Whoever said that your wedding day is the happiest day of your life was either trying to sell something or had never been married. For most people, their wedding day is timed to military precision with the logistics of juggling caterers, attendants, florists, and other companies causing incredible stress. Combine all that with trying to appear glowing and relaxed to guests and it’s right up there with your college exams when it comes to fun.
Following the stress and organization of the wedding ceremony, having a relaxing, magical reception can actually bring back the pleasure of the day and allow you to actually enjoy yourself. With that in mind, I have put together a few options you may not have considered which are designed to make your wedding day special, unforgettable, and stress free:
Where first you met…
Holding your wedding ceremony in the place where you first laid eyes on each other must be the most romantic idea ever. Depending on the location, you may need to pull a few strings and apply for a permit, but nothing is impossible.
For convenience sake, it may be wise to hold the reception at a nearby park or even your backyard, which can be magically transformed via a stunning marquee. When catering at home, my go-to supplier is Marquee Monkeys, as they have all the accessories and take care of everything allowing me to sit back and enjoy the party.
Beachfront Bliss
Everyone loves the thought of a Summer beach wedding, while the sun is setting in the West and the cool breeze floats off the water. A beach ceremony is a relaxed and enchanting delight for both you and your guests to experience. You may even want to consider a destination wedding! While they tend to be more intimate, they are usually way cheaper than a local wedding.
Maleny Manor
For those located in or near the Brisbane, Maleny Manor is a private estate delivering truly personalized, signature weddings. They lay claim to being the most ‘loved up venue’ around and have been voted Best Ceremony Venue in Australia four years running!
With elegant Manor house reception rooms and boutique accommodation, Maleny Manor is scenic, relaxed and beautiful — what more could you ask for?
Polly Woodside
For those located in Melbourne, the Polly Woodside offers the unique experience of holding your wedding on a 19th century tall ship. This Melbourne icon offers four unique event spaces to suit your style of function. Guests are met with a panoramic view along the Yarra River whilst revelling in the old world charm of this classic sailing vessel.
Hidden Gem
Poet’s Lane chapel, tucked away in Melbourne’s Dandenong ranges, is a magical, rustic and unique wedding location. The interior of the chapel is lit with three dazzling chandeliers and can seat up to 150 guests. Alternatively you can hold your ceremony in the delightful outdoor garden gazebo.
Whichever setting you choose, at Poet’s Lane you will be able to relax and enjoy yourself as they book only one wedding per day. After the ceremony, you move through to their magnificent reception venue where guests will be treated to a view of a cascading waterfall and ornamental bridge. Better still, there is on-site accommodation available — the perfect package!
Whichever way you choose to celebrate your love, make sure your priority is to enjoy yourself. The perfect wedding day, is one you can look back on with a smile of nostalgic delight so don’t plan the fun out of it. Making things simple and engaging professional and reliable support is the best way to ensure that your wedding day truly is the happiest day of your life.
*This article was contributed.
