From the number of inquiries we receive its obvious that spring and autumn weddings are the most popular with couples. However, after experiencing a recent “wow” wedding at Eleven Eighty on a cold winters like day, I’m wondering if we have it all wrong. Put simply, the venue looked stunning and the winter styling created the most unbelievable atmosphere: From crackling outdoor fire pits to artfully placed velvet couches I can confidently say that a winter wedding at Eleven Eighty is a spectacle to behold. Not convinced? Here are my top 10 reasons to not rule out a winter wedding on the South Coast:
- The joy of no humidity. I talk from experience on this one. I was married 18 years ago on a 40-degree day. One guest passed out during the ceremony and the humidity was so bad that I was literally stuck in my dress. Not to mention our poor Scottish groomsmen wearing thick woolen kilts…it was a n uncomfortable experience all round. A winter wedding is much more pleasant for men wearing suits and the ladies in their finery.
- More availability and much shorter lead times. Wedding venues on the South Coast book out well in advance. Not wanting to wait over 12 months for your preferred venue or vendors? Instead of waiting for a peak season date, you will find that a lot of venues have more availability in the winter. We have recently taken bookings for winter weddings only 2 months away.
- The light is better for photos. Photographers love the flattering and less harsh light. They don’t have to deal with the issue of squinting. With twilight coming earlier if you have a venue with lots of moody lighting, festoons and tree lights (like at Eleven Eighty) you can capture some amazing shots.
- Don’t worry about the weather. We have you covered (literally)with our bespoke marquee which has been designed to fit our courtyard perfectly. With the clear roof paneling you do not lose out on feeling of an alfresco wedding but you are protected from the elements. For smaller sub 50 guest weddings you can hold your reception inside the Old Coolangatta School Hall which oozes character and ambiance. Think vintage chandeliers hanging from the rafters, heaters in place and cozy rugs. You can create an unforgettable experience.
- Think ahead to your anniversary. I speak again from experience on this one. Planning a winter wedding means that your anniversary will be at a quiet time of year. We were married the day before New Years Eve meaning that with parties organised for the next day, we are never in the mood to properly celebrate our anniversary. Unfortunately it seems to slip by unmarked each year.
- Planning an overseas honeymoon? The weather in Asia and Europe is often best during the Australian Winter.
- Your guests will thank you for it. The wedding fatigue won’t be real. Peak season can be hectic and you will find that your event will be something your guests really look forward to during a period where they have fewer events on rather than being just another thing on their to do list during busy times.
- Your wedding will look amazing. As noted before, think deep vibrant velvet lounges, your guests chatting around the fire pits, lots of candles flickering in the moody lighting.
- Cheaper accommodation for your guests. With destination weddings on the South Coast becoming extremely popular, the financial strain on those who are at an age where they have multiple weddings to attend each year is real, particularly in this current economic climate.
- Its something out of the ordinary. This fits so well with our vibe at Eleven Eighty. How do you distinguish your special day? The couples that choose our venue are searching for something different. They want to wow their guests with a stunning venue but they don’t want their big day to feel just like every other wedding they have been to. They want to stand out in the crowd. They want an intimate feel, and for their guests to have a unique experience……..welcome to Eleven Eighty…..The Venue with a Twist.
Have I persuaded you over to the winter side?
Presumed you had to wait over a year to secure a date for a South Coast Wedding Venue? Not so, if a winter wedding is something that you might now consider. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the team at Eleven Eighty………a winter wedding could be a matter of just a few weeks or months away!
