Choosing Your Ceremony Location: Tips, Costs, and Venue Ideas

Your ceremony location sets the stage for your big day — it’s where the magic happens, where you say “I do”, and where your first memories as a married couple are made.

At Michelle and Dusty Wedding Ceremonies, we love helping couples find a location that feels just right. From intimate gardens to coastal backdrops, we’ll guide you through what’s involved, what to consider, and some of our favourite venues in the Hunter Valley and Central Coast.

1. What’s Involved in Choosing a Ceremony Location

Picking a location isn’t just about what looks beautiful — it’s also about logistics and comfort.

Here’s what to think about:

1. Style & Vibe

• Do you want something formal, elegant, rustic, beachy, or relaxed?

• Consider whether the location matches your personality and the tone of your wedding.

2. Guest Numbers

• Make sure the location can comfortably fit your guest list.

• Check seating, parking, and accessibility for all ages.

3. Timing & Weather

• If it’s outdoors, consider the season and potential weather.

• Some venues have backup options like marquees or indoor areas.

4. Ceremony Needs

• Can you bring in a celebrant, musician, or your own styling?

• Are there restrictions on decor, candles, or signage?

5. Legal Considerations

• Your celebrant will need to confirm that the location is suitable for a legal marriage ceremony in Australia.

• Ensure there’s space for signing the legal documents and that the ceremony area is private enough for your guests.

2. Costs and What’s Included

Ceremony locations in Australia vary in cost depending on the type of venue and inclusions.

Here’s a general guide:

1. Public Parks & Gardens

• Costs can range from $200 to $800 for permits.

• Usually, you’ll need to organise your own seating, decor, and permits.

2. Venues with Ceremony Packages

• Many venues offer an all-inclusive ceremony package, often from $500 to $2,500.

• This can include seating, arbour, styling, decor, and even a backup plan for rain.

3. Private Properties or Airbnbs

• Renting a private home or property can range widely ($500–$2,000+) depending on size and location.

• You may need to organise seating, decor, and permits separately.

What’s usually included in a venue package:

• Arbor or focal point for the ceremony

• Seating for guests (number depends on package)

• Some styling elements like candles, flowers, or draping

• Access to the space before the ceremony for setup

• Staff assistance for timing and coordination

At Michelle and Dusty Wedding Ceremonies, we also offer ceremony styling that can be added to almost any location — giving you beautiful seating, arbour choices, artificial flowers, welcome signage, and more — even if the venue itself doesn’t include them.

3. Venue Ideas We Love

Over the years, we’ve had the pleasure of officiating ceremonies at some amazing spots around the Hunter Valley, Central Coast, and Newcastle areas. Here are a few ideas:

Hunter Valley

• Bimbadgen Estate – Elegant vineyard setting with stunning views.

• Gartelmann Wines – Rustic charm with rolling hills and greenery.

• Peterson House – Boutique vineyard, intimate and romantic.

• Local gardens or arboretums – Perfect for intimate, nature-inspired ceremonies.

Central Coast

• Pearl Beach Arboretum – Coastal vibes with bushland and birdsong.

• White Barn – Classic white venue, beautiful photo opportunities with large doors and gardens.

• Hawks Nest & Myall Lakes areas – Beach or water-side ceremonies for relaxed, coastal weddings.

• Local private properties – Often personalised and unique to your style.

Each location comes with its own charm, so the best choice is one that matches your vision, guest numbers, and vibe.

4. How We Can Help

Choosing a ceremony location can feel overwhelming — but you don’t have to do it alone. At Michelle and Dusty Wedding Ceremonies, we can:

• Recommend locations based on your style, guest numbers, and budget

• Check the venue is suitable for a legal ceremony

• Advise on styling options and how to enhance any location

• Coordinate with venue staff or other suppliers for smooth setup

Even if you’ve already chosen your venue, we can bring ceremony styling and organisation to almost any location, so your day looks polished and flows seamlessly.

In a Nutshell

Your ceremony location sets the tone for your wedding day — and choosing the right one involves more than just picking a pretty backdrop. Consider style, guests, logistics, costs, and inclusions.

Whether it’s a vineyard in the Hunter Valley, a coastal arboretum on the Central Coast, or your own backyard, the right venue makes your ceremony feel magical, personal, and memorable.

At Michelle and Dusty Wedding Ceremonies, we’re here to guide you, make the legal and styling aspects easy, and ensure your ceremony is as beautiful and stress-free as possible.