Find Your Dream Rustic Wedding Venue: Top Mornington Peninsula Locations

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Sometimes you want glitz and glamour, and sometimes you just want to get back to basics. Rustic weddings fall firmly under the latter. For those of you who want a wedding that’s down-to-earth, organic and intimate, you’ll need to find top-tier venues for rustic weddings on the Mornington Peninsula.

That means a location that should feel natural, intimate and homely with a solid option for customisation. Some venues may sway towards sophistication and others towards a back-to-basic bohemian vibe. Either way, the core components should remain the same to ensure you get as much out of your wedding day as possible.

Here is a list of 6 rustic wedding venues on the Mornington Peninsula that I believe fit those criteria the best, and should have a firm spot on your list for consideration.

1. Dromana Estate Weddings & Events

Dromana Estate Weddings & Events: A Rustic Canvas for Your Mornington Peninsula Wedding

Vineyard Elegance Meets Rustic Charm:

Dromana Estate Weddings & Events offers a unique wedding experience that blends breathtaking natural beauty with rustic charm. Nestled amidst rolling green pastures and vineyards, this historic estate, complete with a working winery dating back to 1982, provides a stunning backdrop for your special day.

A Blank Canvas Awaits:

Dromana Estate is a haven for couples seeking a wedding venue they can truly personalise. Imagine transforming exposed beams, concrete floors, and fairy lights into a reflection of your unique love story.  The venue's versatility allows for a variety of ceremony and reception options, both indoors and outdoors.

Celebrate Under the Sky:

Exchange vows amongst the picturesque vineyards or rolling hills, creating an unforgettable open-air ceremony. Dromana Estate boasts over 140 acres of stunning scenery, offering endless possibilities for a truly breathtaking start to your celebration.

Unique Ceremony Locations:

• The Stables Deck: This elevated platform provides a unique backdrop with natural wood and light accents, perfect for a creative and intimate ceremony.
• Cypress Trees: Bask in the beauty of towering cypress trees and a sprawling lawn with uninterrupted vineyard views – ideal for capturing those magical golden hour photos.

Embrace Rustic Refinement:

Indulge in the rustic charm of The Stables, featuring locally-milled timber beams and twinkling lights. This versatile space can accommodate up to 150 guests for a cocktail-style reception or 70 seated guests for a more intimate gathering.

Unveiling the Museum:

For a grand celebration, The Museum awaits. This expansive event space boasts a dramatic entrance with large black barn doors, reclaimed wood paneling, and a mesmerizing wall adorned with wine barrels.  Accommodating up to 400 guests cocktail-style or 260 seated, The Museum offers a touch of moody sophistication to your celebration.

Beyond the Walls:

Dromana Estate welcomes outdoor celebrations. Imagine a marquee or tipi nestled amidst the vineyards, creating a truly unique and unforgettable experience for you and your guests.

A Culinary Journey:

Dromana Estate is passionate about showcasing premium food and wine. Partner with their team to create a customized menu featuring local produce and, of course, their acclaimed Dromana Estate and Mornington Estate wines.

A Seamless Celebration:

The dedicated Dromana Estate team offers their expertise and support throughout the planning process. From ceremony set-up to reception coordination, they ensure a flawless and stress-free experience, allowing you to focus on creating lasting memories.

Embrace the Romance:

Dromana Estate isn't just a venue; it's a blank canvas waiting to be transformed into your dream wedding. With its breathtaking scenery, versatile spaces, and commitment to personalized service, Dromana Estate promises a wedding day that reflects your unique love story.

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2. Tanglewood Estate Wedding Venue

Tanglewood Estate: Secluded Sophistication for Your Mornington Peninsula Wedding

Nestled amidst ancient eucalyptus trees and overlooking the sparkling waters of Port Phillip Bay, Tanglewood Estate offers a secluded haven for couples seeking a wedding steeped in both rustic charm and sophisticated elegance.

A Landmark Location:

This 100-acre estate boasts a unique blend of historic and contemporary elements. The centre piece is the 110-year-old chapel, lovingly restored with exposed brick and light-drenched windows, creating a picture-perfect backdrop for your ceremony. Whether you're dreaming of a grand celebration or an intimate gathering, Tanglewood Estate offers a variety of ceremony and reception options to suit your vision.

It's one of the most Unforgettable Wedding Venues on The Mornington Peninsula:

• The Winery: Exchange vows amidst the beauty of the estate's working winery, followed by a reception in the state-of-the-art function space featuring an outdoor courtyard with breathtaking lake and bay views. (Capacity: 100-130 guests)
• The Barn: This rustic-chic barn, built with recycled materials, exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere. Large sliding doors open to the vineyard, creating a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor spaces. Ideal for larger receptions, it can accommodate up to 200 guests.
• The Chapel: Steeped in history, the century-old chapel provides a charming and intimate setting for smaller ceremonies with seating for approximately 100 guests.
• The Studio: This versatile space can be transformed into a charming backdrop for cocktail receptions of up to 80 guests or a dedicated "Men's Den" for pre-wedding preparations.
• The Gardens:  Surrounded by ancient trees and boasting stunning sea views, the picturesque gardens offer a plethora of breathtaking locations for outdoor ceremonies and captivating wedding photography.

Seclusion with Unwavering Support:

One of Tanglewood Estate's greatest strengths is its commitment to exclusivity. By limiting bookings to one wedding per day, you can relish in complete privacy and have the entire property at your disposal (excluding the chosen ceremony and reception venue). A dedicated event coordinator will be by your side throughout the planning process, ensuring every detail is meticulously cared for, allowing you to relax and truly enjoy your wedding day.

A Place to Create Lasting Memories:

Whether you envision a rustic-chic celebration or a touch of modern elegance, Tanglewood Estate offers the perfect canvas.  From customisable beverage packages to optional add-ons like a magnificent champagne tower, you can create a wedding experience as unique as your love story. Don't forget to explore their on-site accommodation options, perfect for the bride and groom or additional guests.

Accomodation

Looking for a stunning space to stay after your wedding or a huge house to accomodate all your guests, check out my favourite accomodation options near Tanglewood Estate.

If you're seeking a secluded haven with breathtaking scenery and unwavering support, Tanglewood Estate promises a wedding day that will be cherished forever.

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3. Barn & Co

With a beautiful garden, a canopy of trees and masses of natural wood throughout, Barn & Co wedding venue makes for an incredible backdrop to your fairytale rustic wedding. Hold the ceremony outside on the lawn, and say your vows as you watch the sun slip down between the trees during golden hour. As the temperature drops, retreat into the cosy warmth of the barn. 

Wooden walls, ceiling, tables and chairs, as well as several barrels stacked up at the end make for a truly unique and inviting atmosphere with Barn & Co weddings. Of course, no rustic wedding would be complete without a menu full of local and seasonal produce, and Barn & Co do this fantastically.

4. Butterfly Red Hill

Butterfly Red Hill: Where Rustic Charm Meets Bespoke Elegance

Nestled amidst the rolling hills of Red Hill, Butterfly Red Hill isn't just a wedding venue, it's an experience. This 4-acre haven, lovingly restored by Claire and Andrew Russo in 2015, offers a unique blend of rustic charm and customizable elegance, making it a dream location for couples seeking a wedding that reflects their one-of-a-kind love story.

A Rich History, a Renewed Canvas:

Butterfly Red Hill boasts a rich history, with the farmhouse and gardens serving as a cherished landmark in the Red Hill community for years. The Russo's restoration breathes new life into the space, ensuring stunning backdrops for your wedding photography and videography.

Embrace Bespoke Elegance:

Forget cookie-cutter weddings. Butterfly Red Hill allows you to curate your celebration entirely. Whether you crave a classic and intimate ceremony under the trees, a whimsical bohemian celebration amidst the olive groves, or a luxurious soiree complete with twinkling lights and vintage touches, their diverse packages cater to every vision.

Rustic Charm with Endless Options:

Weaving rustic elegance is their specialty. Imagine weathered wood accents, corrugated iron details, and lush greenery setting the stage for your vows. The venue's bohemian vibe shines through, making it perfect for free-spirited couples. But don't be fooled, luxury isn't out of the question. Upgrade your package and gain access to unique rentals like their butterfly caravan bar, plush vintage boho chairs, giant light-up love letters, or even a 1968 Barracuda for those unforgettable wedding photos.

Indoor & Outdoor Versatility:

The magic of Butterfly Red Hill lies in its expansive outdoor spaces, perfect for soaking in the beauty of the Mornington Peninsula. But worry not, even Mother Nature can't dampen your special day. With three elegant indoor gallery spaces, they have a seamless backup plan to ensure a flawless ceremony and reception.

Unwind and Celebrate:

Your wedding package likely includes on-site accommodation in the charming farmhouse, offering a restful retreat for you and your partner. It gets even better! Depending on the package, you can invite up to 8 additional guests to join you on-site, creating a truly intimate experience. Some packages even include the use of their on-site caravan for an extra dose of quirky charm. To accommodate larger guest lists, the Butterfly Red Hill team is happy to recommend nearby lodging options.

A Place to Breathe and Celebrate:

From the moment you arrive, Butterfly Red Hill envelopes you in a sense of tranquility. The sprawling estate offers the freedom to savor every moment, take photos in stunning locations, and celebrate your love story in a way that feels uniquely yours. Whether you choose a blank canvas approach or seek their guidance in assembling a dream team of wedding vendors, the Butterfly Red Hill team empowers you to curate a celebration that reflects your unique love story. From selecting your own catering to exploring BYO drink options, you have the final say in creating a wedding that's as unforgettable as your love.

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5. Iluka Retreat

Fancy having your very own private oasis? Set within 36 acres of the jaw-droppingly beautiful hinterland, Iluka Retreat wedding venue truly lives up to its name, and all of this is just an 80-minute drive from Melbourne.

Whether you’re looking to have a lakeside bohemian-style wedding, a full-scale rustic glamping occasion or you’re looking for an intimate location where you can feel the worries of everyday life disappear, Iluka Retreat weddings are worth considering.

One of the biggest upsides to Iluka is the addition of on-site accommodation. That means you, your family and your closest friends can party the night away and not worry about anyone getting back home or sorting out taxis. Tents, yurts and even lodges will be at your disposal to make this a day you’ll never forget!

6. The Briars

Beautiful views over the rolling hills of Mornington Peninsula, corrugated iron walls, stripped-back natural wood and a fully customisable warehouse. Does it get more rustic than that? At The Briars, one of the most amazing rustic wedding venues on the Mornington Peninsula, you’ll get the chance to walk countless rugged trails, and the opportunity to explore pristine formal gardens. Both are fantastic ideas when it’s golden hour!

Ranked as one of our favourite garden wedding venues, this stunning historic homestead is the perfect place to hold big weddings of up to 200 guests in their marquee. It must be stressed that while they have the capacity for a lot of people, the intimacy of the venue still shines. If you’re looking for a place to be surrounded by the best nature Mornington Peninsula has to offer when you say your vows, this wedding venue needs to be a top consideration.

Mornington Peninsula is filled with cosy and intimate wedding venues that are just waiting for your rustic wedding to happen. Those were 6 of the best, but if you’re looking to take your day to the next level, consider hiring some of the vendors we’ve listed that complement rustic weddings better than anything else. Still looking for a photographer or even just a helping hand to plan your big day? Get in touch now and let’s get the ball rolling!