Best Wedding Venues Sydney for Hire

Looking for picturesque wedding venues in Sydney? The NSW capital has heaps of fabulous wedding locations waiting to be discovered. From lush botanic gardens and waterfront venues with panoramic views to blank canvas spaces and luxurious ballrooms, there’s something in Sydney to suit your vision.

Finding the perfect wedding venue can be a complicated process. VenueNow can help you make that all-important decision. Here’s our handy guide to help you get started.

Different wedding styles for your Sydney wedding

There are hundreds of standout wedding styles to choose from. We’ve found that these three are particularly suited to wedding venues in Sydney:

Beach - From Bondi Beach to Avalon, this magnificent city offers hundreds of waterfront venues for a beach wedding. Decorate with a wooden archway, chalkboard signs, lanterns and pampas grass. When the sun goes down, illuminate the venue with lanterns or candles in jars for that ethereal glow.

Check out these 10 Dreamy Waterfront Wedding Venues in Sydney.

Rustic - Perfect for the great outdoors but easy to recreate indoors, a rustic theme will suit most wedding ceremony venues in Sydney. A colour scheme of earth tones, leafy floral arrangements, wooden furniture and DIY elements set a romantic and natural feel.

Contemplating a rustic theme for your big day? These are 11 Rustic Wedding Ideas for a perfect day.

Look to your roots - Why not pay tribute to your cultural heritage by styling your wedding around it? Traditional wedding ceremonies don’t have to be stuffy or over-the-top affairs. Highlight elements from your and your partner’s culture and put your spin on things to ring in a new marriage.

Different Wedding Venue types in Sydney

Hotel

If you're looking for a wedding venue that can accommodate a traditional wedding ceremony while also offering top-notch amenities and services, consider a hotel venue in Sydney. Many hotels in the city have dedicated event spaces that are well-suited for hosting weddings.

Outdoor Venue

Outdoor venues offer a unique and picturesque setting for your special day. Sydney is blessed with a stunning natural landscape, making it an ideal location for outdoor weddings. From enchanting gardens to grand estates, there are plenty of options to choose from.

Garden Weddings - Imagine exchanging vows surrounded by vibrant blooms and lush greenery. Sydney is home to several beautifully manicured gardens that provide a romantic backdrop for your ceremony. Aside from the sweeping views of the landscaped gardens, many outdoor wedding venues in Sydney offer additional amenities such as gazebos, pergolas, and water features, adding to the charm and elegance of your special day. The Royal Botanic Garden and Centennial Parklands are just a few examples of stunning garden venues in Sydney.

Waterfront Weddings - With its stunning coastline and iconic Sydney Harbour, Sydney offers a multitude of waterfront venues for couples dreaming of a waterfront wedding. Whether you choose a beachside wedding venue or a venue overlooking the Sydney Harbour, you'll have a breathtaking backdrop for your special day. Darling Island Wharf, Pier One Sydney Harbour, and Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel are some popular waterfront wedding venues that offer stunning waterfront views.

Vineyard Weddings - For wine enthusiasts and nature lovers, a vineyard wedding in the scenic outskirts of Sydney is a perfect choice. The rolling vineyards, rustic charm, and breathtaking views create a magical atmosphere for your celebration. There are several vineyards around Sydney that offer the perfect setting for a vineyard wedding.

Restaurants

Restaurants are the ideal setting for cocktail weddings, as they provide an intimate and cozy atmosphere for your special day. Sydney boasts a wide range of exceptional restaurants that are perfect for hosting wedding receptions. These exclusive hire venues often have experienced event planners on-site who can take care of the details, allowing you to relax and enjoy your celebration. The culinary experiences at these restaurants are also top-notch, ensuring that you and your guests are treated to a memorable dining experience.

Blank Canvas Venues

If you're looking for a versatile space for your wedding ceremony and cocktail reception, then blank canvas venues may be the perfect choice for you. A blank canvas venue is a space that can be transformed to fit your vision and style. These venues usually have minimal decor and furnishings, allowing you to create a personalised and unique atmosphere for your wedding. Add in the little details that make your special day even more special. There is usually enough space to add elements like a dance floor, custom lighting, and seating arrangements that suit your preferences.

Rooftop Venues

For couples who want to take their wedding celebrations to new heights, rooftop venues in Sydney offer a breathtaking backdrop and a unique experience. Imagine exchanging your vows with panoramic views of the city skyline or dancing the night away under the stars. Rooftop venues provide a modern and stylish setting for weddings and are perfect for couples who want to create a memorable experience for their guests.

Historic Venues

Sydney is known for its rich history and there are several historic venues that offer a touch of old-world charm. From stately mansions to heritage-listed buildings, these venues provide a unique backdrop for your wedding. Imagine saying your vows in a grand ballroom or exchanging rings in a beautifully landscaped garden with historical architecture as your backdrop.

The Best wedding venues Sydney has to offer

These one-of-a-kind wedding venues in Sydney will turn your big day into an event your guests will be talking about for years to come. Whether you're looking for boutique wedding venues or luxe wedding venues, we've got it all. Here are some of our favourite wedding venue hires:

L'Aqua

Cockle Bay Wharf, Darling Park, Sydney NSW

The L'Aqua is one of Sydney's most luxurious and intimate function and wedding venues, located on the rooftop of Cockle Bay Wharf in Darling Harbour. This venue offers a picturesque view over Cockle Bay with uninterrupted views of downtown Sydney - which means that guests will have an amazing time simply gazing at all the city has to offer!

Sergeants' Mess

Chowder Bay, Mosman NSW

The Sergeants Mess is a beautiful, restored heritage building sitting next to Camp Cove in Watson's Bay. This perfect setting for weddings and events overlooking Chowder Bay provides the stunning backdrop of Sydney's most gorgeous natural harbour across Rose Bay on one side while providing spectacular views all around this magnificent city from its scenic vantage point.

Overlooking chowder bay with breathtaking views up into the heart of Sydney's expansive harbour that stretches out before you as far as your eyes can see; nestled at an unbeatable location right near Camp Cove between Rose Bay and Watson's Bay- close enough to both but also hidden away just enough so not too many people know about it!

ivy

George St, Sydney NSW

The ivy Ballroom is ready to impress any wedding guest with its grand staircase, candlelit backdrop and stunning garden terrace. With up to 370 guests it's perfect for the bashful bride who dreams of a memorable entrance all throughout the night as she mingles at her bridal table surrounded by family and friends amidst elegantly simple surroundings or take advantage of our incredible stylists, florists and production support that will create your dream wedding on this beautiful space.

Dockside

Cockle Bay Wharf, Sydney NSW

Dockside is a stunning wedding venue, with breathtaking views of Darling Harbour. We're only moments away from the Sydney CBD but offer a diverse range of event spaces to suit all functions - whether you have 10 or 1200 people coming!

Dockside offers an outstanding location for your next special occasion right by Cockle Bay Wharf in Sydney's vibrant waterfront district. With sparkling water views stretching over Darling Harbour and close proximity to Central Station, Docksides provides function spaces that are sure to impress at every turn - be it weddings receptions galas cocktail parties conferences formals or other celebrations.

Watersedge

Circular Quay W, Sydney NSW

Watersedge (formerly Campbell's Stores) is a historic wedding venue in The Rocks, boasting unrivalled views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. This industrial-chic venue is an ideal place to host intimate or grand weddings for 5000 guests with world-class fare and exceptional service that can take your celebration from day to night.

Waterview In Bicentennial Park

Bicentennial Drive, Sydney Olympic Park NSW

Waterview in Bicentennial Park is a picturesque venue at Sydney's Olympic Park, where guests can enjoy the scenic backdrop of parkland and lakes. With enough space for up to 1500 people, all sorts of events are possible with Waterview such as conferences, business parties or cocktail gatherings. The venue also has private spaces that are perfect for weddings - from bridal showers and ceremonies to receptions! Depending on your event needs you may be able to customise decorations and catering options easily depending on what best suits the style you're looking for!

Centennial Homestead

Grand Drive, Centennial Park

Situated in the heart of Centennial Park in East Sydney, Centennial Homestead is a charming wedding venue situated in the heart of Centennial Park in East Sydney. This picturesque location offers couples a tranquil and romantic setting for their special day. With its lush green lawns, beautiful gardens, and elegant event spaces, Centennial Homestead is sure to create a memorable backdrop for your wedding.

12 Micron

Barangaroo Avenue, Barangaroo NSW

12-Micron is a stunning events and functions space that can accommodate any event, wedding or function you could hope for. With light-filled spaces, stylish finishes and amazing water views this venue has all the style your heart desires with half of Sydney's best restaurants waiting to serve up delectable food on location.

Greenwood Hotel

Blue Street, North Sydney NSW

The Greenwood Hotel is an iconic setting for your next big event. Whether you're celebrating a milestone, planning a Christmas party, or throwing a wedding reception we have the perfect package to fit all tastes and budgets with flexible spaces that can accommodate parties of up to 1,400 guests. Our events team will ensure celebrations go off without a hitch so book now!

Botanic House

Mrs Macquaries Road, Sydney NSW

A hidden gem amongst the stunning foliage of Sydney's Royal Botanic Garden, Botanic House is minutes away from the CBD and offers a natural escape in city life. The new venue has been designed to take full advantage of its unique location with breathtaking garden surroundings; it features an expansive open-plan design streaming with natural light and a picturesque outdoor terrace offering views that will make your heart soar! Whether for events such as weddings or gatherings like corporate meetings, this space knows how to do things right.

Gunners Barracks

Suakin Drive, Georges Heights NSW

If historic charm and five-star dining fare are high on your list of venue must-haves, this charming waterfront setting is it. Offering three atmospheric outdoor ceremony locations to choose from, flexible wedding packages and jaw-dropping views of Sydney Harbour, this beautiful wedding venue will exceed all your expectations. Gunner’s Barracks is a historic wedding venue located on the beautiful waterfront of Sydney Harbour. This venue is perfect for couples who appreciate the combination of historic charm and exquisite dining options. The captivating beauty of Gunner's Barracks will create a truly unforgettable backdrop for your special day.

Terrace on the Domain

Art Gallery Rd, Sydney NSW

Whether you're looking to host an intimate gathering or planning a large and lavish party, Terrace on the Domain has the capacity for all styles of weddings and events. Located minutes from Sydney's CBD with views of rolling green lawns that are surrounded by iconic cityscapes, this leafy park oasis is just what your guests need to escape their busy lives. With glass windows bathing in natural light as well as contemporary design nestled seamlessly into lush garden surroundings; it offers everything our modern couples desire at one location!

The Tea Room QVB

George St, Sydney NSW

The stunning Tea Room QVB is the crown jewel of Sydney's historic Queen Victoria Building. With an elegant European ambience and features, this venue has enough space to accommodate any event you have planned that can be celebrated in style with friends or family. Located within the iconic building itself, The Tea Room QVB sets a scene for your special occasion whether it's planning your dream wedding or indulging in high tea at one of their luxurious tables!

Orso Bayside Reception

The Spit, Mosman NSW

Orso is the perfect venue for a Sydney wedding. Located on Middle Harbour, just off of Mosman's Spit Bridge and in close proximity to the open water with beautiful views spanning sailing boats, pleasure craft, and cruisers alike. The expansive clear floor-to-ceiling windows provide natural light that can accommodate up to 250 guests at once, making it an excellent option for large or small weddings! Orso has its own beach where pelicans are often perched outside waiting patiently which makes them great photo opportunities during your event as well. 

Kittyhawk

Phillip Ln, Sydney NSW

Kittyhawk is a high-volume cocktail bar with an exquisite French restaurant menu. The Conservatory is the sun-filled room at the front of Kittyhawk's venue - easily customised for seated or cocktail affairs. It's semi-private and conveniently located right next to its spacious, well-stocked bar so you can quickly replenish your drink while basking in some serious French window views (which are also open if you want a nice natural breeze). This space works wonderfully for weddings, and mingling events such as birthdays and engagements but it has been known to host networking functions like Christmas parties too!

Top suburbs to book a Sydney wedding venue

With so many spectacular natural and man-made landscapes to serve as a backdrop for your nuptials, you won’t run out of options for Sydney wedding venues. Start your search for wedding spaces in these neighbourhoods:

Sydney Harbour

Sydney Harbour is one of the most beautiful waterfronts on Earth and thus sought after by those planning to get hitched. Luckily, it also has some of the best outdoor and indoor spaces offering scenic views for your wedding photos.

Darling Harbour

If you want to get married at a waterfront wedding venue in Sydney, Darling Harbour is the place for you. With its prime location and stunning views of the iconic Opera House, this one-of-a-kind venue will be sure to make your wedding day unforgettable. Plus, it’s just minutes away from some of Sydney’s finest restaurants if you like to go all out for your big day. You could also have views of Luna Park and the Sydney Harbour Bridge, adding to the picturesque backdrop for your wedding festivities.

Northern Beaches

Northern Beaches is another popular choice for couples looking for a picturesque waterfront wedding venue in Sydney. This region boasts stunning beaches and coastal landscapes that provide a romantic backdrop for your special day. Whether you're planning intimate celebrations or lavish affairs, there are a variety of wedding venues in the Northern Beaches area that cater to different needs and preferences.

Surry Hills

Surry Hills is a trendy and vibrant suburb in Sydney that offers a unique and eclectic atmosphere for weddings. This inner-city location has become increasingly popular for couples looking to add a modern and urban touch to their special day. It is the perfect choice for those seeking a wedding venue that exudes creativity and style.

Pyrmont

Sydney is a city with many suburbs, but few are as interesting and picturesque as Pyrmont. It’s not hard to see why so many couples choose it for their wedding venue. Whether you want an intimate backyard ceremony or something more formal in front of iconic landmarks like the Opera House, this one-of-a-kind suburb has a setting for every type of couple.

Sydney CBD

Sydney CBD is home to some of Sydney's coolest bars that offer unique experiences and environments perfect for any occasion! From rooftop bars overlooking the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge to quaint wine bars tucked away down laneways, these wedding venues provide an unforgettable experience whether you're celebrating your hen's night or after-work drinks with friends. Sydney CBD is the bustling heart of the city, and it offers a plethora of unique and stylish wedding venues. Whether you're looking for an intimate cocktail bar or a spacious rooftop setting in the city centre, you'll find the perfect spot to celebrate your special day.

Sydney Royal Botanic Gardens

The Royal Botanic Gardens in Sydney is a great spot for your wedding. It is one of the most prestigious botanic gardens in the world and it contains all the plants from around Australia. The Royal Botanic Gardens was founded in 1816 and it has a lot of beautiful walking paths, lakes, and waterfalls. With lush greenery and vibrant flora, this venue provides a picturesque backdrop for your grand or intimate wedding day.

The Rocks

There are many incredible wedding venues in the Rocks Sydney overlooking Sydney Harbour Bridge. The Rocks is a historic part of Sydney that was once the heart and soul of the city. It has many beautiful historical buildings, cobbled streets, delightful restaurants and cafes to explore before or after your ceremony.

Bondi Beach

Bondi Beach is a suburb of Sydney in Australia. It is about 8 kilometres to the east of the Sydney central business district and is home to a sandy beach that is approximately three kilometres long. On average, this beach attracts over two million visitors during the summer holiday season and 550,000 during winter.

Hills District

The Hills District is dotted with hidden gems that are a little more wallet-friendly than wedding reception venues in other Sydney neighbourhoods. We highly recommend this area for couples searching for a rustic wedding venue or a garden venue.

Western Sydney

With its hip neighbourhoods, beautiful botanical gardens and proximity to the Blue Mountains, you have a plethora of choices for wedding venues in Western Sydney. This culturally diverse and historically rich area is teeming with dreamy wedding spaces that cater to every budget.

Theme wedding ideas in Sydney

Your wedding theme will dictate every element of your big day — from the wedding venue to flowers to invitations. Here are some of our top picks for Sydney wedding themes:

Vintage - Start by choosing a decade to channel and go from there. Want to recreate the glamorous ‘20s? Subtle vintage accessories, white and gold elements, a beaded flapper dress, feathers and Art Deco graphics are must-haves.

Written in the Stars - For a modern take on the popular celestial wedding theme, use a blue-and-silver colour palette and galaxy-inspired elements. Glittering lights, a dress with star details and crescent moon motifs will leave your guests starry-eyed. 

Nautical - A nautical theme perfectly complements the magnificent waterfront wedding venues in Sydney. Create a seaside vibe with shells, anchors, a blue-and-white colour scheme and sailing motifs. Choose locations like the Whale Beach, Palm Beach, Shelly Beach, Walsh Bay, Watsons Bay, or Balmoral Beach.

How to plan an affordable wedding

Last but not least, here are some surefire tips for planning a wedding whilst staying within budget:

Prune your guest list

This is the first thing you need to do and the easiest way to keep your costs down. Trimming your guest list will allow you to consider smaller (and more affordable) Sydney wedding venues and reduce the cost of food, invitations, favours, and more. An intimate setting provides a cozy and personal atmosphere, allowing you to spend quality time with your closest friends and family.

Plan ahead

The earlier you start, the more time you’ll have to research vendors and to find sales and discounts. It will also give you time to learn how to DIY your decorations or invitations. 

Wedding packages

When planning an affordable wedding, it is important to inquire about bespoke wedding packages and wedding reception packages offered by various venues in Sydney. Many wedding venues understand the importance of budget-conscious couples and offer customised packages that cater to their specific needs and requirements.

Hire fewer vendors

Look for a dedicated team who can offer more than one wedding service. Perhaps the baker who makes the wedding cake also makes edible wedding favours. Or maybe the DJ can also host the reception. When you’re able to get more from each vendor, you save on multiple delivery fees and other costs involved in hiring separate vendors for each wedding element. Your dedicated events team can help coordinate and manage the different aspects of your wedding, making the planning process smoother and more cost-effective.

Questions to ask your wedding photographer

Before you hire a photographer for your Sydney wedding, make sure you’ve asked these questions:

What’s included in the package? Does the cost cover wedding day photos only or the engagement shoot as well? Does it include proofs, albums and film processing fees? Make sure you’re clear on what is included in each photographer’s package as this will make comparing wedding photography fees easier.

Have you shot at our venue or similar Sydney wedding venues before? Your wedding photographer should be prepared for any lighting and location-specific issues. Ask if the photographer and their dedicated team will do a pre-wedding scout to look for interesting spots or check for light conditions.

How will you work with the wedding videographer? Your photographer and your videographer will have to coordinate closely. At the very least, they’ll have to stay out of each other’s shots during the wedding. Make sure that they are able to have a planning meeting in advance so that things run smoothly on the big day.

How to make every single moment memorable

Whilst your nuptials should first and foremost be about you and your spouse-to-be, you also want to throw a seriously epic party for your family and friends. Here are a few tips to make sure your guests have an unforgettable experience.

Be smart about seating - Make sure that each guest is seated with people of similar interests or experiences. Be especially strategic about seating singles. Who guests are seated with will make or break their experience of your big day.

Set up a charging station - This is a great way to show your wedding guests some TLC. It also ensures that they’ll have enough battery life to keep taking photos of your wedding reception until the end of the festivities.

Skip traditions - There’s no rule that says you have to do the garter toss or the matching bridesmaids' dresses. If you don’t feel like the following custom, that’s perfectly fine. It’s your wedding, after all. Make your wedding extra memorable for everyone present by starting your own traditions.

Book your Sydney wedding venues today!

We hope this guide has helped you in your search for the perfect Sydney wedding venues. If you’re looking for more inspiration, feel free to browse our directory of wedding venues around Australia.

Whether you're looking for modern wedding venues, venues for larger weddings or beachfront wedding venue hires, VenueNow offers a wide range of affordable wedding venues in Sydney to help you celebrate your special day. With so many stunning locations to choose from, we’re sure you’ll find the perfect venue for your wedding

So what are you waiting for? Leave a lasting impression on your wedding party. Book your dream wedding venue in Sydney today!