Waterside Venues for your Wedding Day

The sun is shining bright this morning, and as we drive over the Brisbane River we can see how the water sparkles in the sunlight. We thought this would be the perfect time to share some of our favourite waterside locations for weddings. We've rustled up river, sea, and mountain creek locations. Read on!

RIVERFRONT
Brisbane Marriott Hotel 

If riverside is your wedding location of choice, the Brisbane Marriott Hotel is a great option with its stunning event spaces and perfect waterside views. We love the many different rooms and spaces for your wedding party - including the Grand Ballroom that has room for up to 250 guests. Be sure to check this one out! 

Adina Apartment Hotels Brisbane 

The view from the Adina Apartment Hotels Brisbane is absolutely stunning. The riverfront is a glorious mirror of light in the day, and it reflects the beautiful city lights at night. QB recommends the Story View Room; it looks out onto the Story Bridge and the Brisbane River, and it has an outdoor terrace area that provides the perfect location for mingling and photos. 

Customs House 

We adore Customs House. It has heritage, a riverside location, and brilliant event planners. Couples can book both ceremony and reception at this venue which is sure to make your day a breeze. QB recommends the Riverside Terrace for most stunning river views.

Moda Events Portside 

For a romantic wedding day beside the river, Moda Events Portside in Brisbane will take your breath away. With floor-to-ceiling windows (and who doesn't love floor-to-ceiling windows?) you have absolutely zero chance of missing out on those stunning waterfront views. It's not just the view that makes Moda Events Portside in Brisbane a great reception venue, they also provide sensational service from start to finish. They can provide an unforgettable reception for 30 to 800 guests. Versatility is their middle name!

Watt Restaurant & Bar 

This venue is a little bit different and we love it! Watt Restaurant & Bar is located underneath the Brisbane Powerhouse, directly set against the Brisbane River. There's alfresco style dining, an absolutely stunning view, and room for up to 400 guests, QB definitely gives this one a thumbs up.

Riverlife 

With so many stunning riverside venues it will be a hard choice to pick just one, but Riverlife is set in a pretty spectacular spot on the Brisbane River in Kangaroo Point. QB loves Riverlife because of its incredible versatility, they can cater from 12 to 800 guests - how awesome is that?

Eves on the River 

How is your choosing coming along? Have we given you too many wonderful options... well that's just too bad because here's another! Eves on the River can provide you with an outdoor riverfront ceremony and reception in a glass enclosed verandah with those same glorious riverfront views. Sunsets are absolutely to die for. QB loves this venue because they have plenty of wedding packages that will suit all budgets.

Ebb Waterfront Dining & Cellar 

Here's a stunning option located on the Maroochydore River. Ebb Waterfront Dining and Cellar has two event-specific rooms that will make for a fantastic reception for fairly small parties, but you can also choose to hire the Ebb Restaurant with full privacy and exclusivity for larger groups. 

BY THE SEA

Stradbroke Island Beach Hotel & Spa Resort 

We all love the beach, and Strabroke Island has quite a lot of it! Stradbroke Island Beach Hotel & Spa Resort is a great option for a wedding venue because it offers stunning ocean views that you won't forget - just think about those sunsets!

CRISP CREEK

Cedar Creek Lodge 

We all know winter is creeping up — those brisk mornings require hot beverages now! But there's something about winter that makes us want to breathe in that crisp mountain air, and what better time to share that then on your wedding day. Cedar Creek Lodge is nestled creekside, so you will be able to hear the water rushing over rocks as you celebrate your big day. QB recommends the Rainforest Ampitheatre for your ceremony, and the Island Glade for your reception.

We hope you have found a venue that might just suit you on your big day!

QB x

Check out Queensland Brides at www.queenslandbrides.com.au, Facebook and Twitter. Get the latest issue here.

Wedding Essentials: Location and photography news

Check it out!

Happy Snaps

Wedding photography that is fresh and stylish.“Our main goal is to provide clean, modern photography that will capture your memories as they naturally occur,” says the team at Florido Weddings.“No fuss, no cliches.”Their photographers have backgrounds in fashion, advertising and commercial photography but they take a photojournalistic approach towards weddings so as to capture the real moments and personalities of the day. Florido Weddings offers different wedding coverages and post services such as retouching and albums – other than that they just let the images speak for themselves.
Visit floridoweddings.com or facebook.com/floridoweddings and contact them at info@floridoweddings.com or 0413 097 124.

Hinterland Beauty

Tamborine Mountain – for a perfect wedding in all seasons. Autumn leaves in reds and golds, the warmth of a fire in winter, cool breezes on summer days, a myriad of spring flowers – Tamborine Mountain has that special something to make your dream wedding come true.The perfect background for faux fur wraps, wisps of chiffon, strapless gowns, cocktail and black tie.
Visit The Wedding Gallery, a free wedding information centre: 128 Long Rd, Eagle Heights, 4271 Ph 07 5545 2398 tamborinemountainweddings.net

Film stars!

Luke Middlemiss is the owner and one of the team’s Filmmakers for Playback Films. We were recently voted for the second consecutive year in a row number one for the Australian Bridal Industry Academy (ABIA) prestigious Queensland Wedding film of the year in 2012.Your wedding day is all about you as a couple, and we pride ourselves on taking only a limited number of weddings per year to ensure total personal care.We are passionate about producing wedding films and together we will make your wedding day a Movie that you will never forget. For the Bride and Groom looking for total personal service and the cinematic experience of a lifetime. You have definitely come to the right studio. Our team considers your wedding film as an investment in the future, a lasting legacy that you can “Playback” for generations to come. 
playbackfilms.com.au

QB x
Check out Queensland Brides at www.queenslandbrides.com.au, Facebook and Twitter. Get the latest issue here.

Brisbane Polo Club Open Day! Come for a sticky beak...

Do you remember Angus and Leah's wedding that we featured a while ago on the blog? 

We absolutely loved it, and not just because of their winning style and quirky attitude. Angus and Leah chose to hold their reception at the Brisbane Polo Club, a boutique location that suits many couples to a T. Not sure if it's for you? Then this weekend is the perfect opportunity to check it out. 

Brisbane Polo Club is holding an open day on Sunday 28th April. It's free entry, but you absolutely must register via their website

For full details on this event check out the What's On page on the QB website.

QB x

Check out Queensland Brides at www.queenslandbrides.com.au, Facebook and Twitter. Get the latest issue here.

Wedding Essentials: Wedding fashion news

Here are two wedding fashion snippets we thought we'd share with you...

Couture Clearance

For brides-to-be, the Brides Desire Bridal Clearance Studio is well worth a visit. End of line and ex-floor stock designer gowns are heavily discounted for quick clearance. All gowns are below $1000. Gowns are sold off the rack, condition as is (no lay-by).The Clearance Studio accepts credit cards and also offers EFTPOS facilities. Open six days. Phone 07 3846 7077.

Sleek and Suave 

Elio Moda’s designs consist of luxurious, effortless and stylish tailored wear for men and women. Elio Moda’s collections are made from the highest quality European fabrics complemented by precision tailoring. Their new-look website has now launched.To view their new collection visit eliomoda.com.au

QB x
Check out Queensland Brides at www.queenslandbrides.com.au, Facebook and Twitter. Get the latest issue here.

Fancy Feet: Shoespiration!

It's time for some shoe-spiration! We all love a bit of bling on our tootsies, so we've found some shoes that really sparkle. 

Bride: Nicolette | Posh Photography

Andrea Thompson Photography 

Wedding of Kylie & Todd | Karen Buckle Photography 

Wedding of Erin & Adam | Yoori Rose Photography  

KCL Photography

Studio Impressions Photography 

Todd Hunter McGaw Photography

Wedding of Susan & Ben | Stewart Ross Photography 

Studio Impressions Photography

Grapeshot Studios  

Porfyri Photography

Wedding of Jen & Tim | Kelly Adams Photography 

QB x
Check out Queensland Brides at www.queenslandbrides.com.au, Facebook and Twitter. Get the latest issue here.

Beauty styles for the bride who can't decide

Have you reached that planning stage where you're starting to wonder what kind of make-up look you want for your big day? 

Here at QB, we thought we'd compile a selection to really help you decide... 

SUBTLE GLAMOUR 

Hair: Hare's Hair | Make-up: Abigael Johnston 0408761206

Expertly placed Swarovski crystals add a glamourous finishing touch. 

MAUVE MARVEL 

Image from the wedding of Trevor and Emily

Add a subtle hint of colour to your eyes and team with with a natural look for maximum eye poppage! 

VINTAGE STAR QUALITY 

Image: Laura Mercier

Smooth black liner and lush red lips make this look a stunner!

TAKE A HINT...

Photograph: George Favios | Gown and Accessories: Elizabeth de Varga Exclusive Fashions | Hair: Hare's Hair | Make-up: Abigael Johnston 0408761206

... from our current covergirl. Give the smoky look a shot!

ALL NATURAL BEAUTY 

Image from the wedding of Heidi and Stewart

This style has been seen a lot lately and we love it. Key words here are: simple, clean and natural — let your beauty shine!

PINK FLUSH 

Image: Flo & Percy

A healthy dose of blush will keep your cheeks nice and rosy on your big day.

ULTRA MODERN 

Rebecca Cobbing Couture | Photo: Jade Martin

For the bride with some serious couture, a truly daring look will surprise and delight.

QB x

Check out Queensland Brides at www.queenslandbrides.com.au, Facebook and Twitter. Get the latest issue here.

Top 20 Tips: A selection of our top tips to take you from ceremony to reception

The current issue of Queensland Brides is right on the money. There are great tips, suppliers, locations - it's PACKED with inspiration.

Here's one of our exciting features that is just one of many you can read if you pick up a copy!

The Top 20 (Got the mag? Look for it on page 239!)

1. Make Contact 

Anais and Paul | Ben Clark Photography

Ensure you (or preferably a trusted bridal party member) has a list of everyone's contacts in case there is a change of time or location.

2. Plan B 

Chloe and Jonathan | Studio Impressions Photography

Have a Plan B (or two). Preparing for bad weather, late guests or audio problems will help avoid last-minute stress.This is an area where your coordinator can really be worth their weight in gold!

3. Access & Seating 

Greer and James | Karen Buckle Photography

Consider seating style and numbers, but also how your guests will access their seats. Make sure there is a clear path to the ceremony site, assistance for older guests if required, and ample space between rows.

4. Timeline 

A timeline of the day's events is a great way to keep guests informed and things running on time. place on ceremony seating, hand out to guests on arrival or for the extra-organised, mail alongside your invitation.

5. Thoughtful Touches 

Porfyri Photography

It's the little, personal touches that will make your wedding truly memorable for guests. For outdoor ceremonies, consider handing out thongs, scarves, bottled water or paper fans to keep everyone comfortable. Personalised soaps or slippers are also a lovely option if your guests are over-nighting after your big day.

6. Moving to the Reception 

Separate ceremony and reception locations? Why not organise a fleet of maxi taxis or buses to transport guests? Not having to worry about directions, parking or traffic will take stress off family and friends and get them into a celebratory mood.

7. Work Your Location 

Sterling Studios

Make sure you have considered ever y area your guests will pass on their way to the reception. Empty corridors and sparse waiting rooms are atmosphere killers. Simply adding tea lights or scented candles, personal photos, or little floral arrangements will make a huge difference.

8. Flower Power 

Laura and Dean | Davel Photography

Consider taking some of your ceremony flowers to the reception venue. Recycling is great for the hip pocket and makes the most of floral arrangements which would otherwise only be used for a short period of time.

9. Cocktail Hour

Lauren and Nick

Cocktails are a fantastic, colourful option for your wedding reception.tie the hue and garnishes into your theme or customise your very own cocktail for a seriously memorable drink.

10. Smooth Sailing 

Ensure your ceremony flows seamlessly into your reception by providing refreshments or entertainment the moment guests begin arriving. If they need to wait for an extended period before entering the venue, ensure there are bathrooms and seating available. Nominate a trusted friend or family member to welcome and direct other guests.

11. Fun Times

Photo and Styling: The Wedding Collective

Keep the party mood alive by incorporating a fun element such as a photo booth, cigar room, palm reader or magician into your reception. great for tying into a theme and creating a lively atmosphere. 

12. Look After Your Little Ones 

Wedding of Anna and Gareth | Foster Photography

If you have young children at your reception, why not provide some colouring books or consider hiring a nanny or two for the evening to keep them amused? Happy children mean happy parents!

13. Make an Entrance 

For a grand arrival, organise an announcement to be made by your MC or DJ or turn up one of your favourite songs to signify you are in the building.

14. The Receiving Line
If the traditional receiving line isn't your thing,there are plenty of modern alternatives. Stroll around your reception venue once guests are seated to greet people a table at a time, or invite them couple by couple to have a photo booth snap taken with you.

15. Small & Special

Danielle and Rohan | Rankin Photography

If you’ve decided on a generous guest list your reception can be overwhelming. So if you’d like an intimate moment with nearest and dearest, set aside a small room at your venue where you can spend a few minutes with just the two of you. Invite the photographer along too for shots.

16. Personal Unity 

Moira and Kristian | Studio Impressions Photography

Choose a key colour, theme, motif or flower to feature throughout your reception. Incorporating family emblems, monograms or your favourite colour is an ideal way to personalise your event and reception venue.

17. The Low Down
Soaring centrepieces look amazing, but for a Subtler option for your tableS consider a series of low vases bursting With blooms or hang paper or floral pom poms overhead.this will encourage guests to socialise around the table and not feel ‘blocked in.’

18. Drinks stations 

Greer and James | Karen Buckle Photography

Take care of designated drivers and kids with a fun non-alcoholic drinks station. Include crazy straws, colourful cups or cute embellishments for some bright and silly options.

19. The After Party 

If you're kicking on into the night, especially if you've had an early dinner, consider providing light snacks or sweet treats later on.

20. The Last Goodbye 

Fiona and Troy | Studio Sixty Photography

There are plenty of ways to make an occasion of your exit. Sparklers are an increasingly popular and photogenic option, whilst bubbles, streamers, balloon releases or candles all create a send-off to be remembered.

QBx

Check out Queensland Brides at www.queenslandbrides.com.au, Facebook and Twitter. Get the latest issue here.

Wedding Hair-Wear: Some options to consider

Is your wedding 'do looking a little so-so? Why not consider adding a little bling or a little excitement to your glossy locks?

Feeling a bit vintage?Try a stunning beaded band like this one for that 1920s glam.

Image: Debbie Carlisle Bouquets

 A diamante feathered fascinator like this one is simple yet classy.

Image: Elizabeth de Varga

Add some bling like Leah did to show off your mussed up waves.

Image from the wedding of James and Leah

This simple hair piece is the perfect addition to a casual hairstyle. Teamed with a natural make-up look and stunning red lips, you'll be able to see the full effect of your bridal glow!

Image from the wedding of Linda and Jeremy

Take some inspiration from the races and go for a wild fascinator, to tame it down choose a neutral colour like white or beige to show off your classy 'do.

Image: Rebecca Cobbing Couture

An elegant hair style like this one deserves the best addition. This pearl and diamante accessory provides enough sparkle that all other jewellery needs only be minimal.

Image: Strictly Bridal Emporium

Thais helped designed these stunning pieces that both she and her bridesmaids wore on her wedding day. They have a distinctly Greek vibe about them that we love.

Image from the wedding of Glen and Thais

QB x

Check out Queensland Brides at www.queenslandbrides.com.au, Facebook and Twitter. Get the latest issue here.