Are you located in Yarra Valley , planning a wedding and looking for the Wedding Reception Venue? When you are planning your big day, you probably want everything just perfect. One of the best ways to make sure that it all turns out the way you dreamed it to select every vendor yourself personally. This way, you can choose the ultimate location, the best entertainment and the most delicious food, and craft your the perfect wedding day.
The Yarra Valley is my absolute favourite place in the world to photograph weddings. The scenery, the seasons, the unique local beer & wine and the bonus that it’s all in my backyard. Most of the venues are just 15 minutes from home.
We've created an ultimate list of wedding reception venues in Yarra Valley to save you time and money.
List of Best Wedding Reception Venue in Yarra Valley
The Riverstone Estate Wedding Reception Venue Yarra Valley
03 5962 3947
As you arrive at our sweeping, driveway, you will get your first glimpse of the breathtaking 360-degree views of the famous Yarra Valley. At the top of the hill nestled in 75 acres, of vines, you will be greeted by our enchanting bluestone storybook homestead with a soaring pitched roof, elegant bay windows and charming front entry.
Once inside you will find hardwood timber floors, with beautiful timber panelling and ceiling roses that add to the charm. The homestead has been decorated in luxe French provincial style, adding a relaxing feeling as you wander through the homestead. Our primary function light-filled filled with floor to ceiling French doors and windows that lead out wrap-around around so you can experience the best views in the Yarra Valley.
Inside the main reception room, you will find Australian hardwood floors and white panels along with a beautiful blue stone fireplace and bar that add to the homestead’s charm and warmth. Buildingregion’s on the reputation and region, The Riverstone Estate is known for producing exceptional food and wine, with breathtaking views no matter where you look.
Wedding Ceremonies
Make your Wedding ceremony genuinely memorable with an outdoor ceremony in front of the rolling hills of the Yarra Valley, or if the weather is inclement, another option is to hold it inside or on the deck. No matter which option you have, you will still enjoy the stunning views.
All our packages include your ceremony, and we have a range of well-known and trusted celebrants that we can recommend to suit your ceremony’s mood. If the weather is not ideal on your big day, we have a range of alternative options we can provide, to ensure that the weather does not affect your most special day.
Bringing your dream wedding to life at Riverstone could not be more comfortable, with our expert team ready to assist you.
Paynes Rise Wedding Reception Venue Yarra Valley
(03) 5964 2504
Paynes Rise Wines in the Upper Yarra Valley is a boutique winery specialising in small-batch wines produced from carefully selected fruit from their vineyard in Seville, Victoria. It is the realisation of many years of hard work, dedication and passion of Tim and Narelle Cullen. Paynes Re endeavour to produce varietal fruit-driven wines with complexity, that are expressive of the vineyards unique qualities and upper Yarra cool climate.
THE YARRA VALLEY
The year 1838 saw the first vines planted in the Yarra Valley. The Ryrie Brothers produced these at the now site of Yering Station. In the mid-1860s at the same time, our Thomas Payne was settling in Seville Hubert de Castella, and Guillane de Pury established St Huberts and Yeringberg vineyards. The area covered by these vineyards was 430 acres, thus providing a flourishing wine industry for the region.
The Yarra Valley can grow both the early-ripening varieties such as Pinot Noir and the later ripening varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon in many varying styles.
Other varieties grown in the Yarra Valley are white varieties of Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Pinot Gris, Riesling, Viognier, and Marsanne Rousanne and Verduzzo. Red varieties grown are Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Merlot and in lesser quantities Malbec, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc, Sangiovese and Nebbiolo.
In 1892 the Deschamps Brothers and David Mitchell (Dame Nellie Melba’s father)planted vineyards in Yering, taking the total cultivated area to 1000 acres by the century’s turn.
Stone of the Yarra Valley Wedding Reception Venue
03 8727 3000
With uninterrupted views across vines to the blue-tinged Great Divide, Stones of the Yarra Valley is located on one of the most picturesque and historic properties in the Yarra Valley, combining two superb venues – The Barn and The Stables at Stones – with a stunning rough-rendered Chapel and Dairy nestled under century-old oak trees.
Weddings at Stones of the Yarra Valley
Surrounded by century-old oak trees, vineyards and blue-tinged mountains beyond, from every angle you stand, there is something truly remarkable to take in. With its beautifully restored 1860's Barn, Stables, Dairy & Chapel all linked by European-inspired paths across acres of manicured lawns, Stones of the Yarra Valley is the perfect location for your wedding day.
The Chapel
Soaring ceilings, stained-glass windows and sweeping views across acres of vines, the Stones of the Yarra Valley Chapel are genuinely one of a kind. With seating on hand-crafted timber pews under a rustic chandelier, the Stones Chapel encompasses all of the romance, elegance and solitude of a rural place-of-worship.
The Dairy
Ever had time to fill in between a wedding ceremony and reception? At Stones of the Yarra Valley, this period just adds to the magic of the day, with guests invited to enjoy drinks and canapés in The Dairy, located between the Stones Chapel and The Barn.
The Barn
A short stroll from The Chapel past elm trees and fountains, a reception in the historic Stones Barn can accommodate up to 200 seated guests. Sumptuous menus, wine lists and unforgettable entertainment – all combined with spectacular views from every seat.
Projekt 3488 Wedding Reception Venue Yarra Valley
0400 215 785
Projekt 3488 exudes a feeling of warm welcome described by all who visit. Nestled between the Yarra Valley’s sweeping mountains, the converted Masonic Lodge embodies a perfect balance between the constructed and natural worlds. Regarding its use of beautiful raw materials, the stylishly eclectic interiors are an example of mindful engineering, featuring repurposed timbers, industrial furniture and contemporary lighting. The garden’s wilds counter this precision with a maze of snow gums, century-old grass trees, and interconnecting ponds.
The venue is designed for versatility. The gardens are perfect for cocktail parties in the sunshine at the viewing deck bar, or intimate connections around the roaring cast iron fire pit. The main hall features grand Oregon banquet tables on concertina suspension. When rolled back after dining, the dance floor begins. No matter the season, Projekt 3488 provides a relaxing sense of privacy that encourages uninhibited celebration.
Our events team pride ourselves on artistic innovation and find pleasure in the creative process. We aspire to create a space of comfort for each one of our guests and guide you through an unforgettable event from start to finish.
Yarra Range Estate Wedding Reception Venue Yarra Valley
(03) 9752 0683
WEDDINGS
Our personalised service and attention to detail are what sets us apart. Work closely with our award-winning wedding planner and wedding coordinator, who are on hand seven days a week to help you create your perfect wedding. Offering five ceremony locations and stunning fairy-lit reception centre with breathtaking views, Yarra Ranges Estate is the perfect canvas to bring your Pinterest dreams to life.
Party the night away on the fairy-lit dancefloor. Add your flair with plenty of space for lawn games, photo booths and more. Our fully inclusive packages have everything you will need! An excellent beverage package offered 15 beers and ciders plus a selection of our estate wines and sparkling. Our food uses the best quality ingredients available, with the menu changing regularly. Our food is fundamental to us being influenced by our European background of Italian and Austrian.
FUNCTIONS & EVENTS
We cater for engagement parties, corporate events, celebrations of life, birthdays, vow renewals and many more! Our function packages are flexible and can be personalised to create your perfect event! With an extensive menu selection, your guests can be catered for to your heart’s content, and whether it be grazing tables, cocktail style, a 3 course sit down meal or a mixture of them all, we are able to tailor a package to suit your specific needs and requirements.
Our function room and extensive grounds provide the perfect place for any event, large or small! Our function centre operates as a restaurant on Sundays from 12 noon until 3 pm. Join us for a relaxing Sunday Lunch and wine tasting to speak to us about our private function packages.
Chateau Yering Historic House Hotel - Wedding Reception Venue Yarra Valley
03 9237 3333
Chateau Yering Hotel - Yarra Valley Accommodation
Graceful interiors accented with marble and antiques reflect the old-world charm of Chateau Yering’s rich heritage. Located on 250 acres of stunning Yarra Valley landscape, the property offers breathtaking views across the fields and vineyards. A perfect base to explore the region or unwind at the hotel and enjoy the comfort of our amenities and 32 guest suites.
We have implemented rigorous operational measures to safeguard the health and well-being of our guests and colleagues.
Yarra Valley Wedding Venue at Chateau Yering Hotel
For a quarter of a century, Chateau Yering has been host to brides and grooms beginning on a journey that will see a marriage last a lifetime. Chateau Yering Hotel sits in the heart of the spectacular Yarra Valley, Victoria’s oldest wine region on 250 acres of private land.
Today, it was catering for 20 to 120 guests, the property well suited to contemporary styles of weddings that continue to incorporate traditions; traditions that are highly esteemed and regarded as vital parts to your wedding. Once you have established your auspicious date, we look to host you in the region’s stateliest ballrooms. The Oak Room decorated to reflect Chateau Yering’s history through design, antique furniture, and fine art. It is indeed your perfect venue ahead of your happy and harmonious marriage into old age.
Creative menus crafted by Eleonore’s chefs will delight alongside your celebrations with family and friends. This marriage of old and new lends the venue a refined and understated finish.
The Little Vineyard - Wedding Reception Venue Yarra Valley
(03) 9739 6739
Location
The Little Vineyard is situated on the doorstep of the world-renowned Yarra Valley, forty minutes from Melbourne. We have spectacular views of the rolling hills and farmland, where country meets style and elegance. The Little Vineyard is an ideal and unique place to have your wedding or function.
Packages & Services
Your package will include exclusive use of the property, ensuring your guests’ privacy to enjoy their night. Owned and operated by Going Gourmet, food is an integral part of our business and your Wedding day. No matter the package you choose or food experience, you can rest assured all your guests will be well-fed, taken care of and delivered the best quality service in the Yarra Valley.
OFFERING THE VERY BEST IN SERVICE, MAKING EVERY FUNCTION TRULY MAGICAL
For all Weddings and Events held at The Little Vineyard, we offer all-inclusive reception packages, including your Venue Hire and Catering. These packages come with several inclusions as this ensures that not only are all of our client’s taken care of in absolutely all aspects of their Wedding or Event but that we are continuously going above and beyond to offer the very best in service and make every function we host truly magical.
We offer an extensive range of Chef designed menus with both sit-down and stand-up options, all made with fresh and delicious ingredients full of colour and personality. As we are owned and operated by Going Gourmet, food is integral to our business and something we take very seriously for all events we cater for. Our chefs cook every function fresh from our onsite kitchen and strive to exceed guests’ expectations and appeal to any & all taste buds!
Foothills Conference Centre - Wedding Reception Venue Yarra Valley
foothillsconferencecentre.com.au
1300 341 630
WEDDINGS
Nestled amongst 20 acres of natural gardens at the Dandenong Ranges’ foothills, Foothills Conference Centre is the ideal venue for your special day. Our beautiful grounds and elegant dining rooms will allow you to celebrate your magical day in the most picturesque settings.
We know how special your wedding day is, and we want to make sure that your wedding at Foothills is an event that you will never forget. From elegant and refined to relaxed and informal, Foothills personally tailors your ideas to represent your style and vision best.
Our amazing grounds offer picturesque photographic opportunities to capture every special moment of your big day. Say ‘I do’ in our brand new Silvergum Chapel, in the presence of up to 100 of your most loved ones. Visually striking, this chapel is bathed with natural light and is surrounded by native greenery.
De Bortoli Wedding Reception Venue Yarra Valley
(02) 6966 0100
The De Bortoli family story is one of determination and triumph that started 90 years ago in war-torn Europe and is now told, generations later, across Australia.
Starting with Vittorio and Giuseppina De Bortoli, our history encompasses immigrants’ universal story making good in an adopted land through hard work, innovation, and family and friends’ support.
From humble beginnings making small amounts of dry table wine, mostly for fellow European immigrants, De Bortoli Wines expanded and consolidated under Vittorio’s direction and Giuseppina’s energetic son Deen and his wife, Emeri. Their four children – Darren, Leanne, Kevin and Victor – joined the family business and developed De Bortoli’s reputation for premium wine, firstly through iconic dessert wine Noble One and then via the success of the cool climate wines produced at the family’s Yarra Valley Estate.
Today, as a fourth-generation contemplates entering the family business, De Bortoli Wine’s official motto, Semper ad Majora (“always striving for better”) and the unofficial one (good food, good wine and good friends) remain as accurate and central as ever.
Mary Brooke Manor Wedding Reception Venue Yarra Valley
97552755
MARYBROOKE IS NESTLED ON THE EDGE OF THE MAGNIFICENT SHERBROOKE FOREST IN THE DANDENONG RANGES.
The magnificent National Trust listed reception centre and guest house is the perfect one-stop destination for your wedding ceremony & reception, function or conference.
Built-in 1940, Marybrooke began as the grandest guesthouse in a chain of six guesthouses all using the pre-fix “Mary” designed and built by Eric Dowdle between 1927 and 1940. Built on an earlier guest house named Grendon which burned down in the 1930s, Marybrooke is registered as a socially, historically and architecturally significant property. Over recent years the property has undergone extensive renovations to restore and reinstate the building to reflect its original charm and elegance. With a restaurant & bar named PJ’s Restaurant, four function rooms and an indoor wedding ceremony area, Marybrooke also offers 20 boutique four-star accommodation suites.
YOU CAN ENJOY A MEMORABLE CELEBRATION AT MARY BROOKE MANOR.
As you take the short drive through the majestic Sherbrooke Forest in the Dandenong Ranges, you will be transported to a world away from city life.
Our Tudor style mansion awaits for your wedding, function, conference or High Tea – and of course, you can stay overnight.
RACV Healesville Country Club - Wedding Reception Venue Yarra Valley
(03) 9944 8888
Whether you're looking for the convenience of a Melbourne CBD location or the country charm of Healesville, RACV Clubs has a conference or event venue for you. Located in Melbourne’s centre, RACV City Club has a range of facilities and venues to suit your needs. Book your conference, meeting, product launch, award night, gala event, wedding or family celebration.
Conferences & Events at Healesville Country Club
The Country Club provides extensive choices for conferences, car launches, executive retreats, planning days and corporate golf days. Located just over 50 minutes from the CBD in the Yarra Valley heart, a world away from city distractions, it is the ideal location for your next corporate event. It is comprising of 14 unique event spaces, catering for both small and large conferences. The pillarless Ballroom boasts spectacular views over the Great Dividing Range with plentiful amounts of natural light, inbuilt AV and flexible space to allow cars into the room. Maximum capacity of up to 220 guests. Contemporary stylish accommodation, 80 rooms on site with king-size or twin share configurations, combined with exceptional recreational facilities, provide the ultimate conference destination.
Sutherland Estate Wedding Reception Venue Yarra Valley
0402 052 287
Sutherland Estate is a boutique, family-owned enterprise located at Dixon’s Creek in the premium, cool climate, wine-growing region of the Yarra Valley. The stunning cellar door is open for wine tastings and sales and is available for weddings, conferences, private functions and accommodation.
WEDDINGS & FU views, Sutherland Estate’s magnificent cellar door is exclusively available for your wedding or private with fine wines and stunning views function. Watch the sun setting over the Yarra Valley as you sip on sparkling from the spacious timber deck. The elegant, light-filled cellar door can comfortably accommodate up to 100 guests for a sit-down meal, or 160 for a cocktail style event. We have beautiful, beautiful weddings for larger numbers, using an additional marquee on our rear lawn.
An open fireplace brings a cosy, warm and romantic ambience to those cooler nights. On warmer, Summer evenings you can dance to your heart’s content, under the stars on the deck. Ceremonies may be held on-site and, with the exclusive use of the venue, it is a photographer’s heaven and versatile photographic opportunities. A variety of menus are available, from cocktail style through to delicious gourmet meals. Menus can also be designed explicitly to individual requirements.
Fondata 1872 Wedding Reception Venue Yarra Valley
03 9712 0742
WEDDING VENUES YARRA VALLEY
Located in Victoria’s stunning Yarra Valley, just 45mins from Melbourne CBD, Fondata 1872 is a unique venue, celebrating Italian food, wine and culture through Italian inspired dishes created from seasonal and local Australian produce. Our lively dining room is the perfect place to spend an afternoon or evening fantastic food, local wines and great conversation. Our restaurant is available for a la carte dining and functions and events: a birthday celebration in the bar, a christening in the Wellers room or a Spring wedding ceremony on the lawn followed by an unforgettable reception in the main dining room. Whatever your occasion, we can make it happen! Talk to us.
The Wellers room, for example, loves hosting special occasions: birthday celebrations, boutique weddings, christening, conferencing, networking events, life celebrations and long lunches for up to 60 guests seated or 70 guests stand-up cocktail. Our chefs and kitchen team can create a menu to suit your occasion, and our incredible events team can create cocktails and wines to be served throughout the event.
Or there is the Bar Room, the peaceful country feels with its red brick floors, wooden beams and rustic charm. This space screams “Celebration’’ with guest access to the alfresco terrace overlooking the lawn & vista. Mingle with family and friends while you watch the sunset over the valley. With the capacity to seat 45 guests or 55 guests stand-up cocktail, this space is the perfect place to enjoy a canape and a local brew.
Gum Gully Wedding Reception Venue Yarra Valley
03 9737 9524
Our stunning property is located in the Dandenong Ranges’ beautiful foothills in Silvan South at the Yarra Valley Wine Region gateway. Lots of love, dedication and extremely hard work has gone into the creation of Gum Gully Farm. With hand made mud bricks, recycled timbers and a collection of old artefacts throughout, creating a warm and intimate space for you to enjoy.
Combine that with two huge open fireplaces to keep you warm and cosy in the winter, and air-conditioning for added comfort on a hot summers day, and Gum Gully Farm is perfect for any occasion!
Wedding Packages
Gum Gully Farm has teamed up with award-winning Yarra Valley Catering to give you a range of dining options on your wedding day. Take a look at our wedding package details below for more info. If you wish to get in touch, please fill out the form at the bottom of the page.
Ceremony Locations
Gum Gully Farm offers a range of locations for your ceremony, each giving a unique atmosphere. But don’t worry, if the weather takes a turn, the Windmill Chapel has got you covered, always ensuring you have a backup plan.
Please browse below to take a look.
Potters Wedding Reception Venue Yarra Valley
(03) 9844 1222
When it comes to your special day, count on Potters to make it truly unique.
The Best Destination for a Wedding Reception in the Yarra Valley & Surrounds
When you think about your dream wedding reception, do you see yourself in a magical setting with close friends and family, surrounded by luscious gardens and stunning scenery? At Potters, we can make your dreams come true and help you create treasured memories that will last a lifetime.
Melbourne’s most unique Wedding Venue
Ceremonies
At Potters, we offer three ceremony venues for you to choose from, our chapel, native garden gazebo and our unique enchanting wisteria-draped courtyard.
Each of these locations offer fantastic photo opportunities and no matter the weather on the day you can be sure that you will be well looked after at Potters.
Reception
Your perfect wedding day will start and end at Potters. With experience gained over many years, our wedding coordinators understand the importance of the finer details, so we are on hand throughout the day and oversee every little detail of your wedding.
Our large dining room offers an unsurpassed dining experience. We boast an elegant yet rustic room with the romantic waterfall behind the bridal table, crisp white linen, French oak cross back chairs, two different styles of centrepieces and superb picture windows that frame the beautiful floodlit gardens and waterfall backdrop.
This is also the unique glass feature behind the bridal table with the modern filament bulb chandelier overhead, which comes together to create a cosy setting for you and your guests. Our dining room also hosts a sizeable wrap-around timber dance floor with a raised stage, complete with wireless microphone and coloured spotlight for your band or DJ.
Vue On Halcyon Wedding Reception Venue Yarra Valley
(03) 9726 7111
Welcome to VUE ON HALCYON
A contemporary wedding venue entwined with country style and elegance. Located at the Yarra valley entrance, vue on halcyon offers a wedding venue for those discerning couples who appreciate lovely food, great wine and friendly, intuitive service. It is the perfect location for your wedding ceremony and reception. imagine uninterrupted views of rolling hills and historic vines as you begin your
CEREMONY & EVENING RECEPTION
Choose to Say I Do at Vue in our stunning Chapel or the beautiful lawn ceremony area overlooking the vines and catering for 90-150 guests. All-inclusive canapes plus evening reception and showcasing elegant dishes complimented with estate wines.
MICRO WEDDINGS
Catering for your nearest and dearest of up to 50 guests. Set packages, including the ceremony and celebratory food and beverage packages.
Rochford Wines Wedding Reception Venue Yarra Valley
03 5957 3333.
At Rochford Wines, no event is too big or too small.
You are catering for intimate parties or extravagant celebrations from 10 to 500 guests, with your choice of event spaces. Choose from Isabella's Restaurant overlooking the green lawns, the Pinot Gallery located upstairs and our outdoor terrace with mountain views.
Unique catering and beverage packages available or customise one to suit your requirements.
At Rochford Wines, no event is too big or too small.
You are catering for intimate parties or extravagant celebrations from 10 to 500 guests, with your choice of event spaces. Choose from Isabella's Restaurant overlooking the green lawns, the Pinot Gallery located upstairs and our outdoor terrace with mountain views. Unique catering and beverage packages available or customise one to suit your requirements.
Fergusson Winery - Wedding Reception Venue Yarra Valley
03 5965 2237
Where character runs deep within our vines.
In a valley home to 50 wineries and 110 vineyards, rows of trees protect 20 acres of harvesting land. The first planting took place in 1968 by two brothers. They made home. They hung their family crest on a farmhouse wall, and they gave the land their namesake, Fergusson.
In the following years, the vineyard saw its first commercial vintage, a communal restaurant, the birth of their children, who along with their mother, would later become the keepers of the land. And then, the end of an era – the entire estate burned in the fire of 1989.
Not a single vine was harmed.
With every end comes the dawn of a new day. The following year saw the bearing of a record vintage. The next decades saw the ebbs and flows of winemaking, farming, cooking, community, and family life. It’s a rich history that continues to grow by preserving and transforming the land and the people who occupy it.
Today, half a century later, the family continue to share their passion for the drop through a vineyard experience that sees you eating, drinking and escaping into a natural and relaxed setting.
The Big Day
Our farmland is marked by the countryside, a backdrop for a chapel’s classic timber façade steeped in history and ceremonial wisdom. A few steps away, our Secret Garden waits for saps to rise, buds to swell and burst, and the smell of a new season to settle in.
Ours is a space for all kinds of weddings, from the classically beautiful, to the whimsical and creative, the rustic, vintage or farm style bash. The setting is lyrical, the food is sophisticated yet wholesome, and always made with love specially created to match a stunning wine list and the sound of a hundred clinking glasses.
Dark Horse Vineyard - Wedding Reception Venue Yarra Valley
0450 206 398
WEDDINGS
At Dark Horse Vineyard no expense has been spared in creating a Magical Setting for your wedding day. Situated on a Private Vineyard with white post and rail fencing and lush green lawns stands the new Wedding Barn. Comfortably seating 200 people and furnished in a Luxe Hamptons style, it is entirely air-conditioned and has an excellent marble bar.
Alowyn Gardens - Wedding Reception Venue Yarra Valley
(03) 9730 2400
About Alowyn Gardens
The purpose of the gardens at “Alowyn” is to provide an informative and educational experience for anyone interested in gardening and enjoying a beautiful garden. It has been designed with shade and comfort in mind. Plant names are on view to educate and inform visitors about the gardens.
Work first started at Alowyn Gardens in 1997 with extensive clearing and cleaning up of the weed and blackberry infested paddocks. A soil management plan began to revitalise the soil depleted of goodness over 20 years as a trotting stud. The first tree was planted in 1999.
Yarra Valley Wedding Venue
Discover the Beauty of Nature on Your Wedding Day
A Yarra Valley premier Garden Wedding venue for that very special day in your life. Have your ceremony in our gardens and celebrate with your family and friends in the Maple Courtyard. Seasonal gardens that are changing all the time provide the most beautiful setting for your wedding.
Wedding Packages
Whether you want a simple stylish wedding or a more elaborate occasion, please make a booking for a no-obligation site visit. Email us and we will send a wedding package to you.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Wedding Venue
1. Number of guests
You’ll need to pick a place that’s the right size for your number of guests. If the place is too small, your guests will be cramped. If it’s too large, the atmosphere will be dull, and it’ll seem like a significant number of guests failed to turn up. Before you start listing potential venues, come up with a rough figure of expected wedding guests.
2. Location
Review the location of your venue keenly because it can easily put your guests off attending your wedding. If your wedding ceremony and reception are to be held at two different sites, make sure they are close to each other. If the two sites are more than two hours apart, that could make things hectic for your guests. Think about the accessibility of your venue. If a large number of your guests are coming from far, consider choosing a venue that’s near an airport and is easily accessible by road. There should also be accommodation at your venue or nearby.
3. Budget
When choosing a venue, think about your budget. Ask yourself “Can I really afford this venue?” Don’t include venues you know you can’t afford in your list as that will only lead to heartbreak and a waste of time.
4. How hands-on you’re willing to be
The work you’ll be required to put in will vary from venue to venue. Consider a unique location like a barn. You’ll need to make lighting arrangements, clearing out the hay, hauling in the tables and preparing a backup plan, just to mention a few. If you’re not ready to become hands-on, such a venue or any private rental or marquee wedding isn’t suitable for you. Go for a hotel that may have a one-size-fits-all approach, but will take a huge weight off your shoulders.
5. Date
If you have a specific date for your wedding in mind, it could take some time to find venues that can accommodate you on that date. Some venues have online calendars where you can check for availability on your preferred date, month or time of the year. For others, you can email them for rough availability.
If you’re flexible with dates, you might find your venue much quicker. If you have a dream venue but it isn’t available on your date, or you can’t afford it, consider scheduling your wedding for an off-peak time like November, early December or February. There’ll be less competition for venues and prices will also be cheaper. You can also consider a midweek wedding though some guests may not be able to attend.
6. Style or theme
What type of event do you want? Is it going to be formal or informal? Do you want something traditional or modern? These are just some of the questions you should ask yourself in relation to your establishing your preferred style. By identifying the elements you’d like to incorporate into your wedding, you’ll narrow down your list of potential venues. For example, if you want something formal and ornate, large hotels, castles and stately homes are great options. If you prefer an informal ceremony, smaller hotels, country houses, barns and restaurants are more ideal.
7. Parking
In this day and age, parking is a critical factor when it comes to choosing your wedding venue. Ensure there’s plenty of parking space at the venue. Include a map in your invitations to show guests where cars should be parked. If your preferred venue does not have enough parking space, tell your guests about the entry points to parking lots that are close by. You may suggest carpooling or provide a shuttle service to ferry guests to the venue.
The perfect venue is waiting for you to find it. Take the above factors into consideration and keep searching. You’ll soon step inside a venue that you’ll fall in love within an instant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Couples spend between $12,343 and $14,006 on average for their wedding venue, according to recent surveys of brides. This cost includes any general location fee as well as food, drinks and incidentals like tables, chairs and linens.
The average wedding venue cost is $5,000 based on a low of $3,000 to a high of $12,000 for the venue's site fee, not including food and beverage. Location, demand, day of the week, inclusions, and seasonality all affect the pricing of a venue.
However, you needn't worry too much. Most wedding venues do hold civil ceremony licenses nowadays, whether that is a manor house, hotel or barn venue and everything in between. Most locations will offer couples at least one space that is licensed to host civil ceremonies.