Melbourne's Best Micro Wedding Venues

By Sally Hughes, Melbourne Marriage Celebrant

Are you planning a small wedding, otherwise known as a micro wedding?  

If you intend to marry before a small number of guests (twenty or fewer) and host a celebratory lunch or dinner in a private setting afterwards, then yes, you’re planning a micro wedding.

Increasingly, couples are looking to marry and celebrate in intimate settings and very often, they look to me to recommend an aesthetically-pleasing venue with private ceremony and dining areas, delicious food, an extensive wine list and excellent service.   Here are my recommendations.

- City -

W Melbourne 

- Inner East -

James Said (Armadale)

- By the Bay -

San Lorenzo - Sala Privata (Scoresby)

- Inner North / North East -

Farm Vigano (South Morang)

- Yarra Valley -

Michael Briggs Photography

Avalon Castle (Cockatoo)

Need a marriage celebrant for your micro wedding?

JULIA + KIT - Midweek Micro

By Sally Hughes, Melbourne Marriage Celebrant

When Julia and Kit shared their vision for their wedding with me, it was clear: they wanted a relaxed and joyous gathering where family could come together, enjoy good wine, delicious food, and lots of laughter. Their wish was for a celebration that truly embodied the spirit of Melbourne, and I couldn't have been more excited.

On a sunny Wednesday afternoon in Autumn, Julia and Kit and about twenty of their nearest and dearest gathered at the Melbourne Supper Club to enjoy wine, canapes and lively conversation. About half an hour later, as the final song in their pre-ceremony set played, I invited guests to replenish their glasses and gather near while Julia and Kit took their places before the iconic arched window.

Julia and Kit chose a micro ceremony, preferring not to delve deeply into the story of their relationship. However, they did allow me to share a few significant and amusing moments, which helped create a ceremony that was both personal and interactive, mirroring their easy-going and sociable natures.

What truly stood out during the ceremony was the range of emotions that swept through the intimate gathering. There was an overwhelming sense of happiness, but also deeply moving moments that highlighted the love and connection within this small group.

After heartfelt and humorous vows were exchanged, Julia and Kit’s scene-stealing son kept the laughs rolling with some off-the-cuff commentary and his unique style of ring presentation.

Julia and Kit were keen to include a further three children in their ceremony. When we discussed their ages and comfort levels I suggested that they be the ones to declare them married. I was confident that it would add a sweet and memorable touch to the proceedings.

Though I was ready to step in if needed, I knew after my pre-ceremony pep-talk that they’d nail it. They did.

After one of the funniest certificate signing sessions I’ve ever known (awesome banter Leanne and Leigh!), I closed the ceremony with a toast to the newlyweds.

As their guests refilled their champagne glasses (their celebrant included), Julia and Kit took to the streets of Melbourne for a photo session with the talented Julieanne Perara. They later rejoined their adult guests for a long lunch, their favourite pastime, bringing a perfect end to a perfect day.

Reflecting on Julia and Kit's wedding, I'm reminded of why I love being a celebrant. Their day was a beautiful blend of love, laughter, and genuine connection—a true celebration of family and togetherness in the heart of Melbourne.

Congratulations Julia and Kit. What a joyous and heartfelt celebration that was. Thank you for placing your trust in me to prepare and present your ceremony. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with you and your lovely family. xx

LOVE NOTE

“Sally is an exceptional Celebrant. She is engaging, funny, warm and thoroughly organised. She made sure that all the admin happened seamlessly in the background which took a lot of pressure off us and was greatly appreciated. ⁠⁠

Where her real value lies, though, is in the personal touch she offers and the ways she helped us plan and run our ceremony. She has a wealth of information available that helped us with our vows, and the order of ceremony - as well as great recommendations for photographers, florists and other service providers which we used. ⁠⁠She also helped with practical, logistical things such as furniture placement, where to stand and how to best put on our rings to ensure the best photos, patiently coaching the kids involved in our ceremony on their roles and lines… it really felt like she went way above and beyond expectations to ensure the day went exactly as we wanted it to. ⁠⁠

She then delivered the most heartwarming, humorous and fun ceremony we could have hoped for. She was warm without being cheesy, funny without stealing the show, flexible and adaptable and a lot of fun. She even went so far as to dress so as to match our autumnal theme.

⁠⁠We feel very lucky to have found Sally and don’t think there’s anyone who could have done a better job of making our day so perfect. ⁠⁠Thank you Sally, we are forever grateful.”
— Julia & Kit

Celebrant: Sally Hughes // Photographer: Julieanne Perara Photography // Venue: Melbourne Supper Club, Managed by Spring Street Events // Julia’s Outfit: Scanlan Theodore // Julia’s bag: Kit’s Suit: Calibre // Flowers: The Road Stall

MEGAN + TODD - Promises Under the Pier

By Sally Hughes, Melbourne Marriage Celebrant

Like so many couples over the past eleven months, Megan and Todd were forced to reimagine their wedding day. More than once. Government-imposed restrictions on guest numbers, an eleven-week-long ban on weddings in greater Melbourne and a Queensland border closure that prevented Megan from travelling to Melbourne, gave this very patient couple no other choice than to reschedule their ceremony.

As disappointing as that must have been, Megan and Todd hardy let on. Every time we spoke, we’d end up laughing at how hopeless their situation was (and then we’d usually chat about wine). I adored their optimism and their ability accept the cards they’d been dealt. They maintained that as long as they were married, on the beach, with their gorgeous sons present, they’d be fine. They decided to prioritise marriage over the party and I couldn’t have admired them more for it.

And so, we met underneath the Seaford Pier on a warm Summer’s morning in January and I presented their full “bells and whistles” ceremony to six people (because even though their guest list had been drastically reduced, their stories were too good not to share!). We all laughed (a lot!), we cheered and we all absolutely loved being “in the moment” in our secluded spot under the pier that morning.

Congratulations gorgeous Megan and Todd and thank you for inviting my elopement ceremony partner-in-crime, photographer Julieanne Perara, and I to spend such a special morning with you. Your wedding plans did change, but looking back on your ceremony, I can’t imagine it playing out any other way.

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Celebrant: Sally Hughes // Photographer: Julieanne Perara Photography // Megan’s Dress: Datto Bridal Designs // Todd’s clothes: Trent Nathan (Myer) // Megan’s Make Up: Erin Norman // Megan’s Hair: Olivia Norman // Flowers: Poppin’ Poppies // Jewellery: Michael Hill // Children’s Clothing: City Beach

Love Note…

“Do not look any further if you are wanting the best marriage celebrant in Melbourne! From start to finish, Sally had everything covered and made the whole experience and day absolutely amazing. And to say she is thorough is an understatement. Most catch ups were just a barrel of laughs, so was concerned that maybe we might miss something but quite the opposite. She talked us through everything and even a last minute change was not a problem. And she was only too happy to go and buy a new frock to match our colour theme. We can’t thank Sally enough for making the start of our day absolutely perfect!!”
— Megan

Considering eloping? Take a look at my latest offer: ELOPE WITH US

Wedding Day Regrets

By Sally Hughes, Melbourne Marriage Celebrant

If I had to do it all again, I wouldn’t change a single thing…

Yep, Kylie’s late eighties chart topper sprang to mind the moment I sat down to write this blog. While we know the pop princess wasn’t singing about her wedding day (insert sad face here), it’s something I hope you’ll sing from the rafters after yours.

When your big day is done and dusted and you’re sitting on a beach sipping mojitos and margaritas, reliving your celebration with your significant other, I hope you both agree that every single choice you made was spot on.  I’m pleased to say that this tends to be the case with almost every couple I work with.  Perhaps it’s because I attract easy going couples who trust me to do what I do best and who are open to advice. However, on occasion I run into married folk who tell me that if they had their day again, they might change a thing or two.

And so I thought I’d list the six most common wedding day regrets, as shared with me over the past decade..

1. We regret not hiring a videographer

Hands down, this is the regret I hear most. And for the record, it’s the only thing I would have changed about my wedding day. To be fair, when I walked down the aisle in 2006 social media wasn’t anywhere near as big as it is now. Insta didn’t exist, nor did those wonderful two minute highlight reels. Heck, Photoshop was a very expensive optional extra, so the hideous powerlines that feature in some of our portraits sadly remain. But I digress. My point is, back then we thought photography would be enough and relegated videography to the “if the budget allows” category.

However, if I could go back in time I’d make sure our wedding was filmed so I could show my daughters footage of their mummy walking down the aisle giggling, of their daddy’s voice cracking when we exchanged vows, of our friends singing musical theatre songs during the certificate signing, and of our guests carving up the dance floor before an eight piece swing band.

And so, if you can, compromise on your floral centrepieces, ditch the expensive cuff links, earrings and engraved invitations and hire a videographer. In ten years’ time, you won’t care about the styling as much as you will reliving the words, music and emotion during one of the happiest days of your life.

Chloe + Jake’s emotional exchange of vows at Mon Bijou. Captured by Jerome Cole.

Chloe + Jake’s emotional exchange of vows at Mon Bijou. Captured by Jerome Cole.

2. We regret not hiring a professional photographer

Just because you’re a chilled-out, easy going couple who want a simple and low-key ceremony (you’re fab!), it doesn’t mean you should neglect having it captured professionally. Even though you both sound like you have your priorities in check, I bet you’ve splashed a reasonable amount of cash on outfits, hair and make up and I guarantee that you’ll be emotionally invested in your day. Whether you’re hosting a 150 person bash or opting for an intimate elopement, you’ll want great photos. So please, don’t ask a friend who dabbles in photography. Hire a pro!

Chloe + Jake at Mon Bijou ceremony. Captured by Jerome Cole. Wow!

Chloe + Jake at Mon Bijou ceremony. Captured by Jerome Cole. Wow!

When I hear, “We’re thinking of asking our friend to take the photos. He has a pretty good camera…”, I worry. Does your friend (let’s call him Larry) know how to work in poorly-lit venues? Does Larry know how ceremonies play out, and therefore where to quickly position himself during the key moments? Does Larry know not to take those cheesy mood-killing posed photos during the certificate signing, but rather, read the play during the ceremony and know when to photograph you and when to photograph the crowd? And let’s not overlook the possibility that Larry may not want to do it, but is too polite to decline your offer of working for several hours while everyone else is having fun. It’s a big ask. The pressure would be huge for a novice photographer. At least it should be.


3. We regret not having an unplugged ceremony

For the past decade I’ve found that asking guests to put their cameras, phones and other distracting devices away in order to fully participate in the ceremony has been a rapidly growing trend. The motivation is twofold; the experience for all present (the couple and guests alike) and the quality of the photos and footage.

Imagine walking down the aisle and not being able to make eye contact with some of your guests.

Imagine standing at the top of the aisle during the processional and having your view blocked by gran, who’s standing in front of you with a cheap digital camera, attempting to take a sub-standard photo. (I call it “aisle-creep” and it happens all the time!)

Imagine receiving your photos and discovering pictures that would have been amazing but for an arm or a selfie stick in the aisle, or a guest who’s looking at his/her lap, checking how good their iPhone photo looks.

Commit to 30 minutes of true guest interaction and to helping the pros do their best work. Guests can snap away for hours afterwards and hey, you can even pose with them!

All eyes are on Kristina at Stones of the Yarra Valley. Captured by Theodore & Co

All eyes are on Kristina at Stones of the Yarra Valley. Captured by Theodore & Co

No cameras in sight at Kristina + John’s ceremony. Captured by Theodore & Co

No cameras in sight at Kristina + John’s ceremony. Captured by Theodore & Co

4. We regret having our ceremony outside… in Melbourne… in Winter.

This is closely followed by, “We regret having our ceremony outside… in Melbourne… in Summer.”

Doesn’t it sound like a recipe for disaster? OK, I’m being a tad dramatic, but given how reliably interchangeable Melbourne weather is at any time of year, please don’t just “hope for the best” when planning the biggest social event of your lives. If you know the mercury is going to hit 30 degrees, or if the chance of rain rain is high, please hire a marquee. Wishful thinking and half a dozen market umbrellas will not do the trick!

Better still, bite the bullet and move the ceremony indoors! All the hard work you and your celebrant will have dedicated to creating an entertaining and meaningful ceremony can be somewhat wasted when guests are distracted by a constant “Hurry up, I’m melting” or “Hurry up, I’m fuh-reeeeezing” thought. Looking out onto a sea of people with their arms crossed, trying to keep warm, or watching people apologetically walk away from the ceremony space to find shade is disheartening. I may need to cut parts of the ceremony if I feel I’m losing them, which would be a big shame.

Remember, guests will always remember how they felt during your ceremony. No one wants their ceremony to be remembered as “the one that was so cold we almost froze” or “the one where it was so hot, someone fainted”. Aim for a “that’s the best ceremony I’ve ever experienced!” feeling.

When ‘Plan B’ doesn’t cut it. Image by Jason Kaczorowski

When ‘Plan B’ doesn’t cut it. Image by Jason Kaczorowski

5. We regret not thinking enough about our Plan B location.

It’s imperative that you know at the time of booking your ceremony suppliers whether your ceremony location and time could change if you revert to a plan B location.

Whenever I receive an enquiry for a ceremony in a Heritage Listed garden - the Carlton Gardens for example (where marquees are not permitted), i’ll always ask the couple to confirm their alternative ceremony venue and time. If you need to move your 3:00 PM ceremony from a public garden to your indoor reception venue, keep in mind that, no matter how much notice you give, the reception venue manager might not allow you and your guests onsite until they can accomodate you, which is usually from around 5:00 PM.

If you’re marrying outdoors in Melbourne, talk to your celebrant, stylist, musicians and drivers and find out how flexible they can be on your wedding date. Unlike photographers and videographers, who are usually booked for a whole day, they’re usually booked for an agreed time.


6. We regret not having a photo with you.

Look, I do try to jump in during the certificate signing or interrupt your post ceremony snaps, but sometimes the light is fading or the rain is coming and I can sense that the photographer needs to get on with his/her work. If you want a pic with your celebrant (or anyone not staying on after the ceremony), let them and your photographer know that it’s important to you. If it’s important to you, I’ll definitely hover until it happens. Just ask Daniel and Elisha.

Interrupting Daniel + Elisha’s post ceremony portrait session with Briars Atlas at Zonzo Estate.

Interrupting Daniel + Elisha’s post ceremony portrait session with Briars Atlas at Zonzo Estate.

Remember, wedding day regrets can be avoided when you have an experienced and forward thinking celebrant, a realistic attitude and great suppliers on your team.

If there’s anything you would have done differently on your wedding day, please comment below!

Sally Hughes, Melbourne Celebrant

For more wedding tips take a look at TRENDING - Rose Petal Recessionals

Ten Years a Celebrant!

On this day ten years ago the Attorney General’s Department saw fit to approve my application to become an Authorised Marriage Celebrant. Ten years ago? Geesh! That time has flown!

Since the 27th of August 2009, I’ve hitched almost 600 couples, I’ve helped others renew their vows, I’ve named babies, I’ve seen marriage equality achieved (hallelujah!) and I’ve seen trends such as mason jars, L.O.V.E letters and sand ceremonies come and go. I’ve seen the rise and rise of Tinder hook-ups, Instagram hashtags (and couple name generator apps), floral arches and ceiling installations, festoon lighting, neon signage, unplugged ceremonies, first looks and non-traditional ceremony venues like bars, distilleries, cellar doors and art galleries. I’ve mentored dozens of celebrants and I’ve won a few awards along the way, but most importantly, I’ve forged trusting relationships with many wonderful couples and close friendships with many industry folk.

I have loved working with happy couples and meeting proud and emotional parents. I have loved making people laugh and watching them cry. I have loved solving problems, dressing up, visiting beautiful venues, and observing talented creatives work their magic. I’ve always appreciated having the best seat in the house.

And so, to anyone who has hired me, recommended me, reviewed me, followed my socials, photographed or filmed me, thank you. To those of you who have spent too much time with me in photo booths, chatting on Messenger threads or carving up dance floors at industry events, sorry (not sorry).

And to my wonderfully supportive husband, thanks for holding down the fort on weekends, for always offering to pack and unpack my equipment from the boot and for having wine, vegetarian pasta and a listening ear at the ready when I return home from ceremonies and insist on reliving every moment.

2029 here I come!

Sal x

MADELEINE + DANIEL - Morning Micro

By Sally Hughes, Melbourne Marriage Celebrant

Madeleine and Daniel flew from Brunei to Australia to be married in the morning sunshine at Zonzo Estate in Victoria’s Yarra Valley. They spent time among the vines with their photographer Suzie Potter of London Ivy Collective and then married before a small group of family members and friends.  After their micro ceremony (and a quick costume change) the newlyweds made their way indoors to The Stables, a stunning light-filled space, to enjoy a celebratory lunch. 

Madeleine and Daniel’s low-key celebration was a wonderfully unhurried and intimate one. Further proof that micro weddings can be just as beautiful, meaningful and enjoyable as the large-scale variety.

Celebrant: Sally Hughes for Signed and Sealed // Photography: Suzie Potter of London Ivy Collective // Ceremony Venue: Zonzo Estate // Flowers: Sugar Bee Flowers // Madeleine’s Dress: White Runway // Daniel’s Suit: Zara Man

TRENDING - Rose Petal Recessionals

By Sally Hughes, Melbourne Marriage Celebrant

Rose petals are making a comeback, folks! And it’s thanks to pictures like these that couples are opting to bring back the tradition.

The tradition of showering newlyweds with small objects dates back centuries. It’s widely believed that rice and grains, precursors to petals, were thrown as a way of symbolising rain; a sign of prosperity, fertility and good fortune (i’ll be sure to mention that to couples when downpours are imminent!). Coloured paper confetti then became all the rage until dresses became stained and venue operators became tired of cleaning it up. Petals came next, but like all trends, their popularity declined somewhat. Again, venue operators played a role here because, like paper confetti, coloured petals stain carpets and tiles too. However I have noticed that some venue operators will now allow white or freeze dried petals.

Anyhow, enough of the history lesson. Petals have made a comeback! When thrown well, they look great in photos and they inject a little fun into the recessional. EVERY couple laughs while their friends take aim - and these photos prove my point.

A few tips for rose petal recessionals:

1. Have your Celebrant instruct guests to throw petals above you, not at you. While it is rather funny watching a couple cop a face full of blooms, it won’t be the most pleasurable experience for them. And the photography and footage will suffer.

2. Ditch petal cones. Guests don’t want to balance a cone of petals on their laps during the ceremony. And those in the standing section should be hands-free so they can applaud your extremely witty and hilarious Celebrant and wipe their tears during a sentimental exchange of vows. A bowl or basket of petals is all you’ll need.

3. Distribute petals during the signing of the certificates. No one wants to hold a handful of petals for more than a few minutes. As per point 2, guests should be hands-free during the ceremony, so just ask a friend to walk up and down the aisle to distribute during the signing.

4. If petals aren’t your thing, consider glitter cannons, sparklers (provided fire bans aren’t in place), pom poms, leaves or bubbles.

JESS + SIMON / Jerome Cole Photography / The Prince Deck / Lulu Bird

JESS + SIMON / Jerome Cole Photography / The Prince Deck / Lulu Bird

MEL + ANTON / Corey Wright Photography / Immerse / Sugar Bee Flowers

MEL + ANTON / Corey Wright Photography / Immerse / Sugar Bee Flowers

AMY + PHIL / Gerard Assi Photography / The Riverstone Estate / Edward & I

AMY + PHIL / Gerard Assi Photography / The Riverstone Estate / Edward & I

ZOE + DAN / Katie Harmsworth Photography / Coombe Yarra Valley / Tori Allen Events

ZOE + DAN / Katie Harmsworth Photography / Coombe Yarra Valley / Tori Allen Events

AMANDA + MATT / Lost In Love Photography / Zonzo Estate / Sugar Bee Flowers

AMANDA + MATT / Lost In Love Photography / Zonzo Estate / Sugar Bee Flowers

FIONA + PAUL / Stewart Leishman Photography / Immerse / Debbie O’Neill Flowers

FIONA + PAUL / Stewart Leishman Photography / Immerse / Debbie O’Neill Flowers

TAYLA + TODD / Sigrid Petersen / Coombe Yarra Valley / Sugar Bee Flowers

TAYLA + TODD / Sigrid Petersen / Coombe Yarra Valley / Sugar Bee Flowers

AMI + MATT / Michael Briggs Photography / Zonzo Estate, Yarra Glen / Sugar Bee Flowers

AMI + MATT / Michael Briggs Photography / Zonzo Estate, Yarra Glen / Sugar Bee Flowers

AMELIA + WILL / Blossom Daisy Creative / The George Ballroom / Floretta By Grace

AMELIA + WILL / Blossom Daisy Creative / The George Ballroom / Floretta By Grace

ANNALIECE + ALEKS / Michael Lean Photography / Dayne Robinson

ANNALIECE + ALEKS / Michael Lean Photography / Dayne Robinson

CAROLYNE + MARTY / Robert Hock Photography / Coombe Yarra Valley / Sugar Bee Flowers

CAROLYNE + MARTY / Robert Hock Photography / Coombe Yarra Valley / Sugar Bee Flowers

EMILY + CAM / Warren Photography / Stones of the Yarra Valley / Red Earth Flowers

EMILY + CAM / Warren Photography / Stones of the Yarra Valley / Red Earth Flowers

JEN + JARMON / Shot From The Heart / Lyrebird Falls / Sassafras Flower Design

JEN + JARMON / Shot From The Heart / Lyrebird Falls / Sassafras Flower Design

MELISSA + JED / Aria Photography / Zonzo Estate / Silver Suede Flowers

MELISSA + JED / Aria Photography / Zonzo Estate / Silver Suede Flowers

BETH + JUSTIN / Dijana Risteska Photography / Zonzo Estate / Sugar Bee Flowers

BETH + JUSTIN / Dijana Risteska Photography / Zonzo Estate / Sugar Bee Flowers

LIV + NATHAN / Beck Rocchi Photography / Coombe Yarra Valley / Sugar Bee Flowers

LIV + NATHAN / Beck Rocchi Photography / Coombe Yarra Valley / Sugar Bee Flowers

KATE + STEVE / Katie Harmsworth Photography / Stones of the Yarra Valley / Sugar Bee Flowers

KATE + STEVE / Katie Harmsworth Photography / Stones of the Yarra Valley / Sugar Bee Flowers

ANIKA + ANDY / Fifteen Photography / Yering Station / Sugar Bee Flowers

ANIKA + ANDY / Fifteen Photography / Yering Station / Sugar Bee Flowers

EMILY + HAYDEN / PiXray Photography / Quat Quatta / Victoria Whitelaw Flowers

EMILY + HAYDEN / PiXray Photography / Quat Quatta / Victoria Whitelaw Flowers

Outdoor Wedding Venues - Private Estates

By Sally Hughes, Melbourne Marriage Celebrant

 

Marrying outdoors in Melbourne?  There are so many breathtakingly beautiful gardens, vineyards and fields to choose from. 

What are some of the advantage of marrying at a private venue, as opposed to a public space? 

You'll most often be able to have your reception onsite (guests love not having to drive to two venues) and you'll most likely able to head indoors with minimal fuss should the weather become inclement. 

It's also likely that you won’t need to outsource important elements, such as staff, furniture, restrooms, cooking facilities and power. Car parking is likely to be easier and there’ll be no need to apply for an event permit.

Earlier this year I shared my favourite Outdoor Wedding Locations - Public Spaces. Here are my favourite privately-owned outdoor spaces in Melbourne (and surrounds):

The Yarra Valley

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RACV Country Club Healesville

The Dandenong Ranges

City & Inner Suburbs

Warrawong Estate, Eynsbury

Bayside / Hobsons Bay

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Lake House Daylesford

And what's the advantage of marrying at a private venue, as opposed to a public space? 

You'll most often be able to have your reception onsite (guests love not having to drive to two venues) and you'll most likely able to head indoors with minimal fuss should the weather become inclement. 

It's also likely that you won’t need to outsource other elements. There will be venue staff on hand to assist, seating, restrooms, power sources, and considerably better (and free) car parking options for guests.

If you don’t require this, or if you’re happy to outsource items, perhaps a public garden or beach is for you: Outdoor Wedding Locations - Public Spaces

With the exception of those credited to photographers, the images used in this post have been obtained from official venue web pages.  

Sally Hughes - Melbourne Celebrant

Outdoor Wedding Locations - Public Spaces

Melbourne (and surrounds) is blessed with so many beautiful parks, gardens, forests, beaches and reserves.  From time to time I'm asked by couples for recommendations. That's easy! Here are some of my favourite public places.

City & Inner Suburbs

Image by Ben Swinnerton

Image by Ben Swinnerton

Birrarung Marr, Melbourne CBD

Nymphaea Lake West - Royal Botanic Gardens, South Yarra

Nymphaea Lake West - Royal Botanic Gardens, South Yarra

Nymphaea Lake East - Royal Botanic Gardens, South Yarra

Picnic Point - Royal Botanic Gardens, South Yarra

Princes Lawn - Royal Botanic Gardens, South Yarra

Dog Flat - Royal Botanic Gardens, South Yarra

Taxodium Lawn - Royal Botanic Gardens, South Yarra

Tennyson Lawn - Royal Botanic Gardens, South Yarra

Tecoma Pavilion - Royal Botanic Gardens, South Yarra

Rose Pavilion - Royal Botanic Gardens, South Yarra

For information regarding permits for the Royal Botanic Gardens, contact Curtis Stone Events

Fawkner Park, South Yarra

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John F Kennedy Memorial - Treasury Gardens, East Melbourne

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Temple of the Winds Rotunda, Fitzroy Gardens, East Melbourne

Pioneer Women's Memorial Garden, Kings Domain, Melbourne

Lady Janet Clarke Rotunda - Queen Victoria Gardens, Melbourne

Flagstaff Gardens, Melbourne

Image by Daniel Brannan Photography

Image by Daniel Brannan Photography

Carlton Gardens, Carlton

For information regarding permits for Fawkner Park, Treasury Gardens, Fitzroy Gardens, Pioneer Women's Memorial, Queen Victoria Gardens, Flagstaff Gardens and Carlton Gardens, contact the City Of Melbourne

Grollo Equiset Gardens - National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne

St Vincents Garden, Albert Park

City of Port Phillip

North

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Edinburgh Gardens Rotunda, Fitzroy

For information relating to permits for Edinburgh Gardens, contact the City of Yarra


East

Malvern Gardens, Malvern

For information regarding permits for Malvern Gardens contact the City of Stonnington

Alexandra Gardens, Kew

Canterbury Gardens Rotunda, Canterbury

Maranoa Gardens, Balwyn

For information relating to permits for Alexandra Gardens, Canterbury Gardens and Maranoa Gardens, contact the City of Boroondara

Blackburn Lake Sanctuary, Blackburn

For information relating permits for Blackburn Lake Sanctuary, contact the City of Whitehorse

Westerfolds Park, Templestowe

For information relating to permits at Westerfolds Park, contact Parks Victoria

National Rhododendron Gardens, Olinda

For information relating to permits for the National Rhododendron Gardens, contact Parks Victoria

The Secret Garden - Sky High Mount Dandenong

Tim Neville Arboretum, Ferntree Gully

For further information relating to permits for the Tim Neville Arboretum, contact Knox City Council

South

Royal Botanic Gardens, Cranbourne

For information relating to permits for the Royal Botanic Gardens, Cranbourne, contact Cranbourne Gardens.

George Pentland Botanic Gardens, Frankston

For further information regarding permits for George Petland Botanic Gardens, contact  

Frankston City Council

West

Williamstown Botanic Gardens, Williamstown

For information relating to permits for Williamstown Botanic Gardens, contact  

Hobsons Bay City Council

Werribee Park, Werribee South

State Rose Garden - Werribee Park, Werribee South

For information relating to permits for Werribee Park, contact Parks Victoria

Footscray Park, Footscray

For information relating to permits for Footscray Park, contact the City of Maribyrnong

Bayside

St Kilda Pier, St Kilda

For information relating to permits for St Kilda Pier, contact Parks Victoria

Catani Gardens Rotunda, St Kilda

St Kilda Botanical Gardens, St Kilda

For information relating to permits for Catani Gardens Rotunda and St Kilda Botanic Gardens, 

contact the City of Port Phillip

Brighton Bathing Boxes - Brighton Beach

Kamesburgh Gardens, Brighton

Band Rotunda, Sandringham

For information relating to permits for the Brighton bathing boxes foreshore, Kamesburgh Gardens, Brighton Town Hall gardens, and the Sandringham band rotunda, contact Bayside City Council

Yarra Valley & Dandenong Ranges

Image by Julieanne Perara

Redwood Forest, East Warburton

For information relating to permits for the Redwood Forest, contact Parks Victoria

- - -


If you plan to hold your ceremony in a public place, be sure to check with local council or Parks Victoria to confirm whether a permit is required and the conditions of the permit.  Conditions may relate to site and insurance fees, bond payment, hire duration, maximum group size, alcohol consumption and whether structures such as marquees and market umbrellas can be erected. 

Looking for a little more outdoor inspiration?

Take a look at my blog Outdoor Wedding Locations - Private Estates


Sally Hughes
Authorised Marriage Celebrant