There’s nothing quite like exchanging your wedding vows with the stunning Port Phillip Bay as your backdrop. If you’re after a waterfront wedding venue with a view and an equally impressive focus on food then Harbour Room by food&desire will be sure to impress.
Located in the heart of St Kilda above the Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron, Harbour Room hosts the best of the beach with the best of vintage elegance. The dining room and rooftop will combine to give you sweeping panoramic views of the bay, enjoying exclusivity and privacy rarely found elsewhere in bustling St Kilda.
Vintage elegance with beach-side vibes
Founded more than 140 years ago, the Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron is one of the oldest yacht clubs in Victoria. The current clubhouse was opened in 1926 and is a stunning vintage landmark in St Kilda’s history.
In 1956 the club was involved in the Melbourne Olympics, becoming the executive headquarters for the sailing competitions. Victory ceremonies and medal presentations took place on the lawns surrounding the clubhouse.
A multi-million dollar investment prior to 2014 has led the club and squadron to what it is today. The Harbour Room itself is a bright and modern function space upstairs in the stunning vintage building. With American oak floorboards, an onyx marble bar, and a fireplace, it’s the perfect combination of elegance and modernity within the iconic original character of the building. There’s even a bridal room downstairs to make the most of those precious moments on your own.
The rooftop on the third level is also a major feature, offering panoramic sweeping views all the way from the CBD down the bay. Faux grass, festoon lighting and original building features will make the perfect blank canvas for stunning wedding photos against a Melbourne sunset.
The Harbour Room
Capacity: 180 seated and up to 400 cocktail-style
A reception inside the Harbour Room will give you memories you won’t soon forget. The room is furnished with neutral details, making it the perfect blank canvas to style your day. Classic, luxury, elegant and vintage weddings will all look fabulous inside this space.
The room itself is split into two function areas for you and your guests. By the bar, couches, ottomans, white coffee tables, high bars and outdoor furniture can be used to make this area a hub of conversation. The oak dance floor will also make the perfect location for new friendships to form.
This area also has access to a balcony and can be curtained off for a stunning indoor ceremony. It’s the perfect ceremony option if you’re getting married in winter, or just need a wet weather plan.
The room then opens into the main reception dining area which can be styled to your wedding taste. Abundant green hanging installations paired with white tables, chairs and linens will look fabulous for a meal in this room. Add a splash of metallic gold to give your decor even more elegance.
The room can be styled with individual tables or modern long rectangular tables to make the most of draping installations or high centrepieces. It really is the perfect playground for any wedding stylist.
The Rooftop
Capacity: 120 seated and up to 250 cocktail-style
If you’re after a reception under the stars then the rooftop at Harbour Room will be the perfect setting for you. Treat yourself and your guests to a summer night on the roof as the sun sets beyond the bay.
The rooftop is a wonderful spot for ceremonies and receptions alike. An outdoor ceremony will give you all the benefits of a waterfront wedding venue, high above any interruptions from the beach or street. Opt for the natural backdrop of the day or a lush greenery or floral arbour to add something special to your vows.
Your reception on the rooftop can also host up to 120 seated guests. This is the perfect setting for an elegant yet casual reception. Casual seating options paired with unique and delicious food options will make your wedding stand out in the memory of your guests for years to come. Once the sun has gone down, enjoy the warm glow of festoon lighting as city lights twinkle across the bay.
Check out the Harbour Room website today to find out how you can make your perfect waterfront wedding a reality.
Stunning waterfront photo opportunities
St Kilda’s setting and pier offer a unique opportunity for waterfront photos, without the hassle of worrying about walking in the sand in your brand new wedding shoes!
The pier can get you far from the shore for unique and stunning shots your photographer will thank you for. Closer to home, the yacht club also offers its own unique opportunities. Historic features such as the vintage building itself and an indoor wooden boat wheel will give you opportunities not found anywhere else in Melbourne.
Other fantastic photo opportunities unique to St Kilda include trams, the beautiful Catani Gardens, Acland Street and, of course, the famous Luna Park.
A focus on food and style
Harbour Room is run by renowned catering company food&desire, so you know the food is going to impress. food&desire have been planning spectacular events in Melbourne for the last 18 years. They pair their knowledge of running events with their expertise as a leader in events, food and wines to bring you something truly remarkable.
With a focus on seasonal and fresh produce, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to your wedding day food. As any Melburnian should be!
Delicious canapés, succulent main dishes and cocktails such as a Hot Chocolate Espresso Martini or Aperol Spritz are just the beginning. food&desire also specialises in informal dining, bringing people together with shared food. If you want the formality of a sit-down meal with a more relaxed feel, take a look at their sharing options to get your guests talking and laughing all night.
Contact Harbour Room by food&desire to see how they can create a unique menu for your big day.
Privacy and exclusiveness in the heart of St Kilda
Harbour Room is located in the heart of St Kilda. The building is set off The Esplanade where it meets the corner of Fitzroy Street, making it the perfect location for transport access.
Just 20 minutes from the CBD, St Kilda is a great location for guests from all areas of Melbourne. Trams 16 and 3A will help ferry guest down from Flinders St Station. Tram 96 is also perfect for guests coming in from Southern Cross.
For those making their own way in, varied paid parking options are available nearby. Ticketed parking is available on Pier Road and Jacka Boulevard. Guests can also opt for parking at the St Kilda Sea Baths, which is operated by Car Care. Prices range from $6 per hour to $16 for a 12-18 hour stay.
See how easy it is to get to Harbour Room when you book your free venue viewing and consultation here.
Inclusive packages for a day to remember
There are plenty of package options at Harbour Room to get the day you want within your budget.
Saturday wedding packages start from $150 per person for a five-hour reception. A Friday or Sunday wedding could be a great option if you don’t mind mixing things up a bit. This will cost you $140 per person, and every Sunday includes an Aperol Spritz on arrival.
Winter weddings in June, July and August will get you even more value for money, starting at $130 per person. Your guests will also be able to warm up with a hot chocolate Espresso Martini on arrival for Friday or Sunday weddings in winter.
Rooftop ceremonies at Harbour Room start from $2,000 and will add an additional hour to your wedding package. Setup of crisp white chairs, a white carpet and your signing table will also be included.
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