YARRA VALLEY
WEDDING GUIDE
All you need to know before planning a wedding and getting married in the Yarra Valley
WELCOME
A NOTE ABOUT THIS GUIDE
I am very excited to be working with you and I can’t wait to get to know you better! I know this time in your life can be a nerve wracking and making a ton of decisions can be overwhealming. I am here to guide you and help you make it happen!
I have put this little guide together to help you get an idea of what planning a wedding day in the Yarra Valley looks like. I hope you will find this helpful!
Why should you choose to get married in the Yarra Valley?
The Yarra Valley, located approximately 50 kilometres east of Melbourne, is one of the world's premier wine-growing regions with over 80 cellar doors, superb restaurants, luxury accommodation, and more. It offers stunning natural scenery with towering ash and redwood trees, rolling hills, lush vineyards, and picturesque gardens, providing a beautiful backdrop for weddings and unforgettable photos. The region features unique wedding venues, from gardens like Alowyn Gardens and rustic barns such as Nobelius Packing Shed to luxurious hotels and wineries. The high-quality wines produced in the Yarra Valley, including those from Oakridge Wines, allow couples to incorporate their love of wine into their wedding day. Various accommodation options, from bed and breakfasts to luxurious resorts, make it convenient for guests to stay overnight and enjoy the wedding festivities. The Yarra Valley is also known for its fresh local produce, including cheese, fruits, vegetables, and meats, which can enhance the wedding menu. For more information on planning a wedding in the Yarra Valley, visit Off-Peak Weddings.
The best wedding venues in the Yarra Valley
Planning a wedding can be time consuming and daunting with just the idea of all the possibilities in regards to venues. My aim is to always be helpful so here is a little list of some of our favourite wedding venues in the Yarra Valley.
The Farm Yarra Valley
I21–23 DELANEYS ROAD, WARRANDYTE SOUTH VIC 3134
Always supporting the local communities, The Farm supports small local businesses by choosing seasonal menus and local produce. Among the incredible backdrops of gardens and vineyards, is the Oak walk.
Immerse in the Yarra Valley
1548 Melba Hwy, Dixons Creek VIC 3775, Australia
Immerse has a newly built chapel in the middle of the winery, and it’s a great plan B to have if you are considering an outdoor ceremony but it rains. The rolling hills are ideal for sunset photos after your ceremony.
Yarra Valley Lodge
2 Heritage Ave, Chirnside Park VIC 3116, Australia
Surrounded by natural beauty, the lodge is a great escape from Melbourne, only one hour away. This is an heritage Estate that can host more than 100 guests with 102 rooms at their estate.
Acacia Ridge
169 Gulf Rd, Yarra Glen VIC 3775
Acacia Ridge is a family own winery that combines both simple and casual vibes. This venue has a clear marquee that will also allow you to have options to plan for a wet day.
Stones of the Yarra Valley
14 St Huberts Rd, Coldstream, Victoria, Australia
This great venue offers 2 possibilities to host your celebration: The Barn and the Stables. This is a great venue for bigger weddings (around 200 guests). The historical buildings as well as the combination of winery and gardens are the perfect combination for amazing photos.
Inglewood Estate
130 Eltham-Yarra Glen Rd, Kangaroo Ground VIC 3097
This is an Estate rich in history. The Cottage is ideal to start your wedding day and get ready before the ceremony.
The Little Vineyard
17 Paynes Rd, Chirnside Park VIC 3116
The little vineyard is a new kid in the block. It offers a great space to hold ceremonies outdoor.
Projekt 3488
3488 Warburton Highway Warburton VIC
This venue is the result of a daring dream from Mark Fenech. He took this Masonic Hall and turned it into an inclusive venue that combines the timeless vibes of the 20‘s with a modern and unique set up.
The Riverstone State
105 Skye Road Coldstream VIC 3770
This property counts with a vast property. Set among the rolling hills of the Yarra Valley it has a Bluestone and Oregon timber homestead that is ideal to be used as a backdrop for photos.
Yering Station
38 Melba Hwy, Yarra Glen VIC 3775
This is one of the wineries with the most history. With spectacular views and a great restaurant this venue combines modern with timeless winery vibes.
Intimate wedding
Boutique Yarra Valley wedding venues
If you are planning a smaller wedding then these venues offer smaller packages for intimate weddings.
Potters
321 Jumping Creek Road, Warrandyte Vic 3113
Potters in Warrandyte offers a well-rounded experience for couples looking for a wedding venue. The venue features beautiful landscaped gardens, a contemporary chapel, and multiple spots for ceremonies and receptions. Couples and guests can expect professional and friendly staff who are praised for their organization and attention to detail. The food is generally well-received, with a variety of menu options available. Onsite accommodation adds convenience for staying overnight. While there are some concerns about food consistency and accessibility, the overall feedback is positive, making Potters a popular choice for many couples.
Bulong Estate
70 Summerhill Rd Yarra Junction, VIC, 3797
Planning your wedding at Bulong Estate promises a truly memorable experience. Couples rave about the stunning views of the vines and surrounding mountains, creating a perfect backdrop for photos. The venue offers a serene, intimate atmosphere with excellent facilities, ideal for both outdoor and indoor celebrations. Monica and her team are frequently praised for their exceptional service, attention to detail, and flexibility, ensuring that every aspect of your special day runs smoothly. With delicious food, great wine, and a beautiful setting, Bulong Estate provides everything you need for a perfect wedding day.
Tarrawarra
311 Healesville-Yarra Glen Road, VIC 3775
TarraWarra Estate offers a beautiful wedding venue with stunning landscapes and views, perfect for capturing memorable moments. The restaurant is renowned for its exceptional food, with standout dishes like the duck and a variety of plant-based options. Service is consistently praised for being warm, knowledgeable, and accommodating, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience. The estate also features a lovely art gallery and well-maintained grounds, providing plenty of photo opportunities. While the restaurant and wine tastings are highly rated, it’s important to note that the venue might not be very kid-friendly and can get busy, impacting the overall experience. Nonetheless, TarraWarra Estate is a picturesque and elegant choice for your wedding day.
WHAT DO YOU NEED TO GET MARRIED IN
YARRA VALLEY?
Getting married in the Yarra Valley is a great choice, and planning it can be straightforward with the right steps. Here's a handy guide to help you navigate the process and make sure everything goes smoothly on your big day.
Legal Requirements:
Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM): You need to lodge your NOIM with a registered celebrant at least one month before your wedding date but no more than 18 months prior. You can find the form online or get it from a celebrant.
Proof of Identity: Both partners must provide original birth certificates or passports. If you’ve been married before, you’ll need to show divorce papers or a death certificate for your former spouse.
Witnesses: You need two witnesses over the age of 18 to be present at your ceremony.
Choosing a Celebrant:
Hire a Registered Celebrant: A celebrant will officiate your ceremony and ensure all legal requirements are met. It’s best to book a celebrant well in advance to secure your preferred date.
Venue Selection:
Book Your Venue: The Yarra Valley has a range of venues, including vineyards, gardens, and estates. Popular choices include Alowyn Gardens, Oakridge Wines, and various rustic barns and luxurious hotels.
Visit and Confirm Details: Arrange site visits to choose the perfect spot and confirm details like capacity, catering options, and availability.
Accommodation:
Reserve Accommodation: Book places for yourselves and your guests. Options range from quaint bed and breakfasts to luxurious resorts, ensuring everyone has a comfortable place to stay.
Local Vendors:
Catering: Choose a caterer who can incorporate the fresh local produce Yarra Valley is known for, including cheeses, fruits, vegetables, and meats.
Photography: Hire a local photographer who knows the best spots for beautiful wedding photos.
Florists, Musicians, and More: Book other vendors early to ensure availability and alignment with your wedding style.
Additional Considerations:
Weather Plan: Consider the season and weather. Have a backup plan for outdoor weddings in case of rain.
Transportation: Arrange transport for you and your guests to and from the venue if necessary.
Final Preparations:
Rehearsal: Schedule a rehearsal to ensure everyone knows their roles and the ceremony runs smoothly.
Finalize Details: Confirm all arrangements with your celebrant, venue, and vendors a week before the wedding.
By following these steps, you’ll be well-prepared to celebrate your wedding in the beautiful Yarra Valley. Enjoy your planning, and have a wonderful wedding day!
PLANNING AND LOGISTICS
When planning your wedding day, consider the following logistics
Autumn Weddings
Autumn is famous for its spectacular colours. For peak autumn foliage, aim for mid-April. Early March offers green vines, while by late April, the vineyard is ablaze with colour. The days are warm and sunny early in the season, transitioning to cooler nights by May. This season is perfect for those who love rich autumn hues in their wedding photos.
Winter Weddings
Winter is the least busy season, offering potential discounts and more available dates. Though cold and with a higher chance of rain, winter weddings can be magical with elements like outdoor fire pits, mulled wine, and cozy attire. The vines are bare, creating a stark yet beautiful backdrop. Ensure you and your guests are prepared for cold weather, and consider indoor or sheltered venues.
How much does it cost to get married in Yarra Valley?
One of my favorite proposal stories is from Ben and Stacey. Ben planned a session and told Stacey they were heading to a dinner at Cape Schanck but made a stop at Gunnamatta Beach for a photo session. Stacey was surprised but happy. We started the session, and about 45 minutes in, near some rocks, I asked them to stand back-to-back and look ahead. As they stepped forward, Ben got down on one knee. Stacey, initially unsure of what was happening, turned around and realized Ben was proposing. She later confessed she had lost hope that anything exciting was going to happen because she got distracted during our session. It was a very emotional and perfect proposal!
Make sure to bring your jewelry, your veil and your shoes to your bridal portrait session!
When is the best time of the year to get married in the Yarra Valley?
Deciding on the best time of year to get married in the Yarra Valley depends on the type of celebration you envision. Each season offers its own unique charm and considerations.
Spring Weddings
Spring in the Yarra Valley is marked by budding vines and blossoming flowers. Early spring sees the first tiny shoots on the vines, while late spring, particularly in October and November, showcases lush green growth and vibrant gardens. The weather can be variable, so it's essential to have a wet weather plan and suitable outfits for fluctuating temperatures.
Summer Weddings
Summer brings warm to hot weather, ideal for outdoor ceremonies and receptions. Vineyards retain their green appearance, though the grass may dry out. Nets might cover some vines to protect ripening fruit, but these can often be removed for photography. Be mindful of the high fire danger in February and ensure your venue has a bushfire plan. Evening celebrations are perfect due to pleasant temperatures and extended daylight.
How much does it cost to get married in Yarra Valley?
Planning a wedding in the Yarra Valley can be a beautiful yet budget-friendly experience. Here's a real-life cost breakdown to give you a clear idea of what to expect. This wedding had 73 guests (70 adults, 3 children) and the total cost was a bit over $20,000 AUD.
Venue and Drinks Package: $5,950
Acacia Ridge Winery: This stunning venue in the Yarra Valley offers a flexible package. The per-person fee was $85, which included venue hire and a five-hour drinks package. Booking during the off-season saved 15%.
Grazing Table: $1,140
Platter Co by Jade: A deluxe grazing table for 50-60 people included an array of meats, cheeses, crackers, and sweets, offering a delicious pre-dinner snack.
Dinner: $2,640
Toasta Food Truck: Serving toasted sandwiches, potato gems, and salad for $30 per person plus a $450 travel fee. This casual dining option suited the 73-person wedding perfectly.
Dessert: $1,200
Eat Cannoli: 140 pieces of cannoli served from a caravan. Although popular, many guests were full from dinner, resulting in leftover cannoli.
Photography: $3,000
Rick Liston: An experienced photographer hired for eight hours. He provided stunning preview photos the day after the wedding.
Celebrant: $905
Bianca Paliaga: A calm and relaxed celebrant who customized the ceremony to fit the couple's style.
Petting Zoo: $490
Barn Buddies: A unique touch that guests enjoyed during the cocktail hour.
Photobooth: $1,250
The Photobooth Girl: A photobooth set up in a combi van, providing fun photo opportunities and keepsakes for guests.
Flowers: $420
Valley Blooms: Included an arbour, table garlands, and buttonholes.
Bride’s Clothing: $490
Dress: $150 (We Are Kindred, from Myer)
Coat: $200 (Unreal Fur)
Shoes: $110 (Bared, second-hand)
Headpiece: $30 (Anna Christina Bridal, Etsy)
Groom’s Clothing: $600
Bell and Barnett: Suits purchased during a sale.
Rings: $2,000
Windfall Jewellery: Ethical and sustainable rings, with the bride’s ring costing $1,100 and the groom’s $900.
Shuttle Bus: $649
Wild Wombat Tours: Transported guests from the train station and local accommodations.
Miscellaneous: $345
Audio equipment rental: $155
Bride hairstyling: $40
Groom shave and hairstyling: $50
Guest book: $70
Card box and programme board: $30
Savings
Makeup: Done by a friend
Music: Spotify playlist
Bridesmaid outfits: Self-purchased or reused
Invitations/RSVPs: Sent via email
Conclusion
A wedding in the Yarra Valley can range in cost, but with careful planning and choosing the right vendors, you can create a memorable and beautiful wedding day without breaking the bank.
11 Tips for your
Yarra Valley wedding day
The Yarra Valley is one of the most romantic and magical places that you can ever choose to host your wedding. Yarra Valley weddings are growing increasingly popular because of their vintage charm and elegance. If you believe that a wedding in Yarra Valley will reflect your vision then you need to check out the following 11 tips that are guaranteed to make your wedding day a special one.
Scout the Grounds Before Booking
It is always advisable to visit the venue before booking. That way, you will have the perfect opportunity to bond with the staff as well as make special requests for who you would like to be on staff during the wedding. Visiting several times for a wine tasting or music event will give you even more opportunities for noticing details about the winery’s set up that might come in handy later.
Incorporate Rustic Decorations
Choose décor for the wedding that has the rustic vibe of wine country to match with the countryside ambience. Use warm-tone flowers and natural coloured tablecloths. Green, soft blue, cream, or natural wood tones are also good to incorporate for centrepieces or furniture. Wine barrels, vintage lanterns, and distressed wood tables are also must-have pieces that tie in perfectly with the winery wedding theme. For more tips on Rustic styling and vendors come over and look at our blog.
Floral Arrangement
A winery wedding has the unique advantage of having colour tones that are not only natural but also incredibly easy to compliment. Bearing that in mind, you have the creative freedom to select the floral arrangement that’s right for you and matches your style too.
Wide Assortment of Drinks
Just because you have chosen to hold your wedding at a winery, it does not automatically mean that wine should be the only alcoholic beverage available. You should also consider offering your guests fun cocktails and craft beers particularly if their preferred drink is not wine. It is also a good idea to check with the winery’s license when it comes to the serving of alcoholic drinks to be sure that cocktails and other kinds of liquor are allowed.
Time It Wisely
Wineries are obviously a lovely sight throughout all the seasons, but remember that the passing of each season will probably change the foliage and vine leaves. If you would like your wedding photos to have a backdrop of lush green vines, you should book the venue before the harvest. If you book the venue late in the year, you will find that the vines have changed in colour. If you have an ideal setting in mind, try contacting the winery staff to help you identify the perfect date for your wedding.
Use Local Caterers
Wineries typically have connections to local caterers in the surrounding area, which is why you need to find out whether the venue has such connections. One of the most popular trends currently is to hire local caterers. The winery staff can also offer you discounts and recommendations for wines likely to pair perfectly with each course that you will be offering guests. Keep in mind that some wineries don’t actually have kitchens, which means that the caterer may have to prepare the food before they arrive.
Transportation Considerations
The greatest appeal when it comes to wineries, which is also their greatest drawback is their isolation from towns or cities. A winery wedding carries with it the challenge of transporting all guests to and from the wedding venue. It can be a good idea to look into local hotels and arrange for a shuttle for your guests. You should also write in the invitation for your guests to wear appropriate shoes for dirt or pebble paths.
Carry-Home Tokens
A winery wedding provides the perfect setting for doing something different and one of the ways to do this is with the take-home tokens. It can be a good idea to hand out wedding tokens that tie into the winery theme. You can give personalised cork stoppers or bottles of wine as gifts to your guests. It can also be an excellent opportunity for you to check for discounts on wine from the winery.
Make Plans for the Sun
Outdoor weddings are usually very sunny. When it comes to throwing a winery wedding, you should always remember the comfort of your guests. To ensure that guests are as comfortable as possible, you should have paper parasols and sunscreen wipes for the ceremony along with plenty of shady seating during cocktail hour.
Embrace the Backdrop for Photos
One of the greatest advantages of hosting a winery wedding is the ability to utilise the scenic backdrop provided by the venue. Lush greenery, rolling hills, and natural light all make for a stunning collection of wedding photos.
Make Plans for Accommodation
If you have guests that will be travelling long distances for your wedding, you should choose a venue with suitable accommodation and facilities such as a pool and parking. Check the availability of rooms on the day of the wedding, and check your guest list to see whether there’s any person with specific requirements. Consider whether wheelchair access is needed, whether family suites are available, and also consider the overall ease of access for older or less mobile guests.
Final Thoughts A winery can be the perfect venue choice for holding your wedding. Not only will guests fall in love with the beauty of the scenery but it will also make for stunning wedding photos. Portraits of the newly married couple on a hilltop overlooking a beautiful valley will create the perfect shot for the wedding album. A winery is obviously a naturally beautiful wedding venue, but you are free to add your own personal touch with flower and décor. You should also remember the 11 tips discussed here that are guaranteed to help you create the wedding of your dreams.
ARE YOU STILL CONSIDERING OTHER LOCATIONS FOR YOUR WEDDING DAY?
If you are on full wedding planning mode but you are not sure about the option in other geographic locations we got you! Here are some further guides that we hope we’ll help.
WEDDINGS
COMMON CHALLENGES AND HOW TO AVOID THEM
Planning a wedding is a complex task that requires meticulous attention to detail. Despite best efforts, unexpected challenges can arise on the big day. Here are some common issues based on real-life experiences and how to navigate them.
1. Heavy or Inappropriate Cake Toppers Challenge: A mother of the bride insisted on using a 2 kilo ornament as a cake topper, causing the cake to collapse.
Solution: Ensure your cake topper is appropriate in weight and size for your cake. Consult with your cake maker about what the cake can support, and if necessary, place heavier items beside the cake as a decorative element.
2. Missing Key Participants Challenge: A celebrant mistakenly thought the ceremony was an hour later, leaving the couple alone at the altar.
Solution: Double-check schedules with all key participants and send reminders a few days before the wedding. Designate someone within the wedding party to step in if needed.
3. Family Drama Challenge: A groom's father tried to control every aspect of the wedding, leading to tension and tears.
Solution: Set clear boundaries and communicate expectations with family members early on. Consider involving a wedding planner to act as a mediator and ensure everyone understands their roles and limitations.
4. Venue Issues Challenge: An outdoor ceremony had to be moved into a marquee due to wet grounds, and in another case, venue setup was delayed due to an absent staff member.
Solution: Always have a plan B for outdoor events, such as a marquee or an indoor space. Confirm all details with your venue well in advance and maintain regular communication to address any last-minute changes.
5. Miscommunication and Mismanagement Challenge: A bride's family didn't pay the final balance for the reception, leading to a last-minute scramble to gather funds.
Solution: Ensure all payments are made on time and keep clear records of all transactions. Designate someone to manage finances and communicate with vendors regularly to confirm that all payments have been received.
6. Logistical Issues Challenge: Guests were left without proper directions, causing confusion and delays.
Solution: Provide clear instructions and transportation options for guests well in advance. Use detailed maps, signage, and, if possible, transportation services to ensure everyone arrives on time.
7. Last-Minute Changes Challenge: Playing breakup songs as a joke created awkward moments among guests.
Solution: Ensure any changes to the plan align with the overall tone and expectations of your wedding. Discuss all elements, including music and decor, with a trusted advisor or planner to avoid misunderstandings.
By anticipating these common challenges and preparing accordingly, you can minimize stress and ensure your wedding day runs as smoothly as possible. Flexibility, clear communication, and thorough planning are key to navigating the unexpected.
Where to stay in the
Yarra Valley
There are a few things to consider when you are planning your wedding day, and the place where you will be getting ready as well as the place where you will finish the party shouldn’t be left to the last minute. We are hopping that these options will help you to get your planning on your way and they will save you a ton of time.
Yarra Valley Lodge
Myers Creek Cascades Luxury Cottages
Kangaroo Ridge Retreat