From heritage to high-energy: A new era of celebration at The Stables at Sages Cottage Farm

For many years, farm venues were synonymous with a quiet or rustic vibe. However, our 2026 report shows a distinct shift in what couples value most. Today, 26% of couples prioritise a “rocking reception” above all else, ranking it as the most important element of their day.

This new era of weddings demands a venue that can balance classic and traditional sophistication, now the leading wedding style at 18%, with the infrastructure to host a high-impact party. The Stables at Sages Cottage Farm is the rare property that bridges this gap.

The prestige of the 1850s without the rustic clutter

As the industry moves away from the rustic dominance of the last decade, the appeal of Sages Cottage Farm lies in its authentic heritage. The original 1850s cottage was crafted from vertical timber slabs cut directly from this land. It offers a sense of permanence and old-world prestige that modern function centres cannot replicate.

Instead of the hay bales of the past, this heritage backdrop allows for the modern, minimalist, and romantic styling that 33% of today’s couples are choosing. It is a nature-led estate that feels like a private family legacy, perfectly suiting the 47% of couples who now choose their wedding date based on a specific seasonal vibe rather than simple availability.

Engineered for the rocking reception

While the ceremony might take place under the quiet Avenue of Pines, the Stables building itself is designed for the high-energy party that 2026 couples demand. With venues remaining the single biggest investment, accounting for 46% of the total wedding budget, there is no room for operational errors.

Managed by Melbourne Event Group, the reception experience here is defined by:

• Professionalism over DIY stress: Finding reliable suppliers is a top stressor for 15% of couples. The Stables offers a seamless transition from the heritage exterior to a polished, restaurant-quality indoor feast.
• Social dining experiences: While traditional meals remain a staple, there is a significant move toward shared feasting (28%) and casual formats. The long timber tables in the Stables are built for this communal dining style.
• The sound of the celebration: Music is a critical guest experience, and with 65% of couples engaging an MC, the Stables is acoustically and spatially designed to keep the dance floor full while maintaining the warmth of a heritage space.

A sanctuary for the guest experience

With guest lists softening to an average of 85 people, the focus has shifted from the more the merrier to the quality of the experience. Guests at Sages Cottage Farm are not just attendees; they are explorers. Between the ceremony and the reception, they can wander the 38-acre estate, providing a sense of freedom and movement that keeps the energy high throughout the day.

This variety is also a gift for photography. With couples spending an average of $3,657 on photography , they increasingly value natural, candid imagery that captures the atmosphere. The contrast between the rugged wetlands and the refined interior of the Stables provides a diverse narrative for the wedding gallery without the couple ever needing to leave the property.

The Stables at Sages Cottage Farm is for the couple who wants to make history, then celebrate it. It offers the dignity of a heritage estate with the modern infrastructure required to throw a high-energy celebration. In 2026, when the reception is the main event, this Baxter sanctuary is the ultimate stage.

Plan your high-energy heritage celebration now.

Sages Cottage Farm is ready to help you bring your 2026 wedding vision to life

Enquire now