In Melbourne, we're fortunate to have an array of wedding venues to suit every taste and budget.
From charming restaurants and converted event spaces to luxurious wineries and trendy industrial warehouses, the choices are abundant. However, for newly engaged couples, selecting the perfect wedding venue in Melbourne can feel overwhelming. Don't worry—I'm here to help!
With over 20 years of experience designing wedding and event flowers in Melbourne, my team and I have had the pleasure of working on a diverse range of special events across Australia. Our extensive experience allows us to offer informed and unbiased opinions on the best wedding venues in Melbourne.
If you're planning your Melbourne wedding and feeling a bit lost, here are some essential considerations to help you find your dream venue:
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Determine Your Budget: Your budget will significantly influence the type of wedding you can host. If family members are contributing financially, be sure to consider their preferences as well. There's no point in researching venues beyond your budget.
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Location: Decide where you'd like your venue to be. Are you envisioning a cityscape, a beachside setting, or a winery in regional Victoria?
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Food and Wine Preferences: If you have a passion for food and wine, list your top 5-6 favorite restaurants and see if any of them cater to weddings.
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Wedding Style: Think about the style of wedding you want. Would you prefer a casual cocktail party with a DJ or a formal black-tie sit-down event?
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Guest List: The number of guests will dictate the size of your venue. Larger weddings (200+ guests) may require grand venues like Crown Melbourne, NGV, The Plaza Ballroom, or Metropolis. For smaller weddings (100-150 guests), you’ll have more venue options. For intimate micro weddings (20-50 guests), consider smaller venues or private dining spaces within your favorite restaurants.
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Shortlist and Visit Venues: After considering the above factors, create a shortlist of three Melbourne wedding venues. Contact each one to schedule site visits. Meeting with venue representatives will help you determine if the venue meets your needs. Keep your list short to avoid overwhelming yourself, especially if you have a busy schedule.
Based on my experience, here are my top 10 Melbourne wedding venues that I'd recommend if I were to walk down the aisle again:
Luminaire, South Melbourne
Located on the rooftop of the Spotlight building, Luminaire in South Melbourne is an incredible venue run by event industry experts, The Big Group. The luxe interior looks amazing whether left raw or fully activated, featuring beautiful furnishings, a fixed bar, and luxury table settings, so additional furniture hire is often unnecessary. It's a perfect rooftop ceremony and reception venue. The operations team is always top-notch, ensuring a stress-free day for both suppliers and the wedding party. We've designed weddings at Luminaire since it opened, and every event there feels unique. Its proximity to Crown Melbourne is convenient for guest accommodation. Check out more at Luminaire.
Carousel, Albert Park Lake
Carousel is a favourite Melbourne wedding venue, which recently underwent a much-needed makeover. Hosted by world-class caterers food&desire, this venue offers picturesque views of Melbourne city and Albert Park Lake, making it an ideal location for both ceremonies and receptions. We've worked with the f&d team for over 15 years, and they are always professional. While logistics can be tight during peak times, the stunning setting is worth it. Learn more at Carousel.
Half Acre, South Melbourne
Half Acre is food&desire's newest venue, an urban industrial warehouse space that stands out with its unique aesthetic. Located in South Melbourne, this award-winning restaurant-warehouse space appeals to couples who love a raw, urban vibe. We've designed various events here, and the space always looks beautiful and unique. The venue's large space and easy access make it cost-effective for suppliers. Explore more at Half Acre.
The Plaza Ballroom, Melbourne CBD
The Plaza Ballroom on Collins Street is a favourite grand ballroom event space, perfect for city ceremonies and receptions. Its opulent, classic setting is stunning both day and night. We've designed wedding flowers here for decades, and the team is professional and accommodating despite tight access. For weddings with 160+ guests in a grand classic setting, check out The Plaza Ballroom.
Alto at GPO, Melbourne CBD
Located above the iconic GPO building, Alto is a magnificent city venue hosting weddings, corporate events, and more. The space is a luxe blank canvas, perfect for any event style. We've loved working with the Damm Fine Food team for over a decade. For a contemporary Melbourne city venue, visit Alto or check out The George Ballroom in St Kilda for another special space.
Society, Melbourne CBD
Society is a fairly new and decadent dining experience by Chris Lucas, offers luxurious surrounds and exceptional service. Located on Collins Street, it features a private dining space ideal for micro weddings or special events. We've designed events here and have been impressed by the team's professionalism. Visit Society for more details.
The Stokehouse, St. Kilda
The Stokehouse is an iconic Melbourne restaurant on St. Kilda Esplanade, known for its laid-back charm and award-winning food and wine. It's perfect for casual yet sophisticated weddings, with a private dining space for micro weddings or the entire venue for larger events. The space looks beautiful with minimal florals. For a beachfront wedding, check out The Stokehouse.
Vue de Monde, Melbourne CBD
Vue de Monde, located on level 55 of the Rialto building, offers an unparalleled dining experience with stunning city views. It's ideal for minimal, luxe weddings with a touch of French opulence. Although logistics can be challenging due to the small loading lift, the venue's unique ambiance is worth it. Learn more at Vue de Monde.
Butler Lane, Richmond
Butler Lane is a modern warehouse conversion in Richmond, perfect for diverse events with its classy, cool vibe. It features beautifully landscaped gardens and a large interior space, great for creative styling. Managed by Peter Rowland Catering, you're in good hands. Check out Butler Lane.
The Deck, St Kilda
The Deck, above St. Kilda's Prince Hotel, is a stylish venue with everything you need: ceremony and reception spaces, accommodation, a day spa, and a restaurant with a private dining space. The Prince Hotel's executive chef, Dan Hawkins, ensures top-notch food and service. For a summer wedding, visit The Deck.
I hope you find this list helpful for planning your dream wedding day. If you have any questions about Melbourne wedding venues, feel free to reach out. We're always here to help with our firsthand, unbiased experience.
Happy wedding planning!
Kate x
