Spotlight on Magical Magnetic Island

If you're looking for a sunny tropical wedding amidst some of the most breathtaking scenery Australia has on offer, then Magnetic Island is the destination for you. With around 320 days of sunshine per year, you're almost guaranteed to wed beneath a blue sky, the year-round balmy temperatures ideal for outdoor events.

Photo: MaryAnne Law - Magnetic Island Photography

North Queensland's Magnetic Island, a secluded oasis of soaring pines, rugged granite boulders and crystal clear waters, provides the perfect backdrop for romance.

Our wedding weather tip:

Enjoy a tropical winter by booking your Magnetic Island nuptials in June-July when weather is still a comfortable average of 25 ̊C and rain is rare.

Photo: MaryAnne Law Photography

Situated just 8 kilometres off Townsville, Magnetic Island is a relaxed, easily-accessible hideaway which attracts North Queensland locals as well as tourists.The island houses a variety of accommodation, ranging from budget backpackers to luxury penthouses, and offers plenty of transport options including car, motorbike and buggy rentals.

Photo: Tourism Queensland

Our wedding transport tip:

Catch the 'water cat' off Townsville for a speedy 20-minute ride to the island or hire your transport through either an island or Townsville business (many provide services which include Magnetic Island as an available location).

The range of reception options on Magnetic Island includes – open marquees, garden settings beneath twinkling fairy lights, and outdoor decks as well as restaurants and function rooms to suit every taste and budget. Various packages are also on offer, as well as options to combine your wedding and honeymoon.

Photo: MaryAnne Law - Magnetic Island Photography

Our wedding reception tip:

Take advantage of the breathtaking location by holding an evening reception outdoors – the balmy air and gentle sea breezes minus the hot sun make for an ideal setting.

Activities are varied for those who are staying on the island for an extended period, generally set outdoors to make the most of the perfect weather and warm water. Jet skiing, kayaking, four-wheel drive tours, sailing and snorkelling are just a few of the activities on offer, otherwise kick back by one of the hotel pools.

Photo: Tourism Queensland

Photo: MaryAnne Law Photography

Our wedding honeymoon tip:
Organise a romantic oceanside horse ride at dusk for the ultimate honeymoon memory.

QB x

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Wedding Theme Spotlight: Beach/Tropical Weddings

Beach weddings are perfect for fuss-free couples, nautical enthusiasts, beach babes and those looking for a ‘destination wedding’ feel, especially in the tropics. 

Wedding of Declan and Cassandra

Theme Ideas 

• Summer Days
• Beach Beauty
• Tropical Oasis
• Beach Bliss
• Casual Elegance
• Fun & Relaxed
• Island Escape
• Beach Chic

Wedding of Alana and Drew

Wedding of Alana and Drew

Advantages 

A romantic beach wedding offers the chance to get away from the hustle and bustle of city living and relax in a sunny place with your friends and family. The outdoor location is perfect for a laid-back day, with soft sands and blue skies making a glorious backdrop for your photos, plus your guests will have somewhere fun and scenic to spend their time between the ceremony and the reception. 

Relaxed, flowing dresses and opulent fishtail gowns both work well for a beach wedding – and you can ditch the heels for pretty sandals or even bare feet. Finally, a beach wedding provides an instant honeymoon option! 

Jessica and Jarrod | Adori Studios

Decor 

At a summer beach ceremony, ensure your guests (especially older ones) are taken care of with seating, shade and supplies like water bottles. Carry the beachy feel from the ceremony to the reception by decorating tables with glass jars filled with shells and vases of flowers anchored with sand. 

The natural surroundings call for a clean colour palette with white as base and pink or blue as an accent. Think white-washed chairs, white or cream flowers, and tea candles or lanterns. If you’re a dedicated water baby, think about hiring a boat for your arrival or enquire about booking a part of the pier for pre-reception drinks for your guests. 

Beautiful Beach Weddings

I Do Events Whitsundays

Double Check 

Unpredictable weather, like rain and strong winds, can be the trickiest aspect of organising a beach wedding so be sure to have a back-up plan. Think about nearby parks that offer shelter or check with your venue about their wet weather ceremony options. 

Ensure you have best contacts for all your guests to alert them to any last-minute venue changes. If you’re planning a sunset wedding, timing 

is everything so work closely with your celebrant and photographer to ensure you make the most of those precious minutes.  

Sterling Studios

Need to know 

Most beaches will require a permit so contact the local council to make sure you have all the documentation. You should also check to make sure there are no big events being held on the same day as your wedding – like a triathlon! And don’t forget that beaches are public places, so you might have a few spectators on the day. 

Porfyri Photography

Check list 

Access: Older guests in particular will appreciate an easy walk to your ceremony site. Sun care: If your ceremony is going to be in the full glare of the sun, parasols are a fashionable alternative to hair-destroying hats and pretty fans will help keep guests cool. 

Vivid Photography

Studio Six

Final touches 

A sand ceremony can add colour to the formalities of the day. Both the bride and groom and members of their families can pour vials of coloured sand from the beach into a slender glass vase to signify the joining of the two families. 

QB X

Psst! You can more helpful tidbits in the current issue of QB, which, if you don't have you can get here.

Check out Queensland Brides at www.queenslandbrides.com.au, Facebook and Twitter.