I so love my job for a myriad of reasons, not least is meeting the most amazing people but also I discover some gold nuggets along the way. Like the following hidden gems I'm going to share with you, my gorgeous, loved-up couples!
And when I say 'hidden gems', I'm focussing on venues that aren't your traditional type. We have a plethora of stunning venues across The Bellarine and the Greater Geelong area, down the Surf Coast and up to Ballarat. But, it's the little funky places that have sparked my interest and may just give you another option!
I stumbled across Qii House when a gorgeous couple from Ballarat invited me to be their celebrant at their wedding in this quirky little place. So I contacted Heather and organised a visit. It is perfect if you want to get away from it all and do your own thang! It sleeps 8 people in what I'd call understated-luxury. My couple's ceremony is to be held on a cute little decking area with the garden as a backdrop and the reception is on the other side of the house on a massive balcony overlooking a valley that makes you think you're up with the eagles. Heather is happy for couples to create their own styling and my Ballarat couple are using the boys at Dream Ceremony Decor in Geelong to create a floral backdrop. They are also hiring two spit roasts and some guests will be throwing down their swags on the balcony to sleep under the stars at the end of the celebrations! If you are after an intimate and DIY venue, this might be worth a look. Click on the photo below to visit Heather's website.
Qii House in the Great Otway National Park
In the heart of Geelong, and in a very different vein, is Sabina on Lt Myers. Helen took me on a tour of this historic home which accommodates up to 6 guests. The outside is deceptive but once you walk through the stunning home and out into the big back garden, it's easy to visualise a full-blown wedding taking place. Past weddings have used a local supplier to provide a marquee which fits perfectly in one half of the backyard - Helen can give you their details. There is a quaint little fountain area which would make an awesome backdrop for the ceremony and Helen has created a gorgeous wall of hedging which adds a certain European feel. There is a hidden away outside toilet which is perfect for guests and the kitchen is beautifully equipped for the caterers. And, of course, the house provides the perfect bridal prep setup! My photo doesn't do the place justice so please visit Helen's website.
Sabina on Lt Myers in Geelong
And the next venue is the stunning Blue Wren Park in Sutherland's Creek. If you're looking for a garden wedding, this has the wow factor! I visited in winter and it was still beautiful with the fruit trees in blossom. A lake provides a gorgeous backdrop for your ceremony or you can climb to the top of the property for a wedding with an a-Mazing view! What I like here is you can book BWP just for the ceremony or you can also have the reception in a marquee in the grounds behind the lake. Michelle would love to show you around and discuss options but do check out her website for more info. It's definitely a hidden gem this one!
