regardless, this Recoleta wedding by Spring St events.
Dec 23, 2023
Liv and Dave chose everyones favourite Collingwood wedding venue Rupert to host their soiree with a majestic crew of their favourites. With local hero atelier Luci Di Bella lending her carefully crafted gown and sonic masterminds Horns of Leroy filling everyones ears with their genius, this is what it looks like when you shake up several rounds of wedding reschedules and let joy loose into the air. What a treat.
We brought a blend of digital and analogue film cameras (bring us along as your film wedding photographer), a keen pair of eyeballs and leant into the anarchy with them.
Rupert on Rupert was also featured in our post about qlternative wedding venues in Melbourne – see the post to find more unique wedding venues. If you’re considering having your wedding at Rupert, we’re happy to share a bunch of information on all the hidden gold around the area, as well as tips on making the most of a wedding at the venue.
We work with the best of the best… Liv and Dave just happened to assemble a few of them all in one place that fateful day out in Collingwood. Hearts open, curiosity unhinged, here goes…
Wedding photographer: Briars Atlas
Florist: North St
Dress: Luci Di Bella
Cake: Sonia Fitzpatrick
Band: Horns of Leroy
Photographed on a mixture of digital and kodak film. See more weddings photographed on film.
Rupert on Rupert website: www.rupertonrupert.com.au
Venue size: Warehouse cosy, with room to rave. 85 seated, 220 cocktail.
Briars Atlas Wedding Photography – https://briarsatlas.com/info
Geez we do stuff well in this city. Check out this video of some of the best small wedding venues in Melbourne, as well as this Higher Ground wedding, George Ballroom wedding, and for an ultra rustic spin, Sumeyra and Daniels Provenance Wines wedding.
Sep 30, 2023
A selection of our favourite Hotel Windsor wedding photos, at this iconic heritage space in Melbourne.
As for a great pairing venue, it would be rude not to share this Cumulus Up wedding.
Planning your wedding and searching for the perfect venue? Look no further than Hotel Windsor in Melbourne, where timeless elegance meets a dash of excitement. This iconic venue isn’t just a pretty face—it’s got everything you need to turn your special day into a memorable celebration that even your most discerning Aunt Margaret will rave about.
Hotel Windsor has been dazzling guests since 1883. That’s right, it’s older than your grandparents’ favorite vintage wine. Stepping into this grand hotel feels like walking into a fairy tale, complete with marble floors that are so shiny, you might just see your reflection (and your nervous excitement). The Victorian charm is paired with modern amenities, so you get the best of both worlds: historical grandeur with Wi-Fi that won’t let you down.
No matter if you’re dreaming of a grand, Gatsby-esque affair or a more intimate soirée, Hotel Windsor has a room for you. The Grand Ballroom is so majestic you’ll half-expect Cinderella to show up. With high ceilings and stunning decor, it’s perfect for those “I want to feel like royalty” moments. For a cozier vibe, the Churchill Room is like the plush, elegant den of your dreams—ideal for smaller gatherings where everyone can feel like part of a VIP club.
Let’s get to the good stuff: the food. Hotel Windsor’s chefs are culinary wizards who’ll craft a menu that makes your taste buds do a happy dance. Whether you’re into elaborate canapés, mouth-watering mains, or desserts that make you consider a second helping, they’ve got you covered. And don’t even get me started on the beverage package—fine wines and cocktails that will have everyone toasting to your love story.
When it comes to service, Hotel Windsor has got it nailed. The event planners are like wedding superheroes, swooping in to manage all the details so you don’t have to lift a finger (except maybe to hold your champagne). They’ll handle everything from coordinating with vendors to keeping the timeline running smoothly. You’ll feel like a star on your big day, minus the paparazzi.
After the big day, your guests can crash in style. Hotel Windsor’s rooms are so luxurious, your friends and family might try to extend their stay (who can blame them with that level of comfort?). The elegant decor ensures everyone gets a taste of the high life—making them all the more grateful for your choice of venue.
The hotel’s central location is like a cherry on top. It’s super convenient for exploring Melbourne’s hotspots, and it’s also a fantastic backdrop for wedding photos. Imagine your wedding snaps with Melbourne’s vibrant cityscape, blending perfectly with the hotel’s classic elegance.
Choosing a Hotel Windsor wedding means you’re not just picking a venue; you’re choosing a place where historical charm meets modern fun. Whether you’re planning a grand bash or an intimate affair, this Melbourne gem provides everything you need to make your wedding day fabulous.
So, if you want your wedding to be the talk of the town (and not just because of your questionable dance moves), Hotel Windsor is the place to be. It’s where elegance and excitement meet, creating a day that you and your guests will remember—and laugh about—for years to come.
Hotel Windsor website: https://www.thehotelwindsor.com.au/
Sep 1, 2023
With backgrounds in fashion design and photography respectively, Sumeyra and Daniels Provenance Wines Wedding in Geelong was only ever going to be a sublime and impossible mix of the macabre, and high-fashion. These artists gave us express agency to lean into what got our wheels turning in the first place in this craft – all things moody.
Photographed on a mix of digital and analogue film.
Enjoy.
Provenance Wines website: https://provenancewines.com.au/
Also known as Site 3a (See: Fyansford Paper Mill Wedding)
Address: 100 Lower Paper Mills Rd, Fyansford, VIC 3218, Australia
Phone: +61 3 5200 9400
Email: info@provenancewines.com.au
Website: www.provenancewines.com.au
See also: this Mitchelton Winery wedding.
Aug 26, 2023
Spring Street Events host a beautiful cache of unique wedding venues in Melbourne, with an emphasis on historic charm and bespoke, intimate hosting. The below images are featured from the Recoleta wedding of Hayley and Christian, overseen by the Spring St team.
Spring St Events, with its stunning wedding venues nestled right in the heart of Melbourne, offers an exceptional choice for couples seeking a wedding that’s sophisticated without overdoing it. For those who appreciate elegance with a touch of the city’s history, these venues provide a perfect backdrop—think intimate settings paired with views of the iconic Treasury Gardens and Parliament House. You won’t need to stress about packing your wedding into a tiny space or sprawling too far; the venues here strike a comfortable balance between opulence and comfort.
The rooms themselves are beautifully maintained, offering a modern touch while still preserving their historic charm. Whether you’re after a grand affair or something more low-key, these venues cater to different styles without pigeonholing you into a rigid template. The flexibility on offer is a real bonus—you can tailor your day to fit your personality without sacrificing that polished finish that Spring St is known for.
And it’s not just the aesthetics that make Spring St Events stand out. Their in-house catering team delivers some of Melbourne’s finest wedding menus. You’re not getting run-of-the-mill wedding food here. Instead, expect thoughtful dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients, with a focus on seasonal produce. It’s the kind of food that your guests will actually remember and talk about long after the big day.
All of this comes together in a location that’s right in the thick of Melbourne’s city centre. Easy for guests to access and perfectly placed for those timeless wedding shots around the city. At Spring St Events, your wedding is more than just a day—it’s a seamless blend of history, style, and impeccable service.
Spring St Events website: https://springstreetevents.com.au/
For wedding planners in Melbourne and greater Victoria, check out Weddings of Desire and these private property wedding venues.
Make an enquiry to Spring St Events: https://springstreetevents.com.au/enquire/
Aug 9, 2023
So, you’re getting married in Byron Bay – jolly good, congratulations on choosing a backdrop that practically does half the work for you – and leave the other half to us, your Byron Bay wedding photographer.
A good Byron Bay wedding photographer isn’t just someone who shows up with a fancy lens and a “say cheese (/choice of lactose)” attitude. They’re the ones who’ll translate the region’s relaxed charm into images that won’t make you cringe when you look back on them. Think of it as hiring someone to do for your wedding what Byron Bay does effortlessly: make everything look naturally fabulous.
We travel here there and everywhere, and no travel fees are applicable if you book us as your Byron Bay wedding photographer.
From Bonnie and Georges’ Cutler and Co wedding (not Byron Bay, how sneaky).
Top 10 Byron Bay Wedding Vendors
So, you’re tying the knot in Byron Bay—a place where the sand is whiter, the greenery greener, and the vendors hipper than a vintage record store. Here’s the inside scoop on the top ten wedding vendors that’ll make your Byron Bay wedding the stuff of legend.
There you have it—the crème de la crème of Byron Bay wedding vendors. With this crew on your side, your wedding is guaranteed to be less “been there, done that” and more “where’d you find these intergalactic craftwazards?”
A short hour towards Nagambie, see this Mitchelton Winery wedding. In the Yarra Valley, see the wedding of nurse and Olympic swimmer, Ella Walters and Mack Horton at the wedding of Ella and Mack. Further back into Melbourne, see this Cumulus wedding, Recoleta wedding by Spring St Events, and way out west near the heart of Geelong, the Provenance Wines wedding of Sumeyra and Daniel.
Aug 30, 2022
Pauline and Charlies majestic soiree at the Great Hall, for their National Gallery of Victoria wedding.
Also featured on Polka Dot.
Head here to see more unique wedding venues in Melbourne, and for a great pre-wedding location suitable for the NGV, see this Hotel Windsor wedding. For more Melbourne inspiration within a similar scope of style but scaled back in size, view this Cutler and Co wedding in Melbourne’s inner north.
National Gallery of Victoria wedding venue website: https://www.ngv.vic.gov.au/functions/weddings/
Aug 28, 2022
Planning a wedding is a bit like trying to find parking in Melbourne’s CBD – overwhelming, confusing, and, at times, downright exhausting. But what if you had a guide through this maze who not only knew all the shortcuts but could throw in some charm and style along the way? Enter Tori Allen Events – Melbourne’s wedding planning mavens who are more about making your wedding uniquely yours than serving up cookie-cutter ceremonies.
If you’re looking for a team that listens to your wildest ideas (yes, even that one about the alpaca ring bearer) and turns them into something genuinely memorable, Tori Allen Events is the go-to. Unlike those who throw around “dream wedding” like it’s on special at Bunnings, Tori Allen Events is all about nailing the details that make the day distinctly yours.
Think of Tori Allen Events as the cool, creative friend who just so happens to be an absolute pro at pulling off remarkable weddings. Tori and her team have an eye for detail and a flair for making even the most outlandish ideas work. Whether you fancy a Cutler and Co wedding with all the modern foodie trimmings, or something at Higher Ground that oozes urban sophistication, they’ve got you covered. And let’s not forget a Rupert on Rupert wedding for that chic, industrial vibe that screams Melbourne.
While Ever After Magazine might sing their praises, Tori Allen Events isn’t about to hand you the same old template. They’re more into listening to your particular quirks and finessing them into something you’ll be raving about for years.
Tori Allen Events isn’t the type to roll out some stock-standard approach. Picture this: instead of talking at you about seating charts and napkin colours, they’re pouring you a coffee (or something stronger) and chatting about what makes you tick. Whether you’re drawn to minimalist vibes or want something that borders on extravagant (but not, you know, too much), they’ll listen and then spin their magic from there.
Their approach is refreshingly collaborative, making sure you’re involved in the process without having to stress over the gritty logistics. You’ve got opinions, they’ve got the know-how – together, you’ll create something genuinely “you.”
Long before they were event masterminds, Tori Allen Events made their name in floral design, and they haven’t forgotten their roots. Their floral arrangements are the stuff of Instagram dreams – but not in a too-perfect-to-touch kind of way. We’re talking blooms that actually feel organic to the day, whether it’s a Higher Ground wedding that needs a bit of urban greenery or something a bit more free-spirited in an outdoor setting.
Their floral designs can elevate any venue, whether it’s the raw edges of Cutler and Co or something more relaxed yet chic. Forget the idea of stock-standard centrepieces – this is floral artistry that makes even your most discerning guests do a double-take.
Tori Allen Events has one serious ace up their sleeve – they know the best of the best when it comes to Melbourne’s wedding vendors. Need to lock in a Melbourne wedding celebrant who isn’t going to put your guests to sleep? They’ve got a recommendation. Hunting for a bridal boutique like Carte Blanche Bride that delivers style without the taffeta overdose? They’ll point you in the right direction.
When it comes to photographers, caterers, and all the other bits and pieces that make up your wedding day, Tori Allen Events works with some of the best in the biz. You can count on them to connect you with vendors who match your style, ensuring your wedding has a professional yet personal touch.
Tori Allen Events is one of the few wedding planners in Melbourne taking sustainability seriously. Their eco-conscious initiatives aren’t just about ticking boxes – they’re woven into everything they do. From sourcing local blooms to reducing waste, they’ll help guide you towards decisions that feel good for both you and the planet. If you’re the kind of person who wants to keep the footprint small (without giving up those lush flowers and excellent food), they’ll help you navigate it all without a hitch.
Whether you need someone to take the reins from the get-go or just want help pulling things together at the last minute, Tori Allen Events can handle it. Their flexibility means they can dive in wherever you need them – whether that’s full-service management or simply on-the-day coordination to make sure Uncle Bob doesn’t go rogue with the speeches.
On-the-day coordination is particularly handy if you’ve spent months planning and just need someone to make sure it all goes to plan. With Tori Allen Events in charge, you’ll be sipping champagne and enjoying your wedding while they handle all the logistics.
Let’s be honest – wedding planning isn’t exactly an art everyone can master. But Tori Allen Events makes it look like a breeze. Their ability to balance style with substance, all while keeping things personal, sets them apart from the pack. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach here – everything is tailored to reflect your unique story.
And unlike others who might get bogged down in the minutiae, Tori Allen Events has a knack for keeping the bigger picture in mind. They balance the logistics with creativity, ensuring your wedding isn’t just another cookie-cutter day but a celebration that feels like an extension of who you are. It’s about as close to effortless as wedding planning gets.
If you’re ready to explore the creative and bespoke wedding planning services Tori Allen Events offers, you can reach out to their team directly through multiple channels:
Tori Allen Events is ready to help craft a wedding that’s creative, personal, and full of Melbourne charm – minus the clichés, and yes, probably with the alpacas, if you really want them.
Aug 19, 2022
Not even an hour north of Melbourne is one of Victorias most marvellous regions for wedddings and events. Book Briars Atlas as as your Macedon Ranges wedding photographer.
Nestled in Victoria’s heart, the Macedon Ranges offers scenery that could make a poet weep—or at least reach for a thesaurus. Picture this: rolling hills, lush gardens, and enough historic charm to keep even the most skeptical in-laws impressed. It’s the perfect blend of nature and sophistication, like pairing a tuxedo with hiking boots.
Whether you want a venue that screams “rustic chic” or whispers “elegant sophistication,” the Macedon Ranges has you covered. Here are a few spots that might tickle your fancy:
The Macedon Ranges offers endless photo opportunities that will make your Instagram followers green with envy. Whether it’s the iconic Hanging Rock or the vibrant Tieve Tara gardens, your wedding album will look like a spread in a lifestyle magazine. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t want to inspire a little social media jealousy?
Just an hour’s drive from Melbourne, the Macedon Ranges is conveniently located for you and your entourage. The area offers a variety of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts, ensuring everyone can find a place to crash after the celebrations.
Choosing the Macedon Ranges means you get to mix natural beauty, historic charm, and modern amenities without any of the typical wedding clichés. It’s a place where you can make memories that will last a lifetime—or at least until the next big life event.
So, ditch the usual wedding shtick and go for something that will truly stand out. The Macedon Ranges is waiting to turn your wedding into an event that’s as unique as your love story, with a touch of humor and a whole lot of style. Start planning today and create a wedding that’s as memorable as it is Instagrammable.
Macedon ranges wedding videography: The Merri Studio
Macedon ranges Wedding venues: Lancemore Estate
Macedon ranges Wedding florists: Raven and the Rose (See also this Montsalvat wedding of Kate and matt)
Something different: It’s no Macedon Ranges, but this Eilean Shona wedding photographed entirely on Kodak film deep in the Scottish Highlands might tickle a bit of the inspiration muscle.
A short hour towards Nagambie, see this Mitchelton Winery wedding. In the Yarra Valley, see the wedding of nurse and Olympic swimmer, Ella Walters and Mack Horton at the wedding of Ella and Mack. Further back into Melbourne, see this Cumulus wedding, Recoleta wedding by Spring St Events, and way out west near the heart of Geelong, the Provenance Wines wedding of Sumeyra and Daniel.
May 17, 2022
Damian and John chose a Grounds of Alexandria (check out more venues on this writeup of luxury wedding venues sydney) wedding, and brought a gloriously raucous crew of loved ones from far and wide to celebrate (and us, coming up from Melbourne). Enjoy this gorgeous colourful soiree.
Wedding florals: The Grounds Florals
Dance troupe: Sirens Dance Company
Dessert: The Grounds Patisserie
Wedding DJ: We Play Records
Wedding celebrant: Jann Symes
Wedding venue: The Grounds of Alexandria
Planning a wedding at The Grounds of Alexandria? You’re likely eyeing this spot for its unique charm, and it’s not hard to see why. Whether you’re after a rustic vibe or a more modern setting, this venue does both—and quite well, might I add.
📍 Address
7a/2 Huntley Street, Alexandria NSW 2015, Australia
📞 Phone
(02) 9699 2225
📧 Email
events@thegrounds.com.au
🌐 Website
thegrounds.com.au/weddings
🕒 Hours of Operation
Monday to Friday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Saturday to Sunday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM
May 12, 2022
Amanda and James Panama Dining Room wedding – beginning at Hotel Windsor, and ending with the most fabulous aerial dancefloor efforts you ever saw. Amanda and James traipsed across a carefully planned group of the quaintest little slices of Collingwood and Melbourne for their portraits and intermission drinks, and gloriously shook off the… other aerial dance, of having to reschedule their wedding multiple times due to C… you know what.
Marvellous.
Amanda and James wedding at the Panama Dining Room is also featured on Together Journal. Head to the bottom of the post for a full rundown of their wedding team, some of Melbournes very best, who joined us on the day to throw their celebration together, overseen by wedding planner Events by Emma Currie.
Ceremony Location + Catering: The Panama, @thepanamadiningroom
Photographer: Briars Atlas, @briarsatlas
Celebrant: Ceremonies by Ally, @ceremoniesbyally
Styling + Hire: The Small Things Co, @thesmallthingsco
Planner: Events by Emma Currie, @eventsbyemmacurrie
Flora: North St Botanical, @northst
Cake: Katielou’s Cakes, @katielous_cakes
Stationery: Villa Studio, @villastudioweddings; State of Reverie, @stateofreveriestudio
Car: d’Luxe Classic Car Tours, @dluxeclassiccartours
Audio Guestbook: At The Beep, @atthebeep.co
Amanda’s Ceremony Dress: Linda Jane Doble, @lindajanedoble
Amanda’s Reception Jumpsuit: Julie Goodwin Couture, @juliegoodwincouture
James’ Custom made 3 piece suit: Angela Nicolades (6-8 Bonham Place, Richmond)
Ring/s + Amanda’s Earrings: Chloe McColl, @chloemccolljewellery
Shoes: (Her) Loeffler Randall, @loefflerrandall; (His) McCloud, @mccloudshoes
Tie: Gucci, @gucci
Makeup: Killer Queen Creative, @killerqueencreative
Hair: The Distinctive Dame, @thedistinctivedame
Panama Dining Room website: https://thepanama.com.au/
Panama Dining Room phone number: (03) 9650 1445
Apr 11, 2022
The sublime sounds of Renee and Jamie, otherwise known as Tobi Tobi music aren’t ones that anyone forgets terribly quickly. Flying their “covers for lovers” flag, they share their music at weddings and elopements from their base hometown of Melbourne, Australia, to destination weddings all over the world.
With a skillset covering double bass, vocials and guitar, Tobi specialise in all things serene and delicate, while doing incredible justice to the most diverse set of songs you can imagine. They can interpret everything from Beyonce to Ben Harper, fusing genres old and new, and making the music you love them most, inexplicably their own (and yours).
The understated grounding of Jamie fuses wonderfully with the ethereal, jazz-coloured vocals of Renee, in a way that has seen them quickly become adored internationally as possibly the best wedding duo going.
For a sample song list, head here to see a brief smattering of what they’ve been known to do.
Tobi Tobi music website: https://www.tobitobi.co/
Tobi Tobi music on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tobitobi.co
Make an email enquiry to Tobi Tobi: hi@tobitobi.co
DJ’s, duo’s, big bands and more – see this article for the best Melbourne wedding bands, and for more musician photography cast your eyeballs over to the Melbourne music photographer portfolio.
Nov 16, 2021
Bonnie and George preceeded their Cutler and Co wedding with a Burnley Gardens wedding ceremony, hidden in the heart of Melbourne along the banks of the Yarra River.
Wedding venue: Greenfields Albert Park
Wedding Celebrant: Veenstra
Wedding suit: YSG Tailors
Wedding florist: Little Stag
Wedding DJ: The Knave
Apr 6, 2021
Local happiness heroes & serotonin merchants Crystal and Luca brought a voluminous swag of their dearest to deep in Nagambie, for their Mitchelton Winery wedding. Barely a dry eye or southward bent smile in sight from top to tail, these two leant into joy following a string of postponements, and carefully overseen by the incredible culinary and venue management of Mitchelton Winery.
Enjoy.
Mitchelton Winery website: https://mitchelton.com.au/
Lower down in Victoria, see this Stones of the Yarra Valley wedding of Ella and Mack, and for something in the same category of classy as Mitchelton, see this Cutler and Co wedding of Bonnie and George.
Dec 17, 2020
These are four of my favourite Castlemaine Wedding Venues, including photos taken at each of brilliant couples choosing to have their wedding in this rustic region.
It’s really late at night, and i’m writing this article for you, dear human-person, on the other end, and i’m supposed to use all this coercive langue that apparently makes internet websites more engaging and all that (“you’ll never BELIEVE how rusticly-rustic to the power of rustic these are”), but, let’s skip all that cheap shit and get to the point, because you’re better than that (it’s a Castlemaine thing).
Castlemaine is incredibly rad, otherwise you wouldn’t be on this post or considering a wedding in the area, and I want to share some great spaces from this totally marvellous region.
I’ve spent a tonne of time out there, and as a general thing within the universe, a visit to it is generally recognised as being far more desirable than a slap over the noggin with a wet fish, so have a look at these scallywags that thought the same, and hire us to shoot your wedding.
Providence gully is a gem of the area, an incredible oasis established in 1858. With a rustic barn, olive grovee, pomegranite orchards and an endless variety of native greenery, this understated marvel is a must see.
I photographed the wedding of Amy and Bronson, held in this precious place, and featured in all it’s glory on Hello May.
Providence Gully website: http://providencegully.com.au/
Katie (othewise known at the inimitable Katie Marx flowers – see her here on Melbournes best wedding florists) and Greg run the Butterland Newstead wedding venue, and took it from an historic factory needing a little DIY love, into and incredibly versatile venue just one good road trip out of Melbourne
Iro and Alex got married at this spectacular property, and you can see more of these hilarious, stylish marvels featured here on Together Journal.
Butterland Newstead website: https://www.butterland.com.au/
The Diggers Store is something of an understated gem of the area, and resembles something of an impossible mix of tiny italian clifftop homestead, mixed with rustic outback, and just a couple of hours north of Melbourne.
After their Queenstown Elopement (also featured here on Hello May), Lilli and Jake brought the party, and their beautiful community, to the intimate grounds of the Diggers Store in Castlemaine, and loaded up with a bunch of strange old film cameras (see here why I shoot film at weddings) I came along for the ride to document it.
The Diggers Store website: http://www.thediggersstore.com.au/
This one slipped into this post, just. Even though it’s about 40 minutes outside of Castlemaine, it still qualifies and is well worth adding to the Castlemaine venue consideration pile. Home of beautiful hospitality, wood-fired pizzas, and plenty of beautiful portrait locations in the surrounding regions to run around in. Go for the woodfired pizzas, and get married on the side.
Kara and Marty had their Castlemaine wedding at the Cosmopolitan hotel in Trentham, and we whipped out for a beautiful portrait session in some unique spots nearby. Head here to see more of their Cosmopolitan Hotel wedding.
The Cosmopolitan Hotel Trentham website: https://www.thecosmopolitanhotel.com.au/
Check out this post for rustic wedding venues in Melbourne, or on the other side of Victoria, have a look at these Mornington Peninsula wedding venues. For something on the complete other end of the dial, check out this Melbourne city Luminare wedding. Featured Melbourne weddings: Higher ground and Rupert on Rupert.
Briars Atlas Wedding Photography – enquire at Melbourne Wedding Photography
Further south? Hire us as your Macedon Ranges wedding photographer.
Nov 15, 2020
Picnic Styling Co in Melbourne create popup picnic experiences for small weddings, events, brand activations, gatherings and more. The brainchild of Havana (also behind Saint Germain and partner to Gene, founder of my local caffiene dispensry Advieh), Picnic Styling Co hit the ground with their incredible innovative packages well before Covid forced everyone’s hand and could no longer book a wedding venue, and for the last year they’ve been Melbournes leading popup picnic creators. This is a great option if you’re looking for advice on how to get married quickly in Australia.
Marlena and Warwick had a small wedding created by I Do Drive Thru, after which Warwick took Marlena to a surprise picnic in Footscray styled and setup with love by Picnic Styling Co.
Picnic Styling Co have several offings, from group picnics, to couples picnics, outdoor movie night picnics, garden parties and more. You can choose from 6 styles and colour schemes, once you’ve selected the type of popup picnic hire that you’re after.
Picnic Styling Co offer a Marrakech collection and Luxe collection, which broadly cover more middle-eastern styling sensibilities as well as more streamlined, monochrome and boho picnic styling. You can customise any of the packages with a range of seating, cutlery, drink tray, cane-table options and much more.
Picnic Styling Co Website http://www.picnicstylingco.com/
Picnic Styling Co Instagram https://www.instagram.com/picnicstylingco/
Picnic Styling Co Facebook https://www.facebook.com/picnicstylingco/
Based in Melbourne, I photograph small weddings and elopements here there and everywhere for brilliant couples (just like you). Also head here to check out some of the best small wedding venues Melbourne has going.
Wedding Photography Melbourne: Briars Atlas – Enquire
Aug 28, 2020
Sydney is a city that knows how to flex its luxury muscles/slightly pointed architecture, and nowhere is that more evident than in its wedding venues. If you’re not into the “dream wedding” clichés and are more into statement settings where style and sophistication reign supreme, then welcome. Here’s a roundup of the top 16 luxury wedding venues in Sydney, where modern opulence meets timeless charm.
When it comes to luxury wedding venues, Dunbar House serves as a timeless favourite for those who appreciate a slice of history served with a side of impeccable modern hospitality. Nestled right on the shores of Sydney Harbour, this Georgian manor delivers on all fronts: views, charm, and a seamless blend of old-world elegance with contemporary luxury. For couples looking to host a stylish yet relaxed wedding, Dunbar House offers a picturesque setting where you can walk straight from your vows to the beach.
Couples who lean towards elegance and historic charm but without sacrificing modern convenience. They’re probably the kind who are over Pinterest and just want something timeless with a hint of Sydney’s harborside charm.
Dunbar House excels at sophisticated waterside views paired with exceptional service. It’s for those who appreciate the details – like custom menu tastings and polished, yet relaxed vibes.
The Georgian architecture is a treat for lovers of historic aesthetics, but inside it’s all about modern luxury. Think crisp interiors that set the stage for photos where both the venue and the couple stand out equally.
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If you’re after a venue that’s less ballroom and more urban oasis, The Grounds of Alexandria ticks every box. Located in the heart of one of Sydney’s trendiest suburbs, The Grounds is a lush, rustic haven that offers a completely immersive experience. You’re not just hosting a wedding here – you’re creating an event that feels like something straight out of an indie film. Expect industrial vibes, quirky decor, and gardens that are begging to be Instagrammed.
Urbanites who crave a wedding dripping in Instagrammable corners. You know the type: they’ve got their aesthetic down to an art form and want a wedding venue that can do the same.
The Grounds is an event unto itself. Here, you’re surrounded by flourishing gardens, rustic charm, and a sense of whimsy. Couples don’t just host weddings here, they create a fully immersive experience.
Everywhere you look, The Grounds offers a carefully curated moment – from the cascading florals to the distressed brick walls that add a vintage yet industrial vibe. Perfect for those who want their wedding to look as if it was featured in a glossy mag.
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When fine dining is a non-negotiable for your wedding day, Quay Restaurant stands as Sydney’s go-to venue. Renowned for its culinary prowess and panoramic views of the harbour, Quay is perfect for couples who want their big day to centre around exceptional food and unbeatable scenery. This iconic restaurant sits right on the edge of Circular Quay, offering an unparalleled vantage point of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
Foodie couples who want more than just fancy centerpieces – they want gourmet food that their guests will talk about for years.
The food. Quay doesn’t just serve food, it serves an experience. It’s fine dining at its absolute best, with panoramic views of Sydney Harbour as a tasty little bonus.
Minimalism meets luxury with an interior design that lets the view and food take center stage. The modern, open-plan setting makes the venue feel more like a sophisticated dinner party than a traditional wedding reception.
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Set against the backdrop of Sydney Harbour, Gunners Barracks is one of those luxury wedding venues in Sydney that feels like a secret hideaway with a touch of old-world charm. This venue offers a historic yet elegant setting for couples who want something intimate but impressive. From the sandstone exterior to the sweeping views, Gunners Barracks combines history with modern luxury, providing the perfect escape for couples seeking a venue that feels both exclusive and timeless.
This venue is for couples who appreciate historic charm paired with stunning harbour views. Picture couples who value tradition but aren’t afraid to mix it up with a splash of modernity.
Gunners Barracks combines history with luxury in a way that makes you forget you’re just minutes from the bustling city. It’s intimate without being cramped, perfect for smaller weddings that still want to feel grand.
Gunners Barracks exudes old-world sophistication with sandstone walls, grand chandeliers, and lush gardens that are perfect for ceremonies. The real star, though, is the terrace – offering sweeping views of Sydney Harbour that are impossible to beat.
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Nestled beneath the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Pier One Sydney Harbour is one of the top luxury wedding venues in Sydney for couples seeking a contemporary setting with breathtaking waterfront views. This venue offers a unique combination of modern design and iconic scenery, making it a standout choice for urban couples who want their wedding to feel chic, sleek, and unmistakably Sydney.
Couples looking for a cool, contemporary venue with uninterrupted waterfront views. They’re the type who value sleek, urban settings with a dash of sophistication and love that this place offers a different angle of Sydney’s iconic skyline.
This venue takes advantage of its spot perched on the water, offering flexible indoor-outdoor spaces that can host anything from intimate ceremonies to grand banquets. It’s where modern elegance meets waterfront views.
Industrial chic meets luxury here, with exposed beams, glass walls, and incredible views of the Harbour Bridge. It’s perfect for couples who want their wedding to be a sleek affair without the frills.
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For couples seeking a more cosmopolitan vibe, Establishment Hotel stands out as one of the most fashionable luxury wedding venues in Sydney. Housed in a heritage building, this boutique hotel offers an intimate, stylish setting for weddings that are more about cool cocktails and minimalist elegance than grand ballrooms. It’s a city wedding with an edge – where sleek design meets impeccable service.
Stylish city dwellers who want their wedding to feel more like an ultra-chic cocktail party. This venue is for those who love modern design, incredible food, and, of course, all the luxuries of a boutique hotel.
Establishment Hotel is a blend of old and new, located in a heritage building with contemporary interiors. It’s ideal for intimate weddings where everything from the food to the decor is cutting edge.
Expect high ceilings, marble floors, and a sleek bar that feels more New York than Sydney. It’s not your traditional wedding venue, but for those who want to go off-script, it’s perfect.
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For couples who want to celebrate their love surrounded by nature but with a contemporary twist, The Calyx is one of the most unique luxury wedding venues in Sydney. Situated within the Royal Botanic Garden, this venue offers a stunning fusion of nature and modern architecture. The Calyx is a statement venue, perfect for couples looking to add an innovative, stylish touch to their wedding while remaining rooted in the natural beauty of Sydney’s iconic garden.
Nature lovers with a taste for the avant-garde. The Calyx draws couples who want a striking backdrop but without the clichés of a typical garden wedding.
Located in the heart of the Royal Botanic Gardens, The Calyx is a botanical haven with a modern twist. It’s one of those venues that makes you feel a million miles from the city while being just moments away.
The venue combines large, open spaces with curated floral installations that set a lush and contemporary scene. The architecture is sleek, modern, and minimalist, allowing nature to shine as the star of the show.
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If you’re after a venue that blends historic charm with modern sophistication, The Mint is one of the standout luxury wedding venues in Sydney. Nestled within the heart of Sydney’s city centre, The Mint combines 19th-century architecture with stylish, contemporary event spaces, offering a venue that’s both classic and current. It’s perfect for couples who appreciate history but want a wedding that’s modern, elegant, and anything but dated.
History buffs who appreciate heritage spaces but want them with a clean, contemporary twist. It’s for couples who like a dash of history but aren’t ready to commit to a stuffy, old-school venue.
This venue blends old and new effortlessly. It offers historic charm without feeling outdated, making it perfect for couples who appreciate classic architecture but prefer modern amenities.
Think sandstone walls, modern floor-to-ceiling glass, and an outdoor courtyard that feels intimate yet grand. The Mint is perfect for sophisticated weddings where the venue speaks for itself.
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For couples who dream of a grand, castle-like setting for their big day, Curzon Hall is one of the most opulent luxury wedding venues in Sydney. This stunning heritage-listed mansion offers an elegant, old-world atmosphere with modern amenities to ensure that your wedding is as comfortable as it is awe-inspiring. It’s a venue for couples who want their wedding to feel regal and romantic, but with a sense of grandeur that’s uniquely Sydney.
Curzon Hall attracts couples who aren’t afraid of a bit of grandeur. It’s perfect for those who want a venue that feels like a fairytale but without the tacky vibes.
This sandstone castle-esque venue brings a sense of regal elegance to any wedding. It’s perfect for larger weddings where you need the space but don’t want to compromise on atmosphere.
Grand ballrooms, expansive gardens, and architecture that feels plucked straight from a period drama. Curzon Hall is all about drama and elegance, but in the best possible way.
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Perched above Chowder Bay, Sergeants’ Mess offers couples a luxury wedding venue in Sydney that’s as elegant as it is secluded. With sweeping views of Sydney Harbour, this venue provides a refined, private setting that feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Sergeants’ Mess is perfect for couples who want a wedding that feels intimate but with an air of understated sophistication, all set against one of the best backdrops Sydney has to offer.
Couples looking for sweeping views of Sydney Harbour with a luxurious, private setting (further down south across the way, check out these private property wedding venues in Victoria). This is for those who want their guests to be wowed from the moment they step inside.
The panoramic views are front and center here. The venue offers both indoor and outdoor spaces, making it flexible for any weather, and delivers top-tier service to match the incredible views.
With floor-to-ceiling windows that open out onto a grand deck overlooking the water, Sergeants’ Mess is all about sleek luxury. The design is classic, letting the views do the talking.
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For those seeking the pinnacle of luxury wedding venues in Sydney, Park Hyatt Sydney offers an unrivaled experience. Located on the waterfront with panoramic views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, this five-star venue delivers on every front – from flawless service to world-class cuisine. The Park Hyatt is ideal for couples who want their wedding day to be a lavish affair in one of the most iconic and prestigious venues in the city.
Couples who want the absolute best of the best, with no compromises. This is for those who appreciate luxury in every detail, from the food to the views, and want to host a wedding where everything is nothing short of exceptional.
Located right on the harbour’s edge, Park Hyatt Sydney offers jaw-dropping views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, with service that matches the stunning location. This is the ultimate five-star venue for those who want to blend a contemporary aesthetic with high-end sophistication.
Modern luxury is the name of the game here, with sleek interiors, expansive windows, and terraces that make the most of the city’s iconic skyline. The hotel’s intimate event spaces cater to both small, exclusive gatherings and more elaborate affairs, with a strong focus on privacy and personalized service.
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For couples with a taste for modern art and contemporary design, the Museum of Contemporary Art is a standout luxury wedding venue in Sydney. Located in the heart of The Rocks, this venue boasts sleek interiors and one of the most coveted rooftop event spaces in the city, complete with breathtaking views of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House. It’s the perfect choice for those who want their wedding to feel chic, cultured, and undeniably stylish.
Art enthusiasts and couples who want a venue that feels more like a modern gallery than a traditional wedding venue. The Museum of Contemporary Art is for those who crave a unique and cultured backdrop for their day – think white walls, cutting-edge design, and a view that leaves guests in awe.
Located right in The Rocks district, this venue serves up contemporary style with an iconic Sydney backdrop. The rooftop terrace, which overlooks Sydney Harbour, is the perfect spot for couples who want their wedding to feel artistic and cosmopolitan, with the added bonus of impressive architecture and world-class exhibitions just steps away.
It’s all about modern minimalism here, with clean lines and expansive spaces that let you add your personal touch. The rooftop has arguably one of the best views in Sydney, giving couples the perfect combination of chic interiors and outdoor splendor.
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Set above the world-famous Taronga Zoo, Taronga Centre is for couples who want more than just your typical venue – they want a wedding with a view and a unique experience to match. Overlooking Sydney Harbour and surrounded by natural bushland, Taronga Centre feels like a slice of wild luxury, offering up one of the best vantage points in the city. This venue is ideal for those who love the idea of combining the iconic Sydney skyline with an unparalleled, nature-inspired setting. It’s not every day you can get married with a zoo in the background, after all.
Animal lovers and nature enthusiasts who want a wedding with a view and a unique twist. Couples who choose Taronga Centre aren’t just about the zoo – they’re about making a statement with their surroundings and embracing the extraordinary.
Perched on the hillside with uninterrupted views of Sydney Harbour, Taronga Centre gives you the best of both worlds: stunning scenery and a memorable experience. It’s an ideal venue for those who want their guests to mingle with native wildlife, albeit from a safe distance, while enjoying panoramic vistas of the city.
The spaces are sleek and modern, allowing the natural beauty of the surroundings to be the focal point. The rooftop venue is particularly impressive for sunset ceremonies or evening receptions, with the sparkling lights of Sydney in the background.
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For couples who want a wedding steeped in history yet bursting with contemporary luxury, Intercontinental Sydney provides the perfect blend of old-world grandeur and sleek modernity. Housed within a 19th-century Treasury building in the heart of the city, this hotel is all about timeless sophistication and exceptional service. It’s the venue for couples who want to impress their guests with a venue that feels iconic yet accessible, steeped in tradition but boasting all the comforts of a luxury hotel.
Couples who appreciate history and elegance but still want that luxury hotel experience. This venue is for those who love a touch of old-world charm without sacrificing modern-day comforts.
Housed in a restored 19th-century Treasury building, the Intercontinental Sydney offers a mix of historical grandeur and contemporary opulence. Its unique combination of heritage-listed architecture and stylish event spaces makes it a top choice for couples wanting an elegant yet sophisticated affair.
With grand ballrooms and sweeping city views from the rooftop, the Intercontinental Sydney provides a seamless blend of classic architecture with sleek, modern touches. It’s a versatile venue that caters to both intimate gatherings and larger celebrations, all within a setting that screams old-world luxury.
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For couples who dream of tying the knot with the sea as their backdrop, Zest Waterfront Venues offers the perfect combination of relaxed coastal charm and polished luxury. With two stunning waterfront locations in Point Piper and Mosman, Zest provides a serene, sophisticated setting for weddings that embrace Sydney’s coastal lifestyle without skimping on style. This is the venue for those who want their wedding to feel laid-back yet luxurious, capturing the essence of Sydney’s beautiful harbourside culture.
Zest attracts couples who are all about a laid-back, waterfront vibe without skimping on luxury. They’re the ones who love the idea of a waterside celebration that’s refined, relaxed, and infused with a sense of easy elegance.
Zest’s two locations in Point Piper and Mosman offer stunning views and sleek interiors perfect for coastal celebrations. It’s all about sophistication by the sea, offering versatile spaces that cater to everything from intimate dinners to grand receptions.
Both locations feature contemporary designs with a nod to the coastal surroundings, making for a relaxed yet luxurious atmosphere. Think soft, neutral tones, natural materials, and floor-to-ceiling windows that let the outside in. It’s ideal for couples who want to celebrate with the water as their backdrop.
Contact Details
Contact Details
Address: 16 Phillip Ln, Sydney NSW 2000
Phone: (02) 7228 0540
Kittyhawk wedding gallery: Kittyhawk Wedding
Email: info@thekittyhawk.com.au
If your wedding plans include something beyond the standard garden party fare, then you’re in good company. From waterside escapes to hidden gems in the heart of the city, Sydney’s luxury wedding venues offer more than just a pretty backdrop – they’re your chance to create an experience that guests won’t stop talking about. And while finding the venue is important, don’t underestimate the value of having a top-tier wedding planner in your corner to bring it all together seamlessly.
Sydney is a city full of wedding planners who specialize in turning the luxury factor up to 11. If you’re planning to make a statement, consider partnering with planners like After the Rock, Couture Wedding Planning, or Anna Wang, who have experience working at some of Sydney’s most opulent venues. These planners can help you navigate everything from floral arrangements that aren’t plucked straight from Pinterest, to sourcing decor that’ll give your wedding an effortless elegance. For those who want something even more bespoke, check out Samantha Burke Events and Honey Lane for personalized touches that reflect your style.
This luxury wedding venue list should give you a solid foundation as you embark on planning your Sydney wedding. With a focus on personalized elegance and an avoidance of tired wedding tropes, it’s all about finding a venue that mirrors your style without overdoing it. Luxury is, after all, about a curated experience – and these venues deliver just that, without the overly pompous fanfare.
See this article on Unique Wedding Venues in Melbourne.
Aug 8, 2020
I Do Drive Thru is a worldwide wedding startup, helping couples get hitched in the middle of Covid19 while adhering to the restrictions and saving the partying for later. Since launching in Melbourne as a drive through wedding service, it’s spread nationally, and has since popped up all over the USA. Melbourne wedding celebrant Mel (who also moonlights as The Ceremony Store) runs us through why it started and how it’s helped couples all over the world.
Related article: read here to find out how to get married quickly in Australia (and book I Do Drive Thru).
I’ve been a Marriage and Funeral Celebrant for 15 years and own the companies, The Ceremony Store, The I Do Drive Thru and The Last Time. I am also a Celebrant Trainer with Australian Celebrations Training, Furniture Maker, Writer, Mother and Wife but I have always wanted to be an Electrician.
I am obsessed with learning as much as I can in this lifetime, I am perpetually curious. I try one new task every year until I get good at it, then I move on: I have learnt lock-picking, languages, carpentry, metal-detecting, and written a book.
When COVID 19 became a part of our world I was given medical advice to isolate which meant I could no longer do weddings. The next day I gave away/rescheduled 17 weddings and it was, to say the least; devastating, not just for me, but for my couples. Not only that, I felt horribly guilty giving my weddings to other Celebrants who could possibly get COVID.
That night I lay awake thinking about how I could keep those Celebrants safe and keep working from home during COVID.
To digress, I have always been a bit obsessed with Vegas style weddings and in my early Celebrancy career, I used to ride my red postie motorbike to weddings dressed as Elvis. It just seemed pretty natural that Vegas-vibed drive thru weddings and getting couples to stay in their cars while getting married and keeping the Celebrant distanced was the answer to all of my problems.
The next morning I texted 3 of the most awesome Celes I know, said let’s start this business, and all of them said yes without hesitation and 8 days later, we had a business name, logo, website and a press release. On our launch day we had over 32 calls from the press, 10 enquiries and booked our very first wedding.
Just by chance, my co-founders Kate, Zena and Klara were the perfect combo to get everything going, and the main driver between all of us was the passion to continue working while this crisis was going on around us.
We all love what we do and while we all kind of felt like sitting around grieving for what we had lost, we forced ourselves to build something new to fit with the changed times. Our catch cry became ‘we will work that out later’ as the business moved so incredibly quickly.
I honestly believe that anyone can do anything they set their mind to, impossible isn’t in my vocabulary. Any skill can be learned, any work can be completed no matter what limits there are, so we worked 19-20 hours days for that first week and we pulled it off.
The most rewarding thing about starting the business was the instant gratification we got with the media interest, we knew that our idea was good and the public interest confirmed that.
My gorgeous co-founders put so much trust in me right from the get go. We organised everything via phone, zoom and email, we have only sat in the same space once since we started the business, which is pretty incredible.
On launch day, seeing Klara on the 6pm news launching our business was such an achievement and then to replicate that model in each state over and over and then in the US has been amazing!
We now have 21 Celebrants working Aus wide with us and 2 in the US.
Celebrants weren’t the only people affected by COVID, it’s also the photographers, venue owners, car hire companies, florists, everyone has been affected in our industry. We worked hard to create a model that could encompass as many of these suppliers in local communities as possible, so they could be involved too.
A huge benefit to our business has been that we managed to snag some of the best photographers in Australia to work with us and these artists have provided some of the most epic photos of ceremonies.
Having these professional images to share with potential couples so they can see that tiny weddings can be so intimate and beautiful and moving has been incredible, a professional picture really is worth a thousand words.
Bringing work to all types of wedding industry professionals, while they were feeling pretty down about losing their own work, has given us all the warm fuzzies.
Our couples really range in age, we have had couple in their 20’s to couple’s in their 80’s. The similarity between them is that they really want to get married, but feel like they don’t fit into the white wedding dress/getting given away by Dad/first dance scenario. We have had couples that have stayed in their car for the ceremony, gotten out and married under trees, created convoys so family and friends can come and watch and couples have arrived via cars, helicopters, motorbikes and bicycles.
My fave couple so far is a couple where the Bride recently became paraplegic and she is still getting used to navigating new places and feels a little self-conscious.
Her Fiancé just wanted to marry her, because in his words, ‘she is the most amazing woman in the world’. When they heard about the Drive Thru and she saw that she didn’t have to get out of the car and worry about wheelchair logistics, she cried, because this was the only way she felt comfortable getting married.
COVID is going to be here for a while. It’s not going to magically disappear, and I honestly think this will impact the wedding industry for years.
In the short term we have the uncertainty of not knowing when we can go back to booking big celebrations and it makes planning pretty impossible.
Then when restrictions are lifted then yes, technically, we can go back to bigger celebrations, but is it a celebration if you can’t hug your Nan when you walk back down the aisle? Is it a celebration if you can’t share a shot glass or eat bread out of the same breadbasket?
The effects of social distancing will continue to live on, especially when it comes to celebrating that way that we are used to.
A surprising side-effect to this whole COVID scenario, is that suddenly eloping isn’t taboo, eloping makes you responsible, kinda like a hero, you are protecting your community by having a small wedding and that shift in thinking has been kinda rad.
People have been eloping because there isn’t the stigma attached to it anymore, heck the government practically endorsed eloping when you were only allowed to have the marrying couple and two witnesses present.
My advice to couples during COVID has been to follow your heart and remember that there is a huge difference between a marriage and a wedding. (Check out Will and Jac for Melbourne wedding planning).
If you wanna get married, get married, do it, commit to your lover, that’s so important, don’t let COVID stop you. There is literally no better time to love and be loved than right now, having companionship during a crisis is what will get you through it.
When people ask what you did during COVID how totally romantic is it to say that you married your honey and then shacked up in iso together? (Side note – like this Blue Mountains Elopement).
If your heart is set on a wedding that encompasses family and friends, then wait, but wait until COVID is dead and gone and we can hug again. Have a huge wedding down the track, when you can handshake and dance, but you will have to be patient.
And for those that want both, do it! Have the most romantic, sweet tiny ceremony now and make it all about each other, then have a huge wedding party later on-best of both worlds.
Running a business during a pandemic is tough. Terms and conditions/your contract/Statement of Fees documents are everything. Mine was pretty broad but certainly never covered a killer virus!
I always say to other Celebrants be tough on paper, but soft in reality. You have to have your rules in place, but be flexible, don’t forget everyone is going through something and creating relationships, and word of mouth recommendations in this business is what it is all about.
I always rule with my heart and not my head, so I certainly don’t set the best example for other business owners, but I find if you treat people with kindness then that’s what you will get back.
I have always gotten more out of what I do for others, than what I do for myself, so to create a business that has helped so people feel good and have a bit of purpose during COVID has probably been one of the most rewarding things I have done for a long time.
I Do Drive Thru website
I Do Drive Thru instagram
All photos on this page are from I Do Drive Thru weddings by Briars Atlas. Images may be re-posted with credit and a link to this site.
For more info on how to get married during Covid 19 away from a drive thru wedding, check out these small wedding venues in Melbourne, and this information piece on having a Melbourne City elopement during Covid 19. For Australias best wilderness elopements, you can’t go past Tasmania’s iconic west coast – so check out this Cradle Mountain elopement in Tasmania.
To have your small Melbourne City elopement filmed by the best wedding videographers in town, check out Bottlebrush Films as they’re doing filming for overseas guests and relatives who can’t make it.
Jul 11, 2020
The Fyansford Paper Mill (otherwise known as the Old Paper Mills or Site 3a by Truffleduck) hosts weddings and events just outside of Geelong in the historic corner of Fyansford at Provenance Wines (take a peep at this Mitchelton Winery wedding), in what is an absolute little treasure of the area, just minutes from the Geelong city centre. Take a look at this Fyansford Paper Mill Wedding Pre-enactment with the inimitable Georgie Boy.
I spent half a day in it’s incredible stone walls with Melbourne florist Gina (Georgie Boy), making use of the space and each of us following our noses in our respective crafts, with no end-goal in mind but to make something together in the 3 hours spent there. More from this shoot and a little short-film we created at the papermill to be released soon.
Scroll to the bottom for information on hiring for a Fyansford Paper Mill Wedding (or epic battle, midnight ritual, the world’s your oyster).
Fyansford Paper Mill is something of an internet enigma, and has less of a presence than you might expect for a venue that resembles an impossibly beautiful run-down italian castle, just sitting at the edge of Geelong.
Dating back to the precincts industrial era, the Fyansford Paper Mills look like something more likely to have been plucked from the minds of Peter Jacksons set-design team than a venue just outside of Melbourne that you can actually hire for your wedding: enormous wooden beams, an impossibly high entrance divider between the two main stone rooms and a unique blank canvas unlike anywhere else.
Anyhow, you don’t need me frothing over it’s incredible blue-stone walls and regurgitating information you can find readily available on the Truffleduck website, but I will say that outside of an old palace on the side of an Italian cliff, there aren’t any venues i’ve been to that feel anything quite like this.
Lower Section – 200 guests
Upper Section – 160 guests
Cocktail Style – 380 guests
For venues like the Paper Mill outside of Geelong, see Alternative Wedding Venues in Melbourne.
Jul 5, 2020
The Yarra Valley is one of the most totally majestic regions in Victoria, which you already know if you’re planning a wedding out that way. Yarra Valley Wedding venues are places that celebrate the natural beauty of the area, as well as the unique food, wine, and accommodation.
Read on to find out exactly why these 5 have made it to my list. Each one offers something quite different. I obviously love wedding venues that have unique photo opportunities and sublime backdrops, and we are not short of them here. I also love it when venues have really thought about the couple and their guests’ whole experience, which given that the Yarra Valley is a little out of the city, is an important planning considerations. Whether that’s offering a bridal day room, onsite ceremony and accommodation, or an award winning dining experience, it’s those little extras that make your wedding in the Yarra Valley a brilliant experience for you and your guests.
As someone who grew up in the Yarra Valley, i’ve got a special passion for the are and it’s a treat to lay out some of my favourite spots in the region. These days I photograph weddings in the Yarra Valley year in and year out, (but a couple of decades ago it was tearing around the streets on a BMX instead).
To either of those, it’s got a special place in my heart and if it doesn’t yet have one in yours, it soon will.
These Yarra Valley wedding venues are some of the best wedding locations Australia has to offer, let alone in Victoria. I’ve photographed a fair few Yarra Valley winery weddings in my time. They’re stunning. The evening sun pirouettes through the vines, and if you’re lucky, drops an incredible rainbow your way (looking at you, hills of Zonzo Estate).
There are an innumerable amount of Yarra Valley wedding venues to choose from, so I’ve compiled a short and sharp list from first hand experience for you to peruse and explore, sink your teeth into whilst navigating a latte like-say, etc.
Because this area of the world is so spectacular, i’ve also included some useful local insights to occupy yourselves with either side of your wedding day itself. It’s all well and good picking a ceremony and reception venue but that’s only half of the fun. Where will you get ready? Where will you sleep?
And.
Where will you cure the hangover?
I’ve looked into some dazzling accomodation for you and your guests to lay your heads. Being secluded and private (see these private property wedding venues) on a vineyard is one thing, but people not being able to find the place or their way back to bed is another!
The accommodation I’ve picked is local to your potential venues so people aren’t spending too long travelling before or after. I’ve looked at a range of affordability too so everyone can enjoy this wonderland. It’s little things like this I find help the day run smoothly and keep spirits high.
Remember, there is going to be a lot of sore heads the next day so I‘ve snuck in a few great places to catch your first married bite the morning after too.
All of these venues are pretty marvellous in their own way, so these are listed in no particular order. When you go and visit them you’ll know which one is the one, and I recommend booking a meeting with their events coordinator to show you around. The awesome crew that run them, the wild scenery, the charming ceremony spaces and the versatile reception areas will all ring true with you in one way or another.
I’m kicking off my list with these maestros because this is a venue for the photos and the food! My two pleasures in life. I remember turning up at the Zonzo Estate in the Yarra Valley for the first time and being pretty knocked out by it’s rolling hills. Set in an old milking barn the emphatic main building with sloped roof, huge glass panelling and sleek interior design makes for an idyllic modern yet traditional setting. They have a particularly cute outdoor area under festoon lights where newlyweds do the ‘zonzo twirl’ contrasted by the evening’s sweeping landscape.
A bonus of this estate is that you can opt to have your actual ceremony on site with a choice of three glorious spaces overlooking the rolling hills. No chance of anyone getting lost en-route to this reception. The three options give you the chance to express yourself that little bit more, and make for a venue that you can make your own.
The real dark-horse of this place though, the gem of Zonzo Estate, is their Italian dining experience. Let’s face it, no one wants shit food at a wedding (this can’t be drilled home hard enough ahead of time). If guests taste buds are being tantalised, then the vibe is too (if you’re looking at a venue that doesn’t have onsite catering, make sure you check out this post about the best wedding caterers in Melbourne). People need fuel for the dance floor! Zonzo Estate have won several awards for their wedding restaurant reception so it’s official that their food is to die for. They’ve been in the business over a decade and know what they’re doing. Zonzo have their own wedding coordinators on site to help you make your Yarra Valley winery wedding dreams come to life in the most seamless and stress-free way, and they run like clockwork.
Intermission: be sure to check out my larger post on Zonzo Estate.
I love the shit out of being a part of couples wedding here – beautiful industrial structures juxtaposed with all things rustic, and a moving platter of beautiful vibes all on the one property. While you’re on the Zonzo train, you might also like these beautiful rustic wedding venues in Victoria.
Zonzo Estate wedding venue capacity: 140 guests seated
Zonzo Estate Website: zonzo.com.au/weddings
Beforehand: be sure to check out my post on Stones of the Yarra Valley.
Stones of the Yarra Valley had cemented itself as a bit of an icon of the region, and is one of the busiest venues going. What this means for you, is that their wealth of experience in running lush, tightly run events, means that everything goes to plan. Their owner and sometimes coordinator, Vonnie, is just as much an icon of the industry as her venue.
It’s enormous grounds offer a variety of spaces to accommodate the day to your needs. There are several 19th century restored buildings with pristine gardens and vines, it really feels like being in Tuscany. These guys can host your whole day here or they even have sister smaller venues to host smaller reception only gigs. Whatever you want, the Stones of the Yarra Valley can deliver.
Let’s start with the stunning on site ‘Chapel’. It’s simple and elegant, the high ceilings and handcrafted woodwork make an alluring place to tie the knot in front of your nearest and dearest. After you’ve become newlyweds you can join your guests for drinks and little bites in the ‘Dairy’. I love this part of the day, there’s so much excitement and a proper buzz in the air. Go and give your guests a twirl in all your magnificence and lap up the love. The Stones of the Yarra Valley have absolutely smashed it when it comes to Yarra Valley wedding reception settings. Every seat in the house has a spectacular view of the scenery, all hosted from the sensational ‘Barn’. They’ve elevated the ceiling so it’s bright and airy in the daytime. They’ve got exposed wooden beams nestled against panoramic windows and impressive foliage externally. At night they have festoons and soft lighting for you and your guests to jive under, and for me to take some fantastically lit photos!
After all the fun is over, you can stagger down the road to the boutique ‘Farmhouse’ accommodation. I love onsite accommodation, it just takes one less logistical step out of the equation! Easy! Another logistical added extra these guys have is a bridal preparation room. Filled with mirrors and natural light, you and your party can be on site and get some extraordinary pre-wedding shots! Winner! Read below for more on their sister venues.
Stones of the Yarra Valley wedding venue capacity: 180 guests seated
Stones of the Yarra Valley Website: stonesoftheyarravalley.com
Yering Station is one of the oldest wineries in the Yarra Valley. This wedding venue is truely and naturally ceremonial. This quintessential ceremony under the trees could be in Italy or France. The orchard trees are ordered yet natural and needs minimal decoration (and the coverage stops everyone from squinting).
Walk yourselves across the grounds toward the impressive main building. The incredibly serene reception room and scape are the epitome of elegance. The architecture oozes class and the grounds are ornate and mature. Everywhere you turn there is a photo opportunity. I love taking the couple away for their personal shots around the grounds, there are some really delicately lit hidden spots for those golden hour frames that are just priceless. This place really is a jewel.
Lavished in history and grandiose views you just have to be there to soak it all up. The huge panoramic windows of the reception room mean you can be protected from the elements but cannot get away from the endless views. Every person in the room will be able to see them from any seat in the room. The exposed stone accents and overhead wooden beams look gorgeous in photos. They’ve got so much space for you and your guests to prance around in, it’s ace!
The little wins here include a bridal room which is light and airy, a wedding coordinator to help you from start to finish and get your guests in the right place at the right time and an unexpected quirk of a personal sommelier to match your menu to the gorgeous wines they have there! It’s not only the manicured grounds that are totally phenomenal, even the food looks incredible and sits perfectly on the long white tables. Have a look at their wedding packages here.
Also: check out my lengthy post on this Yering Station wedding.
Yering Station wedding venue capacity: 150 guests
Yering Station Website: yering.com
Before you dive in: check out this Immerse Yarra Valley wedding.
As soon as you arrive at this cataclysmic location you are wowed by one of the chapels (yes there are three options!). The ‘Vineyard Chapel’ has floor to ceiling striking windows looking out into the Sauvignon Blanc vines that draw you in. Then once you’re inside they frame the landscape astonishingly. This chapel keeps the elements out whilst still letting maximum nature in.
Their next option is the covered outdoor ‘Garden Chapel’. This is the perfect balance between inside and outside ceremonies. You’ll be wed in front of the most pristine ornamental lake and gardens. The photo opportunities are exquisite, believe me! However, if you want to go fully al fresco then their final ceremony option is ‘The Paddock’. You and your guests and nature, nothing else. I think it’s great when a venue has options, it really gives you a chance to customise your day to how YOU want it. It means that even if you’ve been to a wedding there before you can make yours different.
As I mentioned before, being in one place for the full day is a big bonus. This divine location offers 20 on site rooms and a stella restaurant alongside their multiple ceremony options. Their elegant and spacious bridal suite can be hired for you and your squad to get ready in before and you and your new husband to retire to after. No need to spend on transport, more time for epic dance moves! Winner! The 20 rooms also get complimentary breakfast in the morning which is pretty peachy too!
Finally, and probably most importantly, the main reason I love Immerse Yarra Valley wedding venue is because the family that owns it are stupendous. They are warm, welcoming and wonderful from start to finish. Making sure you, me and your guests have everything we need and more. You can’t buy that. There’s nothing worse than feeling stressed and disorganised with a wedding. Whether you’re having 20 or 220 guests, there is absolutely no chance of stress when they are involved. This is probably why they are so popular and highly rated all the time.
Immerse Yarra Valley wedding venue capacity: 220 guests
Immerse Yarra Valley Website: immerse.com.au
Rounding up this list is the incredible Vines of the Yarra Valley!
Vines of the Yarra Valley venue capacity: 150 guests
Vines of the Yarra Valley website: vinesoftheyarravalley.com.au
All of the wonderful venues listed on this page can cater to large and small weddings, whether it’s 20 guests, 30 guests, 40 guests, 50 guests, 60 guests, 70 guests, all the way up to 100 guests or 150 guests.
So you’ve chosen your beautiful Yarra Valley winery wedding venue and now you need somewhere for you and your lovely guests to sleep. I’ve had a little think for you, from personal experience and from extensive industry research I’ve compiled a few ideas.
When choosing where to stay you probably should think about being well rested and within a decent distance from the Yarra Valley wedding venue you’ve chosen so that…
a) you’re not late
b) you can get to bed easily after the most magically mental day of your life!
You also need somewhere that has enough room for you to get ready comfortably and that will make you feel special and relaxed on your first night as a married couple! Whoop! (The room needs to be bigger than the bed is what I’m saying). This is surprisingly hard to find sometimes. If you can get on-site accommodation then this takes out a lot of logistical planning and time from the day but not all winerys offer this. It’s more important to be in love with your venue than go for something less to your taste just because they have accommodation.
A great and often overlooked option is to get an AirBnB. There are some pretty jazzy options in this area. You can hire a huge one between you and your closest friends and family or even just a secluded private one for your first few nights as a Mr and Mrs! Make sure there is enough room to get ready in with lots of natural light and mirrors if you’re hiring it for the night before.
This ‘Rustic Luxury’ 6 person house is in the vines and is only a 10 minute drive from Stones of the Yarra Valley Winery. Or why not get yourself a secluded villa with a pool for you and the girls to enjoy before the big day? If you really want to be in nature and away from it all then Olinda Yarra Cottage offers a cute farm stay option for up to 6 people and has beautiful farm views for the pre-wedding photos and for soothing weary heads.
It’s your big day, spoil yourself! The Kangaroo Manor is a spacious, modern, wooden, secluded, sophisticated, mega-mansion with a pool in the hills. It sleeps 7 people and it’s about 35 minutes from the wineries I’ve listed hidden down a farm track. It is honestly breathtaking! You get so much more space for your money in these kinds of places rather than in hotels.
If you’d rather have most people in the same place then there are a plethora of really bloody nice hotels in the area too. The Chateau Yering Hotel is a slice of renaissance style luxury if that’s your thing. This is only a short walk away from the Yering Station Estate and is commonly used as their accommodation option. Their good relationship with the winery can really help with organising things too. Check your dates for this one though as it can also be used as a wedding venue because it’s so suave!
Healesville Garden Accommodation Houses have a fully functional ten bedroom house that can sleep up to 22 people. It’s only 15 minutes to the wineries and is ideal for keeping the family all in one place. Renting somewhere like this can be a very cost effective accommodation option and be a nice way to spend a bit of quality time with people around all the commotion of the day.
So you’ve picked your glamorous winery, you’ve sampled your delicious menu, you’ve booked your mother in law into a delectable hotel room. Now those hangovers need a good feed! Post wedding day breakfast spots can be fancy or laid back depending on your style. It’s a great time to have a giggle and swoon over the previous day’s happenings. How did Uncle Steve end up sleeping under the stars? How did your dress get so muddy? How fucking colossal was the entire day!? I live for this time. The pre-wedding stress is over, the months of anticipation have climaxed and you can now sit back and bathe in your honeymoon period. You might want to have a little family group get together or meet up with your old pals from school you haven’t seen for years. Whatever or whoever you’re eating with, you want it to be tasty and there to be (lots of) amazing coffee!
I’ve picked out 3 of my favourite brunch spots in the area where you can debrief with your nearest and dearest.
I know we’ve spoken about these guys already but they offer the full package and they have 5 insane venues to host your brunch the next day! And if they’ve already looked after your actual day then the coordination for the next day will be seamless. Talk about tasty convenience!
‘The Barn’ can seat 200 people so you can really continue the wedding properly the next day! It’s where you’d usually have your reception so guests will be familiar with where to go and you can all sit in the same place to avoid confusion.
‘The Stables at Stones’ can seat 63 people which is perfect for those more intimate weddings. It’s 19th century chic at its finest. Exposed brick walls, huge wooden stable doors and manicured hedges are just perfect for an elegant and relaxed meal with friends.
‘No.7 Healesville’ has epically high ceilings, sliding barn doors and walls of wine barrels which look really fucking cool! This is a spacious and airy location for 53 guests. Why not have next day tapas?!
If you’re staying at the Stones of the Yarra Valley accommodation you’ll find the Meletos locations very convenient.
‘The Warehouse at Meletos’ also seats 63 people and is a more modern option. Huge glass windows in a renovated building with chandeliers and a bar. This is a more relaxed vibe and can even be set up as a standing cocktail/mingling style if you want.
‘Meletos Cafe’ is its own entity. Very popular cafe priding itself on using local produce to create very tasty food. They are very accommodating vegan, vegetarian and gluten free without compromising quality. You can choose a more formal sit down or a sharing option.
Modern and mental food and design. Their eggs are fluffy and their sauces are swirly. They’ve got fruit bowls, avo smash and creamy dreamy coffee. If you want brunch done well these are your guys. They’ve got all the eggs and avo you can shake a stick at. They’ve got big breakfasts, little breakfasts and even a glass of bubbly if you’re not quite finished celebrating yet! Vegan and gluten free friendly options all over the place. Something delicious for everyone here. Their freshly made juices and milkshakes could just be the antidote you’re seeking. Yum! Take a look at their menu here.
An Alice in Wonderland inspired high tea experience! This isn’t your usually prissy cucumber sandwiches, these guys have taken afternoon tea to the next level. Get ready to go down the rabbit hole to find extraordinary cakes and bites swimming in smoke and mirrors. I’m talking about ‘Korean Fried Chicken’, waffles, and ‘Mad Hatters breakfast’ platters followed by ‘tweedle wheels’, ‘queen’ of hearts strawberry mousse and ‘Alice in Wonderland’ lemon and pineapple desserts. Accompanied by hypnotic ‘chess board coffee’ boards, ‘love potions’ and ‘white tea and butterfly pea’ lattes! They have some ace vegan and veggie options too which is often hard to properly accommodate. Have a look here to be sure to keep the giggles going into the next day!
Planning a wedding is a time to let your fantasies take control. Yarra Valley is an ideal location that can help your dreams for the day come true. The best weddings combine the couples personality to make it feel like it’s their own. Keep searching and don’t settle for something until it feels right.
What I love about our industry is the amount of raw inspiring creativity people bring to what they do. I have worked with some phenomenal wedding super stars in my time and I’m lucky enough to stay in touch with all of them. Looking for something in particular?
Drop me a message and we can send you some suggestions. You could also check out our other blog articles for more wedding inspo. We’ve recently released articles on unique florists in Victoria and music ideas for small weddings.
Briars Atlas – Yarra Valley wedding photographer – make an enquiry, and check out this Coombe wedding.
For more inspiration in Victoria outside of the Yarra Valley, be sure to check out this Sault Daylesford wedding, Tanglewood Estate on the Mornington Peninsula (head here for a roundup of even more Mornington Peninsula wedding venues), and this incredible rustic Castlemaine wedding venues.
Jun 30, 2020
In the middle of classic Australian expanse, about 2 hours west of Brisbane as the crow flies, sits Australia’s second largest inland city, and recipient of “most vowels in a city name” award. Welcome, to the gloriously rural region of Toowoomba, Queensland. Known for it’s Carnival of Flowers held annually in September, and having recently installed it’s own airport more and more people are getting to know this hidden gem of a town. Today though, we’re here to focus specifically on the BEST Toowoomba wedding venue, Gabbinbar Homestead.
Read this post if:
The majestic diversity speaks for itself. It’s the perfect middle ground between country wedding and city wedding. While Toowoomba isn’t a bustling hub of activity like Brisbane, Sydney or Melbourne, it has the most endearing rustic charm that you can’t quite find in those larger cities. This rustic charm honestly makes for the most heartwarming, down-to-Earth wedding ceremonies.
Shooting at rural wedding venues like this just make you feel like you’re part of something special: and part of that here owes to the almost total seclusion from the outside world of it’s private garden edges.
I’ve shot at countless wedding venues and no place quite makes you feel at home like the gorgeous Gabbinbar Homestead. There are so many hidden gems scattered throughout the venue, and the mystique of it all is something you have to feel to believe. You find yourself weaving in and out of the trees, snapping pictures of family and friends of the bride and groom in such a relaxed, magical atmosphere. Rural wedding venues just seem to bring out the best in people.
Gabbinbar’s all-inclusive wedding package, aptly titled ‘The Gabbinbar Experience’ is just that. It’s basically everything you need to experience the exact wedding day you want to bring to life. Specifically:
Plus all of those often overlooked, finer details that go into executing a flawless wedding that come with the territory of having everything in the one place.
Outside of this theres 3000+ rooms a stone’s throw away for guests and family.
So, if you’re thinking of escaping to the country for your wedding, short of the rural expanses of the moon there’s no better place than Gabbinbar Homestead.
Check out their wedding pricing and packages for yourself.
From a Toowoomba wedding venue abundant in charm and heart to a completely unique shotgun-style Melbourne wedding venue, visit this post featuring The Alter Electric.
Jun 19, 2020
The perfect wedding setting for thoughtful, contemporary couples who know how to appreciate a great piece of art, Heide Museum of Modern Art allows for both a stunning ceremony and an inspiring reception. The Museum boasts spectacular photography opportunities throughout the grounds and the Gallery. Let’s take a sneak peek at this amazing, artistic space and check out some photos from a recent Heide Museum of Modern Art wedding I was fortunate enough to capture.
Heide Museum of Modern Art brings an air of sophisticated creativity to Banksia Park in Bulleen, a north-eastern suburb of Melbourne. It’s not too far at all from the CBD – only around a 20-minute drive. It practically oozes convenience.
The Yarra River flows, snake-like, through Banksia Park, just a short walk from Heide Gallery. Bulleen Art Gallery and Garden is also within the vicinty. Another interesting point, Bulleen Hungry Jacks is only a short way down the road. Post-wedding burgs? Count me the hell in.
You’ve got a golf club nearby if there’s time to fit in a quick game with the lads (or ladies) the day before the wedding. And, as mentioned, Melbourne CBD is a short Uber ride away. You can get up to all kinds of mischief, eat some amazing pre-wedding noms and pick up any last minute bits and pieces for the wedding that may have slipped your mind.
As a wedding venue, Heide Gallery is the gift that keeps on giving. From the picturesque, natural grounds to the vibing Gallery and sculptures, this place is a photographers dream. Seriously. There are almost too many spots that are perfectly suited to capturing stunning images.
The Heide grounds and gardens span majestically across the 15 acres this Gallery calls home. The heritage gardens contain sprawling lawns, gorgeous flower beds and huge trees with trailing limbs that form cosy hidey-holes.
A river glade with towering trees and shrubs provides a shady spot for an intimate ceremony, or a wonderful photography or videography location.
The views from various sites throughout the grounds sweep across the surrounding park and provide a truly awe-inspiring atmosphere.
Upon gazing around the venue, your view will be obstructed slightly – for good reason – by contemporary sculptures and architectural wonders that are dotted throughout the grounds.
All your wedding catering needs will be taken care of by the Heide Cafe, the exclusive catering service for Heide Gallery weddings. Both the wedding ceremony and the reception are able to be covered. The cafe has an amazing range of seasonal produce with a huge variety of menu options to choose from.
The Cafe is also a great place to swing by for a pre-wedding brunch with the bridal party or a post-wedding coffee if you’re feeling a little worse for wear (horrifically hungover) after the previous night’s celebrations.
The Museum itself is an awesome place to spend any spare time and fight off any pre-wedding jitters. A range of indoor exhibitions including the Main Gallery and the Modernist House are home to some amazing collections of contemporary art. Wander the grounds to experience Rick Amor’s Running Man, Neil Taylor’s Theoretical Matter, and the rest of the outdoor exhibitions and sculptures that add an artistic, modern flair to the sweeping, naturalistic elements of the grounds.
It’s safe to say that this Melbourne wedding venue is the perfect place to celebrate love, serenity and an appreciation for delightful modern art.
Have you visited to the Heide Museum of Modern Art? What was your favourite installation? Let me know your thoughts in the comments.
For more images of a decadent art space, check out this piece by Firecraker Event on grazing tables.
Jun 8, 2020
Tanya and Ryan are Jiu-Jitsu diehards, who train together, and Mario-Kart together. These legends had their Two Ton Max wedding in Melbourne right at the 11th hour before Melbourne’s first Covid lockdown. In one of Melbournes most brilliant warehouse wedding venues, these two got it done in style with a crew of the best. I was lucky to be along for the ride with my dear old mate Michelle Grace Hunder, photographing this together for the first time in years (we started out as a wedding duo before going solo).
Enjoy this little peek into Tanya and Ryans Two Ton Max wedding, featuring Melbourne wedding celebrant Shannon Jeans running the show. For more beautiful warehouse, rustic, or alternative wedding venues in Melbourne, check out this post on unique Melbourne wedding venues, featuring a Rupert on Rupert wedding and Gather and Tailor.
Two Ton Max are also featured in this post on small wedding venues.
Two Ton Max website: http://twotonmax.com.au/
Mar 27, 2020
So, we’re in a pandemic. Apart from this bizarre scenario gifting us a new vocabulary including such terms as “social distancing”, it’s turned what should be a beautiful process full of joy (and at most, disagreements around what type of paper the invitations will be printed on) into a right old… let’s call it what it is – shitstorm. The beautiful upside is – and stay with me here – it’s opened the doors to many couples enjoying a beautiful Melbourne City elopement – while saving the party with their communities for later.
I’ve been fortunate to photograph a whole lot of weddings during Covid19 (nothing was ever gonna stop the love-train), and the general vibe has been one of optimism, and putting love first.
Forward thinking crews such as I Do Drive Thru and The Altar Electric have made a great space for making the celebration happen, which i’ll go into a little further below.
It’s difficult to say with conviction “currently, we can do…” as the information available and lockdown situation is changing very quickly (speaking of quick, see this post on how to get married quickly in Australia), with huge implications on the scale of wedding celebration that can be had.
Presently, though – at this very moment in time – Stage 4 lockdowns have put a temporary hold on things, but beyond that, Stage 3 lockdowns mean a smaller wedding – in effect, an elopement! And that’s good news, for a slew of reasons.
From my personal experience, while this might sound like a compromise, it’s one of the most beautiful ways to celebrate your marriage in an intimate way, have a bunch of fun with it, while rescheduling the big community side of it to a later date.
Consider getting the legals down, teaming up with one of our brilliant Melbourne wedding celebrants (who in the case of I Do Drive Thru, can live-stream your little moment of glory to family and friends far and wide), exploring some of my favourite Melbourne Wedding photo locations together, and then… updating that Facebook status.
This is about you two! What a beautiful time to look inward to that, and outward later on at whatever shape the party takes with your community. On that note, getting a head-start on your planning to that end, is time well spent. Do it for your own peace of mind, and don’t listen to anyone telling you to rush (there’s plenty of vendors for everyone).
If you need any assistance planning your Melbourne elopement or small wedding, pop me an email.
I’m a destination wedding photographer, based in Melbourne, and originally from the Yarra Valley. I’m lucky to have the best job in the world: photographing love and community, all over the planet. If you’re having a Melbourne City elopement, i’d love to have the honour of photographing it for you.
Make an enquiry about hiring us as your Melbourne wedding photographer
Feb 1, 2020
I’m honestly at a loss for words trying to introduce this Blue Mountains wedding venue. The Hydro Majestic Hotel lives up to it’s name and is a turn-key wedding venue that really does offer everything you need to pull off the most extraordinary wedding. The hotel itself presents some phenomenal photo opportunities, with a refined art-deco style. The real magic though is in the view. It really does have to be seen to be believed. Luckily for you, I managed to snap a few wedding shots at this larger-than-life Blue Mountains wedding venue a little while ago and I’m more than happy to share. Enjoy!
Ok, this is the part where I blab on and on about how incredible this venue is. It is definitely for good reason though, there really isn’t a single downside. So, if you’re not thinking of booking The Hydro for your upcoming nuptials, maybe turn away if you don’t want to know what you’re missing out on.
This wedding venue is an absolute BEAST. It is a towering ode to the dreams of businessman Mark Foy and his drive to install Australia’s very first Health Retreat. That’s what The Hydro is, first and foremost – a retreat. And a mighty enormous one at that.
In 1903, Mark oversaw the construction of the Hydro, pulling out all the stops. A generator imported from Germany, artworks from all across the globe, a dome shaped roof that was built in Chicago and shipped all the way to Australia, and a Swiss health professional to run the joint. He even renamed the township The Hydro was situated in to “Medlow Bath” to make it suit the overall vibe of the hotel. If that isn’t a baller move, I don’t know what is.
The venue has hosted a plethora of famous guests over the years including: Dame Nellie Melba the magnificent Aussie Opera singer, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle the creator of Sherlock Holmes, Australia’s first Prime Minister Sir Edmund Barton who actually died in the hotel in 1920. Sure, it’s a morbid claim to fame, but it’s a claim to fame nonetheless.
If the grandiose of this venue isn’t apparent in its history, then allow the photos below to show you just how remarkable this place truly is.
If you’ve been pining after a wedding ceremony with a view, there’s no better way to do it than right here in the Blue Mountains. The Hydro Majestic boasts a breathtaking lookout with a viewing platform that’s perfectly suited to hosting a wedding ceremony in the natural surrounds of the serene Australian bush.
Honestly, whilst capturing photos for this wedding I was constantly picking my jaw up off the floor. I couldn’t believe just how ridiculously gorgeous the entire place was.
The ceremony was backed by a tremendous valley that held an expanse of native bush lands. The Blue Mountains really is one of the most naturally beautiful places in Australia – it’s no wonder this spot was selected to host the grandeur of The Hydro Hotel.
When you book your wedding venue through The Hydro Majestic, you’re basically covered for everything. And I mean, everything.
The list goes on, my friends. I truly cannot recommend this venue enough, not only for weddings but for other events, photography shoots, high teas – anything that requires a spacious site that oozes class and style.
I’m going to leave you with a few more photos from this gorgeous Blue Mountains wedding venue. Once you’re done browsing through them why not check out this post on the awesome I Do Drive Through?
For more beautiful rural New South Wales weddings, check out this Kangaroo Valley wedding,
Jan 8, 2020
Zoe and Adam married at the incredible Hydro Majestic hotel, in New South Wales. Zoe’s bridesmaids wore stunning Elle Zeitoune Emerald Bridesmaid Dresses, in emerald green.
You can see Zoe and Adams full day on Vogue, and here we just wanted to share these incredible, shimmering emerald green bridesmaid dresses.
To hire me to photograph your wedding, enquire at Briarsatlas.com
Elle Zeitoune Website: https://www.ellezeitoune.com.au/shop/section/55/Bridesmaids
Head here for more modern wedding dresses and be sure to check out this incredible wedding dress by KYHA Studios.
Wedding photography Melbourne – Briars Atlas: Enquire
Apr 9, 2019
Considering a Deux Belettes Wedding, in the gorgeous Byron Bay hinterland in New South Wales?
On this page you’ll find some of my favourite photographs i’ve captured at weddings all over the world, including NSW and the Blue Mountains, and as far as the majestic Ravello castle, overlooking the Amalfi coast in Italy (which, if you have been to both those regions, you’ll find a little bit of a spiritual homage between them).
If you’re looking for a wedding photographer for your Deux Belettes wedding, I regularly travel to NSW, an can run you through how I work to make the process exactly as it should be: seamless, fun, with beautiful images at the end of it all, tailored to every type of couple under the sun.
My style is candid with a documentary approach, and every image you see on this page came from creating a space in the way that I know makes for images you’ll connect with: a space where you can be present with each other.
Deux Belettes is the place where all majestic, French inspired boho-wedding dreams come true. A frontrunner of the slow-building movement that began in the region in the 1980’s, all of the structures have been beautifully built over time using reclaimed materials as they become available, along with the iconic tunnel of plane trees that now give it an unmistakeable European feel.
Deux Belettes can hold up to 100 guests in a marquee, with on-site accommodation available as well.
Deux Belettes does not offer wedding packages, so they require that all vendors are booked separately. If you’re looking for a wedding planner or wedding celebrant, I can connect you to some brilliant options locally. But while we’re here, for Byron Bay wedding planning, I cannot recommend White Rabbit Projects highly enough – Bree and her squad are absolutely incredible and you *need* their experienced hands on your team.
Make an enquiry: https://briarsatlas.com/enquire
The majestic Deux Belettes is located at 2477/104 Victoria Park Rd, Dalwood NSW 2477.
Find them online at https://www.deuxbelettes.com/
Apr 2, 2019
Food And Desire are an incredible design-driven mob of party-starters and culinary masters, and they host the most progressive, design-minded weddings and events in Melbourne. I photographed the wedding of design-lovers Bianca and Harry held at their South Melbourne warehouse wedding venue, Half Acre.
This is what a Food And Desire wedding looks like. Some of the most incredible styling and florals i’ve ever seen (floral artistry courtesy of Flos Botanical – see her work here in detail on this post about the best Melbourne wedding florists).
Food And Desire website: http://www.foodanddesire.com.au/
Food And Desire on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/foodanddesire
Mar 28, 2019
Daniel and Darkus’s majestic Yering Station wedding in the Yarra Valley. Sharon the Celebrant came along to share their story with their community, and these two gents started off with a little portrait shoot nearby, before putting in a massive day of love and good times with their community.
For more Yarra Valley wedding venues, be sure to check out this Immerse Yarra Valley wedding and Stones of the Yarra Valley.
If lush greenery and wild landscapes and art deco perfection in the Yarra Valley (cue Burnham Beeches and the incredible Zonzo Estate) aren’t your thing, check out these unique wedding venues in Melbourne for some alternatives. For a country victoria wedding venue further north, check out this Sault Daylesford wedding.
Dec 1, 2018
You’re getting married, you’re looking for a photographer, and you want to know the right questions to ask, and what sort of things you’re going to get. Experience is important, and i’m lucky to have plenty of it since our laws finally changed to allow same-sex weddings. I’m a same-sex wedding photographer based in Melbourne, and have been fortunate enough to photograph the weddings of beautiful couples all over the planet. On this page you’ll see some beautiful same sex wedding photography captured in Melbourne, and as far as San Francisco, as commissioned by couples looking for gay wedding photography that’s a little bit different.
On this page, i’ve put together some of my favourite images from five same sex weddings held in Melbourne and Beyond.
To see what other couples have said about me, take a look at my Melbourne wedding photographer reviews.
If you want to plan either a wedding (large or small) or Melbourne elopement, reach out to me if you’re after a photographer. For small and large wedding planning, I recommend Melbourne wedding planners Will and Jac.
You can see Anna and Annas gorgeous same sex wedding, held at the unique Melbourne wedding venue Gather and Tailor, over here on Hello May.
Check out Daniel and Darkus’s beautiful Yering Station wedding in full.
Sam and Pauls incredible Thornbury wedding will be on my site soon, but in the meantime you can check out their brilliant celebrant, Matt Finch, over on my Melbourne wedding celebrants page. Also check out their drop-in to Kenny Lover.
Nov 1, 2018
Each year I head out to this beautiful slice of the Yarra Valley to photograph a Zonzo Estate wedding, and each time is so different from one another. Growing up in the Yarra Valley, it’s always a treat to be a part of so many celebrations there year in, year out. Read on to check out these Zonzo Winery Weddings.
I wanted to share three Zonzo Weddings in the Yarra Valley, that I’ve had the pleasure of photographing over the last few years, that are wildly different in style, so that you can get a great idea of how different folks with different tastes have all used Zonzo (and, how they look when I photograph there). Zonzo Estate has undergone further brilliant transformation in recent years, and has a whole spread of wonderful areas on site.
These Zonzo weddings have been featured on Hello May, Ivory Tribe, and Polka Dot Bride, so be sure to read on for the links to those to find out all the other vendor information of who put their beautiful days together.
1: Elisha and Daniel (featured on Ivory Tribe)
2: Sarah and Paul (featured on Polka Dot Bride)
3: Lou and Jamie (featured on Hello May)
These young lovers met at 19, and 15 years later found themselves at Zonzo, in a bohemian-vintage themed winery wedding. These two married at the barn at Zonzo, and they carried on the entire day before whisking over to Europe for four weeks.
Celebrant: Sally Hughes
Photography: Briars Atlas
Florist: Sugar Bee
Hair: Marie Uva
Make-up: Monica Gingold
The Dress: Mariana Hardwick
Shoes: Tony Bianco
Rings: Micheli Jewellery and Uniform Black
Bridesmaid’s dresses: Alice McCall
Menswear: Oscar Hunt
Catering and bar: Zonzo Estate
Entertainment: Phoebe And The Night Creatures
Check out their full feature here on Ivory Tribe.
These two marvels opted for a rustic wedding at Zonzo, piecing together many of the elements themselves, except for a double-rainbow over the back of the Yarra Valley, which joined the party just after the ceremony.
Photographer – Briars Atlas
Bride’s Dress: Custom Made by Sarah’s Mother
Groom’s Attire – Pal Zileri
Groom’s Tie & Bowties – OTAA
Venue – Zonzo Estate
See their full Yarra Valley wedding feature here on Polka Dot Bride.
A Naturopath by trade, the planning for Lou and Jamies Zonzo wedding put calm and health first in the entire process. With this in mind, it also meant that their day at Zonzo was littered with things that brought them both joy, including selecting carefully all of their vendors over 18 months. Lou and Jamie selected Zonzo Estate thanks for the venues ability to take care of everything from top to tail with the highest level of care, along with the added bonus of the spectacular Yarra Valley surrounds.
Photos: Briars Atlas
Bridal gown: Rue De Seine via The Bridal Atelier
Robes / getting ready tees: Peter Alexander and Cotton On
Lingerie: Simone Perele
Shoes: Alan Pinkus
Hair: Renee Camilleri
Makeup: Kath Carlin
Rings: Desi Desiderata
Bridesmaid dresses: Pilgrim
Bridesmaid shoes: Jo Mercer
Groom and groomsmen suits and ties: Briggins
Shoes: Aquila
Florist: Sugar Bee Flowers
Stationery: Ink Hearts Paper
Ceremony, reception and event stylist: Zonzo
Cake: Le Petit Gateau
Decorative elements: Kikki K
Wedding favours: Little Alchemy
Signage: Fox and Fallow
Entertainment: DJ Kwenda
Celebrant: Michael Goodluck.
Check out their full Yarra Valley wedding feature here on Hello May.
Make an enquiry https://briarsatlas.com/enquire
Zonzo website: https://www.zonzo.com.au/
957 Healesville-Yarra Glen Rd, Yarra Glen VIC 3775
Phone: (03) 9730 2500
For more beautiful Yarra Valley wedding venues, check out Stones of the Yarra Valley, this Mitchelton Winery wedding, this Immerse Winery Wedding, and Yering Station.
Heading further north in Vic? Check out these gorgeous Castlemaine wedding venues.
Oct 23, 2018
Located just 50km north-east of Melbourne, the Yarra Valley is the perfect road trip destination. With over 70 wineries (see Zonzo Estate, and this Mitchelton winery wedding), a huge range of tours, and some of the most quaint little hamlets this side of the moon, the Yarra Valley is a true hidden gem. Nestled amongst the hills and valleys of this spectacular region is the incredible venue Stones of the Yarra Valley, one of the best wedding venues the Yarra Valley has to offer, and a place where i’ve been fortunate to photograph weddings at year in year out.
So, here is a Stones of the Yarra Valley wedding guide (as much as we can cover in just a few page scrolls anyhow).
Planning a wedding can sometimes feel orchestrating a symphony after necking a keg of port. You’ve got everything from accommodation, venue, food and guests to consider – plus the addition of all the little things that seem to skyscraper into the clouds and out of sight. When all the little things seem to become too much, allow Stones of the Yarra to kindly step in and offer a helping hand, thanks to their well-oiled team of wizards helmed by venue owner, Vonnie.
Here are just a few of the convenient pre-wedding services they offer:
The entire Yarra Valley region consists of amazing wineries and beautifully scenic attractions that everyone can enjoy. If you don’t find yourself too entangled in the wedding prep itself (ie. if you have an awesome wedding planner), you can check out tours, trails and townships in the surrounding areas.
We were blown away with how perfect everything was and our family and friends are still talking about it.
Stones of the Yarra Wedding Clients – Phoebe & Rob, April 2017
When it comes to creating the perfect wedding atmosphere, Stones of the Yarra Valley run a super slick operation due to the services they offer. You are in consistently good hands when you choose to exchange vows and carry on celebrations at Stones itself or at one of their two gorgeous sister properties, No7 Healesville or The Warehouse at Meletos.
The lengths that this venue goes to in ensuring their happy couples are pretty wild, which everyone finds out after just one meeting with their planning team.
Depending on the Yarra Valley wedding package you choose, you could be basking in the following inclusions:
All this is just the beginning, which is pretty par for the course when the Stones ring leader Vonnie is driving things.
Now, I’m likely talking more to the wedding guests than the stars of the show here, because they’re likely being whisked off on an amazing honeymoon. So, what can you do at Stones of the Yarra once the vows have been exchanged, the food has been consumed and the bar tab has been exceeded?
Plenty.
As mentioned above, Stones of the Yarra Valley have five ridiculously charming dining rooms to book into for a celebratory meal. You can wander the property and take in the most amazing views. Your Instagram followers will be drooling, believe me.
Outside of the Stones of the Yarra Valley venue, you’ve got the entire Yarra Valley at your disposal! My top 3 suggestions for the adventurous at heart would have to be:
If you’ve made it this far and still have juice in the tank, be sure to check out this post on these Yarra Valley wedding venues for more wedding planning inspiration.
Check out a few of my all time favourite black and white photos. These beauties are magical monochrome majesty. For more Yarra Valley Wedding venues, also be sure to check out Immerse, Yering Station, and the brilliantly art-deco Burnham Beeches. For a country victoria wedding venue further north, check out this Sault Daylesford wedding.
Jul 15, 2018
Fremantle is one of the most marvellous places to have a wedding in Australia, and benefits from the incredible natural beauty of the surrounding areas of WA being at the fingertips, as well as the beautiful heritage architecture and layout of the old city itself. I’m hired every other year as a Fremantle wedding photographer, and you can see some of the wonderful wedding i’ve photographed there here.
While you’re here, for the best wedding dresses straight out of Perth, check out the inimitable designs of Jaime Lee Major.
Some of the historical streets of Fremantle look like they were plucked straight from a movie set. A quick stroll around them can get an incredible diversity of Fremantle wedding photos.
And, just around the corner, it changes again… from heritage, historical Fremantle streets, to beautiful old decaying urban walls.
Most of these were taken at the incredible Quarry Farm wedding of Stef and Zac. Quarry Farm is located in Whitby, slightly southeast of Fremantle and Perth. If you’re having a wedding at Quarry Farm, the beautiful Fremantle wedding photo locations above are a quick and easy diversion on the drive out there.
Here are some of my favourite wedding images that i’ve photographed from weddings here, there and everywhere.
Quarry Farm Whitby website: https://www.quarryfarm.com.au/
1475 South Western Hwy, Whitby WA 6123
You can book me as close or as far away from your wedding day as you like.
The best wedding venue in Fremantle is Quarry Farm.
I photograph weddings all over Australia, including Perth.
I regularly photograph weddings in Perth and Fremantle, and there are no additional costs or complexities involved. Reach out to me via my enquiry form over here.
Mar 25, 2018
Not only is the Cosmopolitan Hotel in Trentham, Victoria a top-notch, classic Aussie hotel, it’s also one of my favourite low key wedding venues in Melbourne. Located right on the corner of High St and Cosmo Rd in Trentham, this unsung hero of wedding venues really does put on quite the show (also check out this post on rustic wedding venues that features Cosmo).
The best part? It’s only just over an hour north-west of Melbourne’s CBD, near Castlemaine. Let’s check out the awesome Cosmopolitan Hotel wedding venue and all it has to offer.
The team at the Cosmo are absolutely wonderful, for one. They place such pride in their venue that they can’t help but go all out for their wedding clients. The level of care shown for even the tiniest of aspects of every wedding is astoundingly endearing.
The event team know their venue inside and out which allows them to perfectly place each and every decoration. They’ll also suggest the best locations for photographs and assist with any and all queries leading up to and during the big day.
The venue itself is absolutely perfect for an intimate country wedding because it holds such a warm, rustic air about it. If you want your wedding to bring back memories of gorgeous gardens, rural charm and warm firelight, this is definitely the Melbourne wedding venue for you.
The two main locations within the hotel grounds that are used for wedding ceremonies and receptions are the picturesque gardens and the charming stables.
The gardens truly are a sight to behold with their vast expanse and varied species of flowering shrubs and trees. Because of this they make a wonderful spot for wedding photos. They’re also honestly just a wonderfully calming, peaceful place to hang out.
The Stables, deary me, they are simply magnificent. Picture an old, weather-beaten barn built by hand from wood and other old-school materials. It’s well-kept enough to house up to 125 guests for a sit down dinner and a good old fashioned barn dance.
Fairy lights adorn both the interior and the exterior, adding a delightfully magical air to the entire event.
Even the simplest of decorations transform this venue into a lively, homely, spirited place to host a truly wonderful wedding.
The package includes delicious, local seasonal produce and a drinks menu featuring only the best wine, beer and cider from the region. So, the Cosmopolitan Hotel wedding in-house catering team is a force to be reckoned with.
A Cosmo wedding pays tribute to Victoria’s heritage in the most charming of ways. Events held here seem to draw on the historic nature of the pub itself. As a result, there’s no better place in Trentham to tie the knot that this majestic, historical venue.
And that’s the tea.
Feb 2, 2018
There’s nothing better than a rustic wedding. Surrounded by amazing antiques, homely vibes, and gorgeous Victorian era structures, you can’t help but allow yourself to be entirely engulfed by the country atmosphere. A well-done country-style nuptial celebration can have you feeling like you’ve been dropped right into your own Aussie fairytale. And let me tell you, the photo ops are to die for. Sprawling fields, old wooden sheds and stables, gorgeous native flowers from on-site gardens, delicious local menus – it all comes together to create a truly magical experience. So, without further ado, let’s check out the top 3 best rustic wedding venues Melbourne has to offer!
I’ve thrown in a few sneaky pics too so you can truly appreciate the warm, inviting atmosphere of each of these venues.
The Cosmo Hotel is one of those classic Aussie pubs that looks and feels like your grandfather might have had his first beer at, back in the day, and maybe one of the most unique modern rustic wedding venue melbourne or beyond.
It is a highly convenient venue for Melbourne-ites to travel to because it’s situated only about an hour out of the CBD. It’s classy yet relaxed and it has a plethora of exciting bits and pieces that are honestly a wedding photographer’s dream.
In 2005, the Cosmopolitan was ravaged by a fire that destroyed a huge portion of the venue. Unperturbed, the owners rebuilt the hotel, restoring it to its former glory, with the addition of a few modern features. Although it has been done up in recent years, this historic pub still holds an air of friendly, rustic sophistication. This charm truly lends itself to the bright-eyed, love-filled couples who exchange nuptials here.
The primary locations for a Cosmopolitan wedding are the Stables and the Gardens. These two locations simply have the most peaceful atmosphere.
The Gardens are impeccably kept and host a wide range of native Australian flora. Due to this, they are the perfect location to exchange vows and capture memorable photos. You may also be lucky enough to find your reception hall at the Stables decked out in some of the native flowers that the gardens have on show.
The Stables are truly breathtaking with their dim lighting, beautiful flowers and rustic decorations. The olden-day style wooden shed works together with these features harmoniously. This creates a mystically rustic setup for both the reception and dinner.
This delightfully quaint barn surprisingly seats up to 125 guests, perfect for a medium sized wedding. Inviting a few extra guests along is easy enough because the space can accommodate more for a cocktail style function.
The Cosmopolitan Hotel wedding packages are all encompassing due to their awesome inclusions like a wedding planner, local food and drink options, access to the entire grounds of the venue and more!
The Cosmo exudes such an air of homeliness and warmth that you can’t help but smile no matter where you are on the property. It’s definitely one to consider if you’re looking to venture to truly rustic wedding venues Melbourne adjacent.
Cosmopolitan Hotel Trentham website: https://www.thecosmopolitanhotel.com.au/
Also check out this Cosmopolitan Hotel Wedding.
About 3 hours north east of Melbourne CBD sits Victoria’s wine country. This region hosts many historic wineries and vineyards just waiting for travelers and tourists to visit. For many reasons, one that stands out as a truly remarkable wedding venue is the picturesque Brown Brothers Milawa Winery.
Since its inception in 1889 Brown Brothers has held its title as one of Australia’s leading family-owned wine companies.
Brown Brothers won the award for ‘Most Loved Brand’ at the 2015 and 2017 Australian Drinks Awards. They received this due to their mix of traditional wine making methods, plus an added innovative flair that supports experimentation. Their mix of old-school and modern techniques spills over into the physical attributes of their winery with expertly designed features. Whilst it is a rustic setting, sparks of contemporary design are scattered throughout.
This unique venue in the heart of the King Valley boasts sprawling green grounds with gorgeous gardens full of natives. Cottages and heritage sites make themselves known, standing tall on the lawns. Mountains surround the valley and can be seen for miles from anywhere on the Brown Brothers Milawa site.
A nearby forest of tall native gums makes for an epic photo shoot location due to an air of intrigue and mysterious adventure. Check out these bad boys…
Even after years of photography experience, my mind is still blown by how finding the perfect angle can eloquently capture such magnificent moments in time.
The luscious on-site gardens make for a truly heartwarming ceremony with gorgeous native trees and shrubs lending their old-school Australian charm. Large oak trees surround the gardens in order to provide shelter from the elements.
A beautifully restored historic barn is the perfect setting for post-ceremony festivities and a seriously delicious dinner. Decorated to the nines, this venue is the perfect balance of modern sophistication and rustic charm.
Stained wooden features and an old-timey cellar provide a visual contrast from the light and bright wedding decorations and attire. I honestly couldn’t have asked for a better venue when it came to capturing phenomenal wedding photos for this couple.
Choose from a range of packages and options including The Bridal Cottage, Prosecco Hour, a custom made wedding cake and a professional wedding planner in order to construct the perfect wedding.
Any couple would be #blessed to secure a wedding at this contemporary yet rustic venue. A wide range of wedding package inclusions, stunning grounds and photo locations that are out of this world make Brown Brothers, Milawa one of the best rustic wedding venues Melbourne has to offer.
Brown Brothers Winery website: https://www.brownbrothers.com.au/
This one-of-a-kind venue is located just under 2 hours out of Melbourne CBD allowing it to be an ideal destination for couples looking for a modern rustic wedding venue Melbourne and beyond. As you may have guessed from the name, Butterland is an old butter factory that has been masterfully refurbished as a rustic event venue (see also, this Butterland wedding of Iro and Alex).
Butterland was constructed in 1904 to accommodate an influx of settlers that came to Newstead as a direct result of the Gold Rush. It has been transformed from a dairy to a candle factory and now stands as a unique, multi-purpose venue for country-style weddings and other quirky events.
The red brick exterior, the chimney stack of the original dairy and the front signage have all been restored to their former glory in the recent restoration. Internal features have also been magnificently brought to life to accentuate the historic charm of a structure that has managed to survive throughout the ages.
The grounds of this stunning old building are nothing short of breathtaking due to the well-manicured lawns, stone walls, wooden structures and charming atmosphere.
A gorgeous garden and several homely veggie patches can be seen on the acre of land this venue calls home. Not only that, there’s a concrete pool hosted by an old sump tank and a disused railway line. These seemingly small features provide a spectacular opportunity to capture both the fun and sincerity of wedding celebrations.
The internal aspects of this repurposed butter factory are just as stunning as the external.
Because the venue is owned by a florist, you can look forward to indoor plants and flowers galore. A wedding with a botanically-forward theme would be perfectly at home here.
Exposed wooden beams and a mish-mash of chairs made from steel, wood and other materials add to the relaxed aura. Long wooden tables extend through the main hall to provide ample seating for guests.
The owners of this homely venue will work with you to ensure every detail of your wedding is truly yours.
Butterland isn’t just any wedding venue. It’s a wedding venue with history, personality and a suave charm that’s very difficult to resist. Quirky couples with a country-style wedding in mind will go nuts over this place. Honestly, it’s too much fun for its own good.
Butterland Newstead website: https://www.butterland.com.au/
Of the weddings I’ve been privileged enough to photograph, I often find myself looking back at rustic wedding venues with such fondness.
The simple, country vibe never fails to remind us of the importance of family, friends and home. It’s not just the amazing photo ops that draw me to these weddings. It’s the people, the history and the ability to connect so personally with a venue.
What are your favourite rustic Melbourne based wedding venues? Shout out in the comments!
Check out some pics from Tess and Sam’s stunning Kangaroo Valley wedding if you haven’t already…
For beautiful rustic venues specific to the Castlemaine region, check out these Castlemaine wedding venues, or on the other side of Victoria, if rustic is your vibe then you’ve gotta take a look at these Mornington Peninsula wedding venues.
Dec 27, 2017
Holding a Tanglewood Estate wedding is like holding a wedding at something straight out of the head of Tim Burton. True to it’s name, Tanglewood Estate is a layered landscape of brilliantly twisted and tangled trees with a whole bunch of options both indoors and out for hosting your Mornington Peninsula wedding.
On it’s 100+ acres, Tanglewood Estate rustic spaces include The Chapel, The Grounds, the Studio (a former artists studio constructed entirely of mud brick), and the Winery (while we’re on wineries, see this Mitchelton winery wedding). There’s a few little pieces about Tanglewood Estate’s story that are best left to them telling, but the one about their Chapel being purchased on Gumtree is a pearler.
I love shooting at Tanglewood Estate – apart from the enormous variety of spaces there, that sunset that drops behind the lake is out of this world and on our peninsula (check out these other Mornington Peninsula wedding venues).
I ran another series of wedding photography workshops at this beautiful slice of Mornington Peninsula wilderness – at it’s space called the Studio, and was joined by such a brilliant crew of Victorian creatives to spend the day together, such as the utterly inimitable Briggsy, Ashlee Hase photography, my dear mate Cass Sullivan over from Tas and so many more, and had the incredible skills of Humdrum Films (head here for more Melbourne wedding videographers) putting together a video of the day.
Here’s a little peek into the day. Huge love to Humdrum Films for capturing it.
For something more intimate on the Mornington Peninsula, view this Graceburn Tedesca Osteria wedding.
Growing up in the Yarra Valley and later towards the Mornington Peninsula, i’ve got a special love for those areas of Victoria, and it’s always a treat to photograph weddings out that way. Usually close to half of my photography year is spent across those two regions, and having spent so much time out there it makes perfect sense to host a wedding at Tanglewood Estate.
If you’re looking for a wedding photographer at Tanglewood Estate or the Mornington Peninsula, reach out and I can advise on how to go about it and how to make the best of your time out there.
Make an enquiry: https://briarsatlas.com/enquire
Tanglewood Estate website: https://tanglewoodestate.com.au/
Nov 5, 2017
Lauren and Nick had a Luminare Wedding at the iconic Melbourne rooftop wedding Venue, Luminare South Melbourne. These stylish legends had a wild and enormous day top to tail, with a Catholic ceremony nearby, before heading into the cavernous rooftop wedding event space of Luminare.
I tagged along with these maestros for the day, along with the marvels over at C2 Films.
Luminare website: https://luminare.net.au/
Luminare supports a maximum of 250 wedding guests. File this majestic joint under “decadent”, it’s a blank-canvas wedding venue that can be turned into anything you can imagine, but seems to have it’s spiritual ground in the opulent.
Take the iconic lift up and you feel like you’re entering Willy Wonkas great glass elevator.
Similar venues: see this Higher Ground wedding in Melbourne.
Luminare location: Cnr Browns Lane & York St, South Melbourne, VIC 3205
Luminare Phone: (03) 8416 9791
Luminare Business Hours: Mon-Fri: 6pm – 1am, Sat and Sun: 7am – 1am.
I’ve photographed so many beautiful weddings at Luminare and know a bunch of wonderful spots around the venue for your wedding portraits that don’t require you to tell your guests to have a 3 hour nap while you get your photos taken halfway across the country. South Melbourne has so many beautiful heritage homes, shopfronts, and unique gardens all within a short walk from Luminare itself.
To see some of these for yourself, head over to my post on the best Wedding Photo Locations in Melbourne, which also includes Google Maps pins and detailed location information.
Make an enquiry about Melbourne wedding photography
Planning a wedding? Congratulations! You’re about to spend a fortune convincing everyone you’re actually happy. But don’t worry, Luminare in Melbourne is here to ensure your big day is remembered for all the right reasons – and perhaps a few hilariously dark ones too.
Luminare isn’t just a venue; it’s an urban sanctuary where your dreams collide with Melbourne’s skyline. Located in South Melbourne, this chic spot offers panoramic city views that exude sophistication. Those floor-to-ceiling windows will make your guests think you’ve hit the jackpot, even if they suspect you’re still paying off student loans.
Forget bland ballrooms with musty carpets. Luminare’s modern design, complete with an expansive terrace, feels like stepping into a designer’s fever dream. Picture this: exchanging vows as the sun sets, casting an ethereal glow over the city—until you realize you’ve forgotten your vows and just wing it.
Let’s be honest, people come to weddings for the free food and booze. Luckily, Luminare has partnered with The Big Group, Melbourne’s top catering company, to ensure your guests are too busy eating to notice your cousin’s questionable dance moves. The menu is a culinary adventure that might make you question every meal you’ve ever had.
Imagine biting into a canapé so exquisite it makes you contemplate the meaning of life. The chefs at Luminare don’t just cook; they craft edible masterpieces that will have your guests Instagramming their plates faster than you can say “filtered.” They’ll work with you to create a menu that reflects your tastes, even if those tastes are as eclectic as your Spotify playlist.
The staff at Luminare are the unsung heroes of your wedding day. They glide through the venue like ninjas, ensuring everything runs smoothly while you take all the credit. From the initial planning stages to the day itself, the team is dedicated to making sure every detail is perfect—or at least close enough to perfect that no one notices the difference.
Need someone to subtly steer your drunk uncle away from the microphone? Done. Want custom lighting that makes everyone look like they’ve had just the right amount of beauty sleep? Consider it sorted. Their commitment to excellence might make you wonder if they care more about your wedding than you do.
Melbourne’s weather is as predictable as a soap opera plot, but Luminare has you covered. Whether it’s blistering heat or an unexpected downpour, the venue’s climate-controlled indoor spaces and stunning outdoor terrace ensure your wedding can proceed without weather-induced drama.
Located just a hop, skip, and a jump from Melbourne’s CBD, Luminare is easily accessible for guests traveling from near and far. With ample parking and public transport options, your guests have no excuse not to show up—unless they just really don’t like you.
Luminare isn’t just a wedding venue; it’s the backdrop for the most elaborately planned day of your life. With its blend of urban sophistication, stunning views, top-notch cuisine, and a team that’s as dedicated as your best friend should be, Luminare ensures your wedding day is memorable for all the right reasons.
So, if you’re ready to commit to both a lifetime of love and a slightly lighter bank account, Luminare in Melbourne is the perfect place to say, “I do… and pass the champagne.” Book a tour today and see why Luminare is the go-to choice for couples who want their wedding day to be an unforgettable blend of elegance, wit, and sass.
Got the gowns sorted? Make sure you check out these amazing unique wedding dress designs.
If you like Luminare, you might also like Metropolis Events, or just a little further out to the east, the wedding reception and function venue Vogue Ballroom. Also be sure to check out these Unique Melbourne wedding venues.
Luminare is located in the vibrant South Melbourne precinct, offering stunning views of the Melbourne city skyline.
Luminare combines modern, chic design with panoramic city views, exceptional culinary offerings from The Big Group, and meticulous attention to detail from their dedicated staff.
Luminare offers bespoke catering services through The Big Group, featuring innovative menus crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Yes, Luminare offers versatile spaces with climate-controlled indoor areas and a stunning outdoor terrace, suitable for weddings in any season.
Luminare is conveniently located near Melbourne’s CBD, with ample parking and public transport options available for guests.
Sep 20, 2017
Iro and Alex took their marvellous crew away for a few days to Newstead, in Victorias northwest for their Butterland wedding.
Iro and Alex’s Butterland wedding is featured on Together Journal.
Photographer Briars Atlas
Bride wearing Suzanne Harward
shoes from Aquazzura,
Blue Clutch from The Daily Edited,
Groom wearing Oscar Hunt Tailors, with RM Williams boots
Bow tie from MJ Bale
Ceremony location Butterland, Newstead, Victoria
Videographer Stevan Ostojic from Life in Light Films
Celebrant Megan Watson from Marry Me Megan
Entertainment Tom O’Dwyer (DJ)
Flora by Katie Marx Assisted by Leila Sanderson from @skinny_wolf
Hire Pepper Sprout Hire
Food/beverages/catering Pot & Pan Culinary Tailoring
Cake The Naked Orange
Ring/s by GP Israel Diamonds
Makeup Kath Carlin
Hair Diane Robertson
Fragrance Bride – Poivre 23 by Le Labo & Groom – Polo Black by Ralph Lauren
Bridesmaids wearing White Runway, Scanlan Theodore, Dion lee, Shona Joy with shoes from Tony Bianco
Groomsmen in MJ Bale and shoes from RM Williams
Newstead, Victoria, Australia
Phone: +61 (0)400 123 456
Email: hello@butterland.com.au
Website: www.butterland.com.au
Instagram: @butterland_
Address:
71 Tivey Street, Newstead VIC 3462, Australia
May 17, 2017
When it comes to a phenomenal wedding package, the team at Tuggeranong Homestead are not here to mess about. They’ve got some amazing inclusions, an awesome venue that’s perfect for capturing wedding photography and videography and an air of serenity that Darryl Kerrigan would be entirely unable to resist. Let’s take a look at some Tuggeranong Homestead wedding photos and learn a little more about the services they offer to couples about to tie the knot.
As far as the ACT goes, Tuggeranong is a delightfully natural area directly south of Canberra. It’s full of Nature Reserves and borders multiple National Parks. The various scenic drives and lookouts are all sights you must see if you visit Canberra at any point.
Tuggeranong Homestead is located in the very heart of Tuggeranong Valley, not even half an hour out of Canberra CBD and airport.
The Tuggeranong Creek runs but a stone’s throw away, adding to the already naturally peaceful setting.
The venue itself is a gorgeous rustic homestead on 70 acres of the vast, secluded Aussie outdoors. The Homestead and its surrounding features exude an old-timey flavour that radiates “home”, “love” and “welcome”.
With your wedding package you get exclusive access to all the on-site areas listed below. These are perfect for hosting events, accommodation and of course, capturing some epic wedding photos and videos.
There are so many bits and pieces included in a Tuggeranong Homestead wedding package that I simply cannot fit them all in one short blog post. Here are a few though, that should help you figure out whether this venue is the one for you and your partner…
And much, much more! Just head to their website to see all the other amazing inclusions on offer.
For a charming, serene, rustic wedding, Tuggeranong Homestead has everything you need and more!
Mar 30, 2017
For Harry Potter lifers Kate and Matt, a Montsalvat wedding was only ever going to be on the table. These two maritime history buffs and fantasy purveyors crafted an otherworldly soiree for their favourite humans inside the walls of this Eltham gem.
Photography: Briars Atlas
Bride’s Dress Houghton NYC
Bride’s Shoes Shoes of Prey
Bridesmaid’s Dresses ASOS
Bridesmaid’s Shoes ASOS
Groom’s Suit Peter Jackson
Rings Karla Way
Celebrant Laura Lehmann Presented by Rachel Semmens
Flowers Raven and the Rose
Catering Montsalvat
Entertainment Spotify | Venue & Catering Montsalvat
Owl Black Snake Productions
Hair & Makeup Sophie Knox
Bridesmaids Hair Saint Lawrence Hair
Address:
7 Hillcrest Ave, Eltham VIC 3095, Australia
Phone:
(03) 9439 7712
Email:
info@montsalvat.com.au
Website:
montsalvat.com.au
Opening Hours:
Monday to Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
See the Higher Ground wedding of Samantha and Michael, and this Provenance Wines wedding of Sumeyra and Daniel.
Feb 2, 2017
Carol and Dave had a beautiful intimate Superintendent’s residence Centennial Park Wedding in New South Wales, with and open invitation to their entire community of young and old. There’s always an extra unique and joy in celebrations where kids are invited (see kids at weddings for why), and the theatre that ensues is like nothing else.
Carol and David used this unique little corner of Centennial Park to host their wedding, at The Superintendent’s residence, and all the celebration, love and jenga-disappointment that came with it.
Also, every time I see the the word Superintendent…
Enjoy the images from their day, and while you’re at it, check out this Sydney Theatre Company wedding and Blue Mountains Elopement.
Superintendent’s Residence Centennial Park website: https://www.centennialparklands.com.au/visit/history-and-heritage/heritage-buildings-and-structures/superintendents-residence
Designed by architect James barnet, the Superintendent’s Residence was completed in 1892 at a construction cost of 1500 pounds. One of the more somewhat secret places within Centennial Park to host a wedding, the heritage building offers an incredibly beautiful backdrop, and can be easily scaled for celebrations of all sizes.
To have me photograph your Superintendent’s Residence Centennial Park wedding, check out some of my reviews, and let’s get myself and Nathan Kaso making magic with you.
Jan 19, 2017
It’s not all that often you get the chance to be swept into the wild world of consummate performers and their crew at Sydneys iconic Pier One wedding venue. Jane and Michael, incredibly eminent players in the music and theatre scene (Jane, travelling the world as a touring violinist and filmmaker, and Michael, amongst other things hand-picked by Brian May to front the Queen musical), had their Sydney Theatre Company wedding in a day of love, ceremony, and all the performative brilliance that goes along with having your extended community made up of artists and thespians.
Wild winds nearly blowing us off the pier, leading into late night anarchy with the Sydney Harbour Bridge as the backdrop in this brilliant warehouse Theatre Bar at the End of the Wharf wedding, and what a beautiful privilege it was to be the very two eyes to make record of it all.
As a destination wedding photographer i’m hired to photograph weddings all around the world , and that includes anywhere in Australia. Make an enquiry at www.briarsatlas.com, and check out this Blue Mountains Elopement, this Kittyhawk wedding and this Superintendent’s Residence Centennial Park Sydney Wedding.
Sydney Theatre Company website: https://www.sydneytheatre.com.au/
Sydney Theatre Bar at the End of the Wharf Wedding website: https://www.sydneytheatre.com.au/your-visit/the-theatre-bar-at-the-end-of-the-wharf
Aug 18, 2016
Sault Daylesford isn’t just the most instagrammable lavender field in the state, it’s one of the regions best restaurants and slices of country in Victoria. Jo and Mike decided on a Sault Daylesford wedding, and I hitched a ride and took some proof that somewhere in amongst the glorious food and lavender field jaunts, they also did the marriage thing.
Reach out to Jodi and Damien, the husband and wife powerhouse who run Sault Daylesford. After getting married there themselves, they fell in love with the place and bought it! As you do. This means the most wildly invested team deeply in love with the surrounds but hosting an incredible time for your wedding.
Sault Daylesford website: https://www.sault.com.au/
For more country Victoria wedding venues, check out Immerse Yarra Valley, Stones of the Yarra Valley, Yering Station, or for more industrial vibes, have a look at these unique Melbourne wedding venues. There’s something about the structure of Sault that reminds me of an incredible venue in Byron Bay: so check out Deux Belettes, and hire us as your Byron Bay wedding photographer.
Dec 28, 2014
Kristi and Phil headed to the Mornington Peninsula for their gorgeous All Smiles Sorrento wedding. I came along with a few cameras slung over my shoulders, and spent the day with these stylish legends and their community.
Mornington Peninsula wedding photographer: https://briarsatlas.com/enquire
All Smiles Sorrento website: https://allsmiles.com.au/mornington-peninsula/
For surf coast weddings in New Zealand, check out this Solscape wedding in Raglan. For something a little more rustic, check out Tanglewood Estate. Looking for more venue alternatives? Check out these wedding venues on the Mornington Peninsula.