If there is something we do well in Australia it’s a vintage style wedding. There are so many classic buildings across the country which have been lovingly restored to their former glory; you have your pick in every city.
In Perth, the city was founded in 1839 and free settlers started to arrive and enjoy life on the West Coast. The first architecturally complex buildings were constructed between 1850 and 1870 however when the colony became a convict settlement and had a more advanced labour force. The oldest buildings in the city were Gothic in style, as was in fashion in England and across Europe at that time.
There is a range of architectural styles to choose from, and with a couple of things in common; they have all been refurbished perfectly to represent first-class luxury, and they all have all of the modern conveniences that we couldn’t really be without.
If you want to take a step back in time on your wedding day and celebrate like the aristocracy from another era, check out these incredible venues below.
Ten Vintage Reception Venues in Western Australia:
Caversham House
Built in the early 1880s, this expansive estate is perched on the banks of the Swan River, and surrounded by immaculate gardens, hand-carved statues and wrought iron fencing and gates. Have photos taken in front of the grand four-storey waterfall, or on the golden claystone terraces or steps. With modern day restorations inside, Caversham House offers the best of both worlds, and it is easy to see why this is one of Perth’s most famous reception venues.
Esplanade Hotel
The charm and elegance of this old girl from Fremantle are second to none. Managed by Rydges and providing all the quality service, accommodation, and hospitality for which that company is known, you will find everything you need here in one spot. They have a number of reception areas to select from, including space to suit a variety of wedding sizes and budgets. Situated within historical Fremantle and offering many gorgeous photo backdrops to make your wedding album just divine, this lovely hotel has enough accommodation for you and all of your guests.
The Old Brewery
Embrace riverside romance for an unforgettable wedding day at the Old Brewery. Another Swan River venue with breathtaking views over the water and of the city skyline, and renowned for its wonderful catering, this place does so much more than just serve beer. Whether you’re dreaming of a formal dinner or canapes and cocktails on the terrace, the Old Brewery has something to suit every bride and groom.
Chapel Farm
While not quite as old as some of the other venues on this list, this converted Victorian style homestead will bring every rustic or vintage themed wedding to vibrant life. This versatile venue boasts everything for your perfect wedding, including accommodation, beautiful fields, a stunning lake and waterfall, tranquil gardens, a tapas bar and a relaxed beer courtyard. Their range of menus is complemented by an exhaustive range of premium local and international beer and wines.
Indiana Cottesloe Beach
On one of Australia’s most famous beaches, you can combine a boho coastal wedding with vintage luxury. Another of WA’s gorgeous old golden claystone wonders, your wedding photos will be beyond compare. The views over the sparkling Indian Ocean and magical Rottnest Island will be the perfect outlook while you sip champagne on the terrace. Finished in grand old style, the Indiana’s décor features include stained glass windows and rustic timber floors.
Belvoir Venue Homestead
Perched at the base of the Darling Ranges, this traditional Australian Federation design homestead has been opulently restored. Boasting high ceilings, brass chandeliers, jarrah staircases and full-length French windows, you will look out onto some of the most beautiful views that Perth has to offer. At the end of a majestic tree-lined pine driveway, and in lush green gardens, your photographer will be delighted with the many settings for your wedding album.
Millbrook Winery
This tranquil winery sits on the river in the historical township of Jarrahdale, where the entire town takes you back to a bygone era. The boutique winery hosts an unforgettable wedding celebration, with fresh seasonal food prepared with a paddock to plate philosophy and matched by award-winning wines. With a welcoming and flexible events staff, this is the ideal destination for your vintage WA wedding.
Perth City Farm
This non-profit organisation-run venue is uniquely historic and urban at the same time. The Farm offers two stunning spaces, including a refurbished barn or industrial warehouse conversion both with indoor and outdoor areas for your guests. The white-washed walls, towering ceilings, and exposed beams make the perfect blank canvas for your individual wedding day. Bring in your own catering and decorations for the DIY venue of your dreams.
Faversham House
In York, this magnificent old building makes a lovely vintage venue for a very special country house wedding. This place has some truly unique features, including an amphitheatre for your ceremony complete with koi pond and majestic jacarandas. Your bridal party can stay and have your every wish fulfilled, from the massage therapy room to outdoor mini soccer and a cellar room with poker tables and a pool table. You will want to move in permanently!
Perth Town Hall
For a rare chance to celebrate with family and friends in historic splendour, come to this Victorian Gothic mansion. This is one of Perth’s best kept (and oldest) secrets, with architectural and design features including stained glass windows, a 15-metre high cathedral ceiling and a Juliet balcony overlooking heritage jarrah floors. The spires and original clock-tower are just like something out of a fairy-tale. For vintage charm and urban glamour, consider this lovely old lady in the middle of Perth.
For a historic wedding celebration in a historic venue, Perth certainly is the place where the old world meets the new. Check out one of these gorgeous girls for your wedding day, her architectural grandeur will nearly be as breathtaking as the bride herself (but not quite!).