Header image provided by Wildheart Photography.
Do you want to do you? Your own unique style of wedding?
More and more couples are loving the ability to create their own wedding and bring their unique vibe to their big day and this is where DIY venues come in. You know, the ones that are a blank canvas, they can be whatever you want them to be.
We are super fortunate to have four of this type of venue in our region: alphabetically we start with Bellbrae Harvest which is in Bellbrae near Torquay, Harvester Moon in Bellarine near Drysdale, Rocklea Farm in Stonehaven near Geelong, and Tuckerberry Hill Events in Drysdale. We may have more but I just don’t know of them or haven’t worked there.
All are very individual, each with their own highlights and different packages, and an inspection is a must. It’s a bit like engaging a celebrant … you need to meet them to know if they’re going to be the right fit for you both.
Caitlin & Jackson looking across the lily pond to the reception at Bellbrae Harvest captured by Wildheart Photography
So I’ll kick off with Bellbrae Harvest which is just in from the Surf Coast. Ken and Deb are your hosts and are on hand with their staff to help make your day THE best day ever. No matter the weather, BH is always gorgeous and puts on its own special show in autumn with those magnificent vines. The vibe is rustic country charm and you can do the food truck thing or something more formal if that’s your go. Ceremony-wise there’s the beautiful lily-pond backdrop or, if it’s wet, wet, wet, I’ve done them under the marquee which has clear sides so you can still see that stunning outlook. They have onsite accommodation which is a bonus and don’t forget to try their signature drink, Pimms!
Check out some of my weddings at Bellbrae Harvest below.
Images provided by Little Cine Film, Wildheart Photography, and Allie Claire Creative.
Moving over to The Bellarine, we’ve got both Harvester Moon and Tuckerberry Hill Events. I’ll focus on HM first. Tracey is your host at this award-winning venue which can be tailored to a range of styles from bohemian through to retro or simply with a touch of elegance. It’s totally up to you. They have a commercial kitchen ready for your caterers if that’s your choice, or they have the space for food trucks so all good there. They have a cute little dance area inside but it’s the outside garden where HM excels. There are lots of relaxed spaces for guests to enjoy which leads through to the ceremony space and it all just flows seamlessly.
Harvester Moon also has a perfect little hideaway for you and your crew to take a step back from all the craziness and excitement and soak up the moment just as a couple.
Images provided by Coastal Kombi Weddings and Capturing The Moments.
And whilst I’m on The Bellarine, let’s pop over to Tuckerberry Hill Events. Sisters Ali and Pip will help you create your dream wedding at their picturesque blueberry farm located near Drysdale. Tuckerberry is the new kid on the block and they’ve thrown their heart and soul into creating the perfect space for you. There are various ceremony spaces, a room where you can take a deep breath away from the hustle and bustle, a commercial kitchen ready for your caterers, or a spacious food truck area. Not to mention the grassy area perfect for giant Jenga or other lawn games, photo booths, etc. And the courtyard/outdoor space is fabulous for guests to relax and enjoy the gorgeous views.
From a more formal sit-down reception through to a cocktail-style celebration, Tuckerberry might just be your answer.
Relax in the bush setting that is Tuckerberry Hill.
And finally, but definitely not last, is the romantic and iconic Rocklea Farm. Located in the small hamlet known as Stonehaven, it’s just a few Ks west of Geelong. Rocklea is the definition of a blank canvas and Dave and Glen will do everything they possibly can to make your day special. I’ve done weddings there from rustic through to black-tie, under the famous gum tree, in the marquee, in the courtyard, and in the barn, and they’ve all had their own stunning style and vibe. Rocklea’s versatility makes it easy for couples to bring their dream to life.
Rocklea has a commercial kitchen that makes catering a breeze. It also has a spacious courtyard for the food trucks, the DJ, the photobooths and more. There is a nice big grassy section for lawn games and you have a well set up private room to get ready in. And, of course, why not take advantage of accommodation on site with the glamping tents for you and your guests.
Amber and Steve under THAT gum tree at Rocklea. Image provided by Ed Sloane.
Images provided by Ed Sloane Weddings, Wildheart Photography and Emily Howlett Photography.
So, as you can see, we are spoilt in our region for fabulous options at different price points and this can only be a good thing for you in your planning. There are so many ways for you to express yourselves through your wedding and a DIY venue might just be a good base to build from. Visits their websites via the links at the top of the article.
Drop us a like or comment below if you’ve found this article helpful. Happy planning!