Bellarine Peninsula – a wedding destination unveiled

 

It’s no secret to the locals of the area that the Bellarine Peninsula is fast becoming a hot spot for wedding celebrations.  With its breathtaking natural beauty and laid back vibe, there is a setting for every celebration.

An eclectic and engaging mix of ocean views, grazing land, tiny but glorious coastal towns, working wineries and olive groves – not to mention true bayside bliss – The Bellarine is fast-becoming known as a great place to eat, drink, play and stay.

 

THE CREAM OF THE CROP OF THE BELLARINE WEDDING SUPPLIERS

VENUES

The Bellarine boasts some of the best venues you will find, in this romantic region you are truly spoiled for choice. If sensational ocean views are at the top of your list when it comes to finding a venue, then you need look no further than Jack Rabbit, Rusty Gate and Baie Wines. These properties will leave your guests gasping and provide many a photo opportunity.  Merne at Lighthouse is an idyllic location situated amongst a thriving olive grove and blossoming vineyard while Oakdene is set on coastal farmland and will provide an unforgettable experience. It would also be impossible to bypass the iconic Terindah Estate and 360Q.

Wherever you turn, there’s a venue to suit your needs and no doubt it will be a breathtaking beauty with incredible produce too. If you’d like more venue recommendations on the The Bellarine, click here.

 

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Everyone needs their day captured to perfection right? Thankfully, The Bellarine has an abundance of photographers that can capture all the magical moments as they unfold.

Elk and Willow, Tony Evans and Stefani Driscoll are some of our favourite local lens legends and they will create memories for you to treasure for many years to come. For even more options – the Ivory Tribe directory has got you sorted.

 

FLORISTS

Local florists She’s a Wildflower and Moss Industry are renowned for their fabulous florals and will inject some petal power into your wedding day. While based in Geelong, As Daisy Does happily prepares blooms for The Bellarine. If you’re looking for gorgeous foliage, for styling or hire then Olive Green Plant & Prop are an incredible option for glamourous greenery too.

 

CELEBRANTS

A great celebrant can really set the tone for your day as well as minimise ceremony nerves! Thankfully this is where the Geelong Celebrant Collective steps in, and they can help you find the perfect celebrant for you. Well-versed in all the local venues, and always a great source of information when it comes to selecting other vendors, it doesn’t get much easier!

 

STYLING AND PLANNING

If you want your day to go off without a hitch, then investing in a planner can be a huge help and thankfully The Bellarine has this in Whisked Away Events. Of course if you want your day to look good with fancy finishing touches then Weddings of Desire is well-known for their elegant and classic touch, while Wanderlust Creative will bring creative flair to the day.

 

CATERERS

Another thing The Bellarine does incredibly well is food, so you’re guaranteed that local caterers will run with only the best produce in the region. Annie’s Kitchen are Barwon Heads based and have a reputation for food that not only looks good, but tastes even better. Sarah Roe Catering is perfect for the main event and can also put on fabulous fare for a bridal party getting ready, or the next day when their delicious boxed bites will leave your guests feeling full. Daily Food Co can also provide gourmet fare for any style and taste and Truffleduck are of course another local foodie favourite.

 

BEAUTY

We all want to look our best for the big day and there are some incredible hair and makeup artists on The Bellarine. Studio 2 will have you looking and feeling amazing with their hair and makeup looks. Kalo Hair Beauty are true artists when it comes to hair and of course while they are Geelong based, Cassandra de Bruin and Hilary Holmes can travel, and you’re in the best of hands when you engage their talent for your big day.

ENTERTAINMENT

It’s important that you have a party starter to set the mood –  music is so important! After all you want your guests to dance til they drop, and perhaps even evoke an appropriate emotional tear or two when the time is right. Some of our local melodic favourites are darling duo Tom and Tayla, as well as solo sensations Cal Young and Luke Legs. Still not sure what you’re looking for? Geelong Entertainment Services can help provide the perfect entertainment solution from a wide range of options.

There’s an endless array of Bellarine Peninsula talent, and if you’re searching for even more, Ivory Tribe has an entire directory of supreme wedding suppliers to suit every aspect of your celebration.

 

 

WHY YOU SHOULD GET MARRIED ON THE BELLARINE

The Bellarine boasts beauty at almost every corner, from sleepy seaside villages to the delectable delights of local produce and fine wine.  Quite simply, you could spend days and weeks on end taking in the stunning vistas with a glass of wine in hand as you visit the incredible vineyards and feast at the cosy coastal eateries.

 

 

THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN LOOKING AT  THE BELLARINE AS A WEDDING DESTINATION

The Bellarine is without a doubt a stunning place to have your wedding, it attracts locals and tourists alike all year round, and for great reason. There are a few factors it is worthwhile keeping in mind when looking at choosing The Bellarine as the destination for your wedding.

 

Weather

Like any destination, weather can vary on The Bellarine. Thankfully there are an abundance of options and locations when it comes to hosting your wedding celebration whatever the weather! The beauty of this region is that it truly is magical at any time of year, a cosy Winter wedding with a red wine in hand, or sun-soaked ceremonies with glistening water views – you really can’t go wrong.

When it comes to hosting your wedding – venues and vendors across the area are well-versed in managing the hottest to the wettest conditions. Put your trust in them, and enjoy The Bellarine all year round.

 

Travel

Many couples choose to bus their guests to their wedding venue, especially if there is limited public transport to the location, and they are easily found through a number of bus companies in the region. Alternatively local taxi and Uber services are available and will have your guests on location in a jiffy! Ensure you give clear directions to your venue to save any confusion on the day.

Accommodation

Accommodation will be easy for your friends and family to find on The Bellarine. From luxe houses, to campgrounds, there is a style to suit any budget. Do factor in the time of year as accommodation will book out quickly over long weekends and school holidays – this area is a hotspot for couples and families looking to escape the rat race and enjoy the local sights and sounds..

 

 

HIDDEN SECRETS

The Bellarine is full of hidden secrets to keep you and your guests amused for hours and days on end! Immerse yourself in all the delights this region offers and you will be very thankful you did.

Some guests may choose to make a weekend of your celebration and with a myriad of accommodation options as well as some premier eateries, your guests will delight in all that this region offers.

 

RESTAURANTS

Weddings are all about celebration, so if you’re looking for some fancy fare to feast on these restaurants will definitely fit the bill.

Merne at Lighthouse is an idyllic location as is their restaurant setting and food. Offering a multiple dish grazing menu, as well as a selection of mains and desserts, all is responsibly and locally sourced. Contemporary dining doesn’t get much better than Marty @ Oakdene. Seasonal ingredients, flawless presentation, unique flavours and textures, various dining options are available all year round.

 

CASUAL EATS

Pre or post wedding celebrations might call for a relaxed environment with gourmet fare, or simply a quick stop to refuel.

These casual eats serve up fabulous food on The Bellarine;

The Whiskery not only has a relaxing environment but they also have cheese and fresh platters as well as simple pizzas that will keep you satisfied. The cafe at Basils Farm has incredible views with a seasonal menu that includes fresh produce from their garden and if you sit in for a Sunday session, you may be lucky enough to enjoy some acoustic tunes. Converted roadhouse PIKNIK is unique and sources only the very best produce from The Bellarine for you to feast on.

 

BARS/COCKTAILS

Feeling thirsty? Thankfully The Bellarine can help quench your thirst with its dazzling drink scene.

Wine bar, Noble Rot, set in pretty Point Lonsdale, is a relaxed place to enjoy a glass of wine or three with its casual menu. Should you prefer to sip on a cider, Flying Brick Cider Co is the perfect place to sample a homebrew (hint, it also doubles as an amazing wedding venue!). And if you don’t have time to settle in, head on over to Barwon Heads Wine Store, who are experts in selecting award-winning wines you can take away with you.

 

COFFEE SPOTS AND CAFES

The Bellarine has an array of excellent cafes and coffee spots that you will find hard to tear yourself away from.

Annie’s Provedore in Barwon Heads is a unique cafe, deli and food store that you simply must visit. Renowned for their quality fare in a relaxed environment, you will thank us for letting you know about this gem. Uncle Jack’s in Ocean Grove is an eatery that will always make you feel welcome and is the perfect place to visit with family and friends for their yummy food.

 

WINERIES/CELLAR DOORS

Wonderful wine is in abundance on The Bellarine thanks to its maritime climate, so it would be negligent if you didn’t stop by to sample a drop or two.

If you enjoy wineries with some of the most sensational sea views then spoil yourself with with Terindah Estate and Jack Rabbit’s views, venues, restaurants and tastings. Pop in quickly or settle in for the day, these lovely locations are a must visit. Looking for a something with a rustic chic ambience? Then Leura Park Estate will catch your eye with its wine and food. Alternatively Bennetts on Bellarine, McGlashan’s Wallington Estate, Bellarine Estate and Scotchmans Hill will leave you feeling like you’ve sampled superb wines and locations also.

 

THINGS TO DO

If your guests are making a weekend away of your wedding celebration, they may find themselves with some spare time on their hands. Luckily for them there is plenty to see and do on The Bellarine.

If you’re into sampling sumptuous food, wonderful wine and seeing the local makers and growers of the region, then following The Bellarine Taste Trail is a great way to not just see but also taste what The Bellarine has on offer.

Of course hopping in a car and simply taking a drive along the coastline will allow you the chance to take in the spectacular scenery as well as visit cosy coastal towns such as Portarlington, Queenscliff and Barwon Heads.

If you’re looking for something active to do, there’s also plenty of that on offer. Golfing on wonderful greens, stand up paddle boarding, swimming with the dolphins in Queenscliff, or taking a dip at the beautiful beaches you will find dotted along the way – while this region is relaxed and romantic, you’re also guaranteed to never get bored.

 

SHOPPING

There are many gorgeous boutiques that can be found along The Bellarine should you wish to pick up an outfit, gift, or something for the home. Wander through the main street of Queenscliff, Ocean Grove and Barwon Heads and you will see what we mean. Alternatively you may find some markets with local wares and delights.

Geelong CBD offers larger retailers and national brands, as well as fashion stores so should you need to make your way into town, nothing is too far away.

 

There is so much to fall in love with when it comes to staying, playing and being married on the beautiful Bellarine. If you’re drawn to the region and all it has to offer, but want to find out more, you can uncover tips, tricks and up-to-date information to help plan your visit by checking out ‘Visit Geelong & The Bellarine’.