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Planning a kick-ass wedding takes a lot of work, and finding the right venue is one of the most challenging aspects of it. Not only does it have to be picture-perfect, but it also needs to accommodate all of your guests, be accessible enough for everyone, and work with your budget.
While that sounds like a tall order, there are actually a lot of wedding venues in Canberra that fit the bill – you just have to do some research! But to save you time and energy, we compiled a list of the most in-demand restaurants, hotels, and public spaces for a picturesque wedding.
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Things To Consider When Picking The Perfect Wedding Venue
Choosing the right venue is going to require both practicality and sentiment. On the practical side, the wedding venue you choose will likely dictate other aspects of your ceremony, such as your catering, entertainment, and decor. On the meaningful side, your venue sets the right tone for your wedding. From quirky outdoor venues to luxurious hotel ballrooms, the venue will provide a unique experience, so make sure you choose wisely.
Not sure how to go about choosing the right venue? Here are a few things you should keep in mind:
Wedding Date
Venues can book one, maybe two weddings a day, so it’s important to book yours before someone else steals your spot! If you already have a date set, check which venues are available on that day. If you don’t have a set wedding date, you’ll have a lot more flexibility with your options.
Venue Location & Accessibility
Unless you’re having a destination wedding, your wedding venue’s accessibility is incredibly important. The closer the location is to where your guests live, the more guests can accept your invite.
Accessibility isn’t just about where it is, though – it’s also about how easy it is to get to the venue, whether there’s enough parking for everyone, and if the venue has ramps and elevators to cater to your elderly or disabled guests.
Guest Capacity
While it is helpful to have a guest list before you book your wedding venue, all you really need is a rough estimate of how many guests you’re inviting. Small weddings under 200 pax usually have more choices than big weddings with hundreds or thousands of guests. So before you commit to a venue, just make sure you get the headcount right because you don’t want your reception venue feeling too cramped or too oversized for the occasion!
Aesthetic & Theme
The vibe you get from a local winery is leagues different from the vibe you get from a 5-star ballroom. Whether or not your wedding has a theme, it’s important to get the mood right. Are you going for something charming and rustic, or do you want something elegant and grand? A venue’s aesthetic sets the base for your decorations and overall atmosphere.
Facilities & Inclusions
Some venues simply offer you a space to hold your wedding ceremony, while others offer you the works including photographers, florists, catering, hosts, entertainment, and more. If you want a venue that can take over some of the wedding planning work, go for one that offers full wedding packages.
Budget
The “perfect” venue is one that doesn’t put you into debt. Choose a location that’s within your budget and you’ll be able to splurge on the things that matter – your wedding dress, your honeymoon, or your new life with your spouse.
The Best Wedding Venues In Canberra
Goolabri
Location: Sutton
Capacity: Up to 450 guests, seated OR 1000 guests, standing
Price estimate: Inquire for pricing
Check out the Goolabri website here.
Hotel Kurrajong
Location: Barton
Capacity: Up to 300 guests
Price estimate: $AUD 1500 for the ceremony; as low as $115/guest for catering
Check out the Hotel Kurrajong website here.
The Australian National Botanic Gardens
Location: Acton
Capacity: Up to 3000 guests
Price estimate: Inquire for pricing
Check out the Australian National Botanic Gardens website here.
Hyatt Hotel
Location: Commonwealth Ave
Capacity: Up to 350 guests
Price estimate: As low as $129/guest
Check out the Hyatt Hotel website here.
The National Arboretum
Location: Molonglo Valley
Capacity: Up to 100 guests
Price estimate: As low as $1350
Check out the National Arboretum website here.
The Boat House
Location: Barton
Capacity: Up to 180 guests
Price estimate: Inquire for pricing
Check out the Boat House website here.
The National Carillon
Location: Aspen Island
Capacity: Up to 500 guests
Price estimate: Inquire for pricing
Check out the National Carillon website here.
Gold Creek Chapel
Location: Nicholls
Capacity: Up to 130 guests, seated
Price estimate: As low as $AUD 990
Check out the Chapel at Gold Creek website here.
Conclusion
Booking your wedding venue is one of the biggest challenges of wedding planning. But if you do your research, consult with your SO, and let your heart guide you, you’re sure to make the right decision.
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