Wedding Venues for Hire in South East Melbourne

Your Guide to Hiring Wedding Venues in South East Melbourne

Melbourne is rich in culture with the South Eastern suburbs being a great example of the city’s cultural diversity and colourful heritage.

For ballrooms, hotel venues and elegant wedding receptions, affluent areas such a Brighton, Toorak and Hawthorn will be worth considering. If you’re searching for something a little different, the edgy hipster suburbs of Collingwood, Fitzroy and Richmond offer cosy and unique wedding venues. When looking for that dream wedding venue, you’re certainly spoilt for choice in South East Melbourne. From seaside and riverside venues to rolling hills and hipster vibes, this area of Melbourne has it all.

How much does it cost to hire a wedding venue in South East Melbourne? We can answer that:

• Hire fee – This fee is usually only applied if you are planning on hiring an external catering company. For a small affordable wedding venue, you can expect to pay around $500 - $1000 in venue hire fees. This fee will either be for the entire day, half day or a set amount of hours, so be sure to clarify this before booking the venue. A dry hire is another option which allows you to bring in your own decor, furniture and catering. This could be an inexpensive solution if you have access to these services for free or reduced rates. Dry hire rates start at $595 for the wedding venue. Keep in mind you might also be liable for cleaning the venue after the event. Again, be sure to clarify the terms before booking the venue.
• Minimum spend – This is a common fee structure when hiring a restaurant venue or a pub with a function room. You are obliged to spend a minimum fee for food and drinks and a deposit might need to be paid in advance. Minimum spend fees in South East Melbourne start at $500 to $3,500 for small venues and $6,000 - $18,000 for larger spaces.
• Bespoke packages – Most function venues which cater for weddings offer bespoke package deals. There are various types of packages, some will be for food and beverages, while others might include things like chair covers, balloons, use of extra space, a DJ etc. A time limit might apply to certain bespoke wedding packages so be sure to clarify that before booking.
  For cocktail packages, expect to pay $22 to $120 per person while a multi-course meal ranges from $50 to $195 per person. Most of the more expensive packages will include a bar tab and canapes, as well as other extras. Don’t be afraid to negotiate on the terms, especially if you have a tight budget.

If you would like to get quotes or further info from your shortlist of venues, you can message each venue directly from our website. A venue representative will reply to you via email. It’s just one of the ways Tagvenue makes searching for wedding venues in South East Melbourne much easier.

Here a few of the most popular locations for weddings in South East Melbourne:

• Port Phillip Bay– Looking to impress guests with incredible sea views? Or, perhaps you want to tie the knot with the sand between your toes? Then a suburb surrounding Port Phillip Bay is a perfect choice - St Kilda, Brighton, Elwood are some of our top picks. From informal and laid back to even a grand elegant affair, the seaside towns of South East Melbourne are the ideal canvas for you to create your dream wedding.
• Richmond – This multicultural hip suburb has some exquisite old hotels converted and renovated into bars, restaurants and multi-purpose venues. If you’re searching for a small, intimate wedding venue, then take a look at Bridge Road, Swan Street and Victoria Street. Richmond is a fun and vibrant suburb with plenty of after-party options for the die-hards.
• Yarra Valley – If you're looking for a garden wedding or an outdoor wedding reception, then the picturesque Yarra Valley is just the place for you. Wine farms, rolling hills and Yarra River all make for a stunning wedding reception backdrop.

FAQs about Wedding Venues in South East Melbourne

Can you recommend any venues in South Melbourne with sea views?

Sure! Here are our top picks if you’re after some breathtaking views for your big day:

• True South - If you’re looking for a chill venue and an amazing backdrop, this is the place for you. On top of the stunning views of Port Phillip Bay, this venue offers a soft industrial-style, relaxed atmosphere and a finger-licking good Argentinean/South American menu. Holding up to 120 people, it’s perfect for mid-size ceremonies.
• Brighton Beach Hotel - This stunning hotel, established in the 1840s, has a unique heritage feel but offers all of the amenities of a modern venue. With Brighton beach just across the road, the venue is perfect for a post-ceremony reception. The helpful team will make sure all the details of your big day are looked after and made to perfection.
• Sandringham Hotel - Breathtaking views, modern decor, and an exquisite menu praised by many are what make this venue the ideal choice for your wedding. With three different spaces available for hire, you can choose the one that will match your ceremony perfectly.

What should I pay attention to when booking a wedding venue in South East Melbourne?

When booking a wedding venue here, there are several factors to consider:

The size - Consider the number of people you’re inviting and find a location that can accommodate everyone.

Availability - Check to see if the venue is available on your preferred wedding date, especially if you're planning to get married during the peak season (which usually falls between October and April).

Services - Check what services, like catering or decorating, are included in venue hire fees. Some venues may offer all-inclusive packages that include these items; other venues will require you to arrange them yourself. If you have to arrange them yourself, ask if the venue has any trusted providers. This can help you find vendors who are already familiar with the space, which will make your planning process easier. They may also offer some discounts.

Location - Check whether your guests will not have any issues reaching the venue. Consider the transportation links and available parking space. Make sure the venue is also easily accessible for guests with mobility issues.

Cost - Consider your budget and ensure that the venue hire fee and any additional services fit within your budget. Ask for a breakdown of the costs and ensure that there are no hidden fees or charges.

Can I get married on a beach in South East Melbourne?

Yes, you can get married on a beach in South East Melbourne. However, you will need a permit from the local council to do so. Rules regarding noise levels or the use of confetti or other decorations may also apply. Visit The City of Melbourne’s website to apply for a wedding permit and for more detailed information.