Ever thought about one of the wedding venues in Geelong for your big day? ‘Why Geelong?’ you may ask. Well, in a professional Geelong wedding photographer’s point of view, I think Geelong is inarguably one of the most amazing places to get married. Just think about it, weddings in Geelong will be benefited with the relaxed atmosphere, the ocean breeze and stunning bay views and many more.
In fact, when we are talking options, Geelong certainly doesn’t lose the battle when comparing to other popular Melbourne wedding areas such as the Yarra Valley or the Dandenong ranges. Whether you are a beach girl or winery lover, this stunning costal area has got you covered. From homesteads to winery, from beach to pier, there are a huge range of differently unique Geelong wedding Venues to choose from to suit your dream wedding theme. You could find Geelong a bit similar to its sister, Mornington. With similar cool climate with sea breeze, but with a bit touch of uniqueness.
This article will compare the pacakges, capacity and photogrpahy location for Geelong wedding venues.
In this article, I will reveal 10 stunning Geelong wedding venues that I’ve shot in the past. Also, I will attach their basic packages prices and other information. So hopefully this article can help whoever is planning their wedding in Geelong.
- 1. The Pier Geelong
- 2. Jack Rabbit Vineyard
- 3. BAIE Wines
- 4. Merne Lighthouse Drysdale
- 5. Mantra Lorne
- 6. RACV Torquay Resort
- 7. 360Q
- 8. Suma Park
- 9. The Warehouse Geelong
- 10.Chapel on Little Ryrie
1.The Pier Geelong
Situated on the famous Cunningham Pier perched 250m out over the water, the Pier at Geelong offers the prime position as well as excellent ocean views, making it one of the most sought-after wedding venues in Geelong. Being an all-in-one wedding venue, the Pier offers both the ceremony and reception venue on site, so couples who are getting married at the Pier will be benefited with minimum travelling between places. Not to say, the secret rooftop of the venue is an excellent photo spot during sunset hours.
The Pier offers two rooms for couple to hold their wedding ceremony, which are the Lillias Room as well as the Hopetoun Room. While the Hopetoun Room is a perfect venue for a larger ceremony, it also provides the couples with beautiful view of the Western beach during the sunset time. However, the Lillias Room is my personal favourite.
Being one of the few wedding receptions that sits on top of the water, the Lillias Room is the ultimate place to say ‘I do’ in front of the water views. Featuring the full glass sides and ceiling, this room is boasted with picturesque view of the Eastern beach as well as the Geelong Yacht Club. Not only that, the glass house feature also protects you and your guests from the weather.
Being at one of the prime positions in Geelong, there are heaps of photo opportunities surround this wedding venue in Geelong. Obliviously you can start your location at the pier and move over to the beach. But if you are a fan of the greenery and plants, the Geelong Botanical Garden is only 10 minutes away.
Your night reception will be held inside the Hopetoun Room, with beautiful interior stylings of carpets and floor-ceiling windows, you and your guests will be enjoying the great water views alongside the tasty foods. The spacious room can fit other vendor such as photobooth, DJ and fireworks with no issue.
See real weddings we’ve shot at the Pier
Highlight of the Pier
– Waterfront wedding with sensational view
– Prime position on Cunningham Pier
– Ceremony on terrace
Price/package info of the Pier
– Price per head: From $86.00 to $145.00 per head
– Reception Guests: Max 260 seated
– Ceremony Options: Indoor in either Lillia or Hopetoun Room
– Ceremony Guests: Max 200
Contact info of the Pier
– Address: 10 Western Foreshore Rd, Geelong
– Phone: (03) 5222 6444
2.Jack Rabbit Vineyard
Situated on the North side of the dynamic Bellarine Peninsula, Jack Rabbit is one of the Geelong wedding venues that has long been on my wish list. From stunning ceremony locations to expansive ocean view, this stunning winery wedding venue certainly offers couple all. And I’m so glad that I finally got to shoot a wedding there this year.
One little drawback of this vineyard is as they do not offer on-site accommodation, you will need to find somewhere else for your morning getting ready. So if you are based in the Melbourne and coming along to Geelong to spend your big day, an accommodation is recommended.
The Jack Rabbit is famous for its wedding ceremony location, and when you see it in person, you will realize why this Geelong wedding venues has become one of the most popular venues recently. The unrivalled, sweeping views of the bay as well as the impressive vineyards act as an excellent backdrop for your wedding ceremony. Based on my experience, one thing to look out during your wedding ceremony is the wind. So for stationeries you may want to secure them safely and tell your celebrant to bring a loud and wind-proof PA system.
For your location photos at the Jack Rabbit, you will find sublime photo opportunities inside as there are just so many worth-shooting photo spots. The vineyards, the rolling hills or you can go down all the way to the beaches.
Two reception venues are available for you to choose from for your night celebration at Jack Rabbit, which is the Vineyard restaurant and the House of Jack Rabbit. The House of Jack Rabbit is situated on the edge of rolling hill, offers stunning view towards the ocean. On the other hand, the Jack Rabbit Vineyard Restaurant is truly one of a kind: with its cool, industrial chic vibe design. The restaurant features an expansive, sundrenched deck for pre-dinner drinks and first dance later the night. Moving into the restaurant, you will be greeted with the French provincial and contemporary design, guaranteeing a beautiful night.
See real weddings we’ve shot at Jack Rabbit
Highlight of Jack Rabbit
– Winery wedding venue with unrivalled views
– Prime position on Cunningham Pier
– Ceremony on terrace
Price/package info of Jack Rabbit
– Price per head: From $180.00 to $200.00 per head
– Reception Guests: Minimum 80 seated Max 200 Cocktail
– Reception Options: Vineyard restaurant and House of Jack Rabbit
– Ceremony Venue Hire: $1300.00
– Venue Hire: House of JR starts from $3500.00; Vineyard Restaurant starts from $2500
See Jack Rabbit Wedding Package here
Contact info of the Jack Rabbit
– Address: 85 McAdams Lane, Bellarine
– Phone: (03) 5222 6444
3. BAIE Wines
Located in the Bellarine Peninsula, BAIE Wines of the coolest wedding venues in Geelong that I’ve shot at. Being a winery wedding venue near the bay, couples who are getting married there will be benefiting from not only the fine wines but also the stunning waterfront views overlooking the Port Phillip Bay.
Weddings at BAIE are not just about the stunning views though, the versatility allows you to really put in your creativity and uniqueness into your own weddings. Multiple locations can be used on site for your ceremony and for your reception, if you want your night party to go to the next level, you can even set up a marquee.
Although BAIE does offer accommodations, I would always suggest couples who are planning an urban getaway wedding to start their morning preparation in an Airbnb. There are heaps awesome townhouses in the Portarlington area with great ocean view.
Walk in to this Geelong wedding venues, you will firstly be greeted with the beautiful tree lined driveway. And for your ceremony, multiple locations within the venue can be used including the lawn, the vineyard or you can set up your own marquee. While the vineyard provides a greenery background for your wedding ceremony, the lawn in front of the ocean is my personal favourite: with an expansive view of the Port Philip Bay and the crop field, it’s hard to find any backdrop better than that.
Being a large winery venue, BAIE also offers endless opportunities for location photos afterwards. When I did my first venue scouting there at this Geelong wedding reception, I instantly fell in love with the golden crop field, it would be amazing for to the couples to take a walk in there. Then we have the rustic barn house which is also excellent as a photo background. Being as a winery wedding venue, the vineyard is also a must do location for photos.
At the night, you will be enjoying the relaxing vibe inside the industrial winery shed. And outside on the lawn, you can use it for pre-dinner drink area.
See real weddings we’ve shot at BAIE Weddings
Highlight of BAIE Weddings
– Great versatility, multiple locations available to be chosen from
– Great photo opportunities
– Friendly service
Price/package info of BAIE Weddings
– Price per head: From $120.00 to $160.00 per head
– Reception Guests: Max 120 seated
– Ceremony Options: Lawn, vineyard or in Marquee
– Venue Hire: $7,000 for use of property
Contact info of the BAIE Weddings
– Address: 120 McDermott Road, Curlewis
– Phone: +61 408 522 605
4. Merne Lighthouse Drysdale
Merne at the Lighthouse is one of the wedding venues in Geelong that I recently shot at. Although this venue is not as popular as others that I’ve listed in this blog, with its unique setting and relaxed vibe, this unique Geelong wedding venue will eventually shine.
Located on the beautiful Bellarine Peninsula, Merne at Lighthouse holds an idyllic location situated amongst lush olive groves and blossoming vineyard. Divided by the huge lawn, the main reception is on the other side of the venue, the reception room is on the upper deck features a great look out to the olive groves. And behind the reception, there is a forest which can be used as ceremony location.
At Merne, you can choose your ceremony location either on the lawn or in the forest. Depending on your personal preference, the forest provides a rustic feeling to the wedding while the ceremony on lawn while be benefiting with a greenery background.
Being in an all in one wedding venue in Geelong, couples getting married at Merne no longer need to worry about travelling to different locations for photos. Onsite, there are a nice-looking vineyard, olive tree groves as well as a rustic forest. These three different locations certainly remove the limitation on creativity of wedding photography. I can create different looking photos at each location.
For your night reception, Merne offers flexibility by allowing different settings of dinner, from large sitting down feasts to stand up cocktail style, they will have you covered. While they can serve tasty from their own kitchen, they are more than happy if you want to find a caterer.
See real weddings we’ve shot at Merne at Lighthouse
Highlight of Merne at Lighthouse
– Idyllic lighthouse location
– Great photo opportunities
– All you need in one wedding venue
Price/package info of Merne at Lighthouse
– Price per head: From $145.00 to $165.00 per head
– Reception Guests: Max 100 seated or 150 Cocktail
– Ceremony Options: Gumtree forest or on the lawn, indoor when rainy
Contact info of the Merne at Lighthouse
– Address: 650 Andersons Road, Drysdale
– Phone: (03) 5251 5541
5. Mantra Lorne
Set amongst 12 acres of perfectly curated gardens inside the small-town Lorne, weddings at Mantra Lorne are truly an urban getaway bliss. This wedding venues in Geelong offers easterly views to the Pacific Ocean and lush green grounds, which serve as unrivalled backdrop for your wedding at Mantra.
During the time that I shot the wedding there, I quickly fell in love with its versatilities. Being a large garden estate wedding venue, Mantra offers some many places, so many options to couples so they can truly customize their own weddings. From ceremony on the lawn to the outdoor reception under the festoon lights, Mantra truly removes the limitation on couple’s imagination.
We all know Mantra is a hotel chain, and when you booked Mantra as your wedding venue, this means your accommodations are sorted. Imagine waking up on your wedding day with the stunning views of the great sea view and the ocean breeze, plus there is no need to worry rush to your wedding ceremony as it would be just downstairs.
For your wedding ceremony at this Geelong wedding venue, you can choose between holding it either on the lawn or on the beach. While the beach ceremony is certainly stunning, something to be aware is the wind and weather you might get caught up there. For the last wedding I shot at Mantra Lorne, the couple chose to have their ceremony on the lawn, facing towards the heritage building. An alternative is you can say ‘I do’ on the other end of the lawn, this time in front of the rotunda.
For location photos at the Mantra, a little bit of walking is required. On the back side of this Geelong wedding venue, there is a huge tree lined avenue, which is ideal for car shots if you do hire a limo on the day. Walking along the road, you will find the iconic bridge on the river. If you fancy some beach wedding photos, the beach will be another 2 minutes away.
Your night reception can be held outside on the lawn as an outdoor venue or you can party hard inside the private dining room with old-world heritage.
See real weddings we’ve shot at Mantra Lorne
Highlight of Mantra Lorne
– Easterly views to the Pacific Ocean
– Great versatility
– Affordable pricing with accommodations available
Price/package info of Mantra Lorne
– Price per head: From $120.00 to $165.00 per head
– Reception Guests: Min 65, Max 500
– Ceremony Options: Lawn, Rotunda, Beach and Observatory
– Ceremony Hire Fee: $1000.00, permit for beach ceremony starts from $120.00
See wedding packages of Mantra Lorne here
Contact info of the Mantra Lorne
– Address: Mountjoy Parade, Lorne
– Phone: (03) 5228 9777
6. RACV Torquay Reserve
With a picture-perfect backdrop of both the Torquay and Jan Juc beaches, the RACV Torquay Resort is one of the most sought-after wedding venues in Geelong. Located at the number 1 Great Ocean Road Torquay, the RACV reserve is only 20 minutes away from the Geelong. Featuring an expansive gold course with breathtaking ocean views, the beach near the venue is only few steps away.
One great advantage about this Geelong wedding venue is you get to choose your own desired ceremony place. With onsite venue available, you can even say ‘I do’ on the beach to make your ultimate beach wedding dream come true.
There are a variety of picturesque photo locations surrounding this wedding venue in Geelong, providing the couple with endless photo opportunities. From the stylish architecture, breathtaking ocean backdrop, as well as the curated lawn of the gold course, RACV guarantees your wedding photography to ‘wow’ everyone.
The night reception is held inside the main function room inside the RACV Reserve. With its modern setting featuring lots of floor-ceiling windows, you will enjoy the stunning view of the striking panoramic ocean view. The neural colour interior allows you to design your own dream venue with your preference. On the side, a small balcony is also available for small gathering and excellent for some sunset photos.
See real weddings we’ve shot at RACV Torquay Reserve
Highlight of RACV Torquay Reserve
– Great view of both the ocean and gold course
– Multiple ceremony locations available
– Contemporary reception setting capable to hold up to 400 guests
Price/package info of RACV Torquay Reserve
– Price per head: From $155.00 to $180.00 per head
– Reception Guests: Min 20, Max 400
– Ceremony Options: indoor or on beach
See wedding packages of RACV Torquay Reserve here
Contact info of the RACV Torquay Reserve
– Address: 1 Great Ocean Road, Torquay
– Phone: (03) 5261 1600
7. 360Q
Being one of the most popular restaurants in Queenscliff, 360Q has also earned its spot of one of the best wedding venues in Geelong. It is true, when there is great food, stunning ocean view as well as cool friends, there is pretty much all you would ask for your ideal wedding. The two levelled function space offers an expansive view across the stunning Queenscliff Harbour and Port Philip Bay, alongside are the countless boats stopped by the pier.
If you have been dreaming about a beach wedding, then this is the right place for you. Conveniently located closed to the beach, you can easily set up your dream wedding ceremony with no hassle. All you need is a permit from the local council.
Being one the wedding venues in Geelong, there are guaranteed endless photo opportunities there. After your wedding ceremony, you can start your location photos right away on the pier. I’ll would take the couple out again during the sunset time onto the observation tower just alongside the venue, the golden lighting can provide your wedding photos with a touch of romance and timeless feel.
Your night reception will be carefully taken care by the famous chef Barry and his friendly team. The interior of the function room features numerous floor-ceiling window, allowing you to really enjoy the stunning view across the ocean and the pier.
See real weddings we’ve shot at 360Q
Highlight of 360Q
– Unrivalled views from upstairs space
– Renowned food and service
– Next to the observation tower which is good for photos
Price/package info of 360Q
– Price per head: From $105.00 to 125.00 per head
– Beverage Packages: From $60.00 to $75.00
– Reception Guests: Min 20, Max 200
Contact info of the 360Q
– Address: 2 Wharf Street, Queenscliff
– Phone: (03) 5257 4200
8. Suma Park
Filled with lush manicured lawns and gardens, Suma Park is the perfect venue for a countryside setting wedding in Bellarine Peninsula. Being a unique heritage property in Geelong, Suma Park offers couples either the recently refurbished Homestead or the Stable for reception place. It is also the last stop of the famous Blue Train in the Bellarine.
At Suma Park, two options are available for couples to choose their ceremony places including the outdoor garden as well as the conservatory. While the conservatory is an indoor function space provides shelter for the bride and groom when the weather turns wet, saying ‘I do’ at the outside garden remains the more popular options for most of the couples. With the backdrop of the picturesque view of Swan Bay and Port Phillip Bay, your wedding at this stunning Geelong wedding venue will truly be one of a kind.
Suma Park also provides endless opportunities for wedding photography. The manicured garden, vineyard, the steam train as well as the stations are just some of the popular photo locations within this giant wedding venue in Bellarine Peninsula.
Your reception will be held in either the historic Homestead or the Stable, the rustic feeling combined with tasty wine directly from the vineyard guarantees your night to be memorable.
See real weddings we’ve shot at Suma Park
Highlight of Suma Park
– Stunning view across the Swan Bay and Port Phillip Bay
– Endless photo opportunities
– Seamless wedding experience with accommodation onsite
Price/package info of Suma Park
– Price per head: From $95.00
– Reception Guests: Min 20, Max 200
Contact info of the Suma Park
– Address: 2258 Bellarine Hwy, Marcus Hill
– Phone: (03) 5258 3507
9. The Warehouse Geelong
If you are looking are planning a rustic wedding with a touch of industrial and contemporary feel, then look no further than the Warehouse. Located conveniently closed to the Geelong CBD, this wedding venue is one of the most sought-after option for a warehouse-styled wedding. It’s versatility also allows couples to hold both ceremony and reception directly on site, providing a real stress-free wedding experience.
Just next to the warehouse, you will find the Warehouse apartments, where can spend your night prior to the wedding in. And for your wedding ceremony at the Warehouse, being inside not only prevents you and your guests from the wet weather or harsh sunlights, the interior inside the Warehouse is also competitive. Tie the knot in front of the exposed timer trusses, the backdrop provides a clean and minimalistic backdrop to your wedding ceremony photos.
Although when comparing to other vineyard or homestead-based wedding venues in Geelong, the Warehouse doesn’t have much photo locations directly on site. However, after few steps walking with your bridal party, you will still find quite a few stunning photo spots that worth to do photos at. The warehouse’s wall and the rolling door as well as the laneway are great for bridal party photos. And if you want to take your wedding photography to the next level, you can add some ocean elements to it by doing some photos at the beach nearby.
Your night at the Warehouse will be relaxing and enjoyable. With a full range of functions including heating and cooling, you are protected from the changing weather in Geelong. The interior with exposed timber trusses, high ceilings and polished concrete floors will make you feel like it’s the place to be in.
Highlight of the Warehouse Geelong
– Boutique loft accommodations
– All in one venue with affordable pricing
– Unique and elegant design makes it one of the most sought-after in Geelong
Price/package info of the Warehouse Geelong
– Reception Hire: starts from $5500.00
– Ceremony Guests: Min 20, Max 200
– Reception Guests: Min 20, Max 200
Contact info of the Warehouse Geelong
– Address: 5 Little Ryrie Street, Geelong
– Phone: +61 431 036 688
10. Chapel on Little Ryrie
Next to the Warehouse Geelong, on the same street you will find another hidden gem wedding venue in Geelong: The Chapel on Little Ryrie. As a unique chapel-styled wedding venue, what makes the Chapel on Little Ryrie even more special is the fact that it is the oldest Baptist church of its kind in Victoria, with over 150 years of history. If you are looking for a heritage wedding venue to match with your vintage wedding theme, then look further than the Chapel.
Walk into the Chapel, you will immediately be immersed with the heritage structure and the abundance of natural lighting. The Chapel also features a cut away transparent floor that showcases the original baptismal bath.
With affordable pricing packages, this all in one wedding venue Geelong provides space for both ceremony as well as reception. And for your night reception, you can choose from standing cocktail style or a formal sit-down dinner. The Chapel on little Ryrie offers a truly amazing choice for couples who are planning an intimate wedding in Geelong.
Highlight of the Chapel on Little Ryrie
– Oldest Baptist chapel in Victoria
– All in one venue with affordable pricing
– Vintage and intimate setting
Price/package info of the Chapel on Little Ryrie
– Price per head: starts from $18.00 to $80.00
– Ceremony Guests: Min 50, Max 200
– Ceremony Options: indoor and outdoor
– Reception Guests: Min 50, Max 200
Contact info of the Chapel on Little Ryrie
– Address: 10 Little Ryrie Street, Geelong
– Phone: (03) 5222 6905
So there you have it: the top 10 best and unique venues in Geelong and Bellarine Peninsula area. As I’ve mentioned, Geelong has always been a magic place with ocean views, homestead as well as vineyards. If you are planning your magical wedding Geelong, you would definitely need a professional Geelong wedding photographer to capture the essence of your big day.
Hire us now.
