What are alternative options to getting married at a venue?

I recently had a couple really set on getting married this April however finding it tough to locate an available venue that was within their budget and one that they loved 'at first sight' :)

This couple had been keen to understand the alternatives that would help them tie the knot on their dream date, so I thought I’d share the below in case you’re considering alternatives to getting married at a venue due to availability.

✔️ Public locations such as beach or parkland are a great option and often event planners can help package inclusions such as celebrant/styling/photography services (I can help with this).
Although public, it doesn’t mean that there will be tons of onlookers. There are plenty of secluded gems that your awesome celebrant will know of. Local council permits are often required, and some will have a fee attached (circa $100-$200) or be free for a window of time.

✔️ Private properties are a great opportunity to suit a combination of elopements and larger ceremonies. Just be mindful that if booking via platforms such as AirBnB, current terms will often mean that you can’t host an ‘event’.

✔️ Keep a look out for notifications on great wedding chat groups like to see if couples are looking to transfer their deposit at their current venue. There can be some lucky finds and it just might happen to be your dream venue and date.

✔️ You could legally get married with your celebrant on your wedding day (at their home or your chosen location, just the 2 of you with 2 witnesses). This is a great option if you’re open to celebrating with your family and friends with a commitment style ceremony, or reception at a later date.

Hope this is helpful to some couples, please let me know if you’d like to chat all things weddings with me.